Variable Focus Ophthalmic Lens via Actinic Radiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contact lens and intraocular lens wearers cannot easily change their optical correction without significant effort, as existing ophthalmic lenses have static optical qualities that cannot be altered post-fabrication.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses with a variable optic portion using an energy source and a reactive monomer mixture, where the monomer mixture is exposed to actinic radiation within a mold cavity containing a media insert, allowing for controlled formation of lenses with adjustable optical characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional casting or lathing methods are used to form ophthalmic lenses, then the manufacturing process is simple and straightforward, but the optical characteristics of the lens remain static and cannot be changed after fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating a photoinitiator and reactive monomer mixture into the lens material during fabrication, preparing the lens in advance to enable subsequent optical changes. The lens is pre-equipped with all necessary components (photoinitiator, monomers, mold parts) to allow focal power adjustment later through actinic radiation exposure, eliminating the need for complex post-fabrication modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by utilizing actinic radiation to initiate polymerization reactions that alter the optical parameters of the lens. The focal power of the lens can be changed by exposing the lens to actinic radiation, which triggers chemical reactions that modify the refractive index or physical structure of the lens material, thereby changing its optical characteristics without replacing the entire lens.
2Ease of operation
If contact lens wearers want to change their optical correction, then they can switch to different lenses, but this requires significant effort and cannot be done easily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static optical properties of traditional contact lenses into dynamic, adjustable properties. The lens incorporates a reactive monomer mixture and photoinitiator that allow the optical characteristics to be changed on-demand through exposure to actinic radiation. This enables contact lens wearers to adjust their focal power dynamically without removing or replacing the lens, making optical correction changes as easy as exposing the lens to light.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a variable focus mechanism is added to enable optical adjustment, then the lens provides adjustable focal power, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the variable focus mechanism directly into the lens material itself by incorporating photoinitiators and reactive monomer mixtures within the lens matrix. This integration eliminates the need for separate mechanical adjustment components, electrodes, or complex assemblies. The variable focus functionality is combined with the lens material at the molecular level, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while enabling adjustable focal power through photo-initiated polymerization reactions.
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 lenses with adjustable optical power, allowing users to change their vision correction without replacing the lens, providing greater flexibility and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The first mold part is positioned proximate to the second mold part thereby forming a lens cavity with the energized media insert and at least some of the reactive monomer mix in the lens cavity; the reactive monomer mix is exposed to actinic radiation to form an ophthalmic lens.
Data Source
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AI summary
This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing a variable optic insert (111) into an ophthalmic lens. An energy source (109) is capable of powering the variable optic insert included within the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens is cast molded from a silicone hydrogel.