Circadian Rhythm Restoring Blue Blockers

Case ID:
UA21-174
Invention:

This technology is for glasses that are to be worn at night to block harmful blue light from artificial light sources. Specifically, these glasses block wavelengths associated with circadian-active light, which causes melatonin suppression. This intervention restores the endogenous rhythms of users and leads to better sleep patterns.

Background:
With the prevalence of mobile phones, televisions, and other screens, humans are exposed to a great deal of blue light at night. This exposure leads to the suppression of melatonin, the hormone associated with sleep. This in turn affects the human circadian rhythm and leads to unhealthy sleep. It is estimated that the number of adults suffering from circadian rhythm sleep disorders could be as high as 10% and the number of adolescents suffering from these disorders may be as high as 16%. When untreated, sleep disorders can lead to problems with physical, psychological, and social health.

These blue-light blocking glasses target harmful blue light as well as the wavelengths associated specifically with circadian-active light. Current similar models of blue blockers only block a small portion of circadian-active light, whereas these more completely and effectively block circadian-active light. These glasses are meant to be worn at night and have the capability of restoring the endogenous rhythms of users, which will lead to better sleep and a healthier lifestyle.

Applications:

  • Blue light blockers
  • Circadian-active light blockers
  • Restores circadian rhythms in users


Advantages:

  • More effectively and completely blocks circadian-active light
Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Richard Weite
Senior Licensing Manager, College of Optical Sciences
The University of Arizona
RichardW@tla.arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Michael Grandner
Brooke Mason
Fabian Fernandez
Stanley Pau
Keywords: