Segmented Ring Layer Insert for Active Ophthalmic Lenses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic devices, such as contact lenses, face challenges in incorporating active components due to size and power requirements, making it difficult to integrate energized components that provide functional capabilities like vision correction, cosmetic enhancement, and therapeutic effects without entering an energized state.
Innovation Solution
A functionalized layer insert is developed, comprising multiple stacked layers that can be energized and integrated into ophthalmic devices, including semiconductor devices and power regulation layers, allowing for the creation of active components like variable optic lens elements and microcircuitry within a biocompatible framework, using substrate inserts and reactive monomer mixing with actinic radiation to form lenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete semiconductor devices are embedded in a contact lens, then active functionality can be provided, but the size and power requirements are not conducive for inclusion in a device to be worn on a human eye
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the functional components into multiple thin transparent layers stacked together, with each layer performing a specific function (power regulation, semiconductor device operation, variable optic control). This segmentation allows the total volume to be distributed across multiple thin layers rather than requiring a single large discrete device, making the overall structure compatible with contact lens dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from three-dimensional discrete devices to a two-dimensional layered structure. By stacking multiple thin transparent layers, the patent accommodates multiple functional components within the constrained volume of a contact lens while maintaining the necessary power and control functions through vertical layering rather than horizontal expansion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functional layers are stacked to provide various functionalities, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a power regulation layer that can serve multiple functions: regulating power to semiconductor devices, regulating power to variable optic elements, and potentially serving as a substrate for other components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The layered structure allows smaller functional elements to be nested within or between larger structural layers. For example, semiconductor devices and variable optic elements are embedded within or between the transparent layers, creating a nested arrangement where multiple functions are integrated within a unified layered architecture, simplifying the overall device structure.
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 the creation of ophthalmic devices with active components that can be energized and controlled, enhancing functionality while maintaining biocompatibility and efficiency in lens design, accommodating various functionalities within the constraints of human eye wear.
Implementation Method 1
The reactive monomer mix is exposed to actinic radiation to form an ophthalmic lens
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method of forming an insert for contact lens. The insert having rings and ring segments that make up functionalized layers in a functional layer insert, for incorporation into an ophthalmic lens. The layer insert which can include substrate layers that are intact full rings, segmented rings or a combination of both. The method includes the steps of forming the ring segments, assembling the ring segments into ring substrate layers, forming electrical interconnections and encapsulating the insert in a contact lens.