Abstract

A blister package for a contact lens is provided. A deformable slider supporting a lens is movable via pull-tab or hinge to lift the contact lens out of a lens well. The deformable slider can include a hinge connected to a flexible peel-away top of the blister package or connected to a pull tab that can be pulled to pull taut the deformable slider. A blister package is also provided that includes a hinged shell having a lateral opening opposite the hinge, and a deformable slider that is folded over onto itself and seals both a top chamber and a bottom chamber. By pulling a tongue of the deformable slider, which extends from the lateral opening, the deformable slider can be removed from the closed shell and the closed shell can be opened enabling access to the contact lens.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
• B65D 81/22 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient in moist conditions or immersed in liquids
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• B65D 83/00 - Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
• B65D 51/28 - Closures not otherwise provided for combined with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials

Abstract

Contact lens dispensers are provided including a pens dispenser having an interior and a dispensing end. A delivery screw is provided in the interior of the tubular housing. The delivery screw has a thread pitch and a plurality of contact lenses, one contact lens per pitch. Upon actuation of an actuator, each contact lens moves along the thread by a distance of one pitch and a single contact lens is dispensed from the dispensing end of the tubular housing. A case and disposable foil contact lens cartridge are also provided as a re a case and disposable contact lens foil spool, wherein actuation of push-buttons dispense contact lenses ready for immediate application onto an eye.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61L 12/08 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• A45C 11/04 - Spectacle casesPince-nez cases
• A61F 9/00 - Methods or devices for treatment of the eyesDevices for putting in contact-lensesDevices to correct squintingApparatus to guide the blindProtective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
• B65B 25/00 - Packaging other articles presenting special problems
• B65D 25/38 - Devices for discharging contents
• B65D 25/52 - Devices for discharging successive articles or portions of contents
• B65D 83/00 - Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
• B65D 83/04 - Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for dispensing annular, disc-shaped, spherical or like small articles, e.g. tablets or pills
• C11D 3/00 - Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group
• G02C 13/00 - AssemblingRepairingCleaning
• B65D 25/00 - Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers

Abstract

A blister package for a contact lens is provided that can be stacked with other blister packages of the same design. One example of the blister package has a body that includes a dome and a handle. A seal is attached to the top surface of the body and has a seal dome that seals a volume between the outer sidewall of the body dome and the inner sidewall of the seal dome. The handle has a through-hole and the through-hole that accommodates the outer sidewall of the seal dome. Another blister package provided has a handle and a bowl and the handle has a through- hole that accommodates the bowl outer surface. Stacks of blister packages are also provided as is secondary packaging for packaging stacks of tessellating blister packages.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• B65D 21/02 - Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together

Abstract

A blister package for a contact lens is provided. The blister package includes a body defining a handle and a well, a flexible top contacting the body and closing the well, and a lens cradle that includes a lens support bowl. The lens cradle is attached to the inner surface of the flexible top. By peeling away the flexible top, the lens cradle is lifted away from the bottom surface of the well and the lens is raised out of the well, cradled by the lens support bowl, and presented for easy fingertip manipulation by a user.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups

Abstract

A blister package for a contact lens is provided that includes a body and a seal, one or both of which is made up of a double layer foil component. The double layer foil component can be a seal component made of a sheet of material folded upon itself and defining a seal, a flap, and a fold. The seal and the flap intersect at the fold and the flap can be pulled away from the seal to form a pull tab useful to peel back the seal and open the bowl. The body can also, or instead, be made of a double layer foil component that forms at least the bowl such that the bottom of the bowl is double- walled. The double-walled bowl exhibits improved strength and can be provided with strengthening features such as ribs, ridges, channels, or grooves.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• B65D 6/10 - Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal, plastics, wood or substitutes therefor with walls comprising multiple panels in spaced face-to-face relationship, e.g. double walls

Abstract

A blister package for a contact lens is provided and has a body and a seal. The body includes a handle and a deformable bowl. The seal seals the deformable bowl at a bowl top opening. The handle includes a lateral portion and an end portion. The end portion curves downwardly to a distal end that terminates at a plane. The bowl is recessed from a top surface of the body and the outer bottom surface of the bowl is arranged substantially on the same plane as the distal end of the handle. The design provides leverage in holding the blister package while a user deforms and inverts the bowl into a dome, presenting a contact lens on top of the dome in position for direct transfer to a person's finger or for application directly on an eye without the need for any finger contact.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• B65D 83/00 - Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents

Abstract

A flexible optical element adopting liquid crystals (LCs) as the materials for realizing electrically tunable optics is foldable. A method for manufacturing the flexible element includes patterned photo-polymerization. The LC optics can include a pair of LC layers with orthogonally aligned LC directors for polarizer-free properties, flexible polymeric alignment layers, flexible substrates, and a module for controlling the electric field. The lens power of the LC optics can be changed by controlling the distribution of electric field across the optical zone. Lens power control can be provided using combinations of electrode configurations, drive signals and anchoring strengths in the alignment layers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/08 - Auxiliary lensesArrangements for varying focal length
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• G02C 11/00 - Non-optical adjunctsAttachment thereof
• G02F 1/1339 - GasketsSpacersSealing of cells
• G02F 1/29 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the position or the direction of light beams, i.e. deflection

Abstract

Methods and devices to identify contact lens wearers predisposed to contact lens discomfort are described. The methods and devices involve obtaining a tear film sample from a person and determining an amount of interleukin-17A present in the tear film sample.

IPC Classes  ?

• C07K 16/24 - Immunoglobulins, e.g. monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies against material from animals or humans against cytokines, lymphokines or interferons

Abstract

Methods are disclosed for manufacturing a coated contact lens that comprises a polymeric lens body comprising an acid group, a first coating polymer comprising a first amine group ionically bound to the acid group, and a second coating bound to the first coating polymer through covalent linkage between a nitrogen atom of a second amine group on the first coating polymer and an amine-reactive group of the second coating polymer. In some examples the lenses exhibit improved surface properties compared to uncoated lenses, such as reduced adhesion, increased wettability, increased lubricity, and/or increased lipid resistance.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

Systems and techniques are provided for a data matching system having a plurality of clients and a master catalog. In a learning phase of a client, the data matching system builds a client matching table for the client and matches the input request to a specific entry in a particular set of entries in the master catalog. In a post-learning phase of the client, the data matching system uses the client matching table to match the input request to a specific entry in a particular set of entries in the master catalog. In a specific implementation, the data matching system uses a two- step match to build the client matching table. In a first step, a plurality of a set of entries in the master catalog is selected for the input request. In a second step, a particular set of entries is selected using a confidence score.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor

Abstract

Contact lenses that have an ion-impermeable portion and an ion-permeable portion that are able to move on the eye without binding to the eye are described. The contact lenses exhibit an average ionoflux transmittance of at least 1.34x10-4 mm/min. One or more electronic components can be included in the contact lenses. Methods of making the contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

Methods and systems for tracking ocular vergence movements of an eye of a person are described. The methods and systems involve placement of flexible/stretchable skin-like electrodes on a person's head and recording the biopotential or electrooculogram of the person as the eye or eyes move to different focal positions, such as near distances, intermediate distances, and far distances. A data acquisition unit can record the electrooculogram and transmit the electrooculogram data to a computer for classification or for further processing. The data can be used with ophthalmic devices to provide a visual change for a person with the ophthalmic device.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 3/14 - Arrangements specially adapted for eye photography
• G02B 3/14 - Fluid-filled or evacuated lenses of variable focal length

Abstract

A flexible optical element adopting liquid crystals (LCs) as the materials for realizing electrically tunable optics is foldable. A method for manufacturing the flexible element includes patterned photo-polymerization. The LC optics can include a pair of LC layers with orthogonally aligned LC directors for polarizer-free properties, flexible polymeric alignment layers, flexible substrates, and a module for controlling the electric field. The lens power of the LC optics can be changed by controlling the distribution of electric field across the optical zone.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• G02F 1/1333 - Constructional arrangements
• G02C 7/08 - Auxiliary lensesArrangements for varying focal length
• G02F 1/1339 - GasketsSpacersSealing of cells

Abstract

Contact lenses having even surface coatings are manufactured by coating a polyvinyl alcohol polymer on a lens-forming surface of a contact lens mold, applying a contact lens coating composition onto the polyvinyl alcohol polymer, and curing a contact lens formulation in the coated contact lens mold. During curing, the coating composition transfers from the mold to the contact lens surface. The polyvinyl alcohol helps prevent the contact lens coating composition from being solubilized by the contact lens composition during the curing step.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 37/00 - Component parts, details, accessories or auxiliary operations, not covered by group or
• B29L 11/00 - Optical elements, e.g. lenses, prisms

Abstract

A contact lens has a central region and an annular region surrounding the central region, the central region having a first optical power and the annular region having a second optical power. In a method of measuring the add power, the wavefront aberration of the contact lens is measured; a polynomial is fitted to the measured wavefront aberration. Terms of the polynomial correspond to types of aberration comprising defocus and astigmatism and residual aberrations. The add power is calculated as a defocus corresponding to the residual aberrations.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems

Abstract

A contact lens comprises a hydrogel lens body and a non-expandable object embedded within the hydrogel lens body. The surface energy of the non-expandable object and the modulus of the hydrogel lens body are selected so as to reduce distortion during hydration of the hydrogel.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• G02C 7/08 - Auxiliary lensesArrangements for varying focal length

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a contact lens (110) is disclosed. The method comprises manufacturing a rod of lens material (101), the rod (101) containing a plurality of electronic components (102) spaced apart along its length, separating the rod (101) into a plurality of lens blanks (106), each lens blank (106) containing at least one of said electronic components (102), and machining the front and/or back surface of a lens blank (106) to produce a contact lens (110) containing the at least one electronic component (102).

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

A wettable silicone hydrogel contact lens having a low ionoflux and low evaporation is manufactured by curing a silicone hydrogel polymerizable composition in a contact lens mold comprising front and back lens-forming surfaces, where one of the lens-forming surfaces has a higher polarity than the other lens-forming surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Goods & Services

Wetting and sterilizing solutions, all for contact lenses; cleaning, disinfecting, neutralising and rinsing preparations and solutions, all for contact lenses.

Abstract

A silicone elastomer-hydrogel hybrid contact lens includes a silicone elastomer layer and a hydrogel layer adhered to the silicone elastomer layerby a delamination-resistant bond that is formed by an elastomer-swellable monomer that is included in the polymerizable composition used to form the hydrogel layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

A silicone elastomer-silicone hydrogel hybrid contact lens comprises a silicone elastomer layer adhered tosilicone hydrogel layer by a delamination-resistant bond. The silicone hydrogel of the silicone hydrogel layer has apercentswell of about -5% up to about 20%. The silicone elastomer layer may have one or more objects embedded within it or adhered to its surface. Such objects may include variable-focus lenses and/or electronic components.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

A contact lens blister package (1) includes (i) a cavity (4) for storing a contact lens (20) and (ii) charging circuitry (3) configured to charge an electronic device (22) forming part of a contact lens (20) stored in said cavity (4). Related methods are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
• H02J 50/12 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling of the resonant type

Abstract

Contact lens packaging (2) including two or more individual, sealed blister packs (1) coupled together by a connecting label (5), which includes a uni-axial shear polymer film (6). The connecting label (5) is arranged and oriented such that the tear direction of the polymer film (6) is parallel to a line (A) bisecting adjacent blister packs (1). Methods of binding together two or more blister packs (1) are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 81/22 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient in moist conditions or immersed in liquids
• B65B 25/00 - Packaging other articles presenting special problems
• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are packaged in a packaging solution including an ophthalmically-acceptable concentration of a surfactant to provide a contact lens having a lower coefficient of friction compared to a control lens that is not packaged in the surfactant. The surfactant is a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-containingsurfactant having a molecular weight of up to about 6,000 daltons, or is an alkyl aryl-containing surfactant, or is both an alkyl aryl and PEO-containing surfactant having a molecular weight of up to about 6,000 daltons. Methods of manufacturing silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• C11D 1/66 - Non-ionic compounds

Goods & Services

Wetting and sterilizing solutions, all for contact lenses; cleaning, disinfecting, neutralising and rinsing preparations and solutions, all for contact lenses.

Abstract

In a method of manufacturing an ophthalmic lens, a target value for an optical property is selected (500) for the ophthalmic lens. A first mold member (400) is formed (505) for cast-molding the ophthalmic lens in combination with a second mold member. A property of the first mold member(400)is measured (510), the measured property correlating with the optical property of the ophthalmic lens. A determination (520) is made as to whether the measured property of the first mold member (400) is consistent with the target value of the optical property of the ophthalmic lens. If the measured property of the first mold member (400) is consistent with the target value of the optical property of the ophthalmic lens, the manufacture of the ophthalmic lens continues (530). If the measured property of the first mold member (400) is not consistent with the target value of the optical property of the ophthalmic lens, the first mold member (400) is discarded (540).

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/70 - Maintenance

Abstract

A collet (230) for holding a contact lens mold half (240) during machining of a surface of the mold half (240) comprises a disc (235) having a face and defining: a central structure (250a), at the centre of the face, for receiving a head portion (240a) of the mold half (240), and an elongate recess (250b), in the face, for receiving a tail portion (240b) of the mold half (240), the elongate recess (250b) extending from the central structure (250a) along a radius of the disc (235).

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B23B 31/30 - Chucks characterised by features relating primarily to remote control of the gripping means using fluid-pressure means in the chuck

Abstract

A method of manufacturing an ophthalmic lens using a first mold portion (4A) and a puck assembly (80). The puck assembly (80) comprises a carrier puck (40). The puck assembly (80) supports at least one of the first mold portion (4A) and the lens during at least two of the following ophthalmic lens manufacturing steps: assembling the first mold portion (4A) and a second mold portion (4B) into a mold assembly (2) including a lens-defining cavity (12) containing a lens precursor material; curing the lens precursor material in the mold assembly (2) to form a lens; separating the mold assembly (2) such that the lens remains attached to the first mold portion (4A); detaching the lens from the first mold portion (4A); extracting unwanted material from the lens; hydrating the lens; inspecting the lens, and packaging the lens.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are described for manufacturing contact lenses employing dissolvable mold structure. The apparatus and methods involve approaches to dissolve at least portions of a mold (10) and to separate a lens(760) from the mold (10) to present the lens (760) for collection.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/52 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor with means for, or specially constructed to facilitate, the removal of articles, e.g. of undercut articles soluble or fusible

Abstract

A tray (20)for holding contact lens mold assemblies (70) during thermal curing of a contact lens precursor material in an oven 210 to form contact lenses. The tray (20) comprises a plurality of plates (60) and a frame (25) supporting the plates (60). The frame (25) is configured to be stacked vertically with a plurality of identical frames to form a tray stack (10). Each plate (60) is a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer plate and comprises a plurality of support structures (110) each arranged to support one contact lens mold assembly (70) during curing and a plurality of channels (90, 100) connecting the support structures (110), to allow gases to flow between them in the tray stack (10) during curing.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

Technology to determine the angle of repose of a lens, such as the angle of repose of a contact lens on an eye, includes storing an image including the lens captured using a camera and executing graphical user interface logic. The graphical user interface logic includes a frame or frames including the captured image, and graphical constructs prompting input identifying a set of locations on the captured image that are usable to define a location of the lens in the image, and a location usable to define an angle of repose of the lens in the image. The input data accepted via the graphical user interface is processed to determine angle of repose of the lens. The angle of repose of the lens is used to produce a specification for a lens.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems
• A61B 3/00 - Apparatus for testing the eyesInstruments for examining the eyes
• A61B 3/10 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Goods & Services

Wetting and sterilizing solutions, all for contact lenses; cleaning, disinfecting, neutralising and rinsing preparations and solutions, all for contact lenses.

Goods & Services

Solutions and cleaning preparations for contact lenses.

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for exchanging tools and/or tool assemblies used to form different types of molds for in injection-molding machines, are described. The exchange of tools and/or tool assemblies is made using a robot. Contact lens mold halves and assemblies for molding contact lenses of different powers or types can be made with a single injection-molding apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 45/17 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
• B29C 45/00 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mouldApparatus therefor

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses by bringing together a pair of mold halves (2,5) to form a closed mold assembly, are described. The method includes measuring a force applied to bring the mold halves (2,5) together. The apparatus includes at least one force sensor (4) in operative communication with a single pair of mold halves (2,5), and a controller (10) for controlling a velocity of movement of a mold half (5) and for determining when a measured force or average measured force is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold force.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

A method of removing an ophthalmic lens from a lens mold portion is provided and includes reciprocally displacing a region of the mold portion and thereby causing an edge portion of the ophthalmic lenses to become detached from the mold portion. Related apparatus, methods of manufacturing ophthalmic lenses, delensing stations, and manufacturing times are provided.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are described for manufacturing contact lenses by forming a contact lens mold half, and removing the mold half. The mold half can then be combined with a complementary mold half and used to cast- mold a contact lens. The apparatus includes first and second plates each carrying tool halves. The plates reciprocate between an open, spaced apart configuration, and a closed configuration in which they hold complementary tool halves in contact with one another. When the plates are opened after forming a mold half, a gripper plate removes the mold half from the first plate or the second plate.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 45/42 - Removing or ejecting moulded articles using means movable from outside the mould between mould parts
• B29C 45/00 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mouldApparatus therefor

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for manufacturing contact lenses, including demolding contact lens mold assemblies (200), are described. The apparatus can include a curved wedge separator (130) having an increasing thickness circumferentially from a leading end (133) towards a trailing end (134), and an increasing radial thickness from an outer circumferential edge (132) towards a central axis. The apparatus can also include a driver (150). The method can include rotating the separator (130) around a concentric central axis and directing the separator (130) to wedge the separator (130) between or against one or more different mold portions of a mold assembly (200).

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Goods & Services

Solutions and cleaning preparations for contact lenses.

Abstract

A method for manufacturing a silicone hydrogel contact lens is described that comprises curing a polymerizable composition comprising at least one siloxane monomer and at least one hydrophilic vinyl-containing monomer in a contact lens mold comprising a molding surface having a coating comprising a hydrophilic polymer. The hydrophilic coating is not solubilized by the polymerizable composition during the curing step. The resulting polymeric lens body is removed from the mold, washed to remove any of the hydrophilic polymer that may have transferred from the mold surface to the lens during the curing or lens removal process, and packaged to provide a silicone hydrogel contact lens having a contact angle that is lower than what it would otherwise be had the lens been cured in the same contact lens mold lacking the hydrophilic coating.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

Methods for making ophthalmic lenses are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to plastic injection molded ophthalmic lens molds that are machined or lens buttons located on the injection molds that are machined. The machine process can include setting a lens axis of the ophthalmic lens and machining a ballast that is aligned to a major axis of a toric zone.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B23B 31/30 - Chucks characterised by features relating primarily to remote control of the gripping means using fluid-pressure means in the chuck
• B23B 31/36 - Chucks with means for adjusting the chuck with respect to the working-spindle

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are provided for adaptively focusing a lens. In one approach, electromagnetic energy is employed to modify a shape or thickness of a lens such that its refractive power and focal length are modified. In one aspect, a lens embodying adaptive focus features requires low power, and can be adjusted quickly. One or a plurality of electromagnets can be employed to compress or separate end portions of an embedded haptic, the force from which acts to alter the shape of the haptic, thus modifying the refractive power and focal length of a lens.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 3/14 - Fluid-filled or evacuated lenses of variable focal length
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• G02C 7/08 - Auxiliary lensesArrangements for varying focal length

Abstract

A sealed contact lens package contains a sterile, unworn contact lens and a contact lens packaging solution comprising epsilon polylysine (εPLL). The εPLL protects the contact lens from microbial contamination caused by handling the lens when it is removed from its package.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61L 2/28 - Devices for testing the effectiveness or completeness of sterilisation, e.g. indicators which change colour
• G02B 5/124 - Reflex reflectors cube corner, trihedral or triple reflector type plural reflecting elements forming part of a unitary plate or sheet
• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

An ophthalmic composition for administration to an eye of a patient for the treatment of an ocular infection. The ophthalmic composition contains an ε-polylysine (εPL) in an amount effective to treat or control or prevent the ocular infection.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 9/00 - Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
• A61K 38/16 - Peptides having more than 20 amino acidsGastrinsSomatostatinsMelanotropinsDerivatives thereof

Abstract

A contact lens package includes a sealed contact lens package and a wrap coupled to the sealed contact lens package. The wrap has one or more panels. One of more of the panels includes a printed surface that includes a unique device identifier, which is provided in both human readable form that includes numbers or letters, or both, and machine readable form, such as a bar code. A method of manufacturing a contact lens package includes providing the sealed contact lens package and coupling the wrap to the sealed contact lens package.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 75/52 - Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers Details
• B65D 77/04 - Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
• B65D 71/12 - Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottlesBales of material comprising a plurality of articles completely or mainly held together by packaging elements, e.g. under tension the packaging elements being formed by folding a single blank
• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents

Goods & Services

Wetting and sterilizing solutions, all for contact lenses;  cleaning, disinfecting, neutralising and rinsing preparations and substances, all for contact lenses; solutions, preparations and liquids for cleaning and maintenance of contact lenses. Contact lenses; ocular lenses; ophthalmic lenses; spectacles; frames; lenses and lens blanks; contact lens containers and carrying cases; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods.

Abstract

HEMA-compatible siloxane monomers are described that can be used to manufacture contact lenses that combine the attributes of HEMA-based contact lenses with the high oxygen permeability of silicone hydrogel lenses. Optically clear silicone hydrogel contact lens can be manufactured that comprise a polymeric lens body that is the reaction product of a polymerizable composition comprising: a) at least 25 wt.% of at least one hydroxyalkyl methacrylate; and b) at least 20 wt. % of at least one HEMA-compatible polysiloxane.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/12 - Polysiloxanes containing silicon bound to hydrogen
• C08F 230/08 - Copolymers of compounds having one or more unsaturated aliphatic radicals, each having only one carbon-to-carbon double bond, and containing phosphorus, selenium, tellurium or a metal containing a metal containing silicon
• C08G 77/14 - Polysiloxanes containing silicon bound to oxygen-containing groups
• C08G 77/20 - Polysiloxanes containing silicon bound to unsaturated aliphatic groups
• C08L 33/06 - Homopolymers or copolymers of esters of esters containing only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, the oxygen atom being present only as part of the carboxyl radical
• C08L 83/06 - Polysiloxanes containing silicon bound to oxygen-containing groups
• C08L 83/12 - Block- or graft-copolymers containing polysiloxane sequences containing polyether sequences
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

The invention relates to a method of making a contact lens, the method comprising identifying the eccentricity of a lens produced in a mould half, lathing the lens and adjusting the path of the lathe to take account of the eccentricity, and a computer programme for controlling the lathe.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for removing flash (13) from contact lens mold members (10) by cutting the flash from the mold member. The flash is removed by rotating a deflashing element (121, 221) or rotating a mold member, or both. After the flash is removed, the unfinished contact lens (16) attached to the mold member can be further processed, which may include cutting an optical surface onto the contact lens.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 37/02 - Deburring or deflashing

Abstract

A mould for the production of a contact lens, the mould comprising a first mould half shaped to provide the front surface of the contact lens; and a second mould half shaped to provide the rear surface of the contact lens, wherein the first and second mould halves form a mould cavity,wherein the first mould half has a first rim and the second mould half has a second rim, and the first and second rims fit together to provide a seal for the mould cavity, wherein the first rim is inclined at an angle of x relative to an axis passing through the centre of the first and second mould halves, wherein x is from 30 to 60˚, and wherein the second rim is inclined at an angle of x-y relative to the axis passing through the centre of the first and second mould halves, where y is from 0 to 4˚, and wherein the first and second rims provide a guide for the mould halves, a method of making a contact lens using the mould and a method of making a mould.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Goods & Services

Ophthalmic preparations; wetting and sterilizing solutions, all for contact lenses; eye drops; eye-wash; preparations, substances and solutions for use with contact lenses; cleaning, storage, disinfecting, neutralising and rinsing preparations and substances for contact lenses; saline solutions for use with contact lenses; medicated preparations for use by contact lens wearers. Contact lenses; ocular lenses; ophthalmic lenses; spectacles; frames for spectacles and sunglasses; lenses and lens blanks; contact lens containers and carrying cases; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Consulting services in the field of vision correction and contact lenses; vision care services; ophthalmic and optician services.

Goods & Services

Contact lenses; ocular lenses; ophthalmic lenses; spectacles; frames for spectacles and sunglasses; lenses and lens blanks; contact lens containers and carrying cases; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods.

Abstract

Method and apparatus of manufacturing a toric contact lens comprising providing a toric insert (12) without an orientation mark to be used in forming a toric contact lens mold section; placing the toric insert without an orientation mark in an orientation mark fixture (10) comprising a single piece fixture housing (20) structured to hold a toric insert at an angle specified for an orientation mark, the fixture housing having intersecting surfaces (36, 40) which form a generally V-shaped region on which the toric insert is located, the generally V-shaped region contacting the toric insert at two different contact points, lines or areas; fixing the toric insert without an orientation mark to the orientation mark fixture; forming an orientation mark on the toric insert fixed to the orientation mark fixture; using the toric insert with the orientation mark to form a toric contact lens mold section; and using the toric contact lens mold section to form a toric contact lens.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B25B 5/10 - Arrangements for positively actuating jaws using screws
• B25B 5/14 - Clamps for work of special profile

Abstract

Miscible polymerizable compositions comprising at least one primary amine- containing methacrylate monomer, or at least one primary amine- containing methacrylamide monomer, in addition to 20-80 wt.% siloxane monomer, 20-80 wt.% hydrophilic monomer, cross-linking agent, and polymerization initiator, are described. These polymerizable compositions can be used to form silicone hydrogel contact lenses, and in methods of manufacturing silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

A method is provided for manufacturing ophthalmically-acceptable, distortion-free silicone hydrogel contact lenses without the use of volatile organic solvents in the manufacturing process. The contact lenses are extract with an extraction liquid comprising an aqueous solution of a non-volatile organic solvent, such as ethyl lactate.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

A polymerizable dye for use in contact lens formulations is prepared by combining a reactive dye comprising a sulfonatooxyethylsulfonyl group with a linking agent having at least two functional groups to form an intermediate dye comprising at least one pendant functional group to which is attached a polymerizable group.

IPC Classes  ?

• D06P 5/00 - Other features in dyeing or printing textiles or dyeing leather, furs or solid macromolecular substances in any form
• C09B 1/473 - Dyes with acylated amino groups the acyl groups being residues of a sulfonic acid
• D06P 1/38 - General processes of dyeing or printing textiles or general processes of dyeing leather, furs or solid macromolecular substances in any form, classified according to the dyes, pigments or auxiliary substances employed using reactive dyes
• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses comprising an ionic component sustain release of beneficial cationic polymers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• A61F 9/00 - Methods or devices for treatment of the eyesDevices for putting in contact-lensesDevices to correct squintingApparatus to guide the blindProtective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• B65B 55/02 - Sterilising, e.g. of complete packages

Abstract

Antimicrobial ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses, ocular inserts, ocular bandages, and intraocular lenses comprise a hydrogel and an antimicrobially-effective amount of epsilon polylysine non-covalently attached to the hydrogel.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• A61F 9/00 - Methods or devices for treatment of the eyesDevices for putting in contact-lensesDevices to correct squintingApparatus to guide the blindProtective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand

Abstract

Contact lenses comprising an ionic component are packaged with a beneficial cationic agent in a temperature-sensitive packaging solution and/or a low ionic strength packaging solution.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• A61F 9/00 - Methods or devices for treatment of the eyesDevices for putting in contact-lensesDevices to correct squintingApparatus to guide the blindProtective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand

Abstract

Contact lenses comprising phosphorylcholine groups release beneficial polyionic or guanidinium-containing agents.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• A61F 9/00 - Methods or devices for treatment of the eyesDevices for putting in contact-lensesDevices to correct squintingApparatus to guide the blindProtective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
• A01N 43/08 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing heterocyclic compounds having rings with one or more oxygen or sulfur atoms as the only ring hetero atom with one hetero atom five-membered rings with oxygen as the ring hetero atom
• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups

Abstract

Optically clear silicone hydrogel contact lenses are described that comprise a polymeric lens body that is the reaction product of a polymerizable composition comprising at least 25 wt.% of at least one hydroxyalkyl methacrylate; and at least 20 wt. % of at least one HEMA-compatible bifunctional polysiloxane comprising at least 6 siloxane groups and having an HLB value of at least 5 and/or a hydroxyl group content of at least 1wt.%.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• C08G 77/46 - Block- or graft-polymers containing polysiloxane sequences containing polyether sequences

Abstract

Contact lens blister packages and methods of manufacturing packaged contact lenses, the devices including a thermoplastic base member (22) comprising a proximal end region (34) having a grip portion (62), a distal end region (36), a first side region (38), a second side region (40), and a cavity (26); wherein the cavity comprises a bottom wall (48) having a bottom wall perimeter (54) and a sidewall (50) extending upwardly from the bottom wall perimeter (54) to an upper cavity edge defining a cavity perimeter (28); the cavity perimeter comprises a substantially linear portion and a non-linear portion opposing the substantially linear portion; and a plane (59) formed at the intersection of the bottom wall perimeter (54) with the sidewall (50) slopes away from the substantially linear portion of the cavity perimeter (28).

IPC Classes  ?

• A45C 11/00 - Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups
• B65D 75/32 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents

Abstract

Multifocal contact lenses and methods and uses are described. The multifocal contact lenses include an optic zone. The optic zone has an aspheric power profile that provides a near vision refractive power and a distance vision refractive power, and provides an Add power that corresponds to the difference between the near vision refractive power and the distance vision refractive power. The multifocal contact lenses can improve binocular vision of presbyopic subjects by being prescribed such that the non-dominant eye contact lens is over-corrected for distance vision, and both multifocal contact lenses are under-corrected for the Add power requirement of the subject. Batches and sets of multifocal contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Multifocal contact lenses and methods and uses are described. The multifocal contact lenses include an optic zone. The optic zone has an aspheric power profile that provides a near vision refractive power and a distance vision refractive power, and provides an Add power that corresponds to the difference between the near vision refractive power and the distance vision refractive power. The multifocal contact lenses can improve binocular vision of presbyopic subjects by being prescribed such that the non-dominant eye contact lens is over-corrected for distance vision, and both multifocal contact lenses are under-corrected for the Add power requirement of the subject. Batches and sets of multifocal contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Multifocal contact lenses and methods and uses are described. The multifocal contact lenses include an optic zone. The optic zone has an aspheric power profile that provides a near vision refractive power and a distance vision refractive power, and provides an Add power that corresponds to the difference between the near vision refractive power and the distance vision refractive power. The multifocal contact lenses can improve binocular vision of presbyopic subjects by being prescribed such that the non-dominant eye contact lens is over-corrected for distance vision, and both multifocal contact lenses are under-corrected for the Add power requirement of the subject. Batches and sets of multifocal contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Multifocal contact lenses and methods and uses are described. The multifocal contact lenses include an optic zone. The optic zone has an aspheric power profile that provides a near vision refractive power and a distance vision refractive power, and provides an Add power that corresponds to the difference between the near vision refractive power and the distance vision refractive power. The multifocal contact lenses can improve binocular vision of presbyopic subjects by being prescribed such that the non-dominant eye contact lens is over-corrected for distance vision, and both multifocal contact lenses are under-corrected for the Add power requirement of the subject. Batches and sets of multifocal contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Method and apparatus for manufacturing a contact lens comprising: dispensing a plurality of separate portions (24) of a liquid composition onto a contact lens mold section (12, 16), each separate portion of the liquid composition having a volume of less than about 1000 nano-liters.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 39/24 - Feeding the material into the mould

Abstract

A method and system for manufacturing a contact lens are disclosed involving aligning a male lens mold section and a female lens mold section. A picking head removes a male lens mold section from a male pallet for transfer to a female mold section on a female pallet. The picking head may move substantially freely in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the picking head as the distance between the male and female mold sections decreases. Alignment, for example, substantially precise alignment between the male mold section, carried by the picking head, and the female mold section carried by the female pallet may be achieved before the male mold section comes in contact with the female mold section.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 3/00 - Apparatus for testing the eyesInstruments for examining the eyes

Abstract

A method for preparing a polymerizable monomer-dye compound is provided in which a monomer, a reactive dye, and base are combined under substantially anhydrous reaction conditions to form the polymerizable monomer-dye compound, wherein the monomer comprises a pendant reactive group that covalently links to the reactive dye to form the monomer-dye compound.

IPC Classes  ?

• D06P 5/00 - Other features in dyeing or printing textiles or dyeing leather, furs or solid macromolecular substances in any form

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses that are derived from a polymerizable composition including at least one siloxane monomer and at least one hydrophobic ethylene glycol methyl ether methacrylate-containing monomer, or at least one hydrophilic vinyl ether-containing monomer, or both, wherein, when the at least one hydrophobic ethylene glycol methyl ether methacrylate-containing monomer is present in the polymerizable composition, it is present in an amount of from 1 to 20 unit parts by weight, and when the at least one hydrophilic vinyl ethercontaining monomer is present in the polymerizable composition, it is present in an amount of from 1 to 20 unit parts by weighs are described. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08F 290/06 - Polymers provided for in subclass

Abstract

Hydrogel contact lenses that are derived from a polymerizable composition including at least one hydrophilic monomer and at least one phosphine-containing component are described. The hydrogel of the contact lenses can be a silicone hydrogel or a non-silicone hydrogel. Use of polymerizable compositions comprising a phosphine-containing component can be cured under both inert and air atmospheres, and can be used to form hydrogel contact lenses having improved shape retention properties, having improved resistance to discoloration. Batches of hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

Abstract

Dimensionally stable silicone hydrogel contact lenses and manufacturing processes are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (1), wherein R1, R2, m and n are as defined herein; the lenses also include units derived from a second siloxane monomer represented by formula (2), wherein R1, R2, m, n, a and b are as defined herein; the second siloxane monomer having a number average molecular weight of at least 3,000 daltons that is present in the polymerizable composition in an amount such that ratio of the first siloxane monomer to the second siloxane monomer is at least 2:1 based on unit parts by weight.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• B29C 39/00 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressureApparatus therefor

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses that have good dimensional stability, are ophthalmically-acceptable, and can be manufactured without the use of alcohol solvents are formed from the reaction product of a polymerizable composition comprising at least one mono-functional acrylate-containing siloxane monomer having a molecular weight of less than 2,000; at least one bi-functional acrylate-containing siloxane monomer having a molecular weight of at least 3,000; and at least one hydrophilic vinyl-containing monomer, wherein the polymerizable composition has a molar ratio of total amount of mono- functional acrylate-containing siloxane monomer to total amount of bi-functional acrylate- containing siloxane monomer of at least 30:1, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Ophthalmic ally acceptably wettable silicone hydrogel contact lenses are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (I): wherein m, n, R1 and R2 are as defined herein, the first siloxane monomer having a number average molecular weight of from 400 daltons to 700 daltons; and a second siloxane monomer having a number average molecular weight greater than 7,000 daltons; wherein a total amount of siloxane monomers present in the polymerizable composition is from 30 unit parts to 50 unit parts; the lenses also include units derived from at least one hydrophilic amide monomer having one N-vinyl group that is present in the polymerizable composition in an amount from 30 to 60 unit parts. The lenses have ophthalmically acceptably wettable lens surfaces when fully hydrated.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Low modulus silicone hydrogel contact lenses are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (1): wherein m of formula (1) represents one integer from 3 to 10, n of formula (1) represents one integer from 1 to 10, R1 of formula (1) is an alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and each R2 of formula (1) is independently either a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; the lenses also include units derived from a second siloxane monomer, or at least one cross-linking agent, or both. The average modulus of the silicone hydrogel contact lenses is from about 0.30 MPa to about 0.90 MPa when the lenses are fully hydrated. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are formed from the reaction product of a polymerizable composition comprising at least one acrylate-containing siloxane monomer, at least one hydrophilic vinyl-containing monomer, and at least one vinyl-containing cross-linking agent. The contact lenses have ophthalmically-acceptable ionoflux values and surface wettability, and can be manufactured without the use of volatile organic solvents.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including 30-60 unit parts by weight of a hydrophilic monomer(s) having one N-vinyl group, 10 to 50 unit parts by weight of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and a first siloxane monomer component comprising a siloxane monomer of formula (1) as described herein or a siloxane monomer of formula (2) as described herein or a siloxane monomer of formula (3) as described herein or any combination thereof, where the total amount of siloxane monomer(s) present in the polymerizable composition is from 15 to 40 unit parts by weight. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are produced without using volatile organic solvents to extract materials from the polymerized contact lens bodies, and instead are washed with aqueous liquids. The silicone hydrogel contact lenses so produced have ophthalmically wettable lens surfaces. The hydrated silicone hydrogel contact lenses have diameters that are at least 24% larger than the diameters of the silicone hydrogel contact lenses prior to hydration or washing.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are produced without using volatile organic solvents to extract materials from the polymerized contact lens bodies, and instead are washed with aqueous liquids. The silicone hydrogel contact lenses so produced have ophthalmically wettable lens surfaces such that less than five percent of a batch of twenty or more such silicone hydrogel contact lenses have visually identifiable non-wetting spots when the contact lenses are located on eyes of subjects.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes
• B29C 39/00 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressureApparatus therefor

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses having a high water content are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (1): wherein m of formula (1) represents one integer from 3 to 10, n of formula (1) represents one integer from 1 to 10, R1 of formula (1) is an alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and each R2 of formula (1) is independently either a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; the lenses also include units derived from a second siloxane monomer having a number average molecular weight of at least 7,000 daltons, and at least one vinyl- containing cross-linking agent. The lenses have average equilibrium water contents from about 30% wt/wt to about 70% wt/wt when fully hydrated. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08G 77/04 - Polysiloxanes
• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are formed from the reaction product of a polymerizable composition comprising at least one acrylate-containing siloxane monomer, at least one hydrophilic vinyl-containing monomer, and at least one vinyl-containing cross-linking agent, wherein the polymerizable composition has a molar ratio of total amount of hydrophilic vinyl-containing monomer to total amount of acrylate-containing siloxane monomer of from 5:1 to 30:1, respectively. The silicone hydrogel contact lenses have good manufacturing processability, can be manufactured without the use of alcohol solvents, and have excellent surface wettability.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses having ophthalmically acceptable levels of energy loss are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (1): wherein m of formula (1) represents one integer from 3 to 10, n of formula (1) represents one integer from 1 to 10, R1 of formula (1) is an alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and each R2 of formula (1) is independently either a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; the lenses also include units derived from a second siloxane monomer which is a dual-end methacrylate end-capped polydimethylsiloxane having a number average molecular weight of at least 7,000 daltons. The average energy loss of the silicone hydrogel contact lenses is from about 30% to about 45% when the lenses are fully hydrated. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses that are derived from a polymerizable composition including at least one siloxane monomer and at least one hydrophilic monomer are described. These silicone hydrogel contact lenses have, when fully hydrated, has an equilibrium freezable water content of at least 25% wt/wt as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are formed from the reaction product of a polymerizable composition comprising at least one hydrophilic vinyl amide-containing monomer, at least one acrylate-containing siloxane monomer, and at least one hydrophilic vinyl ether-containing monomer. The contact lenses have ophthalmically-acceptable surface wettability and can be manufactured without the use of volatile organic solvents.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses that are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (3): wherein m of formula (3) represents one integer from 3 to 10, n of formula (3) represents one integer from 1 to 10, R1 of formula (3) is an alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and each R2 of formula (3) is independently either a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; and at least one vinyl ether-containing cross-linking agent are described. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described. In one example, the batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses are dimensionally stable, and the method of making is a method of making dimensionally stable silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including 30-60 unit parts by weight of a hydrophilic monomer(s) having one N-vinyl group; 1 to 30 unit parts by weight of a first siloxane monomer component comprising a siloxane monomer of formula (1) as described herein or a siloxane monomer of formula (2) as described herein or a siloxane monomer of formula (3) as described herein or any combination thereof; and 10 to 39 unit parts by weight of a second siloxane monomer component comprising 3-[tris (trimethylsilyloxy) silyl] propyl methacrylate (TRIS), or MCS-M11, or both; where the polymerizable composition is free of Ν,Ν-dimethylacrylamide (DMA); and a total amount of siloxane monomers present in the polymerizable composition is from 15 to 40 unit parts by weight. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes

Abstract

Methods, devices, and systems for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses are described in which lens bodies (66) are placed in cavities (52) of lens carriers (44) that are fluidly connected to reservoirs (70), flow ducts (72) and sub-cavity base channels (76) that provide enhanced washing and wet processing of the lenses.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B08B 3/04 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid

Abstract

Ophthalmic device molds made from at least one highly amorphous vinyl alcohol polymer, ophthalmic devices such as ocular inserts and contact lenses and including silicone hydrogel devices formed using these molds, and related methods are described. The methods of manufacturing ophthalmic devices can use dry or wet demolding processes, or dry or wet delensing processes.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

Ophthalmic lens molds made from at least one vinyl alcohol copolymers with high amorphous content, ophthalmic lenses including silicone hydrogel contact lenses formed using these molds, packaged ophthalmic lenses present in a solution comprising the at least one vinyl alcohol copolymer with high amorphous content, and related methods are described. The methods of manufacturing ophthalmic lenses can use wet demolding, delensing or demolding and delensing processes involving dissolving the molds in water or an aqueous solution.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process
• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B65B 25/00 - Packaging other articles presenting special problems

Abstract

Ophthalmic device molds made from at least one vinyl alcohol copolymer and having a static sessile drop contact angle of less than 70 degrees, ophthalmic devices such as ocular inserts and contact lenses and including silicone hydrogel devices formed using these molds, and related methods are described. The methods of manufacturing ophthalmic devices can use dry or wet demolding processes, or dry or wet delensing processes.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics

Abstract

Ophthalmic device molds made from a first portion of a molding surface formed from a first polymer and a second portion of the molding surface formed from a second polymer are described. When combined, the first portion and the second portion of the molding surface form an entire molding surface suitable for molding an entire surface, such as an anterior surface or a posterior surface of an ophthalmic device. Methods of manufacturing ophthalmic devices using these molds, including contact lenses, are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process

Abstract

Silicone hydrogel ophthalmic devices, such as ocular inserts and contact lenses, formed in direct contact with molds comprising at least one vinyl alcohol copolymer and related methods are described. The at least one vinyl alcohol copolymer of the molds is a vinyl alcohol copolymer other than an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer. The methods of manufacturing ophthalmic devices can use dry or wet demolding processes, or dry or wet delensing processes.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• B65B 25/00 - Packaging other articles presenting special problems

Abstract

Ophthalmic device molds made from at least one water-soluble vinyl alcohol copolymer, ophthalmic devices such as ocular inserts and contact lenses and including silicone hydrogel devices formed using these molds, packaged ophthalmic devices present in a solution comprising the at least one water-soluble vinyl alcohol copolymer, and related methods are described. The methods of manufacturing ophthalmic devices can use wet demolding processes, or wet delensing processes or both wet demolding and wet delensing processes involving dissolving the molds in water or an aqueous solution.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• B65B 25/00 - Packaging other articles presenting special problems

Abstract

Methods of manufacturing contact lenses using ophthalmic lens molds having a molding surface comprising a thermoplastic polymer, the molding surface having a percent polarity from 3% to 20% and a surface energy from about 25 mN/m to about 40 mN/m to cast mold a polymerizable composition having a surface tension from about 20 mN/m to about 25 mN/m, wherein a surface energy differential of the surface tension of the polymerizable composition less the surface energy of the molding surface less than or equal to zero (0); and silicone hydrogel contact lens bodies so manufactured are described.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/38 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the material or the manufacturing process
• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems

Abstract

Ophthalmic lens molds made from one or more thermoplastic polymer having a low level of UV light transmittance (UV %T) ophthalmic lenses including silicone hydrogel contact lenses molded using these thermoplastic polymer having low UV %T, and methods of manufacturing ophthalmic lenses by cast molding a polymerizable composition in mold members formed of these thermoplastic polymers having low UV %T and curing the polymerizable composition using UV light are described.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• G02C 7/00 - Optical parts

Abstract

Ophthalmic lens molds made from one or more thermoplastic polymers with average polarities from about 1% to about 7%, ophthalmic lenses including silicone hydrogel contact lenses molded using these less polar thermoplastic polymers, and related methods are described. When the molds are used to cast mold silicone hydrogel contact lenses, the resulting polymerized lens bodies have ophthalmically acceptably wettable surfaces.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• G02C 7/02 - LensesLens systems

Abstract

Methods, devices, and systems for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses using direct injection molding are described. The present methods, devices, and systems include a mold block having a first mold insert and a second mold insert defining a lens-shaped cavity between them. A raised non-uniform region that projects into the lens-shaped cavity is incorporated in a peripheral zone of the molding surface of at least one of the mold inserts. When an ophthalmic lens is formed using the described mold block, at least one depression is produced in the lens. A gate placed at the non-uniform region allows the depression to hide any gate witness that may form when the mold is closed or separated.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms
• B29C 33/42 - Moulds or coresDetails thereof or accessories therefor characterised by the shape of the moulding surface, e.g. ribs or grooves
• B29C 45/00 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mouldApparatus therefor

Abstract

Methods and systems for producing packaged contact lenses are described. A stock product that includes a contact lens located in a contact lens packaging solution in a sealed contact lens package is provided. The stock product has one or more printing surfaces. The stock product is directed to a labeling station to produce a customer-tailored labeled product. The labeled product includes printed customer-specific indicia directly on the printing surface of the stock product. Manufacturing systems that include such labeling stations are also described. Utilizing the present methods and systems, contact lenses are labeled and supplied to different customers based on customer requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65B 61/26 - Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for marking or coding completed packages
• B65B 23/22 - Packaging glass ampoules, lamp bulbs, radio valves or tubes, or the like
• B65D 75/30 - Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding
• B65B 23/00 - Packaging fragile or shock-sensitive articles other than bottlesUnpacking eggs
• B65D 75/28 - Articles or materials wholly enclosed in composite wrappers, i.e. wrappers formed by associating or interconnecting two or more sheets or blanks

Abstract

Methods, devices, and systems for processing ophthalmic lenses, such as contact lenses, are described. The present devices and systems include a washing device, processing head or processing tip configured for use in processing an ophthalmic lens placed in a receptacle cavity to wash the ophthalmic lens. When the processing tip is placed in contact with the receptacle, the processing fluid in the well of the body of the processing tip is in fluid communication with the fluid in the cavity of receptacle. The volume capacity of the well is in addition to a volume capacity of the receptacle. The processing tip further has at least one port for fluid addition or removal. Processing methods using the present devices and systems are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65B 55/18 - Sterilising contents prior to, or during, packaging by liquids or gases
• B65B 7/28 - Closing semi-rigid or rigid containers or receptacles not deformed by, or not taking-up shape of, contents, e.g. boxes or cartons by applying separate preformed closures, e.g. lids, covers
• A61L 12/08 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
• A61L 101/32 - Organic compounds
• A61L 101/34 - Hydroxy compounds

Abstract

Methods for slowing progression of myopia or hyperopia of human patients include a step of providing contact lenses. The contact lenses have two or more refractive powers. A first refractive power provides clear visual acuity and a second refractive power provides a defocused retinal image to the human patient. The methods involve providing first and second sets of the contact lenses, the contact lenses of the second set have a different optical design than the contact lenses of the first set. With the present methods, an eye care practitioner is able to select one or more contact lenses from the second set of contact lenses based on one or more ocular parameters of the patient, one or more responses of the patient to the contact lens of the first set, or both, to provide an improved clinical benefit to the patient compared to the benefit provided by the first set of contact lenses.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02C 7/04 - Contact lenses for the eyes