Variable Optic Ophthalmic Lenses Using Liquid Crystal Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ophthalmic lenses have static optical qualities, limiting contact lens or intraocular lens wearers from easily changing their vision correction without significant effort, unlike spectacle wearers, who can change glasses.
Innovation Solution
Development of a method to fabricate ophthalmic lenses with variable optic inserts using liquid crystal elements that can be energized, allowing for dynamic changes in optical quality by controlling the alignment and orientation of liquid crystal molecules with electric fields, enabling adjustable refractive and polarizing properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional static lens fabrication methods are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but optical adaptability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by incorporating liquid crystal elements that can dynamically change their optical properties in response to applied voltages. The liquid crystal molecules reorient themselves under electric fields, enabling the lens to transition between different focal powers and optical states, thus achieving optical adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple lens structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the orientation and alignment of liquid crystal molecules through applied electric fields. By changing the voltage parameters applied to the liquid crystal elements, the refractive index and focal length of the lens can be dynamically adjusted, providing multiple optical correction options from a single lens device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If liquid crystal elements are incorporated into the lens, then optical versatility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-aligning the liquid crystal molecules during the manufacturing process using alignment layers and controlled curing procedures. The alignment layers are prepared in advance with specific molecular orientations, and the liquid crystal elements are positioned and cured in predetermined configurations, ensuring that the optical axes and focal points are correctly established before the lens is put into service.
3Ease of operation
If variable optic capability is added to the lens, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment systems with an electro-optical system. Instead of requiring physical manipulation of lens components or multiple interchangeable lenses, the invention uses electric fields to control liquid crystal orientation, enabling users to switch between different optical correction modes through simple electrical signals, thus greatly improving ease of operation.
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 wearers to dynamically adjust the optical characteristics of the lens, providing multiple focal powers and polarization states, enhancing sight accommodation and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The reactive monomer mixture is then exposed to actinic radiation to form an ophthalmic lens
Implementation Method 2
controlling the alignment and orientation of liquid crystal molecules with electric fields, enabling adjustable refractive and polarizing properties
Implementation Method 3
forming an intermediate optic piece, where the intermediate optic piece includes a UV absorbing dye
Data Source
AI summary
This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing an ophthalmic lens of variable optical power. The variable optic insert may have surfaces within that have differing radii of curvature. The variable optic insert may also comprise polarizing elements. In some examples, an intermediate optic piece may be formed to comprise a UV absorbing dye, allowing differential processing of regions on either side of the intermediate optic piece. 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.