Digitized mini optofluidic element and its application to ophthalmic lenses for presbyopia correction

Using the internally placed elastic membrane and multi-chamber configuration, we designed a digitized mini optofluidic element for fast switching between refractive and diffractive states of preset optical powers. Relief surface was used in the diffractive state. We applied finite element analysis to establish membrane mechanical characteristics for switching at the force level produced by the ocular elements such as ciliary muscle or lower eyelid at eye downgaze. The prototypes were made to demonstrate proof-of-concept. Membrane conformance to the diffractive grooves and imaging quality were demonstrated. The analysis supported switching under the force level exerted by the ocular elements supporting the digitized optofluidic element potential for presbyopia correction by ophthalmic lenses.