Variable Optic Insert with Liquid Crystal Elements for Dynamic Refractive Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ophthalmic lenses, such as contact and intraocular lenses, have static optical qualities that cannot be easily changed by the wearer, limiting their ability to accommodate varying focal powers, unlike spectacles which can be adjusted for different optical corrections.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a Variable Optic Insert with Liquid Crystal elements that can be energized to alter the optical quality of the lens, allowing for dynamic changes in refractive power and polarization by controlling the alignment and orientation of Liquid Crystal molecules with electrodes and dielectric layers, enabling wearer-controlled or automated adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical quality is designed into the physical characteristic of the lens during fabrication, then the lens provides stable and reliable vision correction, but the optical characteristics cannot be changed without significant effort or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by incorporating a variable optic insert containing liquid crystal elements that can dynamically change their optical properties in response to applied voltage. This allows the lens to transition from a static optical system to a dynamic one, enabling real-time adjustment of focal power and other optical characteristics without requiring physical replacement of the lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by utilizing liquid crystal materials whose refractive index and optical alignment can be changed by applying electrical voltage. The variable optic insert contains liquid crystal elements that can alter their molecular orientation and optical properties based on applied electrical fields, thereby changing the overall optical characteristics of the lens system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a variable optic insert with liquid crystal elements is incorporated into the lens, then the lens can dynamically change optical characteristics, but the lens structure and manufacturing process become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lens into distinct functional components: a standard lens body and a separate variable optic insert. This modular approach allows the variable optic functionality to be manufactured and tested independently, then integrated into the final lens product, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials by combining liquid crystal materials with optical alignment layers and electrode structures to create the variable optic insert. This composite structure integrates multiple functional materials that work together to achieve voltage-controlled optical modulation, enabling dynamic optical adjustment within a compact insert design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If liquid crystal elements are used to enable dynamic optical changes, then multiple focal powers become available, but energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the variable optic insert to maintain its optical state without continuous energy input. The liquid crystal elements retain their molecular alignment and optical properties after voltage is applied, allowing the lens to hold its optical configuration without ongoing power consumption, similar to how conventional lenses maintain their optical properties passively.
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 ophthalmic lenses to dynamically change their optical characteristics, providing multiple focal powers and accommodating varying vision needs without the need for significant effort or replacement, enhancing the flexibility and functionality of ophthalmic devices.
Implementation Method 1
Variable Optic Insert with Liquid Crystal elements that can be energized to alter the optical quality of the lens
Implementation Method 2
controlling the alignment and orientation of Liquid Crystal molecules with electrodes and dielectric layers
Implementation Method 3
The Reactive Monomer Mixture is exposed to actinic radiation to form an Ophthalmic Lens
Data Source
AI summary
This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing a Variable Optic Insert into an Ophthalmic Lens. An energy source 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. The various Ophthalmic Lens entities may include electroactive Liquid Crystal layers to electrically control refractive characteristics. The Ophthalmic device may include a wear-controlled adjustment device.