JP2005519684A - Electro-optic lens with integrated components - Google Patents

Abstract

A rangefinder device (2170) and (2160) for use with a controller (2140) in an optical device (2100) is disclosed. The rangefinder apparatus includes a transmitter (2160) configured to produce a first beam of invisible light for intersecting a sensed object, and a second beam of invisible light reflected from the sensed object. And a receiver (2170) configured to detect a sensing object such that the controller (2140) determines a viewing distance of the sensing object based on signals received from the transmitter (2160) and the receiver (2170). It is configured. A method of controlling an optical lens that determines the viewing distance of an object sensed through an electroactive lens (2120) using a range finder is disclosed. An optical lens system (2100) is disclosed. The device is configured to adjust the focal length of the electroactive lens (2120) and at least a portion of the electroactive lens (2120) connected to the lens and based on a signal from the rangefinder device. And a controller (2140).

Description

  The present invention relates to the field of optical devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method using an electroactive lens having at least some integrated components, including a rangefinder apparatus.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, an optical lens system is disclosed. The optical lens system includes an electroactive lens and a controller connected to the electroactive lens and configured to adjust a focal length of at least a portion of the electroactive lens based on a signal from the range finder. It has.

  In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a rangefinder device for use with a controller in an optical device is disclosed. The rangefinder apparatus detects a transmitter configured to produce a first beam of invisible light for intersecting a sensed object and a second beam of invisible light reflected from the sensed object. And the receiver is configured to determine the viewing distance of the sensing object based on signals received from the transmitter and the receiver.

  According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method for controlling an optical lens system is disclosed. The method includes determining a viewing distance of an object sensed through an electroactive lens using a range finder device, and adjusting a focal length of a first portion of the electroactive lens based on the viewing distance. Contains.

  In 1998, there were nearly 92 million eye tests performed in the United States alone. Most of these tests included ophthalmic thorough examinations, internal and surgical analysis of muscle balance, cornea, often binocular measurements of the pupil, and refractive tests that are objective and subjective.

  A refraction test is performed to determine / diagnose the magnitude and type of refraction error in the human eye. Currently, the types of refractive errors that can be diagnosed and measured are myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. Current refractors (phoropters) are intended to correct a person's visual acuity to 20/20 distance and close, and in some cases 20/15 distance visual acuity can be achieved, This is an exception too.

  It should be pointed out that the theoretical limit that the retina of the human eye determines by processing vision is approximately 20/10. This is currently far better than the level of visual acuity obtained with both today's refractors and conventional spectacle lenses. What is missing from these conventional devices is the ability to detect, quantify and correct for non-conventional refractive errors such as aberrations, irregular astigmatism or ocular layer irregularities. Aberrations, irregular astigmatism and / or ocular layer irregularities are the result of the human visual system, or the result of aberrations caused by conventional glasses, or a combination of both.

  Therefore, it would be extremely beneficial to have a solution that detects, quantifies, and corrects as close to 20/10 or better as possible.

  Furthermore, it is beneficial to do this in a very efficient and user-friendly manner.

  The present invention utilizes a novel solution in detecting, quantifying and correcting human vision. This solution includes several innovative embodiments that utilize electroactive lenses. Furthermore, the present invention utilizes a novel solution for the selection, distribution, activation and programming of electroactive eyewear.

  For example, in one embodiment of the invention, a novel electroactive phoropter / refractor is utilized. This electroactive phoropter / refractor utilizes much less lenses than today's phoropters and is part of the overall size and / or weight of today's phoropters. Indeed, this exemplary embodiment of the invention consists of only a pair of electroactive lenses housed in a frame cradle, which frame cradle depends on its own structural design and / or of conductive wires. The network supplies the power required to allow the electroactive lens to function properly.

  In order to assist in understanding certain embodiments of the present invention, explanations of various terms are provided below. In certain circumstances, these descriptions are not necessarily intended to be limiting, but should be read in light of the examples, description, and claims presented herein.

  An “electroactive zone” can include or be included in an electroactive structure, layer and / or region. An “electroactive region” can be a portion and / or the entire electroactive layer. The electroactive region can be adjacent to other electroactive regions. The electroactive regions can be attached directly to other electroactive regions or indirectly, for example, with an insulator between each electroactive region. An “electroactive refractive matrix” is both an electroactive band and a region and can be attached directly to other electroactive layers or indirectly, eg, with an insulator between each electroactive layer. “Attachment” can include joining, attaching, bonding and other well-known attachment methods. A “controller” can include or be included in a processor, microprocessor, integrated circuit, IC, computer chip, and / or chip. A “refractor” can include a controller. An “automatic refractor” can include a wavefront analyzer. "Near-range refraction error" can include hyperopia and any other refraction error that needs to be corrected for a person to see clearly at close range. “Intermediate distance refraction error” includes hyperopia that needs to be corrected to an intermediate distance, and any other refraction errors that need to be corrected for a person to see clearly at an intermediate distance be able to. A “far-distance refraction error” can include any refraction error that needs to be corrected for a person to see clearly at a distance. “Short distance” can be from about 6 inches to about 24 inches, preferably from about 14 inches to about 18 inches. it can. The "intermediate distance" can be from about 60.96 cm (24 inches) to about 152.40 cm (5 feet). “Far distance” can be any distance between about 5 feet and infinity, more preferably infinity. “Conventional refractive error” can include myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and / or presbyopia. “Non-conventional refraction errors” can include irregular astigmatism, ocular system aberrations, and any other refraction error not included in conventional refraction errors. “Photorefractive error” can include any aberration associated with a lens optic.

  In some embodiments, the “glasses” can include one lens. In other embodiments, “glasses” may include more than one lens. A “multifocal” lens can include a bifocal, a trifocal, a tetrafocal and / or a progressive addition lens. “Finishing” lens material can include lens material having a finishing optical surface on both sides. A “semi-finished” lens material can include a lens material that has a finished optical surface only on one side and an optical non-finished surface on the other side. Requires further modifications, such as grinding and / or polishing finishes. “Surface finish” can include grinding / and polishing off excess material to finish a non-finished surface of a semi-finished lens material.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive phoropter / refractor device 100. Frame 110 houses electroactive lenses 120 that are connected to electroactive lens controller 140 and power supply 150 via a network of conductive wires 130.

  In some embodiments, the frame 110 vine (not shown in FIG. 1) houses a battery or power source, such as, for example, a micro fuel cell. In another embodiment of the invention, the frame 110 vine has the necessary electrical components so that the power cord plugs directly into the electrical outlet and / or the electroactive refractor controller / programmer 160. .

  In yet another embodiment of the invention, the electroactive lenses 120 are refracted and suspended to allow a person to easily position their face for viewing through these electroactive lenses 120. Provided in the housing assembly.

  While the first invention embodiment utilizes only a pair of electroactive lenses, in some other invention embodiments, multiple electroactive lenses are used. In yet another embodiment of the invention, a combination of a conventional lens and an electroactive lens is utilized.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an electroactive refractor device 200 that includes at least one electroactive lens 220 and several conventional lenses, in particular. A housing assembly 210 that houses the diffractive lens 230, the prism lens 240, the astigmatism lens 250 and the spherical lens 260. A network of conductive wires 270 connects the electroactive lens 220 to a power source 275 and a controller 280 showing a prescription display 290.

  In each embodiment of the invention in which multiple electroactive lenses and / or combinations of conventional lenses and electroactive lenses are utilized, these lenses are ordered one at a time, random and / or non-random. Used to test human vision. In other embodiments of the invention, two or more lenses are added as needed to provide a total correction force in front of each eye.

  Electroactive lenses utilized for both electroactive phoropters and electroactive eyewear are configured in hybrid and / or non-hybrid configurations. In a hybrid configuration, a conventional lens optical element is combined with an electroactive band. In non-hybrid configurations, conventional lens optics are not used.

  As discussed above, the present invention differs from today's conventional distribution execution sequence 300 shown as a flow diagram in FIG. Traditionally, after an eye examination requiring a conventional refractor, a person's prescription is obtained and taken to the distributor as shown in steps 310 and 320. The frame and lens are then selected at the distributor, as shown in steps 330 and 340. As shown in steps 350, 360, these lenses are processed, trimmed, and incorporated into a frame. Finally, at step 370, new prescription glasses are distributed and received.

  As shown in the flow diagram of FIG. 4, in an exemplary embodiment of the distribution method 400 of the present invention, in step 410, electroactive eyewear is selected by or for the wearer. In step 420, the frame is fitted to the wearer. With the wearer wearing electroactive eyewear, at step 430, the electronics are controlled by the electroactive phoropter / refractor controller. This electroactive phoropter / refractor controller is most often operated by an eye care professional and / or technician. However, in certain embodiments of the invention, the patient or wearer actually operates the control device, thus adjusting his own electroactive lens prescription. In other inventive embodiments, both the patient / wearer and the eye care professional and / or technician work with the controller.

  In step 440, the controller is used to objectively or subjectively select the best correction prescription for the patient / wearer, whether operated by an eye care professional, technician and / or patient / wearer. Is done. Once an appropriate prescription is selected to correct the patient / wearer's vision to its optimal correction value, the eye care professional and / or technician programs the patient / wearer's electroactive eyewear.

  In certain embodiments of the invention, the selected prescription may include the electroactive eyewear controller and / or one or more prior to the selected electroactive eyewear being removed from the electroactive phoropter / refractor controller. The above controller components are programmed. In other inventive embodiments, the prescription is programmed into the electroactive eyewear selected at a later time.

  In either case, electroactive eyewear is selected, fitted, programmed, and distributed in step 450 today in a completely different order than conventional eyeglasses. This order allows for improved manufacturing, refraction and distribution efficiency.

  This method of the invention allows the patient / wearer to actually select and wear their eyewear and then program to the correct prescription while testing their vision. In most, if not all, cases this is done before the patient / wearer sits on the examination chair, thus ensuring the overall processing and programming accuracy of the patient's final prescription and the accuracy of the eye refraction itself. To do. Finally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the patient can actually wear their electroactive glasses when getting up from the examination chair and leaving the eye care professional's office.

  It should be pointed out that according to other embodiments of the invention, the electroactive phoropter / refractor can easily display or print the patient's or wearer's best correction prescription. This prescription can then be filed in much the same way as in the past. Currently, this method requires taking a prescription written in a distribution office where electroactive eyewear (frame and lens) is sold and distributed.

  In yet another embodiment of the invention, the prescription is sent to a distribution office where electroactive eyewear (frames and lenses) is sold, for example, via the Internet.

  If the prescription is not filed where eye refraction occurs, in certain embodiments of the invention, an electroactive eyewear controller and / or one or more controller components are programmed and attached to the electroactive eyewear. Or programmed directly while attached to electroactive eyewear following refraction. If nothing is attached to the electroactive eyewear, the electroactive eyewear controller and / or one or more controller components are complex embedded parts of the electroactive eyewear and need not be attached later. .

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart of another embodiment of the distribution method 2700 of the present invention. In step 2710, the patient's vision is refracted using any method. In step 2720, a prescription for the patient is obtained. At step 2730, electroactive eyewear is selected. In step 2740, the electroactive eyewear is programmed for the wearer's prescription. At step 2750, electroactive eyewear is distributed.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another inventive embodiment of electroactive eyewear 500. In this illustrative example, frame 510 houses general electroactive lenses 520, 522 that are connected to electroactive eyewear controller 540 and a power source by connection wires 530. A dividing line ZZ divides a general electroactive lens 520.

  The controller 540 acts as the “electronic brain” of the electroactive eyewear 500, and includes at least one processor component, at least one memory component for storing instructions and / or data for a particular prescription, and a port. And at least one input / output component. Controller 540 reads from and writes to memory, calculates voltages to be applied to individual grid elements based on the desired refractive index, and / or patient / user eyewear and associated refractors / Computer tasks such as acting as a local interface to the phoropter facility can be performed.

  In certain inventive embodiments, the controller 540 is pre-programmed by an eye care professional or technician to meet patient convergence and adjustment needs. In this embodiment, this pre-programming is performed at controller 540 while controller 540 is outside the patient's eyewear, which is then inserted into the eyewear after the exam. In one embodiment of the invention, the controller 540 is a “read-only” type that supplies voltage to the grid elements to obtain the required array of refractive indices and correct vision for a particular distance. If the patient's prescription changes, a new controller 540 must be programmed by the specialist and inserted into the eyewear. The controller is of the ASIC, application specific integrated circuit type, with its memory and processing instructions permanently imprinted.

  In other embodiments of the invention, the electroactive eyewear controller may be originally programmed by an eye care professional or technician when initially distributed, and later when the patient's needs change, different corrections may be made. The same controller or its components can be reprogrammed to provide a value. This electroactive eyewear controller may be removed from the eyewear, installed in the refractor controller / programmer (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) and reprogrammed during inspection, or from the eyewear It may be reprogrammed in situ by the refractor without being removed. In this case, the electroactive eyewear controller can be, for example, an FPGA, i.e. of the kind of field programmable gate array structure. In an embodiment of the invention, the electroactive eyewear controller may be permanently incorporated into the eyewear, but requires an interface link to the refractor that issues reprogramming instructions to the FPGA. Part of this link has an external AC power source for the electroactive eyewear controller provided by the refractor / phoropter or an AC adapter embedded in its controller / programmer unit.

  In another embodiment of the invention, the electroactive eyewear acts as a refractor and the external equipment operated by an eye care professional or technician consists only of a digital and / or analog interface to the electroactive eyewear controller . Thus, the electroactive eyewear controller can also serve as a controller for the refractor / phoropter. In this embodiment, the required processing electronics change the array of grid voltages for the electroactive eyewear, and after the optimal correction value for the user has been empirically determined, It can be used to reprogram the eyewear controller. In this case, the patient reviews the eye chart through his or her own electroactive eyewear during the exam, but when the best correction prescription is selected, the controller in the electroactive eyewear is simultaneously electronically reviewed. Sometimes you are not aware that it is programmed.

  Other innovative embodiments are developed or modified to provide feedback that is adapted and programmed as a first step and / or for use with the electroactive lens of the present invention. Utilizing an electronic auto refractor that can be used in combination with an electroactive refractor (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) such as, but not limited to, an auto refractor and a Nikon auto refractor Yes. This innovative embodiment is used to measure the refractive error while the patient is wearing his or her electroactive glasses. This feedback is sent automatically or led to the controller and / or programmer, who then calibrates, programs, or reprograms the controller of the user / wearer's electroactive glasses. You can do it. This innovative embodiment allows the controller of a person's electroactive glasses to be recalibrated as needed without requiring a full eye examination or eye refraction.

  In some other inventive embodiments, the human vision correction value is corrected to 20/20 by the human electroactive lens. This is most often achieved by correcting a person's conventional refractive error (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and / or presbyopia). In certain other inventive embodiments, non-conventional refractive errors such as eye aberrations, irregular astigmatism and / or ocular layer irregularities and conventional refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and / or Presbyopia) is measured and corrected. In embodiments of the invention where eye aberrations, irregular astigmatism and / or ocular layer irregularities are corrected in addition to conventional refractive errors, human vision is often as 20/15 It can be corrected better than 20/20, better than 20/15 and / or better than 20/10.

  This advantageous error correction is achieved by effectively using the electroactive lens in eyewear as an applicable optical element. Applicable optical elements have been demonstrated in multi-year use to correct for atmospheric distortions in ground-based astronomical telescopes and laser transmission in the atmosphere for communications and military applications. In these cases, a segmented mirror or “rubber” mirror is usually used to make a slight correction to the image or laser wavefront. These mirrors are most often operated by mechanical actuators.

  Applicable optics are based on active exploration of the eyeball system with an eye-safe laser-like light beam when applied to visual acuity and measure the retinal reflex or the wavefront distortion of the image formed on the retina To do. This form of wavefront analysis estimates a planar or spherical probe wave and measures the strain imparted to this wavefront by the eyeball system. By comparing this wavefront with the distortion wavefront, a skilled inspector can determine which abnormality exists in the eyeball system and prescribe an appropriate correction prescription. Although there are several comparable designs of wavefront analyzers, the adaptation of the electroactive lens described here for use as a transmissible or reflective spatial light modulator to perform such wavefront analysis is: Included within the present invention. Examples of wavefront analyzers are shown in US Pat. Nos. 5,777,719 (Williams) and 5,949,521 (Williams), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  However, in one embodiment of the present invention, an image light wave is provided by a grid array of electrically driven pixels whose refractive index can be varied to change the light passing through these pixels. A slight correction or adjustment is made to the electroactive lens so that it accelerates or decelerates. In this way, the electroactive lens becomes an applicable optical element that can compensate for the inherent spatial defects in the lens of the eye itself in order to obtain an almost aberration free image on the retina.

  In an embodiment of the invention, the electroactive lens is completely two-dimensional and is caused by the visual system of the eye by incorporating a small refractive correction index in addition to the patient / user's total vision correction prescription needs. Certain spatial aberrations can be compensated. In this way, visual acuity can be corrected to a better level than can be achieved with general convergence / adjustment correction, and in many cases can result in better visual acuity than 20/20.

  In order to achieve this better than 20/20, the patient's ocular aberration is measured, for example, by a modified autorefractor using a wavefront sensor or analyzer specifically designed for eye aberration measurement. can do. Once ocular aberrations and other types of non-conventional refractive errors are defined in size and space, the eyewear controller incorporates a 2D spatially dependent refractive index change to provide overall myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and It can be programmed to compensate for these aberrations and other types of non-conventional refractive errors in addition to astigmatism correction. Thus, embodiments of the electroactive lens of the present invention can electroactively correct aberrations in the patient's visual system or aberrations caused by lens elements.

Thus, for example, a certain power correction of −3.50 diopters is required in certain electroactive converging lenses to correct the myopia of the wearer. In this case, a series of different voltages V ₁ ,... V _N are applied to the M elements in the grid array to provide a series of different refractive indices N _1. to generate the N _M. However, certain elements in the grid array, require a change to plus or minus 0.50 units of their refractive index N ₁ ··· N _M to compensate for ocular aberrations and / or non-conventional refractive error Sometimes. In addition to the basic myopia correction voltage, a small voltage deviation corresponding to these changes is applied to the appropriate grid elements.

  Unconventional refractive errors such as irregular astigmatism, eg tear layer in front of cornea, in front or back of cornea, aquatic irregularity in front or back of lens, eyeball like glass irregularity In order to detect, quantify, and / or correct as much as possible the refractive irregularities, or other aberrations caused by the eye refraction system itself, the embodiment of the prescription method 600 of the present invention of FIG. An electroactive refractor / phoropter is used.

  Step 610 utilizes a conventional refractor, an electroactive refractor having both a conventional lens and an electroactive lens, or an electroactive refractor having only an electroactive lens, or an automatic refractor to produce negative power (myopia). ), Plus power (for hyperopia), cylindrical power (for astigmatism) and, if required, measure the refractive error of a person using conventional lens power, such as prism power. This solution is used to obtain what is known today as the patient's BVA (best vision) by means of conventional corrected refractive errors. However, certain embodiments of the present invention take into account improving human vision beyond what is achieved with conventional refractors / phoropters today.

  Therefore, step 610 is a countermeasure against further improvement of the person's prescription by the non-conventional inventive method. In step 610, a prescription that achieves this goal is programmed into the electroactive refractor. The patient is suitably positioned to look through a electroactive lens having an electroactive structure into a modified, compatible auto refractor or wavefront analyzer that accurately and accurately measures refractive errors. This refraction error measurement detects and quantifies as many unconventional refraction errors as possible. This measurement automatically computes the prescription necessary to achieve the best focus on the fovea along the line of sight while the patient is looking through the targeted area of the electroactive lens, This is done through a small, approximately 4.29 mm targeted area of each electroactive lens. Once this measurement is made, this non-conventional correction is stored in the controller / programmer's memory for future use or programmed into the controller that controls the electroactive lens. This is of course repeated for both eyes.

  In step 620, the patient or wearer chooses to use the option of a control unit as an option to further refine the conventional prescription error correction, the non-conventional refraction error correction, or a combination of both, and thus to care about the final prescription. But you can. As a modification, or in addition, an eye care professional may improve in some cases until no further improvements are made. At this point, an improved BVA for the patient is achieved that is better than that available with the prior art.

  Then, in step 630, any further improved prescription is programmed into the controller that controls the prescription of the electroactive lens. In step 640, programmed electroactive eyeglasses are distributed.

  The preceding steps 610-640 present one method embodiment of the present invention, depending on the judgment or solution of the eye care professional, but only with the electroactive refractor / phoropter or with the wavefront analyzer. Different but similar solutions can be used to detect, quantify and / or correct a person's visual acuity in combination. With or without a wavefront analyzer, use any electroactive refractor / phoropter to detect, quantify and / or correct human vision in any order Any method is considered part of this invention. For example, in certain invention embodiments, steps 610-640 may be performed in a modified manner or in a different order. Further, in certain other inventive method embodiments, the targeted area of the lens described in step 610 is in the range of about 3.0 mm in diameter to about 8.0 mm in diameter. In yet another embodiment of the invention, this targeted area can be anywhere from about 2.0 mm in diameter to the area of the entire lens.

  Thus, although this discussion has concentrated heavily on refraction using various forms of electroactive lenses alone or in combination with wavefront analyzers for future eye examinations, the new emerging technologies are merely objective. There is another possibility to take into account the measurement and thus potentially eliminate the need for patient communication response or interaction. Many of the embodiments of the invention described and / or claimed herein can be any type of measuring device, whether objective, subjective, or a combination of both. It is intended for.

  Turning to the electroactive lens itself, as discussed above, embodiments of the invention relate to an electroactive refractor / phoropter having a novel electroactive lens that can be of a hybrid or non-hybrid configuration. . Hybrid configuration means a combination of a conventional single vision lens or multifocal lens element and front, back and / or at least one electroactive band positioned between the front and back This zone consists of an electroactive material with the electroactive means necessary to electrically change the focus. In certain embodiments of the invention, the electroactive zone is provided on the inside of the lens, particularly on the concave back of the lens, to protect the lens from scratches and other common wear. In embodiments where the electroactive zone is included as part of the convex front, scratch resistant paint is most often applied. The combination of a conventional single vision lens or a conventional multifocal lens and an electroactive band results in the full lens power of the hybrid lens design. By non-hybrid configuration is meant a lens that is electroactive so that almost 100% of the refractive power is generated only by the electroactive nature.

  FIG. 7 is a front view of an exemplary hybrid electro-active eyeglass lens 700 embodiment, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view along line AA thereof. In this illustrative example, lens 700 has a lens element 710. Mounted on the lens element 710 is an electroactive refractive matrix 720, which can have one or more electroactive regions that occupy all or a portion thereof. Also attached to the lens element 710 is a framework layer 730 that at least partially surrounds the electroactive refractive matrix 720. The lens element 710 has an astigmatism power correction region 740 having an astigmatism axis AA rotated approximately 45 degrees clockwise from the horizon only in this particular example. An optional cover layer 750 covers the electroactive refractive matrix 720 and the framework so 730.

  As discussed further below, the electroactive refractive matrix 720 can have a liquid crystal and / or a polymer gel. The electroactive refractive matrix 720 can also include a matching layer, a metal layer, a conductive layer, and / or an insulating layer.

  In another embodiment, the astigmatism power correction region 740 is removed so that the lens element 710 corrects only the sphere power. In other alternative embodiments, the lens element 710 may include any type of conventional refractive error including long range, short range and / or both, and spherical, cylindrical, prismatic and / or non-spherical errors. It can be done by correcting. The electroactive refraction matrix 720 can also correct non-conventional refraction errors such as short distance and / or aberrations. In other embodiments, the electroactive refractive matrix 720 can correct any type of conventional and non-conventional refractive errors, and the lens element 710 can correct conventional refractive errors.

  It has been discovered that an electroactive lens with a hybrid configuration solution has certain obvious advantages over that of a non-hybrid lens. These benefits include lower power requirements, smaller battery size, longer battery life, less electrical circuitry, fewer conductors, fewer insulators, and lower manufacturing costs. It is low, light transmittance is increased, and structural integrity is enhanced. However, it should be noted that hybrid electroactive lenses have a range of advantages, including reduced thickness and mass production.

  Also, non-hybrid, in some embodiments, all-field hybrid and partial field hybrid solutions are very limited, for example, when the electroactive structure design utilized is of a multigrid electroactive structure. It has been discovered that a limited number of SKUs (stock keeping units) can be mass produced. In this case, in mass production, it is only necessary to focus on a limited number of different features such as curvature and size for the wearer's anatomical suitability.

  In order to understand the importance of this improvement, one must understand the number of conventional lens materials required to apply for most prescriptions. About 95% of the correction prescription includes a sphere power correction that increases by 0.25 diopters within the range of -6.00 diopters to +6.00 diopters. Based on this range, there are about 49 commonly prescribed sphere powers. Of the prescription with astigmatism correction, about 95% falls in the range from -4.00 diopters up to +4.00 diopters by 0.25 diopters. Based on this range, there are about 33 commonly prescribed astigmatism (or cylindrical) powers. However, since astigmatism has an axial component, there is typically an astigmatism axial orientation of about 360 degrees that is prescribed by 1 degree increments. Thus, there are 360 different astigmatism axis prescriptions.

  Moreover, many prescriptions have a bifocal component to correct presbyopia. About 95% of prescriptions with presbyopia correction fall in the range of +1.00 to +3.00 diopters, increasing by 0.25 diopters, resulting in about 9 commonly prescribed presbyopia powers .

  Since some embodiments of the present invention can perform spherical, cylindrical, axial and presbyopic correction, one non-hybrid electroactive lens provides 5239080 (= 49 × 33 × 360 × −9) different prescriptions. Thus, a single non-hybrid electroactive lens can eliminate the need to mass produce and / or stock many lens materials SKU, and perhaps more importantly, for a particular patient It eliminates the need to grind and polish each lens material according to the prescription.

  Mass production of somewhat more than one non-hybrid electroactive lens SKU to account for the various lens curvatures needed to address anatomical issues such as face shape, eyelash length, etc. And / or can be stored as inventory. Nevertheless, the number of SKUs can be reduced from one million to about 5 or less.

  In the case of a hybrid electroactive lens, it is possible to reduce the number of required SKUs by correcting the conventional refraction error with the lens element and utilizing an almost centered electroactive layer. Referring to FIG. 7, the lens 700 can be rotated as necessary to place the astigmatism axis AA at a required position. Thus, the number of required hybrid lens materials can be reduced by a factor of 360. Moreover, the electroactive band of the hybrid lens can perform presbyopia correction, thereby reducing the number of lens materials required by a factor of 9. Thus, embodiments of hybrid electroactive lenses can reduce the number of lens materials required from more than 5 million to 1619 (= 49 × 33). Since it is reasonably possible to mass produce and / or store this number of hybrid lens stock SKUs, the need for grinding and polishing is eliminated.

  Nevertheless, it is still possible to grind and polish the semi-finished hybrid lens material. FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a semi-finished lens material 2800. FIG. In this embodiment, the semi-finished lens blank 2800 has a lens element 2810 having a finished surface 2820, an unfinished surface and a partial field electroactive refractive matrix 2840. In other embodiments, the semi-finished lens blank 2800 can have a full field electroactive layer. Moreover, the electroactive structure of the semi-finished lens material 2800 can be multigrid or single interconnected. Further, the semi-finished lens material 2800 can have refractive and / or diffraction properties.

  In hybrid or non-hybrid embodiments of electroactive lenses, a significant number of electroactive lenses can be tailored and controlled by a controller that is custom manufactured and / or programmed for the patient's prescription needs. The required correction prescriptions can be made and customized. Thus, millions of prescriptions and many lens styles, a single vision lens material and many multifocal semi-finished lens materials are no longer needed. In fact, the manufacturing and distribution of most lenses and frames can be revolutionized as is known.

  It should be noted that the present invention includes non-hybrid electroactive lenses and pre-manufactured electronic eyewear (frames and / or lenses) or electronic eyewear that is custom-made upon delivery to a patient or customer. It has both a partial field specific hybrid electroactive lens. When the eyewear is pre-made and assembled, both the frame and lens are pre-made with the already rimmed lens and fitted into the spectacle frame. Also, programmable and reprogrammable controllers, as well as pre-made and eye care professional locations, or for example, for the installation of programmed controllers and / or one or more controller components, or patients Mass production of frames and lenses with the necessary electrical components that can be sent to some other location for a prescription is also considered part of the present invention.

  In some cases, the controller and / or one or more controller components are part of a pre-manufactured frame / electroactive lens assembly and programmed at an eye care professional location or some other location. Can. The controller and / or one or more controller components can be, for example, in the form of a chip or thin film and can be housed in a frame of glasses, on a frame, in a lens or on a lens. The controller and / or one or more controller components may be reprogrammable or not reprogrammable based on the business strategy to be implemented. If the controller and / or one or more controller components are reprogrammable, as long as the patient or customer is pleased with the cosmetic appearance and functionality of his or her glasses frame and electroactive lens, It can be updated repeatedly.

  In the latter case, i.e. the non-hybrid and hybrid electroactive lens embodiments just discussed, these lenses must be structurally robust enough to protect the eye from damage from foreign objects. In the United States, most eyewear lenses must pass the FDA required impact test. In order to meet these requirements, it is important that the support structure be incorporated in or on the lens. In the hybrid case, this hybrid type is achieved, for example, using prescription or non-prescription single vision or multifocal lens elements as the structural basis. For example, the structural foundation for a hybrid mold can be made from polycarbonate. In the case of non-hybrid lenses, in certain embodiments, the selected electroactive material and thickness are the basis for this required structure. In other embodiments, a non-formulated carrier base or substrate on which the electroactive material is positioned provides the required protection.

  When utilizing an electroactive band for a spectacle lens in some hybrid designs, it may be important to maintain proper distance correction when power interruption to the lens occurs. In the case of a battery or wiring failure, in some situations it is disastrous if the wearer is driving a car or driving an airplane and their distance correction is lost. In order to prevent such an event, the electroactive eyeglass lens design of the present invention can maintain distance correction when the electroactive band is in the off position (inactivated or inactivated). In the embodiment of the present invention, this can be achieved by performing distance correction with a conventional fixed focal length optical element, whether it is a refractive hybrid type or a diffraction hybrid type. Thus, any additional power is provided by the electroactive band. Thus, a conventional lens element maintains the wearer's distance correction, resulting in a fail-safe electroactive device.

FIG. 9 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of another electroactive lens 900 having a refractive index lens element 910 adapted to an electroactive refractive matrix 920. In this illustrative example, a converging lens element 910 having a refractive index n ₁ provides distance correction. Mounted on lens element 910 is an electroactive refractive matrix 920 that can have an unactivated state and multiple activated states. The electroactive refractive matrix 920 has a refractive index n ₂ that approximately matches the refractive index n ₁ of the lens element 910 when it is in its unactivated state. More precisely, when in the unactivated state, n ₂ is within 0.05 refractive units of n ₁ . framework layer 930 having a substantially matching the refractive index _{n 3} in the refractive index _{n 1} of the lens element 910 with 0.05 refractive a unit of n ₁ is surrounds the electroactive refractive matrix 920.

  FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of another electroactive lens device 1000. In this illustrative example, electroactive lens 1010 includes lens element 1040 and electroactive refractive matrix 1050. A distance meter transmitter 1020 is positioned in the electroactive refraction matrix 1050. A distance meter detector / receiver 1030 is positioned in the electroactive refraction matrix 1050. In another embodiment, either the transmitter 1020 or the receiver 1030 can be positioned in the electroactive refractive matrix 1050. In other alternative embodiments, either the transmitter 1020 or the receiver 1030 can be positioned in or on the lens element 1040. In other embodiments, either the transmitter 1020 or the receiver 1030 can be positioned on the outer cover layer 1060. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the transmitter 1020 and the receiver 1030 can be positioned in a combination of the above components.

  FIG. 11 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a diffractive electroactive lens. In this illustrative example, lens element 1110 provides distance correction. A diffraction pattern 1120 having a refractive index of n−1 is etched on one surface of the lens element 1110. An electroactive refraction matrix 1130 is attached to the lens element 1110 and covers the diffraction pattern, and this electroactive refraction matrix 1130 has n-2 approximation to n-1 when it is in its deactivated state. Has a refractive index. In addition, a framework layer 1140 is attached to the lens element 1110, and the framework layer 1140 is made of almost the same material as the lens element 1110 and partially covers the electroactive refraction matrix 1130. A cover 1150 is attached across the electroactive refractive matrix 1130 and the framework layer 1140. The framework layer 1140 can be an extension of the lens element 1110 without an actual layer attached, but the lens element 1110 is constructed to frame or circumscribe the electroactive refraction matrix 1130. .

  FIG. 12 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of an electroactive lens 1200 having a multifocal optical element 1210 attached to an electroactive framework layer 1220, and FIG. 13 is a side view thereof. In this illustrative example, multifocal optical element 1210 is of a progressive addition lens design. Moreover, in this illustrative example, the multifocal optical element 1210 has a first photorefractive focal band 1212 and a second progressively added light refractive focal band 1214. Mounted on the multifocal optical element 1210 is an electroactive framework layer 1220 having an electroactive region positioned over a second progressive addition photorefractive focal zone 1214. A cover layer 1230 is attached to the electroactive framework layer 1220. The framework layer 1220 may be electrically active or electrically inactive. If the framework layer 1220 is electrically active, an insulating material is utilized to insulate the active region from the non-activated region.

  In most but not all aspects of the present invention, the patient or wearer's eye movements are programmed to program electroactive eyewear to correct a person's visual acuity to its optimal value and thus to compensate for unconventional refractive errors. It is necessary to track each eye's gaze by tracking.

  FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tracking device 1400. A frame 1410 houses the electroactive lens 1420. A tracking signal source 1430 such as a light emitting diode is attached to the back side of the electroactive lens 1420 (the side closest to the eyes of the wearer, also referred to as the proximal side). A tracking signal receiver 1440 such as a light reflection source is attached to the back side of the electroactive lens 1420. This receiver 1440 and, where possible, the source 1430 are connected to a controller (not shown) that has instructions in its memory that should be tracked. Using this solution, it is possible to pinpoint the movements of the eyes and any changes in them, very accurately. This is the case when certain, but not all, non-conventional refractive errors need to be corrected and isolated within a person's line of sight (eg, certain corneal irregularities that move as the eye moves) Required in case of sex or bumps).

  In various other embodiments, source 1430 and / or receiver 1440 are attached to the back side of frame 1410, embedded on the back side of frame 1410, and / or embedded on the back side of lens 1420. be able to.

  An important part of any spectacle lens, including electroactive eyeglass lenses, is the part used to produce the sharpest image characteristics in the user's field of view. A healthy person can see approximately 90 degrees on each side, but the sharpest eyesight is placed in a smaller field of view corresponding to the portion of the retina that has the best eyesight. This area of the retina is known as a small indentation and is roughly a circular area with a diameter of 0.40 mm on the retina. In addition, the eye projects a scene over the entire pupil diameter, and thus the pupil diameter affects the size of most critical parts of the spectacle lens. The final critical area of a spectacle lens is simply the sum of the diameter of the eye pupil plus the projected dimension of the phobia view onto the spectacle lens.

  A typical range for the diameter of the pupil of the eye is from 3.0 mm to 5.5 mm, with the most common value being 4.0 mm. The average diameter of the phobia is approximately 0.4 mm.

  The typical range of dimensions of projection on a phobia spectacle lens is affected by parameters such as eye length, distance from eye to spectacle lens, and the like.

  The tracking device of this particular embodiment of the invention locates the area of the electroactive lens that correlates to eye movement relative to the patient's retinal phobia area. This is important when the software of the present invention is programmed to always correct non-conventional refraction errors that can be corrected as the eye moves. Thus, in most, but not all, embodiments of the present invention that correct non-conventional refractive errors, electroactively alter the area of the lens through which the line of sight passes when the eyes stare or stare at their target. is required. In other words, in this particular embodiment of the present invention, the majority of electroactive lenses correct for conventional refractive errors and consider the angle at which the line of sight intersects different parts of the lens, and this angle is identified. The tracking device and software also move the focus of the targeted electroactive region as the eye moves to incorporate the final prescription for the region and correct for non-conventional refractive errors.

  In most, if not all, embodiments of the present invention, this tracking device and software is used to correct a person's visual acuity to its maximum while viewing or staring at a distant object. When used to look at nearby points, the tracking device, if used, is used to calculate the near-point focus range to correct for near- or mid-range focus needs for human adjustment and convergence. . This is of course programmed into the electroactive eyewear controller and / or one or more controller components as a patient or wearer prescription. In still other embodiments of the invention, a rangefinder and / or tracking device is incorporated into the lens and / or frame.

  It should be pointed out that in other embodiments of the invention, such as embodiments that correct certain types of non-conventional refraction errors, such as irregular astigmatism, for example, are not all. In most cases, electroactive lenses do not need to track the eyes of the patient or wearer. In this case, the entire electroactive lens is programmed to correct this refractive error as well as other conventional refractive errors of the patient.

  It has also been discovered that since aberrations are directly related to viewing distance, these aberrations can be corrected in relation to viewing distance. That is, once the aberration is measured, it can be electrically isolated by separating the electroactive region so as to electrically correct the aberration for a particular distance, such as far field, intermediate field, and / or near field. It is possible to correct in the active refractive matrix. For example, the electroactive lens can be separated into a far field, an intermediate field, and a near field correction band, and the software controls each band to correct aberrations that affect the corresponding viewing distance by this band. Thus, in this particular embodiment of the invention where the electroactive refraction matrix is separated at different distances so that each separation region corrects specific aberrations at specific distances, non-refractive errors are corrected without a tracking mechanism. Is possible.

  Finally, it should be pointed out that in other embodiments of the present invention, such as those caused by aberrations without physically isolating and tracking the electroactive region. It is possible to achieve a conventional correction of refraction error. In this embodiment, the software uses the viewing distance as an input to focus the predetermined electroactive region to cause the required correction for aberrations that affect visual acuity at the predetermined viewing distance. adjust.

  Furthermore, it has been discovered that hybrid or non-hybrid electroactive lenses can be designed to have full field or partial field effects. In the all-field effect, it means that the electroactive refractive matrix or layer covers most of the lens area in the spectacle frame. In the full field, the entire electroactive region can be adjusted to the desired power. The full field electroactive lens can also be adjusted to provide a partial field formula. However, the partial field electroactive specific lens design cannot be adjusted full field due to the circuitry required to make the partial field specific. In the case of a full field lens adjusted to be a partial field lens, a portion of the electroactive lens can be adjusted to the desired power.

  FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of another electroactive lens device 1500. A frame 1510 houses an electroactive lens 1520 having a partial field 1530.

  For comparison, FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of yet another electroactive lens device 1600. In this illustrative example, frame 1610 houses electroactive lens 1620 having a full field 1630.

  In certain embodiments of the present invention, the multifocal electroactive optical element is pre-manufactured and, in some cases, as a finished multifocal electroactive lens material, depending on the significantly reduced number of SKUs required. They are even inventoried at distribution points. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the distributed multi-focal electroactive lens material can be easily fitted to the electronic enabling frame and trimmed by the distribution office. It should be understood that although the present invention can in most cases be a partial field specific electroactive lens, it may also be a full field electroactive lens.

  In one hybrid embodiment of the present invention, a conventional single vision lens element is of an aspherical or non-aspherical design with an annular surface for correction of astigmatism, An aspheric surface is utilized to provide distance power needs. If astigmatism correction is required, the appropriate power single vision lens element is selected and rotated to the appropriate astigmatism axis position. When this is done, the single vision lens element can be trimmed for the shape and size of the eye wire frame. The electroactive refractive matrix can then be applied to a single vision lens element, or the electroactive refractive matrix can be applied prior to edging and later the entire lens unit can be edged. It should be pointed out that for the edging of applying an electroactive refractive matrix to a lens element, i.e. a single vision or multifocal electroactive element, before the edging, an electroactive material such as a polymer gel. Is advantageous over liquid crystal materials.

  The electroactive refractive matrix can be attached to the adaptable lens element by different techniques known in the art. Adaptable lens elements are those whose curves and surfaces appropriately accept the electroactive refractive matrix in terms of bonding, aesthetics and / or appropriate final lens power. For example, an adhesive can be utilized, which is applied directly to the lens element and then applied to the electroactive layer. The electroactive refractive matrix can also be manufactured to be attached to the release film, in which case the electroactive refractive matrix can be removed and reattached to the lens element with an adhesive. It is also possible to attach the electroactive refractive matrix to a bi-directional membrane carrier where the carrier itself is attached to the lens element with an adhesive. Furthermore, an electroactive refractive matrix can be applied using surface casting techniques, in which case the electroactive refractive matrix is created in situ.

  In the hybrid embodiment described above (FIG. 12), a combination of static and non-static solutions is used to meet human intermediate and near vision needs and appropriate distance correction required. And, for example, a multifocal progressive lens 1210 having a near-add power of approximately +1.00 diopters (“D”) is utilized in place of a single vision lens element. In utilizing this embodiment, the electroactive refractive matrix 1220 can be placed on each side of the multifocal progressive lens element as well as embedded inside the lens element. This electroactive refractive matrix is utilized to provide additional added power.

  If lower summing power is utilized in the lens element than is required by the overall multifocal lens, the final summing plus power will result in lower multifocal summing power and the additional required proximity generated by the electroactive layer. This is the total additional power with the power. For example, if the multifocal additional lens element has an added power of +1.00 and the electroactive refractive matrix produces a near power of +1.00, the total near power for the hybrid electroactive lens is +2.00 D is there. Using this solution, it is possible to significantly reduce unwanted cognitive distortion from multifocal lenses, in particular progressive addition lenses.

  In some hybrid electronically active embodiments where multifocal progressive addition lens elements are utilized, an electroactive refractive matrix is utilized to remove unwanted astigmatism. This neutralizes or significantly reduces undesired astigmatism only through electroactive neutralization power compensation in the region of the lens where undesired astigmatism is present. Achieved by:

  In some embodiments of the present invention, partial field decentralization is required. When applying a distributed partial field electroactive refraction matrix, address the proper astigmatism axis position of a single vision lens element to account for correcting human astigmatism, if any It is necessary to align the electroactive refractive matrix in a manner as well as to position the electronic variable power field at the appropriate location in the human eye. The partial field design also requires that the partial field positions be aligned taking into account the appropriate distributed installation with respect to the patient's pupillary needs. Furthermore, unlike conventional lenses that are placed so that static bifocal, multifocal or progressive areas are always below human long-distance gaze, the use of electroactive lenses is effective for conventional multifocal lenses Considering some degree of manufacturing freedom. Thus, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the electroactive region is typically positioned to view the far, middle and near field regions of a conventional electro-inactive multifocal lens. For example, the electroactive region can be placed above the 180 meridian of the lens element, so that the multifocal near-field band can sometimes be placed above the 180 meridian of the lens element. Providing a near vision band above the 180 meridian of the lens element works at a short distance to the wearer's immediate forward or overhead object, for example, working on a computer monitor or above the head with a picture frame. This is particularly useful for eyeglass wearers who are nailing.

  In the case of a non-hybrid electroactive lens, or both a hybrid full-field lens and a hybrid partial field lens, e.g. 35 mm in diameter, is the electroactive layer applied directly to a single vision lens element as described above? Alternatively, it is pre-manufactured with an electro-active finish multifocal lens material, or attached to a multifocal progressive lens element prior to fringing the lens to the shape of the frame's lens mount. This allows for pre-assembly of electroactive lens material, as well as finished inventory but unbordered electroactive lens material can be inventoried, thus including any doctor or eyeglasses office Making eyeglasses in the sales channel of is just in time. This allows all optical medical facilities to provide fast service with minimal needs for expensive production equipment. This is for manufacturers, retailers and their patients, buyers.

  In view of the size of the partial field, it has been shown, for example, in one embodiment of the present invention that the partial field specific region can be a centered or eccentric rounded design with a diameter of 35 mm. It should be pointed out that the diameter size can vary depending on the needs. In certain embodiments of the invention, round diameters of 22 mm, 28 mm, 30 mm, and 36 mm are utilized.

  The size of the partial field can depend on the electroactive refractive matrix and / or the structure of the electroactive field. At least two such structures are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, i.e., a single interconnect electroactive structure and a multigrid electroactive structure.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens having a single interconnect structure. The lens 1700 includes a lens element 1710 and an electroactive refraction matrix 1720. Within the electroactive refractive matrix 1720, an insulator 1730 separates the activated partial field 1740 from the framed non-activated portion (ie, region) 1750. A single wire or conductive strip interconnect 1760 connects the activation region to the power source and / or controller. Note that, if not all, in most embodiments, the single interconnect structure has a pair of conductors that connect it to a power source.

  FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens having a multigrid structure. The lens 1800 has a lens element 1810 and an electroactive refractive matrix 1820. Within the electroactive refractive matrix 1820, the insulator 1830 separates the activated partial field 1840 from the framed non-activated field (ie, region) 1850. A plurality of wire interconnects 1860 connect the activation region to the power source and / or controller.

  It has been discovered that when using a small diameter for a partial field, the electroactive thickness from the edge to the center of the partial field specific region can be minimized when using a single interconnect electroactive structure It was done. This plays a very decisive role in minimizing the power needs, and in particular the number of electroactive layers required for a single interconnect structure. This is not always the case for partial field specific regions utilizing multigrid electroactive structures. When utilizing a single interconnected electroactive structure, many, but not all, embodiments of the present invention, for example, consider multiple electroactive layers that yield a total combined electroactive power of + 2.50D, A number of single interconnected electroactive structures are layered in or on the lens. In this example only, five + 2.50D single interconnect layers can be stacked on top of each other, separated by an insulating layer only in most cases. In this way, the necessary refraction for each layer by minimizing the electrical needs of one thick single interconnect layer that is impractical to properly power properly in some cases. A change in rate can occur.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, certain embodiments having multiple single interconnected electroactive layers can be energized in a programmed order so that they can be focused over a range of distances. It should be pointed out. For example, for a + 2.00D presbyopia, to view at a fingertip distance, two + 0.50D single interconnect electroactive layers are energized resulting in a + 1.00D intermediate focus, then two additional The + 0.50D interconnect layer can be energized to give + 2.00D presbyopia the ability to read near 40 inches. The exact number of electroactive layers and the power of each layer can vary depending on the optical design and the total power required to span a specific range of near and intermediate viewing distances for a specific presbyopia Should be understood.

  Furthermore, in certain other embodiments of the invention, a combination of one or more single interconnect electroactive layers is present in the lens in combination with a layer of a multigrid electroactive structure. This gives the ability to focus for intermediate and close range that presents proper programming. Finally, in other embodiments of the invention, only multigrid electroactive structures are utilized for hybrid or non-hybrid lenses. In any case, a multi-grid electro-active structure in combination with an appropriately programmed electro-active eyewear controller and / or one or more controller components provides focusing over a wide range of intermediate and short distances. be able to.

  Also, semi-finished electroactive lens materials considering surface finish are also within the scope of the present invention. In this case, an eccentric or centered partial field electroactive refractive matrix is combined with the material, or the full field electroactive refractive matrix is combined with the material and then matched to the correct prescription required. Surface finished.

  In one embodiment, a variable power electroactive region is positioned throughout the lens, which is a constant spherical power over the entire surface of the lens to address the near-field focusing needs for human work. Adjusted as a change. In other embodiments, the variable power region is adjusted as a constant spherical power variation across the lens, producing a non-spherical ambient power effect to reduce distortion and aberrations at the same time. In some of the embodiments described above, the far-field power is corrected by a single visual acuity, a multifocal finish lens material or a multifocal progressive lens element. The electroactive element layer primarily corrects the need for work far focus. Note that this is not always the case. In some cases, single vision, multifocal finishing lens elements or multifocal progressive lens elements are utilized for far-range spherical power only, and near-field work power and astigmatism are corrected by an electroactive refractive matrix. Alternatively, it is possible to correct only astigmatism using a single visual acuity or a multifocal lens element, and to correct spherical power and near vision work power with an electroactive layer. It is also possible to correct long-range sphere and astigmatism needs with an electroactive layer using a piano, single vision, multifocal finish lens element or progressive multifocal lens element.

  It should be pointed out that in the present invention, the prismatic meter, whether spherical or non-spherical power, required power correction, as well as full distance power needs, intermediate distance range power needs and near points. Power needs can be met with any number of additional power components. These are all long-range spherical power needs, some of long-range spherical power needs, all of non-aberration power needs, some of non-aberration power needs, all of prismatic power needs, prismatic power Including the use of a single vision or finished multifocal lens element that provides any combination of some or more of the needs, when combined with an electroactive layer, results in a person's full focusing needs.

  It has been discovered that an electroactive refractive matrix can utilize a technique such as adaptive element correction to maximize a person's vision with his or her electroactive lens before or after final processing. This can be accomplished by a patient or scheduled wearer looking through electroactive lenses and adjusting these lenses by hand or with a specially designed automatic refractor, which is And / or measure non-conventional refraction errors almost constantly and correct any residual refraction errors as long as they are spherical, astigmatism, aberrations, etc. With this technique, the wearer can often achieve 20/10 or better vision.

  Furthermore, it should be pointed out that in some embodiments, a Fresnel power lens layer is utilized with a single vision or multifocal lens material or element and an electroactive layer. For example, the Fresnel layer is used to provide spherical power and thereby reduce the thickness of the lens, the single vision lens element is used to correct astigmatism, the electroactive refractive matrix is intermediate and Used to correct short-range focusing needs.

  As discussed above, in other embodiments, diffractive elements are utilized with single vision lens elements and electroactive layers. In this solution, a diffractive element that addresses additional focusing correction further reduces the need for power, circuit and electroactive layer thickness. Also, any one or more of the following combinations may be utilized in the additional method to provide the total additional power required for the correction power needs of a person's glasses. These are Fresnel layers, conventional or non-conventional single vision or multifocal lens elements, diffractive element layers, and electroactive refractive matrices or layers. Furthermore, it is possible to give the electroactive material the shape and / or effect of the diffraction or Fresnel layer via an etching method so as to produce a non-hybrid or hybrid electroactive device having a diffraction or Fresnel component. Moreover, it is possible to generate not only conventional lens power but also prismatic power by using an electroactive lens.

  Also, a power circuit utilizing a round centered hybrid partial field specific electroactive lens design with a diameter of approximately 22 mm or 35 mm or an adjustable eccentric hybrid electroactive partial field specific design with a diameter of approximately 30 mm It has been discovered that needs, battery life and battery size can be minimized to reduce the manufacturing cost of the final electroactive eyeglass lens and to improve its optical transmission.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the decentered partial field specific electroactive lens is such that the optical center of this field is that of a single vision lens in order to satisfy the correct near-to-medium pupil range of the patient. It is positioned approximately 5 mm below the optical center and at the same time so that the near field electroactive partial field is eccentric in the nasal or temporal direction. It should be noted that such design solutions are not limited to circular designs, but can be virtually any shape that allows the appropriate electroactive viewing area required for human vision needs. For example, the design can be oval, rectangular, square, octagonal, partially curved, etc. It is important to ensure that the viewing area is adequate for hybrid partial field specific designs or hybrid full field designs that are capable of achieving partial fields, as well as non-hybrid full field designs that are capable of achieving partial fields. It is to install.

  Furthermore, it has been discovered that in many (but not all) electroactive refractive matrices with irregular thicknesses are utilized. That is, the metallic conductive envelope is not parallel and the gel polymer thickness is varied to produce a converging or diverging lens shape. Such non-uniform thickness electroactive refractive matrices can be used in non-hybrid embodiments or hybrid embodiments with single vision or multifocal lens elements. This results in various adjustable lens powers with various combinations of these fixed and electrically adjustable lenses. In some embodiments of the present invention, a single interconnect electroactive refractive matrix utilizes non-parallel sides that produce a non-uniform thickness of the electroactive structure. However, in most but not all embodiments of the present invention, the multigrid electroactive structure utilizes a balanced structure that produces its uniform thickness.

このようなハイブリッド組立体のための可能な製造方法は以下のごとくである。一例では、電気活性ポリマーゲル層が、射出成形されたり、流延成形されたり、形押し成形されたり、研削されたり、ダイアモンド研削されたり、および／または磨いかれたりしてネットレンズ素子形状にされることができる。薄い金属層が、例えばスパッタリングまたは真空蒸着により、この射出成形または流延成形されたポリマーゲル層に付着される。他の模範的な実施の形態では、付着された薄い金属層は、レンズ素子と、射出成形または流延成形された電気活性材料層の他の側との両方に設置される。導電層は、必要でないこともあるが、もし存在するなら、この導電層は、金属層に真空蒸着されるか、或いはスパッタリング付着される。 To show some of the possibilities, a convergent single vision lens element may be joined to a convergent electroactive lens to produce a hybrid lens assembly. Depending on the electroactive lens material used, the voltage increases or decreases the refractive index. By adjusting the voltage to increase the refractive index to reduce the power of the final lens assembly, as shown in the first column of Table 1 for different combinations of fixed lens and electroactive lens power, Gives less positive power. As the applied voltage is raised to increase the refractive index of the electroactive lens element, the power of the final hybrid lens assembly changes as shown in Table 2 for different combinations of fixed lens and electroactive lens power. . Note that in this embodiment of the invention, only a single applied voltage difference is required before and after the electroactive layer.

A possible manufacturing method for such a hybrid assembly is as follows. In one example, the electroactive polymer gel layer is injection molded, cast molded, stamped, ground, diamond ground, and / or polished into a net lens element shape. Can. A thin metal layer is applied to this injection molded or cast molded polymer gel layer, for example by sputtering or vacuum deposition. In other exemplary embodiments, the deposited thin metal layer is placed on both the lens element and the other side of the injection molded or cast molded electroactive material layer. A conductive layer may not be necessary, but if present, this conductive layer is vacuum deposited or sputter deposited onto the metal layer.

  Unlike conventional bifocal, other focal or progressive lenses, where the near vision power segment needs to be positioned differently for different multifocal designs, the lens of the present invention is always installed in one common position. be able to. Unlike the different static power bands used by conventional solutions (in order to use such bands, the eyes move and the head tilts), according to the present invention, a person looks straight ahead. Or can be seen slightly above or below, and the electroactive partial field or full field is adjusted to compensate for the required near working distance. This reduces eye fatigue and head and eye movement. In addition, if it is necessary to see far distances, the adjustable electroactive refractive matrix is adjusted to the correct power needed to clearly see distant objects. In most cases this will result in piano power in the near-acting distance range that can be adjusted for electrical activity, thus transforming the hybrid electroactive lens into a long-distance vision correction lens or a low-power multifocal progressive lens that corrects long-distance power. Or adjust.

  In some cases it is advantageous to reduce the thickness of a single vision lens element. For example, the center thickness of the lens or the thickness of the edge of the minus lens can be reduced by some suitable distance power compensation in the electroactive tunable layer. This is true in all cases of all-field or almost all-field hybrid electroactive eyeglass lenses, or non-hybrid electroactive eyeglass lenses.

  It should also be pointed out that the adjustable electroactive refraction matrix may not be positioned in the restricted area, but no matter what size, area or shape is required, it may be single vision or multifocal. Cover the entire lens element. The exact overall size, shape and position of the electroactive refractive matrix is limited only by performance and aesthetics.

  It is also possible to further reduce the electronics complexity required by the present invention by utilizing the appropriate front convex and reverse concave curves of single vision or multifocal lens material or elements. And this is part of the present invention. By proper selection of the single vision or multifocal lens material or the front convex base curve of the element, it is possible to minimize the number of connecting electrodes required to activate the electroactive layer . In some embodiments, only two electrodes are required if the entire electroactive region is regulated by a set amount of power.

  This occurs due to a change in the refractive index of the electroactive material resulting in different power front, back or intermediate electroactive layers depending on the placement of the electroactive layer. Thus, the proper curvature relationship between the front and back curves of each layer affects the required power adjustment of the electroactive hybrid or non-hybrid lens. For most, but not all, hybrid designs, especially those that do not utilize diffraction or Fresnel components, the front and back curves of the electroactive refraction matrix are single vision or multifocal semi-finished materials or single vision or multiple. It is important that it is not parallel to that of the focus finishing lens material. One exception is a hybrid design that utilizes a multigrid structure.

  It should be pointed out that one embodiment is of a hybrid electroactive lens that utilizes an all-field solution and a minimum of two electrodes. Other embodiments utilize a multi-grid electroactive refractive matrix solution to produce an electroactive refractive matrix, in which case multiple electrodes and electrical circuits are required. When using a multi-grid electroactive structure, the refractive index difference is zero to 0.02 units because of the border of the grid that is electrically activated to be cosmetically acceptable (almost invisible) It has been discovered that it is necessary to make a difference between adjacent grids. Depending on cosmetic requirements, the range of refractive index difference can be from 0.01 to 0.05 units of refractive index difference, but in most embodiments of the invention this difference is controlled by the controller. Limited to a minimum difference in refractive index of 0.02 or 0.03 units between adjacent regions.

  It also has different electroactive structures such as single interconnected structures and / or multigrid structures that can react as needed when energized to produce the desired additional end focusing power. It is possible to utilize one or more electroactive layers. Simply, for example, the full field far-field power can be corrected by the front electroactive layer (distal to the wearer's eyes), and by utilizing the partial field specific solution generated by the back layer A posterior (ie, proximal) electroactive refractive matrix can be utilized to focus for the near vision distance range. By utilizing this multi-electroactive refractive matrix solution, flexibility is increased while keeping the layers very thin and reducing the complexity of each individual layer. Furthermore, according to this solution, the individual layers can be arranged so that they can all be energized at once to produce a simultaneous variable additional focusing power effect. This variable focusing effect compensates for intermediate distance range focusing needs and near vision distance range focusing needs when a person sees from far to near, and then has the opposite effect when the person sees from near to far Can be generated in a time-delayed order.

  Also, the multi-electroactive refraction matrix resolution means increases the electroactive focusing power response time. This occurs due to a combination of factors, and one factor is that the thickness of the electroactive material required for the multi-electroactive layered lens is thin. The multi-electroactive refraction matrix also reduces the complexity of the main multi-electroactive refraction matrix to two or more less complex individual layers that are required to be not individually main electroactive layers. Can be divided.

  The following describes the material and configuration of the electroactive lens, its electrical wiring circuit, power supply, electrical switching technology, software required for adjusting the focal length, and object distance range.

  FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an electroactive refractive matrix 1900. Metal layers 1920 are attached to both sides of the electroactive material 1910. A conductive layer 1930 is attached to the opposite side of each metal layer 1920.

  The electroactive refraction matrix discussed above has a multilayer structure made of polymer gel or liquid crystal as an electroactive material. However, in some cases of the present invention, both a polymer gel electroactive refractive matrix and a liquid crystal electroactive refractive matrix are utilized in the same lens. For example, the liquid crystal layer may be used to create an electronic color effect, i.e., a sunglasses effect, and the polymer gel layer may be used to increase or decrease power. Both polymer gels and liquid crystals have the property that their optical refractive index can be changed by the applied voltage. The electroactive material is covered on each side by two substantially transparent metal layers, and a conductive layer is attached to each metal layer for good electrical connection to these layers. When a voltage is applied across the two conductive layers, an electric field is generated between these layers via the electroactive material, changing the refractive index. In most cases, the liquid crystal, and in some cases the gel, is contained in a sealed enclosure of a material selected from silicon, polymethacrylate, styrene, proline, ceramic, glass, nylon, mylar, etc. .

  FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens having a multigrid structure. The lens 2000 includes an electroactive material 2010 that, in one embodiment, defines a plurality of pixels that can each be separated by an electrically insulating material. Can do. Thus, the electroactive material 2010 can define multiple adjacent bands, each containing one or more pixels.

  A metal layer 2020 is attached to one side of the electroactive material 2010, and this metal layer 2020 has a grid array of metal electrodes 2030 separated by an electrically insulating material (not shown). ing. The same metal layer 2020 is symmetrically attached to the opposite side (not shown) of the electroactive material 2010. Thus, each electroactive pixel is matched to a pair of electrodes to define a grid element pair.

  Attached to the metal layer 2020 is a conductive layer 2040 having a plurality of interconnecting paths 2050, each separated by an electrically insulating material (not shown). Each interconnect 2050 connects one grid element pair to a power source and / or controller. In another embodiment, some or all of the interconnect paths 2050 connect more than one grid element pair to a power source and / or controller.

  Note that in some embodiments, the metal layer 2020 has been removed. In other embodiments, the metal layer 2020 is replaced by a matching layer.

  In certain embodiments of the present invention, the front (distal surface), intermediate surface and / or back surface can be made of a material comprising a conventional photochromic component. This photochromic component may or may not be utilized with the electron-generated color features associated as part of the electroactive lens. When this light coloring component is utilized, it praises additional colors. However, it should be pointed out that in many embodiments of the present invention, the photochromic material is used only for electroactive lenses without the use of electronic color components. The photochromic material can be included in the electroactive lens by the layer composition, or can be added later to the electroactive refractive matrix, or as part of the outer layer on the front or back of the lens. Furthermore, the electroactive lens of the present invention can be hard coated and, if desired, the front, back, or both can be coated with an anti-reflective coating.

  This configuration, also referred to as a subassembly, can be electrically controlled to produce patient prismatic power, sphere power, astigmatism power correction, aspheric correction or aberration correction. Further, the subassembly can be controlled to mimic that of a Fresnel or diffractive surface. In one embodiment, if more than one type of correction is required, two or more subassemblies can be separated and juxtaposed by an electrically insulating layer. The insulating layer may be made of silicone oxide. In other embodiments, the same subassembly may be used to perform multiple power corrections. Any of the two subassemblies discussed above can be composed of two different structures. According to the first structural embodiment, each of the layers, ie the electroactive layer, the conductive layer and the metal layer, is a continuous layer of material, thus constituting a single interconnect structure. The second structural embodiment (as shown in FIG. 20) utilizes a metal layer in the form of a grid or array, and each sub-ream area is electrically isolated from its adjacent area. . In this embodiment showing a multi-grid electroactive structure, the conductive layer is etched to provide a separate electrical contact or electrode for each sub-array or grid element. In this way, different and different voltages may be applied to each grid element pair in the layer, resulting in regions of different refractive index in the electroactive material layer. Design details, including layer thickness, refractive index, voltage, candidate electroactive material, layer structure, number of layers or components, layer or component arrangement, curvature of each layer or component are It is up to the decision.

  It should be noted that a multigrid electroactive structure or a single interconnect electroactive structure can be utilized as a partial lens field or a full lens field. However, when a partial field specific electroactive refraction matrix is utilized, in most cases, an electroactive material having a refractive index that closely matches that of the partial region specific electroactive deactivation layer (framework layer) is partially field specific. It is utilized laterally adjacent to the electroactive region and separated from this region by an insulator. This is done to enhance the cosmetic properties of the electroactive lens by maintaining the overall appearance of the electroactive refractive matrix that appears as in an unactivated state. It should also be pointed out that in certain embodiments, the framework layer is of an electrically inactive material.

  The polymeric material can be of various polymers where the electroactive component is at least 30% by weight of the formulation. Such electroactive polymer materials are well known and commercially available. Examples of this material include polyester, polyether, polyamide, (PCB) pentacyanobiphenyl, and the like. The polymer gel may contain an electrothermosetting matrix material to increase its processability, improve adhesion to the encapsulating conductive layer, and improve its optical transparency. By way of example only, the matrix may be a vinyl polymer or vinyl derivative crosslinked with a cross-linked acrylate, methacrylate, polyurethane, bifunctional or polyfunctional acrylate or methacrylate.

The thickness of the gel layer can be, for example, between about 3 microns and about 10 microns, but can be as thick as 1 micron, or in other examples, about 4 microns and about 20 microns. It may be between. The gel layer can have a modulus of, for example, 100 pounds per inch to 800 pounds per inch, or as another example, 200 to 600 pounds per inch. The metal layer can have a thickness of, for example, about 10 ⁻⁴ microns to about 10 ⁻² microns, and as another example, about 0.8 × 10 ⁻³ microns to about 1.2 × 10 ⁻³ microns. The conductive layer may have a thickness of, for example, about 0.05 microns to about 0.2 microns, as another example, from about 0.8 microns to about 1.12 microns, and as another example, a thickness of about 0.1 microns. Can have.

  The metal layer is used to provide good contact between the conductive layer and the electroactive material. One skilled in the art will readily recognize suitable metal materials that can be used. For example, gold or silver can be used.

  In one embodiment, the refractive index of the electroactive material is, for example, between about 1.2 units and about 1.9 units, and as another example, about 1.45 units and about 1.75 units. The refractive index change is at least 0.02 per volt. The rate of change in refractive index with bolts, the actual refractive index of the electroactive material and the compatibility with the matrix determine the composition percentage of the electroactive polymer in the matrix, but not greater than 2.5 volts. There should be a change in the refractive index of the final composition as much as 0.02 units per volt at a base voltage of 2.5 volts.

  As previously discussed in the embodiments of the present invention utilizing a hybrid design, multiple portions of the electroactive refractive matrix assembly may be bonded with a suitable adhesive or bonding technique that is transparent to visible light. Mounted on a conventional lens. This bonding assembly can be by release paper or film having an electroactive refractive matrix that is pre-assembled and attached and ready for bonding to a conventional lens element. This release paper or film can be manufactured in situ and applied to the surface of the waiting lens element. Also, this release paper or film can be applied in advance to the surface of the lens wafer that is later bonded to the waiting lens element by an adhesive. The release paper or film can also be applied to a semi-finished lens material that is later surfaced or trimmed for the appropriate size, shape, and appropriate overall power needs. Finally, the release paper or film can be cast into a pre-formed lens element using surface casting techniques. This produces the electrically changeable power of the present invention. The electroactive refractive matrix may occupy the entire lens area or only a part thereof.

  The refractive index of the electroactive layer can only be changed correctly for the area required for focusing. For example, in the hybrid partial field design discussed above, the partial field region is activated and modified within this region. Therefore, in this embodiment, the refractive index is changed only in a specific partial region of the lens. In other embodiments of the hybrid global field design, the refractive index is changed across the entire surface. Similarly, the refractive index is changed across the entire area in a non-hybrid design. As discussed above, in order to maintain an acceptable optical cosmetic appearance, the difference in refractive index between adjacent regions of the electroactive element is 0.02 to 0.05 units of refractive index difference, preferably Should be limited to a maximum of 0.02 units to 0.03 units.

  In some cases, it is envisioned within the present invention that the user wants to take advantage of the partial field type and thus switch the electroactive refractive matrix to the full field type. In this case, the embodiment is structurally designed for a full-field embodiment, but the controller considers switching power needs from full-field to partial-field and back again. Programmed.

  A voltage is supplied to the optical assembly to generate the electric field necessary to simulate the electroactive lens. This is caused by a bundle of small diameter wires housed at the edge of the spectacle frame. These wires extend from the power source described below into the electroactive eyewear controller and / or one or more controller components and to the frame edges that surround each spectacle lens, where they are used in semiconductor manufacturing. The current wire bonding technology connects these wires to each grid element in the optical assembly. In an embodiment of a single wire interconnect structure that means one wire per conductive layer, only one voltage per eyeglass lens is required, and only two wires are required for each lens. is necessary. The voltage is applied to one conductive layer and its counterpart on the opposite side of the gel layer is kept at ground potential. In other embodiments, an alternating current (AC) voltage is applied across the opposing conductive layer. These two connections are easily formed at or near the frame edge of each spectacle lens.

  If a grid array of voltages is used, each grid sub-region in the array is addressed with a separate voltage, and a conductor connects each wire in the frame to a grid element on the lens. Indium oxide, tin oxide, indium tin oxide (ITO) to form a conductive layer of the electroactive assembly used to connect the wires in the frame edge to each grid element in the electroactive lens An optically transmissive conductive material amount such as may be used. This method can be used regardless of whether the electroactive region occupies the entire lens region or only a part thereof.

  One technique for achieving pixel formation in a multigrid array design is to form individual subregions of electroactive material each having a pair of drive electrodes to achieve an electric field across each subregion. It is to be. Another technique for achieving pixel formation uses patterned electrodes for conductive or metal layers grown on a substrate by lithographic printing. In this way, the electroactive material can be contained in a continuous region, and the region of the different electric field that results in pixel formation is generally defined by the turned electrodes.

  An electrical source, such as a battery, is included in the design to supply power to the optical assembly. Since the voltage to generate an electric field is small, the frame vine is designed with the insertion and removal of a small battery supplying this power. These batteries are connected to the wire bundle through multiplexed joints housed in the frame vine. In another embodiment, a conformal thin film battery is attached to the surface of the frame vine with an adhesive that can be removed and replaced when its fill is dissipated. A variation is to provide an AC adapter on the frame mounted battery with a fixture to allow in-situ charging of the bulk or conformal thin film battery when not in use.

  Other energy sources are possible, whereby a small fuel cell can be included in the spectacle frame to provide greater energy storage than the battery. The fuel cell can be recharged with a small fuel canister that injects fuel into the reservoir of the spectacle frame.

  In most but not all cases, it has been discovered that it is possible to minimize power needs by utilizing the solution of the hybrid multigrid structure of the present invention with partial field specific regions. It should be pointed out that although a hybrid partial field multigrid structure can be used, a hybrid full field multigrid structure can be used as well.

  In another solution of the present invention in which non-conventional refractive errors such as aberrations are corrected, the tracking device as discussed above is built into the eyewear, and the electroactive eye housed in the electroactive eyewear. Appropriate enabling software and programming of the wear controller and / or controller components are provided. This embodiment of the present invention tracks a person's line of sight by tracking the person's eyes and applies the necessary electrical energy to the specific area of the electroactive lens being viewed. In other words, as the eye moves, the targeted electrically energized region moves across the lens in response to a person's line of sight directed through the electroactive lens. This is manifested in several different lens designs. For example, a user can correct conventional (spherical, cylindrical and prismatic) refraction errors with a fixed power lens, an electroactive lens, or a hybrid lens of both of these types. In this example, non-conventional refractive errors are corrected by a multi-grid electro-active refraction matrix such that as the eye moves, the corresponding activated region of the electro-active lens moves with the eye. In other words, the line of sight of the eye corresponding to the movement of the eye moves across the lens in relation to the movement of the eye when it intersects the lens.

  It should be pointed out that this embodiment of the present invention can be used to minimize the electrical needs by simply energizing the limited areas seen directly. Therefore, the smaller the energized area, the less power is consumed at a time for a given prescription. Areas that are not directly visible are not energized or activated in most, if not all, and thus correct the conventional refractive error gained by a person to 20/20 visual acuity, for example, myopia, Correct for hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. The targeted and tracked region in this embodiment of the invention corrects as many non-conventional refractive errors as possible, which are irregular astigmatism, aberrations and irregularities in the eye plane or layer. In other embodiments of the present invention, the targeted tracked area corrects some conventional errors as well. In some of the previously described embodiments, this targeted tracked area is an eye tracking device positioned in eyewear or both eye tracking device and rangefinder device. Can be automatically positioned with the aid of a controller and / or one or more controller components by a range finder positioned in eyewear tracking.

  In some designs, only partially electroactive regions are utilized, but the entire surface is covered with electroactive material to avoid circular lines visible to the user in the lens in the deactivated state. In some embodiments of the present invention, a transparent insulator is utilized to keep electrical activation limited to the activated central region, and the edges of the active region are In order to keep it invisible, non-activated surrounding electroactive material is utilized.

  In other embodiments, a thin-film solar cell array can be attached to the surface of the frame, and using solar rays or ambient room lights, the voltage is supplied to the wires and the optical grid by the photoelectric effect. . In one embodiment of the invention, a solar cell array is used for main power, and the small battery discussed above is included as an auxiliary power source. In this embodiment, if no power is required, the battery can be charged from the solar cells during these times. The modification allows for attachment to the AC adapter and battery for this design.

  The electroactive lens can be switched to give the user a variable focal length. At least two switching positions are provided, but more switching positions are provided if necessary. In the simplest embodiment, the electroactive lens is on or off. In the off position, no current flows through the wire, no voltage is supplied to the grid assembly, and only fixed lens power is utilized. This is, for example, of course, assuming that the hybrid active lens utilizes a single vision or multifocal lens material or element that corrects for long distance vision as part of the configuration, so that the user can correct the far field distance. When you need it. In order to perform near vision correction for reading, the switch is turned on to produce a predetermined voltage or voltage array on the lens and positive added power to the electroactive assembly. If midfield correction is desired, a third switching position can be included. The switch can be controlled by a microprocessor or manually controlled by the user. In fact, several additional locations can be included. In other embodiments, the switch is analog rather than digital and provides a continuous change in the focal length of the lens by adjusting a knob or lever, such as volume adjustment in a radio.

  It can be said that any fixed lens power is not part of the design and that all vision correction is achieved via the electroactive lens. In this embodiment, a voltage or voltage array is supplied to the lens whenever both far and near vision correction are required by the requester. If only long-range correction or reading adjustment is required by the user, the electroactive lens is on when correction is required and off when correction is not required. However, this is not always the case. In some embodiments, depending on the design of the lens, switching off the voltage automatically increases the power in the far and / or myopic band.

  In one exemplary embodiment, the switch itself is positioned on the spectacle lens frame and connected to a controller, such as an application specific integrated circuit, housed in the spectacle frame. The controller responds to different positions of the switch by adjusting the voltage supplied from the power source. Thus, this controller constitutes the multiplexing device discussed above that supplies various voltages to the connecting wires. In addition, the controller may be a highly designed one in the form of a thin film, and may be provided so as to be matched along the frame like a battery or a solar cell.

  In one exemplary embodiment, the controller and / or one or more controller components are created and / or programmed upon recognition of the user's vision correction requirements, thereby allowing the user to It is easy to switch between different arrays of predetermined voltages adapted to his or her individual vision requirements. The electroactive eyewear controller and / or one or more controller components can be easily removed and / or programmed by a vision care professional or technician and as the user's vision correction requirements change, Replaced and / or programmed with a new “prescription” controller.

  One feature of the controller system switch is that the voltage applied to the electroactive lens can be changed in less than 1 microsecond. If the electroactive refractive matrix is made from an instant switching material, rapid changes in the focal length of the lens can be destructive to the wearer's vision. A gentle change from one focal length to another is desirable. As an additional feature of the invention, a “delay time” that speeds up the change can be programmed into the controller, thereby speeding up the change. Similarly, changes can be anticipated by forecast algorithms.

  In any case, the time constant of the change can be set to be proportional and / or responsive to the refractive index change required to address the wearer's vision. For example, small changes in focusing power can be switched quickly, while large changes in focusing power that cause the wearer to quickly move their gaze to read a print from a distant object. It can be set to occur over a period of time, eg, 10-100 milliseconds. This time constant can be adjustable depending on the wearer's comfort.

  In either case, the switch need not be on the glasses themselves. In another exemplary embodiment, the switch is in a separate module, as far as the user's clothing pocket, and is manually activated. This switch can be connected to the glasses with a thin wire or optical fiber. Another form of switch houses a small microwave or radio frequency short range transmitter that transmits a signal related to the switch position to a small receiver antenna provided to match the spectacle frame. In both of these switch configurations, the user has direct but careful control over the focal length change of his or her glasses.

  In various exemplary embodiments, the switch is positioned in, for example, a frame of spectacles, on a frame, in a lens and / or on a lens and is facing forward toward an object to be sensed. It is automatically controlled by such a visual field detector.

  FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of electroactive eyewear 2100. In this illustrative example, frame 2110 houses electroactive lenses 2120 that are connected to controller 2140 (integrated circuit) and power supply 2150 by connection wires 2130. One electroactive lens 2120 has a range finder transmitter 2160 attached thereto, and the other electroactive lens 2120 has a range finder receiver 2170 attached thereto. In various alternative embodiments, transmitter 2160 and / or receiver 2170 may be attached to any electroactive lens 2120, attached to frame 2110, embedded in lens 2120, and / or embedded in frame 2110. Can be. Further, rangefinder transmitter and / or receiver 2170 can be controlled by controller 2140 and / or a separate controller (not shown). Similarly, the signal received by receiver 2170 can be controlled by controller 2140 and / or a separate controller (not shown).

  In any case, the range finder is a searcher that uses various sources such as lasers, light emitting diodes, radio frequency waves, microwaves, or ultrasonic impulses to locate and determine the distance. Can be used. In one embodiment, a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) is used as the optical transmitter. The small size and flat profile of these devices makes them attractive for this application. In other embodiments, organic light emitting diodes or OLEDs are used as the light source for the rangefinder. The advantage of this device is that OLEDs can often be made to be almost transparent. Thus, OLEDs may be the preferred rangefinder design if makeup is a concern. This is because an OLED can be incorporated into a lens or frame without being noticeable.

  Appropriate sensors for receiving the reflected signal from the object are installed in one or more postures in front of the lens frame and connected to a small controller to calculate the distance range. In other embodiments, a single device can be made to operate in dual mode as both an emitter and a detector and connected to a distance range computer. This distance range is transmitted via a wire or fiber to a lens frame positioned switching controller or a wireless remote device supported by itself and defines the correct switch setting for the position of the analyzed object. In some cases, the aiming controller and the switching controller may be integrated with each other.

  It should be appreciated that in some situations, the rangefinder device may have difficulty switching the focal length of the electroactive lens if the wearer wants to move from one item of focus to another. For example, rangefinder transmitters and rangefinder receivers may require extra head movement by the lens wearer before the lens switches from one vision correction to another. Alternatively, “wrong switching” may occur when the lens switches from a vision correction actually required by the wearer to an inappropriate vision correction. For example, the lens may switch from a long distance correction to a medium or short distance correction instead of switching to a long distance correction that the wearer actually wants.

  Thus, in another exemplary embodiment, the rangefinder transmitter and rangefinder receiver are selected with an additional lens to control the width of the transmit beam produced by the transmitter and the received light cone received by the receiver. May be covered.

  FIG. 44a is an exploded perspective view of an integrated power supply, a controller and a range finder according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 44 a, the device 4400 has a range finder device 4420 connected to a controller 4440, which is connected to a power source 4460. 44b is a cross-sectional side view of the device 4400, along line Z-Z ', according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 44 b, the range finder device 4420 includes a range finder transmitter 4424 and a range finder receiver 4428. In this exemplary embodiment, range finder transmitter 4424 and range finder receiver 4428 are transmitter and receiver diodes, respectively, which may take the form of, for example, an IR laser diode (LED) or other invisible light source. In this exemplary embodiment, transmitter 4424 was selectively covered with a transmit lens 4426 to control the width of the transmit beam produced thereby. Similarly, the receiver 4428 may be selectively covered with a receiving lens 4430 to control the received light cone received thereby. The receiving area or light cone of receiver 4428 has a solid angle that allows light rays approaching the rangefinder device to reach the receiver as it passes through the receiving lens, hole or other device covering receiver 4428. A protective window may shield the internal components of rangefinder device 4420, and more particularly the transmitter and receiver, from the user's environment without affecting the function of these internal components.

  FIG. 45 is a side view of the rangefinder transmitter 4424 of FIG. 44b according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 45, the transmission lens 4426 has a predetermined divergence power to diverge the beam B generated by the transmitter 4424 to a predetermined pattern width D for a predetermined working distance. Thus, the width of the beam produced by transmitter 4424 is optimized for a given working distance for reading and intermediate vision, thereby avoiding false switching by not over-enlarging the beam, Minimize the need for extra head movement.

  FIG. 46 is a side view of the range finder receiver of FIG. 44b according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 46, the receiver 4428 is selectively covered with a receiving lens 4430 on which a slit-like aperture 4432 is formed. The use of a receiving lens 4430 having a slit-like aperture 4432 reduces the receiving pattern to a substantially rectangular field of view, rather than the full field of view that is detected if the receiving lens 4430 is not fitted to the receiver 4428. In this embodiment, the receiving lens 4430 is made of a material such as an impermeable material that prevents the receiver 4428 from receiving any reflected beam except the beam that passes through the slit aperture 4432.

  The above embodiments having a transmit lens 4426 covering transmitter 4424 and a receive lens 4430 covering receiver 4428 are merely exemplary, and other implementations of manipulating the transmit beam of transmitter 4424 or the receive light cone of receiver 4428. It should be understood that the configuration may be used to further reduce false switching or to improve the performance of the optical device. For example, other methods of limiting the receiver's received light cone or received pattern include using other geometric apertures, variable shutters, lenses or devices that limit the passage of light rays on the receiver 4428. . It should also be understood that according to the present invention, the settings of the lenses on the transmitter and receiver are optional and any combination of the lenses may be provided. For example, in at least one further embodiment, the receiving lens 4430 used to selectively cover the receiver 4428 is optional. Similarly, in at least one further embodiment, the transmit lens 4426 used to selectively cover the transmitter 4424 is optional. In the exemplary embodiment described above, the need for additional head movement and the occurrence of false switching are both optional by increasing the width of the transmit beam produced by the rangefinder transmitter, It is minimized by processing how the reflected beam is applied to the rangefinder receiver.

  In another exemplary embodiment, the switch can be controlled by a small but fast movement of the user's head. This is accomplished by having other field of view detectors, such as a small microscope or micro accelerometer, in the lens frame vine. A small rapid shake or twist of the head triggers the microgyroscope or microaccelerometer and rotates the switch through its allowable set position to change the focus of the electroactive lens to the desired correction. For example, upon detecting movement with a micro gyroscope or micro accelerometer, the controller will power the observed field of view so that it can be interrogated by the rangefinder device to determine if vision correction is required. It may be programmed to give to the rangefinder device. Similarly, after a predetermined interval or time when head movement is not detected, the rangefinder device may be turned off. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, after detecting movement and using the rangefinder device, the rangefinder device may be turned on.

  In another exemplary embodiment, the user's head is tilted to determine whether it is tilted down or up at a predetermined angle above or below a posture that indicates someone looking straight ahead far away. Other field detectors such as switches may be used. For example, as an exemplary tilt switch, the controller is provided that closes the circuit that provides power to the rangefinder and / or controller only when the patient is looking up or down at a predetermined angle away from the horizon. Mercury switch. If the lens may be designed for long-distance vision correction in a non-powered state, in at least one embodiment, the range finder device may move downward or upward at a predetermined angle in a direction away from the horizon of the user's head. When tilted, the electro-active lens may be activated and configured to switch from long distance correction to another state (such as near or medium distance correction). Further, the user may use the additional requirement that an object be sensed at a short or medium distance for some predetermined time before the switch occurs. The tilt switch can also be used to set the logic level to high, and this logic level is ANDed with the logic level set by the range finder that indicates whether the object is near or intermediate. Gated.

  47a to 47c are side views of a wearer of an optical lens system according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 47a, the wearer of the optical lens system may adjust its head from a horizontal line to an upward tilt angle (θup) and from the horizontal line to a downward tilt angle (θdown). FIG. 47b shows a wearer with his head tilted downward at a downward tilt angle (θdown). FIG. 47c shows a wearer with his head tilted upward at an upward tilt angle (θup). In one exemplary embodiment, the tilt switch closes when the wearer's head moves up or down from the horizontal line by about 5 to 15 degrees, preferably about 10 degrees from the horizontal position (and Power the rangefinder device and / or the controller). In one further embodiment, the tilt switch can be closed when the wearer's head moves up or down from the horizontal line by about 15 to 30 degrees, preferably about 20 degrees from the horizontal position. .

  It should be appreciated that the above embodiment using a tilt switch may be optimized based on the borrower's needs or desires. For example, the wearer may choose to have deflection angles from different horizontal positions in the upward or downward direction that are required to close the switch. Thus, the angle for upward tilt to close the switch may be equal to the angle for downward tilt, or both of these angles can differ from each other by a few degrees. In addition, the tilt switch activates the rangefinder only when the wearer tilts his head downwards or when the wearer tilts his head upwards (or the rangefinder device and / or the controller). May be optimized only by providing power). The latter is unlikely because anyone typically tilts his head slightly to read.

  In another exemplary embodiment, the device utilizes a tilt switch to determine the tilt angle of the wearer's head. The downward or upward tilt angle may be sent to a controller that determines whether the tilt is greater than a predetermined angle. Thus, the controller can selectively power the rangefinder device when the tilt exceeds a tilt threshold associated with the tilt switch. Similarly, in further embodiments, micro gyroscopes or micro accelerometers can be used in a similar manner. For example, a micro gyroscope or micro accelerometer may produce an output that can be used by the controller to position the wearer's head and thus adjust the power to the rangefinder device.

  Yet another exemplary embodiment uses a combination of a micro gyroscope and a manual switch. In this embodiment, the microgyroscope is utilized for most reading and visual duties, 180 degrees below to react to the person's head tilt. Thus, when the person's head tilts, the microgyroscope sends a signal indicating the tilt angle of the head to the controller, which is then converted to increased focusing power depending on the severity of the tilt. Manual switches, which can be remote controlled, are used to override the microgyroscope for certain visual duties at 180 degrees or above, such as work at a computer.

  In yet another exemplary embodiment, a range finder and microgyroscope combination is utilized. The microgyroscope is used for near vision and other visual duties below 180 degrees, and the range finder is above 180 degrees, for example, a viewing distance of 121.9 cm (4 feet) or less. Used for. In a further embodiment, the rangefinder device may be used in combination with a tilt switch, microgyroscope or microaccelerometer to determine whether the electroactive lens should be switched. In these embodiments, the controller can be integrated into a monolithic switch, such as a tilt switch, microgyroscope or microaccelerometer, with the additional requirement that the rangefinder device must obtain a new viewing distance before switching occurs, for example. A logic level may be used for each of the integrated components.

  As a modification to a manual switch or rangefinder design to adjust the focusing power of the electroactive assembly, another exemplary embodiment measures eye distance to measure interpupillary distance and detect viewing distance. Using a vessel. Focusing on an object with a distant or near eye, the distance changes as the pupil converges or diverges. At least two light emitting diodes and at least two adjacent light sensors for detecting light reflected from the diode in a direction away from the eye are installed on the inner frame near the nose bridge. This device senses the position of the edge of the pupil of each eye and converts this position to the interpupillary distance to calculate the distance of the object from the plane of the user's eyes. In some embodiments, three or four light emitting diodes are used to track eye movement.

  In further embodiments, the various mechanisms described herein minimize false wear and excessive movement of the wearer to initiate a change to meet the needs of skilled craftsmen and wearers of the optical lens system. Any combination of these may be combined in any manner as desired. Thus, either the logic level or the switching mechanism may be modified to suit the specific needs of a given user.

  In addition to vision correction, the electroactive refraction matrix may be used to impart electrical color to the spectacle lens. By applying an appropriate voltage to the appropriate gel polymer or liquid crystal layer, the lens can have a color effect or sunglasses effect that somewhat changes the light transmission through the lens. This reduced light intensity gives the lens a “sunglasses” effect for the comfort of the user in a bright outdoor environment. Liquid crystal compositions and gel polymers that have a high polarization depending on the applied electric field are most attractive for this application.

  In some embodiments of the present invention, the present invention may be used where the temperature change is large enough to affect the refractive index of the electroactive layer. In that case, to compensate for this effect, a correction factor for all of the voltages supplied to the grid assembly must be added. A small thermistor, thermocouple or other temperature sensor provided in or on the lens and / or frame and connected to the power source senses the change in temperature. The controller converts these readings into voltage changes required to ensure a change in the refractive index of the electroactive material.

  However, in some embodiments, an electronic circuit is actually incorporated into the lens surface for the purpose of raising the temperature of the electroactive refractive matrix or layer. This is done to further reduce the refractive index of the electroactive layer and thus maximize the change in lens power. High temperatures can be used with or without an increase in voltage, thus providing the additional flexibility that the lens power can be controlled and varied by changing the refractive index. When utilizing temperature, it is desirable to be able to measure, feed back and control the applied temperature with deliberation.

  In the case of individually addressed electroactive region portions or full field grid arrays, many conductors may be required to multiplex a specific voltage from the controller to each grid element. In order to facilitate the engineering of these interconnects, the present invention positions the controller in the front portion of the spectacle frame, for example in the nose bridge region. Thus, the power supply positioned on the vine is connected to the controller by only two conductors through the vine front frame hinge. These conductors connecting the controller to the lens can be accommodated entirely in the front part of the frame.

  In some embodiments of the present invention, the glasses may have one or both eyeglass frame temples, some of which are easily removable. Each vine consists of two parts: a short part that remains connected to the hinge and the front part of the frame and a long part that is plugged into this part. The detachable part of the vine contains a power source (battery, fuel cell, etc.) and can be easily removed and reconnected to the fixed part of the vine. These removable vines can be recharged, for example, by installing them in a portable AC charging unit that charges by direct current, magnetic induction, or by other common recharging methods. In this way, the fully charged replacement vine is coupled to the eyeglasses, resulting in continuous long-term operation of the lens and aiming device. In fact, for this purpose, several repositioning vines may be put in a pocket or purse by the user.

  In many cases, the wearer needs a spherical correction of distance, near and / or medium distance vision. This provides a variant of a fully interconnected grid array lens that takes advantage of the spherical symmetry of the correction optics required. In this case, a special geometric grid consisting of concentric rings of electroactive areas may comprise partial areas or full-field lenses. These rings may be circular or non-circular, for example elliptical. This shape helps to simplify the interconnect circuit by significantly reducing the number of required electroactive regions that must be addressed separately by the conductor connections at different voltages. According to this design, astigmatism can be corrected by using a hybrid lens design. In this case, a conventional optical element may provide cylindrical and / or astigmatism correction, and a concentric ring electroactive refractive matrix may provide spherical far distance and / or near vision correction.

  This concentric ring or donut-shaped band embodiment provides great flexibility in adapting electroactive focusing to the needs of the wearer. Due to the symmetry of the circular band, many thinner bands can be created without increasing the complexity of the wiring and interconnects. For example, an electroactive lens comprised of an array of 4000 square pixels requires wiring to address all 4000 bands, and the need to cover a 35 mm diameter circular partial area is approximately 0. This results in a pixel pitch of 5 mm. On the other hand, an adaptable optical element composed of a concentric ring pattern with the same 0.5 mm pitch (or ring thickness) requires only 35 donut shaped bands, which greatly reduces wiring complexity. I am letting. Conversely, the pixel pitch (and resolution) can be reduced to only 0.1 mm, but only increases the number of bands (and interconnects) to 175. The high resolution of these bands results in greater wearer comfort. This is because the radial change in refractive index from band to band is smooth and gradual. of course. This design is limited to vision correction that is spherical in nature.

  In addition, the thickness of the donut ring can be tailored so that the concentric ring design places the highest resolution in the rounds that require it. For example, if this design requires layer wrapping, i.e., the advantage of light wave periodicity to achieve a large focusing power with a material with limited refractive index change, the circular subregion of the electroactive region An array can be designed with a narrow ring around it or a wide ring at its center. This judicious use of each donut shaped pixel yields the largest focusing power available in the number of bands utilized while minimizing the rash effects present in low resolution devices using layer wrapping.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, it is desirable to smooth the sharp change from the far field focus region to the near vision focus region in a hybrid lens using a partial electrical depletion region. This of course takes place at the circular boundary of the electroactive region. To accomplish this, the present invention is programmed to have a low power region for myopia around the electroactive region. For example, consider a hybrid concentric ring design with a 35 mm diameter electroactive region such that a fixed focal length lens provides long range correction and the electroactive region provides +2.50 additional power presbyopia correction. Instead of maintaining this power all the way to the periphery of the electroactive region, several donut shaped regions or “bands”, each having several addressable electroactive concentric ring bands, reduce power at a larger diameter. Programmed to have. For example, one embodiment may have a circle with a central diameter of +2.50 additional power during activation, and a donut-shaped band may be 26-29 mm with an additional power of +2.00. Other donut-shaped bands ranging from 29 to 32 mm in diameter with an added power of +1.5, these bands ranging in diameter from 32 to 35 with an added power of +1.0 Surrounded by a donut shaped band. This design is useful to give some users a happier wearing experience.

  When using eyeglass lenses, generally the top of the lens is used for viewing a long distance. To see the intermediate distance, it is approximately 2 to 3 mm above the intermediate line and 6 to 7 mm below the intermediate line, and 7 to 10 mm below the intermediate line to see the short distance.

  Aberrations occurring in the eye appear differently for each distance from the eye and need to be corrected differently. The distance of the object being viewed is directly related to the specific aberration correction required. Thus, the aberrations that result from the optical device of the eye require approximately the same correction for all far distances, approximately the same correction for all intermediate distances, and approximately the same correction for all near distances. Thus, according to the present invention, as the eyes and the line of sight of the eye move across the lens, as opposed to trying to adjust the electroactive lens grid by grid, three or four parts (far part, It is possible to adjust the electrical activity of the lens in order to correct certain aberrations of the eye in the middle part and the near part).

  FIG. 22 is a front view of an embodiment of the electroactive lens 2200. Within this lens 2200, various regions that provide different refraction corrections are defined. Below the intermediate line BB, several short distance correction areas 2210, 2220, each having a different correction power, are surrounded by a single intermediate distance correction area 2230. Although only two short distance correction areas 2210, 2220 are shown, any number of short distance correction areas can be provided. Similarly, any number of intermediate distance correction regions can be provided. Above the intermediate line BB, a long distance correction area 2240 is provided. These regions 2210, 2220, 2230 are activated, for example, in a programmed order to save power, or in a static on / off manner similar to the conventional trifocal type. When viewed from a long distance to a short distance, the lens 2200 can assist the focus of the wearer's eye by smoothing the change between different focal lengths in different regions. Thereby, the “image jump” phenomenon is eliminated or greatly reduced. This improvement is also provided in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 below.

  FIG. 23 is a front view of another electroactive lens 2300 embodiment. Within this lens 2300, various regions that provide different refractive corrections are defined. Below the intermediate line CC, a single short distance correction area 2310 is surrounded by a single intermediate distance correction area 2320. Above the intermediate line CC, a single long distance correction region 2330 is positioned.

  FIG. 24 is a front view of another electroactive lens 2400 embodiment. Within this lens 2400, various regions that provide different refractive corrections are defined. A single short distance correction area 2410 is surrounded by a single intermediate distance correction area 2420 surrounded by a single long distance correction area 2430.

  FIG. 25 is a front view of another electroactive lens 2500 embodiment. The lens 2500 includes a conventional lens element 2510, to which several all-field electroactive regions 2520, 2530, 2540, 2550 are attached, each of which is insulated. Layers 2525, 2535 and 2545 are separated from adjacent regions.

  FIG. 26 is a front view of another electroactive lens 2600 embodiment. The lens 2600 includes a conventional lens element 2610, to which a number of partial field electroactive regions 2620, 2630, 2640, 2650 are attached, each of which is insulated. Separated from adjacent regions by layers 2625, 2635, 2645. A framework region 2660 surrounds the electroactive regions 2620, 2630, 2640, 2650.

  Returning to the discussion of refractive electroactive lenses, the use of an electroactive refractive matrix adjacent to a glass, polymer or plastic substrate lens imprinted or etched in a different pattern to correct the refractive error. An active lens can be created. The surface of the substrate lens with the refractive imprint is in direct contact with the electroactive material. Thus, one side of the electroactive refractive matrix is also a refractive pattern that is a mirror image of the pattern on the lens substrate surface.

  This assembly always acts as a hybrid lens where the substrate lens typically provides a fixed correction power for long distance correction. The refractive index of the electroactive refractive matrix in the unactivated state is approximately the same as that of the substrate lens, and this difference should be 0.05 units or less. Thus, when the electroactive lens is not activated, the substrate lens and the electroactive refractive matrix have the same refractive index and the refractive pattern is powerless and does not provide correction (0.00 diopters). ). In this state, the power of the substrate lens is the only correction power.

  When the electroactive lens is activated, its refractive index changes and the refractive power of the refractive pattern is added to the substrate lens. For example, if the substrate lens has a power of −3.50 diopters and the electroactive refractive layer has a power of +2.00 diopters upon activation, the total power of the electroactive lens assembly is − 1.50 diopters. Thus, this electroactive lens allows for near vision or reading. In other embodiments, the electroactive refractive matrix in the activated state may have a refractive index balanced with the lens element.

  Electroactive layers using liquid crystals are birefringent. That is, these layers exhibit two different focal lengths in their unactivated state when exposed to unpolarized light. This double refraction has two solutions to solve the problem by producing a double or blurred image on the retina. The first solution requires the use of at least two electroactive layers. One of these layers is made with the electroactive molecules therein aligned in the length direction, and the other layer is made with the molecules oriented in the length direction, thus the two layers The molecular alignment in the layers is orthogonal to each other. In this way, the polarization of light is evenly concentrated by both eyes and all light is concentrated at the same focal length.

  This can be done by simply stacking two orthogonally aligned electroactive layers, or the lens center layer is a double-sided plate, i.e. a plate with the same refractive pattern etched on both sides. By design it can be achieved. In that case, the electroactive material is placed in layers on both sides of the center plate (assuming their alignment is orthogonal). A cover top layer is then placed over each electroactive refractive matrix to accommodate it. This results in a simpler design than superimposing two separate electroactive refractive layers on top of each other.

  Different modifications require the addition of cholesterol liquid crystals to the electroactive material to provide a large enantiomeric component. It has been found that a certain level of enantiomeric concentration removes the in-plane polarization sensitivity and obviates the need for two electroactive layers of pure nematic liquid crystal as a component in the electroactive material.

  Turning to the description of the materials used for the electroactive layer, the types of materials that can be used for the electroactive refractive matrix and lenses of the present invention and examples of specific electroactive materials are listed below. . In addition to the liquid crystal materials listed in Type I, each of these types of materials as polymer gels in general will be described.

Liquid crystals This class includes any liquid crystal film that forms a nematic, smectic or cholesteric layer having a long range orientation order that can be controlled by an electric field. Examples of nematic liquid crystals are pentylcyanobiphenol (5CB), (n-octoxy) -4-cyanobiphenol (8OCB). Other examples of liquid crystals are the compounds 4-cyano-4-n-alkylbiphenol, 4-n-pentyloxybiphenol, 4-cyano-4 ″ -n-alkyl-p-terphenol (n = 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9), and BDH (British Drug House) -commercial mixtures such as E7, E36, E46 and ZLI series manufactured by Merck.

Electro-optic polymer This type is described in Ch. Including molecules with asymmetric polarized conjugated p-electrons between donor and acceptor groups, such as those disclosed in Bosshard et al., “Organic Nonlinear Optical Materials” by Gordon and Bleach Publisher (Amsterdam, 1995) . E. It includes any transparent optical polymer material such as that disclosed in the "Polymer Physical Properties Handbook" by Mark American Institute (Wood Valley, New York, 1996). Examples of polymers are as follows: Polystyrene, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl carbazole, polyimide, and polysilane. Examples of chromophores are paranitriloaniline (PNA), disperse thread 1 (DR1), 3-methyl-4-methoxy-4'-nitrostilbene, diethylaminonitrostilbene (DANS), diethyl-thio-barbituric acid. .

  The electro-optic polymer is made by performing a) a lattice hardening method such as a guest / host method followed by b) conjugated incorporation of chromophores into the polymer (side and main chain) and / or c) crosslinking. be able to.

Polymer liquid crystals This class includes polymer liquid crystals (PLCs), sometimes referred to as liquid crystalline polymers, low molecular bulk liquid crystals, self-reinforcing polymers, in situ composites, and / or molecular composites. The PLC is an A.I. A. Edited by Colya and Elsevier. A copolymer having an arrangement that is simultaneously relatively rigid and flexible, such as that disclosed in Chapter 1 of “Liquid Crystalline Polymers from Structure to Use” by Brostow (New York / London, 1992). Examples of PLC are polymethacrylates and other similar compounds with 4-cyanophenylbenzoate side groups.

Polymer-dispersed liquid crystals This class includes polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) consisting of a dispersion of liquid crystal droplets in a polymer matrix. These materials can be used in several ways: (i) Nematic curvilinear matching phase (NCAP) by thermally induced layer separation (TIPS), solvent induced phase separation (SIPS), and tenth induced phase separation (PIPS). Therefore, it can be manufactured. Examples of PDLC are a mixture of liquid crystal E7 (BDH-Merck) and NOA65 (Norland Products), a mixture of E44 (BDH-Merck) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), E49 (BDH-Merck) and PMMA. The mixture is a mixture of monomeric dipentaerythrol hydroxyacrylate, liquid crystal E7, N-vinylpyrrolidone, N-phenylglycine, and dye rose bengal.

Polymer Stabilized Liquid Crystals This type includes polymer stabilized liquid crystals (PSLC), which are composed of liquid crystals in a polymer network and the polymer comprises less than 10% by weight of the liquid crystals. A photopolymerizable monomer is mixed with a liquid crystal and a UV polymerization initiator. After the liquid crystals are aligned, monomer polymerization is typically initiated by UV exposure, and the resulting polymer produces a network that stabilizes the liquid crystals. For examples of PSLC, see, for example, 5% of Journal of Society for Information Display, 1-5 (1997) C.I. M.M. Hudson et al., “Optical Studies of Anisotropic Networks in Polymer Stabilized Liquid Crystals”, J. Am. of Am. Chem. G. Soc. P. See “Photorefractive power in polymer-stabilized nematic liquid crystals” by Bäderlecht et al.

Self-Assembled Nonlinear Supramolecular Structure This type is an electro-optic asymmetric organic film that can be created using the following methods: polyelectrolyte deposition (polyanion / polycation) from aqueous solution and molecular beam epitaxy It includes a Langmuir brod get film obtained by performing a method and sequential analysis by a covalent bond reaction (for example, organic trichlorosilane-based self-assembled multilayer deposition) one after another. These techniques usually yield thin films having a thickness of less than about 1 mm.

  FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. 29 includes an outer periphery 2910, a lens surface 2920, a power source 2930, a battery bus 2940, a transparent conductor bus 2950, a controller 2960, a light emitting diode 2970, a light detector 2980, an electroactive refraction matrix. Or shown as receiving an optical lens 2900 having a region 2990. In this embodiment, the electroactive refractive matrix 2990 is housed in the cavity of the recess 2999 of the optical lens 2900.

  As can be seen, the optical lens system is self-contained and may be installed on a variety of supports including spectacle frames and phoropters. In use, the electroactive refractive matrix 2990 of the lens 2900 may be focused and controlled by the controller 2960 to improve the user's vision. The controller 2960 can receive power from a power source 2930 via a transparent conductor bus 2950 and can receive a data signal from a light detector 2980 via a transparent conductor 2950. The controller 2960 can control these components through these buses.

  The electroactive refraction matrix 2990, when functioning properly, refracts light through the matrix so that the wearer of the lens 2900 can see the converged image through the electroactive refraction matrix 2990. Since the optical lens system of FIG. 29 is self-contained, the optical lens 2900 may be fitted to various frames and other supports, but these frames and other supports are for this lens device. Specific support parts may not be accommodated.

  As described above, the light emitting diode 2970, the light detector 2980, the controller 2960, and the power source 2930 are each connected to each other and to the electroactive refraction matrix via various conductor bus bars. As can be seen, the power supply 2930 is directly connected to the controller 2960 via a transparent conductor bus 2950. This transparent conductor bus 2950 is primarily used to send power to the controller, which then selectively transmits light emitting diodes 2970, light detectors 2980 and electroactive refraction matrix 2990 as needed. It may be supplied. The transparent conductor bus 2950 in this embodiment is preferably transparent, but may be translucent or opaque in other embodiments.

  In order to help focus the electroactive refractive matrix 2990, the light emitting diode 2970 and the light detector 2980 may also cooperate with each other as a range finder to help focus the electroactive refractive matrix 2990. Good. For example, visible and invisible light are emitted from the light emitting diode 2970, and then the reflection of the emitted light is detected by the light detector 2980 and generates a signal indicating that the reflected light beam has been sensed. Upon receiving this signal, the controller 2960, which controls both of these operations, determines the distance for a particular object. Once this distance is known, the controller 2960 previously programmed with the user's appropriate optical compensation generates a signal that activates the electroactive refractive matrix 2990 so that the user looking through the optical lens 2900 can see the object. Or you can see the image more clearly.

  In this embodiment, electroactive refractive matrix 2990 is shown as a circle having a diameter of 35 mm, and optical lens 2900 is shown as a circle having a diameter of 70 mm and a center thickness of approximately 2 mm. However, in other embodiments, the optical lens 2900 and the electroactive refractive matrix 2990 may be configured in other standard and non-standard shapes and sizes. Nevertheless, in each of these other sizes and orientations, the position and size of electroactive refractive matrix 2990 allows the user of the device to easily view images and objects through a portion of the electroactive refractive matrix 2990 of the lens. Such a degree is preferable.

  Other components in the optical lens 2900 may be positioned at other positions in the optical lens 2900. However, it is preferred that any location selected for these components is as unobtrusive as possible to the user. In other words, these components are preferably positioned away from the user's main viewing path. These components are preferably as small and transparent as possible in order to further reduce the risk of disturbing the user's line of sight.

  In a preferred embodiment, the surface of electroactive refractive matrix 2990 may be flush or nearly flush with the surface of optical lens 2920. Moreover, the generatrix may be positioned on the lens along the radius of the lens protruding from the center point. By positioning the busbars in this manner, the lenses may be rotated within their support to align the busbars in their least disturbing orientation. However, as can be seen in FIG. 29, this preferred busbar design need not always be taken. In FIG. 29, the light detector 2980 and the light emitting diode 2970 are positioned on the non-radial bus 2950 rather than positioning all of the components along a single bus along the radius of the lens 2900. Nevertheless, if not all of the various components are preferably set along the radius of the lens to minimize their obstruction. Moreover, even if the lens is etched or framed to fit a particular frame, the individual components of the lens can be accessed, controlled or programmed from the edge of the lens as needed. It is also preferred that the busbar or other conductive material is accessible from the outer periphery of the lens. This accessibility includes direct exposure to the outside of the lens as well as being positioned near the surrounding surface and reachable by entering the lens.

  FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a lens apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Like the embodiment of FIG. 29, this embodiment shows a lens apparatus that may be used to correct or improve a user's refraction error. 30 includes a frame 3010, a transparent conductor bus 3050, a light emitting diode / range finder 3070, a nose pad 3080, a power supply 3030, a translucent controller 3060, an electroactive refraction matrix 3090, and an optical lens. 3000. As can be seen in FIG. 30, the controller 3060 is positioned along the transparent conductor bus 3050 between the electroactive refraction matrix 3090 and the power supply 3030. As can also be seen, the range finder 3070 is connected to the controller 3060 along different conductor bus bars.

  In this embodiment, the optical lens 3000 is attached and supported by a frame 3010. Moreover, the power supply 3030 is not provided on or in the optical lens 3000, but the power supply 3030 is provided on the nose pad 3080, and the nose pad 3080 is connected to the controller 3060 via the nose pad connector 3020. It is connected. An advantage of this configuration is that the power supply 3030 can be easily replaced or recharged as needed.

  FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another lens apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 31, the controller 3160, strap 3170, frame 3110, conductive bus 3150, electroactive refractive matrix 3190, optical lens 3100, frame stem or hollow lumen 3130 and signal conductor 3180 are labeled. Instead of providing the controller 3160 on or in the optical lens 3100 as shown in the previous embodiment, the controller 3160 is provided on the strap 3170. The controller 3160 is connected to the electroactive refraction matrix 3190 via signal conductors 3180 positioned within the hollow lumen frame stem 3130 of the frame 3110 and extending through the strap 3170 to the controller 3160. By installing the controller 3160 on the strap 3170, the user's prescription can be carried with the controller and strap by removing the strap 3170 and installing it in another frame to be worn by the user.

  FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a lens apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. This frame 3120, as well as the electroactive refraction matrix 3290, the optical lens 3200 and the internal frame signal conductor 3280 are all visible in FIG. In this embodiment, the frame 3210 can be any length along the length of the frame 3210 so that information and power are easily supplied to the components of the optical lens 3200 regardless of the orientation of the optical lens 3200 in the frame 3210. It accommodates an internal frame signal conductor 3280 that can be accessed from these locations. In other words, regardless of the position of the radial bus of the optical lens 3200, the radial bus can contact the inner frame signal lead 3280 and provide both power and information to control the electroactive refractive matrix 3290. it can. Section AA of FIG. 32 clearly shows these internal frame signal leads 3280. In another alternative embodiment, rather than having two internal frame signal conductors 3280, the frame itself is used as a conductor to facilitate the delivery of power and other information to the component. Only internal frame signal conductors may be provided in the frame. Furthermore, in other embodiments of the invention, more than two internal frame signal conductors may be used.

  Moreover, in other alternative embodiments, rather than having a single radial bus that connects the refractive matrix to the frame signal conductor, a conductive layer may be used instead. In this alternative embodiment, the conductive layer may cover all or only part of the lens. In a preferred embodiment, the conductive layer is transparent and covers the entire lens to minimize the distortion associated with its boundary. If this layer is used, the number of access points along the outer periphery of the lens may be increased by extending the layer to the outer periphery at more than one position. Moreover, this layer may be divided into individual subregions so as to provide a plurality of passages between the edge of the lens and the components within the lens.

  FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 33, an optical lens 3330 is seen with an electroactive refractive matrix 3390 and an optical toroid 3320. In this embodiment, refractive matrix 3390 is positioned within optical toroid 3320 and then attached to the back surface of optical lens 3330. In doing so, the optical toroid 3320 forms a recess in the back surface of the optical lens 3330 to support, hold, or house the electroactive refractive matrix 3390. Once assembled, the front surface of the optical lens 3330 can be molded, surface cast molded, or laminated to further configure the optical lens system for the user's specific refraction and optical needs. Or may be processed. Similar to the above embodiment, the electroactive refractive matrix 3390 can be activated and controlled to improve the user's vision.

  FIG. 34 is another exploded view of another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 34, optical lens 3400, electroactive refractive matrix 3490 and carrier 3480 are all seen. Rather than using a toroid as in the previous embodiment to rarely add to orient the electroactive refractive matrix in the engineering lens, the electroactive refractive matrix 3490 in this embodiment is optically coupled via a carrier 3480. Connected to the lens. Similarly, other components 3470 required to support the electroactive refractive matrix 3490 may also be connected to the carrier 3480. In doing so, these components 3470 and electroactive refractive matrix 3490 can be easily attached to various optical lenses. Further, the carrier 3480, its components 3470 and the electroactive refractive matrix 3490 are each covered with other materials or substances to protect them from damage before or after connection to the lens.

  The carrier 3480 may be made of a number of possible materials including polymer mesh membranes, flexible plastics, ceramics, glass, and any composite of other materials. As a result, the carrier 3480 is flexible and rigid depending on the material composition. In each case, it is preferred that the carrier 3480 be transparent, but in other embodiments it may be colored or translucent, and impart other desired properties to the lens 3400. Depending on the type of material making up the carrier 3480, various manufacturing methods may be used to form the recesses or dents in which the carrier is provided, including micro-cutting lenses and wet and dry etching. These techniques are used to manufacture the carrier itself, including etching one or both sides of the carrier to produce a diffraction pattern to correct any aberrations caused by the carrier. May be.

  Figures 35a to 35e illustrate an assembly sequence that may be used in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 35a, the wearer's frame 3500 and eyes 3570 are clearly visible. Also seen in FIG. 35b is an electroactive refractive matrix 3580, a radial generatrix 3540 and various rotation and position arrows 3510, 3520, 3530 of the optical lens 3505. FIG. 35c shows the optical lens system with its radial generatrix 3540 in the 9 o'clock position. FIG. 35d shows the same optical lens system of FIG. 35c after it has been trimmed and part of the perimeter or area has been removed in preparation for attachment to the frame. FIG. 35e shows an electroactive refractive matrix centered in the user's eye in the first region and a radial bus 3540 positioned between the user's eye and the frame 3500 in the peripheral region of the lens. A completed lens device having a power source 3590 is shown. The combined surrounding region and first region are made up of the entire lens material in this embodiment. However, in other embodiments, these areas may consist of a portion of the overall lens material.

  An engineer assembling this lens apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may proceed as follows. In the first step shown in FIG. 35a, the frame 3500 on which the electroactive lens is to be fitted is placed in front of the user to position the center of the user's eyes 3570 with respect to the frame. After positioning the center of the user's eye 3570 relative to the frame, when the user wears the frame, the electroactive lens is rotated so that the electroactive refractive matrix 3580 is centered on the user's eye 3570; Position, trim and cut. After fringing and cutting the lens to properly position the electroactive refractive matrix 3580 above the user's eye, a power supply or other component is then snapped onto the lens busbar 3540 and the lens is shown in FIG. 35c. Attach to the frame as shown. This snap-fit method pushes lead wires from each of the components through the surface of the lens into the bus bar to attach the components to the lens and connect them to each other and to other components.

  Although the electroactive lens device and electroactive matrix are described as centering in front of or above the user's eye, including both the lens and electroactive matrix being offset from the center of the user's eye It may be installed in other orientations in the user's field of view. Moreover, due to the myriad shapes and sizes of eyewear frames available, the lens may be trimmed, thereby changing its dimensions, so the lens can be engineered to suit different frames and individual users. May be assembled.

  In addition to simply using the electroactive refractive matrix to correct the user's vision, one or both surfaces of the lens may be surface cast to further compensate for the user's refractive error, or You may grind. Similarly, lens surfaces may be laminated in order to compensate for user optical aberrations.

  In this and other embodiments, the technician may use standard lens stock to assemble the device. These lens materials range from 30 mm to 80 mm, and most common sizes are 60 mm, 65 mm, 70 mm, 72 mm and 75 mm. These lens blanks may be connected to an electroactive matrix provided on the carrier before or sometimes during the assembly process.

  Figures 36a to 36e show another embodiment of the present invention showing another assembly sequence, in this embodiment, rather than having a rangefinder and power supply positioned on the lens, these configurations. The parts are actually connected to the frame itself. FIGS. 36a-e show the frame 3600, the user's eye 3670, the orientation and rotation arrows 3610, 3620, 3630, the electroactive refractive matrix 3680 of the lens 3605, and the transparent component bus 3640. FIG. As in the previous embodiment, the user's eyes are first positioned in the frame. The lens is then rotated relative to the user's eye so that the electroactive refractive matrix 3680 is properly positioned in front of the user's eye. The lens is then shaped as necessary, ground and inserted into the frame. Simultaneously with this insertion, the rangefinder, battery and other components 3690 are connected to the lens.

  Figures 37a to 37f show another alternative embodiment of the present invention. Throughout these figures, transparent busbar 3740, electroactive refractive matrix 3780, user's eye 3770, rotating arrow 3710, rangefinder or controller and power supply 3730 and multi-conductor wire 3720 are shown. In this alternative embodiment, in addition to completing the steps described in the other two assembly embodiments, the other steps shown in FIG. 37e are completed. This step shown in FIG. 37e involves wrapping the outer periphery of the lens with a multi-conductor washer or wire system 3720. This wire system 3720 may be used to send signals and power to and from the electroactive refractive matrix 3780 and other components. The actual signal wire in the multiconductor washer 3720 includes ITO (Iridium Tin Oxide) material as well as gold, silver, copper, or any other suitable conductor.

  FIG. 38 is an exploded isometric view of an integrated controller and range finder that may be used with the present invention. Rather than having a controller and range finder connected to each other via a bus as shown in other embodiments, in this embodiment the range finder consisting of a light detector 3810 and an infrared light emitting diode 3820 is 3830 is directly connected. The entire unit may then be connected to a frame or lens as described in the previous embodiment. Although 1.5 mm and 5 mm dimensions are shown in FIG. 38, other dimensions and shapes may be used.

  FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view of an integrated controller and power supply according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the controller 3930 is directly connected to the power source 3940.

  FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view of an integrated power source 4040, controller 4030, and range finder according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 40, the light detector 4010 and the light emitting diode 4020 (range finder) are connected to a controller 4030, which is connected to a power source 4040. As in the previous embodiment, the dimensions shown in this case (3.5 mm and 6.5 mm) are exemplary and other dimensions may be used.

  41 to 43 are perspective views of lens devices according to various other embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 41 shows a lens apparatus using a controller and range finder connected to an electroactive refraction matrix 4140 and a power source 4110 via a power conductor bus 4120. In comparison, FIG. 42 shows a combined controller and power supply 4240 connected to a light emitting diode 4220 and a light detector 4210 (range finder) and an electroactive refraction matrix 4230 via a transparent conductor bus 4250. . FIG. 43 illustrates the positioning of the combined power supply, controller and range finder 4320 positioned along a radially transparent conductor bus 4330 connected to the electroactive refractive region 4310. In each of these three figures, various dimensions and diameters are shown. It should be understood that these dimensions and diameters are merely exemplary and various other dimensions and diameters may be used.

  It should also be appreciated that the various embodiments of the present invention have various applications in the fields of photonics and telecommunications. For example, the electroactive devices described herein may be utilized to direct and / or focus light beams, laser light that have applications in optical computer processing such as optical communication and optical switching and data storage. Furthermore, the electroactive devices described herein may be utilized by complex imaging devices to position optical images in a three-dimensional space.

  FIG. 48 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 48, the electroactive optical device 4800 includes a first electroactive element 4820, a second electroactive element 4830, a third electroactive element 4840, and a rangefinder device 4850. ing. As shown in FIG. 48, an image 4810 is represented by an arrow at the first location in the three-dimensional space.

  This image may be, for example, a light beam, a laser beam or an optical real or virtual image. Accordingly, the electroactive optical device 4800 may be utilized to focus the image 4810 at a predetermined location in three-dimensional space. The first electroactive element 4820 may be used to move the image 4810 along the x-axis. This can be accomplished by outputting an appropriate series of signals to the first electroactive element 4820 to produce a horizontal prism at the first electroactive element 4820. A second electroactive element 4830 results in a vertical prism similar to electroactive element 4820 and may be used to move image 4810 along the y-axis. The third electroactive element 4840 focuses the image 4810 along the z-axis by adjusting the optical power of the device 4800 to a more positive or more negative optical power, depending on the desired position of the final image. May be used to Further, the rangefinder device 4850 may be utilized to detect a target in the image field where the user wishes to focus the final image, eg, the position of the detector. In that case, the rangefinder device 4850 determines the degree of focus required for the third electroactive element 4840 to achieve the final image 4860 desired by the user at a predetermined location in the three-dimensional space. It should be appreciated that the rangefinder device 4850 may be in the form of the rangefinder embodiment described above, including an integrated power supply, controller, and rangefinder device.

  FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 49, the electroactive optical device 4900 includes a first electroactive element 4920, a second electroactive element 4930, and a rangefinder device 4950. As shown in FIG. 49, an image 4910 is represented by an arrow at the first location in the three-dimensional space. This image may be, for example, a light beam, a laser beam or an optical real or virtual image. Accordingly, the electroactive optical device 4900 may be used to focus the image 4910 at a predetermined location in a three-dimensional space. The first electroactive element 4920 may be used to move the image 4910 along both the x-axis and the y-axis. This may be accomplished by outputting an appropriate series of signals to the first electroactive element 4920 to produce horizontal and vertical prisms on the first electroactive element 4920. In this embodiment, the prisms are generated in both horizontal and vertical components, as opposed to simply horizontal or simply vertical prisms. The second electroactive element 4930 focuses the image 4910 along the z-axis by adjusting the optical power of the device 4900 to a more positive or more negative optical power, depending on the desired position of the final image. May be used to Further, the rangefinder device 4950 may be utilized to detect a target in the image field where the user wishes to focus the final image, eg, the position of the detector. In this case, the rangefinder device 4950 determines the degree of convergence required for the second electroactive element 4930 to achieve the final image 4960 desired by the user at a predetermined location in the three-dimensional space. It should be appreciated that the rangefinder device 4950 may be in the form of the rangefinder embodiment described above, including an integrated power supply, controller, and rangefinder device.

  FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 50, the electroactive optical device 5000 includes a first electroactive element 5020 and a range finder device 5050. In FIG. 50, an image 5010 is represented by an arrow at a first location in the three-dimensional space. This image may be, for example, a light beam, a laser beam or an optical real or virtual image. Accordingly, the electroactive optical device 5000 may be used to focus the image 5010 at a predetermined location in a three-dimensional space. The first electroactive element 5020 may be used to move the image 5010 along both the x-axis and the y-axis. This may be accomplished by outputting a suitable series of signals to the first electroactive element 4920 to produce a horizontal and vertical prism on the first electroactive element 5020. In this embodiment, the prisms are generated in both horizontal and vertical components, as opposed to simply horizontal or simply vertical prisms. In addition, the first electroactive element 5020 adjusts the image 5010 along the z-axis by adjusting the optical power of the device 5000 to a more positive or more negative optical power, depending on the desired position of the final image. May be used for focusing. Further, the rangefinder device 5050 may be utilized to detect a target in the image field where the user wishes to focus the final image, eg, the position of the detector. In that case, the rangefinder device 5050 determines the degree of focus required for the first electroactive element 5020 to achieve the final image 5060 desired by the user at a predetermined location in the three-dimensional space. Thus, the optical device 5000 may produce an array with fixed angle prisms and having the same optical characteristics as an optical lens having the desired spherical power. It should be understood that the rangefinder device 5050 may be in the form of the rangefinder embodiment described above, including an integrated power supply, controller, and rangefinder device.

  FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 51, the electroactive optical device 5100 includes a first element 5120, a second electroactive element 5130, and a range finder device 5150. Also, as shown in FIG. 51, an image 5110 is represented by an arrow at the first location in the three-dimensional space. This image may be, for example, a light beam, a laser beam or an optical real or virtual image. Accordingly, the electroactive optical device 5100 may be used to focus the image 5110 at a predetermined location in a three-dimensional space. The first electroactive element 5120 may be used to select an image 5110, ie a particular wavelength of light from the beam. This can be accomplished using static monochromatic filters or mechanical or electrical switching color filters. The second electroactive element 5130 may be used to move the image 5110 along both the z-axis and the y-axis. This can be accomplished by outputting an appropriate series of signals to the second electroactive element 5130 to produce a horizontal and vertical prism on the second electroactive element 5130. In this embodiment, the prisms are generated in both horizontal and vertical components, as opposed to simply horizontal or simply vertical prisms. The second electroactive element 5130 focuses the image 5110 along the z-axis by adjusting the optical power of the device 5100 to a more positive or more negative optical power, depending on the desired position of the final image. May be used to Accordingly, the rangefinder device 5150 may be utilized to detect a target in the image field where the user wishes to focus the final image, eg, the position of the detector. In that case, the rangefinder device 5150 determines the degree of convergence required for the second electroactive element 5130 to achieve the final image 5160 desired by the user at a predetermined location in the three-dimensional space. Thus, the optical device 5100 produces an array with fixed angle prisms and having the same optical characteristics as an optical lens having the desired spherical power. It should be understood that the range finder device 5150 may be in the form of the range finder embodiment described above, including an integrated power supply, controller, and range finder device.

  FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 52, the electroactive optical device 5200 includes a first element 5220, a second electroactive element 5230, and a range finder device 5250. Also, as shown in FIG. 52, an image 5210 is represented by an arrow at the first location in the three-dimensional space. This image may be, for example, a light beam, a laser beam or an optical real or virtual image. Accordingly, the electroactive optical device 5200 may be used to focus the image 5210 at a predetermined location in a three-dimensional space. The first element 5220 may be a fixed lens used to make large or global adjustments in the final image position along the z-axis. The second electroactive element 5230 may be used to move the image 5210 along both the x-axis and the y-axis. This may be accomplished by outputting a suitable series of signals to the second electroactive element 5230 to produce a horizontal and vertical prism on the second electroactive element 5230. In this embodiment, the prisms are generated in both horizontal and vertical components, as opposed to simply horizontal or simply vertical prisms. The second electroactive element 5230 can adjust the optical power of the device 5200 in combination with the first element 5220 to a more positive or more negative optical power, depending on the desired position of the final image. , May be used to focus the image 5210 along the z-axis. Accordingly, the rangefinder device 5250 may be utilized to detect a target in the image field where the user wishes to focus the final image, eg, the position of the detector. In that case, the range finder device 5250 determines the degree of convergence required for the second electroactive element 5230 in combination with the first element 5220 and is desired by the user at a predetermined location in the three-dimensional space. A final image 5260 is achieved. Thus, the optical device 5200 produces an array with fixed angle prisms and having the same optical properties as an optical lens having the desired spherical power. It should be understood that the rangefinder device 5250 may be in the form of the rangefinder embodiment described above, including an integrated power source, controller, and rangefinder device. Furthermore, while a fixed lens for use in adjusting the final image focal length has been described above with reference to FIG. 52, a fixed lens may be used to guide or focus an optical image in three dimensions. It should be understood that it may be used with any of the aforementioned electroactive optical devices. For example, the various embodiments described above can be used in any image formation designed to record optical images, such as digital cameras or conventional cameras, video recorders and other devices for recording optical images. Can be used in the device.

  While various embodiments of the invention have been discussed above, other embodiments within the spirit and scope of the invention are also possible. For example, in addition to the aforementioned components, to track the movement of the user's eyes both when focusing on the electroactive refractive matrix and when performing various other functions and services for the user The eye tracker may be attached to the lens. Furthermore, although the combined LED and light detector has been described as a range finder, other components may be used to complete this function.

1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive phoropter / refractor device 100. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of another electroactive phoropter / refractor device 200 embodiment. It is a flowchart of the conventional distribution execution order 300. FIG. FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a distribution method 400. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of electroactive eyewear. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a prescription method 600. FIG. 2 is a front view of an embodiment of a hybrid electroactive eyeglass lens 700. FIG. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a hybrid electroactive eyeglass lens 700 taken along section line AA of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 900 taken along section line ZZ in FIG. 5. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens device 1000. FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a refractive electroactive lens 1100 taken along section line ZZ in FIG. 2 is a front view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 1200. FIG. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the electroactive lens 1200 of FIG. 12 taken along section line Q-Q. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a tracking device 1400. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens device 1500. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens device 1600. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 1700. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 1800. FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive refractive matrix. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 2000. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of electroactive eyewear 2100. FIG. FIG. 10 is a front view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 2200. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 2300. FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 2400. FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of electroactive lens 2500 taken along section line ZZ in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 2600 taken along section line ZZ in FIG. 5. FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a distribution method 2700. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electroactive lens 2800. FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an optical lens system according to another embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the assembly process completed by other another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an integrated chip range finder and integrated control according to another embodiment of the present invention. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an integrated controller battery and an integrated controller according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. It is a disassembled perspective view of the integrated controller range finder by other another embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the optical lens by another another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an optical lens system according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an integrated power source, controller, and range finder according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 44b is a side cross-sectional view of the integrated power supply, controller, and range finder of FIG. 44a along ZZ ′ according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 44 is a side view of the rangefinder transmitter of FIG. 44b according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 44 is a side view of the range finder receiver of FIG. 44b according to one embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a side view of a wearer of an optical lens system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a side view of a wearer of an optical lens system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a side view of a wearer of an optical lens system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electroactive optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

Claims (63)

An electroactive lens;
An optical lens system comprising: a controller coupled to the electroactive lens and configured to adjust a focal length of at least a part of the electroactive lens based on a signal from a visual field detector. The visibility detector further comprises:
The optical lens system according to claim 1, further comprising a range finder device. The range finder device further includes:
A transmitter configured to generate a first beam of invisible light to intersect the sensing object;
The optical lens system of claim 2, comprising: a receiver configured to detect a second beam of invisible light reflected from the sensing object.   The optical lens system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to determine a viewing distance of the sensing object based on signals received from the transmitter and receiver. The range finder device further includes:
4. The optical lens system of claim 3, comprising a first device for processing a first beam generated by the transmitter. The range finder device further includes:
The optical lens system according to claim 3, further comprising a diverging lens that selectively covers the transmitter. The range finder device further includes:
The optical lens system according to claim 3, further comprising a second device that processes a received light cone received by the receiver. The range finder device further includes:
The optical lens system according to claim 3, further comprising a receiving lens that selectively covers the receiver, the receiving lens being configured to adjust a received light cone received by the receiver.   The optical lens system according to claim 8, wherein the receiving lens is made of an opaque material.   The optical lens system according to claim 8, wherein the receiving lens has a slit-shaped aperture.   The optical lens system according to claim 10, wherein the slit-like aperture is substantially rectangular.   The optical lens system according to claim 3, wherein the transmitter is a laser diode.   The optical lens system according to claim 3, wherein the transmitter is an LED.   The optical lens system according to claim 3, wherein the transmitter and the receiver are both connected to a power source. The visibility detector further comprises:
The optical lens system according to claim 3, further comprising a tilt switch for use in combination with the range finder device.   The optical lens system according to claim 1, further comprising a power source connected to the controller and the visual field detector.   The controller adjusts a focal length of at least a portion of the electroactive lens by adjusting a voltage applied to at least a portion of the electroactive lens based on a viewing distance determined by the visual field detector. The optical lens system according to claim 1, which is configured as follows. The visibility detector further comprises:
The optical lens system according to claim 1, further comprising a tilt switch. A rangefinder device for use with a controller in an optical device,
A transmitter configured to produce a first beam of invisible light to intersect a sensing object;
A receiver configured to detect a second beam of invisible light reflected from the sensing object, the controller viewing the sensing object based on signals received from the transmitter and receiver. A rangefinder device configured to determine the distance.   The rangefinder apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a diverging lens that selectively covers the transmitter.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 19, further comprising a converging lens that selectively covers the receiver, wherein the converging lens is configured to adjust a received light cone received by the receiver.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the receiving lens is made of an opaque material.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the receiving lens has a slit-shaped aperture.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the slit-like aperture is substantially rectangular.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the transmitter is a laser diode.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the transmitter is an LED.   The range finder apparatus according to claim 19, wherein both the transmitter and the receiver are connected to a power source. An electroactive lens;
A controller connected to the electroactive lens and configured to adjust a voltage applied to at least a portion of the electroactive lens, the voltage of the glasses defined by the visual field detector Electro-optic glasses associated with an adjusted focal length for the electro-active lens based on viewing distance. The visibility detector further comprises:
The spectacles of Claim 28 provided with the range finder apparatus. The range finder device further includes:
A transmitter configured to produce a first beam of invisible light to intersect a sensed object;
30. The spectacles of claim 29, comprising: a receiver configured to detect a second beam of invisible light reflected from the sensing object.   31. The spectacles of claim 30, wherein the controller is configured to determine a viewing distance of a sensing object based on signals received from the transmitter and receiver. The range finder device further includes:
31. Eyeglasses according to claim 30, comprising a first device for processing a first beam produced by the transmitter. The range finder device further includes:
31. The spectacles of claim 30, comprising a diverging lens that selectively covers the transmitter. The range finder device further includes:
31. The spectacles of claim 30, comprising a second device for processing a received light cone received by the receiver. The range finder device further includes:
31. The spectacles of claim 30, comprising a receiving lens that selectively covers the receiver, the receiving lens being configured to adjust a received light cone received by the receiver.   36. The spectacles according to claim 35, wherein the receiving lens is made of an opaque material.   36. The spectacles according to claim 35, wherein the receiving lens has a slit-shaped aperture.   38. The spectacles of claim 37, wherein the slit aperture is substantially rectangular.   The spectacles according to claim 30, wherein the transmitter is a laser diode.   The spectacles according to claim 30, wherein the transmitter is an LED. The visibility detector further comprises:
30. Eyeglasses according to claim 29, comprising a tilt switch for use in combination with the range finder device.   29. The spectacles of claim 28, further comprising a power source connected to the controller and a visibility detector.   The controller adjusts the focal length of at least a portion of the electroactive lens by adjusting a voltage applied to at least a portion of the electroactive lens based on a viewing distance determined by the visibility detector. The eyeglasses according to claim 28, which is configured as follows. The visibility detector further comprises:
29. The apparatus of claim 28, comprising a tilt switch. Determining a viewing distance of an object sensed through an electroactive lens using a vision detector;
Adjusting the focal length of the first portion of the electroactive lens based on the viewing distance. Adjusting the focal length further comprises:
46. The method of claim 45, comprising applying a voltage to the first portion of the electroactive lens, the voltage being associated with a desired optical power associated with the viewing distance. The visibility detector further comprises:
46. The method of claim 45, comprising a range finder device. The range finder device further includes:
A transmitter configured to produce a first beam of invisible light to intersect a sensed object;
48. The method of claim 47, comprising: a receiver configured to detect a second beam of invisible light reflected from the sensing object.   49. The method of claim 48, wherein the controller is configured to determine a viewing distance of a sensing object based on signals received from the transmitter and receiver. The range finder device further includes:
49. The method of claim 48, comprising a first apparatus for processing a first beam produced by the transmitter. The range finder device further includes:
49. The method of claim 48, comprising a diverging lens that selectively covers the transmitter. The range finder device further includes:
49. The method of claim 48, comprising a second device for processing a received light cone received by the receiver. The range finder device further includes:
49. The method of claim 48, comprising a receiving lens that selectively covers the receiver, the receiving lens being configured to adjust a received light cone received by the receiver.   54. The method of claim 53, wherein the receiving lens is comprised of an opaque material.   54. The method of claim 53, wherein the receiving lens has a slit aperture.   56. The method of claim 55, wherein the slit aperture is substantially rectangular.   49. The method of claim 48, wherein the transmitter is a laser diode.   49. The method of claim 48, wherein the transmitter is an LED. The visibility detector further comprises:
48. The method of claim 47, comprising a tilt switch for use in combination with the range finder device.   46. The method of claim 45, further comprising a power source connected to the controller and visibility detector.   The controller adjusts the focal length of at least a portion of the electroactive lens by adjusting a voltage applied to at least a portion of the electroactive lens based on a viewing distance determined by the visibility detector. 46. The method of claim 45, wherein The visibility detector further comprises:
46. The method of claim 45, comprising a tilt switch. A method of using an electroactive lens device to position an optical image in three dimensions along an optical axis,
Moving an optical image in a horizontal direction on a first plane orthogonal to the optical axis using a first electroactive element;
Using a second electroactive element to move an optical image in a vertical direction on a first plane perpendicular to the optical axis;
Determining a first distance of the optical image along the optical axis using a visual field detector;
Analyzing the first distance to determine an optical power adjustment for focusing the optical image;
Adjusting the optical power of the third element by adjusting the optical power, and using the electroactive lens device.

Images