Technology Resourse International Corporation's (TRI's) breakthrough lens design and molding technology has the potential to produce wraparound laser eye protection and safety lenses that deliver superior vision, extended peripheral vision, enhanced safety and improved comfort. These lenses will be significantly superior to any lenses currently available. The proposed manufacturing process that incorporates TRI's proprietary molding technology will simplify the manufacturing process, improve product quality and reduce manufacturing costs, as compared to the current grinding process. USAF flight crews need wraparound laser eye protection that provides optical prescriptions for vision correction and protects against all potential laser threats. In Phase I research, bi-aspheric, continuous surface, wraparound lens designs have been sown to extend the range of acceptable visual acuity, peripherally, to 60 degrees. This design, combined with a progressive change in the curvature of the front surface outside the central visual field minimizes thickness variations and image jump. In Phase II, TRI will select the best lens designs, build prototypes, refine the design and utilize innovative molding technology to produce wraparound ophthalmic lenses.
Benefits: The lens design and manufacturing technology developed in this project will deliver wraparound laser eye protection that meets the needs of the AIR Force and will create significant commercial marketing opportunities in four market segments. 1) Industrial Safety 2) Sports Vision 3) Military and Defense 4) Sunglasses (Wraparound Prescription lenses with Tints) Based on feedback from industry leaders in each of these four market segments, improved peripheral vision in wraparound prescription lenses will be a major product advantage.
