Hybrid contact lens system and method

Abstract

A hybrid hard-soft contact lens is provided. Several embodiments of the invention include methods of coupling the hard and soft sections of the contact lens. Other embodiments of the invention include contact lens materials and coatings that increase oxygen transmission though the lens. Yet other embodiments of the invention are directed to cost-effective manufacturing methods of a hybrid hard-soft contact lens. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.

1 - 43 . (canceled)  
   
   
       44 . A hybrid contact lens, comprising: 
 a substantially rigid portion, the substantially rigid portion having a first curvature; and    a substantially flexible portion coupled to the substantially rigid portion, the substantially flexible portion having a second curvature that is greater than the first curvature.    
   
   
       45 . The hybrid contact lens of  claim 44 , wherein the second curvature causes the substantially flexible portion to suspend the substantially rigid portion above an eye.  
   
   
       46 . The hybrid contact lens of  claim 44 , wherein the second curvature causes the substantially flexible portion to decrease a contact force between an eye and the substantially rigid portion.  
   
   
       47 . The hybrid contact lens of  claim 44 , wherein the second curvature enables a transfer of tear liquid under the substantially rigid portion.  
   
   
       48 . The hybrid contact lens of  claim 47 , wherein the tear liquid under the substantially rigid portion provides an optical correction.  
   
   
       49 . The hybrid contact lens of  claim 46 , wherein the optical correction may range between about one diopter to about ten diopters.