Reference-Surface Transmittance Measurement for Ophthalmic Articles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing photochromic ophthalmic lenses fail to accurately determine optical characteristics under real-world conditions, leading to discrepancies between laboratory and actual wear environments, and there is a need for a method to measure transmittance of electromagnetic radiation through transparent ophthalmic articles quickly and portably.
Innovation Solution
A method involving measuring electromagnetic radiation intensities reflected by and transmitted through a transparent ophthalmic article positioned over a reference surface, using imaging devices to calculate transmittance based on these measurements, with the article either activated or non-activated, and optionally converting to CIE color coordinates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical bench methods are used to measure photochromic lenses under laboratory conditions, then measurement precision is improved, but the results do not accurately reflect real-world conditions when the lens is actually worn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses imaging devices to capture images of the lens both with and without activation, creating visual representations that can be analyzed to determine optical characteristics. This copying approach allows measurement under conditions that more closely simulate real-world usage while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent measures optical characteristics by changing the activation state of the photochromic lens (from activated to non-activated) and comparing the visual appearance or image data between states. This parameter change approach enables determination of optical properties under different conditions that reflect real-world variability.
2Measurement precision
If photochromic lenses are activated and measured on an optical bench, then optical characteristics can be determined, but the activation level may differ from when the lens is worn under ambient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent takes a first image of the lens in its activated state before transferring it to the optical bench for measurement. This preliminary action captures the activation level under ambient conditions, preserving information that would otherwise be lost during the transfer and measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent compares the visual appearance or image data of the lens in activated and non-activated states to determine optical characteristics. This feedback approach uses the visual information itself to quantify the optical properties, maintaining the relationship between activation level and optical performance.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measurements are taken to identify defects and determine optical characteristics, then measurement precision is improved, but the time required for measurement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent takes images of the lens in both activated and non-activated states, using this periodic imaging approach to identify defects and determine optical characteristics. By capturing images at these two distinct states, the method efficiently obtains sufficient data for comprehensive analysis without requiring continuous or excessive measurements.
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
Enables accurate determination of optical characteristics under real-world conditions, allowing for quick identification of defects and providing quantifiable data for quality control and marketing, while maintaining portability and flexibility in measurement.
Implementation Method 1
Photochromic lenses change tint in response to certain wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
The photochromic lens is activated, typically by exposure to ultraviolet radiation
Implementation Method 3
measuring a first intensity of electromagnetic radiation reflected by at least a portion of a reference surface... measuring a second intensity of electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the transparent ophthalmic article
Implementation Method 4
measuring a first intensity of electromagnetic radiation reflected by at least a portion of a reference surface
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
A method of determining the transmittance of a transparent article (250) includes the steps of obtaining a measurement of a first intensity of electromagnetic radiation reflected or emitted by reference surface (80) with an intensity measuring device (400), positioning the transparent article (250) over the reference surface (80), obtaining a measurement of a second intensity of electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the transparent article (250) that is reflected or emitted by a region (110) of the reference surface (80) that is covered by the transparent article (250) with the intensity measuring device (400); and calculating the transmittance using the measurements of the first intensity and the second intensity.