System and method for increasing the depth of focus of the human eye
US6554424B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 29, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 29, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 29, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02C2202/22
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for increasing the depth of focus of the human eye is comprised of a lens body, an optic in the lens body configured to produce light interference, and a pinhole-like optical aperture substantially in the center of the optic. The optic may be configured to produce light scattering or composed of a light reflective material. Alternatively, the optic may increase the depth of focus via a combination of light interference, light scattering, light reflection and/or light absorption. The optic may also be configured as a series of concentric circles, a weave, a pattern of particles, or a pattern of curvatures. One method involves screening a patient for an ophthalmic lens using a pinhole screening device in the lens to increase the patient's depth of focus. Another method comprises surgically implanting a mask in the patient's eye to increase the depth of focus.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.