Transition Metal Complexes for Selective Visible Light Absorption

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current ophthalmic devices fail to effectively absorb high energy visible light, which can cause eye strain and disrupt circadian rhythms, while complete absorption of this light range may negatively impact vision, and there is a need for materials that provide targeted absorption of specific light wavelengths to protect the eyes and enhance visual comfort.

Innovation Solution

Development of compounds with visible light absorbing chromophores that absorb light within the 500 to 625 nm range, specifically designed for use in ophthalmic devices to improve vision quality and provide targeted protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If compounds absorb high energy visible light (500-625 nm) to protect eyes from strain and circadian disruption, then protection effectiveness is improved, but vision quality may be negatively affected due to blocking beneficial visible wavelengths

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against HEV lightVSAvoidvision quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by designing compounds with specific chromophore structures (Formula I) that selectively absorb only in the 500-625 nm visible range while remaining transparent to other wavelengths. This targeted absorption approach allows the material to provide protection against HEV light without blocking beneficial visible light, thus maintaining vision quality while achieving protection effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Object-affected harmful factors

If compounds absorb UV radiation (280-380 nm) to protect cornea, then corneal protection is improved, but the criteria do not adequately address HEV light protection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorneal protectionVSAvoidspectral coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by developing compounds that simultaneously address multiple spectral ranges. The chromophores of Formula I are designed to absorb in the visible range (500-625 nm), complementing existing UV absorption capabilities. This multi-functional approach allows a single compound to contribute to both UV and HEV light protection, enhancing the overall versatility of ophthalmic devices.

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

3Ease of operation

If green-yellow light (550-600 nm) is blocked to enhance contrast and reduce glare, then visual comfort is improved, but too much absorption may reduce overall light transmission

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual comfortVSAvoidlight transmission
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by designing compounds that selectively absorb specific portions of the green-yellow spectrum (550-625 nm) rather than blocking all light in this range. The chromophore structures are tuned to provide targeted absorption that enhances contrast and reduces glare while maintaining sufficient overall light transmission for clear vision. This balanced approach optimizes visual comfort without excessively reducing light transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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

These compounds enhance vision quality by absorbing specific wavelengths of visible light, reducing eye strain and glare, and promoting visual comfort without negatively affecting vision, while also offering protection against harmful radiation.

Implementation Method 1

compounds that absorb within the visible light portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, for example in the region of 500 to 625 nm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS12054499B2Transition metal complexes as visible light absorbers
Publication Date: 2024.08.06 JOHNSON & JOHNSON VISION CARE INC
  • US12054499B2 patent drawing
  • US12054499B2 patent drawing
  • US12054499B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described are visible light absorbing compounds. The compounds absorb various visible light wavelengths, such as in the region of 500 to 625 nm, and are suitable for incorporation in various products, such as biomedical devices and ophthalmic devices.