U.S. patent application number 10/101647 was filed with the patent office on 2002-08-01 for artificial lens including a lens system having eccentric axes for use in an eye having an enlarged pupil and method.
Invention is credited to Herrick, Robert S..
Application Number | 20020101564 10/101647 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26997516 |
Filed Date | 2002-08-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020101564 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Herrick, Robert S. |
August 1, 2002 |
Artificial lens including a lens system having eccentric axes for
use in an eye having an enlarged pupil and method
Abstract
An artificial lens including a lens system having eccentric axes
for in an eye having a macula and an enlarged natural pupil is
shown. The artificial lens comprises a first optical lens system
and a second optical lens system. The principal axis of each
optical lens system is eccentric to each other and the distance
between each principal axis is selected to enable the first optical
lens system and the second optical lens system to be operable
within the enlarged pupil. The lens system of the artificial lens
system directs light rays from each image of each lens of the first
optical lens system and second optical lens system onto a fovea
centralis of the macula of an eye. In the preferred embodiment, a
prism having a preselected diopter power is positioned on a
selected surface of one of the first optical lens system and second
optical lens system for directing light rays from an object onto a
fovea centralis of the macula of an eye. A contact lens having an
eccentric optical system is also shown.
Inventors: |
Herrick, Robert S.; (Rialto,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Daniel J. Meaney, Jr.
Post Office Box 22307
Santa Barbara
CA
93121
US
|
Family ID: |
26997516 |
Appl. No.: |
10/101647 |
Filed: |
March 19, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10101647 |
Mar 19, 2002 |
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09123588 |
Jul 28, 1998 |
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6357875 |
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09123588 |
Jul 28, 1998 |
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08854162 |
May 9, 1997 |
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5806530 |
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08854162 |
May 9, 1997 |
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08352381 |
Dec 8, 1994 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
351/159.17 ;
623/6.26; 623/6.33; 623/6.34 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2/1618 20130101;
A61F 2/1648 20130101; A61F 2/1613 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
351/161 ;
623/6.34; 623/6.33; 623/6.26 |
International
Class: |
A61F 002/16; G02C
007/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An artificial lens system for producing multiple images of an
object for an eye having a natural pupil and a macula, said
artificial lens system comprising at least two lenses which are
supported in an eye so as to be situated eccentrically from one
another and wherein one of said at least one two lenses is adapted
to be positioned in the natural pupil and another of said two
lenses is adapted to be positioned in an opening formed in the
natural pupil such that an optical axis of the one lens is
eccentric to an optical axis of another lens for directing light
rays from images respectively produced by said two lenses lenses
onto the macular of an eye.
2. The artificial lens system of claim 1 wherein said at least two
lenses each have a proximal edge which are positioned adjacent to
each other and wherein one of said at least two lenses includes a
first prism.
3. The artificial lens system of claim 2 wherein another of said at
least two lenses includes a second prism.
4. The artificial lens system of claim 1 wherein said at least two
lens each have a proximal edge which are positioned adjacent to
each other and further comprising a first prism having a base and a
wedge-shaped edge and wherein said first prism is positioned with
its wedge-shaped edge located adjacent the proximal edge of said
one of said at least two lenses.
5. The artificial lens system of claim 4 comprising a second prism
having a base and a wedge-shaped edge and wherein said second prism
is positioned with its wedge-shaped edge located adjacent the
proximal edge of said another of said at least two lenses.
6. The artificial lens system of claim 1 wherein the natural pupil
has a known geometrical dimension and wherein distance between each
principal axis is selected to be about at least equal to the known
geometrical dimension..
7. The artificial lens system of claim 6 the artificial lens is
adapted to produce disparate near and distant macular images.
8. An artificial lens adapted for use in an eye having a macula and
an opening formed in a natural pupil comprising a first optical
lens system and a second optical lens system wherein the principal
axis of each optical lens system is eccentric to each other and the
distance between each principal axis is selected to enable at least
one of the first optical lens system and a second optical lens
system to be situated within an opening formed in a natural pupil
for directing light rays from each image of each lens onto a macula
of an eye.
9. The artificial lens of claim 8 wherein the natural pupil has a
known geometrical dimension and wherein distance between each
principal axis is selected to be about at least equal to the known
geometrical dimension.
10. The artificial lens of claim 8 wherein the artificial lens is
adapted to produce disparate near and distant macular images.
11. The artificial lens of claim 8 wherein the first optical lens
system includes a first lens having a predetermined diopter power
for receiving light rays from a near object.
12. The artificial lens of claim 11 wherein said first lens
includes a first prism having a preselected diopter power, said
first prism being positioned on a selected surface of said first
lens for directing a portion of light rays from the near object
onto a macula of an eye and the light rays of a different object
superior of the macula.
13. The artificial lens of claim 12 wherein said second optical
lens system includes a second lens and wherein said first lens and
said second lens each have has a proximal edge and wherein said
first prism has a base and a wedge-shaped edge and wherein said
first prism is positioned with said wedge-shaped edge located
adjacent the proximal edge of said first lens.
14. The artificial lens of claim 13 wherein said second lens system
includes a second prism and wherein said second prism has a base
and a wedge-shaped edge and wherein said second prism is positioned
with said wedge shaped edge located adjacent the proximal edge of
said second lens.
15. The artificial lens of claim 8 wherein said artificial lens
includes a first lens having a predetermined diopter power for
receiving and directing light rays from an object onto a macula of
an eye; and a second lens having a predetermined diopter power
positioned inferior of said first lens for receiving and directing
light rays from the same object onto a macula of an eye.
16. The artificial lens of claim 15 further including a prism
having a predetermined diopter power, said prism being positioned
on a selected surface of said first lens for directing selected
paracentral light rays from a near object onto a macula of an eye
and central rays directed superior to the macula.
17. The artificial lens of claim 16 further including a second
prism having a predetermined diopter power, said second prism being
positioned on a selected surface of said second lens for directing
selected paracentral light rays from a distant object onto a macula
of an eye with the central light rays inferior to the macula.
18. The artificial lens of claim 8 comprising a first extended
objective optical lens for receiving and passing light rays from at
least one of a near object and distant object.
19. The artificial lens of claim 18 further comprising a second
extended objective optical lens for receiving and passing light
rays from the other of a near object and a distant object.
20. The artificial lens system of claim 18 wherein said extended
objective optical lens has one surface in the form of a wide angle
convex lens and an opposed surface in the form of a posterior end,
said artificial lens further comprising a prism having a selected
diopter power, said prism being positioned on the posterior end of
said extended objective optical lens for directing paracentral
light rays from at least one of a near object and far object onto a
macula of an eye.
21. The artificial lens system of claim 19 wherein each of said
first extended objective optical lens and said second extended
objective optical lens has a wide angle convex surface and an
opposed posterior end, said artificial lens further comprising a
first prism having a preselected diopter power, said first prism
being positioned on the posterior end of said first extended
objective optical lens for directing paracentral light rays from a
near object onto the macula, and a second prism having a
preselected diopter power, said second prism being positioned on
the posterior end of said second extended objective lens for
directing paracentral light rays from a distant object onto a
macula of an eye.
22. The artificial lens of claim 15 further comprising a third lens
positioned between said first lens and said second lens for
receiving and passing light rays from an object at intermediate
range onto the macula.
23. An artificial lens adapted for use in an eye having an opening
formed in a natural pupil comprising at least a first lens system
and a second lens system having eccentric axes wherein at least one
lens system is adapted to be situated in an opening formed in the
natural pupil of an eye for producing disparate near and distant
macular images.
24. The artificial lens of claim 23 wherein one of said first lens
system and said second lens system includes a first lens having a
predetermined diopter power for receiving light rays from a near
object; and a first prism having a preselected diopter power, said
first prism being positioned on a selected surface of said first
lens for directing paracentral light rays from a near object onto a
macula of an eye and central light rays from a near object superior
of the macula.
25. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein the other of said first
lens system and said second lens system further comprising a second
lens having a predetermined diopter power positioned inferior of
said first lens for receiving light rays from a distant object; and
a second prism having a preselected diopter power, said second
prism being positioned on a selected surface of said second lens
for directing paracentral light rays from a distant object onto a
macula of an eye and the central light rays from a distant object
inferior of the macula.
26. The artificial lens of claim 25 wherein: said first lens has a
predetermined diopter power for receiving light rays from a near
object, said first lens defining an anterior lens surface and a
posterior lens surface; a prism having a preselected diopter power,
said prism being positioned contiguous of the posterior lens
surface of said first lens for directing paracentral light rays
from a near object onto a macula of an eye and the central light
rays from a near object superior of the macula; said second lens
being positioned inferior to the first lens for receiving light
rays from a distant object, said second lens defining a second
anterior lens surface and a second posterior lens surface; and a
second prism having a second preselected diopter power, said prism
being positioned contiguous the second posterior lens surface of
said second lens for directing paracentral light rays from a
distant object onto the macula of the eye and central light rays
from a distant object inferior of the macula.
27. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein said first lens and
said first prism are affixed to each other to define a corneal
overlay lens adapted to be affixed onto the cornea of an eye.
28. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein said first lens and
said first prism are affixed to each other to define a
cornealstroma lens adapted to be implanted into a cornea of an
eye.
29. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein said first lens and
said first prism affixed to each other and said second lens and
said second prism affixed to each other to define a corneal overlay
lens adapted to be affixed onto the cornea of an eye.
30. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein said first lens and
said first prism are affixed to each other and said second lens and
said second prism are affixed to each other to define an
cornealstroma lens adapted to be implanted into a cornea of an
eye.
31. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein said first lens and
said first prism are affixed to each other and said second lens and
said second prism are affixed to each other to define a lens body
of an intraocular lens.
32. The artificial lens of claim 31 further comprising resilient
support means operatively connected to said lens body to define an
intraocular lens.
33. The artificial lens of claim 32 wherein said lens body has an
outer peripheral surface for supporting said resilient support
means.
34. The artificial lens of claim 33 wherein resilient support means
comprises two haptic members equally spaced around said outer
peripheral surface and in a plane substantially coplanar with the
lens body.
35. The artificial lens of claim 32 wherein said resilient support
means comprises three haptic members equally spaced around said
outer peripheral surface and in a plane substantially coplanar with
the lens body.
36. The artificial lens of claim 24 wherein each of said first lens
and said second lens has a proximal edge which are positioned
adjacent to each other and wherein said first prism is positioned
with its wedge-shaped edge located adjacent the proximal edge of
said first lens and said second lens.
37. The artificial lens of claim 36 comprising a second prism is
having a base and wedge-shaped edge and wherein said wherein said
second prism is positioned with its wedge-shaped edge located
adjacent the proximal edge of the other of said first lens and said
second lens.
38. An artificial lens adapted to be located in an opening formed
in a natural pupil of an eye wherein the eye has a macula, said
artificial lens comprising a first lens system for receiving and
directing light rays from a near object onto the fovea of the
macula; and a second lens systems positioned inferior in an
eccentric arrangement to the first lens system for receiving and
directing light rays from a distant object onto the macula; said
first lens system and said second lens system each having a
principal axis which are eccentric to each other and the distance
therebetween is selected to situate at least one of the first lens
system and the second lens system within an opening formed in a
natural pupil for directing light rays from each image of each lens
onto a macula of an eye.
39. The artificial lens of claim 38 wherein said distance between
said principal axes is about equal to the geometric dimension of
the natural pupil.
40. The artificial lens of claim 38 wherein said eye includes an
anterior chamber and said first lens system and said second lens
system include an extended objective plus lens adapted to extend
into the anterior chamber of the eye.
41. The artificial lens of claim 40 wherein each of said extended
objective lens has a posterior end having a lens and a prism
affixed hereto and positioned to direct paracentral light rays onto
the macula of the eye and central light rays at least one of
superior and inferior of the macula.
42. An optical lens for a human eye having a macula and a natural
pupil and wherein an opening is formed in the natural pupil
comprising a lens body having an anterior surface and a posterior
surface, said lens body including at least two eccentrically
arranged lens systems wherein the principal axis of each lens
system is eccentric to each other and the distance between each
principal axis is selected to enable at least one of the at least
two lens systems to be situated within an opening formed in a
natural pupil for directing light rays from each image of each lens
onto a macula of an eye in a manner to obtain an optical effect for
substitution of the loss of accommodation of an eye.
43. The optical lens of claim 42 wherein at least one of said
system includes a prism for passing different light rays from an
object.
44. The optical lens of claim 43 wherein the prism includes a first
prism section and a second prism section and wherein the first
prism section is adapted to direct the selected paracentral light
rays from each object onto the macula of an eye and central light
rays from a different object to at least one of a preselected
location superior to the macula and a preselected location inferior
to the macula.
45. The optical lens of claim 42 wherein the lens body has a
central area and an eccentric superior area and wherein the prism
is located in the superior area of the lens body.
46. The optical lens of claim 45 wherein the central area of the
lens body has a principal axis and wherein a second prism section
is located on the principal axis of the lens body. from each of
different objects onto the macula.
47. A contact lens comprising a lens body, said lens body having a
first optical lens and a second optical lens wherein each of said
first optical lens system and said second optical lens system
having a principal axis which are eccentric to each other and at
least one of the first optical lens system and the second optical
lens system is adapted to be situated within an opening formed in a
natural pupil for directing light rays from each image of each lens
onto a macula of an eye.
48. The contact lens of claim 47 wherein the lens body has formed
thereon a slightly raised, generally triangular shaped anterior
surface.
49. The contact lens of claim 47 wherein the lens body has formed
thereon a slightly raised, generally circular shaped anterior
surface.
50. The contact lens of claim 47 wherein the lens body has a bottom
surface shaped to provide a guiding surface for the lower eyelid to
enable an eye having the contact lens to be rotated downward
placing one of the lens system under a bottom eyelid of an eye.
51. The contact lens of claim 48 wherein the lens body has bottom
section and includes a pair of spaced enlarged bottom sections to
weight the bottom thereof so as to keep the lens system situated
within the opening formed in the natural pupil.
52. The contact lens of claim 50 wherein the lens body has a bottom
surface shaped to provide a guiding surface for the lower eyelid to
enable an eye having the contact lens to be rotated downward
placing one of the lens system under a bottom eyelid of an eye.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application is a Division of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/123,588 filed Jul. 28, 1998, now pending, which is a
Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/854,162
filed May 9, 1997 which is a Division of Ser. No. 08/352,381 filed
Dec. 8, 1994, now abandoned.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to the field of ophthalmic optics and
artificial lens adapted to be affixed to an eye and more
specifically relates to an artificial lens adapted to be located in
an eye having a macula and an enlarged pupil wherein the artificial
lens comprises an optical lens system wherein each principal axis
is eccentric to each other for directing light rays from each image
of each lens onto the fovea centralis of the macula of an eye. In
the preferred embodiment a first lens system having a prism directs
paracentral light rays from a near object onto the fovea centralis
of the macula and a second lens system having a prism positioned in
a cooperating relationship to the first lens system directs central
light rays from a distant object onto the fovea centralis of the
macula of an eye.
[0004] This invention also relates to method for producing multiple
images of an object for an eye having an enlarged pupil using an
optical lens system wherein the principal axis of each lens system
is eccentric to each other.
[0005] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0006] It is known in the art that when the optical power of the
natural eye is emmetropic, the eye is naturally focused for
distance with the ciliary body at rest. The natural eye has the
ability to change (increase or decrease) the converging power of
the natural (crystalline) lens for near vision and for intermediate
vision, that is vision in the range of about 10" to about 18" or
20".
[0007] With aging, the eye's natural (crystalline) lens loses its
ability to adequately increase its converging power. In order to
provide for a sharp focus near vision, it is known in the art to
make use of artificial lens systems. It is also known in the art to
utilize a plurality of artificial lens systems such as spectacles
(sometimes referred to as glasses), contact lens, intraocular lens,
corneal lens and intracorneal lens, all of which are utilized to
produce a focused near vision. Such lens systems are designed to
use concentric lens systems for distant and near images and the
images are passed through the natural round pupil as the only
entrance of light to the retina.
[0008] Spectacles (sometimes referred to as glasses) are well known
in the art and are selected to have a diopter power to produce the
correction required to focus near vision. Also, it is known in the
art that such glasses or spectacles comprise bifocal lens for near
and distant vision correction or trifocal glasses for near,
intermediate and distant correction vision, all of which use the
central rays through the lens system chosen by the patient for
use.
[0009] Contact lens likewise are well known in the art. Typical of
the known prior art which describes contact lens are U.S. Pat. No.
3,034,403 relating to a contact lens of apparent variable light
absorption characteristics; U.S. Pat. No. 3,270,099 which relates
to a method for making multi-focal length, concentric contact lens
and U.S. Pat. No. 4,402,579 which discloses and teaches various
concentric axes contact lens structures.
[0010] Typically, contact lens are positioned over the anterior
surface of the pupil. The natural crystalline lens and iris remain
in place and perform their natural functions and cooperate with the
contact lens to focus the appropriate images on the fovea centralis
of the macula.
[0011] It is also known in the art to utilize prisms in glasses and
spectacles both located along the same axis to improve the image
focused on the natural crystalline lens.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 4,648,878 discloses a single lens in FIG. 6
thereof having a prism and wherein the lens is located in the
posterior chamber.
[0013] It is also known in the art to utilize intraocular lens to
replace the natural crystalline lens in a cataracts operation.
Intraocular lens are implanted into either the anterior chamber or
posterior chamber of the eye and are utilized in place of the
natural crystalline lens. Typical of such intraocular lens are U.S.
Pat. No. 4,010,496 which discloses a bifocal lens which is
positioned within the anterior chamber; U.S. Pat. No. 4,244,060
which discloses an intraocular lens having a lens body and a
plurality of lens-centering filaments extending outwardly in a
common plane from spaced rim portions of the lens body; U.S. Pat.
No. 4,485,499 which discloses intraocular posterior chamber lens
and U.S. Pat. No. 4,976,732 which discloses an optical lens wherein
the lens body has integral therewith a predetermined area which is
adapted to selectively intercept and pass light through the lens
body in a manner to obtain an optical effect for substitution of
the loss of accommodation of a phakic, aphakic and pseudophakic
eye.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 4,994,080 discloses an optical lens having
stenopaeic openings located in the central area thereof which
produces parallel light transmitting paths for passing light rays
along a path defining the visual axis of the eye and forwarded onto
the fovea centralis in a manner to obtain an optical effect by
increasing the depth of focus of the eye in order to substitute for
the loss of at least one of the focusing powers and the
accommodation of the eye.
[0015] Artificial lens are also known in the art which are capable
of being implanted onto the cornea anterior to the stromal surface
of an eye. The artificial lens becomes encapsulated by growth of
the corneal epithelium of the cornea of the eye over the anterior
surface of the implanted lens implanting the same. One such
artificial lens fabricated from a collagen-hydrogel material is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,112,350.
[0016] The natural (crystalline) lens degrades as the age of an
individual approaches the 40-to-50-year-age range such that the
natural lens can no longer adequately change shape due to an
increase in rigidity and loss of elasticity of the lens of the eye
causing defective accommodation and inability to focus sharply for
near vision. This condition is referred to as a presbyopia.
[0017] When this occurs, an individual requires additional
converging power (plus) for near vision. This is commonly supplied
by the lower lens in a bifocal artificial lens, such as glasses. As
the individual approaches the age range of 65-to-70-years,
substantially all of the natural converging powers of the lens is
lost and additional convergence for near requirement must be made
stronger. In such instances, the bifocal lens of the glasses,
contact lens or artificial lens must supply all the convergence of
light for near vision.
[0018] Following cataract extraction and intraocular lens
implantation, there remains the need for additional convergence of
light for near vision. With monofocal intraocular lens ("IOL")
focused for distance, the near vision convergence must be
completely supplied by the bifocal glasses or a single vision
reading glasses.
[0019] Multiple lens IOLs are known in the art and typically create
multiple light rays or images which are directed on the macula. The
artificial lens disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,034,403 and 4,976,732
described above produce multiple light rays for the eye. Typically,
the multiple lens IOLs do not have provisions for restricting the
light from near and far and spontaneously flood the macula with
excess light. Also, light passing through multiple lens IOLs enters
the eye through each of the optical systems resulting in both a
sharp image and a blurred image of the same image impinging upon
the fovea centralis of the macula. This results in: (a) loss of
color purity; (b) loss of contrast; and (c) inability of the retina
to adapt since the brain perceives the flooding and receipt of
extraneous light as too much light.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 4,906,245 discloses an implantable lens or
contact lens adapted for use in an eye having a natural pupil as a
replacement for a defective natural lens in the eye in which
various portions of the lens have different powers and focal
lengths to produce in-focus images on the retina of objects which
are located at various distances from the eye, thereby substituting
for the natural focusing action of the eye.
[0021] An intraocular lens that functions as a regular intraocular
lens and, in tandem with or concentric with a high plus spectacle
lens, as a Galilean telescope, was described in an article entitled
"The Telescopic Intraocular Lens" by Jeffrey Koziol, M. D., which
appeared at pages 43 and 44 of a compilation of papers presented at
the Eleventh National Science Writers Seminar in Ophthalmology,
Sep. 16-Sep. 19, 1990, at Universal City, Calif. (the "Koziol
Reference"). The Koziol Reference describes the telescopic
intraocular lens as a teledioptic lens having a peripheral convex
and central concave (minus) portion which have concentric axes. A
full range of visual field and normal image size is achieved with
the teledioptic lens. A magnified image is obtained when an image
in a visual field is viewed through the minus portion of the lens
and a high-plus spectacle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0022] None of the prior art discloses, teaches or suggests an
artificial lens system adapted to be affixed to an eye having an
enlarged natural pupil involving the separation of retinal images
and directing light rays from both near and far images such that
simultaneously different light rays of the same object strike the
fovea centralis of the macula. In the preferred embodiment portions
of the light rays are directed to locations superior and inferior
to the fovea centralis of the macula.
[0023] The known glasses or spectacles having a prism do not place
the prism on a selected surface of a lens to produce and direct
disparate images to the fovea centralis of the macula.
[0024] The lens system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,648,878 does
not disclose, suggest or teach an optical system having a first
lens system and a second lens system for an eye having an enlarged
natural pupil. The use of a prism in a single lens system does not
result in the production of disparate images
[0025] The intraocular lens of the prior art utilized in the eye
function to pass light rays of both near and far vision images onto
the fovea centralis of the macula. Under certain light conditions,
the macula is flooded with excess light thereby making it more
difficult for the brain to interpret the image due to the presence
of excess and not completely focused light.
[0026] In multiple lens IOLs, numerous light rays are presented to
the macula through the multiple optical systems resulting in both a
dull, less intense sharp image and a dulled, less intense blurred
image of the same object. As a result, the retina is unable to
adapt to the multiple images since the brain perceives the flooding
of extraneous light and the blurred image as additional light
making dark adaptation thereof difficult. The result is inadequate
stimulation to drive the neurons. This is made worse when low
illumination is present, such as at evening or at night.
[0027] The lens implant or contact lens system of U.S. Pat. No.
4,906,245 does not disclose, suggest or teach an optical system
having a first lens system and a second lens system for
implantation in an eye having an enlarged natural pupil.
[0028] The telescopic intraocular lens of the Koziol Reference
requires use with a high plus, concentric spectacle to develop a
magnified image.
[0029] The present invention relates to a novel, new and unique
lens which is in the form of an artificial lens including a
multifocal optical lens system having eccentric axes which is
affixed to an eye. The lens of the present invention overcomes each
of the above problems associated with the prior art while
concurrently producing a system for developing specific light rays
from near and distant images of objects which are focused on the
fovea centralis of the macula.
[0030] The artificial lens of the present invention is adapted for
use in an eye and comprises means adapted to be affixed to an eye
having multifocal optical lens system wherein the principal axis of
each lens is eccentric to each other for directing light rays from
each image of each of the multifocal lens onto a fovea centralis of
the macula of an eye. In the preferred embodiment, the artificial
lens includes an image producing means comprising a first lens
having a predetermined diopter power for receiving a near image and
a prism having a preselected diopter power. The prism is positioned
on a selected surface of the first lens and directs paracentral
light rays from a near object onto the fovea centralis of the
macula of the eye and central light rays of the near object
superior of the fovea centralis of the macula. The artificial lens
includes a second lens having a predetermined diopter power
positioned eccentrically inferior of the first lens for receiving
light rays from a distant object. The second lens may include a
second prism having a preselected diopter power. The second prism
is positioned on a selected surface of the second lens and directs
paracentral light rays from the distant object onto a fovea
centralis of the macula of the eye and central light rays from the
distant object inferior of the fovea centralis of the macula. Also,
a method is disclosed herein for producing multiple images for an
eye comprising the step of affixing to an eye an artificial lens
having a multifocal optical lens system wherein the principal axis
of each lens is eccentric to each other for directing light rays
from each image of each lens of the multifocal optical lens onto a
fovea centralis of the macula of an eye.
[0031] There is no provision to selectively minimize or eliminate
the light rays from one system while utilizing the other lens
system. With the novel design of the present invention, the
vertical eccentric arrangement of the lens systems makes it
possible to selectively minimize the light rays from one of the
lens systems by utilizing variations of eye lid positions in
relation to the lens systems. For example, when concentrating on an
object of regard, that is the specific objected desired to be
viewed, from a distance through the distance lens system, the near
lens system can be partially or completely occluded by the user
intentionally lowering the upper lid. This results in
"purification" (decrease in unfocused light) of the distance image.
With the user adapts to use of the lens, the user's positioning of
the eyelid occurs without conscious attention. As the unused lens
system is minimized by the lid, the brain perceives the change as
"better" and it becomes natural to "purify" the image of the object
of regard.
[0032] Although it is known in the prior art to utilize prisms in
glasses, the prior art does not disclose, teach, suggest utilizing
an artificial lens within the eye having a multifocal optical lens
system wherein the principal axis of each lens system is eccentric
to each other for directing light rays from each image of each lens
of the multifocal optical lens system onto a fovea centralis of the
macula of an eye. The artificial lens of the present invention
maintains a separation of light rays from images of the two lens
systems such that the fovea centralis of the macula will not be
simultaneously presented with a fuzzy image and a clear image of
the same object.
[0033] Thus, one advantage of the present invention is that the
artificial lens system in the preferred embodiment is arranged such
that the first lens system located superiorly in the eye having an
enlarged natural pupil, when in use, permits light to pass
therethrough onto the fovea centralis of the macula thereby
directing paracentral light rays of a near object onto the fovea
centralis of the fovea centralis of the macula and central light
rays of the same object superior of the fovea centralis of the
macula.
[0034] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
multifocal optical system provides for near and distant correction
of refractive error that does not use glasses or other similar
external eye devices.
[0035] Another advantage of the present invention is that the two
lens system in the lens optical system are eccentric and direct
light rays from the same image onto the fovea centralis of the
macula of an eye having an enlarged pupil wherein the principal
axis of each optical lens system is eccentric to each other and the
distance between each principal axis is selected to enable the
first optical lens system and the second optical lens system to be
operable within the enlarged pupil for directing light rays from a
different object or the same object viewed through each of the
first optical lens system and second optical lens system onto a
fovea centralis of the macula of an eye.
[0036] The amount of separation of light rays of an image by a
prism can be varied. If complete separation or disparity of the
near and distance image is desired, a greater amount of prism can
be placed in one or both of the first optical lens systems and
second optical lens system to create this complete separation. If
only slight disparity is desired, a very small amount of prism can
be included in either or both of the distance and near lens
systems. This very slight disparity has the effect of increasing
depth perception or sterioposis. With the vertical eccentric
arrangement, the image developed on the retina can be further
purified by changing the relative lid positions in relation to the
lens systems thereby eliminating certain rays which purifies the
image of the object of regard. This is especially valuable in
scotopic conditions such as with night driving. By eliminating the
unfocused light, the retina and brain are able to dark adapt.
[0037] Another advantage of the present invention is that a prism
may be used in one or both of the first optical lens systems and
second optical lens system to control the amount of deflection of
the paracentral light rays e.g., light rays which did not enter the
eye through the center of the cornea. For example, when a single
object is simultaneously observed by the user through the two
optical lens systems, a small amount of prism may be used to either
cause or maintain complete separation of the two images (complete
disparity) or to cause the two images to be closely superimposed or
substantially superimposed (leaving only slight disparity for the
increase in depth perception or increase in sterioposis).
Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment, a prism may be used to
completely separate the image observed through the two optical lens
systems or to control the amount of separation of the images to
bring about superimposition or almost superimposition (slight
disparity) to improve the quality of depth perception of the object
of regard.
[0038] Another advantage of the present system is that the imaging
producing means can be so arranged that when one lens system is in
use, the light allowed to go through the other or unused lens
system is minimized or completely eliminated. By placing the "near
optical vision system" superiorly on the artificial lens, the upper
eyelid position can be varied and thereby be utilized to cover up
the nearest system while primarily using the "distant optical
vision system" to pass selected paracentral light rays from an
image onto the fovea centralis of the macula.
[0039] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
natural pupil size can be altered or reconfigured by making the
pupil larger and preferably an elongated vertically shaped
elliptical natural pupil. By altering the pupil size or
configuration, the quantity of available light is increased to 150%
to 175% of the light that would have traversed the untreated or
unaltered pupil. This is a marked improvement over the prior art
lens system where the transmitted light is divided between the two
lens system. Therefore, approximately 65% to 75% light (compared to
the quantity of the light passing through the unaltered pupil
before treatment) would be available for the lens system of the
present invention to use to focus light rays from the images on the
fovea centralis of the macula. If the pupil is not altered, only
approximately 40% to approximately 45% of the light is available to
be focused through each optical system. This is typical of the
numerous lens design of the prior art described above.
[0040] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
artificial lens of the present invention can have one or both of
the imaging lens system configured with an extended objective lens
anterior to the iris plane to function as a light gathering
means.
[0041] Another advantage of the present invention is that eccentric
location of the near system in a superior position can be utilized
in an altered natural pupil, such as for example, in natural pupil
which is enlarged by forming the opening thereof into an oval shape
resulting a large geometrical dimension relative to the edge of
and, if desired, superior to the original edge of the pupil.
[0042] Another advantage of the present invention is that further
eccentricity of the near lens system is achievable by altering the
natural pupil by vertical elongation of the natural pupil or by use
of an accessory pupil. A prism may be used to optically cause
greater image separation or a reduction in image separation by the
eccentrically arranged lens system. This reduction can be complete,
if desired, to increase the perception of depth, or almost
complete, e.g. slight disparity. Thus, the accommodation of a
single eye may be used to enhance depth perception which is
different from and may be in addition to controlling or adjusting
the depth perception or varying the amount of depth perception by
varying the deflection angle, by use of a prism, between two eyes
and/or the optical lens system used in both eyes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] These and other advantages of this invention will be readily
apparent when considered in light of the detailed description
hereinafter of the preferred embodiment and when considered in
light of the drawings set forth herein which include the following
figures:
[0044] FIGS. 1a, 1b and 1c are pictorial representations of the eye
illustrating rotation positions of the eye about its rotational
axis showing the positional relationship between the natural
crystalline lens and the macula;
[0045] FIG. 2 is a front view of an eye having an artificial lens
in the form of an intraocular lens having an eccentric lens system
for producing near and distant macular images;
[0046] FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of an image producing
means comprising a first lens having a predetermined diopter power
and a second lens having a preselected diopter power eccentric to
the first lens for focusing similar images onto the fovea centralis
of the macula in an eye;
[0047] FIG. 4a is a pictorial representation of an image producing
means having a first lens having a prism and a second lens having a
prism for directing light rays from near and far objects onto the
eye, with the near image N.sub.1 directed superior to the fovea
centralis of the macula and the distant image D.sub.1 inferior of
the fovea centralis of the macula;
[0048] FIG. 4b is a pictorial representation of the first optical
lens system and the second optical lens system illustrated in FIG.
4a which are eccentric, without a prism, illustrating that the
images received from an object of regard may be separated at the
fovae centralis of the macula;
[0049] FIG. 4c is a pictorial representation of the first optical
lens system and the second optical lens system illustrated in FIG.
4a which are eccentric, with a prism, illustrating that the images
received from an object of regard may be substantially imposed or
closely imposed on the fovae centralis of the macula;
[0050] FIG. 5 is a pictorial representation of an artificial lens
of the present invention formed as an intraocular lens located in
the anterior chamber of an eye;
[0051] FIG. 6 is a pictorial representation of an artificial lens
of the present invention formed as an intraocular lens located in
the posterior chamber of an eye;
[0052] FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of an artificial lens
of the present invention affixed to the cornea of an eye
subepithelially;
[0053] FIG. 8 is a pictorial representation of an artificial lens
of the present invention which is implanted as an intracorneal lens
intrastromal;
[0054] FIG. 9 is a pictorial representation of an artificial lens
of the present invention having a near lens system superior and a
distant lens system inferiorly, in an eccentric arrangement, with
the position of both lens system being below the upper eyelid;
[0055] FIG. 10 is a pictorial representation of the position of the
image producing means of FIG. 9 observing images below the
eyelid;
[0056] FIG. 11 is a pictorial representation of an eye having an
artificial lens of the present invention wherein the image
producing means includes a first lens system and a second lens
system wherein the near lens system is covered by the upper eyelid
resulting in only the second lens system passing light rays from a
distant object to the fovea centralis of the macula of the eye;
[0057] FIG. 12 is a pictorial representation of an eye having image
producing means wherein the near lens system is occluded by the
upper eyelid resulting in only the light rays from the distant
object being passed by an artificial lens of this invention to the
fovea centralis of the macula of an eye;
[0058] FIG. 13 is a pictorial representation of a pupil having an
accessory pupil formed therein wherein a first lens system is
located posteriorly to the accessory pupil and the second lens
system is located posteriorly to the natural pupil;
[0059] FIG. 14 is a pictorial representation of an eye showing the
front view of the eye having an accessory pupil formed therein for
cooperating with the first lens system and wherein the natural
pupil cooperates with the second lens system;
[0060] FIG. 15 is a pictorial representation of an eye having an
altered pupil to form the same into a vertical ellipitically shaped
pupil for cooperating with an image producing means having a first
lens system and a second lens system eccentrically arranged;
[0061] FIG. 16 is a pictorial representation of an image producing
means having a first lens system having a first lens and a prism
and a second lens system having a second lens located in the
accessory pupil and natural pupil, respectively;
[0062] FIG. 17a is a pictorial representation of a bi-convex
lens;
[0063] FIG. 17b is a pictorial representation of a double convex
lens having a prism operatively connected there between adapted for
use as a lens system;
[0064] FIG. 17c is a pictorial representation of a first lens
system having a prism and a second lens system having a prism;
[0065] FIG. 18 is a pictorial representation of an image producing
means having a pair of extended objective lens having a lens system
including a prism located at the distal end thereof for producing
disparate macular images;
[0066] FIG. 19 is a pictorial representation of the distal section
of the lens system illustrated in FIG. 18 showing another
embodiment of an image producing means;
[0067] FIG. 20 is a pictorial representation of an artificial lens
of the present invention having an extended objective lens and a
prism in the superior location in an altered elongated natural
pupil and a plano-convex lens and a prism in the normal natural
pupil;
[0068] FIG. 21 is a front plan view of the artificial lens of FIG.
20;
[0069] FIGS. 22a, 22b and 22c are pictorial representations of: (i)
an artificial lens system having an extended objective lens in
accessory pupil; (ii) an artificial lens having an extended
objective lens in both the accessory pupil and natural pupil with a
third extended objective lens alternative; and (iii) an artificial
lens having an extended objective lens in the natural pupil;
[0070] FIG. 23 is a front plan view of an artificial lens in the
form of an intraocular lens having an extended objective lens and a
prism in the superior location on the lens and an extended
objective lens located inferior on the lens;
[0071] FIG. 24 is an elevational end view of the intraocular lens
of FIG. 23;
[0072] FIG. 25 is a pictorial representation of the eye showing the
natural pupil and an accessory pupil having the intraocular lens of
FIG. 23 implanted in the eye;
[0073] FIG. 26 is a pictorial representation of the eye showing the
natural pupil being formed into a vertically extending elliptical
shape forming an enlarged pupil which is in lieu of an accessory
pupil and having the intraocular lens of FIG. 23 implanted in the
eye;
[0074] FIG. 27 is another embodiment of an artificial lens in the
form of an intraocular lens having a lens with an extended
objective lens and a prism located superiorly on the lens and a
plano-convex lens in the natural pupil;
[0075] FIG. 28 is a pictorial representation of an eye having a
natural pupil which is formed into an enlarged pupil with the
intraocular lens of FIG. 27 implanted therein and showing the
various positions of the upper eyelid to control passing of light
rays from a near image through the extended objective lens;
[0076] FIG. 29a shows a pictorial representation of the eye having
a natural lens and an intrastromal lens having a plano-convex lens
and a "base up" prism located superiorly within the cornea of an
eye to form an image through the natural pupil;
[0077] FIGS. 29b and 29c are pictorial representations of a near
lens system having a "base up" and "base down" prism,
respectively;
[0078] FIG. 30 is a pictorial representation of an eye having a
partial (no superior cut) radial keratotomy and a vertically
elongated natural pupil for receiving light rays from an
intracorneal lens located superiorly in the stroma in front of the
pupil for passing a separate image through the enlarged natural
pupil;
[0079] FIG. 31 is a pictorial representation of a natural pupil
which is enlarged causing at least a portion thereof superior to
the eye to be enlarged;
[0080] FIG. 32 is a pictorial representation of a natural pupil
which is enlarged by altering the natural pupil to the eye to be
superior to the eye to be enlarged;
[0081] FIG. 33 is a pictorial representation of a natural pupil
which is enlarged by forming in the natural pupil an accessory
opening to the eye to be superior to the eye to be enlarged;
[0082] FIG. 34 is a pictorial representation of a lens of the prior
art located with the natural pupil of an aye to focus an image of
an object on the fovea centralis of the macula of an eye wherein
the diameter of the natural pupil and the lens are substantially
equal;
[0083] FIG. 35 is a pictorial representation of an enlarged natural
pupil having one embodiment of an artificial lens located within
the eye in the posterior chamber and having a first lens system and
a second lens system wherein the principal axis of each optical
lens system is eccentric to each other and the distance between
each principal axis is selected to enable the first optical lens
system and the second optical lens system to be operable within the
enlarged pupil for directing light rays from each image of each
lens of the first optical lens system and second optical lens
system onto a fovea centralis of the macula of an eye;
[0084] FIG. 36 is a pictorial representation of an enlarged natural
pupil having yet another embodiment of an artificial lens located
within the eye in the posterior chamber and having a first lens
system having a prism and a second lens system wherein the
principal axis of each optical lens system is eccentric to each
other and the distance between each principal axis is selected to
enable the first optical lens system and the second optical lens
system to be operable within the enlarged pupil for directing light
rays from each image of each lens of the first optical lens system
and second optical lens system onto a fovea centralis of the macula
of an eye;
[0085] FIG. 37 is a pictorial representation of still yet another
embodiment of an artificial lens having a first lens system having
light gathering lens and a second lens system wherein the principal
axis of each optical lens system is eccentric to each other and the
distance between each principal axis is selected to enable the
first optical lens system and the second optical lens system to be
operable within the enlarged pupil for directing light rays from
each image of each lens of the first optical lens system and second
optical lens system onto a fovea centralis of the macula of an
eye;
[0086] FIG. 38 is a pictorial representation of still yet another
embodiment of an artificial lens having a first lens system having
extended objective lens and a second lens system wherein the
principal axis of each optical lens system is eccentric to each
other and the distance between each principal axis is selected to
enable the first optical lens system and the second optical lens
system to be operable within the enlarged pupil for directing light
rays from each image of each lens of the first optical lens system
and second optical lens system onto a fovea centralis of the macula
of an eye;
[0087] FIG. 39a is a pictorial representation of an eye having an
enlarged natural pupil and the artificial lens having the optical
system having the eccentric lens is in the form of a corneal lens
located on the cornea of an eye or an intracorneal lens, shown by a
dashed line, located with the cornea of an eye;
[0088] FIG. 39b is a pictorial representation of an eye having an
enlarged natural pupil and the artificial lens having the optical
system having the eccentric lens is in the form of a contact lens
located on the cornea of an eye;
[0089] FIG. 40 is a pictorial representation of a contact lens
having a first optical lens and a second optical lens formed on a
slightly raised, generally triangular shaped anterior surface of
the lens wherein the bottom surface thereof has been shaped to
provide a guiding surface for the lower eyelid to enable the eye
having the lens to be rotated downward placing the first lens
system under the bottom eyelid; and
[0090] FIG. 41 is a pictorial representation of a contact lens
having a first optical lens and a second optical lens formed on a
slightly raised, generally triangular shaped anterior surface of
the lens having a pair of spaced enlarged bottom sections to weight
the bottom of the lens and wherein the bottom thereof has chopped
to provide a guiding surface for the lower eyelid to enable the eye
having the lens to be rotated downward placing the first lens
system under the bottom eyelid.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0091] Before beginning with the description of the preferred
embodiment, the following background information is provided for a
better understanding of the present invention.
[0092] The anatomical center of the human eye is not necessarily
the optical center of the human eye. The anatomical center of the
human eye is calculated or derived from measurement of the diameter
of the cornea, and this dimension can be obtained by using
techniques well known in the art. However, the optical center of
the human eye is generally slightly nasal and downward relative to
the anatomical center.
[0093] The angular difference between the optical center and the
anatomical center is generally known in the art as the angle kappa
(k). For example, the optical center may be 3.degree. and
1.5.degree. inferior to the anatomical center. It is known in the
art that the above angular differences could be as much as about
6.degree. to about 7.degree. or more.
[0094] In addition, the term "fovea centralis" refers to the small,
rodless depression of the retina in line with the visual axis which
affords acute vision. The term "fovea vision" refers to vision
being accomplished by looking directly at objects in daylight so
that the image falls on or near the fovea centralis. This is also
known as photopic vision. The term "macula" refers to the
anatomical structure of the eye having the form of a spot as
differentiated from surrounding tissue.
[0095] The fovea centralis is located in the macula of the eye,
which, in turn, is a component of the retina of the eye. Sometimes
the fovea centralis is the area referred to as the macula upon
which the image is actually focused. A location referred to herein
as "superior" describes a location position situated generally
above the fovea centralis of the macula, while a location referred
to herein as "inferior" describes a location position situated
generally below the fovea centralis of the macula. Generally, all
useful photopic vision originates with the macula.
[0096] The term "accommodation" describes the following
characteristics of the eye. When the brain perceives that attention
of the person is required for near, enervation is initiated to the
ciliary body, which is a circular, sphincter type, muscle located
just behind the iris for 360 degrees; by means of the occulomoter
nerve. The muscle contracts and in so doing brings about relative
relaxation of the zonules. Slackened zonules result in decreased
lateral traction on the capsule of the crystalline lens. As a
result, the elastic quality of the capsule causes the lens to seek
the shape of greatest volume which is that which is most spherical.
This in turn results in an increase in the anterior-posterior
diameter of the lens. This results in an increase in plus dioptic
power of the lens. As a consequence, the focal point of the optical
system of the eye moves anteriorly, that is closer to the front of
the eyes. Divergent rays from an object at near which would have
come into focus behind the retina are thereby brought to focus on
the fovea centralis of the macula of the retina.
[0097] The term "eccentric" means situated to one side with
reference to a center as contrasted to the word concentric which
pertains to the relationship between two different sized circular,
cylindrical or spherical shapes when the smaller one is exactly (or
substantially) centered with the larger one.
[0098] In the present invention, an artificial lens system using
the teachings of the present invention has a first optical lens
system and a second optical lens system wherein the principal axes
thereof are spaced apart thereby making the same eccentric. Such an
artificial lens system may be used, preferably with one of the two
lens system having a prism, in a natural pupil. However, it is also
a teaching of the present invention that the natural pupil can be
altered, e.g., have an auxiliary pupil surgically formed superior
to the natural pupil. As such, an artificial lens system having two
optical lens system, which are likewise eccentric, may be used in
such a surgically altered natural pupil.
[0099] In such a use, the distance between the principal axis of
the two optical lens system would be at least equal to the
geometrical dimension of the natural pupil, for example, the
diameter of the natural pupil.
[0100] If desired, the user can select use of one of the two
optical lens system by positioning the eyelid over the unselected
optical lens system or by rotating the eye to cause the unselected
lens system to be occluded by an eyelid.
[0101] Referring now to FIGS. 1a, 1b and 1c, the human eye is shown
generally as 30 with the retina being shown generally as 32. The
macula including the fovea centralis is shown generally as 34. The
pupil 40 is spaced a predetermined distance from the macula 34. As
illustrated in FIG. 1a, the eyeball has a central rotational axis
36 about which the eyeball rotates.
[0102] FIG. 1a shows the eye of the human wherein the eyeball is
positioned such that the pupil looks straight ahead to an object.
The image of an object observed by the eye passes through the pupil
40 onto the macula 34.
[0103] FIG. 1b illustrates how the eyeball rotates when a person
looks upward in the direction as shown by arrow 44. The pupil 40
moves upward in the same direction as the arrow 44 while the macula
34 moves in an opposite direction. Thus, the image of an object is
passed through the pupil 40 and is directed onto the fovea
centralis of the macula 34.
[0104] In a similar manner, FIG. 1c shows the rotation of the eye
when a person looks downward as illustrated by arrow 46. The image
perceived by the user from an object passes through the pupil 40
and onto the fovea centralis of the macula 34.
[0105] FIG. 2 illustrates pictorially an eye 50 having a posterior
capsule shown by dashed line 52. An artificial lens of the present
invention, shown generally as 54, is in the form of an intraocular
lens having a near lens system 58 located superiorly of a distant
lens system 60 supported in the eye by three haptics 56. The
artificial lens 54 is adapted for use in the human eye. The
artificial lens 54 is a multifocal optical lens system wherein the
principal axis of each lens is eccentric to each other for
directing light rays from each image lens of the multifocal optical
lens system onto the fovea centralis of the macula of an eye. In
the preferred embodiment as illustrated FIG. 2, the artificial lens
54 includes a near lens vision system 58 and a distant lens vision
system. In this embodiment, the multifocal optical lens system
includes a first lens system which is adapted for receiving light
rays from a near object and a second lens system which is adapted
for receiving light rays from a distant object. The principal axis
of each lens is eccentric to each other.
[0106] FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of the present invention wherein
the artificial lens 62 is adapted for producing similar images from
the same object from lens in an eccentric arrangement wherein light
rays from each object are directed upon the fovea centralis or the
macula 34. In FIG. 3, the first lens system includes a first lens
64 having a predetermined diopter power for receiving light rays
from a near object shown as N.sub.1 and the light rays illustrated
by line 94 are directed onto the fovea centralis of the macula. The
first lens 64 has a selected surface 66 located on the posterior
surface thereof.
[0107] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, a second lens
system includes a second lens 74 having a second selected surface
76. The second lens 74 is in a form of a plano-convex lens adapted
to pass light rays from a distant object shown as D.sub.1 and for
directing the light rays 92 from a distant object onto the fovea
centralis of the macula 34 of the eye. The two lens systems have an
eccentric relationship.
[0108] Thus, light rays N.sub.1 from a near object passes along a
path shown by line 94 through the first lens 64 and is directed to
the fovea centralis of the macula 34 shown as N.sub.1.
[0109] In the second lens system, light rays from the distant
object shown as D.sub.1 are passed along a path shown by line 92
through the selected surface 76 of the lens 74 and then is directed
along a path shown by line 92 to the fovea centralis of the fovea
centralis of the macula of the eye 34 as shown by D.sub.1.
[0110] FIG. 4a is an alternative embodiment of the artificial lens
62 adapted for use in the present invention. In FIG. 4a, the first
lens 64 includes a prism 68 having a preselected diopter power
which is positioned with its base 70 in a "base up" position such
that the wedge-shaped edge 66 is positioned adjacent the edge of
the second lens 74. As illustrated in FIG. 4(a), the prism 68 is
positioned against the selected surface 66 of the first lens 64 of
the first lens system.
[0111] Referring to FIG. 4a, the first lens 64 has a prism 68
mounted on a surface of the first lens 64. The first prism 68 is
wedge-shaped and has a wedge-shaped edge 69 which is situated
adjacent the proximal edge 71 of the first lens 64. The second lens
74 has a second prism 102 mounted on a surface of the second lens
74. The second prism 102 is also wedge-shaped and has a wedge-shape
edge 73 which is situated adjacent the proximal edge 75 of the
second lens 74. As shown in FIG. 4, the wedge-shaped edges 69, 73
of the first and second prisms 68, 102 are located adjacent each
other and in proximity to the proximal edges 71, 75 of the first
and second lenses 64, 74.
[0112] In the second lens system, the second lens 74 includes a
second prism 102 having a preselected diopter power which is
positioned with the base 104 in a "base down" position such that
wedge-shaped edge 106 is positioned adjacent the edge 72 of the
prism 68 affixed to the selected surface 66 of the first lens
64.
[0113] The light rays from the near objects are passed by the first
lens 64 and prism 68 and light rays N.sub.1 and N.sub.2 from the
near objects transverse the paths shown by dashed line 80 for
N.sub.1 and solid line 86 for N.sub.2. The light rays shown by
dashed line 80 pass through the first lens 64 and are directed by
prism 68, by deflection towards the base 70, to a location superior
of the fovea centralis of the macula shown by dashed line 82.
[0114] However, the path traversed by the light rays from the
distant objects are different. As illustrated in FIG. 4(a), the
light rays from the distant objects shown as D.sub.1 pass along a
path shown by dashed line 90 through the second lens 74 and through
the prism 102 wherein the prism 102 directs the light rays from the
distant object along a path shown by dashed line 92 to a location
inferior of the fovea centralis of the macula 34 as shown by
D.sub.1. The light rays D.sub.2 from the distant object are passed
along a path shown by solid line 108, through the second lens 74
and, through the prism 102 where the image is deflected towards the
base 104. The prism 102 directs the light rays from the distant
image along the path shown by solid line 110 to the fovea centralis
of the macula as shown by D.sub.2.
[0115] FIG. 4a shows that by utilizing the two prisms 68 and 102,
the prisms function to separate the light rays from different
objects into separate light ray paths wherein the light rays of
some of the objects, the paracentral light rays, are directed onto
the fovea centralis of the macula and the remainder of the light
rays, the central light rays, of some of the objects are directed
to a location at least one of superior to the fovea centralis of
the macula for near and inferior to the fovea centralis of the
macula for distant objects. Thus, paracentral rays are directed to
the fovea centralis of the macula from distant and near
objects.
[0116] FIG. 4b is a pictorial representation of the first optical
lens system having a first lens 64 and the second optical lens
system having a second lens 74 illustrated in FIG. 4a which are
eccentric and without a prism. FIG. 4b illustrates that the images
received from an object of regard as shown by lines N'.sub.2 and
D'.sub.2 may be separated at the fovae centralis of the macula;
[0117] FIG. 4c is a pictorial representation of the first optical
lens system having a first lens 64 and the second optical lens
system having a second lens 74 illustrated in FIG. 4a which are
eccentric and one of which has a prism similar to prism 20
illustrated in FIG. 4a. FIG. 4b illustrates that the images
received from an object of regard, as shown by lines N.sub.2' and
N.sub.2", may be substantially imposed or closely imposed on the
fovae centralis of the macula by use of a prism similar to prism 20
illustrated in FIG. 4a.
[0118] FIG. 5 illustrates the implantation of an artificial lens in
the form of an intraocular lens shown generally as 132 into an eye
shown generally as 116. The intraocular lens 132 is located in the
anterior chamber of eye 116 and is spaced from the cornea 118. The
iris 120 and ciliary processes 124 define the irdiocapsular cleft
122 which is located in the posterior chamber of the eye 116. The
hyaloid membrane 126 has an end 130 which is attached to the
ciliary processes 124. The hyaloid membrane 126 maintains the
vitreous humor 128 within the eye.
[0119] As illustrated in FIG. 5, an artificial lens of the present
invention in the form of intraocular lens 132 has a near lens
system 136 and distant lens system 138. Resilient support members
shown generally as 140, which may be four equally spaced haptic
members, and its associated annular-shaped guide and support
elements are located forward of the pupil 120. The resilient
support members 140 and their associated annular-shaped guide and
support elements support the intraocular lens 132 having the first
lens system and the second lens system formed therein in the
anterior chamber of the eye 116.
[0120] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate location of the intraocular
lens in the eye 116. In FIG. 6, an artificial lens 132 utilizing
the teachings of this invention is implanted in the posterior
chamber of the eye 116. Typically, the resilience support means 140
and their associated annular-shaped guides and support elements
which formed part of the intraocular lens 132 are located within
the capsular bag shown by dashed lines 150 of the original natural
crystalline lens.
[0121] The intraocular lens utilizing the artificial lens of the
present invention could be located with the resilient support means
140 of the lens 132 being positioned in the ciliary sulcus which is
located between the iris 120 and the ciliary processes 124 or in
the capsular bag 150 of the natural crystalline lens after the
natural crystalline lens is removed by using known surgical
procedures. The resilient support means 140 of lens 132 can
comprise two to four haptic members which are equally spaced around
the outer peripheral surface and the plane substantially coplaner,
or with 5.degree. to 10.degree. angulation which is deemed to be
substantially coplanar, with the lens body. In the alternative, the
resilient support beams could comprise three haptic members
(similar to FIG. 2) or more, such as four haptic members (FIG. 5)
equally spaced thereon the outer peripheral surface of the lens
body and in a plane substantially coplaner, or with 5.degree. to
10.degree. angulation which is deemed to be substantially coplanar,
with the lens body. The reference to a resilient support means 140
as illustrated FIGS. 5 and 6 includes a two haptic member, three
haptic member or four haptic member resilient support.
[0122] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of an artificial lens
which utilizes the teachings of the present invention in the form
of a corneal overlay lens which is adapted to be affixed to the
surface of the cornea 118 of eye 116 subepithelially. The
artificial lens shown generally as 142 includes a near lens system
144 and a distant lens system 148. The artificial lens 142 is
positioned centrally within a lens body 152.
[0123] It is envisioned that the corneal lens body 152 forming the
artificial lens 142 can be implanted using known surgical
techniques for affixing an artificial lens to the cornea of an eye
with a patient's epithelium covering the anterior surface of the
lens.
[0124] FIG. 8 is another embodiment of an artificial lens of the
present invention in the form of an intracorneal lens shown as
artificial lens 142. Artificial lens 142 has a near lens system 144
and the far lens system 148 with an eccentric relationship. The
artificial lens 142 is implanted within the stroma, or
intrastromally, of the cornea 118 using known surgical implantation
techniques. The structure of the artificial lens 142 is the same as
that illustrated on FIG. 7. In the case of myopia, a concave
(negative) lens could be used for distance in place of lens system
148 and if necessary for near in place of lens system 144.
[0125] A similar arrangement for eccentrically arranged lens
without prism, similar to FIG. 3, can be used in a similar
lens.
[0126] FIGS. 9, 10, 11 and 12 illustrates the lens of FIG. 2
positioned within an eye 156 having an upper eyelid 158 wherein the
eyelid has the edge thereof defined by dashed line 160. The
artificial lens 50 is positioned on the eye as described herein
before and when the user directs the eye to look generally downward
in a direction as shown in FIG. 10, the near vision system 58 and
the distant vision system 60 are both positioned below the edge 160
of eyelid 158. However, the distant vision system is blocked by the
lower eyelid 162 by edge 164 shown by dashed line being interrupted
by the lower eyelid 162, and the near system is the only system
positioned to receive light.
[0127] FIG. 10 shows the relationship between the eye 156, the
eyelid 158 including edge 160 thereof and the artificial lens 54
thereof supporting the near vision system 58 and the far vision
system 60 in a position below the eyelid edge 160.
[0128] FIGS. 11 and 12 depict the same relationship except that the
eyeball has been adjusted into a position similar to that depicted
by FIG. 1b hereinabove or the upper eyelid has been lowered. In
that position, the near image system 58 is moved past the eyelid
edge 160 and under the eyelid 158. Thus, the distant vision system
60 is the only portion of the image producing means which is
adapted to receive light.
[0129] FIG. 12 illustrates the relationship between the artificial
lens 50 and edge 160 of the eyelid 150. The near vision is blocked.
This illustrated by the dashed line being interrupted by the upper
eyelid 158.
[0130] This selective coverage of the near lens system is possible
because of the eccentric arrangement of the lens system.
[0131] In FIG. 10, the user receives light rays from both a near
image and a distant object, and selected paracentral light rays are
directed onto the fovea centralis of the macula as described
hereinbefore. In FIG. 12, only light rays from the distant vision
system are received by the fovea centralis of the macula through
the distant vision system 60.
[0132] FIG. 13 discloses another embodiment of the present
invention wherein the artificial lens is posterior to and is
adapted to cooperate with a pupil 170 of eye 156 which has been
altered and reconfigured. In FIG. 13, the iris has been altered to
form an auxiliary pupil 178 located superiorly.
[0133] There are two ways for accomplishing the alteration and
reconfiguration of the iris. FIG. 14 illustrates one method wherein
an accessory pupil 178 is formed in a location superior to the
natural pupil 170. Thus, the iris would have two distinct pupils, a
natural pupil 170 and an accessory pupil 178. This has the
advantage of cooperating with the separation or eccentricity
between the principal axes of the near lens system and distant lens
system, implanted or affixed to the eye even greater. Also, there
is no diffraction of the light of the interface between the two
lens systems.
[0134] FIG. 15 shows another method for altering and reconfiguring
the pupil 170 to make the same larger. As illustrated FIG. 15, the
equivalent to an accessory pupil, area 182, is formed by enlarging
the natural pupil 170 to make the same into an elongated vertically
elliptical shape pupil.
[0135] Referring again to FIG. 13, the artificial lens 172 would
then be positioned with the near imaging system 174 located in the
accessory pupil 178 and the distant imaging portion 176 would be
located in the natural pupil 170.
[0136] By altering the size of pupil 170 and reconfiguring the same
or by making an accessory pupil, the quantity of available light is
increased to about 150% to about 175% of the light that would have
been passed by the untreated or unaltered pupil 170. The altered
pupil is adapted to cooperate with a first lens system and a second
lens system eccentrically arranged. This represents a significant
improvement with respect to the transmitted light being divided
equally between the near image system 174 and the distant image
system 176. The path of the light rays are shown generally by
dashed lines 186 for the near vision and dashed line 188 for the
distant vision. Again, the disparate images are directed onto
macula 190 of eye 156.
[0137] Typically, the diameter of a lens to be located in the
accessory pupil or the enlarged portion of an elongated vertically
elliptically shaped pupil would be in the order of 2.0 mm to 4
mm.
[0138] FIG. 16 depicts that the artificial lens system 54 of FIG. 3
could likewise be used in the eye having the altered and
reconfigured principal as illustrated in FIG. 16. In FIG. 16, the
macula 190 would receive light ray N.sub.2 from near objects and
light ray D.sub.1 from far objects. Since the near lens 58 has a
prism 68, prism 68 directs light rays from a near object onto a
location superior to the fovea centralis of the macula 190 as
illustrated by N.sub.1 in FIG. 16. Light rays N.sub.2 from a
different near object would be transmitted to the macula.
[0139] FIG. 17a, FIG. 17b and FIG. 17c depict different embodiments
of lens systems adapted for use in either the near or distant lens
system in an artificial lens for practicing this invention. FIG.
17a depicts a lens structure for either one of the near vision
system or distant vision system. The image producing means is
depicted by lens system 200 having a bi-convex lens formed by a
pair of plano-convex lens 202 and 204. Similarly a plano-convex
lens could be used. In FIG. 17a, the bi-convex lens formed by lens
202 and 204 are joined or fused together forming a homogenous lens.
In this embodiment, light rays D.sub.1 from a distant object would
pass through the lens system and be directed onto the fovea
centralis of the macula. Thus, light rays from similar macular
images of the same object would be developed by two eccentric,
independent bi-convex lens system or plano-convex lens system.
[0140] FIG. 17b shows another embodiment of an artificial lens
image system of the present invention showing that one of the
imaging lens could be in the form of a bi-convex lens 210 having a
first plano-convex lens 212, a second plano-convex lens 214 and a
prism 216 positioned therebetween. In practice, these lenses would
fused to make a homogenous lens. By controlling the ratio of the
length of the base to the angle of the edge of the prism, the angle
of incidence of the light ratio shown by D.sub.1, can be controlled
to direct the light rays from a near object onto the macula or to a
position superior to the fovea centralis of the macula. A second
lens system in the form of that of FIG. 17b could be reversed
placing the base of the prism 216 in a position opposite to that
illustrated in FIG. 17b to cause one of the images to be formed at
a location inferior to the fovea centralis of the macula whether
involving the near vision system or the distant vision system.
[0141] FIG. 17c shows another embodiment of the lens system
illustrated in FIG. 4 and the lens body has been modified using
prisms having a larger base. The artificial lens system 220
includes a first plano-convex lens 222 and a second plano-convex
lens 224. Plano-convex lens 222 has a prism lens 226 incorporated
in the back or posterior surface thereof wherein the length of the
base 228 is selected to control the angle of incidence such that
the light rays from a near object is directed at sufficiently
superior of the fovea centralis of the macula to avoid placing
similar blurred images on the fovea centralis of the macula. Light
rays N.sub.2 from a different object would be projected on the
fovea centralis of the macula resulting in disparate macula
images.
[0142] In a similar manner, plano-convex lens 224 has a prism lens
232 affixed to the posterior surface thereof wherein the base 234
of the prism 232 being positioned in an opposed relationship to
that of the base 228 affixed to the first plano-convex lens 222.
Again, the length of the base 234 of prism 232 is selected to be of
a length to cause light rays D.sub.1 from a far object to be
directed at a predetermined location inferior of the fovea
centralis of the macula to avoid placing a similar blurred distant
image onto the fovea centralis of the macula. Light rays D.sub.2
from a different object would be projected on the fovea centralis
of the macula resulting in disparate macula image from the near
vision system and the distant vision system.
[0143] FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an alternative of an artificial
lens for practicing the invention wherein the imaging producing
means defines a first lens system and second lens system which each
include an extended objective lens to increase the amount of light
collection by the artificial lens and passed to the posterior
segment of the eye. FIG. 18 illustrates that the eye 156 has the
artificial lens system shown generally as 300 extending through
iris opening into the anterior chamber thereof. The artificial lens
system 300 includes a first extended objective lens 302 and a
second extended objective lens 304. The objective lens 302 extend
into the anterior chamber of the eye 156. As shown by FIG. 18, the
distant end of each objective lens 302 and 304 terminates in a
surface as illustrated at the distal lens 310 of extended objective
lens 302 and distant lens 314 of the extended objective lens 304.
The distal lens 310 includes a shaped lens/prism member 312 with
the base of the prism in a "base up" position. The distant end of
the distant extended objective lens 304 has a shaped lens/prism
member 316 with the base of the prism being located in a "base
down" position. Although, for purposes of this disclosure, the
lenses are described as separate and opposed; in practical
application, the lens are fused together and homogenous. The effect
of the prism is to change the angle of the ocular lens (posterior
lens) in relationship to the longitudinal axis of the lens system.
The prisms are positioned in an opposed spaced relationship to each
other.
[0144] In the event that the length of the extended objective lens
is of a length which extends through the posterior capsule, a
procedure referred to as capsulorhexis can be performed on the
posterior capsule to form opening in the posterior capsule. In such
event, the posterior end of the lens system would extend into the
vitreous humor.
[0145] FIG. 18 illustrates that the paracentral ray near ("PCRN")
passes through the objective lens 302, the midsection 310, the
shaped lens/prism member 312 and the PCRN is focused onto the
macula 318. In a similar manner, the central ray near ("CRN")
passes through the extended objective lens 302 to the distal end
310 where the image is deflected by the prism to position the CRN
superior of the fovea centralis of the macula 318.
[0146] The far extended objective lens 304 receives the paracentral
ray far ("PCRF") and passes the same through the midsection 314
where the prism 320 then directs the PCRF ray through shaped
lens/prism member 316 onto the macula 318.
[0147] Similarly, the extended objective lens 304 receives the
central ray far ("CRF") and passes the same to the midsection 314
where the prism directs the CRF to a location inferior of the
macula 318.
[0148] FIG. 19 shows another embodiment of the extended objective
lens system of FIG. 19 wherein the midsections 310 and 314 are
terminated by a different lens system. Specifically, midsection 310
of the extended objective lens 302 and midsection 314 of the
extended objective lens 304 are each terminated posteriorly in a
prism 330 at the respective midsections 310 and 314. The bases of
the prisms 330 are positioned in a "base up"/"base down"
relationship as shown in FIG. 19. The prisms each have a posterior
surface 332 for supporting a negative lens 332.
[0149] The light rays pass through the midsection 310 and are
deflected by the prism 330 through the negative lens 334 such that
the light ray CRN is directed superior of the fovea centralis of
the macula and the light ray PCRN is directed onto the fovea
centralis of the macula. By allowing an extension of the lens
systems from the posterior chamber into the anterior chamber as
illustrated in FIG. 18, the following advantages are obtained. The
CRF and PCRF light rays passing through the extended objective lens
304 are directed such that the PCRF light rays go to the fovea
centralis of the macula and the CRF light rays inferior to the
fovea centralis of the macula.
[0150] The lens system 300 provides a greater collection of
possible light. Due to the objective lens in the extension, there
is an increase in the field of vision. Further, by utilizing the
extended objective lens, there is a decrease in the problems of
centering the lens.
[0151] The combination of a plus power objective lens in the
anterior chamber and a minus power ocular lens in the posterior
chamber or vitreous constitutes a totally intraocular galelian
telescope. The purpose of this light gathering and magnification
(enlargement) of the image is for use in patients with macular
degeneration.
[0152] By utilizing different lens structure in FIGS. 18 and 19, it
is possible that specific lens structures could be developed for
special applications for macular degeneration wherein the retinal
image can be spread over more of the retina to stimulate more of
the sending neurons to the brain thereby improving the ability of
the brain to interpret the image.
[0153] By utilizing extended objective lens, the overall size of
the artificial lens base could be made smaller resulting in smaller
incisions needed for insertion.
[0154] In FIG. 20, the artificial lens 340 in the form of an
intraocular lens is implanted in an altered pupil within the eye
156. The artificial lens 340 includes an extended objective lens
342 and a "base up" prism 344 which are adapted to be located to be
in the superior location of the enlarged pupil, such as superior in
the enlarged vertically extending elliptical shaped area of the
natural pupil 170 as illustrated in FIG. 15 which is functionally
equivalent to the accessory pupil. The artificial lens 340 also
includes a plano-convex lens 348 and a "base down" prism 350 which
are adapted to be located in the natural pupil 170. A similar lens
system without prisms for similar macular image is a variation of
this novel concept.
[0155] The artificial lens 340 illustrated in FIG. 20, the PCRN
passes through the extended objective lens 342 and is deflected by
the "base up" prism onto the macula and the CRN is directed to a
location superior of the macula. In this structure, the objective
lens collects more light for near vision due to its extension into
the anterior chamber. The optical surface of the objective lens can
be made larger to create a larger field of vision.
[0156] In the lower section of the artificial lens, the PCRF rays
pass through the plano-convex lens 348 and are directed by the
"base down" prism 350 onto the fovea centralis of the macula. The
CRF rays are passed through the plano-convex lens 348 and are
deflected by the "base down" prism 350 inferior of the fovea
centralis of the macula and the PCRF is directed onto the fovea
centralis of the macula.
[0157] FIG. 21 illustrates in a front plan view artificial lens 340
of FIG. 20. The extended objective lens 342 is positioned on the
plano-convex lens 348 in a superior position on lens 348
(eccentrically arranged). The "base up" prism is located on the
reverse surface of lens 342. The central body lens 348 likewise has
its prism 350 located "base down" on the reverse surface. The
artificial lens 340 includes three haptic members 352 spaced
substantially equal to hold the intraocular lens in the eye as
described hereinbelow.
[0158] In the pictorial representation of FIGS. 22a, 22b and 22c,
various other possible configurations for intraocular lens
utilizing the teaching of this invention are shown. FIG. 22a
illustrates an artificial lens system implanted in an eye 156
wherein the artificial lens has an extended objective lens 360
which is adapted to be located in the accessory pupil 178 and any
other suitable lens may be used in the natural pupil 170. This
arrangement can utilize prisms for disparate macular images and
without prisms for similar macular images.
[0159] FIG. 22b illustrates an artificial lens system implanted in
an eye 156 wherein the artificial lens has extended objective lens
360 and 370 wherein objective lens 360 is adapted to be located in
the accessory pupil and extended objective lens 370 is adapted to
be located in the natural pupil 170. In addition, for a trifocal
lens equivalent, a third extended objective lens 372 can be located
within the natural pupil 170.
[0160] The concept of a trifocal structure illustrated in FIG. 22b
is exemplary, and any artificial lens of the invention can utilize
the trifocal concept.
[0161] FIG. 22c illustrates an artificial lens system implanted in
an eye 156 wherein the artificial lens has an extended objective
lens 370 which is adapted to be located in the natural pupil 170
and any other suitable less may be used in the accessory pupil 178.
These are all variations of eccentric lens systems.
[0162] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an artificial lens in the form of
an intraocular lens 378 having an extended objective lens 374
having a plano-convex lens on the surface and a "base up" prism 382
in the superior location of the lens and an larger extended
objective lens 376 having a plano-convex lens on the surface
located in the inferior location on the lens 378. The diameter of
lens 374 could be in the order of about 2.5 millimeters and the
diameter of lens 376 could be in the order of about 3.0
millimeters.
[0163] The structure of the intraocular lens in FIGS. 23 and 24
permit an additional quantity of light rays to be is directed onto
the macula which counteracts the decreased amount of light
available by using two lens systems.
[0164] FIG. 25 is a pictorial representation of the eye showing the
natural pupil 170 and an accessory pupil 178 having the intraocular
lens 378 of FIG. 23 implanted in the eye. The intraocular lens 378
of FIG. 23 is implanted in the eye with lens 374 being located
posterior to the accessory pupil 178 and lens 376 located posterior
to the natural pupil 170. Again, a prism is used for disparate
macular images and no prism for similar images.
[0165] FIG. 26 is a pictorial representation of the eye showing the
natural pupil 170 being formed into a vertically extending
ellipitically shaped pupil forming an enlarged area 170' which is
in FIG. 25. The intraocular lens 378 of FIG. 23 represented by
dashed lines is implanted in the eye with lens 374 being located in
the enlarged pupil 170' and lens 376 located in the natural pupil
170.
[0166] Referring now to FIG. 27, the embodiment of an intraocular
lens of FIG. 27 is in the form of plano-convex lens 388 having with
an extended objective lens 392 and a "base up" prism 394 located
superiorly on the lens. A plano-convex lens 390 is used for a
distant image. This embodiment produces separate light rays from
another object which is directed onto the macula 34 (disparate
macular image). Similarly, the lens system arrangement can be used
without prisms for similar macular images.
[0167] FIG. 28 is a pictorial representation of an eye having a
natural pupil 170 which is formed into an enlarged pupil 178 having
a vertically extending elliptical shape with the intraocular lens
of FIG. 27 implanted therein. FIG. 28 also shows the various
positions of the upper eyelid shown in the open position
represented by dashed line 160 to pass an image through the
extended objective lens 392. The upper eyelid is also shown in the
blocking position as represented by dashed line 162 wherein light
rays from a near image is a blocked from passing through the
extended objective lens 392. The distant image is passed by lens
390. A similar effect would be obtained with an accessory pupil
used with the lens system with or without a prism.
[0168] FIG. 29a shows a pictorial representation of the eye having
a natural lens 400 in the eye. An intracorneal lens having a
plano-convex lens 402 is located superiorly within the cornea of
the eye to pass light rays from an object through the superior part
of the natural lens 400 and directs the paracentral light rays from
the near object onto the fovea centralis of the macula 34. The
intracorneal lens having the plano-convex lens 402 is eccentric to
the natural lens 400.
[0169] FIGS. 29b and 29c show pictorially alternative arrangements
of the plano-convex lens 402 having a prism 404 or 404'. In FIG.
29b, the prism 404 is mounted "base up" and in FIG. 29c, the prism
404' is mounted "base down".
[0170] In all of these instances, the lens of FIGS. 29a, 29b, and
29c are all arranged eccentrically to the natural lens 400.
[0171] FIG. 30 is a pictorial representation of an eye having a
partial (no superior cut) radial keratotomy having formed in the
cornea thereof seven (7) elongated angularly disposed slits or cuts
406 spaced over less than 360.degree. of the eye (approximately
318.degree. as shown in FIG. 30) leaving the superior location of
the eye untreated with elongated slits or cuts. This untreated area
of the cornea of the eye then has the natural pupil enlarged to
from a vertically extending elongated ellipitically shaped pupil.
Near lens 402 with or without prisms 404 and 404' is implanted in
the enlarged area pupil area for passing a light ray from a near
object through the accessory pupil to the macula.
[0172] These principles apply also to a four (4) cut radial
keratotomy with oblique cuts (at 1:30; 4:30; 7:30 and 10:30
positions having no superior cuts).
Alterated Natural Pupil
[0173] One of the important teachings of the present invention is
that the size and/or shape of a natural pupil can be altered to
accommodate means adapted to be affixed to an eye having multifocal
lens system wherein the principal axes are eccentric, such as for
example, by implantation, intracorneal insertion or corneal
overlay.
[0174] It is envisioned that the natural pupil can be altered using
known techniques such as for example, Yag laser, Argon laser or
other known surgical techniques.
[0175] A Yag laser is typically used for cutting and care must be
taken to insure that the Yag laser does not hit, damage or
perforate the natural crystalline lens.
[0176] An Argon laser is essentially a coagulation device. It is
known that the Argon laser, when directed to the iris distorts the
pupil. This is generally referred to as "puckering".
[0177] Other surgical techniques includes performing a sector
iridectomy which forms a keyhole pupil.
[0178] One method for practicing this invention includes premarking
of the cornea with a corneal marking device of approximately the
same size as the multiple lens system to be affixed to the eye.
After the cornea is so marked, the lens is inserted under the
marker. The marker should be of sufficient dimension to mark the
cornea sufficiently superior to the natural pupil to insure that
the multiple lens system to be located in the altered pupil will be
located at the desired location in the altered pupil. Thereafter,
the pupil can be further altered as desired using the selected
technique to allow entrance of light into the posterior segment of
the eye from the near lens system located superior to the natural
pupil.
[0179] It is also envisioned that the artificial lens implanted
into the eye having an altered natural pupil (either an accessory
pupil or enlarged pupil) may be a multiple optical system having
two identical optical or lens systems in an eccentric arrangement.
The superiorly positioned optical system is adapted to be
preferably located in the altered portion of the pupil and the
second optical system would be located in the natural pupil.
[0180] FIG. 31 is a pictorial representation of a natural pupil,
shown by dashed line 410, which has been substantially uniformly
surgically enlarged causing at least a portion thereof superior to
the eye to be enlarged. An artificial lens using the teachings of
the present invention is ideally suited for use in such an enlarged
pupil.,
[0181] FIG. 32 is a pictorial representation of a natural pupil,
shown by dashed line 412, which has been surgically enlarged by
altering the natural pupil of the eye such that substantially all
of the alteration is essentially superior to the eye to be
enlarged.
[0182] FIG. 33 is a pictorial representation of a natural pupil,
shown by dashed line 414, which has been surgically enlarged by
forming in the natural pupil a supplemental or accessory opening
which is located to be superior to the eye.
[0183] FIG. 34 is a pictorial representation of a lens 418 of the
prior art located with the natural pupil of an eye focusing an
image of an object on the macula 422 of an eye. In the lens 418,
the diameter of the natural pupil 420 and the diameter of the lens
418 are substantially equal.
[0184] FIG. 35 is a pictorial representation of an enlarged natural
pupil defining an opening 426 and one embodiment of an artificial
lens 430 of the present invention located within the eye in the
posterior chamber 432. The artificial lens system 430 has a first
lens system 440 and a second lens system 442. The second lens
system 442 is located or situated substantially within the opening
426. The principal axis of each optical lens system 440 are
eccentric to each other. The distance between each principal axis
is selected to enable at least one of the first optical lens system
440 and the second optical lens system 442 to be operable within
the enlarged pupil for directing light rays from each image of each
lens of the first optical lens system and second optical lens
system onto a macula of an eye.
[0185] FIG. 36 is a pictorial representation of an enlarged natural
pupil having an opening 426 within yet another embodiment of an
artificial lens system shwon generally by 446 located within the
eye in the posterior chamber 432. The artificial lens system 432
has a first lens system 450 having a prism and a second lens system
452, the second lens system 452 has a prism 456 located adjacent a
selected edge of the second lens system 452. In the embodiment of
FIG. 36, the principal axis of each optical lens system 450 and 452
are eccentric to each other. The distance between each principal
axis is selected to enable at least one of the first optical lens
system 450 and the second optical lens system 452 to be situated
within the opening 426 for directing light rays from each image of
each lens of the first optical lens system 450 and second optical
lens system 452 onto a fovea centralis of the macula of an eye.
[0186] FIG. 37 is a pictorial representation of still yet another
embodiment of an artificial lens shown generally as 470 having a
first lens system having light gathering lens 472 and a second lens
system 474. In the embodiment of FIG. 37, the principal axis of
each optical lens system 472 and 474 are eccentric to each other.
The second lens system 472 is siutated within the opening formed in
the natural pupil as shown by bracket 478. The distance between
each principal axis is selected to enable at least one of the first
lens system 472 and the second optical lens system 474 to be
situated within the opening 478 of an enlarged pupil for directing
light rays from each image of each lens of the first optical lens
system 472 and second optical lens system 474 onto a fovea
centralis of the macula of an eye;
[0187] FIG. 38 is a pictorial representation of still yet another
embodiment of an artificial lens shown generally as 482 having a
first lens system 484 having extended objective lens and a second
lens system 486. In the embodiment of FIG. 38, the principal axis
of each optical lens system 484 and 486 are eccentric to each
other. The distance between each principal axis is selected such
that at least one one of the first optical lens system 484 and the
second optical lens system 486 are situated within an opening shown
by bracket 488 of an enlarged pupil for directing light rays from
each image of each lens of the first optical lens system 484 and
second optical lens system 486 onto a fovea centralis of the macula
of an eye.
[0188] FIG. 39a is a pictorial representation of an eye having an
enlarged natural pupil defining an opening 488 and the artificial
lens shown generally as 490 wherein the optical system has an
eccentric lens which is in the form of a corneal lens 492 located
on the cornea of an eye. In the alternative, the optical lens maybe
in the form of an intracorneal lens, shown by a dashed line 494,
located with the cornea or intracorneal of an eye.
[0189] FIG. 39b is a pictorial representation of an eye having an
enlarged natshown which is in the form of a contact lens 510 which
is located on the cornea of an eye.
[0190] The enlarged natural pupil, which may be either an accessory
pupil or enlarged pupil, cooperates with an optical system having
at least two optical lens systems in an eccentric arrangement. In
the method for forming an opening in a natural pupil, the opening
accommodates at least one lens system in an artificial lens having
at least one lens located superiorly and within the opening to
direct light rays to a fovea centralis of the macula
[0191] By utilizing the teaching of the present invention, the
preferred embodiment uses prisms within the eccentrically arranged
lens system to create light rays for disparate macular images which
are directed onto the fovea centralis of the macula of the retina
by the lens system at any given time while concurrently diverting
blurred or otherwise uninterruptable light rays of the images to a
location which is at least one of inferior to or superior to the
fovea centralis of the macula. Also, the positioning of the lens
system within the pupillary zone may allow for a partial or a
complete elimination of one of the optical systems by adjacent
structures such as the eyelids and/or eyelashes. Several examples
are shown herein including, for example, the illustrations in FIGS.
3 and 16.
[0192] Thus, the use of a prism in the optical systems for near
vision optically separates the light rays of the distant lens
system of the optical systems in the intraocular lens or other
artificial lens. The use of a prism creates disparity of the
highest order by producing two completely different light ray paths
from eccentric lens system. Also, the prism can be selected to
cause the light rays or two images to be substantially superimposed
or superimposed on the fovae centralis of the macula.
[0193] This is different than simultaneous vision which is produced
by two almost identical images (difference in size) of the same
object passed by a concentric lens systems. Eccentricity without
prisms also creates two almost identical images but also provides
the possibility of the user selectively covering one of the lens
systems with eyelids or eyelashes.
[0194] The use of a prism in the optical system for far vision
optically separates light rays for the retinal images of the
optical systems in the same manner thereby creating a disparity of
the highest order in the form of two completely different retinal
images from different objects.
[0195] It is envisioned that the artificial lens of the present
invention can be incorporated into an optical lens system having a
lens body wherein the lens body including the imaging systems are
implanted onto the cornea or intracorneal of the eye and are formed
of a on-lay material which is compatible with the epithelial cells
growing there across to implant the optical lens systems in a
subepithelial location.
[0196] By utilizing certain teachings of the present invention, it
is possible to make an extremely small intraocular lens which can
be folded or manipulated in such a manner that the same can be
passed through a very small incision in the eye and implanted into
the anterior or posterior chamber of the eye through the small
incision.
[0197] Further, by proper training of the patient or user, the user
can utilize the eyelid motion to minimize or eliminate use of one
of the lens systems as desired. As a result, the retina would be
able to dark adapt more easily and thereby become more sensitive to
the available light.
[0198] The artificial lens illustrated herein utilizes several
discreet lens systems elements to define each of the imaging
systems. However, using known techniques, the lens systems could be
molded to be an integral artificial lens. Composite lens system
having a predetermined shape so that the same can be positioned
within the eye. For example, the lens system could be molded to
form the extended objective lens as illustrated in FIG. 18 by using
known techniques such that the lens of form integral with the lens
body. Various types of material having different selected angles of
incident and angles of refraction could be utilized for the lens
system.
[0199] As discussed in connection with the description of FIGS. 13,
14 and 15 hereinbefore, the pupil of the eye is altered and
configured into preferably a generally elongated vertically
extending elliptical shape. The alteration and reconstruction of
the pupil can be formed in one of two ways. The pupil alteration
can have its size, shape, position or configuration altered (which
is covered generically by the word "altered" as used herein) to
improve or perfect the optical systems by performing a surgical
alteration, such as an iridectomy. The surgical alteration would be
accomplished in the usual way for performing intraocular surgery.
This could involve either a sphincterotomy or excision of a portion
of iris to form an accessory pupil.
[0200] Also, the alteration could be formed with a laser. An Argon
laser could be utilized to cause contraction of the iris tissue
peripheral to the pupil resulting in vertical oval shaped
pupil.
[0201] Another type of laser that can be utilized for performing a
laser alteration is a Yag laser. By utilizing a Yag laser, the
laser beam actually cuts the iris sphincter, thereby enlarging the
overall size as well as configuration of the pupil. This allows for
selectively enlarging the pupil the one direction, but not
significantly shifting the overall pupil. By utilizing the amount
of tissue actually cut by the Yag laser, the pupil size can be
determined.
[0202] Another surgical step that could be utilized is that the
recipient's cornea could be marked with a marking ring to assure
proper location of the artificial lens within the stroma. By
marking the cornea surface with an indentation ring, the cornea can
be precisely marked to divide the optical zone of the cornea such
that one portion of the optical zone can be used for the near focus
optical system while the other portion is to be used for the
distance focusing system.
[0203] In the present invention, when an image is directed onto the
retina at a location superior of the fovea centralis of the macula,
the brain perceives the image as in the down position. The user
would spontaneously turn the eye downward to look through the near
lens system. This movement would "tuck" the distant lens system
behind the lower lid.
[0204] In the alternative, when an image is directed onto the
retina at a location inferior to the fovea centralis of the macula
as would be the case in the distance lens system with the base down
prism, the brain perceives the image as in the up position. The
user would spontaneously turn the eye upward to look through the
distant lens system and the upward movement would "tuck" the near
lens system behind the upper lid.
[0205] Using these characteristics, the artificial lens can be
specifically designed for a patient's special requirements. The
typical dimension of an artificial lens would be in the range of 5
mm to 6 mm diameter, also, the lens could be oblong with a minor
diameter of about 3.5 mm to about 4 mm and a major diameter of
about 6 mm.
[0206] Also, the distant lens could have a diameter of about 5 mm
to 6 mm with the near lens being smaller, say in the order of 2 mm
to 3 mm and be located superiorly in the distant lens in an
eccentric relationship.
[0207] An intraocular lens could have the central body functioning
as the distant lens system with a diameter in the order of 3.5 mm
and the near lens system in an eccentric arrangement having a
diameter of about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm located superiorly in the
lens body.
[0208] Materials used in artificial lens for producing this
invention require a high index of refraction to obtain the plus
power in the lens for near vision. The curvature of the front
surface of the cornea could be changed to obtain more plus power.
Changing the curvature of the front surface of the cornea is an
alternate method that could be used to effect more plus power.
[0209] Suitable materials would include those materials that are
bio-compatible and which do have a high index of refraction,
examples of such material are Polysulfone, Polycarbonate,
Fluorinated Silicone-PMMA Lens combination and other suitable
bio-compatible materials.
Contact Lens Having an Eccentric Optical System
[0210] The present invention has application for use as a contact
lens having at least a first lens system and a second lens system
which are eccentric having a selected distance between the
principal axis of each lens system. In an application where a
contact lens is to be used in an eye with a natural pupil,
preferably at least one of the first and second lens system has a
prism.
[0211] In an application where a contact lens is to be used in an
eye having an enlarged natural pupil defining an opening, the first
optical lens system and the second optical lens system are
eccentric and the distance between the principal axis of each lens
system is selected to situate at least one lems system in the
opening. Preferably, the distance between the principal axes is at
least equal to about the geometrical dimension of the natural
pupil. The actual distance between the principal axes is selected
to enable at least one of the first optical lens system and the
second optical lens system to be situated within the enlarged pupil
for directing light rays from each image of each lens of the first
optical lens system and second optical lens system onto a fovea
centralis of the macula of an eye. This structure enables the used
to rotate the eye rotating one of the first optical lens system to
be under either the upper or lower eyelid depending on which
optical lens system is to be occluded.
[0212] In the event that the images are to be shifted to be
directed superior or inferior to the fovas centralis of the macula
or are to be substantially superimposed or superimposed on each
other on the fovae centralis of the macula, a prism may e used on
one or both of the optical lens system.
[0213] FIG. 40 is a pictorial representation of a contact lens 500
for use in an eye having a natural pupil 500 and an opening 526
formed in the natural pupil 500. The contact lens lens 500 has a
body 502 having a first optical lens 520 and a second optical lens
524 formed on a slightly raised, generally triangular shaped
anterior surface 504 of the lens body 502. The bottom surface 528
of the lens 502 may be shaped to provide a guiding surface for the
lower eyelid to enable the eye having the contact lens 500 to be
rotated downward placing the first lens system under the bottom
eyelid.
[0214] The embodiment shown in FIG. 40 has utility as a hard
contact lens. The contact lens may be fabricated from materials
well known to those skilled in the art such as, without limitation,
polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). paragon RGP materials or fluorinated
siloxane acrylate.
[0215] FIG. 41 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment
of a contact lens 500 having a triangular shaped supporting base
member 530 supporting a first optical lens 520 and a second optical
lens 524 formed on body 502 having a slightly raised generally
circular shaped anterior surface 531 of the contact lens body 502.
In this embodiment, the contact lens 500 includes a pair of spaced
enlarged bottom sections 532 to weight the bottom 534 of the lens
500 so as to keep the lens system 520 situated within the opening
520. The bottom 534 has been chopped or shaped to provide a guiding
surface for the lower eyelid to enable the eye having the lens to
be rotated downward placing the first lens system under the bottom
eyelid.
[0216] The embodiment of FIG. 41 has utility as a soft contact
lens. The contact lens may be abricated from materials well known
to those skilled in the art such as, without limitation, PMMA or
selected polymers, one example of which is phemfilcon, a
polymer.
[0217] The teaching of the present invention has utility as shown
by the various embodiments disclosed herein, and variants of
artifical lens system are envisioned using the teachings of the
present invention, all such variants are envisioned to be covered
by the teaching hereof. The structure of the artificial lens system
as disclosed herein is adapted to have a lens system situated in an
opening formed wihtin a natural pupil. Such artifical lens system
can be fabricated into a lens structureknown in the art or into
improved artifical lens systems having at least two, or even two or
more, independent, eccentric lens system wherein at least one or
more of such lens systewm are situated within the opening formed
within the natural pupil.
[0218] All such applications are envisioned to be within the scope
of the present invention.
* * * * *