U.S. patent application number 17/660245 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-04 for non-repeating echelettes and related intraocular lenses for presbyopia treatment.
The applicant listed for this patent is AMO Groningen B.V.. Invention is credited to Robert Rosen, Hendrik A. Weeber.
Application Number | 20220244440 17/660245 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006276764 |
Filed Date | 2022-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220244440 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Weeber; Hendrik A. ; et
al. |
August 4, 2022 |
NON-REPEATING ECHELETTES AND RELATED INTRAOCULAR LENSES FOR
PRESBYOPIA TREATMENT
Abstract
Apparatuses, systems and methods for providing improved
ophthalmic lenses, particularly intraocular lenses (IOLs).
Exemplary ophthalmic lenses can include a plurality of echelettes
arranged around the optical axis, having a profile in r-squared
space. The echelettes may be non-repeating over the optical
zone.
Inventors: |
Weeber; Hendrik A.;
(Groningen, NL) ; Rosen; Robert; (Groningen,
NL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
AMO Groningen B.V. |
Groningen |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006276764 |
Appl. No.: |
17/660245 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16022599 |
Jun 28, 2018 |
11327210 |
|
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17660245 |
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62527720 |
Jun 30, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02C 2202/20 20130101;
A61F 2240/001 20130101; A61F 2/145 20130101; A61F 2/1654 20130101;
A61F 2/1618 20130101; G02B 5/1895 20130101; G02C 7/06 20130101;
G02C 7/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G02B 5/18 20060101
G02B005/18; G02C 7/04 20060101 G02C007/04; A61F 2/16 20060101
A61F002/16; G02C 7/06 20060101 G02C007/06 |
Claims
1. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optic including a first
surface and a second surface each disposed about an optical axis
and extending radially outward from the optical axis to an outer
periphery of the optic, the first surface facing opposite the
second surface and joining to the second surface at the outer
periphery of the optic; and a diffractive profile imposed on the
first surface and including a plurality of echelettes, wherein: at
least one of the plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the
first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery of
the optic.
2. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein at least two of the
plurality of echelettes each do not repeat on the first surface
between the optical axis and the outer periphery of the optic.
3. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein at least three of the
plurality of echelettes each do not repeat on the first surface
between the optical axis and the outer periphery of the optic.
4. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least three echelettes.
5. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least one echelette that repeats on the
first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery of
the optic.
6. The ophthalmic lens of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes a set of at least two echelettes, the set being
repeated on the first surface between the optical axis and the
outer periphery of the optic.
7. The ophthalmic lens of claim 6, wherein the set being repeated
on the first surface forms a repeated set, the repeated set being
apodized.
8. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optical surface disposed about
an optical axis, the optical surface including a central zone
extending radially outward from the optical axis to a radial
distance of 1.5 millimeters; and a diffractive profile imposed on
the optical surface, and including a plurality of echelettes
disposed on the central zone, wherein: at least one of the
plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the central zone.
9. The ophthalmic lens of claim 8, wherein at least two of the
plurality of echelettes each do not repeat on the central zone.
10. The ophthalmic lens of claim 8, wherein at least three of the
plurality of echelettes each do not repeat on the central zone.
11. The ophthalmic lens of claim 8, wherein each echelette on the
central zone does not repeat on the central zone.
12. The ophthalmic lens of claim 8, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least three echelettes disposed on the
central zone.
13. The ophthalmic lens of claim 8, wherein the central zone is a
first zone, and the optical surface includes a second zone
extending radially outward from the central zone to an outer
periphery of the optical surface, and the diffractive profile
includes a plurality of echelettes disposed on the second zone,
wherein at least one of the plurality of echelettes disposed on the
second zone repeats on the second zone.
14. The ophthalmic lens of claim 13, wherein the plurality of
echelettes disposed on the second zone includes a set of at least
two echelettes, the set being repeated on the second zone.
15. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optical surface disposed
about an optical axis, the optical surface including a central zone
extending radially outward from the optical axis to a radial
distance of 2.5 millimeters; and a diffractive profile imposed on
the optical surface, and including a plurality of echelettes
disposed on the central zone, wherein: at least one of the
plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the central zone.
16. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein at least two of the
plurality of echelettes each do not repeat on the central zone.
17. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein at least three of the
plurality of echelettes each do not repeat on the central zone.
18. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein each echelette on the
central zone does not repeat on the central zone.
19. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least three echelettes disposed on the
central zone.
20. The ophthalmic lens of claim 15, wherein the central zone is a
first zone, and the optical surface includes a second zone
extending radially outward from the central zone to an outer
periphery of the optical surface, and the diffractive profile
includes a plurality of echelettes disposed on the second zone,
wherein at least one of the plurality of echelettes disposed on the
second zone repeats on the second zone.
21. The ophthalmic lens of claim 20, wherein the plurality of
echelettes disposed on the second zone includes a set of at least
two echelettes, the set being repeated on the second zone.
22. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optic including a first
surface and a second surface each disposed about an optical axis
and extending radially outward from the optical axis to an outer
periphery of the optic, the first surface facing opposite the
second surface and joining to the second surface at the outer
periphery of the optic; and a diffractive profile imposed on the
first surface and including a plurality of echelettes, wherein: at
least one of the plurality of echelettes has a profile in r-squared
space that is different than a profile in r-squared space of any
other echelette that is disposed on the first surface between the
optical axis and the outer periphery of the optic.
23. The ophthalmic lens of claim 22, wherein at least three
echelettes are disposed on the first surface between the optical
axis and the outer periphery of the optic.
24. The ophthalmic lens of claim 22, wherein at least two of the
plurality of echelettes disposed on the first surface between the
optical axis and the outer periphery of the optic each has a
profile in r-squared space that is different than a profile in
r-squared space of any other echelette that is disposed on the
first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery of
the optic.
25. The ophthalmic lens of claim 22, wherein at least three of the
plurality of echelettes disposed on the first surface between the
optical axis and the outer periphery of the optic each has a
profile in r-squared space that is different than a profile in
r-squared space of any other echelette that is disposed on the
first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery of
the optic.
26. The ophthalmic lens of claim 22, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least one echelette that repeats on the
first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery of
the optic.
27. The ophthalmic lens of claim 22, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes a set of at least two echelettes, the set being
repeated on the first surface between the optical axis and the
outer periphery of the optic.
28. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optical surface disposed
about an optical axis, the optical surface including a central zone
extending radially outward from the optical axis to a radial
distance of 1.5 millimeters; and a diffractive profile imposed on
the optical surface, and including a plurality of echelettes
disposed on the central zone, wherein: at least one of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone.
29. The ophthalmic lens of claim 28, wherein at least three
echelettes are disposed on the central zone.
30. The ophthalmic lens of claim 28, wherein at least two of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone each has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone.
31. The ophthalmic lens of claim 28, wherein at least three of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone each has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone.
32. The ophthalmic lens of claim 28, wherein the central zone is a
first zone, and the optical surface includes a second zone
extending radially outward from the central zone to an outer
periphery of the optical surface, and the diffractive profile
includes a plurality of echelettes disposed on the second zone,
wherein at least one of the plurality of echelettes disposed on the
second zone repeats on the second zone.
33. The ophthalmic lens of claim 28, wherein the plurality of
echelettes disposed on the second zone includes a set of at least
two echelettes, the set being repeated on the second zone.
34. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optical surface disposed
about an optical axis, the optical surface including a central zone
extending radially outward from the optical axis to a radial
distance of 2.5 millimeters; and a diffractive profile imposed on
the optical surface, and including a plurality of echelettes
disposed on the central zone, wherein: at least one of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone.
35. The ophthalmic lens of claim 34, wherein at least three
echelettes are disposed on the central zone.
36. The ophthalmic lens of claim 34, wherein at least two of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone each has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone.
37. The ophthalmic lens of claim 34, wherein at least three of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone each has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone.
38. The ophthalmic lens of claim 34, wherein the central zone is a
first zone, and the optical surface includes a second zone
extending radially outward from the central zone to an outer
periphery of the optical surface, and the diffractive profile
includes a plurality of echelettes disposed on the second zone,
wherein at least one of the plurality of echelettes disposed on the
second zone repeats on the second zone.
39. The ophthalmic lens of claim 38, wherein the plurality of
echelettes disposed on the second zone includes a set of at least
two echelettes, the set being repeated on the second zone.
40. A method of designing an intraocular lens, the method
comprising: defining an evaluation aperture for an optic; defining
a diffractive profile including: a plurality of echelettes disposed
on an optical surface of the optic, and at least one of the
plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the optical surface
within the evaluation aperture; and generating a diffractive lens
surface based on the diffractive profile.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein the evaluation aperture
comprises a zone extending radially outward from an optical axis of
the optic to a radial distance of 1.5 millimeters.
42. The method of claim 40, wherein the evaluation aperture
comprises a zone extending radially outward from an optical axis of
the optic to a radial distance of 2.5 millimeters.
43. The method of claim 40, wherein the evaluation aperture
comprises an annular zone disposed about an optical axis of the
optic.
44. A manufacturing system for making an ophthalmic lens, the
system comprising: an input that accepts an ophthalmic lens
prescription for a patient eye; a first module configured to
generate a diffractive profile based on the ophthalmic lens
prescription, wherein the diffractive profile includes: a plurality
of echelettes disposed on an optical surface, and at least one of
the plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the optical surface
within an evaluation aperture; and a manufacturing assembly that
fabricates the ophthalmic lens based on the diffractive
profile.
45. The manufacturing system of claim 44, wherein the optical
surface is disposed about an optical axis, and the evaluation
aperture comprises a zone on the optical surface extending radially
outward from the optical axis to a radial distance of 1.5
millimeters.
46. The manufacturing system of claim 44, wherein the optical
surface is disposed about an optical axis, and the evaluation
aperture comprises a zone on the optical surface extending radially
outward from the optical axis to a radial distance of 2.5
millimeters.
47. The manufacturing system of claim 44, wherein the optical
surface is disposed about an optical axis, and the evaluation
aperture comprises an annular zone on the optical surface disposed
about an optical axis of the optic.
48. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optical surface disposed
about an optical axis; and a diffractive profile imposed on the
optical surface, and including a plurality of echelettes, and one
of the plurality of echelettes: is repeated on the optical surface,
does not form part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on
the optical surface, and is not repeated in any adjacent
echelette.
49. The ophthalmic lens of claim 48, wherein the one of the
plurality of echelettes is repeated on the optical surface at least
twice.
50. The ophthalmic lens of claim 48, wherein the optical surface is
a first surface of an optic, and the optic includes a second
surface disposed about the optical axis, the first surface and the
second surface each extending radially outward from the optical
axis to an outer periphery of the optic, the first surface facing
opposite the second surface and joining to the second surface at
the outer periphery of the optic.
51. The ophthalmic lens of claim 50, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least one echelette that does not repeat on
the first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery
of the optic.
52. The ophthalmic lens of claim 50, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least two echelettes that each do not repeat
on the first surface between the optical axis and the outer
periphery of the optic.
53. The ophthalmic lens of claim 48, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes a set of at least two adjacent echelettes, the
set of at least two adjacent echelettes being repeated on the
optical surface.
54. An ophthalmic lens comprising: an optical surface disposed
about an optical axis; and a diffractive profile imposed on the
optical surface, and including a plurality of echelettes, at least
two adjacent echelettes of the plurality of echelettes forming a
set of echelettes, and the set: does not form part of a greater set
of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface, is
repeated on the optical surface to form one or more multiples of
the set on the optical surface, and is separated from each of the
one or more multiples of the set by at least one echelette.
55. The ophthalmic lens of claim 54, wherein the set is repeated on
the optical surface to form at least two multiples of the set on
the optical surface.
56. The ophthalmic lens of claim 54, wherein the set is separated
from each of the one or more multiples of the set by at least two
echelettes.
57. The ophthalmic lens of claim 54, wherein at least three
adjacent echelettes of the plurality of echelettes form the set of
echelettes.
58. The ophthalmic lens of claim 54, wherein the optical surface is
a first surface of an optic, and the optic includes a second
surface disposed about the optical axis, the first surface and the
second surface each extending radially outward from the optical
axis to an outer periphery of the optic, the first surface facing
opposite the second surface and joining to the second surface at
the outer periphery of the optic.
59. The ophthalmic lens of claim 58, wherein the plurality of
echelettes includes at least one echelette that does not repeat on
the first surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery
of the optic.
60. A method of designing an intraocular lens, the method
comprising: defining a diffractive profile including a plurality of
echelettes disposed on an optical surface, and one of the plurality
of echelettes: is repeated on the optical surface, does not form
part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical
surface, and is not repeated in any adjacent echelette; and
generating a diffractive lens surface based on the diffractive
profile.
61. A method of designing an intraocular lens, the method
comprising: defining a diffractive profile including a plurality of
echelettes disposed on an optical surface, at least two adjacent
echelettes of the plurality of echelettes forming a set of
echelettes, and the set: does not form part of a greater set of
adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface, is
repeated on the optical surface to form one or more multiples of
the set on the optical surface, and is separated from each of the
one or more multiples of the set by at least one echelette; and
generating a diffractive lens surface based on the diffractive
profile.
62. A manufacturing system for making an ophthalmic lens, the
system comprising: an input that accepts an ophthalmic lens
prescription for a patient eye; a first module configured to
generate a diffractive profile based on the ophthalmic lens
prescription, wherein the diffractive profile includes: a plurality
of echelettes disposed on an optical surface, and one of the
plurality of echelettes: is repeated on the optical surface, does
not form part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the
optical surface, and is not repeated in any adjacent echelette; and
a manufacturing assembly that fabricates the ophthalmic lens based
on the diffractive profile.
63. A manufacturing system for making an ophthalmic lens, the
system comprising: an input that accepts an ophthalmic lens
prescription for a patient eye; a first module configured to
generate a diffractive profile based on the ophthalmic lens
prescription, wherein the diffractive profile includes: a plurality
of echelettes disposed on an optical surface, at least two adjacent
echelettes of the plurality of echelettes forming a set of
echelettes, and the set: does not form part of a greater set of
adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface, is
repeated on the optical surface to form one or more multiples of
the set on the optical surface, and is separated from each of the
one or more multiples of the set by at least one echelette; and a
manufacturing assembly that fabricates the ophthalmic lens based on
the diffractive profile.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE AND RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of and claims priority to
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/022,599, filed Jun. 28, 2018,
which claims priority to, and the benefit of, under U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) of U.S. Provisional Appl. No. 62/527,720, filed on Jun. 30,
2017, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to vision
treatment techniques and in particular, to ophthalmic lenses such
as, for example, contact lenses, corneal inlays or onlays, or
intraocular lenses (IOLs) including, for example, phakic IOLs and
piggyback IOLs (i.e. IOLs implanted in an eye already having an
IOL).
[0003] Presbyopia is a condition that affects the accommodation
properties of the eye. As objects move closer to a young, properly
functioning eye, the effects of ciliary muscle contraction and
zonular relaxation allow the lens of the eye to change shape, and
thus increase its optical power and ability to focus at near
distances. This accommodation can allow the eye to focus and
refocus between near and far objects.
[0004] Presbyopia normally develops as a person ages, and is
associated with a natural progressive loss of accommodation. The
presbyopic eye often loses the ability to rapidly and easily
refocus on objects at varying distances. The effects of presbyopia
usually become noticeable after the age of 45 years. By the age of
65 years, the crystalline lens has often lost almost all elastic
properties and has only a limited ability to change shape.
[0005] Along with reductions in accommodation of the eye, age may
also induce clouding of the lens due to the formation of a
cataract. A cataract may form in the hard central nucleus of the
lens, in the softer peripheral cortical portion of the lens, or at
the back of the lens. Cataracts can be treated by the replacement
of the cloudy natural lens with an artificial lens. An artificial
lens replaces the natural lens in the eye, with the artificial lens
often being referred to as an intraocular lens or "IOL".
[0006] Monofocal IOLs are intended to provide vision correction at
one distance only, usually the far focus. At the very least, since
a monofocal IOL provides vision treatment at only one distance and
since the typical correction is for far distance, spectacles are
usually needed for good vision at near distances and sometimes for
good vision at intermediate distances. The term "near vision"
generally corresponds to vision provided when objects are at a
distance from the subject eye at equal; or less than 1.5 feet. The
term "distant vision" generally corresponds to vision provided when
objects are at a distance of at least about 5-6 feet or greater.
The term "intermediate vision" corresponds to vision provided when
objects are at a distance of about 1.5 feet to about 5-6 feet from
the subject eye. Such characterizations of near, intermediate, and
far vision correspond to those addressed in Morlock R, Wirth R J,
Tally S R, Garufis C, Heichel C W D, Patient-Reported Spectacle
Independence Questionnaire (PRSIQ): Development and Validation. Am
J Ophthalmology 2017; 178:101-114.
[0007] There have been various attempts to address limitations
associated with monofocal IOLs. For example, multifocal IOLs have
been proposed that deliver, in principle, two foci, one near and
one far, optionally with some degree of intermediate focus. Such
multifocal, or bifocal, IOLs are intended to provide good vision at
two distances, and include both refractive and diffractive
multifocal IOLs. In some instances, a multifocal IOL intended to
correct vision at two distances may provide a near (add) power of
about 3.0 or 4.0 diopters.
[0008] Multifocal IOLs may, for example, rely on a diffractive
optical surface to direct portions of the light energy toward
differing focal distances, thereby allowing the patient to clearly
see both near and far objects. Multifocal ophthalmic lenses
(including contact lenses or the like) have also been proposed for
treatment of presbyopia without removal of the natural crystalline
lens. Diffractive optical surfaces, either monofocal or multifocal,
may also be configured to provide reduced chromatic aberration.
[0009] Diffractive monofocal and multifocal lenses can make use of
a material having a given refractive index and a surface curvature
which provide a refractive power. Diffractive lenses have a
diffractive profile which confers the lens with a diffractive power
that contributes to the overall optical power of the lens. The
diffractive profile is typically characterized by a number of
diffractive zones. When used for ophthalmic lenses these zones are
typically annular lens zones, or echelettes, spaced about the
optical axis of the lens. Each echelette may be defined by an
optical zone, a transition zone between the optical zone and an
optical zone of an adjacent echelette, and an echelette geometry.
The echelette geometry includes an inner and outer diameter and a
shape or slope of the optical zone, a height or step height, and a
shape of the transition zone. The surface area or diameter of the
echelettes largely determines the diffractive power(s) of the lens
and the step height of the transition between echelettes largely
determines the light distribution between the different powers.
Together, these echelettes form a diffractive profile.
[0010] Diffractive multifocal lenses may have some form of
apodization, e.g. as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,142.
Apodization is achieved by subsequently reducing the step height of
the adjacent echelettes (bifocal), or adjacent sets of echelettes
(trifocal or quadrifocal). The echelettes follow a general rule or
equation, having the stepheight as the only variable. Therefore,
this specific application is considered as a repeating
structure.
[0011] A multifocal diffractive profile of the lens may be used to
mitigate presbyopia by providing two or more optical powers; for
example, one for near vision and one for far vision. The lenses may
also take the form of an intraocular lens placed within the
capsular bag of the eye, replacing the original lens, or placed in
front of the natural crystalline lens. The lenses may also be in
the form of a contact lens, most commonly a bifocal contact lens,
or in any other form mentioned herein.
[0012] Although multifocal ophthalmic lenses lead to improved
quality of vision for many patients, additional improvements would
be beneficial. For example, some pseudophakic patients experience
undesirable visual effects (dysphotopsia), e.g. glare or halos.
Halos may arise when light from the unused focal image creates an
out-of-focus image that is superimposed on the used focal image.
For example, if light from a distant point source is imaged onto
the retina by the distant focus of a bifocal IOL, the near focus of
the IOL will simultaneously superimpose a defocused image on top of
the image formed by the distant focus. This defocused image may
manifest itself in the form of a ring of light surrounding the
in-focus image, and is referred to as a halo. Another area of
improvement revolves around the typical bifocality of multifocal
lenses. While multifocal ophthalmic lenses typically provide
adequate near and far vision, intermediate vision may be
compromised.
[0013] A lens with an extended range of vision may thus provide
certain patients the benefits of good vision at a range of
distances, while having reduced or no dysphotopsia. Various
techniques for extending the depth of focus of an IOL have been
proposed. For example, some approaches are based on a bulls-eye
refractive principle, and involve a central zone with a slightly
increased power. Other techniques include an asphere or include
refractive zones with different refractive zonal powers.
[0014] Although certain proposed treatments may provide some
benefit to patients in need thereof, further advances would be
desirable. For example, it would be desirable to provide improved
IOL systems and methods that confer enhanced image quality across a
wide and extended range of foci without dysphotopsia. Embodiments
of the present invention provide solutions that address the
problems described above, and hence provide answers to at least
some of these outstanding needs.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0015] Embodiments herein described include IOLs with a first
surface and a second surface disposed about an optical axis, and a
diffractive profile imposed on one of the first surface or the
second surface. The diffractive profile consists of a plurality of
echelettes arranged around the optical axis, having a profile in
r-squared space. The echelettes may be non-repeating over the
optical zone considered for vision.
[0016] Embodiments herein described include IOLs including an optic
having a first surface and a second surface each disposed about an
optical axis and extending radially outward from the optical axis
to an outer periphery of the optic. The first surface faces
opposite the second surface and joins to the second surface at the
outer periphery of the optic. A diffractive profile is imposed on
the first surface and includes a plurality of echelettes. At least
one of the plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the first
surface between the optical axis and the outer periphery of the
optic.
[0017] Embodiments herein described include IOLs having an optical
surface disposed about an optical axis, the optical surface
including a central zone extending radially outward from the
optical axis to a radial distance of 1.5 millimeters. A diffractive
profile is imposed on the optical surface, and includes a plurality
of echelettes disposed on the central zone. At least one of the
plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the central zone. In one
embodiment, the central zone may extend to a radial distance of 2.5
millimeters. In one embodiment, the central zone may extend outward
from the optical axis to a radial distance of 0.5 millimeters from
the outer periphery of the optic.
[0018] Embodiments herein described include IOLs including an optic
having a first surface and a second surface each disposed about an
optical axis and extending radially outward from the optical axis
to an outer periphery of the optic. The first surface faces
opposite the second surface and joins to the second surface at the
outer periphery of the optic. A diffractive profile is imposed on
the first surface and includes a plurality of echelettes. At least
one of the plurality of echelettes has a profile in r-squared space
that is different than a profile in r-squared space of any other
echelette that is disposed on the first surface between the optical
axis and the outer periphery of the optic.
[0019] Embodiments herein described include IOLs having an optical
surface disposed about an optical axis, the optical surface
including a central zone extending radially outward from the
optical axis to a radial distance of 1.5 millimeters. A diffractive
profile is imposed on the optical surface, and includes a plurality
of echelettes disposed on the central zone. At least one of the
plurality of echelettes on the central zone has a profile in
r-squared space that is different than a profile in r-squared space
of any other echelette that is on the central zone. In one
embodiment, the central zone may extend to a radial distance of 2.5
millimeters. In one embodiment, the central zone may extend outward
from the optical axis to a radial distance of 0.5 millimeters from
the outer periphery of the optic.
[0020] Embodiments herein described include IOLs with a first
surface and a second surface disposed about an optical axis, and a
diffractive profile imposed on one of the first surface or the
second surface. The diffractive profile may include a central zone,
a peripheral zone, and an intermediate zone positioned between the
central zone and the peripheral zone. At least one of the three
zones may include a set of echelettes that is non-repeating.
[0021] Embodiments herein described include IOLs in which at least
one echelette is not repeated in an adjacent echelette, and the at
least one echelette is not part of a repeating set of at least two
echelettes.
[0022] Embodiments herein described include IOLs with an optical
surface disposed about an optical axis and a diffractive profile
imposed on the optical surface, and including a plurality of
echelettes. One of the plurality of echelettes is repeated on the
optical surface, does not form part of a set of adjacent echelettes
that repeats on the optical surface, and is not repeated in any
adjacent echelette.
[0023] Embodiments herein described include IOLs with an optical
surface disposed about an optical axis and a diffractive profile
imposed on the optical surface, and including a plurality of
echelettes. At least two adjacent echelettes of the plurality of
echelettes form a set of echelettes. The set does not form part of
a greater set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical
surface, is repeated on the optical surface to form one or more
multiples of the set on the optical surface, and is separated from
each of the one or more multiples of the set by at least one
echelette.
[0024] Embodiments herein described also include manufacturing
systems for making an ophthalmic lens. Such manufacturing system
can include an input that accepts an ophthalmic lens prescription
for a patient eye. A first module is configured to generate a
diffractive profile based on the ophthalmic lens prescription. The
diffractive profile includes a plurality of echelettes disposed on
an optical surface. At least one of the plurality of echelettes
does not repeat on the optical surface within an evaluation
aperture. The manufacturing system includes a manufacturing
assembly that fabricates the ophthalmic lens based on the
diffractive profile.
[0025] Manufacturing system embodiments may include an input that
accepts an ophthalmic lens prescription for a patient eye. A first
module is configured to generate a diffractive profile based on the
ophthalmic lens prescription. The diffractive profile includes a
plurality of echelettes disposed on an optical surface. One of the
plurality of echelettes is repeated on the optical surface, does
not form part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the
optical surface, and is not repeated in any adjacent echelette. The
manufacturing system includes a manufacturing assembly that
fabricates the ophthalmic lens based on the diffractive
profile.
[0026] Manufacturing system embodiments may include an input that
accepts an ophthalmic lens prescription for a patient eye. A first
module is configured to generate a diffractive profile based on the
ophthalmic lens prescription. The diffractive profile includes a
plurality of echelettes disposed on an optical surface. At least
two adjacent echelettes of the plurality of echelettes form a set
of echelettes. The set does not form part of a greater set of
adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface, is
repeated on the optical surface to form one or more multiples of
the set on the optical surface, and is separated from each of the
one or more multiples of the set by at least one echelette. The
manufacturing system includes a manufacturing assembly that
fabricates the ophthalmic lens based on the diffractive
profile.
[0027] Embodiments herein described also include methods of
designing an intraocular lens. Such methods can include defining an
evaluation aperture for an optic and a diffractive profile and
generating a diffractive lens surface based on the diffractive
profile. The diffractive profile may include a plurality of
echelettes disposed on an optical surface of the optic. At least
one of the plurality of echelettes does not repeat on the optical
surface within the evaluation aperture.
[0028] Embodiments herein described may also include methods of
designing an intraocular lens. Such methods can include defining a
diffractive profile and generating a diffractive lens surface based
on the diffractive profile. The diffractive profile may include a
plurality of echelettes disposed on an optical surface. One of the
plurality of echelettes is repeated on the optical surface, does
not form part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the
optical surface, and is not repeated in any adjacent echelette.
[0029] Embodiments herein described may also include methods of
designing an intraocular lens. Such methods can include defining a
diffractive profile and generating a diffractive lens surface based
on the diffractive profile. The diffractive profile may include a
plurality of echelettes disposed on an optical surface. At least
two adjacent echelettes of the plurality of echelettes form a set
of echelettes. The set does not form part of a greater set of
adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface, is
repeated on the optical surface to form one or more multiples of
the set on the optical surface, and is separated from each of the
one or more multiples of the set by at least one echelette.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1A illustrates a cross-sectional view of an eye with an
implanted multifocal refractive intraocular lens;
[0031] FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an eye having
an implanted multifocal diffractive intraocular lens;
[0032] FIG. 2A illustrates a front view of a diffractive multifocal
intraocular lens;
[0033] FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a diffractive
multifocal intraocular lens;
[0034] FIGS. 3A-3B are graphical representations of a portion of
the diffractive profile of a conventional diffractive multifocal
lens;
[0035] FIG. 4 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0036] FIG. 5 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0037] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0038] FIG. 7 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0039] FIG. 8 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0040] FIG. 9 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0041] FIG. 10 is a graphical representation illustrating a lens
profile for a diffractive lens according to certain embodiments of
this disclosure;
[0042] FIG. 11 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a system
for generating a diffractive lens surface, in accordance with
embodiments;
[0043] FIG. 12 illustrates an example process for generating a
diffractive lens surface; and
[0044] FIG. 13 illustrates an example computing environment for
facilitating the systems and processes of FIGS. 11 and 12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] Contemporary Lens Shapes and Diffractive Profiles
[0046] FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B illustrate multifocal IOL
lens geometries, aspects of which are described in U.S. Patent
Publication No. 2011-0149236 A1, which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0047] FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of an eye E fit with a
multifocal IOL 11. As shown, multifocal IOL 11 may, for example,
comprise a bifocal IOL. Multifocal IOL 11 receives light from at
least a portion of cornea 12 at the front of eye E and is generally
centered about the optical axis of eye E. For ease of reference and
clarity, FIGS. 1A and 1B do not disclose the refractive properties
of other parts of the eye, such as the corneal surfaces. Only the
refractive and/or diffractive properties of the multifocal IOL 11
are illustrated.
[0048] Each major face of lens 11, including the anterior (front)
surface and posterior (back) surface, generally has a refractive
profile, e.g. biconvex, plano-convex, plano-concave, meniscus, etc.
The two surfaces together, in relation to the properties of the
surrounding aqueous humor, cornea, and other optical components of
the overall optical system, define the effects of the lens 11 on
the imaging performance by eye E. Conventional, monofocal IOLs have
a refractive power based on the refractive index of the material
from which the lens is made, and also on the curvature or shape of
the front and rear surfaces or faces of the lens. One or more
support elements may be configured to secure the lens 11 to a
patient's eye.
[0049] Multifocal lenses may optionally also make special use of
the refractive properties of the lens. Such lenses generally
include different powers in different regions of the lens so as to
mitigate the effects of presbyopia. For example, as shown in FIG.
1A, a perimeter region of refractive multifocal lens 11 may have a
power which is suitable for viewing at far viewing distances. The
same refractive multifocal lens 11 may also include an inner region
having a higher surface curvature and a generally higher overall
power (sometimes referred to as a positive add power) suitable for
viewing at near distances.
[0050] Rather than relying entirely on the refractive properties of
the lens, multifocal diffractive IOLs or contact lenses can also
have a diffractive power, as illustrated by the IOL 18 shown in
FIG. 1B. The diffractive power can, for example, comprise positive
or negative power, and that diffractive power may be a significant
(or even the primary) contributor to the overall optical power of
the lens. The diffractive power is conferred by a plurality of
concentric diffractive zones which form a diffractive profile. The
diffractive profile may either be imposed on the anterior face or
posterior face or both.
[0051] The diffractive profile of a diffractive multifocal lens
directs incoming light into a number of diffraction orders. As
light 13 enters from the front of the eye, the multifocal lens 18
directs light 13 to form a far field focus 15a on retina 16 for
viewing distant objects and a near field focus 15b for viewing
objects close to the eye. Depending on the distance from the source
of light 13, the focus on retina 16 may be the near field focus 15b
instead. Typically, far field focus 15a is associated with 0.sup.th
diffractive order and near field focus 15b is associated with the
1.sup.st diffractive order, although other orders may be used as
well.
[0052] Bifocal ophthalmic lens 18 typically distributes the
majority of light energy into two viewing orders, often with the
goal of splitting imaging light energy about evenly (50%:50%), one
viewing order corresponding to far vision and one viewing order
corresponding to near vision, although typically, some fraction
goes to non-viewing orders.
[0053] Corrective optics may be provided by phakic IOLs, which can
be used to treat patients while leaving the natural lens in place.
Phakic IOLs may be angle supported, iris supported, or sulcus
supported. The phakic IOL can be placed over the natural
crystalline lens or piggy-backed over another IOL. It is also
envisioned that the present disclosure may be applied to inlays,
onlays, accommodating IOLs, pseudophakic IOLs, other forms of
intraocular implants, spectacles, and even laser vision
correction.
[0054] FIGS. 2A and 2B show aspects of a conventional diffractive
multifocal lens 20. Multifocal lens 20 may have certain optical
properties that are generally similar to those of multifocal IOLs
11, 18 described above. Multifocal lens 20 comprises an optic with
an anterior lens face 21 and a posterior lens face 22 disposed
about optical axis 24. The faces 21, 22, or optical surfaces,
extend radially outward from the optical axis 24 to an outer
periphery 27 of the optic. The faces 21, 22 of lens 20 face
opposite each other, and typically define a clear aperture 25. As
used herein, the term "clear aperture" means the opening of a lens
or optic that restricts the extent of a bundle of light rays from a
distant source that can be imaged or focused by the lens or optic.
The clear aperture is usually circular and is specified by its
diameter, and is sometimes equal to the full diameter of the
optic.
[0055] An evaluation aperture is defined as the aperture at which
the performance of the lens is of particular interest. An example
of such aperture is an aperture diameter of 3.0 mm. A 3.0 mm pupil
diameter is representative for a "medium size" pupil under normal
photopic light conditions (Watson A B, Yellott J I. A unified
formula for light-adapted pupil size. J Vis 2012; 12:12, 1-16). A
3.0 mm physical pupil is also a standard pupil size for evaluation
of IOLs in the ISO standard for IOLs (ISO 11979-2). Another
aperture size of special interest is 5.0 mm. A 5.0 mm aperture
represents a large pupil, e.g. representing the pupil size under
mesopic or scotopic light conditions. A 5.0 mm physical pupil is
also a standard pupil size for evaluation of IOLs in the ISO
standard for IOLs (ISO 11979-2). Alternatively, an evaluation
aperture may consist of an annulus having an inner radius and an
outer radius. In other embodiments, alternative sizes of evaluation
apertures may be utilized as desired. In one embodiment, the
evaluation aperture may extend radially outward from the optical
axis to 0.5 millimeters from the outer periphery of the optic.
[0056] When fitted onto the eye of a subject or patient, the
optical axis of lens 20 is generally aligned with the optical axis
of eye E. The curvature of lens 20 gives lens 20 an anterior
refractive profile and a posterior refractive profile. Although a
diffractive profile may also be imposed on either anterior face 21
and posterior face 22 or both, FIG. 2B shows posterior face 22 with
a diffractive profile. The diffractive profile is characterized by
a plurality of annular diffractive zones or echelettes 23 spaced
about optical axis 24. The diffractive profile extends on the
posterior optical surface between the optical axis 24 and the outer
periphery 27 of the optic. While analytical optics theory generally
assumes an infinite number of echelettes, a standard multifocal
diffractive IOL typically has at least 9 echelettes, and may have
over 30 echelettes. For the sake of clarity, FIG. 2B shows only 4
echelettes. Typically, an IOL is biconvex, or possibly
plano-convex, or convex-concave, although an IOL could be
plano-plano, or other refractive surface combinations.
[0057] FIGS. 3A and 3B are graphical representations of a portion
of a typical diffractive profile of a multifocal lens. While the
graph shows only 3 echelettes, typical diffractive lenses extend to
at least 9 echelettes to over 32 echelettes. In FIG. 3A, the height
of the surface relief profile (from a plane perpendicular to the
light rays) of each point on the echelette surface is plotted
against the square of the radial distance (r.sup.2 or .rho.) from
the optical axis of the lens (referred to as r-squared space). In
multifocal lenses, each echelette 23 may have a diameter or
distance from the optical axis which is often proportional to n, n
being the number of the echelette 23 as counted from optical axis
24. Each echelette has a characteristic optical zone 30 and
transition zone 31. Optical zone 30 typically has a shape or
downward slope that is parabolic as shown in FIG. 3B. The slope of
each echelette in r-squared space (shown in FIG. 3A), however, is
the same. As for the typical diffractive multifocal lens, as shown
here, all echelettes have the same surface area. The area of
echelettes 23 determines the diffractive power of lens 20, and, as
area and radii are correlated, the diffractive power is also
related to the radii of the echelletes. The physical offset of the
trailing edge of each echelette to the leading edge of the adjacent
echelette is the step height. An exemplary step height between
adjacent echelettes is marked as reference number 33 in FIG. 3A.
The step heights remain the same in r-squared space (FIG. 3A) and
in linear space (FIG. 3B). The step offset is the height offset of
the transition zone from the underlying base curve. An exemplary
step offset is marked as reference number 414 in FIG. 4.
[0058] FIG. 4 shows a graphical representation illustrating an
embodiment of a diffractive profile 400. The diffractive profile
400 may result in a lens having an extended range of vision or a
multifocal lens.
[0059] The diffractive profile 400, in the form of a sag profile,
is shown extending outward from an optical axis 402. The
diffractive zones, or echelettes, are shown extending radially
outward from the optical axis 402, and would be arranged around the
optical axis 402 (the other half of the diffractive profile 400 is
not shown). The diffractive profile 400 is shown relative to the Y
axis 404, which represents the height or phase shift of the
diffractive profile 400. The height is shown in units of
micrometers (each hash mark corresponding to one micrometer), and
may represent the distance from the base curve of the lens. In
other embodiments, other units or scalings may be utilized.
[0060] The height or phase shift of the diffractive profile 400 is
shown in relation to the radius on the X axis 406 from the optical
axis 402. The radius is shown in units of millimeters, although in
other embodiments, other units or scalings may be utilized. The
diffractive profile 400 may extend outward from the optical axis
402 for an evaluation radius of 1.5 millimeters (corresponding to
an evaluation aperture of 3.0 millimeters), although in other
embodiments the diffractive profile 400 may extend for a lesser or
greater radius. The evaluation aperture may be considered to be a
central zone of the optic, extending radially outward from the
optical axis 402 to a distance (e.g., 1.5 millimeters). Each of the
echelettes 408a-h shown in FIG. 4 do not repeat over the entire
evaluation radius (and accordingly do not repeat over the entire
evaluation aperture). Within the scope of this disclosure, at least
one of the echelettes 408a-h may not repeat over the evaluation
aperture, or at least two or at least three of the echelettes
408a-h may not repeat over the evaluation aperture, or any number
of echelettes may not repeat over the evaluation aperture, up to
the total number of echelettes 408a-h within the evaluation
aperture. In one embodiment, the configuration of one or more
non-repeating echelettes may extend to the entire surface of the
optic upon which the diffractive profile 400 is disposed, which may
be a greater distance then the evaluation aperture. In one
embodiment, the configuration of one or more non-repeating
echelettes may extend to the entire optical zone of the lens upon
which the diffractive profile 400 is disposed.
[0061] In addition, the echelettes may be considered to form sets
of echelettes, such as the set 410 shown in FIG. 4 corresponding to
echelettes 408a-c. The set 410 is non-repeating over the evaluation
radius (and accordingly non-repeating over the evaluation
aperture). Within the scope of this disclosure, at least one of the
sets of echelettes may not repeat over the evaluation aperture, or
at least two or at least three of the sets of echelettes may not
repeat over the evaluation aperture, or any number of sets of
echelettes may not repeat over the evaluation aperture, up to the
total number of sets of echelettes within the evaluation aperture.
In one embodiment, this configuration of one or more non-repeating
sets of echelettes may extend to the entire surface of the optic
upon which the diffractive profile is disposed. In one embodiment,
the configuration of one or more non-repeating sets of echelettes
may extend to the entire optical zone of the lens upon which the
diffractive profile 400 is disposed. The set 410 as shown in FIG. 4
includes three echelettes, although in other embodiments the
non-repeating sets may include lesser or greater numbers of
echelettes (e.g., at least two echelettes). At least one zone
(e.g., a central zone, intermediate zone, peripheral zone) of the
optical surface of the optic may include a set of echelettes that
is non-repeating.
[0062] The echelettes 408a-h are each separated from an adjacent
echellete by a respective transition zone 412a-g. Each echelette
408a-h has a profile defined by the shape or slope of the
respective echelettes and the step height and step offsets (as
discussed previously) at the respective adjacent transition zones
(at the leading and trailing edge of each echelette). Each of the
echelettes 408a-h shown in FIG. 4 has a different profile than the
other echelettes on the evaluation aperture both in linear space
and in r-squared space (discussed previously). Notably, transition
zone 412b has a zero step height, which may serve to reduce stray
light or halos that may otherwise be produced by a non-zero step
height at a transition zone. One or more of the transition zones of
a diffractive profile discussed herein may comprise a zero step
height transition zone.
[0063] The size and shape of the evaluation aperture may be varied
as desired. For instance, FIG. 5 illustrates a larger evaluation
radius of 2.5 millimeters (corresponding to an evaluation aperture
of 5.0 millimeters). The evaluation aperture may be considered to
be a central zone of the optic, extending radially outward from the
optical axis 502 to a distance (e.g., 2.5 millimeters). The
diffractive profile 500 is shown relative to the Y axis 504, which
represents the height or phase shift of the diffractive profile
500. The height is shown in units of micrometers (each hash mark
corresponding to one micrometer), and may represent the distance
from the base curve of the lens.
[0064] In other embodiments, other units or scalings may be
utilized. The height or phase shift of the diffractive profile 500
is shown in relation to the radius on the X axis 506 from the
optical axis 502.
[0065] Each of the echelettes 508a-k shown in FIG. 5 do not repeat
over the entire evaluation radius (and accordingly do not repeat
over the entire evaluation aperture). Similar to the embodiment
discussed in regard to FIG. 4, within the scope of this disclosure,
at least one or more of the echelettes may not repeat over the
evaluation aperture.
[0066] In addition, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the
echelettes may be considered to form sets of echlettes, such as the
set 510 shown in FIG. 5 corresponding to echelettes 508a-c. The set
510 is non-repeating over the evaluation radius (and accordingly
the evaluation aperture). Similar to the embodiment discussed in
regard to FIG. 4, within the scope of this disclosure, at least one
or more of the sets of echelettes may not repeat over the
evaluation aperture.
[0067] The echelettes 508a-k are each separated from an adjacent
echellete by a respective transition zone 512a j. Each of the
echelettes 508a-k shown in FIG. 5 has a different profile than the
other echelettes on the evaluation aperture both in linear space
and in r-squared space (discussed previously).
[0068] In both embodiments of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the optic, the
clear optic, and the optical design, and the diffractive profile
may extend outside of the evaluation aperture shown in the
respective figures.
[0069] Within the scope of this disclosure, in embodiments, at
least one echelette may repeat within the evaluation radius (and
accordingly within the evaluation aperture). In addition, in
embodiments, at least one echelette may repeat outside of the
evaluation radius (and accordingly outside of the evaluation
aperture).
[0070] FIG. 6 illustrates a diffractive profile 600 in which
echelettes are repeating outside of the evaluation aperture. FIG. 6
illustrates an evaluation radius of 1.6 millimeters (corresponding
to an evaluation aperture of 3.2 millimeters). The evaluation
aperture extends radially outward from the optical axis 602 to a
distance. The evaluation aperture may be considered to be a central
zone of the optic. The diffractive profile 600 is shown relative to
the Y axis 604, which represents the height or phase shift of the
diffractive profile 600. The height is shown in units of
micrometers (each hash mark corresponding to one micrometer), and
may represent the distance from the base curve of the lens. In
other embodiments, other units or scalings may be utilized. The
height or phase shift of the diffractive profile 600 is shown in
relation to the radius on the X axis 606 from the optical axis
602.
[0071] In this embodiment, each of the echelettes 608a-f within the
evaluation radius do not repeat over the evaluation radius (and
accordingly do not repeat over the entire evaluation aperture).
Similar to the embodiments discussed in regard to FIGS. 4 and 5,
within the scope of this disclosure, at least one or more of the
echelettes 608a-f may not repeat over the evaluation aperture.
However, the echelettes 610a-c outside the evaluation radius do
repeat. The echelettes 610a-c repeat outward to a radial distance
of about 3 millimeters (three echelettes 610a-c are marked in FIG.
6, however, fifteen total repeating echelettes 610a-c are shown in
FIG. 6). The echlettes repeat on a zone 612 that is radially
outward of the central zone 614. The zone 612 may be considered a
peripheral zone, and the echelettes 610a-c may repeat entirely
across the peripheral zone. In other embodiments, a lesser or
greater number of repeating echelettes 610a-c may be provided. In
one embodiment, at least one repeating echelette may be provided
within the evaluation aperture. In one embodiment, at least one
non-repeating echelette may be provided outside the evaluation
aperture.
[0072] In addition, similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and
5, the echelettes 608a-f may be considered to form sets of
echlettes, such as the set 616 shown in FIG. 6 corresponding to
echelettes 608a-c. The set 610 is non-repeating over the evaluation
radius (and accordingly over the evaluation aperture). Similar to
the embodiment discussed in regard to FIGS. 4 and 5, within the
scope of this disclosure, at least one or more sets of echelettes
may not repeat over the evaluation aperture.
[0073] The echelettes 608a-f are each separated from an adjacent
echellete by a respective transition zone 618a-f. Each of the
echelettes 608a-f has a different profile than the other echelettes
608a-f on the evaluation aperture both in linear space and in
r-squared space (discussed previously). The echelettes 610a-c are
also each separated from an adjacent echellete by a respective
transition zone 620a-c and 618f. Each of the echelettes 610a-c
shown in FIG. 6 has a same profile as the other echelettes on the
zone 612 in r-squared space (discussed previously).
[0074] FIG. 7 illustrates a diffractive profile 700 in which sets
of echelettes are repeating outside of the evaluation aperture.
FIG. 7 illustrates an evaluation radius of 1.6 millimeters
(corresponding to an evaluation aperture of 3.2 millimeters). The
evaluation aperture extends radially outward from the optical axis
702 to a distance. The evaluation aperture may be considered to be
a central zone of the optic. The diffractive profile 700 is shown
relative to the Y axis 704, which represents the height or phase
shift of the diffractive profile 700. The height is shown in units
of micrometers (each hash mark corresponding to one micrometer),
and may represent the distance from the base curve of the lens. In
other embodiments, other units or scalings may be utilized. The
height or phase shift of the diffractive profile 700 is shown in
relation to the radius on the X axis 706 from the optical axis
702.
[0075] FIG. 7 illustrates a variation on the diffractive profile
shown in FIG. 6, in which the echelettes within the central zone
714 have the same profile as shown within the central zone 614 of
FIG. 6. The echelettes 710a-c outside of the evaluation aperture
(or central zone 714), however, form a set 718a of echelettes
710a-c that repeats on the entirety of the peripheral zone 712
outside of the evaluation aperture. The set 718a may repeat as sets
718b-e on the peripheral zone 712. The set 718a accordingly is
repeated on the optical surface to form four multiples 718b-e of
the set 718a on the optical surface. The sets 718a-e accordingly
comprise a repeated set. The sets 718a-e are adjacent to each
other. The sets 718a and 718b are not separated from each other by
at least one echelette. In other embodiments, the set 718a may be
repeated in a number of multiples that covers a lesser or greater
portion of the peripheral zone 712. The set 718a shown in FIG. 7
includes three echelettes, although in other embodiments a greater
or lesser number of echelettes may be utilized in the set (e.g., at
least two echelettes in a set).
[0076] In one embodiment, a repeating set may be provided on the
central zone 714.
[0077] The echelettes 710a-c are also each separated from an
adjacent echellete by a respective transition zone 720a-c and 618f
Each of the sets 718a-e shown in FIG. 7 has a same profile as the
other sets 718a-e on the zone 712 in r-squared space (discussed
previously).
[0078] Alternatively, FIG. 7 may include an evaluation radius of
1.9 millimeters (marked with reference number 722), within which
echelettes are non-repeating. However, the last three echelettes
within the evaluation radius of 1.9 mm are repeated outside of the
evaluation aperture.
[0079] FIG. 8 illustrates a diffractive profile 800 in which at
least one of the echelettes 802b is repeated on the surface of the
optic upon which it is disposed. The echelette 802b is repeated as
echelette 802e. However, the echelette 802b is not adjacent the
echelette 802e. Rather the echelette 802b is adjacent echelettes
802a and 802c, neither of which comprises a repetition of echelette
802b.
[0080] The diffractive profile 800 is shown relative to the Y axis
804, which represents the height or phase shift of the diffractive
profile 800. The height is shown as a relative scaling of the
heights of the echelettes 802a-e, and may represent the relative
distance from the base curve of the lens. In other embodiments,
other units or scalings may be utilized. The height or phase shift
of the diffractive profile 800 is shown in relation to the square
of the radial distance (r.sup.2 or .rho.), on the X axis 806, from
the optical axis 808 (r-squared space).
[0081] The echelette 802b is not repeated in adjacent echelettes
802a, 802c. Echelette 802e is also not repeated in any adjacent
echelette 802d. Echelette 802b and its repeated, or multiple,
echelette 802e are separated by two echelettes 802c, 802d.
[0082] The echelette 802b does not form part of a set of adjacent
echelettes that repeats on the optical surface upon which it is
disposed. A set of adjacent echlettes would include two or more
adjacent echelettes. For example, echelette 802b in combination
with adjacent echelette 802a does not form a set of echelettes that
repeats on the optical surface. Echelette 802b in combination with
adjacent echelette 802c does not form a set of echelettes that
repeats on the optical surface. A combination of echelette 802b
with both echelettes 802a and 802c, or also with echelettes 802d
and 802e, also do not form a set of echelettes that repeats on the
optical surface. Accordingly, repeated echelette 802b does not form
part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical
surface upon which it is disposed. In contrast, echelette 710c
shown in FIG. 7 repeats on the optical surface upon which it is
disposed, and it forms part of a set 718a of adjacent echelettes
that repeats on the optical surface (as sets 718b, 718c, 718d,
718e).
[0083] The echelettes 802a-e are each separated from an adjacent
echellete by a respective transition zone 810a-d. Each of the
echelettes 802a-d has a different profile than each of the other
echelettes 802a-d both in linear space and in r-squared space
(discussed previously). The echelettes 802b and 802e, however, have
a same profile in r-squared space, as is visible in FIG. 8.
[0084] The echelette 802b may be repeated once on the optical
surface upon which it is disposed, as shown in FIG. 8, to form the
multiple echelette 802e. In other embodiments, the echelette 802b
may be repeated on the optical surface at least twice. In one
embodiment, one or more echeletes may repeat on the optical
surface, without being repeated in any adjacent echelette, and not
forming part of a set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the
optical surface.
[0085] The diffractive profile 800 includes three echelettes 802a,
802c, 802d, that do not repeat on the optical surface. In other
embodiments, a greater or lesser number of echelettes that do not
repeat on the optical surface may be provided (at least one
non-repeating echelette). In one embodiment, echelettes that do
repeat on the optical surface adjacent to each other may be
provided. In one embodiment, one or more repeating sets of at least
two echelettes may be provided, and the sets may be adjacent to
each other.
[0086] In certain embodiments, the diffractive profile 800, or the
configuration of echelettes discussed in regard to FIG. 8, may only
extend over an evaluation radius (and accordingly an evaluation
aperture). The evaluation radius may be sized and shaped as
desired, and may have a size corresponding to a radius that is
disclosed or discussed herein. In other embodiments, the
diffractive profile 800, or the configuration of echelettes
discussed in regard to FIG. 8, may extend to the entire surface of
the optic upon which the diffractive profile is disposed, which may
be a greater distance then the evaluation aperture. In one
embodiment, the diffractive profile 800, or the configuration of
echelettes discussed in regard to FIG. 8, may extend to the entire
optical zone of the lens upon which the corresponding diffractive
profile is disposed.
[0087] FIG. 9 illustrates a diffractive profile 900 in which at
least one of the echelettes 902a is repeated on the surface of the
optic upon which it is disposed. The echelette 902a is repeated as
echelette 902e (as indicated by the double arrow line pointing to
the echelettes 902a, 902e). However, the echelette 902a is not
adjacent the echelette 902e. Rather the echelette 902a is adjacent
echelette 902b, which does not comprise a repetition of echelette
902a.
[0088] The diffractive profile 900 is shown relative to the Y axis
904, which represents the height or phase shift of the diffractive
profile 900. The height is shown as a relative scaling of the
heights of the echelettes 902a-f, and may represent the relative
distance from the base curve of the lens.
[0089] In other embodiments, other units or scalings may be
utilized. The height or phase shift of the diffractive profile 900
is shown in relation to the square of the radial distance (r.sup.2
or .rho.), on the X axis 906, from the optical axis 908 (r-squared
space).
[0090] The echelette 902a is not repeated in adjacent echelette
902b. Echelette 902e is also not repeated in any adjacent echelette
902d, 902f. Echelette 902a and its repeated, or multiple, echelette
902e are separated by three echelettes 902b-d.
[0091] As discussed in regard to the embodiment of FIG. 8, the
echelette 902a does not form part of a set of adjacent echelettes
that repeats on the optical surface upon which it is disposed.
Similarly, the echelette 902e does not form part of a set of
adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface upon which
it is disposed.
[0092] The echelettes 902a-f are each separated from an adjacent
echellete by a respective transition zone 910a-e. Each of the
echelettes 902b-d and 902f, has a different profile than each of
the other echelettes 902a-f both in linear space and in r-squared
space (discussed previously). The echelettes 902a and 902e,
however, have a same profile in r-squared space, as is visible in
FIG. 9.
[0093] The configuration of echelettes shown in FIG. 9 may be
modified in any manner discussed in regard to the embodiment of
FIG. 8.
[0094] FIG. 10 illustrates a diffractive profile 1000 in which at
least one set 1002a of echelettes 1004b, 1004c is repeated on the
surface of the optic upon which it is disposed. The set 1002a is
repeated as the multiple set 1002b of echelettes 1004e, 1004f.
However, the set 1002a is not adjacent the set 1002b. Rather the
set 1002a is separated from the multiple set 1002b by at least one
echelette 1004d. Echelette 1004d does not form part of either set
1002a or set 1002b.
[0095] The diffractive profile 1000 is shown relative to the Y axis
1006, which represents the height or phase shift of the diffractive
profile 1000. The height is shown as a relative scaling of the
heights of the echelettes 1004a-f, and may represent the relative
distance from the base curve of the lens. In other embodiments,
other units or scalings may be utilized. The height or phase shift
of the diffractive profile 1000 is shown in relation to the square
of the radial distance (r.sup.2 or .rho.), on the X axis 1008, from
the optical axis 1010 (r-squared space).
[0096] The set 1002a is not repeated in adjacent echelettes 1004a,
1004d, or in any adjacent set of echelettes. The set 1002b is not
repeated in adjacent echelette 1004d, and is also not repeated in
any adjacent set of echelettes.
[0097] The set 1002a of echelettes 1004b, 1004c does not form part
of greater set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical
surface. A greater set of adjacent echelettes would comprise a set
of adjacent echelettes with a greater number of echelettes than set
1002a, and that also includes set 1002a. For example, set 1002a
includes two adjacent echelettes 1004b and 1004c, and a greater set
of adjacent echelettes would then include one or more additional
adjacent echelettes (totaling a set with three or more adjacent
echelettes). Notably, set 1002a is adjacent echelette 1004a. Set
1002a in combination with adjacent echelette 1004a does not form a
greater set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical
surface. Set 1002a is adjacent echelette 1004d. Set 1002a in
combination with adjacent echelette 1004d does not form a greater
set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface. A
combination of set 1002a with both echelettes 1004a and 1004d, or
also with echelettes 1004e and 1004f, also do not form a greater
set of adjacent echelettes that repeats on the optical surface. In
contrast, the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 displays a set of
echelettes (710a and 710b) that forms part of a greater set 718a of
adjacent echelettes (710a, 710b, and 710c) that repeats on the
optical surface as multiple sets 718b, 718c, 718d and 718e.
[0098] The set 1002a shown in FIG. 10 includes two echelettes. In
other embodiments, a set having properties discussed in regard to
set 1002a may include two or more, or at least two, adjacent
echelettes.
[0099] The set 1002a shown in FIG. 10 is repeated on the optical
surface once to form a multiple set 1002b on the optical surface.
In other embodiments, a set having properties discussed in regard
to set 1002a may be repeated on the optical surface to form one or
more multiples of the set, or at least one multiple of the set. The
set may be separated from each of the one or more multiples of the
set by at least one echelette, such that the set is not adjacent
any of the multiples of the set.
[0100] The set 1002a shown in FIG. 10 is separated from the
multiple set 1002b by one echelette 1004d. In other embodiments, a
set having properties discussed in regard to set 1002a may be
separated from each of the one or more multiples of the set by one
or more, or at least one echelette.
[0101] The echelettes 1004a-f are each separated from an adjacent
echellete by a respective transition zone 1012a-e. Each of the
echelettes 1004a, 1004d, 1004f has a different profile than each of
the other echelettes 1004a-f both in linear space and in r-squared
space (discussed previously). The echelettes 1004b and 1004e have
the same profile in r-squared space, as is visible in FIG. 10. The
echelettes 1004c and 1004f have the same profile in r-squared
space, as is visible in FIG. 10. The sets 1002a and 1002b of
echlettes have the same profile in r-squared space, as is visible
in FIG. 10.
[0102] In one embodiment, one or more sets of at least two adjacent
echelettes may repeat on the optical surface to form one or more
multiples of the respective set on the optical surface, each
without forming part of a greater set of adjacent echelettes that
repeats on the optical surface, and each being separated from each
of the one or more multiples of the respective set by at least one
echelette.
[0103] The diffractive profile 1000 includes two echelettes 1004a,
1004d, that do not repeat on the optical surface. In other
embodiments, a greater or lesser number of echelettes that do not
repeat on the optical surface may be provided (at least one
non-repeating echelette). In one embodiment, echelettes that do
repeat on the optical surface adjacent to each other may be
provided. In one embodiment, one or more repeating sets of at least
two echelettes may be provided, and the sets may be adjacent to
each other.
[0104] In certain embodiments, the diffractive profile 1000, or the
configuration of echelettes discussed in regard to FIG. 10, may
only extend over an evaluation radius (and accordingly an
evaluation aperture). The evaluation radius may be sized and shaped
as desired, and may have a size corresponding to a radius that is
disclosed herein. In other embodiments, the diffractive profile
1000, or the configuration of echelettes discussed in regard to
FIG. 10, may extend to the entire surface of the optic upon which
the diffractive profile is disposed, which may be a greater
distance then the evaluation aperture. In one embodiment, the
diffractive profile 1000, or the configuration of echelettes
discussed in regard to FIG. 10, may extend to the entire optical
zone of the lens upon which the corresponding diffractive profile
is disposed.
[0105] Referring now to the embodiments disclosed in this
application (and not solely to the embodiments of FIG. 10), the
diffractive powers of the lens may vary, depending on the desired
performance of the design. Diffractive powers up to 2.75-4.5D are
intended for a design that provides adequate visual performance
over the entire range of vision from far to intermediate distances
and near. Lower diffractive powers may be beneficial if the desired
performance is to emphasize good far and intermediate vision, while
vision at near distances may be slightly reduced. Such lens design
may have diffractive powers up to about 1.5-2.75D.
[0106] The diffractive profiles disclosed herein may result in a
diffractive profile producing an extended range of vision for the
patient.
[0107] In one embodiment, a diffractive profile may be positioned
on a surface of a lens that is opposite an aspheric surface. The
aspheric surface on the opposite side of the lens may be designed
to reduce corneal spherical aberration of the patient.
[0108] In one embodiment, one or both surface may be aspherical, or
include a refractive surface designed to extend the depth of focus,
or create multifocality.
[0109] In one embodiment, a refractive zone on one or both
surfaces, that may the same size or different in size as one of the
diffractive zones. The refractive zone includes a refractive
surface designed to extend the depth of focus, or create
multifocality.
[0110] Any of the embodiments of lens profiles discussed herein may
be apodized to produce a desired result. The apodization may result
in the step heights and step offsets of the echelettes and the sets
being varied according to the apodization. The apodized echelettes
and the sets however, are still considered to be repeating over the
optic of the lens.
[0111] The size and shape of the evaluation aperture may be varied
as desired. In one embodiment, the evaluation aperture may extend
to the entire optical zone of the lens. In one embodiment, the
evaluation aperture may comprise an annulus disposed about the
optical axis.
[0112] Systems and Methods for determining lens shape:
[0113] FIG. 11 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a system
1100 for generating an ophthalmic lens based on a user input. The
system 1100 may be used to generate any embodiment of lens
disclosed or discussed in this application.
[0114] The system 1100 includes a user input module 1102 configured
to receive user input defining aspects of the user and of a lens.
The user input may also comprise a size and shape of a desired
evaluation aperture. Aspects of a lens may include a diffractive
lens prescription, which may comprise a multifocal lens
prescription, anatomical dimensions like a pupil size performance,
and lens dimensions, among other attributes. A lens prescription
can include, for example, a preferred optical power or optical
power profile for correcting far vision and an optical power or
optical power profile for near vision. In some cases, a lens
prescription can further include an optical power or optical power
profile for correcting intermediate vision at two, or in some cases
more than two intermediate foci, which may fall between the optical
powers or ranges of optical powers described above. A pupil size
performance can include a pupil radius of a patient and the visual
field to be optimized. These parameters can also be related to
patient's life style or profession, so that the design incorporates
patient's visual needs as a function of the pupil size. Lens
dimensions can include a preferred radius of the total lens, and
may further include preferred thickness, or a preferred curvature
of one or the other of the anterior surface and posterior surface
of the lens.
[0115] A diffractive surface modeling module 1104 can receive
information about the desired lens from the user input module 1102,
and can determine aspects of a multizonal lens. For example, the
modeling module 1104 can determine the shape of one or more
echelettes of the diffractive profile of a diffractive multifocal
lens, including the positioning, width, step height, and curvature
needed to fulfill the multifocal prescription for each subset of
the echelettes, as well as the positioning of each subset of
echelettes. The multizonal diffractive surface modeling module 1104
can further determine the shapes of transition steps between
echelettes. For example, transition steps may be smoothed or
rounded to help mitigate optical aberrations caused by light
passing through an abrupt transition. Such transition zone
smoothing, which may be referred to as a low scatter profile, can
provide for reductions in dysphotopsia by reducing the errant
concentration of incident light behind the lens by the transition
zones. By way of further example, echelette ordering, echelette
offsets, and echelette boundaries may be adjusted to adjust the
step heights between some adjacent echelettes.
[0116] The diffractive surface modeling module 1104 can be
configured to generate performance criteria 1112, e.g. via modeling
optical properties in a virtual environment. Performance criteria
can include the match of the optical power profile of the
multizonal lens with the desired optical power profile based on the
extended range of vision prescription. The performance criteria can
also include the severity of diffractive aberrations caused by lens
surface. In some cases, the diffractive surface modeling module
1104 can provide a lens surface to a lens fabrication module for
facilitating the production of a physical lens, which can be tested
via a lens testing module 1110 for empirically determining the
performance criteria 1112, so as to identify optical aberrations
and imperfections not readily discerned via virtual modeling, and
to permit iteration.
[0117] A refractive surface modeling module 1106 can receive
information from the user input 1102 and diffractive surface
modeling modules 1104 in order to determine refractive aspects of
the lens. For example, provided with an extended range of vision
prescription and a set of add powers that can be generated by a
diffractive profile, the refractive surface modeling module 1106
can provide a refractive geometry configured to provide a base
power which, when combined with the diffractive surface, meets the
requirements of the multifocal lens prescription. The refractive
surface modeling module 1106 can also generate performance criteria
1112, and can contribute to providing a lens surface to a lens
fabrication module 1108 for facilitating the production of the
physical lens.
[0118] FIG. 12 is an example process 1200 for generating a
diffractive lens surface, in accordance with embodiments. The
process 1200 may be implemented in conjunction with, for example,
the system 1100 shown in FIG. 11. In one embodiment, a process may
be utilized to generate any diffractive lens surface disclosed or
discussed in this application. Some or all of the process 1200 (or
any other processes described herein, or variations, and/or
combinations thereof) may be performed under the control of one or
more computer systems configured with executable instructions and
may be implemented as code (e.g., executable instructions, one or
more computer programs, or one or more applications) executing
collectively on one or more processors, by hardware or combinations
thereof. The code may be stored on a computer-readable storage
medium, for example, in the form of a computer program comprising a
plurality of instructions executable by one or more processors. The
computer-readable storage medium may be non-transitory.
[0119] The process 1200 includes receiving an input indicative of a
diffractive lens prescription (act 1202). The input can include,
e.g., a desired optical power profile for correcting impaired
distance vision, a desired optical power profile for correcting
impaired intermediate distance vision, a desired optical power
profile for accommodating near vision, and any suitable combination
of the above. The process 1200 may also include defining an
evaluation aperture for an optic (act 1204). Based on a desired
optical power profile and the size and shape of the evaluation
aperture. The generated diffractive profile may include a plurality
of echelettes disposed on an optical surface of the optic (act
1206). At least one of the plurality of echelettes may not repeat
on the optical surface within the evaluation aperture (act
1208).
[0120] The diffractive lens profile of the multizonal diffractive
lens surface may be used in combination with a known refractive
base power. To that end, a refractive lens surface may be generated
having a base power that, in combination with the diffractive lens
surface, meets the diffractive lens prescription (act 1210). A
total lens surface can be generated based on both the refractive
lens surface and the diffractive lens surface (act 1212). The
refractive lens surface can include a refractive lens curvature on
the anterior surface of the lens, the posterior surface of the
lens, or both. Instructions can be generated to fabricate an
intraocular lens based on the generated total lens surface (act
1214).
[0121] Computational Methods:
[0122] FIG. 13 is a simplified block diagram of an exemplary
computing environment 1300 that may be used by systems for
generating the continuous progressive lens surfaces of the present
disclosure. Computer system 1322 typically includes at least one
processor 1352 which may communicate with a number of peripheral
devices via a bus subsystem 1354. These peripheral devices may
include a storage subsystem 1356 comprising a memory subsystem 1358
and a file storage subsystem 1360, user interface input devices
1362, user interface output devices 1364, and a network interface
subsystem 1366. Network interface subsystem 1366 provides an
interface to outside networks 1368 and/or other devices, such as
the lens fabrication module 1108 or lens testing module 1110 of
FIG. 11.
[0123] User interface input devices 1362 may include a keyboard,
pointing devices such as a mouse, trackball, touch pad, or graphics
tablet, a scanner, foot pedals, a joystick, a touchscreen
incorporated into the display, audio input devices such as voice
recognition systems, microphones, and other types of input devices.
User input devices 1362 will often be used to download a computer
executable code from a tangible storage media embodying any of the
methods of the present disclosure. In general, use of the term
"input device" is intended to include a variety of conventional and
proprietary devices and ways to input information into computer
system 1322.
[0124] User interface output devices 1364 may include a display
subsystem, a printer, a fax machine, or non-visual displays such as
audio output devices. The display subsystem may be a cathode ray
tube (CRT), a flat-panel device such as a liquid crystal display
(LCD), a projection device, or the like. The display subsystem may
also provide a non-visual display such as via audio output devices.
In general, use of the term "output device" is intended to include
a variety of conventional and proprietary devices and ways to
output information from computer system 1322 to a user.
[0125] Storage subsystem 1356 can store the basic programming and
data constructs that provide the functionality of the various
embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, a database and
modules implementing the functionality of the methods of the
present disclosure, as described herein, may be stored in storage
subsystem 1356. These software modules are generally executed by
processor 1352. In a distributed environment, the software modules
may be stored on a plurality of computer systems and executed by
processors of the plurality of computer systems. Storage subsystem
1356 typically comprises memory subsystem 1358 and file storage
subsystem 1360. Memory subsystem 1358 typically includes a number
of memories including a main random access memory (RAM) 1370 for
storage of instructions and data during program execution.
[0126] Various computational methods discussed above, e.g. with
respect to generating a multizonal lens surface, may be performed
in conjunction with or using a computer or other processor having
hardware, software, and/or firmware. The various method steps may
be performed by modules, and the modules may comprise any of a wide
variety of digital and/or analog data processing hardware and/or
software arranged to perform the method steps described herein. The
modules optionally comprising data processing hardware adapted to
perform one or more of these steps by having appropriate machine
programming code associated therewith, the modules for two or more
steps (or portions of two or more steps) being integrated into a
single processor board or separated into different processor boards
in any of a wide variety of integrated and/or distributed
processing architectures. These methods and systems will often
employ a tangible media embodying machine-readable code with
instructions for performing the method steps described above.
Suitable tangible media may comprise a memory (including a volatile
memory and/or a non-volatile memory), a storage media (such as a
magnetic recording on a floppy disk, a hard disk, a tape, or the
like; on an optical memory such as a CD, a CD-R/W, a CD-ROM, a DVD,
or the like; or any other digital or analog storage media), or the
like.
* * * * *