Methods and ophthalmic devices with organic semiconductor layer

#This invention describes apparatus and methods to form organic semiconductor transistors on ophthalmic device insert components. In some embodiments, the methods and apparatus to configure organic semiconductor transistors within ophthalmic devices form on surfaces that occur on substrates that have three-dimensional shapes. In some embodiments, a field of use for the methods and apparatus may include ophthalmic devices that incorporate energization elements, inserts, and organic semiconductor devices.

#Traditionally an ophthalmic device, such as a contact lens, an intraocular lens, or a punctal plug included a biocompatible device with a corrective, cosmetic, or therapeutic quality. A contact lens, for example, may provide one or more of: vision correcting functionality; cosmetic enhancement; and therapeutic effects. Each function is provided by a physical characteristic of the lens. A design incorporating a refractive quality into a lens may provide a vision corrective function. A pigment incorporated into the lens may provide a cosmetic enhancement. An active agent incorporated into a lens may provide a therapeutic functionality. Such physical characteristics are accomplished without the lens entering into an energized state. A punctal plug has traditionally been a passive device.

#More recently, it has been theorized that active components may be incorporated into a contact lens. Some components may include semiconductor devices. Some examples have shown semiconductor devices embedded in a contact lens placed upon animal eyes. It has also been described how the active components may be energized and activated in numerous manners within the lens structure itself. The topology and size of the space defined by the lens structure creates a novel and challenging environment for the definition of various functionalities. In many embodiments, it is important to provide reliable, compact, and cost effective means to energize components within an ophthalmic device. In some embodiments, these energization elements may include batteries that may in turn be formed from “alkaline” cell-based chemistry. Connected to these energization elements may be other components that utilize electrical energy. In some embodiments, these other components may include transistors to perform circuit functions. It may also be desirable to include semiconductor devices in such devices organic.

#FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary ophthalmic lens with three-dimensionally formed or formable insert substrates upon which organic semiconductor devices may be defined consistent with other related disclosures of the inventive entity.

#FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flow for forming three-dimensional surfaces that may be consistent with the formation of organic semiconductor devices.

#FIG. 3 illustrates an integrated circuit device that is connected to a three dimensionally formed insert device with conductive traces in at least two electrically conductive locations.

#The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for the formation of organic semiconductor devices upon ophthalmic insert structures. In some embodiments, the insert structure may have surfaces that have three-dimensional topology. In the following sections, detailed descriptions of embodiments of the invention will be given. The description of both preferred and alternative embodiments are exemplary embodiments only, and it is understood that to those skilled in the art that variations, modifications and alterations may be apparent. It is therefore to be understood that said exemplary embodiments do not limit the scope of the underlying invention.

#In this description and claims directed to the presented invention, various terms may be used for which the following definitions will apply:

#Encapsulate as used herein refers to creating a barrier to separate an entity, such as, for example, a Media Insert, from an environment adjacent to the entity.