Photochromic Lens Selection via Environmental Prediction Model

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining the performance characteristics of photochromic optical articles, such as lenses, are inadequate for accurately assessing their behavior in outdoor environments, leading to a need for a more effective system and method to select suitable lenses for individual wearers based on environmental and personal factors.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that involves full characterization of photochromic optical articles by determining environmental conditions, positioning the articles on a support structure, measuring incident irradiance and surface temperature, and generating a prediction model to assess photopic transmission, considering climate data, glare sensitivity, and individual habits to recommend suitable lenses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If bench tests are used to determine performance characteristics of photochromic lenses, then measurement can be performed in controlled environment, but the results only provide partial answer regarding actual behavior in outdoor environment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidoutdoor performance prediction
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces computational models and simulation algorithms as intermediaries between controlled bench test data and actual outdoor performance. These models act as mediators that translate laboratory measurements into predictive outdoor characteristics by incorporating environmental variables, wearer habits, and physiological factors that cannot be directly measured in controlled settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates virtual copies of outdoor testing conditions through computational simulations. Instead of physically testing lenses in diverse outdoor environments, the system replicates various outdoor scenarios (different climates, times of day, weather conditions) through digital models that process bench test data to predict real-world performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If individual wearer needs and environmental factors are considered for lens selection, then suitable photochromic lens can be selected for individual wearer, but the selection process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepersonalized lens selectionVSAvoidselection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a multi-functional selection system that simultaneously evaluates multiple wearer needs (glare sensitivity, temperature sensitivity, lifestyle habits) and environmental factors (climate, geography, time of day) through a single integrated computational platform. This universal system handles diverse input parameters and generates comprehensive lens recommendations without requiring separate analysis processes for each factor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms complex qualitative wearer preferences and environmental conditions into quantifiable parameters that can be processed computationally. By converting subjective factors (glare sensitivity, comfort preferences) into measurable variables and assigning numerical weights to different environmental conditions, the system simplifies the decision-making process while maintaining personalized accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for the accurate selection of photochromic lenses that meet the specific needs of wearers by predicting photopic transmission based on outdoor temperature and irradiance, ensuring optimal performance and comfort in various environmental conditions.

Implementation Method 1

System and method for selection of photochromic optical articles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotochromism: Photochromism

Data Source

PatentEP3563135B1System and method for selection of photochromic optical articles
Publication Date: 2024.07.31 TRANSITIONS OPTICAL INC
  • EP3563135B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3563135B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3563135B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method of determining outdoor characteristics of a photochromic optical article includes: determining environmental conditions for an area; positioning the optical article to face a first direction; determining a first incident irradiance on the optical article; determining a first surface temperature and first spectrum of the optical article; rotating the optical article to face a second direction; determining a second surface temperature and second spectrum of the optical article; determining a second incident irradiance on the optical article; and generating a prediction model of spectral transmission of the optical article. Further using environmental and climate conditions and to select a photochromic article most appropriate for an area.