Contact lens package with absorbent member

Abstract

The present invention relates to improved contact lens packages and methods of use and manufacture / assembly. The contact lens package may include a first cavity containing a contact lens and a packaging solution and a second cavity containing an absorbent member. In one aspect, the first cavity and the second cavity may be fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in an unsealed state.

Description

I. BACKGROUND ART

[0001] In a conventional contact lens package, the contact lens is typically located in a molded plastic base having a cavity (or "bowl") that houses the contact lens with the concave side facing up. Thus, the user experience for transferring the contact lens from the package to the eye typically involves the user "fishing out" the contact lens from the bowl with a finger and then flipping the lens so that it is in the correct orientation on the finger for placement on the eye. This process requires multiple touches of the lens, which can transfer contaminants or pathogens from the hand to the lens and ultimately to the eye. This operating experience is not only unhygienic, but also overly cumbersome, messy, and mechanically stressful on the lens, which can tear, rip, or deform when over-manipulated. Although some packages have been designed to present the lens with the convex side facing up to avoid the need to flip the lens, it is still generally necessary to "fish out" the lens from the packaging solution or otherwise manipulate the lens and / or touch the lens multiple times to effect transfer of the lens to the eye.

[0002] Given the increasing awareness surrounding eye health and the customer demand for a more convenient experience, there has emerged a need for contact lens packaging that enables a less messy and more hygienic contact lens handling process. The solution in which the lens is packaged can affect the releasability of the lens from the package and the finger. That is, the liquid solution in the bowl makes it more difficult to remove the lens from the bowl because the hydrophilic lens with excess liquid reduces the surface tension between the human finger and the lens, making it difficult to achieve sufficient adhesion between the lens and the finger and thus difficult to remove the lens from the package.

[0003] Among other considerations: Wearers desire the ability to drain any packaging solution that may affect the ability to adhere the lens to the finger, as variations in the amount of packaging solution adhering to the lens and the package can affect the process of placing the lens on the finger. An apparatus for effectively draining the packaging solution from the lens within the package before removing the lens from the opened contact lens package onto the user's finger may facilitate the removal and insertion process.

[0004] There is still a need for a contact lens package that provides an apparatus for consistently draining solution from the contact lens. II. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It has now been found that some or all of the above and related objects can be achieved in a contact lens package having one or more aspects described herein. According to certain embodiments, a contact lens package can include a first chamber that houses a contact lens and a packaging solution and a second chamber that houses an absorbent member. As described herein, in some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the first chamber and the second chamber can be fluidly isolated from each other, and when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber can be in fluid communication with each other. In certain embodiments, the package can be configured such that when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state, at least a portion of the packaging solution, and in some cases a majority of the packaging solution, flows from the first chamber into the second chamber. Thus, as described herein, the absorbent member can be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution, and in some cases a majority of the packaging solution, when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state, the flow of the packaging solution from the first chamber into the second chamber can cause a significant amount of the packaging solution to be drained from the contact lens, thereby improving the ability to adhere the lens to the user's finger for removal from the package and placement onto the user's eye. Additionally, including an absorbent member in the second chamber of the package can improve the user experience by reducing the spillage of the packaging solution associated with the opened package, as a significant amount of the solution can be absorbed and contained by the absorbent member. The present disclosure provides various embodiments of contact lens packages, methods of packaging contact lenses, and methods of opening contact lens packages.

[0006] In one aspect, a contact lens package is provided. The contact lens package can include a first chamber that houses a contact lens and a packaging solution and a second chamber that houses an absorbent member. When the package is in an unopened state, the first chamber and the second chamber can be fluidly isolated from each other.

[0007] In some embodiments, when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber may be in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the package may be configured such that when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, at least a portion of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber. In some embodiments, the package may be configured such that when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, a majority of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member may be in the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member may be in the compressed state, and the absorbent member may be configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a superabsorbent polymer.

[0008] In some embodiments, the contact lens package may further include a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein a first cavity is formed between the base and the lid, and wherein a second cavity is formed between the base and the lid. In some embodiments, the base and the lid may jointly enclose the first cavity, and the base and the lid may jointly enclose the second cavity. In some embodiments, the base and the lid may jointly define the first cavity, and the base and the lid may jointly define the second cavity. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may be sealed to the base along the interface between the first cavity and the second cavity, and when the package is in an opened state, the seal between the lid and the base may be at least partially broken. In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the first cavity, and the lid may be sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the second cavity. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the contact lens, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may not cover the contact lens. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may not cover the absorbent member. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may at least partially extend over the absorbent member. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in an unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in an opened state, the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in an unopened state, the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the base. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the lid.

[0009] In some embodiments, the base may include a lens support that supports a contact lens within a cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may include an inner surface having a convex shape, and the inner surface of the lens support may engage a concave surface of the contact lens. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the lens support may define a portion of a first cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may further include an outer surface that is disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and has a concave shape. In some embodiments, the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support may be configured to receive a raised portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating stacking of multiple packages in a nested manner. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the lens support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may not cover the lens support. In some embodiments, the base may further include an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within a second cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may include an inner surface having a planar shape. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the absorbent member support may define a portion of a second cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may further include an outer surface that is disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and has a planar shape. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may not cover the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may at least partially extend over the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may be disposed adjacent to the lens support. In some embodiments, the lens support may extend over the absorbent member support and may be configured to facilitate drainage of a packaging solution to the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the base may be generally rigid, and the lid may be flexible. In some embodiments, the base may be flexible, and the lid may be flexible. In some embodiments, the lid may include a foil layer.

[0010] In some embodiments, the base may include a barrier disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber when the package is in the unopened state. In some embodiments, when the package is in the unopened state, the lid may be sealed to the barrier such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state. In some embodiments, when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the lid may be unsealed from the barrier such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the barrier may define an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, and the lid may block the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and the opening may be unlocked by the lid when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens package may further include a door, the barrier may define an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, and the door may block the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and the opening may be unlocked by the door when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the door may be connected to the lid and move with the lid. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be spaced apart from each other. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be arranged concentrically.

[0011] In another aspect, a contact lens package is provided. The contact lens package may include a base and a lid connected to the base. The base and the lid may jointly define a first chamber for receiving a contact lens and a packaging solution, and the base and the lid may jointly define a second chamber for receiving an absorbent member. When the package is in the unopened state, the first chamber and the second chamber may be fluidly isolated from each other.

[0012] In some embodiments, when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber may be in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the package may be configured such that when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, at least a portion of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber. In some embodiments, the package may be configured such that when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, a majority of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member may be in the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member may be in the compressed state, and the absorbent member may be configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a superabsorbent polymer.

[0013] In some embodiments, a first chamber may be formed between the base and the lid, and a second chamber may be formed between the base and the lid. In some embodiments, the base and the lid may jointly enclose the first chamber, and the base and the lid may jointly enclose the second chamber. In some embodiments, when the package is in the unopened state, the lid may be sealed to the base along the interface between the first chamber and the second chamber, and when the package is in the opened state, the seal between the lid and the base may be at least partially broken. In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the first chamber, and the lid may be sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the second chamber. In some embodiments, when the package is in the unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the contact lens, and when the package is in the opened state, the lid may not cover the contact lens. In some embodiments, when the package is in the unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member, and when the package is in the opened state, the lid may not cover the absorbent member. In some embodiments, when the package is in the unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member, and when the package is in the opened state, the lid may at least partially extend over the absorbent member. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be disposed within the first chamber such that when the package is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be disposed within the first chamber such that when the package is in the opened state, the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be disposed within the first chamber such that when the package is in the unopened state, the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the base. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the lid.

[0014] In some embodiments, the base may include a lens support that supports a contact lens within a cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may include an inner surface having a convex shape, and the inner surface of the lens support may engage a concave surface of the contact lens. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the lens support may define a portion of a first cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may further include an outer surface that is disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and has a concave shape. In some embodiments, the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support may be configured to receive a raised portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating stacking of multiple packages in a nested manner. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the lens support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may not cover the lens support. In some embodiments, the base may further include an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within a second cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may include an inner surface having a planar shape. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the absorbent member support may define a portion of a second cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may further include an outer surface that is disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and has a planar shape. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may not cover the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, when the package is in an unopened state, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid may extend at least partially over the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may be disposed adjacent to the lens support. In some embodiments, the lens support may extend over the absorbent member support and may be configured to facilitate drainage of a packaging solution to the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the base may be generally rigid, and the lid may be flexible. In some embodiments, the base may be flexible, and the lid may be flexible. In some embodiments, the lid may include a foil layer.

[0015] In some embodiments, the base may include a barrier disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber when the package is in the unopened state. In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the barrier when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state. In some embodiments, when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the lid may be unsealed from the barrier such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the barrier may define an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, and the lid may block the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and the opening may be unlocked by the lid when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens package may further include a door, the barrier may define an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, and the door may block the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and the opening may be unlocked by the door when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the door may be connected to the lid and move with the lid when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be spaced apart from each other. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be arranged concentrically. In some embodiments, the second chamber may surround the first chamber.

[0016] In yet another aspect, a method of packaging contact lenses is provided. The method may include: disposing the contact lenses and the packaging solution in a first chamber of a package; disposing an absorbent member in a second chamber of the package; and enclosing each of the first chamber and the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state.

[0017] In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a superabsorbent polymer. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be spaced apart from each other. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be arranged concentrically. In some embodiments, the package may include a base and a lid, the first chamber may be formed between the base and the lid, the second chamber may be formed between the base and the lid, and enclosing each of the first chamber and the second chamber may include connecting the lid to the base such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other.

[0018] In another aspect, a method of opening a contact lens package is provided. The method may include holding the package, where the package includes a first chamber that houses a contact lens and a packaging solution and a second chamber that houses an absorbent member, and the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other. The method may further include: at least partially opening the first chamber such that the contact lens is uncovered; and at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other may include allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution to flow away from the contact lens. In some embodiments, at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other may include allowing most of the packaging solution to flow away from the contact lens. In some embodiments, at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other may include allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution to flow to the absorbent member. In some embodiments, at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other may include allowing most of the packaging solution to flow to the absorbent member. In some embodiments, at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other may include allowing the absorbent member to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution. In some embodiments, at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other may include allowing the absorbent member to absorb most of the packaging solution. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include a superabsorbent polymer. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be spaced apart from each other. In some embodiments, the first chamber and the second chamber may be arranged concentrically. In some embodiments, the package may include a base and a lid, the first chamber may be formed between the base and the lid, the second chamber may be formed between the base and the lid, at least partially opening the first chamber may include at least partially separating the lid from the base, and at least partially opening the second chamber may include further separating the lid from the base.

[0020] These and other aspects and improvements of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. III. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of certain embodiments of the disclosure as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state.

[0023] Figure 1B Is Figure 1A An exploded perspective view of a contact lens package, showing the base, lid, contact lens, and absorbent member of the contact lens package.

[0024] Figure 1C Is taken along Figure 1A Line 1C-1C of Figure 1A A cross-sectional side view of the contact lens package, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state, where the contact lens and packaging solution are contained in a first cavity of the contact lens package and where the absorbent member is contained in a second cavity of the contact lens package.

[0025] Figure 1D Is Figure 1A A cross-sectional side view of the contact lens package, showing the contact lens package in an opened state, where the lid is at least partially removed from the base such that at least a portion of the packaging solution drains from the contact lens and is absorbed by the absorbent member, and the contact lens is exposed for removal by the user.

[0026] Figure 2A Is a perspective view of an exemplary contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state.

[0027] Figure 2B Is Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of the contact lens package, showing the base, lid, door, contact lens, and absorbent member of the contact lens package.

[0028] Figure 2C Is taken along Figure 2A Line 2C-2C of Figure 2A A cross-sectional side view of the contact lens package, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state, where the contact lens and packaging solution are contained in a first cavity of the contact lens package, where the absorbent member is contained in a second cavity of the contact lens package, and where the door blocks an opening between the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0029] Figure 2D Is Figure 2A A cross-sectional side view of the contact lens package, showing the contact lens package in an opened state, where the lid is at least partially removed from the base such that at least a portion of the packaging solution drains from the contact lens and is absorbed by the absorbent member, the opening is no longer blocked by the door, and the contact lens is exposed for removal by the user.

[0030] Figure 3A Is a perspective view of an exemplary contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state.

[0031] Figure 3B Is Figure 3A An exploded perspective view of a contact lens package, showing the base, lid, contact lens, and absorbent member of the contact lens package.

[0032] Figure 3C Is taken along Figure 3A Line 3C-3C of Figure 3A A cross-sectional side view of the contact lens package, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state, where the contact lens and the packaging solution are housed in a first chamber of the contact lens package and where the absorbent member is housed in a second chamber of the contact lens package.

[0033] Figure 3D Is Figure 3A A cross-sectional side view of the contact lens package, showing the contact lens package in an opened state, where the lid is at least partially removed from the base such that at least a portion of the packaging solution drains away from the contact lens and is absorbed by the absorbent member, and the contact lens is exposed for removal by the user. IV. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Reference will now be made specifically to representative embodiments shown in the drawings, in which reference numerals indicate certain elements. The following description is not intended to limit the numerous embodiments to one preferred embodiment. Instead, it is intended to cover alternative forms, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0035] References to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "some embodiments", "example embodiments", etc. mean that the embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, aspect, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, aspect, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it should be considered within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to implement such particular feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0036] A lens or contact lens refers to an ophthalmic device that resides on the eye. They have a generally hemispherical shape and can provide optical correction, cosmetic enhancement, UV blocking, and reduction of visible light or glare, therapeutic effects, including wound healing, drug or nutrient delivery, diagnostic assessment or monitoring, or any combination thereof. The term lens includes soft hydrogel contact lenses, which are typically provided to consumers in a hydrated state in a package and have a relatively low modulus, which allows them to conform to the cornea. Contact lenses suitable for use with the packages of the present invention include all hydrated contact lenses, including conventional and silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

[0037] A hydrogel is a hydrated crosslinked polymer system that contains water in equilibrium and may contain at least about 25% or at least 35% water in the hydrated state. Hydrogels generally have oxygen permeability and biocompatibility, making them an excellent material for the production of contact lenses.

[0038] Conventional hydrogel contact lenses do not contain silicone-containing components and generally have a higher water content, lower oxygen permeability, modulus, and shape memory than silicone hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels are prepared from monomer mixtures mainly containing hydrophilic monomers such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (“HEMA”), N-vinylpyrrolidone (“NVP”), or polyvinyl alcohol. U.S. Patent Nos. 4,495,313, 4,889,664, and 5,039,459 disclose the formation of conventional hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels can be ionic or nonionic and include polymacon, etafilcon, nelfilcon, ocufilcon, lenefilcon, etc. The oxygen permeability of these conventional hydrogel materials is generally less than 20 barrers - 30 barrers.

[0039] Silicone hydrogel formulations include balafilcon, samfilcon, lotrafilcon A and B, delfilcon, galyfilcon, senofilcon A, B and C, narafilcon, comfilcon, formofilcon, riofilcon, fanfilcon, stenfilcon, somofilcon, kalifilcon, etc. "Organic silicone hydrogel" refers to a polymer network made of at least one hydrophilic component and at least one silicone-containing component. The organic silicone hydrogel may have a modulus in the range of 60 psi - 200 psi, 60 psi - 150 psi or 80 psi - 130 psi, and a water content in the range of 20% to 60%.Examples of silicone hydrogels include acquafilcon, asmofilcon, balafilcon, comfilcon, delefilcon, enfilcon, fanfilcon, formofilcon, galyfilcon, lotrafilcon, narafilcon, riofilcon, samfilcon, senofilcon, somofilcon, and stenfilcon, verofilcon, including all their variants, and silicone hydrogels prepared as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,659,782, 4,659,783, 5,244,981, 5,314,960, 5,331,067, 5,371,147, 5,998,498, 6,087,415, 5,760,100, 5,776,999, 5,789,461, 5,849,811, 5,965,631, 6,367,929, 6,822,016, 6,867,245, 6,943,203, 7,247,692, 7,249,848, 7,553,880, 7,666,921, 7,786,185, 7,956,131, 8,022,158, 8,273,802, 8,399,538, 8,470,906, 8,450,387, 8,487,058, 8,507,577, 8,637,621, 8,703,891, 8,937,110, 8,937,111, 8,940,812, 9,056,878, 9,057,821, 9,125,808, 9,140,825, 9156,934, 9,170,349, 9,244,196, 9,244,197, 9,260,544, 9,297,928, 9,297,929, and WO 03 / 22321, WO 2008 / 061992, and US2010 / 0048847. These patents are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Silicone hydrogels can have a higher shape memory than conventional contact lenses.

[0040] Hydrogel lenses are viscoelastic materials. If the lens interacts with the package or any air bubbles in the package, optical distortion can form in the contact lens. The degree of optical distortion and the length of time required for the distortion to relax will depend on the chemical composition and, to a lesser extent, on the geometry of the lens. Conventional lens materials, such as lenses based on hydroxyethyl methacrylate like etafilcon A or polymacon, have lower loss modulus and loss tangent values compared to silicone hydrogels and may form less severe optical distortion due to contact with the package. Incorporating silicone (which generally increases the overall elastic response), wetting agents such as PVP (which generally increases the viscous response), or a coating of a conventional hydrogel material (which may reduce the elastic response at the lens interface) can alter the viscoelasticity of the lens. Conventional hydrogel contact lenses and silicone hydrogel contact lenses with short or stiff crosslinkers and / or hardeners have short shape memory and may be less prone to deformation during storage. As used herein, after 5 weeks of accelerated aging at 55 °C, hydrogels with high or higher shape memory exhibit an optical distortion of at least about 0.18 due to contact with air bubbles or the package. Dynamic mechanical analysis can be used to measure viscoelasticity, including loss modulus and loss tangent values.

[0041] The contact lens can be of any geometry or diopter and has a generally hemispherical shape with a concave posterior side that abuts against the eye during use and a convex anterior side that faces away from the eye and is contacted by the eyelid during blinking.

[0042] The center or vertex of the lens is the center of the lens visual zone. The visual zone provides optical correction and can have a diameter between about 7 mm and about 10 mm. The lens perimeter or lens edge is the edge where the anterior and posterior sides meet.

[0043] Wetting the lens is any residual packaging solution that adheres to the contact lens and the package solution after drainage. Wetting contact is the total contact area between the wetting lens and the lens support.

[0044] Embodiments can include a lens support surrounded by a sealable chamber, which can also be interchangeably referred to as a chamber. The chamber can have any convenient form and can include a package base and at least one cap, each of which will be described in detail below. As used herein, the phrases "the cap", "cap", "the base", and "base" encompass both the singular and the plural. The cap and the package base are sealed to each other to form a chamber that keeps the contact lens, the support, and the packaging solution sterile during transportation and storage prior to use. The contact lens package is made of a material that is compatible with the contact lens and the solution and is steam-sterilizable and biocompatible.

[0045] "Film" or "multilayer film" is a film used to seal a package and is commonly referred to as a lidstock. The multilayer films used in conventional contact lens packages can be used as a base, a component of the lid, or both, in the packages of the present invention. The multilayer film includes multiple layers, including a barrier layer, including a foil layer, or a coating, a sealing layer that seals the film to the rest of the package, and may also include additional layers selected from a peel initiation layer, a laminate layer, and layers that improve other packaging properties such as stiffness, temperature resistance, printability, puncture resistance, barrier to water or oxygen, etc. The multilayer film forms a steam sterilizable (retortable) seal. The multilayer film may comprise a PET, BON, or OPP film layer to increase stiffness and temperature resistance, or an EVOH or PVDC coating to improve the barrier to oxygen or moisture.

[0046] As used herein, "unsealed state" or "unsealed" refers to a contact lens package that is closed and contains a contact lens in solution.

[0047] As used herein, "opened state" or "opened" refers to a contact lens package after the sterile seal has been breached. Depending on the context described herein, the opened state extends to the package state when the user has manipulated the package to lift the lens out of the packaging solution for transfer by the user.

[0048] As used herein, "wearer" or "user" refers to a person who opens a contact lens package. The user is typically the person who opens the package and transfers the contact lens contained therein to their eye. However, in some cases, the user can be a person who operates the lens package on behalf of the wearer, such as an eye care provider ("ECP") or other individual who demonstrates or assists the wearer.

[0049] The packaging solution is any physiologically compatible solution that is compatible with the material of the selected lens and the package. The packaging solution includes a buffered solution having a physiological pH, such as a buffered saline solution. The packaging solution may contain known components, including buffers, pH and tonicity regulators, lubricants, wetting agents, nutrients, drugs, package coating components, etc.

[0050] The package base can form the bottom of the package. It can be made of any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including plastics. The package lid typically resides in the upper portion of the package and is sealed to the base to form a cavity that houses at least a portion of the lens support, the lens, and the packaging solution. The lid can be made of any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including molded foil or plastic sheets, laminate films, or plastics. Packages including plastics for one structure and foil or laminate films for another structure, or packages including foil or laminate films as the outer layer of the lid and the base, are known in the art and are examples of suitable combinations.

[0051] References throughout this description to the use of injection molding processes and materials commonly applied to injection molding should be understood as exemplary. Those skilled in the art will understand that other manufacturing methods are possible within the scope of the appended claims, including but not limited to alternative molding processes, thermoforming, 3D printing, etc. Similarly, references to heat sealing are examples of the embodiments described herein. Other ways of securing the packaging components will be apparent to those skilled in the art, including the use of adhesives, glues, heat bonding, welding such as heat, ultrasonic or laser welding, or mechanical traps, etc.

[0052] Certain aspects of the present invention can be used to reduce or prevent significant optical damage to contact lenses due to interactions within the bubble or lens package that may occur during storage or transportation due to gravity or other forces such as mechanical pressure applied from outside the package. As used herein, significant optical damage means a root mean square (RMS) value equal to or greater than about 0.08 μm.

[0053] Now referring to the drawings, Figures 1A to 1D An example contact lens package 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As described, the contact lens package 100 may include a base 110, a lid 150, a contact lens 160, a packaging solution 170, and an absorbent member 180. The contact lens package 100 may have an unopened state as Figure 1A and Figure 1C shown and an opened state as Figure 1DThe unsealed state shown. When the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the contact lens 160 and the packaging solution 170 can be accommodated in the first cavity 122 formed between the base 110 and the lid 150, and the absorbent member 180 can be accommodated in the second cavity 124 formed between the base 110 and the lid 150. As described below, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the first cavity 122 and the second cavity 124 can be fluidly isolated from each other, which can cause the packaging solution 170 to be disposed around and in contact with the contact lens 160 to maintain hydration of the lens 160. Thus, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the packaging solution 170 can be accommodated in the first cavity 122, while the second cavity 124 and the absorbent member 180 accommodated therein can be free of any packaging solution 170. When desired, the user can unseal the contact lens package 100 by at least partially removing the lid 150 from the base 110 to allow access to the contact lens 160. This unsealing of the contact lens package 100 can cause the first cavity 122 and the second cavity 124 to be in fluid communication with each other, allowing the packaging solution 170 to flow from the first cavity 122 into the second cavity 124 such that the absorbent member 180 absorbs a substantial amount of the packaging solution 170, effectively draining the packaging solution 170 from the contact lens 160. Such draining of the packaging solution 170 from the contact lens 160 can allow the user to more easily remove the contact lens 160 from the contact lens package 100. At least partially removing the lid 150 from the base 110 can expose the contact lens 160, allowing the user to engage and remove the contact lens 150 with the user's finger. As shown, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the lens support 130 of the base 110 can hold the contact lens 160 in position and orientation within the cavity 122. As Figure 1C shown, the contact lens 160 can be accommodated in the first cavity 122 and supported by the lens support 130 such that when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens 160 faces the lid 150. Thus, when the contact lens package 100 is unsealed, the user can engage the convex surface to remove the contact lens 160 and then place the contact lens 160 on the user's eye, thereby achieving a simplified experience and avoiding the drawbacks of certain existing contact lens packages.

[0054] According to the illustrated example, the base 110 may have a first end 112 (which may also be referred to as the "rear end" in some embodiments) and a second end 114 (which may also be referred to as the "front end" in some embodiments) that are disposed opposite each other. As shown, the base 110 may have a first side 116 (which may also be referred to as the "top side" in some embodiments) and a second side 118 (which may also be referred to as the "bottom side" in some embodiments) that are disposed opposite each other and each extend from the first end 112 to the second end 114. The base 110 may also have a pair of side surfaces 120 that are disposed opposite each other and each extend from the first end 112 to the second end 114. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 110 may include certain portions having a planar shape and other portions having a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 110 may include a main portion having a planar shape, an absorbent member support 140 that is recessed relative to the main portion and has a planar shape, and a lens support 130 that extends upwardly from the absorbent member support 140 beyond the main portion and has a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 110 may define a first base cavity and a second base cavity, the first base cavity forming part of the overall first cavity 122 of the contact lens package 100, and the second base cavity forming part of the overall second cavity 124 of the contact lens package 100. In some embodiments, as shown, a barrier 126 of the base 110 may be disposed between the first cavity 122 and the second cavity 124. As discussed above, the base 110 may be formed of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, the base 110 may be generally rigid. In other embodiments, the base 110 may be flexible.

[0055] The lens support 130 may at least partially define a first cavity 122 and may support the contact lens 160 in a desired position and orientation within the first cavity 122. As shown, the lens support 130 may extend upward relative to the absorbent member support 140 and may support the contact lens 160 between the base 110 and the lid 150. In some embodiments, as shown, the lens support 130 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 110. In other embodiments, the lens support 130 may be formed separately and attached to the remainder of the base 110. In some embodiments, the lens support 130 may be provided as a separate component disposed within the first cavity 122 between the base 110 and the lid 150 and attached to the base 110, for example, by an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the lens support 130 may include an inner surface 132 (which may also be referred to as the "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the contact lens 160 within the cavity 122. In particular, the inner surface 132 may engage the concave surface of the contact lens 160. In some embodiments, the inner surface 132 may be a convex surface, but other shapes of the inner surface 132 may be used in other embodiments. As shown, the lens support 130 may be formed as a dome that extends upward from the absorbent member support 140, and the inner surface 132 may be the convex outer surface of the dome. As shown, the lens support 130 may include an outer surface 134 that is disposed opposite the inner surface 132 and defines an outer portion of the contact lens package 100. In some embodiments, the outer surface 134 may be a convex surface, the convex shape of which facilitates nesting of a plurality of contact lens packages 100 disposed adjacent to one another, such as in a stacked configuration, but other shapes of the outer surface 134 may be used in other embodiments. The lens support 130 may be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the lens support 130 may be generally rigid.

[0056] The absorbent member support 140 may at least partially define the second cavity 124 and may support the absorbent member 180 in a desired position and orientation within the second cavity 124. As shown, the absorbent member support 140 may be recessed relative to the main planar portion of the base 110 and may support the absorbent member 180 between the base 110 and the lid 150. In some embodiments, as shown, the absorbent member support 140 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 110. In other embodiments, the absorbent member support 140 may be formed separately and attached to the remainder of the base 110. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 140 may be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the second cavity 124 between the base 110 and the lid 150 and is attached to the base 110, for example, by an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the absorbent member support 140 may include an inner surface 142 (which may also be referred to as a "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the absorbent member 180 within the second cavity 124. In particular, the inner surface 142 may engage the bottom surface of the absorbent member 180. In some embodiments, as shown, the inner surface 142 may be a flat surface, but other contour shapes of the inner surface 142 may be used in other embodiments. As shown, the absorbent member support 140 may include an outer surface 144 that is disposed opposite the inner surface 142 and defines an outer portion of the contact lens package 100. In some embodiments, the outer surface 144 may be a flat surface, but other shapes of the outer surface 144 may be used in other embodiments. The absorbent member support 140 may be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 140 may be generally rigid.

[0057] The lid 150 may be connected to the base 110 and may extend over at least a portion of the base 110. As shown, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the lid 150 and the base 110 may seal the contact lens 160 and the packaging solution 170 within the first chamber 122 and may seal the absorbent member 180 within the second chamber 124. Thus, the base 110 and the lid 150 together may form each of a sealed first chamber 122 for receiving the contact lens 160 and the packaging solution 170 and a sealed second chamber 124 for receiving the absorbent member 180 until the user desires to open the contact lens package 100 and remove the contact lens 160 for use. In some embodiments, as shown, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the lid 150 may extend over and cover the lens support 130, the absorbent member support 140, and other corresponding portions of the base 110. When the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, corresponding portions of the lid 150 may be sealed to corresponding adjacent portions of the base 110, such as the barrier 126 and portions of the main body of the base 110 that surround the lens support 130 and the absorbent member support 140, such that the contact lens 160 and the packaging solution 170 are received within the first chamber 122 formed by the base 110 and the lid 150 and such that the absorbent member 180 is received within the second chamber 124 formed by the base 110 and the lid 150. When the contact lens package 100 is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state to remove the contact lens 160, the seal between the lid 150 and the base 110 may be at least partially broken. As discussed above, the lid 150 may be formed of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, as shown, the lid 150 may be flexible.

[0058] The absorbent member 180 can be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution 170 when the contact lens package 100 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, such that the first chamber 122 and the second chamber 124 are in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 can be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution 170 when the contact lens package 100 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 can be compressible and configured to transition between a compressed state and an expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 can be biased towards the expanded state. In some embodiments, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the absorbent member 180 can be in the expanded state. In some embodiments, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the absorbent member 180 can be in the compressed state, and when the contact lens package 100 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 180 can transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. Thus, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the absorbent member 180 can be compressed between the base 110 and the lid 150 and maintained in the compressed state, and when the contact lens package 100 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 180 can automatically transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. As discussed above, such a transition of the absorbent member 180 from the compressed state to the expanded state can allow the absorbent member 180 to rapidly absorb the packaging solution 170, thereby further facilitating the draining of the packaging solution 170 from the contact lens 160. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 can be formed of or can include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 can be formed of or can include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 can be formed of or can include a superabsorbent polymer. Various other suitable configurations and materials can be used for the absorbent member 180.

[0059] Figure 1C and Figure 1D illustrates an example method of opening a contact lens package 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, as Figure 1A and Figure 1C shown, the contact lens package 100 can be provided and stored in an unopened state until a user desires to open the package 100. In the case where the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the user can hold the base 110 and grasp an end region of the lid 150, such as an end region of the lid 150 that is not directly connected to the base 110, as Figure 1C shown. The user can at least partially remove the lid 150 from the base 110 by pulling the end region of the lid 150 away from the base 110. Thus, at least a portion of the seal between the lid 150 and the base 110 can be broken. As Figure 1DAs shown, the lid 150 can be removed from the base 110 such that at least a portion of the contact lens 160, the lens support 130, and the absorbent member 180 is no longer covered by the lid 150. In some embodiments, as shown, the entire absorbent member 180 can be exposed. In some embodiments, the lid 150 can be completely removed from the base 110. As discussed above, the lid 150 can be at least partially removed from the base 110 such that the first chamber 122 and the second chamber 124 are in fluid communication with each other, thereby allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 170 to flow from the first chamber 122 into the second chamber 124 and be absorbed by the absorbent member 180 and discharged from the contact lens 160. After the lid 150 is at least partially removed from the base 110, as Figure 1D shown, the user can engage the contact lens 160 while the contact lens 160 is exposed and supported by the lens support 130. According to the illustrated embodiment in which the lens support 130 supports the concave surface of the contact lens 160, the user can engage the convex surface of the contact lens 160 and remove the contact lens 160 from the lens support 130. As discussed above, by allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 170 to drain away from the contact lens 160 and be absorbed and contained by the absorbent member 180, the user can be enabled to easily engage and hold the contact lens 160 with the user's finger. In this way, the contact lens 160 can be conveniently removed from the lens support 130 and held on the user's finger in the desired concave-side-up orientation, ready to be positioned on the user's eye.

[0060] Figures 2A to 2D Illustrates another exemplary contact lens package 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described, the contact lens package 200 can include a base 210, a lid 250, a door 252, a contact lens 260, a packaging solution 270, and an absorbent member 280. The contact lens package 200 can have an unopened state as shown in Figure 2A and Figure 2C shown and an opened state as shown in Figure 2DThe opened state as shown. When the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the contact lens 260 and the packaging solution 270 can be accommodated in the first cavity 222 formed between the base 210 and the lid 250, and the absorbent member 280 can be accommodated in the second cavity 224 formed between the base 210 and the lid 250. As described below, when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the first cavity 222 and the second cavity 224 can be fluidly isolated from each other, which can cause the packaging solution 270 to be disposed around and in contact with the contact lens 260 to maintain hydration of the lens 260. Thus, when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the packaging solution 270 can be accommodated in the first cavity 222, while the second cavity 224 and the absorbent member 280 accommodated therein can be free of any packaging solution 270. When desired, the user can open the contact lens package 200 by at least partially removing the lid 250 from the base 210 to allow access to the contact lens 260. This opening of the contact lens package 200 can cause the first cavity 222 and the second cavity 224 to be in fluid communication with each other, allowing the packaging solution 270 to flow from the first cavity 222 into the second cavity 224 such that the absorbent member 280 absorbs a substantial amount of the packaging solution 270, effectively draining the packaging solution 270 from the contact lens 260. Such draining of the packaging solution 270 from the contact lens 260 can allow the user to more easily remove the contact lens 260 from the contact lens package 200. At least partially removing the lid 250 from the base 210 can expose the contact lens 260, allowing the user to engage and remove the contact lens 250 with the user's finger. As shown, when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the lens support 230 of the base 210 can hold the contact lens 260 in position and orientation within the cavity 222. As Figure 2C shown, the contact lens 260 can be accommodated in the first cavity 222 and supported by the lens support 230 such that when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens 260 faces the lid 250. Thus, when the contact lens package 200 is opened, the user can engage the convex surface to remove the contact lens 260 and then place the contact lens 260 on the user's eye, thereby achieving a simplified experience and avoiding the drawbacks of certain existing contact lens packages.

[0061] According to the illustrated example, the base 210 may have a first end 212 (also referred to as the “rear end” in some embodiments) and a second end 214 (also referred to as the “front end” in some embodiments) that are disposed opposite to each other. As shown, the base 210 may have a first side 216 (also referred to as the “top side” in some embodiments) and a second side 218 (also referred to as the “bottom side” in some embodiments) that are disposed opposite to each other and each extend from the first end 212 to the second end 214. The base 210 may also have a pair of side faces 220 that are disposed opposite to each other and each extend from the first end 212 to the second end 214. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 210 may include certain portions having a planar shape and other portions having a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 210 may include a main portion having a planar shape, an absorbent member support 240 that is recessed relative to the main portion and has a planar shape, and a lens support 230 that extends upwardly from the absorbent member support 240 beyond the main portion and has a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 210 may define a first base cavity and a second base cavity, the first base cavity forming part of an overall first cavity 222 of the contact lens package 200, and the second base cavity forming part of an overall second cavity 224 of the contact lens package 200. In some embodiments, as shown, a barrier 226 of the base 210 may be disposed between the first cavity 222 and the second cavity 224, and the barrier 226 may define an opening 228 that extends therethrough from the first cavity 222 to the second cavity 224. As discussed above, the base 210 may be formed of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, the base 210 may be generally rigid. In other embodiments, the base 210 may be flexible.

[0062] The lens support 230 can at least partially define a first cavity 222 and can support the contact lens 260 in a desired position and orientation within the first cavity 222. As shown, the lens support 230 can extend upward relative to the absorbent member support 240 and can support the contact lens 260 between the base 210 and the lid 250. In some embodiments, as shown, the lens support 230 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 210. In other embodiments, the lens support 230 can be separately formed and attached to the remainder of the base 210. In some embodiments, the lens support 230 can be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the first cavity 222 between the base 210 and the lid 250 and is attached to the base 210, for example, by an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the lens support 230 can include an inner surface 232 (which can also be referred to as the "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the contact lens 260 within the first cavity 222. In particular, the inner surface 232 can engage the concave surface of the contact lens 260. In some embodiments, the inner surface 232 can be a convex surface, but other shapes of the inner surface 232 can be used in other embodiments. As shown, the lens support 230 can be formed as a dome that extends upward from the absorbent member support 240, and the inner surface 232 can be the convex outer surface of the dome. As shown, the lens support 230 can include an outer surface 234 that is disposed opposite the inner surface 232 and defines an outer portion of the contact lens package 200. In some embodiments, the outer surface 234 can be a convex surface, the convex shape of which facilitates nesting of multiple contact lens packages 200 disposed adjacent to one another, such as in a stacked configuration, but other shapes of the outer surface 234 can be used in other embodiments. The lens support 230 can be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the lens support 230 can be generally rigid.

[0063] The absorbent member support 240 can at least partially define the second cavity 224 and can support the absorbent member 280 in a desired position and orientation within the second cavity 224. As shown, the absorbent member support 240 can be partially recessed relative to the main plane of the base 210 and can support the absorbent member 280 between the base 210 and the lid 250. In some embodiments, as shown, the absorbent member support 240 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 210. In other embodiments, the absorbent member support 240 can be formed separately and connected to the remainder of the base 210. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 240 can be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the second cavity 224 between the base 210 and the lid 250 and is connected to the base 210, for example, by an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the absorbent member support 240 can include an inner surface 242 (which can also be referred to as the "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the absorbent member 280 within the second cavity 224. In particular, the inner surface 242 can engage the bottom surface of the absorbent member 280. In some embodiments, as shown, the inner surface 242 can be a flat surface, but other contour shapes of the inner surface 242 can be used in other embodiments. As shown, the absorbent member support 240 can include an outer surface 244 that is disposed opposite the inner surface 242 and defines an outer portion of the contact lens package 200. In some embodiments, the outer surface 244 can be a flat surface, but other shapes of the outer surface 244 can be used in other embodiments. The absorbent member support 240 can be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 240 can be generally rigid.

[0064] The lid 250 can be connected to the base 210 and can extend over at least a portion of the base 210. As shown, when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the lid 250 and the base 210 can seal the contact lens 260 and the packaging solution 270 within the first chamber 222 and can seal the absorbent member 280 within the second chamber 224. In this way, the base 210 and the lid 250 together can form a sealed first chamber 222 for containing the contact lens 260 and the packaging solution 270 and a sealed second chamber 224 for containing the absorbent member 280, each until the user desires to open the contact lens package 200 and remove the contact lens 260 for use. In some embodiments, as shown, when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the lid 250 can extend over and cover the lens support 230, the absorbent member support 240, and other corresponding portions of the base 210. When the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, corresponding portions of the lid 250 can be sealed to corresponding adjacent portions of the base 210, such as portions of the barrier 226 and portions of the main body of the base 210 that surround the lens support 230 and the absorbent member support 240, such that the contact lens 260 and the packaging solution 270 are contained within the first chamber 222 formed by the base 210 and the lid 250, and such that the absorbent member 280 is contained within the second chamber 224 formed by the base 210 and the lid 250. When the contact lens package 200 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state to remove the contact lens 260, the seal between the lid 250 and the base 210 can be at least partially broken. As discussed above, the lid 250 can be formed of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, as shown, the lid 250 can be flexible.

[0065] When the contact lens package 200 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state to remove the contact lens 260, the door 252 can be connected to the lid 150 and is configured to move therewith. As shown, the door 252 can be configured to block the opening 228 of the barrier 226 when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state. In particular, the door 252 can be configured to fill the opening 228 of the barrier 226 and seal against an adjacent surface of the base 210 (including its barrier 226) when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state. When the contact lens package 100 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the door 252 can move with the lid 250 away from the opening 228 such that the first chamber 222 and the second chamber 224 are in fluid communication with each other via the opening 228, thereby allowing the packaging solution 270 to flow from the first chamber 222 into the second chamber 224. The door 252 can be formed of any suitable material.

[0066] The absorbent member 280 can be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution 270 when the contact lens package 200 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, such that the first chamber 222 and the second chamber 224 are in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution 270 when the contact lens package 200 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be compressible and configured to transition between a compressed state and an expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be biased towards the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be in the expanded state when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be in the compressed state when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, and when the contact lens package 200 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 280 can transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. Thus, when the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the absorbent member 280 can be compressed between the base 210 and the lid 250 and maintained in the compressed state, and when the contact lens package 200 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 280 can automatically transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. As discussed above, such a transition of the absorbent member 280 from the compressed state to the expanded state can allow the absorbent member 280 to rapidly absorb the packaging solution 270, thereby further facilitating the drainage of the packaging solution 270 from the contact lens 260. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be formed of or can include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be formed of or can include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 280 can be formed of or can include a superabsorbent polymer. Various other suitable configurations and materials can be used for the absorbent member 280.

[0067] Figure 2C and Figure 2D Illustrates an example method of opening a contact lens package 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, as Figure 2A and Figure 2C shown, the contact lens package 200 can be provided and stored in an unopened state until the user desires to open the package 200. In the case where the contact lens package 200 is in the unopened state, the user can hold the base 210 and grasp an end region of the lid 250, such as an end region of the lid 250 that is not directly connected to the base 210, as Figure 2C shown. The user can at least partially remove the lid 250 from the base 210 by pulling the end region of the lid 250 away from the base 210. Thus, at least a portion of the seal between the lid 250 and the base 210 can be broken. As Figure 2DAs shown, the lid 250 can be removed from the base 210 such that at least a portion of the contact lens 260, the lens support 230, and the absorbent member 280 is no longer covered by the lid 250. In some embodiments, as shown, the entire absorbent member 280 can be exposed. In some embodiments, the lid 250 can be completely removed from the base 210. As discussed above, the lid 250 can be at least partially removed from the base 210 such that the first chamber 222 and the second chamber 224 are in fluid communication with each other, thereby allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 270 to flow from the first chamber 222 into the second chamber 224 and be absorbed by the absorbent member 280 and discharged from the contact lens 260. As shown, when the lid 250 is at least partially removed from the base 210, the door 252 can move with the lid 250 such that the door 252 is removed from the opening 228 of the barrier 226. Thus, when the door 252 is removed from the opening 228, the first chamber 222 and the second chamber 224 can be in fluid communication with each other via the opening 228, allowing the packaging solution 270 to flow therethrough. After the lid 250 is at least partially removed from the base 210, as Figure 2D shown, the user can engage the contact lens 260 while the contact lens 260 is exposed and supported by the lens support 230. According to the illustrated embodiment in which the lens support 230 supports the concave surface of the contact lens 260, the user can engage the convex surface of the contact lens 260 and remove the contact lens 260 from the lens support 230. As discussed above, by allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 270 to drain away from the contact lens 260 and be absorbed and contained by the absorbent member 280, the user can be enabled to easily engage and hold the contact lens 260 with the user's finger. Thus, the contact lens 260 can be conveniently removed from the lens support 230 and held on the user's finger in the desired concave-side-up orientation, ready to be positioned on the user's eye.

[0068] Now referring to the drawings, Figures 3A to 3D an exemplary contact lens package 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. As described, the contact lens package 300 can include a base 310, a lid 350, a contact lens 360, a packaging solution 370, and an absorbent member 380. The contact lens package 300 can have an unopened state as shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3C shown and an opened state as shown in Figure 3DThe opened state shown. When the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the contact lens 360 and the packaging solution 370 can be accommodated within a first chamber 322 formed between the base 310 and the lid 350, and the absorbent member 380 can be accommodated within a second chamber 324 formed between the base 310 and the lid 350. As shown, the first chamber 322 and the second chamber 324 can be arranged concentrically, with the second chamber 324 surrounding the first chamber 322. As described below, when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the first chamber 322 and the second chamber 324 can be fluidly isolated from each other, which can result in the packaging solution 370 being disposed around the contact lens 360 and in contact with the contact lens to maintain hydration of the lens 360. Thus, when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the packaging solution 370 can be accommodated within the first chamber 322, while the second chamber 324 and the absorbent member 380 accommodated therein can be free of any packaging solution 370. When desired, the user can open the contact lens package 300 by at least partially removing the lid 350 from the base 310 to allow access to the contact lens 360. Such opening of the contact lens package 300 can result in the first chamber 322 and the second chamber 324 being in fluid communication with each other, allowing the packaging solution 370 to flow from the first chamber 322 into the second chamber 324 such that the absorbent member 380 absorbs a substantial amount of the packaging solution 370, effectively draining the packaging solution 370 from the contact lens 360. Thus, such draining of the packaging solution 370 from the contact lens 360 can allow the user to more easily remove the contact lens 360 from the contact lens package 300. At least partially removing the lid 350 from the base 310 can expose the contact lens 360, allowing the user to engage and remove the contact lens 350 with the user's finger. As shown, when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the lens support 330 of the base 310 can hold the contact lens 360 in position and orientation within the first chamber 322. As Figure 3C shown, the contact lens 360 can be accommodated within the first chamber 322 and supported by the lens support 330 such that when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens 160 faces the lid 350. Thus, when the contact lens package 300 is opened, the user can engage the convex surface to remove the contact lens 360 and subsequently place the contact lens 360 on the user's eye, resulting in a simplified user experience and avoiding the drawbacks of certain existing contact lens packages.

[0069] According to the illustrated example, the base 310 may have a first end 312 (also referred to as the "rear end" in some embodiments) and a second end 314 (also referred to as the "front end" in some embodiments) that are disposed opposite each other. As shown, the base 310 may have a first side 316 (also referred to as the "top side" in some embodiments) and a second side 318 (also referred to as the "bottom side" in some embodiments) that are disposed opposite each other and each extend from the first end 312 to the second end 314. The base 310 may also have a pair of side faces 320 that are disposed opposite each other and each extend from the first end 312 to the second end 314. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 310 may include certain portions having a planar shape and other portions having a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 310 may include a main portion having a planar shape, an absorbent member support 340 that is recessed relative to the main portion and has a planar shape, and a lens support 330 that extends upwardly beyond the main portion relative to the absorbent member support 340 and has a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 310 may define a first base cavity and a second base cavity, the first base cavity forming part of the overall first cavity 322 of the contact lens package 300, and the second base cavity forming part of the overall second cavity 324 of the contact lens package 300. In some embodiments, as shown, a barrier 326 of the base 310 may be disposed between the first cavity 322 and the second cavity 324. As discussed above, the base 310 may be formed of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, the base 310 may be generally rigid. In other embodiments, the base 310 may be flexible.

[0070] The lens support 330 can at least partially define a first cavity 322 and can support the contact lens 360 in a desired position and orientation within the first cavity 322. As shown, the lens support 330 can extend upward relative to the absorbent member support 340 and can support the contact lens 360 between the base 310 and the lid 350. In some embodiments, as shown, the lens support 330 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 310. In other embodiments, the lens support 330 can be formed separately and attached to the remainder of the base 310. In some embodiments, the lens support 330 can be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the first cavity 322 between the base 310 and the lid 350 and is attached to the base 310, for example, by an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the lens support 330 can include an inner surface 332 (which can also be referred to as the "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the contact lens 360 within the cavity 322. In particular, the inner surface 332 can engage the concave surface of the contact lens 360. In some embodiments, the inner surface 332 can be a convex surface, but other shapes of the inner surface 332 can be used in other embodiments. As shown, the lens support 330 can be formed as a dome that extends upward from the absorbent member support 340, and the inner surface 332 can be the convex outer surface of the dome. As shown, the lens support 330 can include an outer surface 334 that is disposed opposite the inner surface 332 and defines the outer portion of the contact lens package 300. In some embodiments, the outer surface 334 can be a convex surface, the convex shape of which facilitates nesting of multiple contact lens packages 300 that are disposed adjacent to each other, such as in a stacked configuration, but other shapes of the outer surface 334 can be used in other embodiments. The lens support 330 can be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the lens support 330 can be generally rigid.

[0071] The absorbent member support 340 can at least partially define a second cavity 324 and can support the absorbent member 380 in a desired position and orientation within the second cavity 324. As shown, the absorbent member support 340 can be recessed relative to the main planar portion of the base 310 and can support the absorbent member 380 between the base 310 and the lid 350. In some embodiments, as shown, the absorbent member support 340 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 310. In other embodiments, the absorbent member support 340 can be formed separately and attached to the remainder of the base 310. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 340 can be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the second cavity 324 between the base 310 and the lid 350 and is attached to the base 310, for example, by an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the absorbent member support 340 can include an inner surface 342 (which can also be referred to as a "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the absorbent member 380 within the second cavity 324. In particular, the inner surface 342 can engage the bottom surface of the absorbent member 380. In some embodiments, as shown, the inner surface 342 can be a flat surface, but other contour shapes of the inner surface 342 can be used in other embodiments. As shown, the absorbent member support 340 can include an outer surface 344 that is disposed opposite the inner surface 342 and defines an outer portion of the contact lens package 300. In some embodiments, the outer surface 344 can be a flat surface, but other shapes of the outer surface 344 can be used in other embodiments. The absorbent member support 340 can be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 340 can be generally rigid.

[0072] The lid 350 can be connected to the base 310 and can extend over at least a portion of the base 310. As shown, when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the lid 350 and the base 310 can seal the contact lens 360 and the packaging solution 370 within the first chamber 322, and can seal the absorbent member 380 within the second chamber 324. In this way, the base 310 and the lid 350 together can form a sealed first chamber 322 for containing the contact lens 360 and the packaging solution 370 and a sealed second chamber 324 for containing the absorbent member 380, each until the user desires to open the contact lens package 300 and remove the contact lens 360 for use. In some embodiments, as shown, when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the lid 350 can extend over and cover the lens support 330, the absorbent member support 340, and other corresponding portions of the base 310. When the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, corresponding portions of the lid 350 can be sealed to corresponding adjacent portions of the base 310, such as the barrier 326 and the portion of the main body of the base 310 that surrounds the lens support 330 and the absorbent member support 340, such that the contact lens 360 and the packaging solution 370 are contained within the first chamber 322 formed by the base 310 and the lid 350, and such that the absorbent member 380 is contained within the second chamber 324 formed by the base 310 and the lid 350. When the contact lens package 300 is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state to remove the contact lens 360, the seal between the lid 350 and the base 310 can be at least partially broken. As discussed above, the lid 350 can be formed of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, as shown, the lid 350 can be flexible.

[0073] The absorbent member 380 can be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution 370 when the contact lens package 300 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state, such that the first chamber 322 and the second chamber 324 are in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution 370 when the contact lens package 300 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be compressible and configured to transition between a compressed state and an expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be biased towards the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be in the expanded state when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be in the compressed state when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, and when the contact lens package 300 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 380 can transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. Thus, when the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the absorbent member 380 can be compressed between the base 310 and the lid 350 and maintained in the compressed state, and when the contact lens package 300 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 380 can automatically transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. As discussed above, such a transition of the absorbent member 380 from the compressed state to the expanded state can allow the absorbent member 380 to quickly absorb the packaging solution 370, thereby further facilitating the draining of the packaging solution 370 from the contact lens 360. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be formed of or can include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be formed of or can include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 380 can be formed of or can include a superabsorbent polymer. Various other suitable configurations and materials can be used for the absorbent member 380.

[0074] Figure 3C and Figure 3D Illustrates an example method of an opened contact lens package 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, as Figure 3A and Figure 3C shown, the contact lens package 300 can be provided and stored in an unopened state until the user desires to open the package 300. In the case where the contact lens package 300 is in the unopened state, the user can hold the base 310 and grasp an end region of the lid 350, such as an end region of the lid 350 that is not directly connected to the base 310, as Figure 3C shown. The user can at least partially remove the lid 350 from the base 310 by pulling the end region of the lid 350 away from the base 310. Thus, at least a portion of the seal between the lid 350 and the base 310 can be broken. As Figure 3DAs shown, the lid 350 can be removed from the base 310 such that at least a portion of the contact lens 360, the lens support 330, and the absorbent member 380 is no longer covered by the lid 350. In some embodiments, as shown, the entire absorbent member 380 can be exposed. In some embodiments, the lid 350 can be completely removed from the base 310. As discussed above, the lid 350 can be at least partially removed from the base 310 such that the first chamber 322 and the second chamber 324 are in fluid communication with each other, thereby allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 370 to flow from the first chamber 322 into the second chamber 324 and be absorbed by the absorbent member 380 and discharged from the contact lens 360. After the lid 350 is at least partially removed from the base 310, as Figure 3D shown, the user can engage the contact lens 360 while the contact lens 360 is exposed and supported by the lens support 330. According to the illustrated embodiment in which the lens support 330 supports the concave surface of the contact lens 360, the user can engage the convex surface of the contact lens 360 and remove the contact lens 360 from the lens support 330. As discussed above, by allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 370 to drain away from the contact lens 360 and be absorbed and contained by the absorbent member 380, the user can be enabled to easily engage and hold the contact lens 360 with the user's finger. Thus, the contact lens 360 can be conveniently removed from the lens support 330 and held on the user's finger in the desired concave-side-up orientation, ready to be positioned on the user's eye.

[0075] Some aspects of the present invention can be further understood with reference to the following examples:

[0076] Example 1. A contact lens package, the contact lens package comprising:

[0077] a first chamber that houses a contact lens and a packaging solution; and

[0078] a second chamber that houses an absorbent member;

[0079] wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other.

[0080] Example 2. The contact lens package according to Example 1, wherein when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to an opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other.

[0081] Example 3. The contact lens package according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to an opened state.

[0082] Example 4. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the absorption member is configured to absorb most of the packaging solution when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0083] Example 5. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the package is configured such that at least a portion of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0084] Example 6. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the package is configured such that most of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0085] Example 7. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the absorption member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and wherein the absorption member is in the expanded state when the package is in the unopened state.

[0086] Example 8. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the absorption member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, wherein the absorption member is in the compressed state when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the absorption member is configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0087] Example 9. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the absorption member comprises a sponge.

[0088] Example 10. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the absorption member comprises a foam.

[0089] Example 11. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the absorption member comprises a superabsorbent polymer.

[0090] Example 12. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, the contact lens package further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the first chamber is formed between the base and the lid, and wherein the second chamber is formed between the base and the lid.

[0091] Example 13. The contact lens package according to Example 12, wherein the base and the lid together enclose the first chamber, and wherein the base and the lid together enclose the second chamber.

[0092] Example 14. The contact lens package according to Example 12 or Example 13, wherein the base and the lid together define the first chamber, and wherein the base and the lid together define the second chamber.

[0093] Example 15. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 14, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid is sealed to the base along the interface between the first chamber and the second chamber, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken.

[0094] Example 16. The contact lens package according to Example 15, wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the first chamber, and wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the second chamber.

[0095] Example 17. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 16, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the contact lens, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the contact lens.

[0096] Example 18. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 17, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member.

[0097] Example 19. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 17, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member.

[0098] Example 20. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 19, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first chamber such that when the package is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid.

[0099] Example 21. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 20, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in the opened state, the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user.

[0100] Example 22. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 21, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in the unopened state, the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base.

[0101] Example 23. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 22, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the base.

[0102] Example 24. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 22, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the lid.

[0103] Example 25. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 24, wherein the base includes a lens support for supporting the contact lens in the cavity.

[0104] Example 26. The contact lens package according to Example 25, wherein the lens support includes an inner surface having a convex shape, and wherein the inner surface of the lens support engages the concave surface of the contact lens.

[0105] Example 27. The contact lens package according to Example 26, wherein the inner surface of the lens support defines a part of the first cavity.

[0106] Example 28. The contact lens package according to Example 26 or Example 27, wherein the lens support further includes an outer surface disposed opposite to the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape.

[0107] Example 29. The contact lens package according to Example 28, wherein the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive a raised portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating stacking of a plurality of packages in a nested manner.

[0108] Example 30. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 25 to 29, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the lens support, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the lens support.

[0109] Example 31. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 25 to 30, wherein the base further includes an absorbent member support for supporting the absorbent member within the second cavity.

[0110] Example 32. The contact lens package according to Example 31, wherein the absorbent member support includes an inner surface having a planar shape.

[0111] Example 33. The contact lens package according to Example 32, wherein the inner surface of the absorbent member support defines a part of the second cavity.

[0112] Example 34. The contact lens package according to Example 32 or Example 33, wherein the absorbent member support further includes an outer surface disposed opposite to the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape.

[0113] Example 35. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 32 to 34, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the absorbent member support.

[0114] Example 36. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 32 to 35, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member support.

[0115] Example 37. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 32 to 35, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid at least partially extends over the absorbent member support.

[0116] Example 38. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 32 to 37, wherein the absorbent member support is disposed adjacent to the lens support.

[0117] Example 39. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 32 to 38, wherein the lens support extends over the absorbent member support and is configured to facilitate drainage of the packaging solution to the absorbent member when the package is in the opened state.

[0118] Example 40. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 39, wherein the base is substantially rigid and the lid is flexible.

[0119] Example 41. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 39, wherein the base is flexible and the lid is flexible.

[0120] Example 42. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 41, wherein the lid comprises a foil layer.

[0121] Example 43. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 12 to 42, wherein the base comprises a barrier disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber when the package is in the unopened state.

[0122] Example 44. The contact lens package according to Example 43, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid is sealed to the barrier such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state.

[0123] Example 45. The contact lens package according to Example 44, wherein when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state, the lid is unsealed from the barrier such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly connected to each other when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0124] Example 46. The contact lens package according to Example 43, wherein the barrier defines an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, wherein the lid blocks the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the opening is not blocked by the lid when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly connected to each other when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0125] Example 47. The contact lens package according to Example 43, the contact lens package further comprising a door, wherein the barrier defines an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, wherein the door blocks the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the opening is not blocked by the door when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly connected to each other when the package is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0126] Example 48. The contact lens package according to Example 47, wherein the door is connected to the lid and moves with the lid when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0127] Example 49. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 48, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are spaced apart from each other.

[0128] Example 50. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 1 to 49, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are arranged concentrically.

[0129] Example 51. A contact lens package, the contact lens package comprising:

[0130] A base; and

[0131] A lid connected to the base, wherein the base and the lid together define a first chamber for receiving a contact lens and a packaging solution, wherein the base and the lid together define a second chamber for receiving an absorbent member, and wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state.

[0132] Example 52. The contact lens package according to Example 51, wherein when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other.

[0133] Example 53. The contact lens package according to Example 51 or Example 52, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0134] Example 54. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 53, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb most of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0135] Example 55. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 54, wherein the package is configured such that when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, at least a portion of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber.

[0136] Example 56. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 55, wherein the package is configured such that when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, most of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber.

[0137] Example 57. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 56, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member is in the expanded state.

[0138] Example 58. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 56, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member is in the compressed state, and wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0139] Example 59. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 58, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

[0140] Example 60. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 58, wherein the absorbent member comprises a foam.

[0141] Example 61. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 58, wherein the absorbent member comprises a superabsorbent polymer.

[0142] Example 62. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 61, wherein the first chamber is formed between the base and the lid, and wherein the second chamber is formed between the base and the lid.

[0143] Example 63. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 62, wherein the base and the lid together enclose the first chamber, and wherein the base and the lid together enclose the second chamber.

[0144] Example 64. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 63, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid is sealed to the base along the interface between the first chamber and the second chamber, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken.

[0145] Example 65. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 64, wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the first chamber, and wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the second chamber.

[0146] Example 66. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 65, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the contact lens, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the contact lens.

[0147] Example 67. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 66, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member.

[0148] Example 68. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 66, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member.

[0149] Example 69. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 68, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid.

[0150] Example 70. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 69, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in the opened state, the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user.

[0151] Example 71. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 70, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first cavity such that when the package is in the unopened state, the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base.

[0152] Example 72. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 71, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the base.

[0153] Example 73. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 71, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the lid.

[0154] Example 74. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 73, wherein the base includes a lens support for supporting the contact lens in the cavity.

[0155] Example 75. The contact lens package according to Example 74, wherein the lens support includes an inner surface having a convex shape, and wherein the inner surface of the lens support engages the concave surface of the contact lens.

[0156] Example 76. The contact lens package according to Example 75, wherein the inner surface of the lens support defines a part of the first cavity.

[0157] Example 77. The contact lens package according to Example 75 or Example 76, wherein the lens support further includes an outer surface disposed opposite to the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape.

[0158] Example 78. The contact lens package according to Example 77, wherein the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive a raised portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating stacking of a plurality of packages in a nested manner.

[0159] Example 79. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 74 to 78, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the lens support, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the lens support.

[0160] Example 80. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 74 to 79, wherein the base further includes an absorbent member support for supporting the absorbent member in the second cavity.

[0161] Example 81. The contact lens package according to Example 80, wherein the absorbent member support includes an inner surface having a planar shape.

[0162] Example 82. The contact lens package according to Example 81, wherein the inner surface of the absorbent member support defines a part of the second cavity.

[0163] Example 83. The contact lens package according to Example 81 or Example 82, wherein the absorbent member support further includes an outer surface disposed opposite to the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape.

[0164] Example 84. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 80 to 83, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the absorbent member support.

[0165] Example 85. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 80 to 84, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member support.

[0166] Example 86. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 80 to 84, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member support.

[0167] Example 87. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 80 to 86, wherein the absorbent member support is disposed adjacent to the lens support.

[0168] Example 88. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 80 to 87, wherein the lens support extends over the absorbent member support and is configured to facilitate drainage of the packaging solution to the absorbent member when the package is in the opened state.

[0169] Example 89. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 88, wherein the base is generally rigid and wherein the lid is flexible.

[0170] Example 90. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 88, wherein the base is flexible and wherein the lid is flexible.

[0171] Example 91. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 90, wherein the lid includes a foil layer.

[0172] Example 92. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 91, wherein the base includes a barrier disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber when the package is in the unopened state.

[0173] Example 93. The contact lens package according to Example 92, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid is sealed to the barrier such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state.

[0174] Example 94. The contact lens package according to Example 93, wherein when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state, the lid is unsealed from the barrier such that when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other.

[0175] Example 95. The contact lens package according to Example 92, wherein the barrier defines an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, wherein the lid blocks the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the opening is not blocked by the lid when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0176] Example 96. The contact lens package according to Example 92, the contact lens package further comprising a door, wherein the barrier defines an opening extending from the first chamber to the second chamber, wherein the door blocks the opening when the package is in the unopened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the opening is not blocked by the door when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0177] Example 97. The contact lens package according to Example 96, wherein the door is connected to the lid and moves with the lid when the package is changed from the unopened state to the opened state.

[0178] Example 98. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 97, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are spaced apart from each other.

[0179] Example 99. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 98, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are arranged concentrically.

[0180] Example 100. The contact lens package according to any one of Examples 51 to 99, wherein the second chamber surrounds the first chamber.

[0181] Example 101. A method of packaging contact lenses, the method comprising:

[0182] placing the contact lenses and a packaging solution in a first chamber of a package;

[0183] Dispose an absorption member in the second cavity of the package; and

[0184] Seal each of the first cavity and the second cavity such that when the package is in an unopened state, the first cavity and the second cavity are fluidly isolated from each other.

[0185] Example 102. The method according to Example 101, wherein the absorption member comprises a sponge.

[0186] Example 103. The method according to Example 101, wherein the absorption member comprises a foam.

[0187] Example 104. The method according to Example 101, wherein the absorption member comprises a superabsorbent polymer.

[0188] Example 105. The method according to any one of Examples 101 to 104, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are spaced apart from each other.

[0189] Example 106. The method according to any one of Examples 101 to 105, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are arranged concentrically.

[0190] Example 107. The method according to any one of Examples 101 to 106, wherein the package comprises a base and a lid, wherein the first cavity is formed between the base and the lid, wherein the second cavity is formed between the base and the lid, and wherein sealing each of the first cavity and the second cavity comprises connecting the lid to the base such that the first cavity and the second cavity are fluidly isolated from each other.

[0191] Example 108. A method of opening a contact lens package, the method comprising:

[0192] Holding the package, the package comprising a first cavity containing a contact lens and a packaging solution and a second cavity containing an absorption member, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are fluidly isolated from each other;

[0193] At least partially opening the first cavity such that the contact lens is uncovered;

[0194] At least partially opening the second cavity such that the first cavity and the second cavity are in fluid communication with each other.

[0195] Example 109. The method according to Example 108, wherein at least partially opening the second cavity such that the first cavity and the second cavity are in fluid communication with each other comprises allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution to flow away from the contact lens.

[0196] Example 110. The method according to Example 108, wherein at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other includes allowing most of the packaging solution to flow out of the contact lens.

[0197] Example 111. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 110, wherein at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other includes allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution to flow into the absorbent member.

[0198] Example 112. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 110, wherein at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other includes allowing most of the packaging solution to flow into the absorbent member.

[0199] Example 113. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 112, wherein at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other includes allowing the absorbent member to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution.

[0200] Example 114. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 112, wherein at least partially opening the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other includes allowing the absorbent member to absorb most of the packaging solution.

[0201] Example 115. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 114, wherein the absorbent member includes a sponge.

[0202] Example 116. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 114, wherein the absorbent member includes a foam.

[0203] Example 117. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 114, wherein the absorbent member includes a superabsorbent polymer.

[0204] Example 118. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 117, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are spaced apart from each other.

[0205] Example 119. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 118, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are arranged concentrically.

[0206] Example 120. The method according to any one of Examples 108 to 119, wherein the package comprises a base and a lid, wherein the first cavity is formed between the base and the lid, wherein the second cavity is formed between the base and the lid, and wherein at least partially unsealing the first cavity comprises

[0207] For purposes of explanation, the foregoing description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that practicing the described embodiments does not require many specific details. Accordingly, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments presented herein is for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, given the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible.

[0208] The Summary of the Invention and the Abstract sections may set forth one or more embodiments of the invention as contemplated by the inventors but not all exemplary embodiments, and are therefore not intended to limit the invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0209] Without departing from the general concept of the invention, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments will fully disclose the general nature of the invention, such that others may, by applying the knowledge of those skilled in the art, readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various applications without undue experimentation. Accordingly, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the language or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or wording of this specification should be interpreted by those skilled in the art in light of the teachings and guidance.

[0210] The packages of the present invention can be manufactured using known materials and processes. The packaging material can be natural, recyclable, or a combination thereof. The volume within the package cavity can vary according to the selected design.

[0211] Not all features described herein need to be incorporated into each package, and those skilled in the art can combine these features using the teachings herein to provide various improved contact lens packages. In summary, the contact lens packages of the present invention include several novel features that can be combined in various combinations as described herein to provide the desired improvements and / or single-touch packages. The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A contact lens package, the contact lens package comprises: a first chamber that houses a contact lens and a packaging solution; and a second chamber that houses an absorbent member; wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the first chamber and the second chamber are fluidly isolated from each other.

2. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein when the package transitions from the unopened state to an opened state, the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication with each other.

3. The contact lens package according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to an opened state.

4. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to an opened state.

5. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the package is configured such that when the package transitions from the unopened state to an opened state, at least a portion of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber.

6. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the package is configured such that when the package transitions from the unopened state to an opened state, a majority of the packaging solution flows from the first chamber into the second chamber.

7. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member is in the expanded state.

8. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the absorbent member is in the compressed state, and wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to an opened state.

9. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

10. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent member comprises a foam.

11. The contact lens package according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent member comprises a superabsorbent polymer.

12. The contact lens package according to claim 1, the contact lens package further comprises a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the first chamber is formed between the base and the lid, and wherein the second chamber is formed between the base and the lid.

13. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein the base and the lid together enclose the first chamber, and wherein the base and the lid together enclose the second chamber.

14. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein the base and the lid together define the first chamber, and wherein the base and the lid together define the second chamber.

15. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid is sealed to the base along the interface between the first chamber and the second chamber, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken.

16. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the first chamber, and wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the second chamber.

17. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the contact lens, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the contact lens.

18. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member.

19. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and wherein when the package is in the opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member.

20. The contact lens package according to claim 12, wherein the contact lens is disposed in the first chamber such that when the package is in the unopened state, the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid.

Images