Claims:We Claim:
1. A coating (10a) for an optical lens (11), the coating (10a) comprising:
a primer coat layer (13) deposited on a surface of the optical lens (10);
a hard coat layer (1) deposited on the primer coat layer (13);
a plurality of layers (2-10) of a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material of pre-defined thickness deposited alternatively on the hard coat layer (13),
wherein, the plurality of layers (2-10) includes at least two consecutive layers (4 and 5) of the low refractive index material of thickness ranging from 102 nm to 132 nm at a substantially central portion of the coating (10a) to enhance wear resistance of the optical lens (10);
at least one ion pre-etched layer (12) deposited over the plurality of layers (2-10) of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material.

2. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein number of the plurality of layers (2-10) deposited on the optical lens (10) ranges from 10 layers to 14 layers.

3. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high refractive index material is at least one of oxides of tantalum, oxides of zirconium and oxides of indium tin.

4. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein refractive index of the high refractive index material is more than or equal to 2.0.

5. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the low refractive index material is at least one of oxides of silicon.

6. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the refractive index of the low refractive index material is less than or equal to 1.5.

7. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material is ion-assisted.

8. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a first layer (2) of the low refractive index material deposited on the hard coat layer (1), and thickness of the first layer (2) ranges from 7nm to 8nm.

9. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a second layer (3) of high refractive index material, and thickness of the second layer ranges (2) from 3nm to 4nm.

10. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a third layer (4) of the low refractive index material, and thickness of the third layer (4) ranges from 102nm to 105nm.

11. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a fourth layer (5) of low refractive index material, and thickness of the fourth (5) layer ranges from 128nm to 132nm.

12. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a fifth layer (6) of high refractive index material, and thickness of the fifth layer (6) ranges from 30nm to 32nm.

13. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a sixth layer (7) of low refractive index material, and thickness of the sixth layer (7) ranges from 30nm to 33nm.

14. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a seventh layer (8) of high refractive index material, and thickness of the seventh layer (8) ranges from 45nm to 47nm.

15. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes an eighth layer (9) of high refractive index, material, and thickness of the eighth layer (9) ranges from 6nm to 8nm.

16. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) includes a ninth layer (10) of low refractive index material and thickness of the ninth layer (10) ranges from 81nm to 84nm.

17. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a layer of oleophobic material (14) of thickness ranging from 24nm to 26nm deposited on the optical lens (11), wherein the layer of oleophobic material (11) is deposited over the at least one ion pre-etched layer (12).

18. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1 and 17, wherein the ion-pre-etched layer (12) and the layer of oleophobic material (14) possess antiviral and antibacterial properties.

19. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one hard coat layer (13) is made of an anti-scratch lacquer.

20. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coating (10a) is deposited on the optical lens (10) by physical vapor deposition technique.

21. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a residual color layer deposited on the optical lens (11).

22. The coating (10a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coating (10a) is deposited on the optical lens (10) made of at least one of transparent glass and transparent polymeric material.

23. An optical article, comprising:
an optical lens (11);
a coating (10a) for the optical lens (11), the coating (10a) comprising:
a primer coat layer (13) deposited on a surface of the optical lens (10)
a hard coat layer (1) deposited on the primer coat layer (13);
a plurality of layers (2-10) of a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material of pre-defined thickness deposited alternatively on the hard coat layer (13), wherein the plurality of layers (2-10) comprises:
a first layer (2) of the low refractive index material deposited on the hard coat later (1), and thickness of the first layer (2) ranges from 7nm to 8nm;
a second layer (3) of high refractive index material, and thickness of the second layer ranges (2) from 3nm to 4nm;
a third layer (4) of the low refractive index material, and thickness of the third layer (4) ranges from 102nm to 105nm;
a fourth layer (5) of low refractive index material, and thickness of the fourth (5) layer ranges from 128nm to 132nm;
a fifth layer (6) of high refractive index material, and thickness of the fifth layer (6) ranges from 30nm to 32nm;
a sixth layer (7) of low refractive index material, and thickness of the sixth layer (7) ranges from 30nm to 33nm;
a seventh layer (8) of high refractive index material, and thickness of the seventh layer (8) ranges from 45nm to 47nm;
an eighth layer (9) of high refractive index, material and thickness of the eighth layer (9) ranges from 6nm to 8nm;
a ninth layer (10) of low refractive index material and thickness of the ninth layer (10) ranges from 81nm to 84nm;
at least one ion pre-etched layer (12) deposited over the plurality of layers (2-10) of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material
a layer of oleophobic material (14) of thickness ranging from 24nm to 26nm deposited on the optical lens (11), wherein the layer of oleophobic material (11) is deposited over the at least one ion pre-etched layer (12); and
wherein, the thickness of the consecutive layers provisioned at the third layer (4) and the fourth layer (5) of the coating enhances the wear resistance of the optical article.

24. The optical article as claimed in claim 23, wherein the low refractive index material is at least one of oxides of silicon and the refractive index of the low refractive index material is less than or equal to 1.5.

25. The optical article as claimed in claim 23, wherein the high refractive index material is at least one of oxides of tantalum, oxides of zirconium and oxides of indium tin.

26. The optical article as claimed in claim 23, wherein the refractive index of the high refractive index material is more than or equal to 2.0.

27. The optical article as claimed in claim 23, wherein the coating (10a) is deposited on the optical lens (10) by physical vapor deposition technique.

28. The optical article as claimed in claim 23 comprises a residual color layer deposited on the optical lens (11).
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD:
The present disclosure relates to the field of optics. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to an optical article. Further embodiments of the present disclosure disclose the optical article such as optical lens deposited with a coating.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE:

Generally, eye wares such as contact lenses or glasses are medical devices that are placed in contact with the ocular surface of eye and are used for vision correction, aesthetic purposes, and to treat ocular pathologies. Substances and materials can be deposited onto a contact lens' surface to improve the biocompatibility of the lens and therefore improve the interaction of the lens with the ocular region. It is a common practice to coat at least one main surface of a lens substrate (contact lens), such as an ophthalmic lens or lens blank, with several coatings for imparting to the finished lens, additional or improved optical or mechanical properties. These coatings are designated in general as functional coatings. Thus, a coat on at least one main surface of a lens substrate, typically made of an organic glass material, with successively, starting from the surface of the lens substrate, an impact-resistant coating (impact-resistant primer), an abrasion- and/or scratch-resistant coating (hard coat), an anti-reflection coating or a mirror coating and, optionally, an anti-fouling top coat are commonly applied on the lens.

Conventional antireflective coatings are designed and optimized to reduce reflection on the lens surface in the visible region, typically within the spectrum range of 380 nm to 780 nm. They are also designed, especially in the case of an ophthalmic lens, to prevent formation of annoying reflections to the wearer and his interlocutors. A reflective coating achieves the opposite effect, that is, it increases the reflection of light rays. Such a type of coating is used, for example, to obtain a mirror effect in solar lenses. The mean light reflection factor in the visible region on the front and/or rear faces of a lens is lower than or equal to 2.5%. The conventional antireflective coatings may be designed to provide a high reflection in the ultraviolet band (from 280 to 380 nm) when they are positioned on the front side of the lens, but may be designed to be antireflective in those wavelengths when they are positioned on the backside (rear face) of the lens in order to protect against UV reflection from the back side of the lens.

In recent past, due to the increasing “health” requirement, near infrared (NIR) (780- 1400 nm) and/or blue light protection (420 - 450 nm) are additionally required for antireflective coatings, especially in applications such as ophthalmic lens. Many studies suggest that high energy blue light has photo-toxic effects on the eye, and especially on the retina. Over exposure to blue light, particularly the phototoxic blue light with wavelength shorter than 450 nm, can cause disruption. Phototoxic blue light is considered as an important factor for age-related macular degradation (AMD). Prolonged exposure to phototoxic blue light may cause retinal damage. Extensive use (>3-4 hours per day) of blue-light emitting digital devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, etc.) has been reported as one of the main reason for experiencing eye fatigue, blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches.

Intensive NIR might also be harmful to retina. In addition, it has been reported that NIR could be one of the potential causes for dry eyes and cataracts. Other coatings such as a polarized coating, a photochromic, an electrochromic or a dyeing coating may also be applied onto one or both surfaces of the lens substrate. Especially, electrochromic coatings may be used in an optical article to provide certain benefits, including the blocking of certain wavelengths of visible or ultraviolet light. However, the conventional coatings that are deposited on the optical article do not serve the purpose of wear resistance. The conventional optical articles over a period of time wear out due to indecorous maintenance by the wearer.

The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or other such limitations associated with the conventional systems.

The information disclosed in this background of the disclosure section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

One or more shortcomings of the conventional method are overcome by process as claimed and additional advantages are provided through the provision of processes as claimed in the present disclosure.

Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

In one non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, a coating for an optical lens is disclosed. The coating includes a primer coat layer deposited on a surface of the optical lens. A hard coat layer deposited on the primer coat layer. A plurality of layers of a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material of pre-defined thickness is deposited alternatively on the hard coat layer. The plurality of layers includes at least two consecutive layers of the low refractive index material of thickness ranging from 102nm to 132nm at a substantially central portion of the coating to enhance wear resistance of the optical lens. The coating further includes at least one ion pre-etched layer deposited over the plurality of layers of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, number of the plurality of layers deposited on the optical lens ranges from 10 layers to 12 layers.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the high refractive index material is at least one of oxides of tantalum, oxides of zirconium and oxides of indium tin. The refractive index of the high refractive index material is more than or equal to 2.0

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the low refractive index material is at least one of oxides of silicon. The refractive index number of the low refractive index material is less than or equal to 1.5.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material is ion-assisted.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a first layer of the low refractive index material. The thickness of the first layer ranges from 7nm to 8nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a second layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the second layer ranges from 3nm to 4nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a third layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the third layer ranges from 102nm to 105nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a fourth layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the fourth layer ranges from 128nm to 132nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a fifth layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the fifth layer ranges from 30nm to 32nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a sixth layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the sixth layer ranges from 30nm to 30nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a seventh layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the seventh layer ranges from 45nm to 47nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes an eighth layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the eighth-layer ranges from 6nm to 8nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of layers includes a ninth layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the ninth layer ranges from 81nm to 84nm.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, a layer of oleophobic material of thickness ranging from 24nm to 26nm deposited on the optical lens. The layer of oleophobic material is deposited over the at least one ion pre-etched layer.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, at least one hard coat layer is made of an anti-scratch lacquer.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the coating is deposited on the optical lens by physical vapor deposition technique.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, color of the residual color layer includes neutral color.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the coating is deposited on the optical lens made of at least one of transparent glass and transparent polymeric material.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, an optical article is disclosed. The optical article includes an optical lens. A coating is deposited on the optical lens. a coating for an optical lens is disclosed. The coating includes a primer coat layer deposited on a surface of the optical lens. A hard coat layer deposited on the primer coat layer. A plurality of layers of a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material of pre-defined thickness is deposited alternatively on the hard coat layer. The plurality of layers includes at least two consecutive layers of the low refractive index material of thickness ranging from 102nm to 132nm at a substantially central portion of the coating to enhance wear resistance of the optical lens. The plurality of layers includes a first layer of the low refractive index material. The thickness of the first layer ranges from 7nm to 8nm. The plurality of layers includes a second layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the second layer ranges from 3nm to 4nm. The plurality of layers includes a third layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the third layer ranges from 102nm to 105nm. The plurality of layers includes a fourth layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the fourth layer ranges from 128nm to 132nm. The plurality of layers includes a fifth layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the fifth layer ranges from 30nm to 32nm. The plurality of layers includes a sixth layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the sixth layer ranges from 30nm to 30nm. The plurality of layers includes a seventh layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the seventh layer ranges from 45nm to 47nm. The plurality of layers includes an eighth layer of high refractive index material. The thickness of the eighth-layer ranges from 6nm to 8nm. The plurality of layers includes a ninth layer of low refractive index material. The thickness of the ninth layer ranges from 81nm to 84nm. The coating further includes at least one ion pre-etched layer deposited over the plurality of layers of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material. A layer of oleophobic material of thickness ranging from 24nm to 26nm deposited on the optical lens, wherein the layer of oleophobic material is deposited over the at least one ion pre-etched layer. The layer of oleophobic material of thickness ranging from 24nm to 26nm deposited on the optical thickness of the consecutive layers provisioned at the third layer and the fourth layer of the coating enhances the wear resistance of the optical article.

It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING FIGURES

The novel features and characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

FIG.1 is a schematic view of a coating deposited on an optical lens, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.2 is a graph depicting a coating spectrum analysis of the coating deposited on the optical lens of FIG.1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.3 to FIG.5 are tables depicting results for Bayer test conducted on the coating deposited on the optical lens.

The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent processes do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the disclosure, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make part of this disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure discloses an optical article such as but not limiting to an ophthalmic lens or a blank lens with a functional coating deposited on at least one surface of the lens. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating may be deposited on an eye side or an air side of the lens. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the coating may be deposited both on the eye side and the air side of the lens. In an embodiment, the optical article may be made of at least one of glass or polymeric material. The coating provided on the optical article ensures a fully anti-reflective spectrum in a wavelength range of 450nm to 700nm. Also, the optical article with the coating deposited on the at least one surface ensures glare-less vision in a random scattered light condition. The coating deposited on the optical article also ensures that blue light of wavelength up to 500nm is filtered effectively. In an embodiment, the coating deposited on the at least one surface of the optical article may enhance the wear resistance of the optical article. Also, the coating of the present disclosure possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties. Further, the coating of the present disclosure effectively filters the UV rays.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the coating deposited on the optical article may include plurality of layers. The plurality of layers of the coating may include a hard coat layer deposited on the at least one surface of the optical lens. In an embodiment, the hard coat layer may function as an anti-scratch layer for the optical lens. Further, the plurality of layers may include a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material of pre-defined thickness deposited alternatively on the hard coat layer. In an embodiment, the high refractive index material may be any one of group of oxides of tantalum, oxides of zirconium and oxides of indium tin. In some embodiments, the low refractive material may be made of oxides of silicon. However, the material mentioned herein used for low refractive index and high refractive index should not be construed as a limitation, as other materials may also be used. In another embodiment, the plurality of layers may include at least two consecutive layers of the low refractive index material. The thickness of the consecutive layers of low refractive index material may range from 102nm to 138nm. The consecutive layers of the thickness ranging from 102nm to 132nm enhances wear resistance of the optical article.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the specification, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that an system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or method. In other words, one or more elements in an assembly proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the assembly.

Henceforth, the present disclosure is explained with the help of one or more figures of exemplary embodiments. However, such exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limitation of the present disclosure.

The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIG.1 to FIG.5. In the figure, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs.

FIG.1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows a schematic view of a coating (10a) deposited on an optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the optical lens (11) may be a part of an optical article. In another embodiment, the optical lens (11) may be any one of an ophthalmic lens or a blank lens that may be used to treat defects in an ocular surface. In some embodiments, the optical lens (11) may be made of at least one of a glass or a polymeric material. However, the coating (10a) deposited on the optical lens (11) as disclosed hereinafter in the present disclosure should not be construed as a limitation to ophthalmic lens or blank lens, as the coating (10a) may be used in wide range of applications in the optic industry.

As shown in FIG.1, the coating (10a) may be deposited on at least one surface of the optical lens (11). For example, in case of optical lenses (11) such as the ophthalmic lens or the blank lens, the coating (10a) may be deposited on at least one of an air side of the optical lens (11) or an eye side of the optical lens (10). In an embodiment, the coating (10a) may be deposited on both the air side and eye side of the optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the coating (10a) deposited over the optical lens (11) may be a functional coating. Functional coating here may mean that the coating (10a) may be configured to perform plurality of functions such as filtering unwanted blue light or UV light that may be harmful to the ocular surfaces. Also, some of the other functions of the coating (10a) include provision of anti-reflectivity in the optical lens, glare-less vision, scratch resistance and wear resistance.

Further, the coating (10a) may include “n” number of layers deposited on the optical lens (11). In some embodiments, the number of layers deposited on the optical lens (11) may range from 10 layers to 14 layers. In an embodiment, the coating (10a) may include a primer coat layer (13) deposited on a surface of the optical lens (11). Once the primer coat layer (13) is deposited on the optical lens (11), a hard coat layer (1 deposited on the primer coat layer (13). The primer coat layer (13) may be configured to enhance the bonding of the hard coat layer (1) on the optical lens (11). The optical lens (11) may hereinafter be referred to as lens (11) and may be used alternatively. The hard coat layer (1) may be configured to act as an anti-scratch layer on the optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the material used for hard coat layer (13) may be an anti-scratch lacquer, but the present disclosure is not limited to only that material as hard-coat layer (13) and any other material that performs similar function may also be used. In another embodiment, the coating (10a) may include a plurality of layers (2-10) of a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material of pre-defined thickness. The plurality of layers (2-10) of the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material may be deposited on the hard coat layer (1). In some embodiments, the hard coat layer (1) may also be deposited between the plurality of layers (2-10) of high refractive index material and the low refractive index material. Depositing the hard coat layer (1) between the plurality of layers (2-10) of high refractive index and low refractive index material may further enhance the anti-scratch resistant property of the optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the high refractive index material used for depositing on the optical lens (11) may be at least one of group of oxides of tantalum, oxides of zirconium and oxides of indium tin. In some embodiments, the low refractive index material used for depositing on the optical lens (11) may be oxides of silicon. However, the high refractive index material and the low refractive index material disclosed above should not be construed as a limitation to the present disclosure, as materials such as magnesium difluoride, oxides of aluminum, oxides of yttrium, oxides of hafnium, oxides of niobium or combinations thereof can also be used. In some embodiments, refractive index number of the high refractive index material may be more than or equal to 2.0 and the refractive index of the low refractive index material may be less than or equal to 1.5. The term refractive index here means the ratio of velocity of light in vacuum to its velocity in the optical lens. In an embodiment, the plurality of layers (2 to 10) may be deposited on the optical lens (11) by means of at least one of physical vapor deposition (PVD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD), preferably PVD process.

In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of layers (2-10) of the coating (10a) may include a configuration that will be described hereinafter. However, such configuration of the plurality of layers (2-10) should not be construed as a limitation as the position, thickness, material used of each layer may be altered by a person skilled in the art to arrive at similar objectives of the present disclosure. The plurality of layers (2-10) of the coating (10a) includes a first layer (2) deposited on the hard coat layer (1). In an embodiment, the first layer (2) that is deposited may be of a low refractive index material. The refractive index of the first layer (1) may be less than 1.5 or equal to 1.5. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first layer (1) may range from 7nm to 8nm.

Further, a second layer (3) may be deposited over the first layer (2). The second layer (3) may be of high refractive index material and the refractive index of the second layer may be equal to 2.0 or more than 2.0. In an embodiment, the thickness of the second layer (2) may be ranging from 3nm to 4nm. In some embodiments, the hard coat layer (1) may be deposited between the first layer (1) and the second layer (2) to enhance the scratch resistance of the optical lens (11). Similar procedure of depositing a hard coat layer (1) in between the plurality of layers (2-10) may be followed for the subsequent layers deposited on the optical lens (11).

Further, the plurality of layers (2-10) of the coating (10a) may include a third layer (4) deposited on the second layer (3). In an embodiment, the third layer (4) that is deposited may be of a low refractive index material. The refractive index of the third layer (4) may be less than or equal to 1.5. In an embodiment, the thickness of the third layer (3) may range from 102nm to 105nm. In another embodiment, a consecutive layer of low refractive index material may be deposited over the second layer (3). In an embodiment, the third layer (4) and the fourth layer (5) may be the consecutive layers. The refractive index of the fourth layer (5) may be less than or equal to 1.5. In an embodiment, the thickness of the fourth layer (5) may range from 128nm to 132nm. In an embodiment, the thickness of the consecutive layers (4 and 5) of low refractive index material may aid in enhancing the wear resistance of the optical lens (11). A fifth layer (6) of high refractive index may then be deposited over the fourth layer (4). The thickness of the fifth layer (6) may range from 30nm to 32nm. In an embodiment, the refractive index of the fifth layer (6) may be more than 2.0 or equal to 2.0. In some embodiments, the plurality of coating includes a sixth layer (7) that may be deposited over the fifth layer (6). The sixth layer (7) deposited may be of low refractive index material of refractive index less than or equal to 1.5. The thickness of the sixth layer (7) may range from 30nm to 33nm.

In an embodiment, a layer of high refractive index material of refractive index more than or equal to 2.0 is deposited on the sixth layer (7). The layer that is deposited over the sixth layer may be of thickness ranging from 45nm to 47nm and this layer may be denoted as seventh layer (8) in the plurality of layers. Further, an intermittent layer made of oxides of indium tin may be deposited over the seventh layer (7). The intermittent layer may be the eighth layer (9) in the plurality of layers (2-10) deposited on the optical lens (10). The thickness of the intermittent layer may range from 6nm to 8nm. In an embodiment, the intermittent layer may be configured to provide antistatic property to the optical lens (10). The antistatic property of the intermittent layer may ensure that there is minimum or no static electricity build-up on the optical lens (11). Refractive index of the intermittent layer or the eighth layer (9) may be more than or equal to 2.0. In another embodiment, a ninth layer (10) of low refractive index material may be deposited on the eighth layer (8). The refractive index of the ninth layer (10) may be less than or equal to 1.5. In some embodiments, the thickness of the ninth layer (10) may range from 81nm to 84nm.

Further, at least one ion pre-etched layer (12) may be deposited over the ninth layer (10) of the plurality of layers (2-10). The ion pre-etched layer (12) may be applied through ion source by passing oxygen and argon gas through the source for enhancing bonding between the plurality of layers (2-10). Once the ion pre-etched layer (12) is deposited on the ninth layer (10), an oleophobic layer (14) may be deposited over ion pre-etched layer (12). In an embodiment, the thickness of the oleophobic layer (14) may range from 24nm to 26nm. The oleophobic layer (14) may aid in easy cleaning of the optical lens (11). Also, the oleophobic layer (14) may be configured to repel at least one of natural oil or the water from the optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the combination of the ion pre-etched layer (12) and the oleophobic layer (14) may possess anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. In an embodiment, the coating (10a) almost provides residual reflection of less than 1% within wavelength range of 450nm to 700nm spectrum with residual reflection color. In some embodiments, the residual reflection color may be neutral color to avoid unwanted reflection color unlike from other AR coatings available in the market and improve the aesthetic appeal of the lens. In another embodiment, each of the plurality of layers (2-10) or the coating (10a) deposited on the optical lens (11) is ion-assisted. Providing ion-assisted layer ensure minimal or no air bubble or oxygen deposition in the optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the total thickness of the coating (10a) may range from 450-700nm for at least one surface of the optical lens (11). In some embodiments, if the thickness of the coating (10a) may range from 1000nm to 1150nm when the coating (10a) is deposited on both the sides of the optical lens (11).

Referring now to FIG.2 to FIG.5, which depict experimental observations and data obtained during the test conducted on the optical lens (11) with coating (10a) deposited on the optical lens (11). As shown in FIG.2, the graph obtained is from one of the PVD coater that is used to deposit the coating (10a) over the optical lens (11). In an embodiment, the physical vapor deposition technique is performed through evaporation with electron beam guns and subsequently monitored in the graph. FIG(s) 3 to 5 depicts reports that showcase the results obtained for conducting Bayer’s test on the optical lens (11) with coating (10a). The Bayer test is one in a series of standard procedures for determining the abrasion resistance of an optical surface. Abrasion is caused by abrasive media oscillating back and forth over the surface of the optical lens or lenses under specific conditions. The quantification of abrasion resistance is based on the optical measurement of light scattering or haze due to scratches formed on the lens or lenses by the oscillating abrasive media. The optical lens (10) with the coating (10a) deposited over the is subjected to the Bayer’s test to determine wear resistance of the optical lens (11). The coating (10a) may be deposited on optical lens (10) such as allyl diglycol carbonate or CR39 lens, 1.67 Rx AR lens and Poly Rx AR lenses for the purpose of conducting the Bayer’s test. The Bayer’s test performed on the above lenses resulted in a value of 14 for CR39 lens, 13.68 for Poly Rx AR lenses and 16.52 for 1.67 Rx AR lens. From the above test results, it is evident that the optical lens (11) deposited with coating (10a) are of very high wear resistance. However, the test results should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure as tests may be performed on range of materials which can be used in the instant application.

In an embodiment, depositing the coating (10a) as described hereinabove comprising the plurality of layers (2-10) may provide better anti-reflective properties in a visible range with low residual reflection, with limited angular dispersion. Also, the coating (10a) deposited on the optical lens provides blue light filtering, ultraviolet (UV) rays filtering properties. Filtering blue light and the UV rays reduces the harm effects that may be caused to ocular surfaces. Further, by depositing the coating (10a) the optical lens (10) provides a very smooth vision. Also, the coating (10a) deposited on the optical lens (10) ensures glare-less vision and provides better visibility during night. Further, the residual color coating on the optical lens (10) may provide better aesthetics to the lens. Also, the coating (10a) deposited on the optical lens (10) enhances wear resistance of the optical lens (10). Also, the coating (10a) enhances anti-scratch resistance properties of the optical lens (10). Also, the coating of the present disclosure possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Equivalents

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding the description may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated in the description.

Referral Numerals:

Description Reference Number
Optical lens 10
Coating 10a
Hard coat 1
First layer 2
Second layer 3
Third layer 4
Fourth layer 5
Fifth layer 6
Sixth layer 7
Seventh layer 8
Eighth layer 9
Ninth layer 10
Tenth layer 11
Ion-pre etch layer 12
Primer coat 13
Oleophobic layer 14