Reversible Fluorescent Dyeing of Soft Contact Lenses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for coloring contact lenses are complex and result in permanent changes, lacking a simple, reversible solution for achieving temporary and removable color effects.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a dye application process using a strip impregnated with sodium fluorescein or other dyes in a saline solution, where the contact lens absorbs the dye without heat, allowing for reversible coloration that fades over time or can be removed by soaking, along with a kit containing components for this process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If permanent dyes are used to color contact lenses, then the color effect is durable and visible, but the lens cannot be reused and the coloring process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the dyeing process reversible through temperature control. The dye binds to the lens at low temperatures and releases at high temperatures, allowing the lens to transition between colored and uncolored states. This dynamic approach replaces permanent dyeing with a controllable, reversible process that simplifies the overall system while maintaining color durability during the wearing period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying temperature to control dye binding and release. At low temperatures (below 50°C), the dye binds to the hydrogel matrix providing durable color. At high temperatures (above 50°C), the dye releases, allowing lens reuse. This parameter-based control resolves the contradiction by making the coloring process adjustable and reversible rather than permanent and complex.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex manufacturing processes are used to apply pigments or films, then precise color control is achieved, but the process requires highly sensitive and technical machinery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical deposition systems with a simple chemical absorption process. Instead of using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition or ion-assisted deposition machinery to apply precise layers of pigment, the invention uses a hydrogel lens that naturally absorbs dye molecules through diffusion. This substitution of mechanical precision with chemical affinity achieves color control without requiring highly sensitive and technical machinery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by allowing the hydrogel lens to automatically absorb and distribute the dye uniformly through its hydrophilic matrix without external intervention. The lens material itself performs the coloring function through passive diffusion, eliminating the need for complex deposition equipment while maintaining precise and uniform color application across the lens surface.
3Shape
If opaque pigments are used to create dramatic color changes, then realistic appearance is achieved, but the pigment may affect lens morphology and mechanical properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the porous, hydrophilic structure of the hydrogel lens material to accommodate dye molecules within the matrix. This porous structure allows the dye to be distributed throughout the lens without concentrating in specific areas, thereby maintaining the lens's mechanical integrity while achieving dramatic color changes. The hydrogel's water-containing network provides space for dye incorporation without compromising lens strength or morphology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite system by combining the hydrogel lens matrix with soluble dye molecules. This composite approach allows the dye to be integrated within the lens material at a molecular level, achieving realistic iris appearance while the hydrogel matrix maintains the overall mechanical properties. The reversible binding ensures that the dye does not permanently alter the lens structure, preserving its mechanical strength.
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 soft contact lenses to fluoresce under UV light, creating a dramatic effect without permanently altering the lens, with the color effect being reversible and safe for eye use, maintaining the lens's mechanical properties.
Implementation Method 1
the contact lens absorbs the dye without heat
Implementation Method 2
Enables soft contact lenses to fluoresce under UV light
Data Source
AI summary
A composition, method and kit for producing reversibly dyed soft contact lenses is disclosed. The contact lenses are submerged in saline solution and a dye is added to the saline solution, either directly or by means of a strip that has been impregnated with the dye. After a period of time, the lens absorbs the dye and can be removed from the solution and placed on the eye. Once the lens is illuminated with ultraviolet light, it will glow or fluoresce. An eye having the soft contact lens applied to a cornea thereof is examined under a luminescent radiation stored in the soft contact lens. The dyeing method does not utilize heat and thus is reversible. Soaking the lens in additional saline solution for a period of time will cause the dye to return to its non-dyed state. A stabilizing compound and a method of stabilization are also disclosed herein.