Gunnar Optiks granted patents for eyewear to combat computer vision syndrome

Gunnar Optiks received patent approval on Jan. 1 that covers the design and technology behind "eyewear for reducing symptoms of computer vision syndrome," according to the patent's listing on the United States Patent and Trademark Office website.

Patent 8,342,681 covers several "embodiments of the eyewear," encompassing features like "a relatively small amount of optical power" to lesson eye strain, and "optical coatings" that tint the lenses to filter out harsh light. A press release from Gunnar also cites a wrap-around design intended to trap and increase moisture around wearers' eyes.

The American Optometric Association describes Computer Vision Syndrome as "a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use." Symptoms caused because "viewing a computer screen often makes the eyes work harder" include eyestrain, headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision as well as neck and shoulder pain.

"Aggressively protecting our technological innovations is an integral part of our business," said Joe Croft, co-founder of Gunnar. "Gunnar Optiks computer eyewear addresses a problem affecting more than 120 million Americans today. Securing broad based patents reinforces Gunnar's leadership position in the category that we created, and ensures that affected consumers can receive a high quality eyewear solution that protects their vision."

You can check out the company's line of products at its website or wrap them around your face at a local Best Buy.