Device for holding intraocular lens along optical axis of intraocular lens

Abstract

A device configured to be implanted in a lens capsule of a human eye and securely hold an intraocular lens (IOL) and operable to displace the IOL relative to an optical axis of the IOL; the device comprises: a first member configured to be fixedly positioned within a lens capsule, a second member to which the IOL is fixedly attachable, and a bendable structure attached at a first end thereof to the first member and at a second end thereof to the second member; the bendable structure is configured to be remotely controllably bendable at various bending levels to change the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis when the IOL is attached to the second member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention is in the field of medical devices and, in particular, relates to devices configured to retain an intraocular lens in vivo.

[0002] background

[0003] Various medical conditions related to vision and sight are treated by replacing the natural eye lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Eye-related problems such as cataracts, eye injuries, visual refractive errors including farsightedness (hyperopia), myopia (nearsightedness), and astigmatism can be addressed with IOL replacement surgery. This treatment is beneficial for other eye conditions in people who are not suitable for laser treatment.

[0004] Cataract is the most common eye disease in the world, accounting for half of blindness and one-third of visual impairment worldwide. Approximately 25 million patients undergo cataract surgery each year worldwide.

[0005] Typically implanted IOLs provide a selected focal length and optical power that should allow the patient to have reasonably good vision. However, it is often difficult to predict the exact properties of the lens needed to correct impaired vision. For example, currently, even with state-of-the-art multifocal and other presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses, less than 50% of patients achieve their target visual acuity after treatment, which results in patients often having to wear glasses for reading or distance vision after surgery.

[0006] Although IOL exchange surgery is a common surgical procedure, it involves several challenges, such as: prediction of the exact lens characteristics (ELP); errors in lens positioning during surgery; tilt or shift after surgery and during the healing process of the eye; and changes in corneal cylinder power in the elderly. There are several types of IOLs used to correct visual impairment, such as monofocal, multifocal, and toric (combinations are possible in the same lens). After the installation and healing process, all types of IOLs may move and deviate from the designed optical axis, so compensation needs to be made by optimizing the IOL position within the lens capsule. The IOL position may need to be modified around the optical axis of the IOL to correct astigmatism problems, or it may need to be modified along the optical axis of the IOL to correct focusing problems. There are several techniques (both invasive and non-invasive) used to implement compensation, such as repeated surgery to shift the IOL; using unique UV-sensitive polymers that can compensate by post-deformation of the lens; and / or changing the IOL shape by using laser radiation.

[0007] General Description

[0008] The present invention provides techniques for post-adjusting and optimizing the position of an intraocular lens (IOL) that has been implanted in the lens capsule.By IOL, applicants refer herein essentially to the optical lens itself excluding the mount that holds the IOL.

[0009] The described techniques, systems and devices enable non-invasive, remote and repeated correction of the position and / or orientation (tilt) of an IOL relative to the optical axis of the lens, enabling the procedure to be performed relatively easily and in a short time, for example in a clinic, while eliminating the need for additional invasive surgical procedures.

[0010] The present invention provides an IOL holding / supporting system / device (e.g., in the form of a bracket) that includes / integrates a movement system / mechanism / assembly operable to shift and adjust the position / orientation of an IOL along its optical axis. The movement system / mechanism / assembly is configured to be remotely activated from outside the eye and to apply a correction to the position of the IOL in the direction of the optical axis (also referred to herein as the axial or Z direction), thereby shifting / changing the position of the focus of the IOL at least along the Z direction.

[0011] The present invention enables a physician to precisely adjust the position of an IOL based on the precise amount of visual correction required to achieve desired vision. The system / device disclosed herein is miniature, enabling remote access to an integrated mobile system / mechanism / assembly through the pupil of the eye. The diameter of the pupil extends between about 2 mm to about 4 mm under light conditions, and between about 4 mm to about 8 mm under dark conditions. Thus, the described system / device allows for accommodation of IOLs with diameters in the range of about 3.5-6 mm. The technology of the present invention enables small axial step distances and / or small tilt angles within the desired range.

[0012] Additionally, the described systems and devices are flexible and foldable, at least within the operating temperature range, thereby facilitating insertion and implantation in the eye capsule.

[0013] Thus, according to one aspect, there is provided a device configured to be implanted in a lens capsule of a human eye and to securely hold an intraocular lens (IOL), and operable to displace the IOL relative to an optical axis of the IOL, the device comprising:

[0014] a first member configured to be fixedly positioned within the lens capsule;

[0015] a second member to which the IOL is fixably attached; and

[0016] A bendable structure is attached to the first member at its first end and to the second member at its second end; the bendable structure is configured to be remotely controllably bend at various bending levels to change the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis when the IOL is attached to the second member.

[0017] In some embodiments, the device includes a locking mechanism configured to be remotely controllable and operable to at least partially lock or release one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member, thereby changing the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis when the IOL is attached to the second member. The locking mechanism can be operable to at least partially lock or release one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member, such that during the changing position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis, the first plane and the second plane defined by the first member and the second member, respectively, remain parallel and perpendicular to the IOL optical axis therebetween.

[0018] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is operable to at least partially lock or release one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member such that during a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis, a first plane defined by the first member becomes inclined relative to a second plane defined by the second member.

[0019] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a plurality of remotely controllable locks, each lock configured to lock and release a portion of the bendable structure to the first member or the second member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the bendable structure includes a plurality of elongated bendable members, each elongated bendable member having a first end permanently attached to a first member and a second end permanently attached to a second member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes at least two groups of remotely controllable locking members, and the bendable structure includes at least two corresponding elongated bendable members, each group of controllable locking members is operable to lock the corresponding elongated bendable member to the first member or the second member or release it from the first member or the second member, and each group of controllable locking members includes a plurality of controllable locking members arranged in a locking member array, so that sequential activation of the locking members in the locking member array causes the corresponding parts of the elongated bendable members to be locked or released.

[0022] Symmetrical activation of individual controllable locks belonging to different groups of controllable locks results in a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the IOL. Asymmetric activation of individual controllable locks belonging to different groups of controllable locks results in a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL in an oblique direction relative to the optical axis of the IOL.

[0023] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a third member adjacent to the first member, such that the bendable structure is encapsulated between the first member and the third member, and rotating the third member relative to the first member causes one or more portions of the bendable structure to be locked to or released from the first member and changes the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis.

[0024] In some embodiments, the bendable structure includes a plurality of elongated bendable members, at least some of the elongated bendable members having a first end permanently attached to a first member, and at least some of the elongated members having a second end permanently attached to a second member, each of the plurality of elongated bendable members being capable of twisting about its longitudinal axis, the elongated bendable members being arranged in one or more pairs, the two elongated bendable members in the pair being located on opposite sides relative to the second member, and remotely controlling the degree of twisting of the two elongated bendable members in the pair causing the IOL to tilt about an axis passing through the two elongated bendable members in the pair when the IOL is attached to the second member.

[0025] In some embodiments, the device is configured and operable to displace the IOL in at least one of an anterior direction or a posterior direction relative to the first member when attached to the second member.

[0026] In some embodiments, the device is configured and operable to at least partially reversibly displace the IOL when attached to the second member.

[0027] In some embodiments, the bendable structure is made of a shape memory material processed such that the default shape of the bendable structure is in its fully open state, wherein the locking mechanism is operable to change the position of the bendable structure between the fully closed state and the fully open state.

[0028] In some embodiments, each of the controllable locks is made of a shape memory material that is processed such that at body temperature the locks are in a closed state locking the corresponding portion of the bendable structure, and such that when heated to a predetermined temperature, the locks transition to an open state releasing the corresponding portion of the bendable structure by absorbing energy from a remote energy source. The bendable structure may be made of a shape memory material that is processed such that at body temperature the default shape of each elongated bendable member is in its fully twisted state, and such that when heated to a predetermined temperature, the elongated bendable member transitions to a less twisted state by absorbing energy from a remote energy source.

[0029] In some embodiments, the shape memory material comprises Nitinol.

[0030] In some embodiments, the device is foldable so that it can pass through approximately 2.54 mm 2 cross section or a circular diameter of approximately 1.8 mm.

[0031] In some embodiments, the locking member is configured to be mechanically attached to a corresponding point on the first member or the second member. In some embodiments, the locking member can be mechanically attached to the first member or the second member by clamping or a male-female arrangement. In some embodiments, the mechanical attachment is reversible.

[0032] In some embodiments, the bendable member includes ordered grooves and protrusions on the side thereof facing the first member or the second member (as the case may be), which match the ordered protrusions and grooves on the opposite side of the first member or the second member, and the locking member is aligned with the protrusions of the bendable member in its locked state and aligned with the protrusions of the first member or the second member in its unlocked state.

[0033] According to another aspect, there is provided an IOL adjustment system comprising:

[0034] Any of the above devices; and

[0035] A remote energy source is configured and operable to provide said energy to heat one or more portions of the device.

[0036] In some embodiments, the remote energy source includes a radiating element.

[0037] In some embodiments, the remote energy source includes a laser source.

[0038] In some embodiments, the laser source is configured and operable to provide continuous laser radiation.

[0039] In some embodiments, the laser source is configured as an argon laser source operable to provide light in the green spectrum.

[0040] In some embodiments, the laser source is configured and operable to provide a laser power between 0.1-5 Watts and a laser pulse width between 200-1000 milliseconds.

[0041] In some embodiments, the remote energy source comprises an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and the one or more portions of the device comprise corresponding electromagnetic radiation receivers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] In order to better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it may be implemented in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Figures 1A to 1L A first non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention is shown, the device being configured to hold an IOL and being operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after the IOL has been implanted inside an eye;

[0045] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E A second non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention is shown, the device being configured to hold an IOL and being operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after the IOL has been implanted inside an eye;

[0046] Figures 2AA to 2AD A third non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention is shown, the device being configured to hold an IOL and being operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after the IOL has been implanted inside an eye;

[0047] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A fourth non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention is shown, the device being configured to hold an IOL and being operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after the IOL has been implanted inside an eye;

[0048] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C A fifth non-limiting example of an apparatus according to the present invention is shown, the apparatus being configured to hold an IOL and being operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after the IOL has been implanted inside an eye; and

[0049] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D Non-limiting examples of devices according to the present invention configured to protect functional parts of any of the above-described devices are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The present invention is directed to an intraocular lens (IOL) retaining device that enables remote, non-invasive and controlled post-adjustment of the position of an implanted lens relative to the optical axis of the IOL.

[0051] refer to Figures 1A to 1L , schematically illustrates a first non-limiting example of a device 10A incorporating the technical principles of the present invention, wherein the device 10A is configured to be implanted in a lens capsule of a human eye, securely holds an intraocular lens (IOL), and is operable to displace at least a portion of the IOL along the IOL optical axis by absorbing energy from a remote energy source (the remote energy source is not part of the device 10A and can be selected from a variety of suitable energy sources, such as some laser sources, ultrasound sources, as will be further described below).

[0052] Figure 1A is an isometric view of the device 10A in an open state, wherein the displacement of the IOL retaining portion along the optical axis (OA) / Z direction is maximal; Figure 1B is an isometric view of the device 10A in a closed state, wherein the displacement of the IOL retaining portion along the optical axis / Z direction is zero; Figure 1A1 and Figure 1B1 is a close-up view of the functional portion of the device 10A; Figure 1C and Figure 1E is a side view of the device 10A in an open position while holding an IOL; Figure 1D is an isometric view of the device 10A in a closed position while retaining an IOL; Figure 1F to Figure 1L An example of gradual / incremental displacement of the IOL retaining portion of device 10A along the axial Z direction is shown.

[0053] Typically, the device 10A is in Figure 1B and Figure 1D The closed state shown is implanted in the eye capsule. If correction of the IOL position is required, the device 10A is activated to move incrementally therefrom to one of the open states, such as Figure 1F to Figure 1K as shown in .

[0054] like Figure 1A As shown, the device 10A includes a first member 100A, a second member 200A and a structure 300A connected between the first member and the second member. In this non-limiting example, the device includes a locking mechanism 400A, which is configured to control the structure 300A, such as its three-dimensional shape, as will be described below.

[0055] The first member 100A is configured to be fixedly positioned within the lens capsule. The second member 200A is configured to fixedly retain an IOL. In this example, the second member 200A includes a cavity 202A configured to receive an IOL.

[0056] In this example and other subsequent examples, the device is generally circular in shape, with the first member 100A generally forming an outer ring and the second member 200A generally forming an inner ring that is located within the outer ring of the first member in the closed state of the device. However, it should be noted that each or both of the first and second members can take other shapes, and among other things, the first and second members can also have an open shape, not necessarily a closed shape as in this example. For example, the first member and / or the second member can be configured as an open shape, such as an open arc.

[0057] While holding the IOL, the device of the present invention is typically implanted in the anatomical lens capsule compartment, or in the case of a damaged / ruptured lens capsule, is implanted in the anatomical groove. Typically, the implantation of the IOL in the human eye is supported by one or more haptics attached to the device and that can anchor the device and the IOL to the implantation site. In some embodiments, the first member includes at least two integral haptics (not shown) on its outside. In some other embodiments, the first member includes at least two attachment portions (not shown) on its outside, and the attachment portions are configured to attach two corresponding haptics thereto. The haptics can be adjusted to a specific implantation anatomical site.

[0058] The dimensions of the device of the present invention are selected to enable secure retention of the lens (including existing lenses) and to ensure secure implantation of the IOL and effective displacement after implantation. The device is configured to retain the IOL in a permanent position until the device is activated to displace the IOL.

[0059] The structure 300A and the locking mechanism 400A form a moving mechanism / assembly responsible for displacing the second member 200A, and the IOL held thereby, relative to the first member 100A, relative to / along the Z direction.

[0060] The structure 300A is a bendable structure that is fixedly / permanently attached to the first member 100A at its first end (e.g., 300AF) and fixedly / permanently attached to the second member 200A at its second end (e.g., 300AS). The bendable structure 300A is configured to be remotely controllably bendable at various bend levels, thereby changing the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis when the IOL is attached to the second member.

[0061] In some embodiments, the bendable structure is partially or completely made of a shape memory material and / or a superelastic material (e.g., nitinol, bimetal, as further described below) that is processed so that the default shape of the bendable structure is in its fully open state, such as Figure 1AThe locking mechanism is operable to, for example, Figure 1B The fully closed state shown and e.g. Figure 1K The position and / or three-dimensional shape of the bendable structure is changed between the fully open states shown.

[0062] By remotely controlling the locking mechanism, one or more portions of the bendable structure can be locked to or released from the first member or the second member, thereby causing at least a portion of the bendable structure to collapse or extend along the Z direction and causing the second member to shift relative to the first member, thereby changing the position of at least a portion / periphery of the IOL along the Z direction / IOL optical axis OA when attached to the second member. In this non-limiting example, the locking mechanism 400A is remotely controlled to release one or more portions of the bendable structure 300A from the first member 100A, thereby causing at least a portion of the bendable structure 300A to extend along the Z direction and causing the second member 200A to shift relative to the first member 100A, thereby changing the position of at least a portion / periphery of the IOL along the Z direction / IOL optical axis OA when attached to the second member.

[0063] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is operable to at least partially lock or release one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member such that during a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis, the first plane and the second plane defined by the first member and the second member, respectively, remain parallel therebetween and perpendicular to the IOL optical axis. In the described examples, for example, Figure 1A and Figure 1C As shown, the locking mechanism 400A is operable to release one or more portions of the bendable structure 300A from the first member 100A so that during a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis, a plane P1 defined by the first member 100A and a plane P2 defined by the second member 200A remain parallel therebetween and perpendicular to the IOL optical axis Z / OA.

[0064] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is operable to at least partially lock or release one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member such that during a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL along the IOL optical axis, a first plane defined by the first member becomes inclined relative to a second plane defined by the second member. This is for example Figure 1E , where plane P1 and plane P2 are tilted / inclined relative to each other. This can be achieved, for example, by asymmetric activation of different parts of the locking mechanism, as will be described below. Figure 1L It will be appreciated that the device may be configured to be tiltable in the X direction and / or the Y direction.

[0065] In some embodiments, the bendable structure includes a plurality of elongated bendable members, each of which has a first end permanently / fixedly attached to a first member and a second end permanently / fixedly attached to a second member. In this non-limiting example, the bendable structure includes four elongated bendable members 300A1-300A4 distributed on the circular perimeter of the first member and the circular perimeter of the second member, and as seen, each elongated bendable member is permanently connected to the first member at its first end and is permanently connected to the second member at its second end. As also shown in the figure, each elongated bendable member is a continuous single element.

[0066] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a plurality of remotely controllable locking members, each of which is configured to lock / release a portion of the bendable structure to / from the first member or the second member. This is illustrated in the current example, where the locking mechanism 400A includes 28 individually controllable locking members, such as Figure 1A1 The locking members 400A1 and 400A2 shown in FIG. Further details about the locking members will be further mentioned below.

[0067] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes at least two sets of remotely controllable locking members, and the bendable structure includes at least two corresponding elongated bendable members. In this non-limiting example, there are four sets of locking members 400AA-400AD and four elongated bendable members 300A1-300A4 (e.g., Figure 1K Each set of controllable locking elements comprises an array of seven individual locking elements operable to lock or release a corresponding elongated bendable member to or from the first member 100A. The individual locking elements of the locking element array lock corresponding portions of the elongated bendable member and are sequentially activated to release corresponding portions of the elongated bendable member. For example, Figure 1B1 The locking members 400A1, 400A2 and 400A3 shown in FIG. 1 are activated in this order, thereby producing Figure 1A1 to release the corresponding portion of the elongated bendable member 300A1.

[0068] Symmetrical activation of individual controllable locking elements belonging to different groups of controllable locking elements results in a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the IOL, in other words, in keeping the planes P1 and P2 defined by the first and second members, respectively, parallel. Figure 1F to Figure 1K For example, Figure 1F As shown, the first locking member in the array of locking members in each of the four groups is activated to release the first portion of the corresponding elongated member. Figure 1GAs shown, the second locking member of each group is activated to release the second portion of the corresponding elongated member. Figures 1H to 1K In the embodiment of the present invention, the third locking member, the fourth locking member, the fifth locking member and the sixth locking member of each group are activated to release the third part, the fourth part, the fifth part and the sixth part of the corresponding elongated member, respectively. For an elongated bendable member of a given length and a default shape, the size of the locking members, the distance between the locking members and the number of locking members all play a role in the displacement distance along the optical axis of the IOL. Therefore, it should be understood that a constant distance between every two adjacent locking members will produce a constant displacement distance, while changing the distance between the locking members in the array will produce a variable displacement distance. This is true in all embodiments of the locking mechanism that adopts one or more locking member array forms herein.

[0069] On the other hand, asymmetric activation of individual controllable locking elements belonging to different groups of controllable locking elements results in a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL in an oblique direction relative to the optical axis of the IOL. This is for example Figure 1L , where groups 400AB and 400AC are activated one more time than groups 400AA and 400AD. For an elongated bendable member of a given length and default shape, control of the tilt angle is achieved, for example, based on the size of the locks, the distance between the locks, and the number of locks.

[0070] It will be appreciated that the device, bendable structure and locking mechanism may be designed so that the second member and the IOL attached thereto can be displaced only in the anterior direction (toward the cornea), or only in the posterior direction (toward the retina), or in both directions.

[0071] According to the present invention, IOL displacement is accomplished remotely when one or more activatable portions of the device are exposed to energy from an external energy source.

[0072] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism (particularly the controllable locking element) is made of a shape memory material (e.g., Nitinol, as further described below) that is processed so that at body temperature the locking element is in a closed state that locks the corresponding portion of the bendable structure, and so that when heated to a predetermined temperature, the locking element is transformed into an open state that releases the corresponding portion of the bendable structure by absorbing energy from a remote energy source. The two spatial configurations of the locking element are Figure 1B1 and Figure 1A1 It is shown in Figure 1B1 Shows the closed locked state, Figure 1A1 An open unlocked state is shown.

[0073] As described above, the bendable structure and / or locking mechanism may include a shape memory material / superelastic material that enables the device or a major portion thereof to be foldable under the application of a certain amount of external force and return to their original shape without deformation once the external force is removed.

[0074] In some embodiments, the shape memory material is a specially designed Nitinol (nickel titanium alloy), selected for its biocompatibility and design flexibility. In some embodiments, the superelastic material is a specially designed Nitinol or bimetal.

[0075] Nitinol can be designed as a superelastic material within a specific temperature range and a shape memory material within a specific temperature range. Typically, Nitinol is configured to change its structure from a martensite phase to an austenite phase at a gradient of several degrees Celsius. The temperature gradient and the phase change temperature can be programmed as required. For example, the Nitinol alloy can be designed so that at up to about 40°C (close to body temperature), it is in a plastic martensite phase and can be formed into a desired shape under external force, such as forming a bendable structure. On the other hand, raising the temperature to about 60°C causes a phase transition to the austenite phase, where Nitinol changes its shape (deforms) to take a shape stored in its "memory" (even under a certain amount of external force), such as forming an open unlocked state of a lock in a locking mechanism. Once the temperature returns to about 40°C, Nitinol returns to its plastic state and can be reshaped as needed to provide a closed locked state of the lock. The bendable structure, the first member, the second member, and the locking mechanism can be designed to have superelasticity near room temperature and near body temperature so that they can be folded when inserted into the lens capsule. For example, the device can be configured to be foldable so that it can pass through approximately 2.54 mm 2 of cross section (equivalent to a circular diameter of 1.8 mm, however the cross section may also be elliptical in shape).

[0076] The remote energy source is configured and operable to provide activation energy to a plurality of locking members in the locking mechanism. Typically, each locking member is activated individually. In some embodiments, the remote energy source requires a direct / uninterrupted line of sight / route between the remote energy source and the remotely activated locking member, while in some other embodiments, there is no such requirement and activation can be achieved without a direct line of sight. In some embodiments, the remote energy source is configured and operable to provide activation energy in the form of heat. As described above, this is particularly important in the case where the actuator is made of nitinol. In some embodiments, the remote energy source includes at least one radiating element that is operable to heat the locking member by irradiating the locking member. In some embodiments, the remote energy source includes an electromagnetic radiation transmitter, and the plurality of actuators include corresponding electromagnetic radiation receivers. In some embodiments, the remote energy source is a laser source. In some embodiments, the laser source is configured and operable to provide continuous laser radiation. In some embodiments, the laser source is configured and operable to provide a green spectrum (so-called argon laser). In some embodiments, the laser source is configured and operable to generate a laser having the following parameters: a laser power between 0.1-5 watts, a laser pulse width between 200-1000ms.

[0077] refer to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E , another non-limiting example of a device 10B incorporating features of the present invention is shown. As will be appreciated, the device 10A is configured for unidirectional displacement of the IOL along the Z / OA direction. In contrast, as described below, the device 10B is configured for bidirectional displacement of the IOL along the Z / OA direction.

[0078] Figure 2A is a perspective top view of the device 10B in its closed state, ready for implantation in the eye capsule with the IOL attached thereto; Figure 2B to Figure 2C Two stages of IOL displacement along one Z / OA direction are shown; and FIG. 2D to FIG. 2E Two stages of IOL displacement in opposite Z / OA directions are shown.

[0079] like Figure 2A As shown, the device 10B includes a first member 100B, a second member 200B, and a bendable structure 300B connected between the first member and the second member, the first member 100B is configured to be fixedly positioned in the lens capsule, and the second member 200B includes a cavity 202B configured to fixedly hold the IOL. The device 10B also includes a locking mechanism 400B, which is configured to control the structure 300B, as will be described below.

[0080] The bendable structure 300B comprises two branches 300BA and 300BB, which are responsible for displacing the second member and the IOL in opposite Z directions. The first bendable structure branch 300BA comprises two first elongated bendable members 300BA1 and 300BA2 responsible for displacing the IOL in a first Z direction, and the second bendable structure branch 300BB comprises two second elongated bendable members 300BB1 and 300BB2 responsible for displacing the IOL in an opposite second Z direction. The movement in the +Z and -Z directions is controlled by the free unlocking and default shape of the associated bendable members.

[0081] The locking mechanism 400B includes two locking element array branches 400BA, 400BB associated with two bendable structure branches 300BA, 300BB, respectively. The locking element array branch 400BA is attached to the inner member 200B, and the locking element array branch 400BB is attached to the outer member 100B. Each locking element array branch includes two locking element arrays associated with two elongated bendable members of each bendable structure branch. Each of the two locking element arrays in the locking element array branches includes five individually controllable locking elements. It should be noted that, based on specific applications and needs, there may be different numbers of locking elements in each locking element array. For example Figure 2B and Figure 2B1 As shown, for example, the first locking element in the locking element array 400BB1 is activated by energy from a remote source, so that the first locking element releases the elongated bendable member 300BB1. At the same time, although not shown, in order to keep the first member and the second member parallel and perpendicular to the OA direction, the first locking element in the locking element array 400BB2 is activated by energy from a remote source, so that the first locking element releases the elongated bendable member 300BB2. As a result, the second member and the IOL are displaced in the +Z direction.

[0082] Figure 2C A second activation of subsequent locks in arrays 400BB1 and 400BB2 is shown to produce a second step of displacement in the +Z direction by further releasing another portion of elongated bendable members 300BB1 and 300BB2.

[0083] Figure 2D , Figure 2D1 and Figure 2E Two steps of sequential displacement of the second member and the IOL in the -Z direction are shown.In this case, the locks in the lock arrays 400BA1 and 400BA2 are activated to release the elongated bendable members 300BA1 and 300BA2, respectively.

[0084] It will be appreciated that the device 10B achieves reversible displacement of the IOL. In other words, if the displacement in a particular Z direction is too great, the displacement direction can be reversed and corrected in the opposite direction. Thus, for example, if the IOL is displaced x steps in the +Z direction by activating the locking element arrays 400BB1 and 400BB2, and a correction of (x-1) steps in the +Z direction is desired, then the locking element arrays 400BA1 and 400BA2 are activated to displace the IOL one step in the -Z direction, thereby obtaining a total of (x-1) steps of displacement in the +Z direction.

[0085] All features described with respect to device 10A also apply to device 10B, however not specifically described.For example, asymmetric activation of the locking elements in locking element arrays 400BA1 and 400BA2 will result in tilt displacement of the IOL along the IOL optical axis.

[0086] refer to Figures 2AA to 2AD , shows another non-limiting example of a device 10X incorporating features of the present invention. As will be appreciated, similar to device 10B, device 10X is configured for bidirectional displacement of an IOL along the Z / OA direction, as will be described below.

[0087] Figure 2AA is a superior isometric view of the device 10X in its closed state ready for implantation into the eye capsule with the IOL attached thereto; Figures 2AB to 2AC The displacement of the IOL along the first and second (opposite) Z / OA directions is shown respectively; Figure 2AD Additional features of the device of the present invention are shown exemplified on device 10X.

[0088] like Figure 2AA As shown, the device 10X includes a first (external) member 100X, a second (internal) member 200X, and a bendable structure 300X connected between the first and second members, the first (external) member 100X being configured to be fixedly positioned within the lens capsule, the second (internal) member 200X including a cavity 202X configured to fixedly hold an IOL. The device 10X also includes a locking mechanism 400X, which is configured to control the structure 300X, as will be described below.

[0089] As in Figure 2AB and Figure 2ACAs can be seen in the figure, the bendable structure 300X includes two branches 300XA and 300XB, which are responsible for displacing the second member and the IOL in opposite Z directions. The first bendable structure branch 300XA includes two first elongated bendable members 300XA1 and 300XA2 responsible for displacing the IOL in the first Z direction, and the second bendable structure branch 300XB includes two second elongated bendable members 300XB1 and 300XB2 responsible for displacing the IOL in the opposite second Z direction. The movement in the +Z and -Z directions is controlled by the free unlocking and default shape of the associated bendable members.

[0090] The locking mechanism 400X includes two locking element array branches 400XA and 400XB associated with two bendable structure branches 300XA and 300XB, respectively. The locking element array branch 400XA is attached to the external member 100X, and the locking element array branch 400XB is attached to the internal member 200X. Each locking element array branch includes two locking element arrays associated with two elongated bendable members of each bendable structure branch. For example, the locking element array branch 400XB includes two locking element arrays 400XB1 and 400XB2 associated with two elongated bendable members 300XB1 and 300XB2 of the bendable structure branch 300XB. In this non-limiting example, each locking element array in the two locking element arrays in the locking element array branch includes five individually controllable locking elements. It should be noted that different numbers of locking elements may be present in each locking element array based on specific applications and needs. It is also noted that equal / different spacing between locking elements achieves equal / different step (shift) sizes. As described above, in order to keep the first member 100X and the second member 200X parallel and perpendicular to the OA direction, the same number of locks in the two lock arrays belonging to the same lock array branch are activated by remote source energy, so that the elongated bendable members of the same bendable structure branch are symmetrically released. Activating the locks in this way causes the internal member to move in the +Z direction or the -Z direction in a graded manner as each individual lock is activated. At the same time, it should be understood that the asymmetric activation of the locks belonging to the same lock array branch can cause the internal member 200X to tilt relative to the external member 100X. It can also be understood that the asymmetric or even symmetric activation of the locks belonging to the two lock array branches (e.g., the first locks in the corresponding arrays) can cause the internal member 200X to tilt relative to the external member 100X.

[0091] It should be understood that the device 10X achieves reversible displacement of the IOL. In other words, if the displacement in a particular Z direction is too great, the displacement direction can be reversed and corrected in the opposite direction. Thus, for example, if the IOL is displaced x steps in the +Z direction by activating the locking element arrays 400XA1 and 400XA2, and a correction of (x-2) steps in the +Z direction is desired, then the locking element arrays 400XB1 and 400XB2 are activated to displace the IOL two steps in the -Z direction, thereby obtaining a total of (x-2) steps of displacement in the +Z direction.

[0092] Figure 2AD Two additional features of the device 10X are shown, which can also be implemented in all devices of the present invention. In the close-up view AD1, a locking piece 400XBA is shown. The locking piece 400XBA includes a rear portion 400XBB, which is configured to be mechanically attached to the internal member 200X in a reversible manner, which enables the locking piece to be mechanically attached and detached. In this non-limiting example, the locking piece includes two protrusions / legs 400XBL, which are bendable and can be inserted into corresponding recesses 200XD formed in the internal member. Once the legs are bent and inserted, they will open back to the default shape and be firmly locked in the recess at the corresponding locking point. In other words, the locking piece is attached in the clamping mechanism. For example, as described above, the legs of the locking piece can be made of flexible nitinol (e.g., nitinol in a martensitic phase at an appropriate temperature range (e.g., including room temperature and body temperature)). As will be appreciated, other non-permanent attachment mechanisms (e.g. based on male-female attachments) are also possible. Compared to other attachment mechanisms (particularly permanent mechanisms such as welding or laser welding or gluing or brazing or a combination thereof) that may be applied in some embodiments herein, this mechanical attachment provides safe, accurate, repeatable and controllable positioning and alignment of the locking member. It will be appreciated that, because the legs are fixed in the recess (and also because they are made of Nitinol), only the front portion 400XBF of the locking member is activated by an external energy source to deform and release the relevant portion of the bendable member.

[0093] Another feature is also shown in view AD1. The internal or external member associated with each locking element array and the bendable member are shaped accordingly in a matching groove-protrusion (or valley-hill) manner. Each protrusion in the external / internal member is aligned with a matching groove in the bendable member. In this example, the internal member 200X and the bendable member 300XB1 associated with the locking element array 400XB1 are shaped correspondingly in a matching groove-protrusion manner. As shown in close-up view AD2, when in a closed locked state, each locking element front portion 400XAF of the locking element in the locking element array 400XA1 is aligned with a protrusion formed in the bendable member 300XA1 and a corresponding groove formed in the external member 100X. In an open unlocked state, the front portion of the locking element will be aligned with the protrusion of the internal or external member, depending on the situation. In view of the small size of the locking element and the bendable member, these specific shaping and alignment enable the bendable member to be firmly locked by the locking element, thereby facilitating the manufacture of the micro-device of the present invention while maximizing its function. Furthermore, this makes it possible to minimise the movement required of the locking element between the locked and unlocked states, thereby optimising energy usage and / or the amount of shape memory material used.

[0094] Other features described with respect to devices 10A and 10B also apply to device 10X, but are not specifically described.

[0095] refer to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C , showing another non-limiting example of an apparatus 10C incorporating features of the present invention. Figure 3A is a front view of the device 10C; Figure 3A1 is a close-up view of a portion of apparatus 10C; Figure 3B The device 10C is shown when the IOL is held with zero displacement in the Z direction; and Figure 3C The device 1OC is shown while holding the IOL with displacement in the Z direction.

[0096] like Figure 3A and Figure 3A1 As shown, the device 10C includes a first member 100C configured to be fixedly positioned in the lens capsule, a second member 200C configured to hold the IOL, and a bendable structure 300C ( Figure 3C ).

[0097] In this non-limiting example, displacement of the periphery of the IOL along the z-direction is achieved by a locking mechanism 400C, which utilizes the rotational movement of the locking mechanism 400C to at least partially release or lock the bendable structure to the first member 100C. When the locking mechanism is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise, the locking mechanism 400C releases or locks the bendable structure 300C.

[0098] Specifically, as shown in the figure, locking mechanism 400C includes a third member 402C, which is adjacent to the first member 100C, specifically on the top of the first member 100C, so that the bendable structure 300C is limited / enclosed between the first member and the third member. Locking mechanism 400C includes one or more locking pieces (such as 400C1 and 400C2), when the third member 402C rotates relative to the first member 100C, the one or more locking pieces lock or release one or more parts (such as elongated bendable members 300C1 and 300C2) of the bendable structure, thereby changing the position of the periphery of the IOL along the Z / OA direction. As shown in the figure, locking pieces 400C1 and 400C2 can be configured as local protrusions along the inner periphery of the third member 402C.

[0099] Figure 3B shows a closed initial state when the bendable structure is locked to the first member, and Figure 3C The counterclockwise rotation of the third member 402C and the locking members 400C1 and 400C2 is shown to gradually release the elongated bendable members 300C1 and 300C2, respectively. It should be understood that the clockwise rotation of the locking members 400C1 and 400C2 will gradually lock the elongated bendable members 300C1 and 300C2 back to the first member, thereby reducing the displacement of the periphery of the IOL along the optical axis. It should also be understood that this example shows a symmetrical displacement of the IOL so that the IOL remains perpendicular to the optical axis without tilting.

[0100] The rotation of the third member 402C carrying the locking members 400C1 and 400C2 is achieved by means of a rotation mechanism 450C included in the locking mechanism, which can be remotely controlled by a remote energy source. Figure 3A and Figure 3A1 As shown, the rotating mechanism 450C includes two rotating sub-mechanisms, a first sub-mechanism 450C1 is responsible for rotating the third member 402C counterclockwise, and a second sub-mechanism 450C2 is responsible for rotating the third member 402C clockwise.

[0101] The rotation mechanism 450C can be implemented in a variety of ways. In this non-limiting example, the rotation mechanism includes an actuator (such as 452C1 of the sub-mechanism 450C1) having a fixed connection with the third member 402C, and the actuator is configured to be remotely activated by a remote energy source to engage with the interaction area 454C1 having a fixed connection with the first member 100C, so that the engagement causes the rotational movement of the third member 402C.

[0102] For example, as shown, the interaction region 454C1 includes a series of teeth / ridges and valleys with which the actuator 452C1 interacts. The interaction region can extend within a predetermined distance defined by the length of the elongated bendable member. In addition, the tooth size defines the step size of the rotational motion that occurs and the corresponding release or locking portion of the bendable structure. More specifically, the actuator 452C1 is made of a shape memory material (e.g., nitinol) that is configured to move from a disengaged position to an engaged position when heated by energy absorbed from a remote energy source, in which the actuator pushes against the teeth of the interaction region and causes the third member 402C to rotate. A similar configuration of a rotational mechanism is described in WO2018229766A1 assigned to the assignee of the present invention.

[0103] It should be understood that in addition to the bendable structure, the described rotation mechanism can be incorporated into any of the above-mentioned devices to achieve independent displacement of the IOL along the θ (theta) direction, that is, to achieve rotation of the IOL around the optical axis so that two independent displacements along and around the optical axis can be obtained.

[0104] refer to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , showing another non-limiting example of a device 10D incorporating features of the present invention. Figure 4A is a front view of the device 10D; Fig.4A1 is a close-up view of the bendable structure in device 10D; Figure 4B showing the tilt of the IOL about a first axis; and Figure 4C Tilt of the IOL about a first axis and a second axis is shown.

[0105] Device 10D shows a pure tilt mechanism. However, it should be understood that the tilt mechanism can also be integrated with one of the above-mentioned Z-direction displacement mechanisms.

[0106] like Figure 4A As shown, the device 10D includes a first member 100D, a second member 200D, and a bendable structure 300D connected between the first member and the second member, the first member 100D is configured to be fixedly positioned in the lens capsule, and the second member 200D includes a cavity 202D configured to hold an IOL.

[0107] The bendable structure 300D comprises a plurality of elongated bendable members, specifically two bendable members 300DY1 and 300DY2, which have a first end 300DFE (at Fig.4A1The first bendable member 300DY1 and the second bendable member 300DY2 are attached to the second member 200D (specifically, the first part 200D1 of the second member) and are permanently / fixedly attached to the second end 300DSE of the second member 200D (specifically, the first part 200D1 of the second member). The two bendable members 300DY1 and 300DY2 are located on opposite sides relative to the second member and the IOL when attached. Each bendable member can be twisted around its longitudinal axis. As shown in the figure, in the default starting configuration, when the periphery of the IOL is not displaced along the Z axis, each bendable member is preloaded by twisting around its longitudinal axis. The bendable member is at least partially made of shape memory material, which can be controlled to change its shape when absorbing energy from a remote energy source. The first bendable member (e.g., 300DY1) can be twisted in a clockwise direction with a certain amount of twisting, so that each activation causes a relief of twisting, which is then converted into a limited degree of IOL tilt in the counterclockwise direction. The second bendable member 300DY2 can be twisted in a counterclockwise direction with a certain amount of twisting, so that each activation results in a relief of the twisting, which then translates into a defined degree of tilting of the IOL in a clockwise direction. Figure 4B 4B1 includes two bendable members 300DY1 and 300DY2 that allow a single second member 200D to rotate around an axis S1.

[0108] In some embodiments, such as in this non-limiting example, the second member may include two parts that can rotate relative to each other, thereby adding another dimension of the tilt direction of the IOL. Figure 4C As shown, the second member 200D includes a first portion 200D1 rotatable in the S1 direction using a first pair of bendable members 300DY1 and 300DY2 and a second portion 200D2 rotatable in the S2 direction using a second pair of bendable members 300DX1 and 300DX2.

[0109] In some embodiments, devices of the present invention (such as those described above) are enclosed in a housing that helps protect and safeguard the movable and functional parts of the device (e.g., bendable structures and locking mechanisms) and prevent the risk of clogging and restricted movement due to interaction of the movable and functional parts with physiological media within the body (e.g., within the eye capsule that receives the device to retain the IOL).

[0110] refer to FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B, a first non-limiting example of a device 20 incorporating features of the present invention is shown. As shown, the device 20 includes a housing / cover / shell 200, which is transparent to incident light on at least the sides / surfaces 210A and 210B that are in contact with the optical path of light entering the eye, and is intended to accommodate and protect any of the above-mentioned devices. Specifically, the device 20 protects the movable and functional parts of the above-mentioned devices (such as bendable structures and locking mechanisms), and prevents the risk of blockage and restricted movement due to the interaction of the movable and functional parts with physiological media in the body. In this non-limiting example, a device 20 is shown in which the device 10B is enclosed inside the housing 200, such as Figure 5B 20 is shown with a portion of the device 20 removed. In addition, the device 20 is shown with two peripheral haptics 220 that facilitate implantation of the device 20 into the eye capsule along with the enclosed device 10B. It should be understood that the device 20 can be adjusted relative to the enclosed device and can be configured in a variety of ways.

[0111] refer to FIG. 5C to FIG. 5D , second and third non-limiting examples of devices 30A and 30B incorporating features of the present invention are shown. Figure 5C As shown, device 30A includes a housing 310A that includes walls 310A1 and 310A2 extending above and below device 10B along axis Z and does not include a transparent surface / cover that interfaces with the optical path of light entering the eye. Figure 5D As shown, device 30B includes a housing 310B, which includes walls 310B1 and 310B2 extending above and below device 10B along axis Z and does not include a transparent surface / cover that interfaces with the optical path of light entering the eye. Specifically, devices 30A and 30B protect the movable and functional parts of the above devices (such as bendable structures and locking mechanisms) by preventing the eye capsule wall from collapsing onto the movable / functional parts of device 10B, thereby preventing the risk of blockage and restricted movement of the movable and functional parts. Figure 5DIn a specific example, the walls 310B1 and 310B2 of the device are configured in a wavy structure (e.g., in the form of hills 310BH and valleys 310BV that facilitate the foldability of the device 30B) to facilitate its insertion into the ocular capsule through a slit in the eye wall that is as small as possible. The device 30B includes three hills (ridges, protrusions) and three valleys on each wall side. Each hill on the wall 310B1 faces a valley on the wall 310B2. In these non-limiting examples, the devices 30A and 30B are shown as having two peripheral tactile members 320A and 320B, respectively, which facilitate implantation of the devices 30A and 30B into the ocular capsule together with the encapsulated device 10B. It should be understood that the devices 30A and 30B can be adjusted relative to the encapsulated device and can be configured in various ways.

[0112] It will therefore be appreciated that the present invention provides a powerful technique for controllable and precise remote displacement of an IOL along its optical axis after implantation to adjust the position of the IOL and enable it to function properly.

Claims

1. A device configured to be implanted in a lens capsule of a human eye, the device securely retaining an intraocular lens (IOL) and operable to displace the IOL relative to an optical axis of the IOL, the device comprising: a first member configured to be fixedly positioned within the lens capsule; a second member to which the IOL can be fixedly attached; and A bendable structure attached at a first end thereof to the first member and at a second end thereof to the second member; the bendable structure is configured to be remotely controllably bendable at various bending levels to change the position of the periphery of the IOL along the optical axis of the IOL when the IOL is attached to the second member.

2. The device according to claim 1 includes a locking mechanism, which is configured to be remotely controllable and operable to at least partially lock one or more portions of the bendable structure to the first member or the second member or release it from the first member or the second member, thereby changing the position of the periphery of the IOL along the optical axis of the IOL when the IOL is attached to the second member.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The locking mechanism is operable to at least partially lock or release the one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member such that a first plane and a second plane defined by the first member and the second member, respectively, remain parallel therebetween and perpendicular to the optical axis of the IOL during a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL along the optical axis of the IOL.

4. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The locking mechanism is operable to at least partially lock or release the one or more portions of the bendable structure to or from the first member or the second member such that during a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL along the optical axis of the IOL, a first plane defined by the first member becomes inclined relative to a second plane defined by the second member.

5. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The locking mechanism includes a plurality of remotely controllable locks, each of the locks being configured to lock and release a portion of the bendable structure to and from the first member or the second member.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The bendable structure includes a plurality of elongated bendable members, each of the elongated bendable members having a first end permanently attached to the first member and a second end permanently attached to the second member.

7. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The locking mechanism includes at least two groups of remotely controllable locking members, and the bendable structure includes at least two corresponding elongated bendable members, each group of controllable locking members is capable of operating to lock the corresponding elongated bendable member to the first member or the second member or release it from the first member or the second member, and each group of controllable locking members includes a plurality of controllable locking members arranged in a locking member array, so that sequential activation of the locking members in the locking member array causes the corresponding parts of the elongated bendable member to be locked or released.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein: Symmetrical activation of individual controllable locks belonging to different groups of the controllable locks results in a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the IOL.

9. The device according to claim 7, wherein: Asymmetric activation of individual controllable locks belonging to different groups of the controllable locks results in a change in the position of the periphery of the IOL in an oblique direction relative to the optical axis of the IOL.

10. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The locking mechanism includes a third member adjacent to the first member, so that the bendable structure is encapsulated between the first member and the third member, and rotating the third member relative to the first member causes the one or more portions of the bendable structure to be locked to or released from the first member and changes the position of the periphery of the IOL along the optical axis of the IOL.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The bendable structure includes a plurality of elongated bendable members, at least some of the elongated bendable members having a first end permanently attached to the first member, and at least some of the elongated members having a second end permanently attached to the second member, each of the plurality of elongated bendable members being capable of twisting around its longitudinal axis, the elongated bendable members being arranged in one or more pairs, the two elongated bendable members in the pair being located on opposite sides relative to the second member, and remotely controlling the degree of twisting of the two elongated bendable members in the pair causing the IOL to tilt around an axis passing through the two elongated bendable members in the pair when the IOL is attached to the second member.

12. The device of claim 1, configured and operable to displace the IOL in at least one of an anterior or posterior direction relative to the first member when attached to the second member.

13. The device of claim 1, configured and operable to at least partially reversibly displace the IOL when attached to the second member.

14. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The bendable structure is made of a shape memory material processed such that the default shape of the bendable structure is in its fully open state, wherein the locking mechanism is operable to change the position of the bendable structure between the fully closed state and the fully open state.

15. The device according to claim 5, wherein: Each of the controllable locking elements is made of a shape memory material, which is processed so that at body temperature the locking element is in a closed state locking the corresponding part of the bendable structure, and when heated to a predetermined temperature, the locking element is transformed into an open state releasing the corresponding part of the bendable structure by absorbing energy from a remote energy source.

16. The device according to claim 11, wherein The bendable structure is made of a shape memory material which is processed so that at body temperature the default shape of each elongated bendable member is in its fully twisted state and so that when heated to a predetermined temperature the elongated bendable member transforms into a less twisted state by absorbing energy from a remote energy source.

17. The device according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein: The shape memory material includes Nitinol.

18. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The device can be folded so that the device can pass through approximately 2.54 mm 2 A cross section or a circular diameter of about 1.8 mm.

19. The device according to claim 5, wherein: The locking piece is configured to be attachable to a corresponding point on the first member or the second member mechanically or by laser welding or gluing or a combination thereof.

20. The device according to claim 19, wherein The locking element may be reversibly mechanically attachable to the first member or the second member by clamping or a male-female arrangement.

21. The device according to claim 11, wherein The bendable member comprises ordered grooves and protrusions on a side thereof facing the first member or the second member, which grooves and protrusions match the ordered protrusions and grooves at the opposite side of the first member or the second member, and the locking mechanism comprises a plurality of remotely controllable locking members, each of the locking members being configured to lock a portion of the bendable member to the first member or the second member and release it from the first member or the second member, the locking members being aligned with the protrusions of the bendable member in their locked state, and being aligned with the protrusions of the first member or the second member in their unlocked state.

22. An IOL adjustment system, comprising: The device according to any one of claims 1 to 21; and A remote energy source is configured and operable to provide the energy to heat one or more portions of the device.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein: The remote energy source includes a radiating element.

24. The system of claim 22, wherein: The remote energy source includes a laser source.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein: The laser source is configured and operable to provide continuous laser radiation.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein: The laser source is configured as an argon laser source operable to provide light in the green spectrum.

27. The system of claim 24, wherein: The laser source is configured and operable to provide a laser power between 0.1-5 Watts and a laser pulse width between 200-1000 milliseconds.

28. The system of claim 22, wherein: The remote energy source comprises an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and the one or more parts of the device comprise corresponding electromagnetic radiation receivers.

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