TW202237756A - Contact lens with improved cosmesis - Google Patents

Abstract

Eye enhancement contact lenses are disclosed having patterns configured to change the cosmetic appearance of the wearer’s iris and limbus, made using inks containing special effect pigments in sufficient amounts to render the patterns less visible when positioned over the sclera, because of placement or normal lens movement on eye, than the same pattern free of interference pigments, thereby providing a more natural appearance. The special effect pigments comprise muscovite mica, synthetic fluorphlogopite, synthetic aluminum oxides, borosilicates, calcium aluminum borosilicates, silicon dioxide platelets, metal oxide coated muscovite mica, metal oxide coated synthetic fluorphologopite, metal oxide coated synthetic aluminum oxides, metal oxide coated borosilicates, metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicates, metal oxide coated silicon dioxide platelets and combinations thereof. In some patterns, the special effect pigments are more concentrated in the periphery which is most likely portion of the pattern move over the sclera during wear.

Description

Contact Lenses for Improved Cosmetic Effects

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17/654,122 (filed March 9, 2022) and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/167,340 (filed March 29, 2021), which The patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The present invention relates to ophthalmic lenses, and more specifically, the present invention relates to cosmetic contact lenses that incorporate effect layers to enhance the appearance of the eye on which they are positioned, and include designs to achieve : Implicit and show depth within a given pattern, create variation in the iris area, change the color of the iris, magnify the iris, and create negative space to allow the natural iris to contribute to the effect of the overall design. The overall design is a composite of translucent layers of varying degrees of overlap. The cosmetic contact lens also includes a ring-shaped transparent layer to encapsulate the multiple effect layers to provide a safe, comfortable, and high-quality optical quality contact lens. Cosmetic contact lenses also incorporate pearlescent pigments in one or more regions to create sparkle, luster, and iridescent looks.

Contact lenses are lenses that are placed on the eye. Contact lenses are considered medical devices and may be worn to correct vision and/or for cosmetic or other therapeutic reasons. Contact lenses have been commercially used since the 1950s to improve vision. Early contact lenses were manufactured or machined from hard materials, which were relatively expensive and fragile. In addition, the materials from which these early contact lenses were fabricated did not allow sufficient oxygen transport through the contact lens to the conjunctiva and cornea, which had the potential to cause a number of adverse clinical effects. Although these contact lenses are still used, they are not suitable for all patients due to their poor initial comfort. Subsequent developments in this field resulted in hydrogel-based soft contact lenses, which are extremely popular and widely used today. Silicone hydrogel contact lenses available today combine the benefits of extremely high oxygen permeability silicone with the proven comfort and clinical performance of hydrogels. Basically, these silicone hydrogel-based contact lenses have higher oxygen permeability values and are generally more comfortable to wear than contact lenses made from earlier hard materials. Rigid gas permeable hard contact lenses, on the other hand, are made of silicone-containing polymers, but are harder than soft contact lenses and therefore retain their shape and are more durable.

Currently available contact lenses remain a cost-effective means of vision correction. These thin plastic lenses fit over the cornea of the eye to correct vision defects, including nearsightedness or myopia, hyperopia or hyperopia, astigmatism (ie, asphericity of the cornea), and presbyopia (ie, loss of accommodative ability of the lens). Contact lenses come in many forms and are made of various materials to serve different functions. Daily wear soft contact lenses are generally made of soft polymer materials that combine with water to provide oxygen permeability. Daily wear soft contact lenses can be either daily disposable or extended wear disposable. Daily disposable contact lenses are usually discarded after one day of wear, while extended wear disposable contact lenses can usually be worn for up to 30 days or more. Tinted soft contact lenses use different materials to provide different functions. For example, visibility tint contact lenses use a light tint to assist the wearer in locating a dropped contact lens; enhancement tint contact lenses have a clear or translucent tint intended to enhance wearing the natural color of the wearer's eye; color tint contact lenses contain an opaque tint intended to change the color of the wearer's eye; and light filtering tint contact lenses act to enhance certain Colors weaken other colors at the same time. Bifocal contact lenses (bifocal contact lenses) and multifocal contact lenses (multifocal contact lenses) are specially designed for presbyopia patients, and there are two types: soft and hard. Toric contact lenses are specially designed for patients with astigmatism, and there are two kinds of soft and hard. There are also combined lenses that combine the above different aspects, such as hybrid contact lenses.

Cosmetic contact lenses may comprise a pattern of one or more elements that completely or preferably partially overlie the wearer's iris. These lenses may also contain a limbal ring. A limbal ring is essentially a circular colored band that partially or completely covers the limbal region of the lens wearer at the sclera-cornea junction when the lens is centered on the eye. Inclusion of a limbal ring can make the iris appear larger, darker, and/or more defined than it should be. The combination of the limbal ring with the iris pattern gives a more natural look to the lens on the eye. In other words, an iris pattern allows the limbal ring to blend naturally with the wearer's eye, and the combination of an iris pattern and a limbal ring creates fusion, depth, contrast, and clarity.

Other cosmetic contact lenses focus on the sclera instead of the iris, or other cosmetic contact lenses focus on the sclera in addition to the iris. For example, a contact lens can include a tinted peripheral portion (ie, outside the iris area), which can be opaque, semi-opaque, and/or translucent. This bright portion can extend from the edge of the limbus to the edge of the contact lens, creating the impression of a brighter or whiter sclera. These contact lenses can also include a limbal ring (as described above), and these contact lenses can make the iris appear larger, darker, and/or more defined than it should be.

While the cosmetic contact lenses described above do enhance the appearance of the eye, there is still a need for the cosmetic lens area of the lens to include a design that achieves the following: implicit and exhibited depth within a given pattern, variations established in the iris area, Changing the color of the iris, magnifying the iris, and creating negative space allows the natural iris to contribute to the effect of the overall design.

Typically a clear coat is utilized to fully encapsulate the various designs/patterns; ie, one or more effect and/or pigment print layers within the contact lens. Currently, this clear coating covers the entire front curve surface of the contact lens. In order to maintain precise optical surfaces and pathways, it is desirable that the cosmetic contact lens area of the lens does not compromise optical quality, while maintaining the functionality associated with complete pigment encapsulation.

Furthermore, while the cosmetic contact lenses described above do enhance the appearance of the eye, there is a need for lenses that also include effect pigments that can be incorporated into different regions of the lens to create the look of sparkle, luster, and iridescence.

The improved multiple integration effect contact lens of the present invention overcomes the limitations associated with the prior art briefly outlined above.

According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to an eye enhancement contact lens comprising a curved polymeric lens having a cosmetic effect that visually alters the iris and limbus of an eye to a viewer. Appearance of at least one printed layer of a pattern, wherein the pattern contains a special effect pigment in sufficient concentration such that when the pattern is positioned over the sclera, it is less visible to a viewer than the same pattern without special effect pigment The pattern is not visible due to placement on the eye or normal lens movement and iris size, providing a more natural look.

According to another aspect, the invention relates to an eye enhancement contact lens. The eye enhancement lens comprises: a first zone corresponding to the scleral zone of an eye; a second zone corresponding to the peripheral zone of an eye; a third zone corresponding to an iris zone of an eye; and

Mica-based pearlescent pigments incorporated in the second region corresponding to the peripheral region of an eye and configured to create a peripheral region having a shiny, glossy, and iridescent appearance.

According to another aspect, the invention relates to an eye enhancement contact lens. The eye enhancement lens comprises: a first zone corresponding to the scleral zone of an eye; a second zone corresponding to the peripheral zone of an eye; a third zone corresponding to an iris zone of an eye; and

Mica-based pearlescent pigments incorporated into the first, second, and third and configured to create scleral, limbal, and iris regions with a shiny, glossy, and iridescent appearance.

According to yet another aspect, the invention relates to an eye enhancement contact lens. The eye enhancement lens comprises: an effect design corresponding to an iris area of an eye, the effect design including mica-based pearlescent pigments configured to create an iris area having a shiny, glossy, and iridescent appearance .

According to yet another aspect, the invention relates to an eye enhancement contact lens. The eye enhancement lens comprises: a first zone corresponding to the scleral zone of an eye; a second zone corresponding to the limbal zone of an eye; a third zone corresponding to an iris zone of an eye; and mica-based pearlescent pigments incorporated into at least one of the first zone, second zone, and third zone, the mica-based pearlescent pigments configured as an opacifying agent to simultaneously establish opacity, Shiny, glossy, and iridescent appearance.

Cosmetic contact lenses can be designed to change the appearance of the eye on which the contact lens is worn in any number of ways, including the color of the entire eye and/or different regions of the eye. Although not essential, cosmetic contact lenses can also be used to correct refractive errors. Cosmetic contact lenses may also have immediate medical applications. For example, cosmetic contact lenses can be used to restore the appearance of damaged eyes. Cosmetic contact lenses may include clear, translucent, opaque enhancements, or tints. Colorants may include organic/inorganic pigments, dyes, or special effect pigments. The printed area of a contact lens may include an iris area (iris pattern), a limbal area (limbal ring), a scleral area (scleral brightening), or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the pattern may be continuous, intermittent, or any combination thereof.

The cosmetic contact lens of the present invention utilizes multiple effect layers to achieve a unique visual appearance. Multi-layer designs can be utilized to enhance and/or accentuate the appearance of the eye on which the contact lenses are positioned, while maintaining a natural appearance. These exemplary designs each comprise three layers; namely, a unique limbal design graphic, a unique inner effect graphic, and a unique outer effect graphic. The layers can be formed using any number of design elements and design principles. For example, threads can be used to define shape and create a profile that mimics or simulates the thread structure, shape, and contours found in natural irises. Color and hue values with varying degrees of translucency and opacity can be used to create blending and contrast, while varying color and hue values can be used to imply depth by forming highlights and shadows. Space can be used to determine composition, for example, positive space can be used to define and imply effect, while negative space can be used to allow the natural iris to contribute to the effect of the overall design. Perspective in overlapping layers can be used to both imply and show depth within a given pattern. Textures can be used to create variations in the iris. As used in the two-dimensional art field, textures are created by using light and dark colors. You can also use light elements, dark elements, and overlapping elements to imply depth and form.

Cosmetic contact lenses of the present invention may comprise any of the lenses described above that incorporate pearlescent pigments (including, for example, special effect pigments) to add a sparkle, gloss, and iridescent appearance to the wearer's eyes. These pigments can be added to any area of the lens, including the areas overlying the iris and/or sclera. For example, if these pigments are utilized in the area overlying the sclera, incorporation or incorporation of pearlescent pigments will make the area of the sclera brighter and whiter, which has a wet reflective appearance and which also looks natural. Additionally, the resulting lenses are characterized by (1) improved cosmetic and perceptual customization of the eye and (2) better consumer satisfaction and performance by expanding targeting more Perceptual fit range for eyes with different sized irises and operational efficiencies resulting from reducing the need for discreet product SKUs as each product SKU can be adapted across a wider range of iris sizes.

The incorporation of pearlescent pigments does not have any significant effect on the production process of cosmetic contact lenses; thus, it is possible to achieve a natural and shiny appearance without significant changes.

The present invention can utilize a ring-shaped clear base coat to fully encapsulate the color enhancer and/or pigment while providing an opening in the optic zone for high quality visual performance. The cosmetic contact lenses of the present invention provide a cost-effective means of enhancing the visual appearance of the wearer's eyes while providing the optical quality and comfort of non-cosmetic contact lenses.

Contact lenses are lenses that are placed on the eye. Contact lenses are considered medical devices and may be worn to correct vision and/or for cosmetic or other therapeutic reasons. Contact lenses have been commercially used since the 1950s to improve vision. Early contact lenses were manufactured or machined from hard materials, which were relatively expensive and fragile. In addition, the materials from which these early contact lenses were fabricated did not allow sufficient oxygen transport through the contact lens to the conjunctiva and cornea, which had the potential to cause a number of adverse clinical effects. Although these contact lenses are still used, they are not suitable for all patients due to their poor initial comfort. Subsequent developments in this field resulted in hydrogel-based soft contact lenses, which are extremely popular and widely used today. Silicone hydrogel contact lenses available today combine the benefits of extremely high oxygen permeability silicone with the proven comfort and clinical performance of hydrogels. Basically, these silicone hydrogel-based contact lenses have higher oxygen permeability and are generally more comfortable to wear than contact lenses made from earlier hard materials. However, these new contact lenses are not entirely without limitations.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , a plan view of an exemplary non-cosmetic contact lens 100 is depicted. The contact lens 100 comprises: an optic zone 102; a peripheral zone 104 surrounding the optic zone 102; a back curve surface designed to contact an individual's eye when worn; and a front curve surface opposite the back curve surface . Optic zone 102 is the portion of contact lens 100 through which vision correction can be obtained. In other words, the optical zone 102 provides vision correction and is designed for specific needs, such as single vision myopia or hypermetropia correction, astigmatism vision correction, bifocal vision correction, multifocal vision correction, custom correction, or any other design that provides vision correction. Peripheral zone 104 surrounds optic zone 102 and provides mechanical stability of contact lens 100 on the eye. In other words, peripheral region 104 provides mechanical features that affect positioning or stabilization (including coaxiality and orientation) of contact lens 100 on the eye. Orientation is essential when the optic zone 102 includes non-rotationally symmetric features, such as astigmatism correction and/or higher order aberration correction. In some contact lens designs, an optional intermediate zone between the optic zone 102 and the peripheral zone 104 may be utilized. This optional intermediate zone ensures that the optical zone 102 blends smoothly with the peripheral zone 104 .

Contact lens 100 is depicted in Figure 1 as being circular, but may be any convenient shape for a contact lens, such as an oval or a truncated circle. In addition to being circular or non-circular, contact lens 100 can be planar or non-planar.

A cosmetic contact lens is designed to enhance or change the appearance of the eye on which the contact lens is worn. Although not essential, cosmetic contact lenses can also be used to correct refractive errors. In addition, cosmetic contact lenses may also have immediate medical applications, eg, restoring the appearance of damaged eyes. Suffering from aniridia, absence of iris, distorted pupils (dyscoria), damage to the iris, and/or damage to the arcus senilis, or damage to the arcus senilus corneae, brightening of the limbal region Individuals with abnormal or abnormal discoloration may utilize tinted contact lenses that will give the appearance of a full iris. Cosmetic contact lenses may include translucent/transparent pigments, pigments, opaque pigments, artificial iris patterns, limbal rings, scleral brightening pigments, and/or any combination thereof.

More specifically, cosmetic contact lenses may be utilized to brighten the sclera and/or have a pattern that includes a limbal ring that serves to enhance the clarity of the wearer's iris, resulting in a loss of clarity for the contact lens wearer. To the observer, the iris appears larger. In addition, cosmetic contact lenses may have additional pattern elements that completely or preferably partially overlie the wearer's iris. Cosmetic contact lenses can be used to enhance individual irises of dark eyes, but cosmetic contact lenses can also be used to enhance individual irises of light eyes.

Please refer to FIG. 2 , which shows a first exemplary cosmetic contact lens 200 . Although the contact lens 200 includes an optical zone and a peripheral zone in the sense mentioned above with respect to the contact lens 100 of FIG. 1 , different terms are used to describe the various regions of a cosmetic contact lens. . Cosmetic contact lens 200 includes a central region 202 sized to substantially correspond to the size and location of an individual's pupils. In general, the central region 202 has no coloring or design so as not to interfere with visual acuity. Central portion 204 surrounds central region 202 and is sized to substantially correspond to the size and location of an individual's iris. The central portion 204 may comprise one or more colors and/or a pattern formed by one or more colors to enhance the appearance of the wearer's iris. Disposed around the central portion 204 and extending to the peripheral edge of the contact lens 200 is a peripheral portion 206 . Peripheral portion 206 comprises an annular shape having an inner diameter measured from point 201 and an outer diameter measured from point 203 which may, but need not necessarily coincide with the outer edge of integral contact lens 200 . The peripheral portion 206 may be colored a bright color, such as white, off white, off white, light yellow, light blue, light pink, light green, or any combination thereof. This bright shade is set to gradually blend with the wearer's sclera.

Peripheral portion 206 is colored to enhance the appearance of the sclera. The coloring of the peripheral portion 206 can be opaque, translucent, intermediate between opaque and translucent, or semi-opaque. The exemplary embodiments enhance the appearance of the sclera by providing the sclera with a renewed, natural appearance. It should be understood that opaque as used herein means allowing an average light transmittance of 0 to about 50 percent, and preferably 7 to about 50 percent color in the range of 380 to 780 nm. It should be understood that translucent as used herein means allowing an average light transmission in the range of 380 to 780 nm from about 50 to about 85 percent, and preferably from about 65 to about 85 percent color.

FIG. 3 illustrates a second exemplary cosmetic contact lens 300 . Cosmetic contact lens 300 includes: a central region 302 ; a central portion 304 surrounding central region 302 ; a peripheral portion 306 surrounding central portion 304 ; and a limbal ring 308 . As referred to herein, a limbal ring is essentially a circular colored band that partially or completely overlies the limbal region of the lens wearer when the lens is on and centered on the eye. In some exemplary embodiments, a limbal ring may be larger to create a halo effect. In this exemplary embodiment, from the inner diameter measured at point 301 to the outer diameter measured at point 303, the coloring of peripheral portion 306 may gradually change from opaque to translucent or transparent. As in the exemplary embodiments described above, the central portion 304 may comprise one or more colors and/or a pattern formed by one or more colors to enhance the appearance of the wearer's iris. This combination provides the most natural iris and dark limbal ring contrast, while providing the added benefit of applying a brighter color in the peripheral portion 306 . The limbal ring 308 may have any suitable width or pattern that allows the limbal ring 308 to blend naturally with the iris, central portion color/pattern 304 , and brightly colored peripheral portion 306 . Limbal ring 308 may be translucent or opaque.

FIG. 4 depicts a third exemplary cosmetic contact lens 400 having bright coloring applied in a geometric pattern in a peripheral portion 406 . Cosmetic contact lens 400 includes: a central region 402 ; a central portion 404 surrounding central region 402 ; a peripheral portion 406 surrounding central portion 404 ; and a limbal ring 408 . The difference between the contact lenses of FIGS. 3 and 4 is the geometric pattern of the peripheral portion 406 . In this exemplary cosmetic contact lens 400, the geometric pattern takes the appearance of circles 410 removed from the lens surface (otherwise tinted white), with each circle 410 touching its adjacent circle at a tangent near the limbal ring 408 410 and split at the extreme outer diameter of the pattern to merge with the natural sclera. In a preferred embodiment, the scleral printing (corresponding to the area of peripheral portion 406) transitions from the opacity of the limbus edge to a matrix pattern to blend with the natural sclera. While this illustrative embodiment utilizes circle 410 as the geometric shape, it is important to note that any geometric shape may be utilized. It can also be regarded as a cross-shaped structure of a plurality of rows and columns formed by the circles 410 with bright colors. As shown, circle 412 may also extend into the pattern in central portion 404 .

Patterns comprising geometric shapes can be formed from regularly shaped structures as described above with respect to FIG. 4, or from a plurality of random small dots located in the central portion 504 and peripheral portion 506 of a cosmetic contact lens 500 as shown in FIG. Or shape 510 forms a pattern comprising geometric shapes. In this exemplary contact lens 500, the central zone 502 and limbal ring 508 have no pattern, eg, no spokes or fusions. Any convenient shape that conveys a sense of realism or enhances the sense of color may be utilized, especially where such geometric shapes promote a desired hue or shade. The dots utilized can comprise any size and shape. The small dots facilitate the blending of the boundaries of the different elements of the cosmetic contact lens.

According to other exemplary embodiments, a cosmetic contact lens may include a limbal ring and a plurality of tapered spokes. As mentioned above, a limbal ring is an annular colored band that partially or substantially completely covers the limbal region or the sclera-cornea junction of the lens wearer when the lens is centered on the eye . Preferably, the limbal ring substantially completely overlies the limbal region. The innermost boundary of the limbal ring or the edge closest to the geometric center of the lens may form a circle having a diameter of about 8 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 9 mm to about 11 mm, centered at the geometric center of the lens. The ring may have any suitable width, and preferably has a width of about 0.5 to about 2.5 mm, more preferably about 0.75 to about 1.25 mm.

The substantially triangular shaped structure resembling the spokes of a wheel extends inwardly from the innermost border of the limbal ring towards the geometric center of the lens. The aforementioned tapered spokes may, but preferably do not, extend beyond the entire iris portion of the lens, meaning the portion of the lens overlying the iris when the lens is centered on the eye. It should be said that preferably the spokes extend inwardly from the innermost edge of the limbal ring such that the innermost edge of the spoke pattern is located about 6 mm or more from the geometric center of the lens, more preferably about 7 mm or more . The spokes may be uniform or different in shape and size, and are preferably about 1 to about 2 mm in length.

In FIG. 6, a first exemplary embodiment of a limbal ring-tapered spoke pattern on a contact lens 600 is depicted. In this exemplary embodiment, limbal ring 602 is a black opaque band approximately 1 mm in width. A plurality of randomly arranged tapered spokes 606 begin at the innermost boundary 604 of the limbal ring 602 and extend inwardly towards the geometric center of the contact lens 600, the innermost boundary 612 of which forms a shape having 7 A circle of mm diameter. While all of the spokes 606 are substantially similarly configured, preferably no one of the spokes 606 is exactly the same as another spoke 606 . The spokes 606 are interspersed or bounded by spaces 608 without any elements in the spaces. The spaces 608 are also substantially similarly configured, but preferably none of the spaces 608 is configured exactly the same as any other space 608 or spokes 606 . Area 610 is an area free of any pattern elements which, as shown, will partially constitute the iris portion of the wearer's eye and the overall pupil portion of the wearer's eye, or where the lens is centered on the eye. At the same time, this area will partially constitute the portion of the lens that overlies the wearer's pupil. As shown, region 610 is clear, but it could be translucent or it could also be colored opaque. The innermost border 604 as shown is a uniform, regular shape, but could be a non-uniform, irregular border. Similarly, while tapered spoke boundary 612 forms a substantially uniform boundary, it may form a non-uniform boundary.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative tapered spoke pattern on a contact lens 700 . In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of randomly arranged tapered spokes 706 begin at the innermost boundary 702 of the limbal ring 704 and extend inward toward the geometric center of the contact lens 700 . In this exemplary embodiment, tapered spokes 706 include one or more wavy lines that taper as the wavy lines move toward the geometric center of contact lens 700 . As depicted, the innermost limbal ring border 702 is an uneven, irregular shape. Region 708 is a region devoid of pattern elements which will partially constitute the wearer's iris portion and the overall pupil portion of the wearer's eye, as described above.

FIG. 8 illustrates yet another tapered spoke pattern for a contact lens 800 . In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of spokes 806 and 808 begin at the innermost boundary 802 of the limbal ring 804 and extend inwardly to the geometric center of the contact lens 800, the spokes 806 being longer than the spokes 808 and the spokes 806, 808 Both are formed by wavy lines. As shown, the spokes 806 and 808 are spaced apart from each other by a substantially regular gap, but may also be irregularly spaced. Furthermore, each of the spokes 806 are substantially the same shape, although they may be of different shapes, as may be the case with the spokes 808 . Region 810 is an area devoid of pattern elements that will partially constitute the iris portion of the wearer's eye and the overall wearer's pupil, as described above.

FIG. 9 illustrates yet another exemplary tapered spoke pattern for a contact lens 900 that is a variation of the pattern depicted in FIG. 8 . In this exemplary embodiment, the spoke pattern has a plurality of spokes 902 and 904, wherein spoke 902 is longer than spoke 904, and both spokes 902, 904 are formed from wavy lines. As shown, spokes 902 and 904 are randomly grouped together to form cluster 906 . These clusters 906 extend from the innermost radius 908 of the limbal ring 910 .

10 illustrates an exemplary tapered spoke pattern on a contact lens 1000 having a limbal ring 1002 and a plurality of randomly spaced spokes 1004 extending inwardly therefrom. In this exemplary embodiment, spokes 1004 are bent at one or more locations.

In all of the patterns described with respect to Figures 6-10, the spokes may extend inwardly to the geometric center of the lens. Preferably, however, the innermost boundary or edge of the spokes relative to the geometric center of the lens is located at about 6.5 mm or more, preferably about 7 mm or more, from the geometric center of the lens.

In addition to the spokes and limbal ring elements, the pattern may include any number of additional components. Such components may include geometric structures, such as dots and lines, or imaginative structures, including striations, feather-like shapes, and the like, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11 , a contact lens 1100 may include a plurality of random dots 1102 overlapping the spokes 1104 and the spaces between the spokes 1104 . Alternatively, the plurality of dots may overlap only a portion of the area of the spokes and the spacing between the spokes, such as covering only the innermost portion of the spokes or the portion closest to the limbal ring 1106 or about one (1) of that area. To about ninety (90) percent (preferably about twenty-five (25) to seventy-five (75) percent). As yet another alternative, a random pattern of small dots may be such that as the pattern of small dots moves inwardly towards the geometric center of the lens, there are fewer of the small dots forming a small dot density gradient. The dots assist in the fusion of the boundary between the limbal ring 1106 and the spokes 1104 .

As yet another alternative, in FIG. 12 , a contact lens 1200 is shown having a plurality of random small dots 1202 overlapping spokes 1204 and spaces between the spokes. The dots 1202 overlap the overall spokes 1204 and their equal intervals. The spokes extend from the limbal ring 1206 . The dots used in the patterns of the present invention can be of any size, but are preferably about 0.060 to about 0.180 mm in diameter, more preferably about 0.0075 to about 0.0125 mm in diameter.

In any of the patterns of cosmetic contact lenses mentioned herein, the center is preferably clear to ensure that visual acuity is not affected. However, the central region may be an area of translucent/transparent or opaque color or any combination of opaque and translucent/transparent colors.

When used in contact lenses to enhance or alter the wearer's eye color, preferably the limbal ring element is a solid colored band covering the color of the limbal region of the lens wearer, more preferably the covering color is an opaque color. Again, an appropriately sized limbal ring can be used to create a halo effect. The remaining elements (spokes, dots, and other pattern elements) can be translucent or opaque depending on the desired cosmetic result on the eyes. For the purposes of this invention, "translucent" means a color that allows an average light transmittance (%T) in the range of 380 to 780 nm of from about 60 to about 99%, preferably from about 65 to about 85% T . By "opaque" is meant a color that allows an average light transmittance (%T) in the range of 380 to 780 nm of 0 to about 55, preferably 7 to about 50%T.

The colors selected for each of the rim ring and iris pattern element will be determined based on the natural color of the contact lens wearer's iris and the desired enhancement or color change. Thus, an element can be any color, including any of a variety of shades and shades of blue, green, gray, brown, amber, red, or combinations thereof. Preferred colors for the limbal ring include any of a variety of shades and shades of black, brown, gray, blue, and dark green.

The colors of the limbal rings, spokes, and other pattern elements can also be substantially the same or complementary to each other. For example, in FIG. 13, a contact lens 1300 is shown that includes a pattern in which a limbal ring 1302 and spokes 1304 are the same color. The color of the spokes 1306 is different but complementary to the color of the limbal ring 1302 and spokes 1304 . The color of the pupil portion 1308 is yet another color complementary to the color of the limbal ring and spokes. Preferably, the pupil portion is clear, meaning colorless.

、及乙烯碸基染料。一個例示性實施例係含有10百分比至20百分比TiO ₂及80百分比至90百分比清透黏結聚合物之著色劑，以提供適當的半透明。 The tinted bright element including the perimeter portion can be pure white, off-white, off-white, light yellow, light blue, light pink, light green, or any combination thereof. Preferably, it is proportioned so as not to contrast abruptly with the visible portion of the sclera not covered by the lens. These colors are preferably obtained by using _TiO2 in higher amounts, resulting in greater opacity and contrast. Added pigments include small amounts of iron oxide black, iron oxide brown, iron oxide yellow, iron oxide red, titanium dioxide, and the like, and combinations thereof, to adjust for whiter colored elements. In addition to these pigments, soluble and insoluble dyes can be used, including dichlorotri

, and vinyl-based dyes. An exemplary embodiment is a colorant containing 10% to 20% _Ti02 and 80% to 90% clear binding polymer to provide proper translucency.

、及乙烯碸基染料。可用的染料和顏料為市售可得。 In general, colored elements can be made from any organic or inorganic pigment or combination of such pigments suitable for use in contact lenses. Opacity can be controlled by varying the concentration of pigment and titanium dioxide used, with higher amounts producing greater opacity. Exemplary organic pigments include phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, carbazole violet, vat orange #1, and the like, and combinations thereof. Useful inorganic pigments include iron oxide black, iron oxide brown, iron oxide yellow, iron oxide red, titanium dioxide, and the like, and combinations thereof. In addition to these pigments, soluble and insoluble dyes can be used, including dichlorotri

, and vinyl-based dyes. Useful dyes and pigments are commercially available.

According to the present invention, contact lenses comprising a multi-layer design can be utilized to enhance the appearance of the eye on which they are positioned, while maintaining a natural appearance. The exemplary designs each comprise three layers; namely, a unique limbal design graphic, a unique inner effect graphic, and a unique outer effect graphic. The order and colors of printing the various layers can affect the final design, as described in more detail below. Additionally, the color and design of each of the three layers can vary to create a unique look on the eye.

The layers can be formed using any number of design elements and design principles. For example, threads can be used to define shape and create a profile that mimics or simulates the thread structure, shape, and contours found in natural irises. Color and hue values with varying degrees of translucency and opacity can be used to create blending and contrast, while varying color and hue values can be used to imply depth by forming highlights and shadows. Space can be used to determine composition, for example, positive space can be used to define and imply effect, while negative space can be used to allow the natural iris to contribute to the effect of the overall design. Perspective in overlapping layers can be used to both imply and show depth within a given pattern. Variations in the iris can be created using texture created by contrasting colors and shapes. As used in the two-dimensional art field, textures are created by using light and dark colors. You can also use light and dark elements to imply depth and form.

As noted above, the present invention utilizes three distinct layers to provide more depth and variation in the overall pattern. The limbal design is that portion of the overall pattern that encircles the outer diameter of the iris and is closest to the sclera and is intended to accentuate, enhance and/or define the limbal region of the eye; however, the limbal design also includes elements that extend into the iris . The inner effect graphic layer is the portion intended to enhance the overall pattern of the iris; however, the outer effect graphic layer may include a portion that also contributes to accentuating, enhancing and/or defining the limbal region of the eye. The outer effect graphic layer is the portion intended to enhance the overall pattern of the iris; however, the outer effect graphic layer may include a portion that also contributes to accentuating, enhancing and/or defining the limbal region of the eye. The multiple layer approach of the present invention can be used to create varying degrees of transparency and/or opacity using overlapping and non-overlapping translucent layers.

As illustrated above, various design elements can be utilized to achieve various effects. As with the limbal ring/tapered spoke pattern described above, similar features may be used in designing multilayer designs according to the present invention. For example, spokes, fingers, hair-like structures, and similar structures and/or points can be used to fuse a solid limbal zone into the iris. Additionally, various other geometries, including those found in natural irises, can be incorporated into the various layers.

Please refer to FIG. 14A , which shows a first exemplary embodiment of a limbal design pattern 1400 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the limbal design graphic 1400 includes a translucent annular band 1402 with a width of approximately 0.89 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short hair-like structures 1406 are connected to the innermost boundary 1404 of the annular zone 1402 and extend from the innermost boundary of the annular zone towards the geometric center of the limbal design 1400 . Some of the hair-like structures have branches 1408 that are not on the main structure 1406. Additional hair structures 1410 not connected to translucent strip 1402 are interposed between other hair structures 1406 . These hair-like structures are designed to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscular structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Translucent annular band 1402 is designed to overlay and enhance the limbal region of the wearer, while protrusions 1406, 1408, and 1410 (which are also translucent) are designed to enhance the wearer's iris and make the translucent annular band 1402 fuses with the wearer's iris. The creation of spaces between hair-like structures depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the pigment shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1412 of the design graphic 1400 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note that in this central portion 1412 colorants are available. Additionally, the spaces between elements of the design can be clear or tinted.

In this exemplary embodiment, the entire limbus design 1400 is a translucent medium brown color formed from compositions comprising in proportions: red iron oxide, titanium dioxide, trans-oxide yellow, yellow oxide Iron, brown iron oxide, and black iron oxide pigments to create colors in the brown to black range. It is important to note that while in this exemplary embodiment the limbal design 1400 is translucent, other designs may include opaque elements or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The limbal design 1400 is printed using techniques described in detail below and the limbal design is printed first. In other words, this limbal design graphic is the first graphic layer of the overall design to be incorporated into the lens. The printing order affects the overall design, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 14B shows a first exemplary embodiment of an internal effect design graphic 1420 according to the present invention. Inner effect graphic 1420 comprises: an annular band comprising an undulating ring structure 1422 whose geometry has various shape elements of a plurality of rounded grooves 1424 and angular peaks 1426 with negative spaces 1428 therein ( Negative space exists as a closed feature within the printed element and as an open shape outside the printed element), i.e., no pattern; and multiple elongations of varying length and width inserted in the groove 1424, The substantially elliptical structure 1430 . The substantially elliptical structure 1430 may or may not have tapered ends. The overall effect can resemble a sinusoidal pattern or simulate a natural iris. More specifically, the overall effect is designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Inner effect design graphic 1420 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's iris and at least partially overlap translucent annular band 1402 of limbal design graphic 1400 . In addition, the inner effect design graphic 1420 overlies the protrusions 1406, 1408, and 1410 of the limbal design 1400 in a manner such that there are overlapping translucent sections and a negative with filler between the protrusions 1406, 1408, and 1410. some or part of the space. Sections of overlapping translucent pigments create additional hues within the pattern that can be darker or lighter, depending on the colors utilized in the individual underlying structures and varying degrees of translucency. The creation of spaces between elements of the pattern is dependent on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1432 of the design graphic 1420 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; pigments are available in this area. Additionally, negative space can be clear or tinted.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall internal effect design graphic 1420 is a translucent orange color composed of the following compositions in proportion: red iron oxide, trans oxide yellow, brown iron oxide, and trans oxide Red pigment to build up the colors in the orange family. Colors in the orange family include yellow and gold. These colors, or colors in this series, are intended to accentuate the underlying natural iris color in individuals with eyes of darker shades (eg, brown, dark brown, dark brown, and the like). Individuals with eyes with lighter shades (eg, blue, green, beige, gray, and the like) will utilize different colors. However, it is important to note that while inner effect graphic 1420 includes translucent elements, in other embodiments it may include opaque elements and/or a combination of translucent and opaque elements. This inner effect graphic 1420 is printed using techniques described in detail below and is printed in a second order after the limbal graphic 1400 . In other words, the inner effect graphic 1420 is printed after the limbal graphic 1400 and printed on the limbal design graphic. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. This layer (inner effect design graphic 1420 ) will appear behind graphic 1400 from the viewer's point of view. The outer diameter of the inner effect design figure 1420 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design figure 1400, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

FIG. 14C illustrates a first exemplary embodiment of an external effect design graphic 1440 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the outer effect design graphic 1440 includes a translucent annular band 1442 with a width of approximately 1.44 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short substantially triangular shaped structures 1446 are connected to and extend from the innermost boundary 1444 of the translucent annular band 1442 . Some of the substantially triangular shaped structures touch each other at the vertices to form an enclosed space 1448 . The outer effect design graphic 1440 also includes a plurality of lines 1450 that are not connected to the translucent annular band 1442 and that are interposed between the substantially triangular shaped structures and that are oriented in the same direction; i.e., toward the outside The geometric center of effect design figure 1440 . These structures are designed to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the translucent annular band 1442 contains comb-like structures 1452 that change the appearance of the annular band 1442 to a less distinct structure. Comb structure 1452 is intended to soften and blend the overlapping lines created by overlapping the three layers of translucent colors; The outer effect design 1440 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1402 of the limbal design 1400 and the overall inner effect design 1420 and the protruding structures 1406, 1408 and 1410 of the limbal design 1400. Outer layer design graphics 1440 fill more negative space, and overlapping sections or positive space create areas of additional hue, areas of varying degrees of opacity, and distinct designs that are separate and distinct from any single layer or graphic. In addition, the negative space left between overlapping regions creates shape and pattern, which works by combining with the natural iris to aid blending and cosmetic effects. The creation of negative space between elements of the design depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1454 may be clear since this portion of the lens corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; colorants are available in this segment. Additionally, the negative space between elements can be colored. The comb structure 1452 changes the outer diameter of the annular zone 1402 of the limbal design by creating a shape that splits the hard lines of the transparent limbal design 1400 .

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall exterior effect design graphic 1440 is translucent black formed from a composition including brown iron oxide and black iron oxide pigments. In this exemplary embodiment, where the outer effect design graphic 1440 and the limbus design graphic 1400 overlap, they create a darker, more clear/opaque area, while non-overlapping portions of the design are left with a more translucent color, which provides self- Opaque to clear translucent blend. This technology allows for fusion with the natural iris. In this illustrative embodiment, exterior design graphic 1440 includes a translucent design; however, in other embodiments, the design may include opaque elements and/or a combination of translucent and opaque elements. The outer effect graphics 1440 are printed using techniques described in detail below, and the outer effect graphics are printed in a third order after the inner effect graphics 1420, and the outer effect graphics are printed on the inner effect graphics. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. This layer will appear behind the inner effect design graphic 1420 from the viewer's point of view. The outer diameter of the outer effect graphic 1440 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1400, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

Figure 14D depicts a first exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic contact lens 1460 that includes all three layers or designs 1400, 1420, and 1440 printed in the order described above. Although the printing sequence is described from a manufacturing perspective, when the viewer looks at the contact lens worn on the eye, the visual effect is the visual effect of seeing the layers or design graphics in the reverse order of the described printing order. As shown, the overlapping layers include different colors, different degrees of translucency, different hues, different degrees of lightness, different degrees of darkness, and patterns that form a unique structure. Variations in either the printing sequence or the colors will result in different designs, as detailed later. Additionally, changing the level of translucency can affect the overall design with regards to hue, blending, texture, and contrast.

The overall design created by the three layers comprises a ring structure with an inner diameter of about 6.5 mm and an outer diameter ranging from about 12.675 mm to about 12.8 mm. By design, the ring structure is similar to the iris structure of the eye. The open or negative space in the center of the lens corresponds to the pupillary or optical zone of the eye and is preferably clear so as not to interfere with vision. However, as mentioned above, this area can be colored and can be any negative space.

Please refer to FIG. 15A , which shows a second exemplary embodiment of a limbal design pattern 1500 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the limbal design 1500 includes a translucent annular band 1502 with a width of approximately 0.89 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short hair-like structures 1506 are connected to the innermost boundary 1504 of the translucent annular zone 1502 and extend from the innermost boundary of the translucent annular zone towards the geometric center of the limbal design 1500 . Some of the hair-like structures have branches 1508 that are not on the main structure 1506. Additional hair-like structures 1510 not connected to opaque band 1502 are interposed between other hair-like structures 1506 . These hair-like structures are engineered to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary musculature, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Translucent annular band 1502 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's limbal region, while protrusions 1506, 1508, and 1510 are designed to enhance and fuse annular band 1502 with the wearer's iris. Protruding structures 1506, 1508 and 1510 are also translucent. The creation of spaces between hair-like structures depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the pigment shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1512 of the design graphic 1500 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; the colorant is available in this central portion 1512. Additionally, the spaces between elements of the design can be clear or tinted.

In this exemplary embodiment, the entire limbal design 1500 is a translucent black formed from black iron oxide pigment. It is important to note that while in this exemplary embodiment the limbal design 1500 is translucent, other designs may include opaque elements or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The limbal design 1500 is printed using techniques described in detail below, and the limbal design is printed first. In other words, this limbal design graphic is the first graphic layer of the overall design to be incorporated into the lens. The printing order affects the overall design, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 15B shows a second exemplary embodiment of an internal effect design graphic 1520 according to the present invention. Inner effect graphic 1520 comprises: an annular band comprising an undulating ring structure 1522 whose geometry has various shape elements of a plurality of rounded grooves 1524 and angular peaks 1526 with negative spaces 1528 therein ( Negative space exists as a closed feature within the printed element and as an open shape outside the printed element), i.e., no pattern; and a plurality of elongations of varying length and width inserted in the groove 1524, Substantially elliptical structure 1530 . The substantially elliptical structure 1530 may or may not have tapered ends. The overall effect can resemble a radial pattern or simulate a natural iris. More specifically, the overall effect is designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Inner effect design graphic 1520 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's iris and at least partially overlap translucent annular band 1502 of limbal design graphic 1500 . In addition, the inner effect design graphic 1520 overlies the protrusions 1506, 1508, and 1510 of the limbal design 1500 in a manner such that there are overlapping translucent sections and a negative with filler between the protrusions 1506, 1508, and 1510. some or part of the space. Sections of overlapping translucent pigment create additional hues within the pattern that can be darker or lighter depending on the colors utilized in the individual underlying structures and varying degrees of translucency. The creation of spaces between elements of the pattern is dependent on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1532 of the design graphic 1520 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; pigments are available in this area. Additionally, the negative space between elements of the design can be clear or tinted.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall internal effect design graphic 1520 is a translucent medium brown color composed of the following components in proportion: red iron oxide, titanium dioxide, trans oxide yellow, yellow iron oxide, brown iron oxide and black iron oxide pigments to create colors in the gold to brown range. The colors utilized are intended to accentuate or otherwise enhance the underlying natural iris color. Use different colors for different colored eyes. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the inner effect design graphic 1520 may include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque elements and translucent elements. Inner effect design graphic 1520 is printed using techniques described in detail below and is printed in a second order after limbal graphic 1500 . In other words, the inner effect graphic 1520 is printed after the limbal graphic 1500 and printed on the limbal design graphic. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. From the viewer's point of view, this graphic layer 1520 will appear behind the limbal design graphic 1500 . The outer diameter of the inner effect design graphic 1520 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1500, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

FIG. 15C shows a second exemplary embodiment of an external effect design graphic 1540 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the outer effect design graphic 1540 includes a translucent annular band 1542 with a width of approximately 1.44 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short substantially triangular shaped structures 1546 are connected to and extend from the innermost boundary 1544 of the translucent annular band 1542 . Some of the substantially triangular shaped structures touch each other at the vertices to form an enclosed space 1548 . The outer layer design graphic 1540 also includes a plurality of lines 1550 that are not connected to the opaque annular band 1542 and that are interposed between the substantially triangular shaped structures and that are oriented in the same direction; i.e., toward the outer effect design graphic The geometric center of 1540. These structures are designed to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the translucent annular band 1542 includes a comb structure 1552 that changes the appearance of the annular band 1542 to a less distinct structure. Comb structure 1552 is intended to soften and blend the overlapping lines created by overlapping the three layers of translucent colors; The outer effect design 1540 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1502 of the limbal design 1500 and the overall inner effect design 1520 and the protruding structures 1506, 1508 and 1510 of the limbal design 1500. Outer design graphics 1540 fill more negative space, and overlapping sections or positive space create areas of additional hue, areas of varying degrees of opacity, and distinct designs that are separate and distinct from any single layer or graphic. In addition, the negative space left between overlapping regions creates shape and pattern, which works by combining with the natural iris to aid blending and cosmetic effects. The creation of negative space between elements of the design depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1554 may be clear since this portion of the lens corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; colorants are available in this segment. In addition, the negative space between elements can also be clear or tinted. The comb structure 1552 alters the appearance of the limbus design by softening the appearance of the outer diameter of the annular band 1502.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall exterior effect design graphic 1540 is a translucent gray color formed from a composition comprising titanium dioxide and black iron oxide pigments. In this exemplary embodiment, where the outer effect design graphic 1540 and the limbus design graphic 1500 overlap, they create a darker, more clear/opaque area, while non-overlapping portions of the design are left with a more translucent color, which provides self- Opaque to clear translucent blend. This technology allows for fusion with the natural iris. Overlook design graphics 1540 include translucent designs; however, other designs may incorporate opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The outer effect graphics 1540 are printed using techniques described in detail below, and the outer effect graphics are printed in a third order after the inner effect graphics 1520, and the outer effect graphics are printed on the inner effect graphics. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. From the viewer's point of view, this layer will appear behind the inner effect design graphic 1520. The outer diameter of the outer effect graphic 1554 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1500, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

Figure 15D depicts a second exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic contact lens 1560 that includes all three layers or designs 1500, 1520, and 1540 printed in the order described above. Although the printing sequence is described from a manufacturing perspective, when the viewer looks at the contact lens worn on the eye, the visual effect is the visual effect of seeing the layers or design graphics in the reverse order of the described printing order. As shown, the overlapping layers include different colors, different hues, different degrees of lightness, different degrees of darkness, and patterns that form a unique structure. Variations in either print order or color will result in different designs. Furthermore, any of these changes will affect the degree of translucency, which will also affect the overall design.

The overall design established by the three layers comprises a ring structure with an inner diameter of about 6.0 mm and an outer diameter ranging from about 12.50 mm to about 12.775 mm. By design, the ring structure is similar to the iris structure of the eye. The open or negative space in the center of the lens corresponds to the pupillary or optical zone of the eye and is preferably clear so as not to interfere with vision. However, as described above, this area, as well as any negative space, can be colored.

Please refer to FIG. 16A , which shows a third exemplary embodiment of a limbal design pattern 1600 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the limbal design graphic 1600 includes a translucent annular band 1602 with a width of approximately 0.89 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short hair-like structures 1606 are connected to the innermost boundary 1604 of the translucent annular zone 1602 and extend from the innermost boundary of the translucent annular zone towards the geometric center of the limbal design 1600 . Some of the hair-like structures have branches 1608 that are not on the main structure 1606. Additional branch-like structures 1610 create hook structures intended to mimic the edge of the pupillary muscle. As previously mentioned, all of these structures are designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Translucent annular band 1602 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's limbal region, while protrusions 1606, 1608, and 1610 are designed to enhance and fuse translucent annular band 1602 with the wearer's iris. The hair-like structure is also translucent. The creation of spaces between hair-like structures depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the pigment shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1612 of the design graphic 1600 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note that in this central portion 1612 colorants are available. Additionally, the spaces between elements of the design can be clear or tinted.

In this exemplary embodiment, the entire limbus design 1600 is a translucent dark brown formed from a composition comprising brown iron oxide, and black iron oxide pigments in proportions to create a range of colors from brown to black. Limbal design graphic 1600 includes translucent elements; however, in other exemplary embodiments, limbal design graphic may include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The limbal design 1600 is printed using techniques described in detail below, and the limbal design is printed first. In other words, this limbal design graphic is the first graphic design of the overall design to be incorporated into the lens. The printing order affects the overall design, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 16B shows a third exemplary embodiment of an external effect design graphic 1620 according to the present invention. However, it is important to note that in this exemplary embodiment, the printing order of the inner effect graphics and the outer effect graphics is changed. In the exemplary embodiments described above, the inner effect design is between the limbus design and the outer effect design. In this exemplary embodiment, the outer effect design graphic 1620 includes a semi-transparent annular band 1622 with a width of approximately 1.44 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short substantially triangular shaped structures 1626 are connected to and extend from the innermost boundary 1624 of the translucent annular band 1622 . Some of the substantially triangular-shaped structures touch each other at vertices to form an enclosed space 1628 . The outer effect design graphic 1620 also includes a plurality of lines 1630 that are not connected to the translucent annular band 1622 and that are interposed between the substantially triangular shaped structures and that are oriented in the same direction; i.e., toward the outside The geometric center of effect design figure 1620 . Some of the substantially triangular shaped structures or protrusions 1626 have branches 1632 and some of the lines 1630 have branches 1634 . All of these structures are engineered to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the annular band 1622 contains comb structures 1636 which change the appearance of the annular band 1622 to a less defined structure. Comb structure 1636 is intended to soften and blend the overlapping lines created by the overlapping translucent colors of the two layers. All elements of exterior design graphic 1620 are translucent in appearance; however, in other embodiments, elements may be opaque and/or a combination of translucent and opaque. The outer effect design graphic 1620 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1602 of the limbal design graphic 1600 . In addition, the external effect design graphic 1620 overlies the protrusions 1606, 1608, and 1610 of the limbal design graphic 1600 in such a way that it has overlapping segments and has filler in the negative space between the protrusions 1606, 1608, and 1610. some or part of it. Outer design graphics 1620 fill in more negative space, and overlapping sections or positive space create areas of additional hue, areas of varying degrees of opacity, and distinct designs that are separate and distinct from any single layer. Furthermore, the negative space left between the overlapping regions creates shape and pattern, which works by combining with the natural iris to aid blending and cosmetic effects. The creation of negative space between elements of the design depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1638 can be clear because this position of the lens corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; pigments are available in this area. In addition, colorants can also be used in negative space. The comb structure 1636 alters the appearance of the outer diameter of the annular band 1602 of the limbal design 1600 by softening it.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall exterior effect design graphic 1620 is a translucent brown color formed from a composition comprising: red iron oxide, titanium dioxide, trans oxide yellow, phthalocyanine green, yellow oxide Iron, brown iron oxide and black iron oxide pigments. In this exemplary embodiment where the outer effect design graphic 1620 and the limbal design graphic 1600 overlap, the outer effect design graphic and the limbal design graphic create a darker, clearer/opaque region while the non-overlapping portion of the design Leaves a more translucent color that provides a translucent blend from opaque to sheer. This technology allows for fusion with the natural iris. In this exemplary embodiment, exterior design graphic 1620 includes a translucent design; however, in other exemplary embodiments, the design may include opaque elements and/or a combination of translucent and opaque elements. The outer effect design graphic 1620 is printed using techniques described in detail below, and printed in a second order after the limbal effect graphic layer 1600, and the outer effect design graphic is printed on the limbal effect graphic layer. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. This layer or graphic will appear behind the limbal design graphic 1600 from the observer's point of view. The outer diameter of the outer effect graphic 1620 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1600, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

FIG. 16C shows a third exemplary embodiment of an internal effect design graphic 1640 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, inner effect design graphic 1640 includes a translucent annular band 1642 with a width of approximately 2.08 mm. As can be readily seen from this illustration, in this embodiment, the annular band 1642 is much wider than the other annular bands. A plurality of substantially triangular shaped structures or protrusions 1646 extending inwardly toward the geometric center of inner effect design 1640 are connected to and extend from innermost boundary 1644 of annular band 1642 . These projections are designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the annular band 1642 includes a non-uniform surface 1648 to soften/blend the hard line overlapping areas, which changes the appearance of the annular band 1642 to a less defined structure. Compared to the comb structure 1636 of the external effect design graphic 1620, the non-uniform surface is less pronounced. The inner effect design graphic 1640 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1602 of the limbus design graphic 1600 and the translucent annular band 1622 of the outer effect design graphic 1620, respectively. Again, substantially triangular shaped structures 1646 overlap and fill the spaces between protrusions 1606 , 1608 and 1610 of limbal design 1600 and elements 1626 , 1628 and 1630 of outer layer design 1620 . Sections of overlapping translucent pigment create additional hues within the pattern that can be darker or lighter depending on the colors utilized in the individual underlying structures and varying degrees of translucency. The creation of spaces between elements of the pattern is dependent on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1650 of the inner effect graphic 1640 may be clear since this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note that colorant is available in the center portion 1650 as well as in the negative space.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall internal effect design graphic 1640 is a translucent yellow color composed of the following compositions in proportion: trans-oxide yellow, yellow iron oxide, brown iron oxide, and trans-oxide red Pigment to build up the colors in the yellow family. As mentioned above, yellow is part of the orange series, which also includes gold. These colors are intended to accentuate the underlying natural iris color in individuals with brown or dark eyes. For lighter eye colors a different color will be utilized. Inner effect design graphics 1640 are printed using techniques described in detail below and are printed in a third order after outer effect graphics 1620 . In other words, the inner effect graphic 1640 is printed after the outer design graphic 1620, and the inner effect graphic is printed on the outer design graphic. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. From the observer's point of view, this layer will appear behind other layers. Inner effect design graphic 1640 includes translucent elements, but in alternative exemplary embodiments, may include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The outer diameter of the inner effect design graphic 1640 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1600, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

Figure 16D depicts a third exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic contact lens 1660 that includes all three layers or designs 1600, 1620, and 1640 printed in the order described above. It is important to note, however, that the printing sequence differs from the other two exemplary embodiments described above because the inner and outer effect layers are interchanged. Additionally, all three designs have annular bands that create a unique limbal ring design pattern. Although the printing sequence is described from a manufacturing perspective, when the viewer looks at the contact lens worn on the eye, the visual effect is that of seeing the layers or design graphics in the reverse order to that used in printing. As shown, the overlapping layers include different colors, different hues, different degrees of lightness, different degrees of darkness, and patterns that form a unique structure. A change in either the print order or the color will result in a different design. In addition, changes in translucency can also be achieved.

The overall design created by the three layers comprises a ring structure with an inner diameter of about 6.7 mm and an outer diameter ranging from about 12.650 mm to about 12.725 mm. By design, this ring structure is similar to the iris structure of the eye. The open or negative space in the center of the lens corresponds to the pupillary or optic zone of the eye and is preferably clear so as not to interfere with vision. However, as described above, this area can be the negative space between elements and so can be stained.

Please refer to FIG. 17A , which shows a fourth exemplary embodiment of a limbal design pattern 1700 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, limbal design graphic 1700 includes a translucent annular band 1702 with a width of approximately 0.85 mm. A plurality of geometric structures 1706 resembling the crypts in the natural iris are connected to the innermost boundary 1704 of the translucent annular zone 1702 and extend from the innermost boundary of the translucent annular zone towards the geometric center of the limbal design 1700 . Additional geometric structure 1708 also extends towards the geometric center of limbal design 1700 but is not attached to translucent annular zone 1702 . The crypts, a physiological feature found on the natural iris, are a series of openings positioned on either side of the collarette. The crypts on the base of the iris are additional openings that can be observed near the outermost part of the ciliary portion of the iris. As noted above, all elements in the design pattern are designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Translucent annular band 1702 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's limbal region, while protrusions 1706 and 1708 are designed to enhance and fuse annular band 1702 with the wearer's iris. The creation of space between the geometric structures depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1710 of the design graphic 1700 may be clear because this portion of the region corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; the colorant is available in this central portion 1710 . In addition, colorants can be utilized in the spaces between elements.

In this exemplary embodiment, the entire limbal design 1700 is a translucent dark brown formed from a composition comprising brown iron oxide, and black iron oxide pigments in proportions to create a range of colors from brown to black. Although the limbal design is translucent, in other exemplary embodiments, the limbal design may include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The limbal design 1700 is printed using techniques described in detail below, and the limbal design is printed first. In other words, this limbal design graphic is the first graphic design of the overall design to be incorporated into the lens. The printing order affects the overall design, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 17B shows a fourth exemplary embodiment of an external effect design graphic 1720 according to the present invention. However, it is important to note that, relative to the first two exemplary embodiments, in this exemplary embodiment, the printing order of the inner effect graphics and the outer effect graphics is changed. In this exemplary embodiment, the outer effect design graphic 1720 includes a translucent annular band 1722 with a width of approximately 0.89 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short substantially triangular shaped structures 1726 are connected to and extend from the innermost boundary 1724 of the translucent annular band 1722 . Some of the substantially triangular shaped structures touch each other at the vertices to form an enclosed space 1728 . The outer effect design graphic 1720 also includes a plurality of lines 1730 that are not connected to the translucent annular band 1722 and that are interposed between the substantially triangular shaped structures and that are oriented in the same direction; i.e., toward the outside The geometric center of effect design figure 1720 . Some of the substantially triangular shaped structures or protrusions 1726 have branches 1732 and some of the lines 1730 have branches 1734 . All of these structures are engineered to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the annular band 1722 includes comb structures 1736 that change the appearance of the transparent annular band 1722 to a less distinct structure. Comb structure 1736 is intended to soften and blend overlapping lines created by overlapping translucent colors of other layers. The outer effect design graphic 1720 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1702 of the limbal design graphic 1700 . In addition, external effect design graphic 1720 overlies protruding structures 1706 and 1708 of limbal design graphic 1700 in such a way as to have overlapping sections and to have filler in some or portions of the negative space between protruding structures 1706 and 1708 . Outer design graphics 1720 fill in more negative space, and overlapping sections or positive space create areas of additional hue, areas of varying degrees of opacity, and distinct designs that are separate and distinct from any single layer. Furthermore, the negative space left between the overlapping regions creates shape and pattern, which works by combining with the natural iris to aid blending and cosmetic effects. The creation of negative space between elements of the design depends on the shape of overlapping and underlying elements; including paint shapes and features and exposed irises. Central portion 1738 may be clear since this portion of the lens corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; pigments are available. In addition, colorants can be utilized in the negative space of the design. The comb structure 1736 alters the appearance of the outer diameter of the annular band 1702 of the limbal design 1700 by softening it.

In this exemplary embodiment, the entire external effect design graphic 1720 is a translucent brown color formed by proportioning the following components: red iron oxide, titanium dioxide, trans oxide yellow, yellow iron oxide, brown iron oxide and black Iron oxide pigments to build up colors in the brown to black range. In this exemplary embodiment where the outer effect design graphic 1720 and the limbal design graphic 1700 overlap, the outer effect design graphic and the limbal design graphic create a darker, clearer/opaque region while the non-overlapping portion of the design With a more translucent color, it provides a translucent blend from opaque to clear. This technology allows for fusion with the natural iris. The exterior design graphic 1720 includes translucent elements, but in other embodiments, opaque elements and combinations of translucent and opaque elements may be included. The outer effect graphic 1720 is printed using techniques described in detail below and printed in a second order after the limbal effect graphic layer 1700 and printed on the limbal effect graphic layer. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. From the viewer's point of view, this layer or pattern will be behind the limbal layer 1700 . The outer diameter of the outer effect graphic 1720 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1700, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

FIG. 17C shows a fourth exemplary embodiment of an internal effect design graphic 1740 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, inner effect design graphic 1740 includes a translucent annular band 1742 with a width of approximately 2.03 mm. As can be readily seen from this illustration, annular band 1742 is much wider than the other annular bands in this exemplary embodiment. A plurality of substantially triangular-shaped structures or protrusions 1746 extending inwardly towards the geometric center of the inner effect design graphic 1740 are connected to the innermost boundary 1744 of the translucent annular band 1742 and extend from the innermost border 1744 of the translucent annular band. Internal boundaries are extended. These projections are designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the annular band 1742 includes a non-uniform surface 1748 that changes the appearance of the translucent annular band 1742 to a less defined structure to soften/blend a hard line overlapping area. Compared to the comb structure 1736 of the external effect design graphic 1720, the non-uniform surface is less pronounced. The inner effect design graphic 1740 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1702 of the limbus design graphic 1700 and the translucent annular band 1722 of the outer effect design graphic 1720, respectively. Again, substantially triangular shaped structures 1746 overlap and fill the space between protrusions 1706 and 1708 of limbal design 1700 and elements 1726 , 1728 and 1730 of outer layer design 1720 . Sections of overlapping translucent pigments create additional hues within the pattern that can be darker or lighter, depending on the colors utilized in the individual underlying structures and varying degrees of translucency. The creation of spaces between elements of the pattern is dependent on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1750 of the inner effect graphic 1740 may be clear since this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note that colorants are available in this region or zone as well as in the negative space of the design.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall internal effect design graphic 1740 is a translucent brown color formed by proportioning the following compositions: red iron oxide, phthalo blue, titanium dioxide, trans oxide yellow, yellow iron oxide, Brown iron oxide, and black iron oxide pigments to create colors in the brown to black range. The inner effect design graphic 1740 is printed using techniques described in detail below and is printed in a third order after the outer effect graphic 1720 . In other words, the inner effect design graphic 1740 is printed after the outer design graphic 1720, and the inner effect design graphic is printed on the outer design graphic. The printing and dyeing sequence is discussed from the manufacturing point of view. From the viewer's point of view, this layer or shape will appear behind other layers or shapes. Inner effect design graphic 1740 includes translucent elements, but may also include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The outer diameter of the inner effect design graphic 1740 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1700, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

Figure 17D depicts a fourth exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic contact lens 1760 that includes all three layers or designs 1700, 1720, and 1740 printed in the order described above. However, it is important to note that the printing sequence is different from the other two exemplary embodiments described above because the inner and outer effect layers are interchanged, as in the previous exemplary embodiments described above. Additionally, all three designs have annular bands that create a unique limbal ring design pattern. Although the printing sequence is described from a manufacturing point of view, when the viewer looks at the contact lens worn on the eye, the visual effect is the visual effect of seeing the layers or design graphics in the reverse order of the order described above. As shown, the overlapping layers include different colors, different hues, different degrees of lightness and different degrees of darkness, and patterns that form a unique structure. A change in either the print order or the color will result in a different design. Changes in translucency can also be achieved.

The overall design established by the three layers comprises a ring structure with an inner diameter ranging from about 6.4 to about 6.6 mm and an outer diameter ranging from about 12.70 mm to about 12.775 mm within the range. By design, this ring structure is similar to the iris structure of the eye. The open or negative space in the center of the lens corresponds to the pupillary or optical zone of the eye and is preferably clear so as not to interfere with vision. However, as mentioned above, this area can be the negative space between elements of the design and so can be colored.

Please refer to FIG. 18A , which shows a fifth exemplary embodiment of a limbal design pattern 1800 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, limbal design 1800 includes a translucent annular band 1802 approximately 1.15 mm in width. A plurality of long, medium and short hair-like structures 1806 are connected to the innermost boundary 1804 of the translucent annular zone 1802 and extend from the innermost boundary of the translucent annular zone towards the geometric center of the limbal design 1800 . Additional hair structures 1808 not connected to translucent annular band 1802 are interposed between other hair structures 1806 . Additional structures 1810 are free-form geometric shapes that may resemble circles, squares, triangles, and any combination thereof. These shapes can touch each other or be independent of each other, and overlie and occupy the space between the hair-like structures 1806 and 1808 . All of these structures are designed to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. Translucent annular band 1802 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's limbal region, while protrusions 1806, 1808, and 1810 are designed to enhance and fuse translucent annular band 1802 with the wearer's iris. The creation of spaces between hair-like structures depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the pigment shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1812 of the limbal design 1800 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; coloring is available in this center section. Additionally, colorants can be utilized in the negative space between design elements.

In this exemplary embodiment, the entire limbus design 1800 is a transparent black color formed from black iron oxide pigment. In other embodiments, the limbus design may include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. The limbal design 1800 is printed using techniques described in detail below, and the limbal design is printed first. In other words, this limbal design graphic is the first graphic layer of the overall design to be incorporated into the lens. The printing order affects the overall design, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 18B shows a fifth exemplary embodiment of an internal effect design graphic 1820 according to the present invention. The inner effect graphic 1820 comprises an annular band of non-interconnected long, medium and short dots/dashed lines 1822 generally oriented toward the geometric center of the inner effect graphic 1820 . The overall effect is designed to appear to be structures that occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radiating grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. In this exemplary embodiment, IOD 1820 is used to provide a subtle enhancement that preserves translucency and/or color in a given area, while the IOD is implicitly visible over the natural iris At the directional lines found in the radiating sulcus or ciliary zone. This subtle enhancement also acts to give small accent pin points. Inner effect design graphic 1820 is designed to overlay and enhance the wearer's iris and at least partially overlap translucent annular band 1802 of limbal design graphic 1800 . Additionally, the inner effect design graphic 1820 overlies the protrusions 1806, 1808, and 1810 of the limbal design graphic 1800 in such a way as to have overlapping opaque segments and negative space with filler between the protrusions 1806, 1808, and 1810 some or part of it. The color of the overlapping regions will differ from the color of the individual underlying structures and the degree of translucency will vary. Furthermore, overlapping regions may be darker or lighter depending on the colors utilized in the underlying individual structures. The creation of spaces between elements of the pattern is dependent on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1824 of the design graphic 1820 may be clear because this portion of the design corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note that colorant can be utilized in this area as well as in the negative space between design elements.

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall internal effect design graphic 1820 is a transparent orange color composed of the following compositions in proportion: red iron oxide, trans oxide yellow, yellow iron oxide, brown iron oxide, and Trans-oxide red pigments to create colors in the orange series. Colors in the orange family include yellow and gold. These colors or the colors in this series are intended to accentuate the underlying natural iris color in individuals with brown or dark eyes. Individuals with brightly colored eyes will utilize different colors. In alternative embodiments, inner effect graphics 1820 may include opaque elements and/or a combination of opaque and translucent elements. This inner effect graphic 1820 is printed using techniques described in detail below and is printed in a second order after the limbal graphic 1800 . In other words, the inner effect graphic 1820 is printed after the limbal graphic 1800 and printed on the limbal design graphic. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. This layer will appear behind the graphic 1800 from the viewer's point of view. The outer diameter of the inner effect design graphic 1820 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1800, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

FIG. 18C shows a fifth exemplary embodiment of an external effect design graphic 1840 according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, outer effect design graphic 1840 includes a translucent annular band 1842 with a width of approximately 1.44 mm. A plurality of long, medium and short substantially triangular shaped structures 1846 are connected to and extend from the innermost boundary 1844 of the translucent annular band 1842 . Some of the substantially triangular shaped structures touch each other at the vertices to form an enclosed space 1848 . The outer effect design graphic 1840 also includes a plurality of lines 1850 that are not connected to the translucent annular band 1842 and that are interposed between the substantially triangular shaped structures and that are oriented in the same direction; i.e., toward the outside The geometric center of effect design graphics 1840. These structures are designed to appear to occur naturally within the iris, eg, pupillary muscle structures, folds or radial grooves, crypts, ciliary structures, and the like. The outer perimeter of the annular band 1842 contains comb structures 1852 that change the appearance of the translucent annular band 1842 to a less defined structure. The comb structure 1852 is intended to soften and blend the overlapping lines created by the overlapping translucent colors of the three layers. The outer effect design 1840 is designed to overlay and enhance the translucent annular band 1802 of the limbal design 1800 and the overall inner effect design 1820 and the protruding structures 1806, 1808 and 1810 of the limbal design 1800. Outer layer design graphics 1840 fill in more negative space, and overlapping sections or positive space create additional hues, areas of varying degrees of opacity, and different designs that are separate and distinct from any single layer. In addition, the negative space left between overlapping regions creates shape and pattern, which works by combining with the natural iris to aid blending and cosmetic effects. The creation of negative space between elements of the design depends on the shape of the overlapping and underlying elements, including the paint shapes and features and the exposed iris. The central portion 1854 may be clear since this portion of the lens corresponds to the pupil. However, it is important to note; pigments are available. The comb structure 1852 changes the outer diameter of the translucent annular zone 1802 of the limbal design 1800 by creating the shape of the hard lines that split the limbal design 1800 .

In this exemplary embodiment, the overall exterior design graphic 1840 is a translucent brown color formed from a composition comprising: red iron oxide, titanium dioxide, trans oxide yellow, yellow iron oxide, brown iron oxide, and black oxide Iron pigments to create a range or color ranging from brown to black. In this exemplary embodiment where the outer effect design graphic 1840 and the limbal design graphic 1800 overlap, the outer effect design graphic and the limbal design graphic create a darker, clearer/opaque region while the non-overlapping portion of the design Leaves a more translucent color that provides a translucent blend from opaque to sheer. This technology allows for fusion with the natural iris. The outer effect graphic 1840 is printed using techniques described in detail below, and the outer effect graphic layer is printed in a third order after the inner effect graphic 1820, and the outer effect graphic is printed on the inner effect graphic layer. This printing sequence is discussed from a manufacturing point of view. From the viewer's point of view, this layer will appear behind the inner design graphics 1820. The outer diameter of the outer effect graphic 1840 is smaller than the outer diameter of the limbal design graphic 1800, while the inner diameter is substantially equal.

Figure 18D depicts a fifth exemplary embodiment of a cosmetic contact lens 1860 that includes all three layers or designs 1800, 1820, and 1840 printed in the order described above. Again, the printing order has returned to limbus, inner effect graphics and outer effect graphics, as was the case in the first two exemplary embodiments. Although the printing order is described from a manufacturing point of view, when the observer looks at the contact lens worn on the eye, the visual effect is that of the person who sees the layers or design patterns in the reverse order of the described printing order. As shown, the overlapping layers include different colors, hues, lightness, darkness and patterns that form a unique structure. A change in either the printing order or the color will result in a different design, as described in more detail below. Changes in translucency can also be achieved.

The overall design established by the three layers comprises a ring structure with an inner diameter ranging from about 6.7 to about 7.1 mm and an outer diameter ranging from about 12.675 mm to about 12.750 mm within the range. According to the design, this ring design is similar to the iris structure of the eye. The open or negative space in the center of the lens corresponds to the pupillary or optic zone of the eye and is preferably clear so as not to interfere with vision. However, colorant can be utilized in this area and in the negative space between design elements.

The exemplary embodiments described above relate to contact lenses comprising a multilayer design that can be used to enhance and/or accentuate the appearance of the eye on which the contact lens is positioned, while maintaining a natural appearance. These exemplary designs each comprise three layers; namely, a unique limbal design graphic, a unique inner effect graphic, and a unique outer effect graphic. The layers can be formed using any number of design elements and design principles. For example, threads can be used to define shape and create a profile that mimics or simulates the thread structure, shape, and contours found in natural irises. Color and hue values with varying degrees of translucency and opacity can be used to create blending and contrast, while varying color and hue values can be used to imply depth by forming highlights and shadows. Space can be used to determine composition, for example, positive space can be used to define and imply effect, while negative space can be used to allow the natural iris to contribute to the effect of the overall design. Perspective in overlapping layers can be used to both imply and show depth within a given pattern. Textures can be used to create variations in the iris. As used in the two-dimensional art field, textures are created by using light and dark colors. You can also use light and dark elements to imply depth and form.

As noted above, the present invention utilizes three distinct layers to provide more depth and variation in the overall pattern. The limbal design is that portion of the overall pattern that encircles the outer diameter of the iris and is closest to the sclera and is intended to accentuate, enhance and/or define the limbal region of the eye; however, the limbal design also includes elements that extend into the iris . The inner effect graphic layer is the portion intended to enhance the overall pattern of the iris; however, the outer effect graphic layer may include a portion that also contributes to accentuating, enhancing and/or defining the limbal region of the eye. The outer effect graphic layer is the portion intended to enhance the overall pattern of the iris; however, the outer effect graphic layer may include a portion that also contributes to accentuating, enhancing and/or defining the limbal region of the eye. The multiple layer approach of the present invention can be used to create varying degrees of transparency and/or opacity using overlapping and non-overlapping translucent layers.

While the exemplary embodiments described above illustrate various design features that can be utilized in cosmetic contact lenses, it is important to note, however, that various combinations and sub-combinations of elements/features can be utilized to create new designs. Changes in the printing and dyeing sequence will affect the overall design. Any single color change in at least one layer affects the overall design. Changes to the design of any single layer can affect the overall design, and changes to any of the features of any design in any single layer can affect the overall design. Changes in the size and/or degree of overlap between layers of any design can affect the overall design. Changes in the amount of negative/positive space in any single layer or in each of the layers can affect the overall design. Changes in the translucency of any or all layers can affect the overall design. In addition, additional layers can also affect the overall design. The exemplary embodiments presented above illustrate different designs that can be achieved using the various design elements described herein.

Although several terms are utilized throughout the specification, all designs described herein are intended to enhance the appearance of the wearer's eyes. Accordingly, as used herein, the term "enhance" shall include accentuate, highlight, define, demark, improve, reinforce, enlarge Any action that amplifies, magnifies, intensifies, and/or cosmetically alters the appearance of the wearer's eyes.

It is important to note that all color formulations mentioned earlier herein and in relation to the present invention are generally described in terms of pigment content and generally categorized as a particular color. It is also important to note that any suitable color may be utilized in practicing the present invention.

The designs/patterns/colors used for the different zones of cosmetic contact lenses were developed based on market research. These patterns are then etched into metal structures commonly called cliches. More specifically, a metal plate, preferably made of steel, more preferably stainless steel, is covered with a photoresist material capable of becoming water insoluble when cured. The patterns are selected or designed, then reduced to the desired size using any of a number of suitable techniques, such as photosensitive techniques, placed on a metal plate and the photoresist cured. The metal plate or plate is then washed with an aqueous solution, and the resulting image or pattern is etched on the metal plate to a suitable depth, such as about twenty (20) microns. Once the printing plates are processed, a multi-step process is utilized to manufacture cosmetic contact lenses, as described below.

Figure 19 shows a general overview of the pad printing process utilized in the manufacturing process. The first step 1902 in the process is to lift out the plate cavities with the desired colorant. The printing plate 1901 contains a number of printing plate holes 1903 with specific patterns etched in the printing plate holes. The second step 1904 in the procedure involves removing excess ink or colorant from the surface of the printing plate 1901 . Generally, excess ink is removed from the surface of printing plate 1901 by using one or more scrapers on cup 1905 . In the third step 1906 of the procedure, the toner on the printing plate 1901 is allowed to dry. In the fourth step 1908 of the procedure, the colorant in the printing plate 1901 is picked up by the pad. In a fifth step 1910 of the procedure, the colorant on the pad is allowed to dry or is allowed to dry. In the sixth step 1912 of the procedure, colorant is transferred from the pad to the front curve surface, where additional procedures are performed, as described below. In the seventh step 1914 of the procedure, the colorant on the front curve surface of the front curve mold half is allowed to dry or is allowed to dry. Next, repeat the procedure for the remaining two effect layers.

Figure 20 provides a more detailed procedural description. In a first step 2002, an unprinted front curve mold for one of the contact lenses is provided. In a second step 2004, a clear base (ie, no pigments or dyes) is applied to the front curve. The clear substrate depends on the lens material to be utilized, as described in more detail below. In a third step 2006, the ink (including solvent, clear base, and pigment) is applied to the clear base printed front. Again, this procedure was repeated so that all three layers were applied to the clear base printed base curve. In a fourth step 2008, the printed front is then incorporated into a reactive monomer mixture (eg, etafilcon-A). In the fifth step 2010 of the procedure, the back curve mold for the contact lens is positioned over the front curve mold for two (2) minutes while the temperature is maintained at seventy (70) degrees C. In the sixth step 2012 of the procedure, the surface of the reactive monomer mixture between the front and back curves is exposed to visible light for curing. This curing step utilizes five (5) mW visible light for (4) minutes at a temperature of seventy (70) degrees C. In the seventh step 2014 of the procedure, the contact lenses from the molds were placed in a seventy (70) degree C solution of 800 ppm Tween 80 in deionized water for one (1) hour, and for forty-five (45) C deionized water for an additional one (1) hour to hydrate. In the eighth step 2016 of the procedure, the contact lenses are steam sterilized in their own encapsulated saline solution at a temperature of one hundred twenty-four (124) degrees C for eighteen (18) minutes. It is important to note that the procedures described above have been simplified for ease of illustration.

As mentioned above, the lens forming material comprises Etafilcon A. Etafilcon A is a well known and patented material used in the manufacture of contact lenses. Etafilcon A is methyl alcohol cross-linked with 1, 1, 1-trimethylol propane trimethacrylate (1, 1, 1-trimethylol propope trimethacrylate) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) Copolymer of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (2-hydroxyethal methacrylate) and methacrylic acid. Etafilcon A is utilized in a number of contact lenses available from VISTAKON® (a division of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.). It is important to note that while the exemplary embodiments described herein utilize Etafilcon A, any suitable lens forming material may be utilized. For Etafilcon A, preferred binder polymers are random block copolymers of HEMA, and homopolymers of MAA or HEMA. The weight percents of the components in these examples, based on the total weight of the binder polymer, are from about 93 to about 100 weight percent HEMA and from about 0 to about 2 weight percent MAA.

Using the procedure described above, or a similar procedure, the pigment is enclosed within the clear substrate and host material from which the lens is formed. In other words, all pigment layers are enclosed within the lens material and never contact the eye.

Figure 21 shows the basic structure of a cosmetic contact lens formed by the procedure described above. One or more effect layers 2104 are sandwiched or encapsulated between the clear substrate 2102 and the host lens material 2106 . Although only a single effect layer is shown, any number of effect layers or pigment print layers may be encapsulated between two other layers. As shown, the contact lens includes a completely clear base layer to encapsulate the one or more pigment-printed layers within the lens material, even though the one or more pigment-printed layers have a substantially annular structure. Even with the spokes, none of the pigment designs extend into the optic zone of the lens. In other words, with this design, the central optical zone or central optical zone of the contact lens is covered with a clear base material. In order to maintain precise optical surfaces and pathways, and thus provide optimal vision, safety, and comfort for the patient, relative to the complete coverage described above in step 2004, it may be possible by printing the printing plate with a ring pattern to precede A clear annular band is printed on the curve to remove the clear base material from the central optical zone. The clear annular band can be sized to encapsulate or cover any design layer. More specifically, by properly dimensioning the printing plate, the openings in the annular structure can be optimized to maintain optical quality while ensuring encapsulation of the pigment print. Since none of the designs should go into the optical zone, there is no need to package any items in this zone.

It is important to note that any number of terms may be used to describe encapsulated pigment regions as referred to herein. For example, pigment layers may be referred to as effect layers, print layers, design layers, and pigment print layers.

22, 22A, and 22B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a printing plate 2200 that may be utilized in accordance with the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, a printing plate 2200 is used to deposit a clear base material on the front curve mold in a substantially annular pattern. In this exemplary embodiment, the procedure described above for ink deposition is first utilized with the basecoat material. In other words, the procedure described above with respect to FIGS. 19 and 20 is first utilized to deposit the clear basecoat material on the front curve mold at a location that allows the package to contain any suitably designed Pigment; (ie, the area corresponding to the pupillary area of the eye) was free of any clear base coat material. The modified clear base plate 2200 eliminates the presence of clear base coat material in the optic zone while covering any pigment designs, or eliminates the presence of clear base coat material while covering all remaining portions of the front of the contact lens. In other words, the clear base can extend through the design to the edge of the lens. The printing plate 2200 includes a first annular section 2202 , a transition section 2206 and an optical zone opening 2204 . The first annular section 2202 may extend to the transition section 2206 from a location corresponding to the edge of the contact lens or from any point interposed from the edge of the lens corresponding to a location near the paint design. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first annular section 2202 has an inner diameter of about 3.9 mm and an outer diameter of about 17 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the first annular section 2202 has an inner diameter of about 6 mm and an outer diameter of about 13.5 mm. The first annular section 2202 is the portion of the printing plate 2200 that will pick up the clear substrate material for transfer to the pad. Transition section 2206 is a smaller annular band that extends from the inner diameter of first annular section 2202 to an outer diameter of optic zone opening 2204 . According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, transition section 2206 has an inner diameter of about 1.9 mm and an outer diameter of about 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, transition section 2206 has an inner diameter of about 4.4 mm and an outer diameter of about 6 mm. The transition section 2206 is configured to maintain a decreasing amount of clear basecoat material as it approaches the optic zone opening 2204, and this can be achieved in a number of different ways as mentioned herein. As depicted, transition section 2206 includes a dithering pattern or matrix that picks up an amount of basecoat material for deposition on the front curve mold. A transition section or zone 2206 is utilized to better blend or integrate the two materials together. More specifically, the transition section 2206 with the pattern/matrix and decreasing amount of basecoat material to be transferred provides better fusion/integration of the clear basecoat material with the lens monomer, thereby reducing Any induced stress that would have occurred in the absence of segment 2206. In an exemplary embodiment, transition section 2206 has a thickness of approximately 30 microns proximate first annular section 2202 and a thickness of approximately 0 microns proximate optic zone opening 2204 . In a preferred embodiment, the transition section 2206 has a thickness of about 20 microns near the first annular section 2202 and about 10 microns near the optic zone opening 2204 . However, after pad printing, the printed front curve is incorporated into the reactive monomer mixture and the back curve mold is positioned over the front curve mold to form a lens, as mentioned above, without thickness variation in the lens.

It is important to note that any suitable procedure or technique may be utilized to encapsulate a pigment design, as long as no base coat material is deposited in the central optical zone, but only the lens monomer. Also, it is important to note that the dimensions of the clear basecoat material to be transferred from the printing plate 2200 are based on factors such as pad geometry and stiffness, and ultimately on lens expansion and measurement techniques.

The exemplary transition section 2206 described above includes both the pattern/matrix detailed in the exploded view of Figure 22A and the thickness gradient detailed in the exploded cross-sectional view of Figure 22B. However, other exemplary transition sections may include only one or the other, rather than a combination as mentioned above. Specifically, in an alternative exemplary embodiment, the transition section may comprise only one pattern/matrix, where the reduction in pattern density acts to reduce material thickness, resulting in a reduction in potential induced stress. In another alternative exemplary embodiment, solid layers of decreasing amounts of material may be utilized, resulting in a reduction in potential induced stresses. The pattern/matrix (whether utilized alone or in combination with a thickness gradient profile) may comprise any suitable pattern. For example, the pattern may comprise any suitable geometric design, dithering design, dot matrix design, or any random design. The design shown in FIGS. 22 and 22A is a basic design with a decreasing feature density from the first annular segment 2202 toward the optical region opening 2204 .

Figure 23 shows the basic structure of a cosmetic contact lens formed by the procedure described above according to the invention. One or more effect layers and/or pigment printing layers 2304 are sandwiched or encapsulated between the ring-shaped clear substrate 2302 and the main lens material 2306 . As before, although only a single effect layer is shown, any number of effect layers may be encapsulated between two other layers. As depicted, the contact lens includes a ring-shaped clear base material layer 2302 to encapsulate one or more pigmented layers within the host lens material (ie, the reactive monomer mixture). In other words, with this design, the central optical zone or central optical zone 2308 of the contact lens is uncovered, thereby maintaining a precise optical surface and path while maintaining a high level of comfort while ensuring complete coverage/encapsulation of the pigment layer 2304 . The design of the printing plate 2200 with the transition section 2206 creates a transition zone 2310 in the annular shaped clear base layer 2302 which provides better fusion/integration between the materials as detailed above. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, opening 2308 has a diameter in the range of from about 1.9 mm to about 8.8 mm, and in a preferred embodiment, has a diameter of about 5.75 mm.

In an alternative exemplary embodiment where a lubricious coating is applied to the front surface, back surface, or both of a cosmetic or non-cosmetic contact lens for reasons other than encapsulation of pigments, for example, for comfort, It may be desirable to utilize ring structures with the transition segments disclosed herein for better fusion/integration of materials while maintaining high optical quality. More specifically, if a contact lens is formed from a first material and then a second material is added to one or both of the surfaces to increase the lubricity of the lens, the fusion of the two materials can induce stress , as described above. The solution would again be a ring coating/structure with a transition section as mentioned above to reduce potential induced stress.

According to another exemplary embodiment, pearlescent pigments may be incorporated into one or more regions or portions of a cosmetic contact lens to add a sparkle, luster, and iridescent appearance to the cosmetic contact lens. For example, such pearlescent pigments can be added to at least the portion of the lens corresponding to the wearer's sclera. Layers of transparent material with different refractive indices alternate, producing a pearly luster and interference effect. Pearlescent pigments can be combined with other pearlescent pigments, and/or with different types of pigments, such as iron oxides, phthalocyanines and titanium dioxide, or dyes. Some of the resulting colors can be silver, gold, and various shades of red, blue, and green.

In general, the preferred pigment currently available for creating a brightly colored scleral zone on a cosmetic contact lens is titanium dioxide. A cosmetic contact lens according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention incorporates pearlescent pigments into the region corresponding to the wearer's sclera to create a shiny, glossy, and iridescent appearance. In other words, the incorporation or incorporation of pearlescent pigments, such as mica-based pearlescent pigments coated with titanium dioxide, will whiten the scleral region, which has a wet reflective appearance and which also looks natural. A preferred pearlescent pigment is a silver type coated with titanium dioxide, a mica-based pigment. An exemplary mica-based pigment is potassium aluminum silicate, which may be coated with titanium dioxide _TiO2 or iron _{oxide Fe2O3} . EMD Chemicals Inc. offers a food and drug approved natural silicate bound to titanium dioxide under the trade name Candurin®. However, it is important to note that any pearlescent pigment can be combined with other pearlescent pigments, and/or with different types of pigments or dyes, and utilized in the scleral region.

The cosmetic contact lens incorporating pearlescent pigments of the present invention may include a limbal ring, a pattern overlying the wearer's iris, a pattern overlying the pupil region, a clear pupil region, and a brightly colored sclera region . A brightly colored scleral region having a geometric pattern, and/or any combination thereof. The limbal ring is preferably opaque or translucent. The iris region can be translucent, opaque, or transparent. The pupillary tract is transparent or contains no pattern. Pigments and dyes can also be used to color the pattern elements of the limbal area, iris area, and pupil area of the contact lens. The elements of the pattern may be colored using any organic pigments, inorganic pigments, effect pigments, dyes, or any combination thereof.

Please refer now to FIG. 24, which is a diagram showing a cosmetic contact lens 2400 having a bright-colored sclera region 2402 formed from a mixture containing pearlescent pigments according to the present invention. A brightly colored sclera region 2402 with pearlescent pigments can be fabricated as follows. A clear base ink was prepared by adding 35.35 g of 1-propanol to 588.11 g of 1D clear base. A more detailed description of the clear base ink composition and its preparation is given below. The ink samples were then mixed with a Servodyne mixer at 1800 rpm for three (3) minutes. Twenty (20) percent Silver Fine ink was prepared by adding 5.98 g of 1-propanol to 20.05 g of Silver Fine pigment (EMD Chemicals, Candurian® Pearl Effect Colors) and 80.01 g of 1D clear base . The mixture was then hand mixed. A steel relief plate with an etched pattern is filled with the ink mixture and printed onto the surface of one of the molds described above. A silicon pad is used to transfer the ink from the relief plate to the mold surface. Print and dye the clear base ink first and then print and dye the Silver Fine ink. A lens forming material (ie, etafilcon A reactive monomer mix) was deposited onto the printed mold, followed by a complementary mold half to complete the mold assembly. The lens material is then cured, released from the mold, and equilibrated in buffered saline solution, all as described in more detail above. Encapsulate pearlescent pigments in lens materials.

Using 96 g of 1-dodecanethiol (DODT), 56.54 g of lauryl methacrylate (LMA), 7.40 g of methacrylic acid (MAA), 1367 g of hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 68.5 g of glycerin, 378 g of 1-ethoxy-2-propanol (EP), 1511 g of isopropyl lactate (IPL) and 8.89 g of 2,2'-azobis(2-methylbutyl Nitrile) (AMBN) is made as a binder polymer for clear base inks. In addition to about 50 to 100 cc of IPL, DODT, monomer, and solvent were added first, mixed in a five (5) liter blue cap bottle, and stirred for ten (10) minutes. This mixture was then poured into a five (5) liter stainless steel reactor with stirrer and nitrogen. Stir the mixture and heat for approximately twenty-five (25) minutes until the temperature reaches sixty-eight (68) degrees Celsius. After the temperature stabilized at sixty-eight (68) degrees Celsius, AMBN was dissolved in the remaining IPL and added with the nitrogen vent turned on. The polymerization is allowed to proceed for 16 to 24 hours, after which the temperature is raised to eighty (80) degrees Celsius and the reaction is complete. The mixture was then equilibrated to room temperature. By mixing four (4) parts IPL with one (1) part EP, adjust the viscosity of the mixture as desired.

As mentioned above, the lens forming material comprises Etafilcon A. Etafilcon A is a well known and patented material used in the manufacture of contact lenses. Etafilcon A is methyl alcohol cross-linked with 1, 1, 1-trimethylol propane trimethacrylate (1, 1, 1-trimethylol propope trimethacrylate) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) Copolymer of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (2-hydroxyethal methacrylate) and methacrylic acid. Etafilcon A is utilized in a number of contact lenses available from VISTAKON® (a division of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.). It is important to note that while the exemplary embodiments described herein utilize Etafilcon A, any suitable lens forming material may be utilized.

According to another exemplary embodiment, the invention relates to a cosmetic contact lens comprising: one or more effect layers overlying one or more regions of the eye on which they are placed; pearlescent pigments , which are incorporated into the portion of the contact lens overlying various regions of the eye, such as the sclera, iris, or both sclera and iris as detailed above; and a clear coating that encapsulates the one or Multiple effect layers and pearlescent pigments. Preferably, the clear coating has an annular shape as described above, in order to give the highest optical quality to the central vision portion of the lens. According to another exemplary embodiment, pearlescent pigments may be incorporated in segments overlying the sclera, iris, and limbal ring, in the sclera and limbal ring, in the limbal ring and iris, in the sclera only, in the iris only , or only in the limbal ring. Additionally, there may be exemplary embodiments where the limbal ring has the following properties and may also contain pearlescent pigments, while other exemplary embodiments may not utilize a limbal ring.

It is important to note that any segment of the contact lens may contain only one or a combination of the following: ink composition/dye/pigment to create the effect layer described herein, and as described herein Coated with mica-based pearlescent pigments. For example, an effect layer formed of a pigment can be combined with a pearlescent pigment based on mica, an effect layer of a pigment plus a pearlescent pigment based on mica can be combined with a pearlescent pigment based on mica, an effect layer of a pigment plus a pearlescent pigment based on mica can be combined with a pigment The effect layer based on mica-based pearlescent pigment is combined, and the effect layer based on mica-based pearlescent pigment is combined and used in any section constituting the contact lens. In addition, only mica can be used to form an effect layer. Mica can be used as an opacifying agent or as a main additive in the formation of color compositions. For example, mica can be used to produce more vivid yellow.

More specifically, the mica-based pearlescent pigment can be utilized as an opacifying agent in the formation of the limbal ring, or the like can be utilized as a main element in the formation of the limbal ring itself. In an exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 25, mica-based pearlescent pigments can be added to a limbal ring effect to add vibrancy and sparkle to the limbal ring. In FIG. 25, a first exemplary embodiment of a limbal ring-tapered spoke pattern on a contact lens 2500 is depicted. In this exemplary embodiment, the limbal ring 2502 is a black opaque band approximately 1 mm in width. A plurality of randomly arranged tapered spokes 2506 begin at the innermost boundary 2504 of the limbal ring 2502 and extend inwardly toward the geometric center of the contact lens 2500, the innermost boundary 2512 of which forms a shape having 7 A circle of mm diameter. Although all spokes 2506 are substantially similarly configured, preferably none of the spokes 2506 is exactly the same as the other spoke 2506 . The spokes 2506 are interspersed or bounded by spaces 2508 without any elements in the spaces. The spaces 2508 are also substantially similarly configured, but preferably none of the spaces 2508 is configured exactly the same as any other space 2508 or spoke 2506. Area 2510 is an area free of any pattern elements which, as shown, will partially constitute the iris portion of the wearer's eye and the overall pupil portion of the wearer's eye, or where the lens is centered on the eye At the same time, this area will partially constitute the portion of the lens that overlies the wearer's pupil. As shown, area 2510 is clear, but it could be translucent or could also be colored opaque. The innermost border 2504 as shown is a uniform, regular shape, but could be a non-uniform, irregular border. Similarly, while tapered spoke boundary 2512 forms a substantially uniform boundary, it may form a non-uniform boundary. Mica-based pearlescent pigments 2514 are encapsulated within limbal ring region 2502, which may have a random or non-random pattern. It is important to note that mica-based pearlescent pigments may have been incorporated into any of the designs shown herein.

Mica-based pearlescent pigments can be utilized in forming the segments overlying the iris region. For example, pearlescent pigments based on mica can be used to create effect layers. Different coatings on mica are available. Mica-based pearlescent pigments can be added to existing effect layers. Mica-based pearlescent pigments can be added as an opacifying agent to existing effect layers. In addition, new colors can be developed using mica-based pigments.

Referring now to FIG. 26, there is shown an exemplary effect design 2600 for a cosmetic contact lens overlying the iris area of the wearer's eye. As can be seen from Figure 26, this design pattern does not contain the limbal ring that most other designs do, creating a completely different effect. Furthermore, unlike other designs, this exemplary embodiment only includes mica-based pearlescent pigment 2602 to make up this design. The mica-based pearlescent pigment 2602 is located in the iris region and can have a random or non-random pattern. Furthermore, as proposed herein, the mica-based pearlescent pigments can be coated with various other materials to change their color or add additional effects. In other exemplary embodiments, an effect layer as depicted may comprise a combination of standard pigments and pearlescent pigments as described above. It is important to note that while Figure 26 is depicted as a regularly shaped pigment, it could take any shape other than circular.

Mica-based pearlescent pigments can be utilized in forming the segments overlying the scleral region. For example, an effect layer can be created in the sclera with mica-based pearlescent pigments. Different coatings on mica are available. Mica-based pearlescent pigments can be added to the existing effect layer in the scleral region, for example to intensify the colour. Mica-based pearlescent pigments can be added as an opacifying agent in the scleral region. In addition, new colors for use in the scleral region can be developed using mica-based pigments. The range and amount of mica-based pearlescent pigments added to one or more segments or regions of the contact lens can be adjusted, ranging from subtle to dramatic, depending on the desired effect.

While what is shown and described is what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, one of ordinary skill in the art could readily contemplate departures from the specific designs and methods described and shown, and may be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The invention is not limited to the exact constructions described and illustrated, but should be constructed with all modifications that may fall within the purview of the appended claims. definition

For eye enhancement contact lenses with improved cosmetic effect, circular or non-circular in shape, the following definitions apply.

Special effect pigments include muscovite, synthetic phlogopite, synthetic alumina, borosilicate, calcium aluminum borosilicate, silica sheet, metal oxide coated muscovite, metal oxide coated synthetic phlogopite, Metal oxide coated synthetic alumina, metal oxide coated borosilicate, metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicate, metal oxide coated silica sheet, and combinations thereof. Other generally known interference pigments can also be used as special effect pigments.

Colorants include metal oxide pigments, organic dyes, cholesteric liquid crystals, and combinations thereof.

Metal oxide pigments include iron oxide, chromium oxide, titanium dioxide, and combinations thereof. Other metal oxides can be used.

Organic dyes include phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, carbazole violet, Vat Orange 1, and combinations thereof. Other organic dyes can be used.

The weight ratio of colorant to special effect pigment in the pattern can vary from zero to about 99; from zero to 10; from zero to 1 for brown eyes; from zero to 0.5 for green eyes; and from zero to 0.3 for blue eyes .

The special effect pigment ink comprises at least one special effect pigment and at least one solvent, and optionally further comprises a colorant, a binder polymer, or a copolymer. The binder polymer or copolymer can be any polymer that enhances the performance of the ink. In some cases, the binding polymer or copolymer is made from a subset of monomers used to make hydrogel or silicone hydrogel contact lenses. In some cases, the binder polymer or copolymer is identical to that used in the clear base ink formulation.

The concentration of the effect pigment in the ink formulation can be varied individually: from about 0.01 to about 50 weight percent; from about 0.01 to about 30 weight percent; from about 0.5 to about 40 weight percent; from about 0.5 to about 25 weight percent; from about from about 5 to about 30 weight percent; and from about 5 to about 20 weight percent. The concentration of the colorant in the ink formulation can vary individually: from about 0.01 to about 27 weight percent; from about 0.1 to about 10 weight percent; and from about 0.1 to about 5 weight percent.

Suitable solvents include, but are not limited to, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-ethoxy-2-propanol (1E2P), tert-butanol, tert-pentanol, and 3,7-dimethyl -1,7-octanediol (D3O), tripropylene glycol methyl ether (TPME), isopropyl lactate (IPL), 1-(2 hydroxyethyl)-2 pyrrolidone (HEP), glycerol, or A mixture of two or more of them. Preferred solvents are 1E2P, IPL, D3O, HEP, 1-propanol, or mixtures thereof. Item

For the sake of completeness, various aspects of the disclosure are presented in the following numbered clauses. Clause 1. An eye enhancement contact lens comprising a curved polymeric lens having at least one pattern that visually alters to a viewer one of the cosmetic appearances of the iris and limbus of an eye Printed layer, wherein the pattern contains a special effect pigment in sufficient concentration such that when the pattern is positioned over the sclera, a viewer is less disturbed by placement on the eye than the same pattern without special effect pigment Or normal lens movement to see the pattern, thereby providing a more natural look. Clause 2. The eye enhancement contact lens of Clause 1, wherein the pattern is a substantially annular configuration. Item 3. The eye-enhancing contact lenses of Item 1 and Item 2, wherein the special effect pigments include muscovite, synthetic fluorphlogopite, synthetic alumina, borosilicate, calcium aluminum borosilicate, silicon dioxide Sheet, metal oxide coated muscovite, metal oxide coated synthetic fluorophlogite, metal oxide coated synthetic alumina, metal oxide coated borosilicate, metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicate, metal oxide Material-coated silica sheets, and combinations thereof. Clause 4. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of Clauses 1 to 3, which further comprises a colorant, the pattern being made with the colorant. Clause 5. The eye enhancement contact lens of Clause 4, wherein the colorant comprises metal oxide pigments, organic dyes, cholesteric liquid crystals, and combinations thereof. Clause 6. The eye enhancement contact lens of Clause 5, wherein the metal oxide pigments comprise iron oxide, chromium oxide, titanium dioxide, and combinations thereof. Clause 7. The eye enhancement contact lens of clause 5, wherein the organic dyes comprise phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, carbazole violet, reduced orange 1, and combinations thereof. Clause 8. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the special effect pigment has varying concentrations within the pattern. Clause 9. The eye enhancement contact lens of Clause 8, wherein the special effect pigment is more concentrated in one of the outermost peripheries of the pattern. Clause 10. The eye enhancement contact lens of Clause 9, wherein the outermost periphery represents from about 1% to about 40% of the annular width of the pattern. Clause 11. The eye enhancement contact lens of Clause 10, wherein the outermost periphery represents from about 5% to about 30% of the annular width of the pattern. Clause 12. The eye-enhancing contact lens of any one of clauses 1 to 11, wherein the opacity of the cosmetic pattern exhibits one of the following opacities: 30 percent or less; 25 percent or less; 20 percent; less than or equal to 15 percent; less than or equal to 10 percent; or less than or equal to 5 percent. Clause 13. An ink for use in making an eye-enhancing contact lens, the ink comprising: a) a special effect pigment; and b) a solvent. Item 14. The ink as in Item 13, wherein the special effect pigments include muscovite, synthetic fluorphlogopite, synthetic alumina, borosilicate, calcium aluminum borosilicate, silica sheet, metal oxide coating Muscovite, metal oxide coated synthetic fluorophlogite, metal oxide coated synthetic alumina, metal oxide coated borosilicate, metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicate, metal oxide coated silicon dioxide sheet , and combinations thereof. Item 15. The inks of Item 13 and Item 15, wherein the concentration of the special effect pigment is between 0.01% by weight and 50% by weight. Item 16. The ink of Item 15, wherein the concentration of the special effect pigment is between 0.5% by weight and 40% by weight. Item 17. The ink of Item 16, wherein the concentration of the special effect pigment is between 5% by weight and 30% by weight. Item 18. The ink according to any one of Items 13 to 17, which further comprises a colorant. Item 19. The ink of Item 18, wherein the colorant comprises metal oxide pigments, organic dyes, and combinations thereof. Item 20. The ink of Item 19, wherein the metal oxide pigments include iron oxide, chromium oxide, titanium dioxide, and combinations thereof. Item 21. The ink of Item 19, wherein the organic dyes include phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, carbazole violet, vat orange 1, and combinations thereof. Item 22. The ink according to any one of Items 18 to 21, wherein the colorant concentration is between 0.01% by weight and 27% by weight. Item 23. The ink of Item 22, wherein the concentration of the colorant is between 0.1% by weight and 10% by weight. Item 24. The ink of Item 23, wherein the colorant concentration is between 0.1% by weight and 5% by weight. Clause 25. An eye enhancement contact lens made from the ink of any one of Clauses 13-24. Clause 26. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of clauses 1 to 12, 25, wherein the eye enhancement contact lens is circular. Clause 27. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of Clauses 1 to 12, 25, wherein the eye enhancement contact lens is non-circular. example

-2-基胺基)-4-磺酸基苯胺基]蒽醌-2-磺酸，如美國專利第5,944,853號中所述 DIW：去離子水 IPA：異丙醇 1E2P：1-乙氧基-2-丙醇 IPL：乳酸異丙酯 硼酸鹽緩衝包裝溶液：0.84重量百分比的氯化鈉、0.91重量百分比的硼酸、0.24重量百分比的硼酸鈉十水合物、0.01重量百分比的乙二胺四乙酸二鈉、及98重量百分比的去離子水。 BAGE：硼酸甘油酯（硼酸與甘油之莫耳比係1:2）將299.3克(3.2 mol)的甘油及99.8克(1.6 mol)的硼酸溶於合適反應器內之1247.4克的5% (w/w) EDTA水溶液中，接著在溫和真空（2至6托）下攪拌並加熱至90至94℃歷時4至5小時，然後使其冷卻至室溫。 顏料： 二氧化鈦：Cosmetic White C47-060 (Chempilots) 氧化鐵黑：Sicovit Black 85 E172 (Chempilots) 氧化鐵棕：Sicovit Brown 75 E172 (Chempilots) 氧化鐵紅：Sicovit Red 30 E172 (Chempilots) 反式氧化物紅色：Trans Oxide Red AC1000 (Chempilots) 氧化鐵黃：Sicovit Yellow 10 E172 (Chempilots) 反式氧化物黃色：Trans Oxide Yellow AC0500 (Chempilots) 酞青藍色：Phthalocyanine Blue 15 (Chempilots) 酞青綠色：Phthalocyanine Green (Chempilots) 咔唑紫：Carbazole Violet 23 (Chempilots) Spectraval Blue (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Spectraval Green (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Spectraval Red (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Spectraval White (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Candurin® Gold Lustre (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Cloisonné Sparkle Bronze 250J (BASF) Timica Gold Sparkle 212P (BASF) Timica Copper 340A (BASF) Flameco® Sparkle Gold 220J (BASF) 用於「隱形眼鏡美容效果」之測試方法 The following abbreviations will be used extensively in the examples and have the following meanings: TL03 Lamp: Phillips TLK 40W/03 Bulb or TLK 20W/03 Bulb BC: Base Curved Plastic Mold FC: Front Curved Plastic Mold PS: Polystyrene, which is styrene It is a homopolymer of propylene and is used as a plastic mold resin or component and may contain additives PP: Polypropylene, which is a homopolymer of propylene and is used as a plastic mold resin or component and may contain additives TT: Tuftec, which is a hydrogenated benzene Ethylene Butadiene Block Copolymer (Asahi Kasei Chemicals) and used as a plastic mold resin or component and may contain additive Z: Zeonor, which is a polycycloolefin thermoplastic polymer (Nippon Zeon Co Ltd) and used as a plastic mold resin or components and may contain additives RMM: Reactive Monomer Mixture(s) HEMA: 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate (Bimax) MAA: Methacrylic Acid (Acros) EGDMA: Ethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate ( Esstech) TMPTMA: trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (Esstech) Omnirad 1700: bis(2,6-dimethoxybenzoyl)-2,4,4-trimethylpentylphosphine oxide with 2 -Hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-one mixture AIBN: azobisisobutyronitrile (starter) DODT: 1-dodecylmercaptan (chain transfer agent) Norbloc: 2-(2'-Hydroxy-5-methacryloxyethylphenyl)-2H-benzotriazole (Janssen) blue HEMA: 1-amino-4-[3-(4-(2 -methacryloxy-ethoxy)-6-chlorotri

-2-ylamino)-4-sulfoanilino]anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,944,853 DIW: deionized water IPA: isopropanol 1E2P: 1-ethoxy - 2-Propanol IPL: Isopropyl Lactate Borate Buffer Packaging Solution: 0.84 wt% Sodium Chloride, 0.91 wt% Boric Acid, 0.24 wt% Sodium Borate Decahydrate, 0.01 wt% EDTA disodium, and 98 weight percent deionized water. BAGE: Glycerol borate (the molar ratio of boric acid to glycerin is 1:2) Dissolve 299.3 grams (3.2 mol) of glycerin and 99.8 grams (1.6 mol) of boric acid in 1247.4 grams of 5% (w /w) in aqueous EDTA, followed by stirring and heating to 90 to 94°C under gentle vacuum (2 to 6 Torr) for 4 to 5 hours, then allowed to cool to room temperature. Pigments: Titanium Dioxide: Cosmetic White C47-060 (Chempilots) Iron Oxide Black: Sicovit Black 85 E172 (Chempilots) Iron Oxide Brown: Sicovit Brown 75 E172 (Chempilots) Iron Oxide Red: Sicovit Red 30 E172 (Chempilots) Trans Oxide Red : Trans Oxide Red AC1000 (Chempilots) Iron Oxide Yellow: Sicovit Yellow 10 E172 (Chempilots) Trans Oxide Yellow AC0500 (Chempilots) Phthalocyanine Blue: Phthalocyanine Blue 15 (Chempilots) Phthalocyanine Green ( Chempilots) Carbazole Violet: Carbazole Violet 23 (Chempilots) Spectraval Blue (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Spectraval Green (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Spectraval Red (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Spectraval White (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Materials) Candurin® Gold Luster (Merck KGaA, EMD Performance Materials) Cloisonné Sparkle Bronze 250J (BASF) Timica Gold Sparkle 212P (BASF) Timica Copper 340A (BASF) Flameco® Sparkle Gold 220J (BASF) for "Contact Lens Cosmetic Effect" test method

The eye enhancement contact lenses of the present invention are believed to exhibit improved cosmetic benefits when positioned over the sclera by placement or normal movement on the eye with little visible or discernible cosmetic pattern to a third party viewer. A graphical method for determining whether an improved cosmetic effect works for a given cosmetic pattern is shown in FIG. 27, which shows a cosmetic pattern with an opacity equal to or less than 30 percent on a dark background (such as via Pigmented irises) are clearly visible over a white background such as the sclera, but barely discernible over a white background such as the sclera. As a result, eye enhancement contact lenses having a cosmetic graphic having an opacity of 30 percent or less were deemed to exhibit improved cosmetic benefits as perceived by a third party observer. Cosmetic graphics with higher opacity will not provide improved cosmetic results due to placement or movement of the contact lens on the eye. It should be noted that the opacity depends not only on the composition and concentration of the pigments and dyes used, but also on the decorative pattern, the number of effect layers, and the degree of overlap between the effect layers. The improved cosmetic effect can also be observed by placing a cosmetic lens on an artificial eye with a tinted iris and then by moving the lens over the sclera portion of the eye model. The cosmetic pattern can appear to blend into the sclera and/or become nearly invisible to a third party viewer. Clear Base Ink Preparation #1

A tacky copolymer was prepared from HEMA and MAA by a free radical polymerization method using AIBN as an initiator and DODT as a chain transfer agent with about 1.4 weight percent MAA repeating units. Copolymerization conditions can be varied to control the composition, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution of the tacky copolymer. The composition is about 1.4 weight percent of MAA repeating units, about 96.6 weight percent of HEMA repeating units, and about 2 weight percent of DODT. The binder copolymer interacts with and stabilizes the pigment/dye dispersion. The binding copolymer was dissolved in a solution of a 4:1 (w/w) solution of IPL:1E2P at a concentration ranging from about 20 weight percent to about 40 weight percent. Typically the binder copolymer concentration is 30% by weight. The solution viscosity can be adjusted by diluting with a 4:1 (w/w) solution of IPL:1E2P or 1-propanol as needed. 1-propanol is preferred. ink preparation

Colored inks impart desired colors, patterns, and/or effects to a cosmetic contact lens by mixing pigments and/or dyes in certain concentrations into clear base inks. The concentration of pigments and dyes can vary from about 1 weight percent to about 25 weight percent, depending on the opacity, translucency, or transparency of the printed layer. 1-Propanol can be added after pigments and dyes have been added to adjust viscosity or modify evaporation rate. In Table A, six special effect ink compositions are listed. Concentrations of specific pigments or dyes are listed in weight percent. The clear base ink contains about 30 weight percent of a binder copolymer due to about 1.4 weight percent of MAA repeat units, about 96.6 weight percent of HEMA repeat units in a 4:1 (w/w) solution of IPL:1E2P unit, about 2% by weight of DODT. The Brookfield viscosity of these colored inks is reduced by adding 1-propanol to the initial pigment/dye dispersion such that the Brookfield viscosity is between about 5000 centipoise and about 8000 centipoise, preferably about 5500 Between centipoise and 6500 centipoise. Table A. Ink Formulations (Pigment/Dye Concentrations in Weight Percents) Pigment/ Dye Ink #1 Ink #2 Ink #3 Ink #4 Ink #5 Ink #6 green red blue gold bronze green Spectraval Green 15.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 15.0 Spectraval Red 0.0 15.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Spectraval Blue 0.0 0.0 15.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Cloisonné Sparkle Bronze 250J 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 8.0 0.0 Timica Gold Sparkle 212P 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.7 0.0 0.0 Timica Copper 340A 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.8 0.0 0.0 Phthalo blue 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 example 1 and 4 4 4 3 3 2

Colored inks impart desired colors, patterns, and/or effects to a cosmetic contact lens by mixing pigments and/or dyes in certain concentrations into clear base inks. 1-Propanol can be added after pigments and dyes are added to adjacent viscosities or to modify evaporation rates. In Table B and Table C, eleven kinds of special effect ink compositions are listed. Concentrations of specific pigments or dyes are listed in weight percent. The relative amounts of Flamenco Sparkle Gold, iron oxide black, and iron oxide yellow pigments were varied. The total pigment concentration varies from about 5.01 weight percent to about 40 weight percent, depending on the opacity, translucency, or transparency of the printed layer. The clear base ink contains about 30 weight percent of a binder copolymer due to about 1.4 weight percent of MAA repeat units, about 96.6 weight percent of HEMA repeat units in a 4:1 (w/w) solution of IPL:1E2P unit, about 2% by weight of DODT. The Brookfield viscosity of these colored inks is reduced by adding 1-propanol to the initial pigment dispersion such that the Brookfield viscosity is between about 5000 centipoise and about 8000 centipoise, preferably about 5500 centipoise and between 6500 centipoise. Table B. Ink Formulations (Pigment/Dye Concentrations in Weight Percents) Pigment/ Dye Ink #7 Ink #8 Ink #9 Ink #10 Ink #11 Ink #12 Flamenco Sparkle Gold Mica 5 20 5 20 5 20 iron oxide black 0.01 0.01 0.1 0.1 0.5 0.5 Iron oxide yellow 0 0 0 0 0 0 example 5 6 7 8 9 10 Table C. Ink Formulations (Pigment/Dye Concentrations in Weight Percents) Pigment/ Dye Ink #13 Ink #14 Ink #15 Ink #16 Ink #17 Flamenco Sparkle Gold Mica 5 20 40 30 20 iron oxide black 0 0 0 0 0 Iron oxide yellow 0.1 0.1 0 0 0 example 11 12 13 14 15 Example 1

Printed contact lenses are manufactured on an automated pilot manufacturing line capable of pad printing and manufacturing contact lenses, where the oxygen level is maintained between 0.5% and 5%. Front and base curve molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. For example, the front curve mold is made of polystyrene and the base curve mold is made of Zeonor. The front and base curve molds were degassed for about twelve hours before use. After the clear coat was printed and dried sufficiently (dry enough to deposit the next layer without floating or changing the clear coat), an effect layer plate with the pattern shown in Figure 28 was printed with Green Ink #1 onto the clear coat.

Once the print was dry, approximately 100 microliters of the RMMs listed in Table D were dosed at ambient temperature into the printed front song mold. RMM was prepared by dissolving the reactive components in BAGE in the relative amounts listed in Table D to make a 52:48 (w/w) solution of reactive components to diluent. Next, the base curve mold is placed on top of the front curve mold. The pallet containing the mold assembly is then moved into a curing tunnel at 60 to 70°C. The time between dosing the RMM and entering the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the print without smearing. The RMM was photopolymerized around the printed layer using a 420nm LED positioned above the plate to achieve an intensity of 5 mW/ ^cm2 for approximately 4 minutes.

With most of the lenses sticking to the FC and releasing from the BC, the printed lenses were partially demolded by immersing the lenses in DIW containing about 800 ppm Tween 80 at 70°C for about one hour , followed by re-equilibration in the packaging solution at 70°C for one hour to hydrate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the exact lens release procedure may vary depending on the lens formulation, mold material. The objective of the lens release procedure was to release all lenses without defects and transition from diluent swelled mesh to packaging solution swelled hydrogel. Lenses were transferred to aluminum foil heat-sealed blister packs and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 124°C for about 18 minutes. When the lens was placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, a pixie effect was observed by moving the pattern over the white sclera of the artificial eye. The pattern appears to fuse into the sclera. Table D. Reactive Monomer Mixtures components weight percentage HEMA 95 MAA 2 EGDMA 0.8 TMPTMA 0.08 Norbloc 1 Blue-HEMA 0.02 Omnirad 1700 1.1 Σ RMM components 100 Thinner BAGE diluent concentration 48 Example 2

Printed contact lenses are manufactured on an automated pilot manufacturing line capable of pad printing and manufacturing contact lenses, where the oxygen level is maintained between 0.5% and 5%. Front and base curve molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. For example, the front curve mold is made of polystyrene and the base curve mold is made of Zeonor. The front and base curve molds were degassed for about twelve hours before use. After the clear coat was printed and dried sufficiently (dry enough to deposit the next layer without floating or changing the clear coat), an effect layer plate with the pattern shown in Figure 29 was printed using Green Ink #6 onto the clear coat.

Once the print was dry, approximately 100 microliters of the RMMs listed in Table D were dosed at ambient temperature into the printed front song mold. RMM was prepared by dissolving the reactive components in BAGE in the relative amounts listed in Table D to make a 52:48 (w/w) solution of reactive components to diluent. Next, the base curve mold is placed on top of the front curve mold. The pallet containing the mold assembly is then moved into a curing tunnel at 60 to 70°C. The time between dosing the RMM and entering the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the print without smearing. The RMM was photopolymerized around the printed layer using a 420nm LED positioned above the plate to achieve an intensity of 5 mW/ ^cm2 for approximately 4 minutes.

With most of the lenses sticking to the FC and releasing from the BC, the printed lenses were partially demolded by immersing the lenses in DIW containing about 800 ppm Tween 80 at 70°C for about one hour , followed by re-equilibration in the packaging solution at 70°C for one hour to hydrate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the exact lens release procedure may vary depending on the lens formulation, mold material. The objective of the lens release procedure was to release all lenses without defects and transition from diluent swelled mesh to packaging solution swelled hydrogel. Lenses were transferred to aluminum foil heat-sealed blister packs and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 124°C for about 18 minutes. When the lens was placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, the sprite effect was observed by moving the pattern over the white sclera of the artificial eye. The pattern appears to fuse into the sclera. Example 3

Printed contact lenses are manufactured on an automated pilot manufacturing line capable of pad printing and manufacturing contact lenses, where the oxygen level is maintained between 0.5% and 5%. Front and base curve molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. For example, the front curve mold is made of polystyrene and the base curve mold is made of Zeonor. The front and base curve molds were degassed for about twelve hours before use. After the clear coat was printed and sufficiently dry (dry enough to deposit the next layer without lifting or changing the clear coat), an effect layer plate gold ink #4 with the pattern shown in Figure 30A was printed on the Clear coat on. After the effect layer pattern is sufficiently dry (dry enough to deposit the next layer without lifting or replacing the first print layer), an additional effect layer plate with the pattern shown in Figure 30B is printed to clear using Bronze Ink #5. over the clear coat to create the cosmetic pattern shown in Figure 30C.

Once the print was dry, approximately 100 microliters of the RMMs listed in Table D were dosed at ambient temperature into the printed front song mold. RMM was prepared by dissolving the reactive components in BAGE in the relative amounts listed in Table D to make a 52:48 (w/w) solution of reactive components to diluent. Next, the base curve mold is placed on top of the front curve mold. The pallet containing the mold assembly is then moved into a curing tunnel at 60 to 70°C. The time between dosing the RMM and entering the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the print without smearing. The RMM was photopolymerized around the printed layer using a 420nm LED positioned above the plate to achieve an intensity of 5 mW/ ^cm2 for approximately 4 minutes.

With most of the lenses sticking to the FC and releasing from the BC, the printed lenses were partially demolded by immersing the lenses in DIW containing about 800 ppm Tween 80 at 70°C for about one hour , followed by re-equilibration in the packaging solution at 70°C for one hour to hydrate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the exact lens release procedure may vary depending on the lens formulation, mold material. The objective of the lens release procedure was to release all lenses without defects and transition from diluent swelled mesh to packaging solution swelled hydrogel. Lenses were transferred to aluminum foil heat-sealed blister packs and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 124°C for about 18 minutes. When the lens was placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, the sprite effect was observed by moving the pattern over the white sclera of the artificial eye. The pattern appears to fuse into the sclera. Example 4

Printed contact lenses are manufactured on an automated pilot manufacturing line capable of pad printing and manufacturing contact lenses, where the oxygen level is maintained between 0.5% and 5%. Front and base curve molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. For example, the front curve mold is made of polystyrene and the base curve mold is made of Zeonor. The front and base curve molds were degassed for about twelve hours before use. After the clear coat was printed and dried sufficiently (dry enough to deposit the next layer without floating or changing the clear coat), an effect layer plate red ink #2 with the pattern shown in Figure 31A was printed on Clear coat on. After the effect layer pattern was sufficiently dry (dry enough to deposit the next layer without lifting or replacing the first print layer), an additional effect layer plate with the pattern shown in Figure 31B was printed using Green Ink #1. After the effect layer pattern is sufficiently dry (dry enough to deposit the next layer without lifting or replacing the first printed layer), a third effect layer plate with the pattern shown in Figure 31C is printed using blue ink #3, thereby Create the cosmetic pattern shown in Figure 31D.

Once the print was dry, approximately 100 microliters of the RMMs listed in Table D were dosed at ambient temperature into the printed front song mold. RMM was prepared by dissolving the reactive components in BAGE in the relative amounts listed in Table D to make a 52:48 (w/w) solution of reactive components to diluent. Next, the base curve mold is placed on top of the front curve mold. The pallet containing the mold assembly is then moved into a curing tunnel at 60 to 70°C. The time between dosing the RMM and entering the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the print without smearing. The RMM was photopolymerized around the printed layer using a 420nm LED positioned above the plate to achieve an intensity of 5 mW/ ^cm2 for approximately 4 minutes.

With most of the lenses sticking to the FC and releasing from the BC, the printed lenses were partially demolded by immersing the lenses in DIW containing about 800 ppm Tween 80 at 70°C for about one hour , followed by re-equilibration in the packaging solution at 70°C for one hour to hydrate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the exact lens release procedure may vary depending on the lens formulation, mold material. The objective of the lens release procedure was to release all lenses without defects and transition from diluent swelled mesh to packaging solution swelled hydrogel. Lenses were transferred to aluminum foil heat-sealed blister packs and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 124°C for about 18 minutes. When the lens was placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, the sprite effect was observed by moving the pattern over the white sclera of the artificial eye. The pattern appears to fuse into the sclera. Examples 5 to 15

Printed contact lenses were manufactured in a glove box where the oxygen level was maintained between 0.5% and 5%. The ring clear coat was printed onto the front curve mold using a lab scale pad printer. Front and base curve molds can be made from any polymer; however, homopolymers, copolymers, and blends of PS, PP, TT, and Z are preferred. Front and base curve molds are generally degassed for about twelve hours before use. After the clear coat had dried, an effect layer plate with the pattern shown in Figure 28 was printed onto the clear coat using Ink #7 with a total pigment concentration of 5.01 weight percent.

Once the print was dry, approximately 100 microliters of the RMMs listed in Table D were dosed at ambient temperature into the printed front song mold. RMM was prepared by dissolving the reactive components in BAGE in the relative amounts listed in Table D to make a 52:48 (w/w) solution of reactive components to diluent. Next, the base curve mold is placed on top of the front curve mold. The pallet containing the mold assembly is then moved into a curing tunnel at 60 to 70°C. The time between dosing the RMM and entering the curing chamber is controlled to allow the RMM to diffuse into the print without smearing. The RMM was photopolymerized around the printed layer using a 420nm LED positioned above the plate to achieve an intensity of 5 mW/ ^cm2 for approximately 4 minutes.

With most of the lenses sticking to the FC and releasing from the BC, the printed lenses were partially demolded by immersing the lenses in DIW containing about 800 ppm Tween 80 at 70°C for about one hour , followed by re-equilibration in the packaging solution at 70°C for one hour to hydrate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the exact lens release procedure may vary depending on the lens formulation, mold material. The objective of the lens release procedure was to release all lenses without defects and transition from diluent swelled mesh to packaging solution swelled hydrogel. Lenses were transferred to vials and subsequently sterilized by autoclaving at 122°C for 30 minutes. Examples 6 to 15

Example 5 was repeated except that Ink #7 was replaced by Ink #8 through Ink #17. Tables B and C also list the inks used in each example.

In Examples 13 to 15 in which the ink contained only mica pigments between twenty and forty percent by weight, when the lens of the present invention was placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, the white The sprite effect was observed by moving the pattern over the sclera. The pattern appears to fuse into the sclera. The pattern of Example 13 made using 40 weight percent Flamenco Sparkle Gold mica ink was somewhat visible, although the sprite effect was still substantially functional. Similarly, the patterns of Examples 9 and 10, where the ink contained 0.5 weight percent iron oxide black in addition to the mica pigment, were also somewhat visible, although the sprite effect was still substantially operational. In all other Examples 7-8 and 11-12, when the inventive lens was placed on an artificial eye with a brown iris, a sprite effect was observed by moving the pattern over the white sclera of the artificial eye. The pattern appears to fuse into the sclera.

100: Non-Cosmetic Contact Lenses/Contact Lenses 102: Optical zone 104: Surrounding area 200: Cosmetic Contact Lenses/Contact Lenses 201: points 202: Central area 203: point 204: center part 206: Peripheral part 300: Cosmetic contact lenses 301: point 302: Central area 303: point 304: central part 306: Peripheral part 308: limbal ring 400: Cosmetic contact lenses 402: central area 404: central part 406: Peripheral part 408: limbal ring 410: round 412: round 500: Cosmetic Contact Lenses/Contact Lenses 502: Central area 504: central part 506: Peripheral part 508: limbal ring 510: random dot or shape 600: contact lenses 602: limbal ring 604: innermost boundary 606: Spokes 608:Interval 610: area 612: Boundary 700: contact lenses 702: Boundary 704: limbal ring 706: Tapered spokes 708: area 800: contact lenses 802: innermost boundary 804: limbal ring 806: Spokes 808: Spokes 810: area 900: contact lenses 902: Spokes 904: Spokes 906: cluster 908: innermost radius 910: limbal ring 1000: contact lenses 1002: limbal ring 1004: Spokes 1100: contact lenses 1102: random dot 1104: Spokes 1106: limbal ring 1200: contact lenses 1202: small point 1204: Spokes 1206: limbal ring 1300: contact lenses 1302: limbal ring 1304: Spokes 1306: Spokes 1308: Pupil part 1400: Limbal Design Graphics/Design Graphics 1402: Translucent annular zone/circular zone/translucent zone 1404: innermost boundary 1406: main structure/hair structure/prominent structure 1408: Branching/Outstanding Structures 1410: hair-like structure/prominent structure 1412: center part 1420: Inner Effect Design Graphics/Design Graphics 1422: Wavy ring structure 1424: rounded slot/slot 1426: angle peak 1428: negative space 1430: Essentially elliptical structure 1432: center part 1440: External Effects Design Graphics/Design Graphics 1442: translucent annular belt / annular belt 1444: innermost border 1446: structure 1448: enclosed space 1450: line 1452: comb structure 1454: center part 1460: Cosmetic contact lenses 1500: Limbal Design Graphics/Design Graphics/Limbal Graphics 1502: Translucent annular zone/circular zone/opaque zone 1504: innermost border 1506: hair-like structure/main structure/prominent structure 1508: Branching/Outstanding Structures 1510: hair-like structure/prominent structure 1512: center part 1520: Inner Effect Design Graphics/Inner Effect Graphics 1522: Wavy ring structure 1524: rounded slot/slot 1526: angle peak 1528: negative space 1530: Oval structure 1532: center part 1540: Outer Effect Design Graphics/Outer Effect Graphics/Outer Layer Design Graphics 1542: translucent annular zone / opaque annular zone 1544: innermost border 1546: structure 1548: enclosed space 1550: line 1552: Comb structure 1554: Center Part/Outer Effect Graphics 1560: Cosmetic contact lenses 1600: Limbal Design Graphics/Design Graphics/Limbal Effect Graphics Layer 1602: ring belt 1604: innermost border 1606: main structure/hair structure/prominent structure 1608: Branching/Outstanding Structures 1610: branch-like structure/prominent structure 1612: center part 1620: External Effects Design Graphics 1622: ring belt 1624: innermost border 1626: Structures or protrusions/elements 1628: Enclosed space/element 1630: Line/Component 1632: branch 1634: branch 1636: Comb structure 1638: center part 1640: Internal Effects Design Graphics / Internal Effects Graphics 1642: ring belt 1644: innermost border 1646: Structures or protrusions 1648: Inconsistent surfaces 1650: center part 1660: Cosmetic contact lenses 1700: Limbal Design Graphics/Design Graphics 1702: ring belt 1704: innermost border 1706:Protruding structures/geometric structures/protrusions 1708:Protruding structures/geometric structures/protrusions 1710: center part 1720: Outer Effect Design Graphics/Outer Effect Graphics/Outer Layer Design Graphics/Design Graphics 1722: ring belt 1724: innermost border 1726: Structures or protrusions/elements 1728: Enclosed Space/Component 1730: Line/Component 1732: branch 1734: branch 1736: Comb structure 1738: Central part 1740: Inner Effect Design Graphics/Inner Effect Graphics/Design Graphics 1742: Ring belt 1744: Innermost Boundary 1746: Structures or protrusions 1748: Inconsistent surfaces 1750: center part 1760: Cosmetic contact lenses 1800: Limbal Design Graphics / Limbal Graphics / Graphics / Design Graphics 1802: translucent annular belt 1804: Innermost Boundary 1806: hair-like structures/prominent structures 1808: Hair-like structures/Prominent structures 1810: Structure / Protruding Structure 1812: Centerpiece 1820: Inner Effect Design Graphics/Inner Effect Graphics/Design Graphics 1822: dotted/dotted line 1824: Centerpiece 1840: Outer Effect Design Graphics/Outer Layer Design Graphics/Outer Effect Graphics/Design Graphics 1842: Ring belt 1844: Innermost Boundary 1846: Structure 1848: Enclosed Space 1850: line 1852: Comb structure 1854: Centerpiece 1860: Cosmetic contact lenses 1901: Printing plates 1902: step 1903: Plate holes 1904: steps 1905: Cup 1906: steps 1908: steps 1910: steps 1912: steps 1914: steps 2002: steps 2004: steps 2006: steps 2008: steps 2010: steps 2012: steps 2014: steps 2016: steps 2102: clear base 2104: effect layer 2106: Main lens material 2200: printing plate 2202: The first circular segment 2204: OPTICAL AREA OPENING 2206: Transition section 2302: clear base 2304: Effect layer and/or pigment printing layer/pigment layer 2306: Main lens material 2308: Central optical zone/opening 2310: Transition zone 2400: Cosmetic contact lenses 2402: bright sclera area 2500: contact lenses 2502: limbal ring/limbal ring area 2504: innermost border 2506: Spokes 2508:Interval 2510: area 2512: innermost border/tapered spoke border 2514: pearlescent pigment 2600: Effect design drawing 2602: pearlescent pigment

The aforementioned and other features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following more specific description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, as shown in the accompanying drawings. [Fig. 1] is a plan view of an exemplary non-cosmetic contact lens. [Fig. 2] is a plan view of a first exemplary cosmetic contact lens. [Fig. 3] is a plan view of a second exemplary cosmetic contact lens. [Fig. 4] is a plan view of a third exemplary cosmetic contact lens. [Fig. 5] is a plan view of a fourth exemplary cosmetic contact lens. [FIG. 6] is a plan view of the first exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 7] is a plan view of a second exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 8] is a plan view of a third exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 9] is a plan view of a fourth exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 10] is a plan view of a fifth exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 11] is a plan view of a sixth exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 12] is a plan view of a seventh exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 13] is a plane view of an eighth exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern decorative contact lens. [FIG. 14A] is a plan view of a first exemplary limbal design according to the present invention. [FIG. 14B] is a plan view of a first exemplary internal effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 14C] is a plan view of a first exemplary external effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 14D] is a plan view of a first exemplary cosmetic contact lens including one of the three design figures of FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14C according to the present invention. [FIG. 15A] is a plan view of a second exemplary limbal design according to the present invention. [FIG. 15B] is a plan view of a second exemplary internal effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 15C] is a plan view of a second exemplary external effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 15D] is a plan view of a second exemplary cosmetic contact lens including one of the three design figures of FIG. 15A, FIG. 15B, and FIG. 15C according to the present invention. [FIG. 16A] is a plan view of a third exemplary limbal design according to the present invention. [FIG. 16B] is a plan view of a third exemplary external effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 16C] is a plan view of a third exemplary internal effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 16D] is a plan view of a third exemplary cosmetic contact lens including one of the three design figures of FIG. 16A, FIG. 16B, and FIG. 16C according to the present invention. [FIG. 17A] is a plan view of a fourth exemplary limbal design according to the present invention. [FIG. 17B] is a plan view of a fourth exemplary external effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 17C] is a plan view of a fourth exemplary internal effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 17D] is a plan view of a fourth exemplary cosmetic contact lens including one of the three design figures of FIG. 17A, FIG. 17B, and FIG. 17C according to the present invention. [FIG. 18A] is a plan view of a fifth exemplary limbal design according to the present invention. [FIG. 18B] is a plan view of a fifth exemplary internal effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 18C] is a plan view of a fifth exemplary external effect design figure according to the present invention. [FIG. 18D] is a plane view of a fifth exemplary cosmetic contact lens including the three design figures of FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14C according to the present invention. [Fig. 19] is a schematic representative diagram of a general pad printing procedure. [Fig. 20] is a schematic representation of a more detailed pad printing procedure. [FIG. 21] is a schematic representation of the layers comprising an exemplary contact lens. [Fig. 22] is a schematic representation of an exemplary clear base printing plate according to the present invention. [FIG. 22A] is an exploded view of sections of the clear base printing plate according to the present invention. [FIG. 22B] is an exploded sectional view of a clear base printing plate according to the present invention. [ Fig. 23 ] is a schematic representation of layers comprising a cosmetic contact lens having a ring-shaped clear base layer according to the present invention. [FIG. 24] is a schematic representation of a cosmetic contact lens having a pearlescent pigment bright-colored sclera according to the present invention. [ FIG. 25 ] is a plan view of an exemplary limbal ring/spoke pattern cosmetic contact lens having a mica-based pearlescent pigment in the limbal portion according to the present invention. [FIG. 26] is a plan view of an exemplary effect design including an effect design of mica-based pearlescent pigments corresponding to an iris area of a wearer's eye according to the present invention. [Figure 27] is a graphic illustration of the improved cosmetic effect that varies with the opacity of the cosmetic pattern [Fig. 28] is the decoration pattern used in Example 1. [Fig. 29] is the decorative pattern used in Example 2. [Fig. 30A] is an effect layer, [Fig. 30B] is another effect layer, and [Fig. 30C] is an overall decoration pattern used in Example 3. [Fig. 31A] is an effect layer, [Fig. 31B] is another effect layer, [Fig. 31C] is yet another effect layer, and [Fig. 31D] is the overall decoration pattern used in example 4.

100: Non-Cosmetic Contact Lenses/Contact Lenses

102: Optical zone

104: Surrounding area

Claims (27)

An eye enhancement contact lens comprising a curved polymeric lens having at least one printed layer that visually alters to a viewer a pattern of the cosmetic appearance of the iris and limbus of an eye, wherein The pattern contains a special effect pigment in a sufficient concentration such that when the pattern is positioned over the sclera, a viewer is less likely to move due to placement on the eye or normal lens movement than the same pattern without the special effect pigment The pattern can be seen according to the size of the iris, thereby providing a more natural appearance. The eye enhancement contact lens of claim 1, wherein the pattern is a substantially annular configuration. The eye enhancement contact lens according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the special effect pigments include muscovite mica, synthetic fluorphlogopite, synthetic aluminum oxides, borosilicate Borosilicates, calcium aluminum borosilicates, silicon dioxide platelets, metal oxide coated muscovite mica, metal oxide coated synthetic fluorophlogite mica (metal oxide coated synthetic fluorophologopite), metal oxide coated synthetic aluminum oxides (metal oxide coated synthetic aluminum oxides), metal oxide coated borosilicates (metal oxide coated borosilicates), metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicate ( metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicates), metal oxide coated silicon dioxide platelets, and combinations thereof. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a colorant, the pattern being made with the colorant. The eye enhancement contact lens of claim 4, wherein the colorant comprises metal oxide pigments, organic dyes, cholesteric liquid crystals, and combinations thereof. The eye enhancement contact lens of claim 5, wherein the metal oxide pigment comprises iron oxide, chromium oxide, titanium dioxide, and combinations thereof. The eye-enhancing contact lens according to claim 5, wherein the organic dye comprises phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, carbazole violet, vat orange 1 , and combinations thereof. 8. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the special effect pigments have varying concentrations within the pattern. 8. The eye enhancement contact lens of claim 8, wherein the special effect pigment is more concentrated in an outermost periphery of the pattern. The eye enhancement contact lens of claim 9, wherein the outermost periphery represents from about 1% to about 40% of the annular width of the pattern. The eye enhancement contact lens of claim 10, wherein the outermost periphery represents from about 5% to about 30% of the annular width of the pattern. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the opacity of the cosmetic pattern exhibits an opacity of: 30 percent or less; 25 percent or less; 20 percent or less; 15 percent or less; 10 percent or less; or 5 percent or less. An ink for making an eye-enhancing contact lens, the ink comprising: a) a special effect pigment; and b) a solvent. The ink as claimed in claim 13, wherein the special effect pigments include muscovite, synthetic fluorphlogopite, synthetic alumina, borosilicate, calcium aluminum borosilicate, silica sheet, metal oxide coated muscovite , metal oxide coated synthetic fluorophlogite, metal oxide coated synthetic alumina, metal oxide coated borosilicate, metal coated calcium aluminum borosilicate, metal oxide coated silicon dioxide sheet, and its combination. The ink according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the concentration of the special effect pigment is between 0.01% by weight and 50% by weight. The ink as claimed in claim 15, wherein the concentration of the special effect pigment is between 0.5% by weight and 40% by weight. The ink as claimed in claim 16, wherein the concentration of the special effect pigment is between 5% by weight and 30% by weight. The ink according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising a colorant. The ink according to claim 18, wherein the colorant comprises metal oxide pigments, organic dyes, and combinations thereof. The ink according to claim 19, wherein the metal oxide pigment comprises iron oxide, chromium oxide, titanium dioxide, and combinations thereof. The ink according to claim 19, wherein the organic dye comprises phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, carbazole violet, vat orange 1, and combinations thereof. The ink according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the colorant concentration is between 0.01% by weight and 27% by weight. The ink as claimed in claim 22, wherein the concentration of the colorant is between 0.1% by weight and 10% by weight. The ink as claimed in claim 23, wherein the concentration of the colorant is between 0.1% by weight and 5% by weight. An eye enhancement contact lens made of the ink according to any one of claims 13-24. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of claims 1 to 12, 25, wherein the eye enhancement contact lens is circular. 25. The eye enhancement contact lens of any one of claims 1 to 12, 25, wherein the eye enhancement contact lens is non-circular.

Images