Intraocular lens retention device

Abstract

A device for implanting within an eye to hold an intraocular lens (IOL) is presented, the device being operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis by absorbing energy from a remote energy source, the device comprising: a stator portion configured to be fixedly positioned within a capsular bag of the eye; a rotor portion configured to be fixedly attached to the IOL; and a motion system operable to cause rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL, the motion system comprising a plurality of actuators and at least one interaction area associated with the plurality of actuators, the plurality of actuators including at least two actuators operable to cause rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL in each of clockwise and counterclockwise angular directions, the plurality of actuators and the at least one interaction area being aligned, such that at each given time, each actuator of the plurality of actuators is differently aligned with respect to its associated interaction area and further configured, when actuated by the remote energy source, to engage with the associated interaction area to rotate the IOL in different incremental rotations having either different angular distances or different angular directions, and the device can include a protective shield assembly that seals the moving parts from intrusion of biological tissue.

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] A variety of vision and vision-related diseases are treated by replacing the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Eye problems such as cataracts, eye trauma, and vision refractive errors including hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism can be resolved through IOL replacement surgery. This treatment is also effective for other eye diseases in people who cannot undergo laser therapy.

[0003] Cataracts are the most common eye disease in the world, causing half of all blindness and one third of all visual impairments worldwide. Approximately 25 million patients worldwide undergo cataract surgery each year.

[0004] Typically, implanted IOLs are selected with focal lengths and optical powers that provide patients with very good vision. However, predicting the exact lens characteristics needed to correct reduced vision is often difficult. For example, even with state-of-the-art multifocal and other presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses, fewer than 50% of patients currently achieve their target visual acuity after treatment, and as a result, postoperative patients often need to wear glasses for reading and distance vision.

[0005] IOL replacement surgery is a frequent procedure, but it has several challenges, for example, prediction of accurate lens properties (ELP), errors in lens position during surgery, tilt and misalignment after surgery and during the eye healing process, and changes in corneal cylinder in elderly patients. There are several types of IOLs used to correct visual impairments, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric (which can also be combined in the same lens). Any type of IOL can shift or deviate from its designed optical axis after the wearing and healing process, which may require correction by optimizing the position of the IOL in the capsular bag. Corrections to the IOL position must be made around the optical axis of the IOL to correct astigmatism problems, or along the optical axis of the IOL to correct focus problems. There are several invasive and non-invasive techniques used to perform the correction, including repeated surgeries to move the IOL, the use of specific UV-sensitive polymers that allow correction by post-deformation of the lens, and / or changing the IOL shape by laser irradiation. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention provides techniques for post-adjustment and optimization of the position of an intraocular lens (IOL) already implanted within the capsular bag.

[0007] The techniques, systems and devices described allow for non-invasive, remote, reversible and repeatable correction of IOL position, enabling the procedure to be performed in the clinic with relative ease and speed while eliminating the need for additional invasive surgical procedures.

[0008] The present invention provides an IOL holding / support system / device (e.g. in the form of a cradle) that includes / integrates a motion system / mechanism / assembly operable to move and adjust the position of the IOL. The motion system / mechanism / assembly is configured to be remotely actuated from outside the eye and to apply corrections to the position of the IOL in at least one of the angular (xy plane, θ) and axial (z) directions, i.e. by rotating the IOL and / or changing its optical power, respectively. It is noted that according to the present invention, axial displacement can be achieved by using a helical path of displacement, such that rotation about the optical axis can result in a displacement along the optical axis.

[0009] The present invention allows a physician to precisely adjust the position of an IOL based on the exact amount of vision correction required to achieve a desired visual acuity. The systems / devices disclosed herein are advantageously compact and allow remote access to the integrated motion system / mechanism through the pupil of the eye. The diameter of the pupil is between about 2 mm and 4 mm in light conditions and between about 4 mm and 8 mm in dark conditions. The described systems / devices thus allow for accommodating IOLs having diameters in the range of about 3.5 to 4.5 mm. As a result, the circumference over which the motion system / mechanism of the system / device must function to displace the IOL is, for example, about π·4 mm (assuming a relatively circular shape with a diameter of 4 mm), and since the required accuracy of angular correction is about 0.5° to 1°, this means that the angular distance step of correction is about 0.017 to 0.035 mm. The techniques of the present invention allow for achieving the step distances in the described range while overcoming the limitations of manufacturing motion systems / mechanisms that allow for such minute step angle / distance corrections.

[0010] Furthermore, the described systems and devices are resilient and foldable, at least in the operating temperature range, allowing for easy insertion and implantation into the ocular capsule.

[0011] That is, according to one aspect, there is provided a device configured for implantation within a capsular bag of a human eye to securely hold an intraocular lens (IOL) and operable to absorb energy from a remote energy source to rotate the IOL about its optical axis, the device comprising: a stator portion configured to be fixedly positioned inside the capsule; and a rotor portion configured to be fixedly attached to the IOL; - a motion system operable to cause incremental rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL around the optical axis of the IOL relative to the stator portion, the motion system comprising a plurality of actuators having a fixed spatial relationship with the rotor portion and at least one interaction area associated with the plurality of actuators and having a fixed spatial relationship with the stator portion, the plurality of actuators including at least two actuators operable to cause rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL in each of clockwise and counterclockwise angular directions, the plurality of actuators and the at least one interaction area being aligned, such that at each given time, each actuator of the plurality of actuators is differently positioned with respect to its associated interaction area to orient a different interaction point on the associated interaction area, and further configured, when actuated by a remote energy source, to engage with the associated interaction area at the respective interaction point to rotate the IOL in different incremental rotations having either different angular distances or different angular directions.

[0012] In some embodiments, the multiple actuators and at least one associated interaction area are aligned such that at each given time after one actuator of the multiple actuators is actuated by a remote energy source to engage its associated interaction area at a respective interaction point to rotate the IOL a particular incremental rotation having a particular angular distance and direction, a subsequent actuator of the multiple actuators becomes aligned with its associated interaction area and is configured to, when actuated by a remote energy source to engage its associated interaction area, rotate the IOL the same particular incremental rotation having the same particular angular distance and direction.

[0013] In some embodiments, the actuators and at least one associated interaction area are aligned such that after an actuator is actuated to engage its associated interaction area and rotate the IOL a particular incremental rotation having a particular angular distance and direction, the actuator becomes misaligned with respect to the associated interaction area such that subsequent actuation of the actuator to engage the associated interaction area results in zero incremental rotation of the IOL.

[0014] In some embodiments, the plurality of actuators includes two actuators spaced a first distance apart, and the associated at least one interaction area includes two respective interaction areas spaced a second distance apart, the second distance being different from the first distance.

[0015] In some embodiments, the plurality of actuators includes at least three actuators spaced a variable distance apart, and the associated at least one interaction area includes at least three respective interaction areas spaced a fixed distance apart.

[0016] In some embodiments, the plurality of actuators includes at least three actuators spaced a fixed distance apart, and the associated at least one interaction area includes at least three respective interaction areas spaced a variable distance apart.

[0017] In some embodiments, the variable distance is characterized by a constant, increasing pitch between two adjacent actuators of the at least three actuators or between two adjacent interaction regions of the at least three respective interaction regions.

[0018] In some embodiments, at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators are sequentially actuated in a particular actuation order to rotate the IOL in sequential incremental rotations having equal angular distances and the same angular orientation when sequentially engaging with associated interaction regions.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators are unidirectional and can be individually actuated to rotate the IOL in the same angular direction when engaged with the associated at least one interaction region. The unidirectional actuators can include a first group of unidirectional actuators operable to rotate the IOL in a clockwise direction when sequentially actuated to engage the associated at least one interaction region, and a second group of unidirectional actuators operable to rotate the IOL in a counterclockwise direction when sequentially actuated to engage the associated at least one interaction region.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators are bidirectional and, when individually actuated to engage at least one associated interaction area, rotate the IOL in either a clockwise or counterclockwise angular direction based on their temporary positioning relative to the associated interaction area.

[0021] In some embodiments, each of at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators has a length dimension that defines the actuator as a unidirectional actuator or a bidirectional actuator configured to rotate the IOL in one or two angular directions, respectively, when actuated by a remote energy source.

[0022] In some embodiments, each actuator of the plurality of actuators includes an actuator actuable portion reversibly shiftable between a first rest space configuration and a second working space configuration when actuated by a remote energy source, such that the actuator can engage and disengage with an associated interaction region. Each actuator of the plurality of actuators can include an actuator resilient portion in communication with the actuator actuable portion, the actuator resilient portion operable to return the actuator actuable portion from the second working space configuration to the first rest space configuration when the actuator actuable portion is no longer actuated by the remote energy source. The actuator resilient portion is operable to engage with the associated interaction region to rotate the IOL in incremental rotations when the actuator actuable portion is actuated by the remote energy source.

[0023] In some embodiments, the actuator actuatable portion comprises a shape memory material operable to provide a first rest space configuration and a second actuated space configuration. The shape memory material may comprise Nitinol or / and a bimetal.

[0024] In some embodiments, the stator portion comprises a superelastic material.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rotor portion comprises a superelastic material.

[0026] In some embodiments, the superelastic material includes Nitinol or / and a bimetal.

[0027] In some embodiments, the device is about 2.54 mm 2 or a cross section of about 1.8 mm in diameter.

[0028] In some embodiments, the incremental rotation has an angular distance of 0.3° or greater.

[0029] In some embodiments, one or more of the at least one interaction region is defined by a series of teeth, each of which can define an incremental rotation of an angular distance of 0.6° or greater.

[0030] In some embodiments, the device comprises one or more markings to identify each actuator of the plurality of actuators, thereby enabling which actuator to be actuated.

[0031] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a protective shield assembly configured to at least partially shield the motion system and / or rotor portion to prevent interaction of the motion system and / or rotor portion with biological tissue that would inhibit incremental rotation of the IOL.

[0032] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly comprises front and rear covers configured to shield the motion system and / or rotor portion from the front and rear sides of the device, respectively.

[0033] In some embodiments, the front and back covers cover the entire front and back sides, respectively, of the device.

[0034] In some embodiments, the front and back covers are configured to be directly or indirectly attached to a stator portion of the device.

[0035] In some embodiments, the front and back covers are configured to be attached to the stator portion of the device by adhesive and / or welding.

[0036] In some embodiments, the front cover and the back cover are attachable to one another to form a housing that encloses the stator portion of the device.

[0037] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly is configured to allow light entering the eye to pass through the IOL and reach the retina.

[0038] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly is configured to allow energy from a remote energy source to reach the actuator.

[0039] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly is made at least in part from hydrophobic or hydrophilic polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

[0040] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly includes one or more channels that allow the flow of aqueous humor between the inside and outside of the protective shield assembly while preventing interaction of the motion system and / or rotor portion with certain biological tissues.

[0041] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly includes a side portion configured to mount to an exterior of the stator portion.

[0042] In some embodiments, the side portion comprises a circumferential groove configured to fixedly receive at least an outer portion of the stator portion.

[0043] In some embodiments, the groove is configured to house all of the stator portion therein, and further house at least the exterior of the motion system and rotor portion.

[0044] According to another aspect, an IOL system is provided, the IOL system comprising: a device as defined above, an IOL having a groove formed along its circumference and configured to receive at least an inner portion of the rotor portion therein;

[0045] In some embodiments, the inner sides of the side portions are configured to engage with the outer periphery of the IOL in a male-female configuration, respectively, to shield the motion system and rotor portion housed within the groove while allowing rotational motion of the IOL.

[0046] According to another aspect, an IOL accommodation system is provided, the IOL accommodation system comprising: a device having any one of the configurations described above; a remote energy source configured and operable to supply energy to the plurality of actuators.

[0047] In some embodiments, the remote energy source is configured and operable to provide energy in the form of heat. The remote energy source may include one or more of a radiating element, a laser source.

[0048] In some embodiments, the laser light source is configured and operable to provide continuous laser radiation. In some embodiments, the laser light source is configured as an argon laser light source operable to provide light in the green spectrum. In some embodiments, the laser light source comprises one or more laser diodes, e.g., adaptive laser diodes. In some embodiments, the laser light source is configured and operable to provide a laser power of 0.1-5 watts and a laser pulse width of 200-1000 ms.

[0049] According to another aspect, a protective shield assembly is provided for use with an IOL retention device configured to be implanted within an eye to retain an intraocular lens (IOL), the IOL retention device including a movable portion configured to enable displacement of the IOL by absorbing energy from a remote energy source, and the protective shield assembly configured to at least partially shield the movable portion to prevent interaction of the movable portion with biological tissue that would impede displacement of the IOL.

[0050] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly comprises front and back covers configured to shield the moving parts from the front and back sides, respectively, of the IOL retention device.

[0051] In some embodiments, the front and back covers cover the entire front and back sides of the device, respectively, and the front and back covers are configured to be attached directly or indirectly to the stator portion of the IOL retention device by gluing and / or welding.

[0052] In some embodiments, the front and back covers are attachable to one another to form a housing that encloses the stator portion of the device.

[0053] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly is configured to allow light entering the eye to pass through the IOL to reach the retina while also allowing energy from a remote energy source to reach the movable portion to actuate the movable portion.

[0054] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly is made at least in part from hydrophilic or hydrophobic polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

[0055] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly includes one or more channels that allow the flow of aqueous humor between the inside and outside of the protective shield assembly while preventing interaction of the motion system and / or rotor portion with certain biological tissues.

[0056] In some embodiments, the protective shield assembly includes a side portion configured to mount to an exterior of the stator portion.

[0057] In some embodiments, the side portion comprises a circumferential groove configured to fixedly receive at least an outer portion of the stator portion.

[0058] In some embodiments, the groove is configured to house all of the stator portion therein, and further house at least the exterior of the motion system and rotor portion. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0059] In order to better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1A-1G4 show a first non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Diagram 2] 2A-2D show a second non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Diagram 3] 3A-3D show a third non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Figure 4]4A-4C show a fourth non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Diagram 5] 5A and 5B show a fifth non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Figure 6] 6A-6G show a sixth non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Figure 7] 7A and 7B show a seventh non-limiting example of a device according to the present invention configured to hold an IOL and operable to remotely adjust the position of the IOL after it has been implanted in the eye. [Figure 8] 8A1-8G2 show non-limiting examples of protective shield devices / assemblies configured to at least partially shield the motion system and / or rotor portion to prevent interaction of the motion system and / or rotor portion with biological tissue that would inhibit incremental rotation of the IOL. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0060] The present invention aims to provide an intraocular lens (IOL) retention device that allows for remote, non-invasive, and controlled post-adjustment of the position of an implanted lens.

[0061] Referring to Figures 1A-1G4, which illustrate a first non-limiting example of a device 10 incorporating the principles of the present technology, the device 10 is configured to be implanted within the capsular bag of a human eye and to securely hold an intraocular lens IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL.

[0062] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of device 10 and an IOL held thereby, FIG. 1B is a front view of device 10, FIG. 1C is a rear view of device 10, FIG. 1D is an exploded view of device 10, FIGS. 1E1-1E4 are close-up views of various portions of device 10, FIGS. 1F1-1F4 show clockwise rotation of the IOL by device 10, and FIGS. 1G1-1G4 show counterclockwise rotation of the IOL by device 10.

[0063] As shown, device 10 includes a cavity 202 configured to accept an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about an optical axis OA of the IOL by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which is not part of device 100 and can be selected from among a variety of suitable energy sources, such as a number of laser sources, as described further below).

[0064] The device 10 includes an outer stator portion 100, an inner rotor portion 200, and a motion system 300 operable by a remote energy source ES to rotate the inner rotor portion 200, which is fixedly attached to the IOL, relative to the outer stator portion 100, which is fixedly positioned within the lens capsule of the eye.

[0065] In this and the following examples, the device 10 is substantially circular, with the stator portion substantially forming an outer ring and the rotor portion substantially forming an inner ring, in contact with each other only in a number of regions 204, i.e. three regions, configured here as protrusions on the outside of the rotor portion. However, it should be noted that the stator and rotor, each or both, can have other shapes, in particular open shapes, and not necessarily closed shapes as in the present example. For example, the stator and / or rotor portions can be configured as open arcs.

[0066] The device of the present invention that holds the IOL is typically implanted in the anatomical capsular compartment or in an anatomical groove if the capsular bag is damaged / broken. Typically, the implantation of the IOL in the human eye is supported by one or more haptics that can be attached to the IOL to secure the IOL at the implantation site. In this example, the stator portion 100 includes two attachment portions 102 on its outer side that are configured to attach two corresponding haptics (not shown). The haptics can be tailored to a particular implantation anatomical site. In some embodiments, the haptics can form an integral part of the stator portion 100, but generally, as in this example, the haptics can be configured as elements that are removably attached to the stator portion.

[0067] The dimensions of the device of the present invention are selected to ensure secure retention of lenses, including prefabricated lenses, and to ensure secure implantation and effective displacement of the IOL after implantation. The device is configured to hold the IOL in a permanent position until the device is actuated to displace the IOL. As shown in FIG. 1B of the illustrated example, the dimensions of the device 10 are 3.6 mm in diameter for the cavity 202 that houses the IOL, 6 mm in nominal outer diameter for the stator portion, and 7.5 mm in diameter for the stator portion including portion 102. It should be noted that the dimensions of the cavity 202 are typically between 3.5 mm and 5 mm, which meets the dimensions of commercially available IOLs.

[0068] The motion system is operable to cause incremental rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL about the optical axis of the IOL relative to the stator portion. Unless the motion system is activated, the IOL is safely and stably positioned within the capsular bag. In general, the motion system includes a plurality of actuators having a fixed spatial relationship with the rotor portion and at least one interaction region associated with the plurality of actuators and having a fixed spatial relationship with the stator portion.

[0069] In some examples, the actuators are separate elements fixedly attached to the rotor portion. In some examples, the actuators are integral with the rotor portion. In some examples, the actuators are partially separate and partially integral with the rotor portion. In the illustrated example, the motion system 300 includes three partially separate and partially integral actuators 310A, 310B, 310C fixedly held outside the rotor portion 200. Details of the actuators 310A-310C are described further below.

[0070] In some examples, one or more of the interaction areas are separate elements fixedly attached to the stator portion. In some examples, one or more of the interaction areas are integral with the stator portion. In some examples, one or more of the interaction areas are partially separate and partially integral with the rotor portion. In the illustrated example, the motion system 300 includes three interaction areas 320A, 320B, 320C that are integral with the stator portion and located inside the stator portion 100. Details of the interaction areas 320A-320C are described further below.

[0071] In accordance with the present invention, a plurality of actuators and their associated interaction areas are aligned such that at any given time, each actuator of the plurality of actuators is aligned differently with respect to its associated interaction area such that, for example, each actuator is oriented toward a different point on its associated interaction area and is configured to rotate the IOL by different incremental rotations having either different angular distances or angular directions when actuated by a remote energy source to engage with its associated interaction area.

[0072] According to the technology of the present invention, the multiple actuators include at least two actuators. A single interaction area can extend from the first actuator to the last actuator and be associated with all, as well as the associated one or more interaction areas, or alternatively, the associated multiple interaction areas are at least two. In the case of two actuators and two interaction areas, assuming a circular arrangement, the two actuators need to be arranged with a first distance between them, and the two interaction areas need to be arranged with a second distance between them that is different from the first distance between the actuators, so that the arrangement between the combination of the first actuator and the interaction area is different from the arrangement between the combination of the second actuator and the interaction area. Alternatively, the single interaction area may have a varied pattern of features, such that the first actuator is aligned with the first feature and the second actuator is aligned with the second feature.

[0073] In another example, the plurality of actuators includes at least three actuators spaced a variable distance apart and the associated plurality of interaction areas includes at least three interaction areas spaced a fixed distance apart, or a single interaction is associated with three actuators, or two interaction areas, a first interaction area associated with two actuators and a second interaction area associated with a third actuator.

[0074] In yet another example, the plurality of actuators includes at least three actuators spaced a fixed distance apart and the associated plurality of interaction areas includes at least three interaction areas spaced a variable distance apart, where interaction areas having variable patterns of features can be utilized such that the actuators are differently aligned with respect to the interaction areas.

[0075] Alternatively, in some examples, both groups of actuators and interaction areas have variable distances between adjacent actuators / interaction areas, the important point being that each actuator and interaction area combination is aligned differently relative to each other.

[0076] In some examples, the variable distance is characterized by a constant increasing pitch between two adjacent actuators of the plurality of actuators or between two adjacent interaction regions of the plurality of interaction regions. For example, three actuators are located at 0°, 60°, and 120°, and three interaction regions are located at 1°, 62°, and 123°. In other words, the pitch here is 1°.

[0077] In the described non-limiting example, the distance between the actuators 310A-C is fixed and the distance between the interaction areas 320A-C is variable, or vice versa. Both options are valid.

[0078] In the non-limiting illustrative example of Figures 1A-1G4, each of the three actuators 310A-310C is aligned with respect to its associated interaction area 320A-320C such that at a given time, when each actuator is actuated to engage its associated respective interaction area, it will initially contact a different point within the interaction area, causing a specific incremental rotation characterized by at least a different angular distance or different angular orientation. This can be seen in Figures 1E1-1E3, which show the device 10 before any of the actuators 310A-310C are actuated, i.e., the instantaneous arrangement between the actuators and associated interaction area of ​​Figure 1B. Figure 1E1 is a close-up view of actuator 310A and associated interaction area 320A, Figure 1E2 is a close-up view of actuator 310B and associated interaction area 320B, and Figure 1E3 is a close-up view of actuator 310C and associated interaction area 320C.

[0079] FIG 1E1 shows the instantaneous arrangement between the actuator 310A and the interaction area 320A. As can be seen from FIG 1E1, when the actuator 310A is actuated, it interacts / engages with the interaction area 320A at an interaction point 320A1. Because the interaction area is static (has a fixed spatial relationship with the stator portion) and the actuator is rotatable (has a fixed spatial relationship with the rotor portion), the actuation of the actuator 310A to engage the interaction area 320A at 320A1 causes the actuator to slide from the interaction point 320A1 to a stop point 320A2, which results in the rotor portion 200 rotating counterclockwise a certain angular distance determined by the structure of the interaction area 320A.

[0080] FIG. 1E2 shows the instantaneous alignment between actuator 310B and interaction area 320B (simultaneous with the alignment between actuator 310A and interaction 320A, and between actuator 310C and interaction 320C as shown in FIG. 1E3). As can be seen, when actuator 310B is actuated, it engages with interaction area 320B at interaction point 320B1 and slides from interaction point 320B1 to stop point 320B2, resulting in clockwise rotation of rotor portion 200 by a certain angular distance determined by the structure of interaction area 320B. For example, as can be seen, this angular distance is different from the angular distance caused when actuator 310A is actuated. However, as mentioned above, at least one of the angular distance and the angular direction needs to be different between different actuators and interaction areas.

[0081] 1E3 shows the instantaneous alignment between actuator 310C and interaction area 320C. When actuator 310C is actuated, it engages interaction area 320C at interaction point 320C1 and rotates in a counterclockwise angular direction until it stops at point 320C2. It can be seen that the angular distance here is larger than the angular distance caused by actuation of actuators 310A, 310B if interaction areas 320A-320C are of identical structure.

[0082] In some examples, as described further below in Figures 1F1-1F4 and 1G1-1G4, the multiple actuators and their associated (respective) multiple interaction areas are aligned such that at each given time after one actuator of the multiple actuators is actuated by a remote energy source to engage its associated / respective interaction area and rotate the IOL a particular incremental rotation having a particular angular distance and direction, a subsequent actuator of the multiple actuators is aligned with its associated / respective interaction area and is configured to rotate the IOL the same particular incremental rotation having the same particular angular distance and angular direction when actuated by a remote energy source to engage its associated / respective interaction area.

[0083] In some examples, as also shown in Figures 1F1-1F4 and 1G1-1G4, at least some of the multiple actuators are sequentially actuated in a particular actuation order to rotate the IOL in successive incremental rotations having equal angular distances and the same angular direction when sequentially engaging associated multiple interaction areas.

[0084] FIG. 1F1 shows the device 10 at time "0" before the actuators are actuated to engage with their associated interaction areas. As can be seen from the close-up views of all the actuators and their respective interaction areas, each of the actuators 310A-310C is aligned differently with respect to the associated interaction area 320A-320C. In each close-up view, the arrows indicate the particular portion of the interaction area with which the respective actuator will interact. The arrows indicate that particular portion of the interaction area in all the views before, during and after the interaction occurs. That is, arrow AR1 indicates the portion of the interaction area 320A where the engagement between actuator 310A and interaction area 320A will occur, arrow AR2 indicates the portion of the interaction area 320B where the engagement between actuator 310B and interaction area 320B will occur, and arrow AR3 indicates the portion of the interaction area 320C where the engagement between actuator 310C and interaction area 320C will occur.

[0085] 1F2-1F4 show clockwise rotation of the rotor portion as a result of sequentially actuating the three actuators 310A, 310B, 310C in that order three times, resulting in three incremental, even clockwise rotations of the rotor portion.

[0086] FIG. 1F2 shows the end position of the engagement of the actuator 310A with the interaction area 320A. As can be seen, the actuator reaches the lowest point 320AL of the relevant portion of the interaction area 320A, where no further movement can occur. Another actuation of the actuator 310A will not cause any relative movement between the rotor and stator parts, i.e., there will be zero movement between them. As shown in FIG. 1F3, before the actuator 310B is actuated to engage the interaction area 320B, as will be described below, the actuator 310A is relaxed to disengage from the interaction area 310A. FIG. 1F2 also shows the new alignment between the actuator 310B and the interaction area 320B, which affects a subsequent clockwise incremental rotation having the same angular distance as the engagement between the actuator 310A and the interaction area 320A.

[0087] Similarly, Fig. 1F3 shows the sequential actuation of actuator 310B and its end position during engagement with interaction region 320B, resulting in a second incremental clockwise rotation of the rotor portion. Fig. 1F4 shows the sequential actuation of actuator 310C and its end position during engagement with interaction region 320C, resulting in a third incremental clockwise rotation of the rotor portion. As can be seen in Fig. 1F4, actuator 310A is positioned relative to interaction region 320A in a similar manner to Fig. 1F1, allowing for another cycle or partial cycle of incremental rotation, if desired. Meanwhile, actuation of actuator 320B results in an incremental counterclockwise rotation, allowing the IOL position to be corrected in the opposite direction.

[0088] With reference to Figures 1G1-1G4, it will be seen that they show a similar sequence of actuation of the actuators to affect sequential counterclockwise incremental rotation of the rotor portion, where the actuators are actuated in the reverse order, i.e. 310C, 310B, 310A. Figure 1G1 shows the device at time "0", Figure 1G2 shows the end position of the engagement of actuator 310C with interaction area 320C resulting in an incremental counterclockwise rotation of the rotor portion, Figure 1G3 shows the end position of the engagement of actuator 310B with interaction area 320B resulting in a second incremental counterclockwise rotation of the rotor portion, and Figure 1G4 shows the end position of the engagement of actuator 310A with interaction area 320A resulting in a third incremental counterclockwise rotation of the rotor portion. As can be seen, after three incremental rotations, actuator 310C returns to a configuration similar to that of Figure 1G1 relative to interaction region 320C, allowing another cycle or partial cycle of counterclockwise incremental rotation if desired, while actuation of actuator 320B results in an incremental clockwise rotation, allowing the IOL position to be corrected in the opposite direction.

[0089] In some embodiments, as further illustrated below, at least some of the actuators are unidirectional and rotate the IOL in the same particular angular direction when individually actuated to engage the associated interaction regions. That is, they are operable to rotate the IOL in only one direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise. When unidirectional actuators are utilized, the actuators may all be unidirectional in the same angular direction, or the actuators may include a first group of unidirectional actuators operable to rotate the IOL in a clockwise direction when sequentially actuated to engage the associated interaction regions, and a second group of unidirectional actuators operable to rotate the IOL in a counterclockwise direction when sequentially actuated to engage the associated interaction regions.

[0090] In some embodiments, at least some of the actuators are bidirectional and, when individually actuated to engage with an associated plurality of interaction areas, cause the IOL to rotate in either a clockwise or counterclockwise angular direction based on their temporary positioning relative to the associated interaction areas.

[0091] In some embodiments, at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators have a length dimension that defines them as unidirectional or bidirectional actuators configured to rotate the IOL in one or two angular directions, respectively, when actuated by a remote energy source. Further examples are provided below.

[0092] In the illustrative example of Figures 1A-1G4, the actuators 310A-310C are all bidirectional. As described above, each of the actuators can rotate the IOL in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction depending on the temporary disposition between the actuator and the associated interaction area. As shown in the figures (e.g., Figures 1E1, 1E2), when actuated, the actuators extend toward the interaction area along a linear, straight actuation path LAP (Figures 1E1, 1E2) and are thus bidirectional and can engage with the interaction area to affect both clockwise and counterclockwise rotation depending on the temporary disposition with the interaction area.

[0093] According to the present invention, an actuator is actuated upon exposure to energy from an energy source. In some embodiments, the actuator, or at least an actuatable portion thereof, transitions from a first rest (disengaged) spatial configuration (e.g., actuator 310A in FIG. 1F1) to a second actuated (engaged) spatial configuration (e.g., actuator 310A in FIG. 1F2) in which contact and engagement of the actuator, or at least a portion thereof, with an interaction region occurs at a particular point, thereby causing a particular rotational movement having an angular distance and angular direction.

[0094] The actuator is also configured to return from the second engaged space configuration to the first disengaged space configuration when the engagement with the interaction region achieves a certain rotational movement. In some embodiments, the actuator includes an actuator resilient portion in communication with the actuator actuatable portion, the actuator resilient portion operable to return the actuator actuatable portion from the second actuated space configuration to the first rest space configuration when the actuator actuatable portion is no longer actuated by the remote energy source. In some embodiments, the resilient portion acts like a spring that biases the actuatable portion back to the rest space configuration. In some embodiments, as further described below, the actuator resilient portion is operable to engage with the associated interaction region to incrementally rotate the IOL when the actuator actuatable portion is actuated by the remote energy source. In other words, either the actuatable portion or the resilient portion may be configured to engage with the interaction region to cause a rotational movement.

[0095] In the illustrative example of Figures 1A-1G4, the actuator includes both an actuatable portion and an elastic portion. For example, as shown in Figures 1C, 1D and 1E1, the actuator 310A includes an actuatable portion 310AA configured to be actuated by an energy source and an elastic portion 310AE configured to hold the actuatable portion 310AA in place when in the rest space configuration and to return the actuatable portion 310AA from the actuated space configuration (e.g., Figure 1F2) to the rest space configuration by applying an elastic force to the actuatable portion. As shown, in this example, the elastic portion 310AE forms an integral part of the rotor portion 200, and the actuatable portion 310AA is a separate element trapped between two portions EM1, EM2 of the elastic portion 310AE.

[0096] In some embodiments, to enable the rest and actuated spatial configurations and the shifting between them, the actuator, specifically the actuable portion, can be made partially or entirely from a shape memory material and / or a bimetallic material operable to provide a second actuated spatial configuration when the actuable portion is exposed to energy from a remote energy source.

[0097] In some embodiments, the stator portion comprises a superelastic material. In some embodiments, the rotor portion comprises a superelastic material. The superelastic material allows the device, or a major portion thereof, to be collapsible when an external force of a certain magnitude is applied, and to return to its original shape without deformation when the external force is removed.

[0098] In some embodiments, the shape memory material is a specially engineered Nitinol (nickel-titanium alloy) selected for its biocompatibility and design flexibility, hi some embodiments, the superelastic material is a specially engineered Nitinol or bimetal.

[0099] Nitinol can be designed as a superelastic material in a certain temperature range and as a shape memory material in a certain temperature range. Generally, Nitinol is configured to change its structure from the martensite phase to the austenite phase over a gradient of several degrees Celsius. The gradient of temperature and the phase transformation temperature can be programmed as required. For example, Nitinol alloys can be designed to be flexible in the martensite phase up to about 40°C, and can be formed into a desired shape by an external force. On the other hand, increasing the temperature to about 60°C will cause a phase transition to the austenite phase, and Nitinol will change (deform) to a shape stored in its "memory" even while subjected to a certain magnitude of external force, for example, to form a second working spatial configuration of the actuable portion of the actuator. When the temperature returns to about 40°C, Nitinol returns to its flexible state and can be reformed into a desired shape providing a resting spatial configuration. The stator and rotor portions can be designed to be superelastic near room temperature so that they can be folded while inserted into the lens capsule. For example, a stator portion can be designed to be superelastic near room temperature so that it can be folded while inserted into the lens capsule.2 The device can be configured to be foldable so that a cross section of area of ​​1.8 mm (corresponding to a circle diameter of 1.8 mm, although the cross section can be shaped like an oval) can be passed through.

[0100] The interaction regions are configured to allow rotational movement of the rotor portion as a result of engagement between the actuators and the interaction regions. In some embodiments, at least some of the interaction regions are defined by a series of ridges / teeth. Each of two adjacent teeth is separated by one depression / valley between them. In some embodiments, multiple interaction regions may be defined by different series of ridges / teeth having different sizes. In some embodiments, the teeth in the interaction regions are symmetric. In some embodiments, the teeth in the interaction regions are asymmetric. An asymmetric configuration is advantageous when the motion system includes only two actuators and two respective interaction regions, because in this way the actuators can move between adjacent teeth to rotate the IOL along a long angular distance.

[0101] In the non-limiting example of Figures 1A-1G4, the interaction areas 320A-320C are configured as a series of identical symmetrical teeth. For example, Figure 1E4 shows the teeth of the interaction areas. Two teeth 320BT1, 320BT2 are separated by a valley point 320BV. Each tooth has an apex that defines the highest contact / engagement point between the actuator and the interaction area. The apex 320BTT of the tooth 320BT2 is shown. The valley point 320BV defines the final contact / engagement point of the actuator with the interaction area. Each side of the tooth defines an engagement path that is maximum between the apex and the valley point of the tooth. The actuator can contact / engage the tooth at any point between the apex and the valley point that serves as the end point of the movement each time the actuator engages the interaction area. Thus, in this non-limiting example, it will be understood that each actuator can be actuated only once, and that subsequent actuation of the same actuator will not result in relative movement between the rotor portion and the stator portion unless at least one other actuator (typically the next actuator in the series of actuators) is actuated after the initial actuation of the actuator.

[0102] The above-mentioned configuration of the interaction area formed by a series of ridges / teeth separated by a series of depressions / valleys allows for the interaction area to have relatively large / big features (ridges / teeth), which can facilitate the manufacturing process of the device while still achieving small incremental rotational movements of the IOL, since each engagement between the actuator and the interaction area results in a relative movement of the actuator over a portion of the feature (ridge / teeth) of the interaction area. In some embodiments, the actuator is aligned with respect to the interaction area such that approximately half, a third or a quarter of the ridge / teeth is in the engagement path. In some embodiments, each ridge / teeth defines an incremental rotation of an angular distance of 0.6º or more. In some embodiments, the incremental rotation (forming a portion of the tooth / ridge) has an angular distance of 0.3º or more. Although not specifically shown, the stator and / or rotor portion can be provided with scale marks to help the device operator identify the exact angular position of the IOL (both old and new positions, pre-displacement and post-displacement positions).

[0103] Although each actuator has its own interaction area, this is illustrative and primarily functional, it will be appreciated that there may be a single structurally continuous interaction area, e.g. a circular interaction area extending around the entire inner circumference of the stator portion, with which multiple actuators interact.

[0104] The remote energy source ES is configured and operable to provide actuation energy to the actuators. Typically, each actuator is actuated individually. In some embodiments, the remote energy source ES requires a direct / uninterrupted line of sight / path between the remote energy source and the actuators to be remotely actuated, while in some other embodiments, there is no such requirement and actuation can be achieved without a direct line of sight. In some embodiments, the remote energy source ES is configured and operable to provide actuation energy in the form of heat. This is particularly important when the actuators are made from Nitinol, as described above. In some embodiments, the remote energy source ES includes at least one radiating element operable to heat the actuators by irradiation. In some embodiments, the remote energy source ES includes an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and the actuators include corresponding electromagnetic radiation receivers. In some embodiments, the remote energy source ES is a laser light source. In some embodiments, the laser light source is configured and operable to provide continuous laser radiation. In some embodiments, the laser light source is configured and operable to provide light in the green spectrum (so-called argon laser). In some embodiments, the laser light source includes one or more laser diodes. In some embodiments, the laser source is configured and operable to generate a laser having a laser power of 0.1-5 Watts, a laser pulse width of 200-1000 ms.

[0105] 2A-2D, another non-limiting example of a device 10A incorporating features of the present invention is shown: Figure 2A is a perspective view of device 10A, Figure 2B is an exploded view, Figure 2C shows the rotor and stator portions and the motion system, and Figure 2D is a close-up view of the motion system.

[0106] 2A, device 10A includes a cavity 202A configured to receive an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis OA by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which, as noted above, is not part of device 10A). Device 10A includes an outer stator portion 100A, an inner rotor portion 200A, and a motion system 300A operable to rotate, by the remote energy source ES, the inner rotor portion 200A fixedly attached to the IOL relative to the outer stator portion 100A fixedly positioned within the capsular bag of the eye with the aid of two fixedly attached haptics 102A.

[0107] In this example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the device 10A also includes a back cover 400A configured and operable to limit the axial (along the direction of the optical axis OA) displacement of the rotor portion 200A. A front cover (not shown) as well as a back cover can also be attached to any of the example devices described herein to control and limit the axial displacement of the rotor portion and possibly at least a portion of the motion system. The front cover and / or the back cover can be fixed (attached to the stator portion) or rotatable (attached to the rotor portion).

[0108] As clearly shown in FIG. 2C, in this non-limiting example, the motion system 300A includes six actuators 312A-312F. Each actuator includes an actuatable portion and a resilient portion, as described above. That is, the actuators 312A-312F include actuatable portions 312AA-312FA and resilient portions EM1A-EM6A, respectively. In this non-limiting example, the actuatable portions of the actuators are integral with the rotor portions, and the resilient portions are separate elements fixedly coupled to the rotor portions.

[0109] As shown, the motion system 300A includes three interaction areas 322A-322C associated with six actuators 312A-312F. The interaction areas are a series of ridges / teeth similar to the interaction areas of device 10. Interaction area 322A is associated with actuators 312A, 312B, interaction area 322B is associated with actuators 312C, 312D, and interaction area 322C is associated with actuators 312E, 312F. As can be seen in FIG. 2C, each of the actuators (at least an actuatable portion) is differently positioned with respect to its associated interaction area.

[0110] In this non-limiting example, each of the actuators is unidirectional and can rotate the rotor portion and IOL in either a clockwise or counterclockwise angular direction when engaged with the associated interaction area. This is because the curved structure of the actuator's actuatable portion allows the actuator portion to move on a curve toward the interaction area when actuated by a remote energy source, rather than along a straight line as with the actuators included in device 10, and the curved path allows the actuator portion of the actuator to engage only one side of the ridge / tooth. Actuators 312A, 312C, 312E rotate the rotor portion and IOL in a clockwise direction, while actuators 312B, 312D, 312F rotate the rotor portion and IOL in a counterclockwise direction. FIG. 2D illustrates the unidirectional nature of the actuators of device 10A. As shown, when actuator 312E with actuatable portion 312EA is actuated, it moves counterclockwise (to the left of actuatable portion 312EA) along a curved actuation path CAP1 to engage the left side of the tooth. As discussed above, this engagement between the actuatable portion 312EA and the ridges / teeth causes the rotor portion to rotate in a clockwise direction. In comparison, when actuator 312F with actuatable portion 312FA is actuated, it moves clockwise (to the right of actuatable portion 312FA) along curved actuation path CAP2 and engages with the right side of the teeth. As discussed above, this engagement between actuatable portion 312FA and the ridges / teeth causes the rotor portion to rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0111] The remaining features described with respect to device 10 are also applicable with respect to device 10A unless specifically mentioned.

[0112] 3A-3D, another non-limiting example of a device 10B incorporating features of the present invention is shown: Fig. 3A is a perspective view of device 10B, Fig. 3B is an exploded view, Fig. 3C shows the rotor and stator portions and the motion system, and Fig. 3D is a close-up view of the motion system.

[0113] 3A, device 10B includes a cavity 202B configured to receive an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis OA by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which, as mentioned above, is not part of device 10B). Device 10B includes an outer stator portion 100B, an inner rotor portion 200B, and a motion system 300B operable by the remote energy source ES to rotate the inner rotor portion 200B, which is fixedly attached to the IOL, relative to the outer stator portion 100B, which is fixedly positioned within the capsular bag of the eye with the aid of two haptics (not shown) attachable to an attachment portion 102B forming an integral part of stator portion 100B.

[0114] 3B is an exploded view of device 10B and shows motion system 300B including a round / circular interaction area 324 that is associated with all of the actuators and forms an integral part of stator portion 100B, formed by a series of ridges / teeth spaced apart by depressions / valleys as described above. The motion system also includes six actuators 314A-314F which are unidirectional actuators similar to those of device 10A, as described further below.

[0115] As clearly shown in Figure 3C, in the motion system (300B in Figure 3A), in this non-limiting example, each actuator includes an actuatable portion and a resilient portion that can operate as described above. That is, actuators 314A-314F include actuatable portions 314AB-314FB and resilient portions EM1B-EM6B, respectively. In this non-limiting example, both the actuatable portion and the resilient portion of the actuator are separate elements fixedly coupled to a rotor portion so as to rotate together about the optical axis OA of the lens.

[0116] In this non-limiting example, as shown in FIG. 3D, the elastic portion of the actuator is the portion of the actuator that engages with the interaction area to cause rotational movement of the rotor portion and the IOL. Close-up FIG. 3D1 shows the actuator in an unactuated state, and close-up FIG. 3D2 shows the actuator in an actuated state. In the actuated state, the actuatable portion 314B, when actuated by a remote energy source, moves along arrows AR1B, AR2B, thereby urging the elastic portion EMB toward the interaction area 324, which in turn engages the ridges / teeth of the interaction area to rotate the rotor portion with the IOL.

[0117] For example, as shown in FIG. 3C, each of the actuators is aligned differently relative to the interaction area so as to cause incremental rotations having different angular distances or orientations when engaging the interaction area.

[0118] In this non-limiting example, each of the actuators is unidirectional and can rotate the rotor portion and IOL in either a clockwise or counterclockwise angular direction when engaged with the associated interaction region. This is because the curved structure of the elastic portion of the actuator causes the elastic portion, when moved by an actuated actuatable portion, to move on a curve toward the interaction region (as described in FIG. 2D, but with respect to the actuatable portion of the actuator), rather than along a straight line as with the actuators included in device 10, and the curved path allows the elastic portion of the actuator to engage only one side of the ridges / teeth. Actuators 314A, 314C, 314E rotate the rotor portion and IOL counterclockwise, and actuators 314B, 314D, 314F rotate the rotor portion and IOL clockwise.

[0119] The remaining features described with respect to device 10 are also applicable with respect to device 10B unless specifically mentioned.

[0120] 4A-4C, another non-limiting example of a device 10C incorporating features of the present invention is shown, with FIG 4A being a perspective view of device 10C, FIG 4B being an exploded view, and FIG 4C showing rotor and stator portions and motion system 300C.

[0121] 4A, device 10C includes a cavity 202C configured to receive an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis OA by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which, as noted above, is not part of device 10C). Device 10C includes an outer stator portion 100C, an inner rotor portion 200C, and a motion system 300C operable by the remote energy source ES to rotate the inner rotor portion 200C, which is fixedly attached to the IOL, relative to the outer stator portion 100C, which is fixedly positioned within the capsular bag of the eye with the aid of two fixedly attached haptics 102C.

[0122] FIG. 4B is an exploded view of device 10C, showing a motion system 300C that includes three interaction areas 326A-326C associated with three actuators 316A-316C, respectively.

[0123] In this example, as shown in FIG. 4B, the device 10C also includes a front cover 500C and a rear cover 400C, which together are configured and operable to control and limit axial (along the direction of the optical axis OA) displacement of the rotor portion 200C.

[0124] As shown in Figures 4B and 4C, interaction areas 326A-326C form an integral part of stator portion 100C and are each formed by a series of ridges / teeth spaced apart by depressions / valleys, as described above.

[0125] As clearly shown in Fig. 4C, in the motion system 300C, in this non-limiting example, each actuator includes an actuatable portion that can operate as described above and an elastic portion that is operable to engage with an interaction region to return the actuatable portion to its rest spatial configuration. That is, the actuators 316A-316C include actuatable portions 316AC-316CC and elastic portions EM1C1-EM3C2, respectively. In this non-limiting example, the actuatable portions 316AC-316CC of the actuators are separate elements that are fixedly received in appropriate pockets of the rotor portion 200C so as to rotate together about the optical axis OA of the lens, and the elastic portions EM1C1-EM3C2 are integral parts of the rotor portion 200C.

[0126] In this non-limiting example, similar to the example of Figures 3A-3D described above, the elastic portion of the actuator is the portion of the actuator that engages with the interaction region to cause rotational movement of the rotor portion and IOL. When the actuatable portion is actuated by a remote energy source, the actuatable portion deforms and pushes the elastic portion in a direction that engages with the interaction region. The elastic portion in this example includes two sub-portions, one of which contacts the actuatable portion to bias the actuatable portion back to the rest space configuration, the sub-portions being EM1C1, EM2C1, and EM3C1 as shown. The second elastic sub-portion is a long arm that engages with the interaction region, the sub-portions being EM1C2, EM2C2, and EM3C2 as shown. One reason for having two sub-portions is that the long arm may be weak and not substantially effective in returning the actuatable portion to the rest space configuration. For example, as shown, when actuated, actuable portion 316AC moves in the direction of arrow AR1C, pushing elastic portions EM1C1, EM1C2 toward interaction area 326A, where elastic portion EM1C2 engages with the ridges / teeth of the interaction area and rotates the rotor portion along with the IOL.

[0127] For example, as shown in FIG. 4C, each of the actuators is aligned differently relative to its respective interaction area such that at each given time, each actuator causes an incremental rotation having a different angular distance or orientation when it engages its respective interaction area.

[0128] In this non-limiting example, each of the actuators is bidirectional and when engaged with an associated interaction area, can rotate the rotor portion and the IOL clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the temporary arrangement between the actuator and the associated interaction area. The actuators are bidirectional due to the long length of the elastic portion. As can be seen, each elastic portion extends over about one third of the inner circumference of the rotor portion. As shown, the length of the elastic portion EM1C2 corresponds to the length of ArcL extending over the third circle. Due to the long length of the elastic portion, its tip that engages with the interaction area moves on a substantially straight path rather than a curved path when moved by the actuated actuatable portion. This straight path allows the elastic portion of the actuator to engage both sides of the ridge / tooth depending on the temporary arrangement. The inventors have experimented and found that by using two actuators each extending over about half a circle, or three actuators each extending over about one third of a circle, a straight path of movement of the actuator portion that engages with the associated interaction area can be obtained.

[0129] The remaining features described with respect to device 10 are also applicable with respect to device 10C unless specifically mentioned.

[0130] 5A and 5B, another non-limiting example of a device 10D incorporating features of the present invention is shown: Figure 2A is a perspective view of device 10D, and Figure 2B is an exploded view showing rotor and stator portions and the motion system.

[0131] As shown in Fig. 5A, the device 10D includes a cavity 202D configured to receive an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis OA by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which, as mentioned above, is not part of the device 10D). The device 10D includes a stator portion 100D located between two rotor sub-portions 200D1, 200D2, and a motion system 300D operable by the remote energy source ES to rotate the rotor sub-portions fixedly attached to the IOL relative to the stator portion 100D fixedly positioned in the capsular bag of the eye with the aid of two haptics attachable to two attachment portions 102D of the stator portion 100D.

[0132] In this example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the rotor portion is defined by two rotor sub-portions that surround the stator portion between them. That is, the two rotor sub-portions are configured and operable to limit the displacement of the stator portion 100D in the axial direction (along the direction of the optical axis OA). The advantage of this configuration of the device 10D is that the rotor sub-portions and the stator portion have substantially the same inner and outer diameters, so that the inner cavity is the largest cavity and can accommodate a larger IOL. Meanwhile, in other examples, the rotor portion is smaller and is surrounded by the stator portion.

[0133] It should be noted that in this non-limiting example, two rotor sub-sections are used, but other examples may use one rotor section located either in front of or behind the stator section. The advantage of the configuration depicted in Figures 5A and 5B is that it provides improved stability and a balanced structure.

[0134] As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, in this non-limiting example, the motion system 300D includes three actuators 317A-C. Each actuator is similarly operable as described above and includes an actuatable portion and two elastic portions associated with the actuatable portion. That is, the actuators 317A-C include three actuatable portions 317AC-CC and six elastic portions EM1C1-EM3C2, each associated with two elastic portions located on the first and second rotor sub-portions, respectively. In this non-limiting example, the elastic portions of the actuators are integrated with the rotor sub-portions, and the actuatable portions are separate elements fixedly connected to the rotor sub-portions in dedicated areas so as to contact the two associated elastic portions located on either side of the stator portion. Each actuatable portion has a depth that extends across the full depth of the stator portion and the two rotor sub-portions (thereby improving the stability of the device).

[0135] As shown, the motion system 300D includes three interaction areas 327A-327C disposed on a stator portion and associated with three actuators 317A-317C. The interaction areas are a series of ridges / teeth similar to the interaction areas of device 10. Interaction area 327A is associated with actuator 317A, interaction area 327B is associated with actuator 317B, and interaction area 327C is associated with actuator 317C. Again, note that each of the actuators (at least the actuatable portion) is aligned differently with respect to its associated interaction area.

[0136] In this non-limiting example, each of the actuators is bidirectional and, when engaged with an associated interaction region, can rotate the rotor portion and the IOL clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the temporary arrangement between the actuator and the associated interaction region. The actuators are bidirectional due to the long length of the actuatable portion (and the elastic portion). As can be seen, each actuatable portion extends over approximately one-third of the inner circumference of the rotor sub-portion. This is similar to the bidirectional function of the actuators of device 10C described above.

[0137] The remaining features described with respect to device 10 are also applicable with respect to device 10D unless specifically mentioned.

[0138] 6A-6G, another non-limiting example of a device 10E incorporating features of the present invention is shown, with Fig. 6A being a front view of the device 10E, Fig. 6B being an exploded view, and Figs. 6C-6G showing the motion system and various rotations of the IOL about its optical axis.

[0139] As shown in Fig. 6A, the device 10E includes a cavity 202E configured to receive an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis OA by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which, as mentioned above, is not part of the device 10E). The device 10E includes an outer stator portion 100E, an inner rotor portion 200E, and a motion system 300E operable by the remote energy source ES to rotate the inner rotor portion 200E fixedly attached to the IOL relative to the outer stator portion 100E fixedly positioned within the capsular bag of the eye with the aid of two haptics (not shown) attachable to two corresponding attachment portions 102E forming an integral part of the stator portion 100E.

[0140] FIG. 6B is an exploded view of device 10E, showing a motion system 300E including a stator portion 100E, a rotor portion 200E, a back cover 400E, and five interaction areas 328A-328E associated with five actuators 318A-318E, respectively.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 6B, interaction regions 328A-328E form an integral part of stator portion 100E and are each formed as a recess configured to receive a portion of an actuator 318A-318E, respectively.

[0142] The actuator, in this non-limiting example, is devoid of any resilient portion and includes only an actuatable portion, which is a separate element that is fixedly received in a suitable pocket of the rotor portion 200E so as to rotate therewith about the optical axis OA of the lens.

[0143] Each actuator is aligned differently with respect to its associated (respective) interaction area. Each actuator has a base and an arm extending upward from the base along a preset tilt angle. For simplicity, this is illustrated with actuator 318A, but applies to the other actuators as well. As shown, the actuator has a base 318AB fixedly connected to rotor portion 200E, and an arm 318AA extending from the base such that an upper portion of the arm is received within recess 328A. There is an angle α between the base and the arm. Each actuator has a different angle α between its base and the arm. In a non-limiting illustrative example, actuator 318A has an angle α=90°, actuator 318B has an angle α=90°-β, actuator 318C has an angle α=90°-2β, actuator 318D has an angle α=90°+β, and actuator 318E has an angle α=90°+2β.

[0144] Each actuator is configured to assume a shape stored in its memory, e.g., α=90°, upon actuation, and engagement with the associated recess results in incremental rotational motion between the rotor and stator portions. In this case, for example, actuation of actuator 318A does not cause actuator 318A to change its shape or produce any motion. Furthermore, due to the absence of elastic portions, the actuator remains in the right angle shape (α=90°) even after cooling. That is, in this example, each actuator can only be actuated once.

[0145] 6D-6G show different displacements of the rotor portion relative to the stator portion, with FIG. 6D showing a new relative position between the rotor portion and the stator portion after actuation of actuator 318B resulting in an incremental clockwise rotation of the rotor portion of angle β, FIG. 6E showing a new relative position between the rotor portion and the stator portion after actuation of actuator 318C resulting in an incremental clockwise rotation of the rotor portion of angle 2β, FIG. 6F showing a new relative position between the rotor portion and the stator portion after actuation of actuator 318D resulting in an incremental counterclockwise rotation of the rotor portion of angle β, and FIG. 6G showing a new relative position between the rotor portion and the stator portion after actuation of actuator 318E resulting in an incremental counterclockwise rotation of the rotor portion of angle 2β. It will be appreciated that the arrangement described allows for either a clockwise rotation of up to 2β or a counterclockwise rotation of up to 2β. It will also be appreciated that actuator 318A can be actuated after each actuation of another actuator to return the rotor portion to its initial position, as shown in Figure 6C. Increasing the number of actuators can increase the range of incremental rotational distances (angles).

[0146] 7A and 7B, another non-limiting example of a device 10F incorporating features of the present invention is shown: Fig. 7A shows the rotor and stator portions and the motion system, and Fig. 7B is a close-up view of the motion system.

[0147] 7A, device 10F includes a cavity 202F configured to receive an IOL and is operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis OA by absorbing energy from a remote energy source ES (which, as noted above, is not part of device 10F). Device 10F includes an outer stator portion 100F, an inner rotor portion 200F, and a motion system 300F operable by the remote energy source ES to rotate the inner rotor portion 200F, which is fixedly attached to the IOL, relative to the outer stator portion 100F, which is fixedly positioned within the capsular bag of the eye with the aid of other components (not shown), such as two haptics.

[0148] The motion system 300F includes a round / circular interaction area 329 associated with all the actuators and forming an integral part of the stator portion 100F on its interior side, formed by a series of ridges / teeth spaced apart by depressions / valleys, as described above. Again, different actuators are aligned with corresponding different interaction areas. The motion system 300F also includes four actuators 319A-319D that are unidirectional actuators, similar in operation to the actuators of the devices 10A, 10B, as described further below. The two nearby actuators 319A, 319B are responsible for clockwise rotation of the rotor and IOL, and the other two nearby actuators 319C, 319D are responsible for counterclockwise rotation of the rotor and IOL.

[0149] 7B, in the motion system, in this non-limiting example, actuator 319A (and similarly the remaining actuators) includes an actuatable portion 319AC and a resilient portion EM1F that can operate as described above. In this non-limiting example, both the actuatable portion and the resilient portion of the actuator are separate elements fixedly connected to a rotor portion for rotation together about the optical axis OA of the lens.

[0150] In this non-limiting example, as shown in FIG. 7B, elastic portion EM1F of actuator 319A is the portion of the actuator that engages with interaction area 329 to cause rotational movement of the rotor portion and IOL. Close-up FIG. 7B1 shows the actuator in an unactuated state. Arrows AR1F, AR2F indicate the paths of movement of actuatable portion 319AC and elastic portion EM1F, respectively, when the actuatable portion is actuated by a remote energy source to urge the elastic portion toward interaction area 329, engaging the ridges / teeth of the interaction area aligned therewith, causing the rotor portion to rotate with the IOL.

[0151] As noted above, in this non-limiting example, each of the actuators is unidirectional and can rotate the rotor portion and the IOL in one angular direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise, when engaged with an associated interaction region, because the curved configuration of the elastic portion of the actuator causes the elastic portion, when moved by an actuated actuatable portion, to move on a curve toward the interaction region (as described in FIG. 2D, but with respect to the actuatable portion of the actuator), rather than along a straight line as with the actuators included in device 10, and the curved path allows the elastic portion of the actuator to engage only one side of the ridges / teeth.

[0152] In this non-limiting example of device 10F, the motion system is an example of a miniature motion system realized by the applicant. As shown, the height of the ridges / teeth is 0.03 mm, the width of the center of the actuatable portion is 0.04 mm, and the thinnest portion of the elastic portion is 0.02 mm. The device outer diameter is 6.00 mm, and the inner diameter for receiving the lens is 5.2 mm. This allows for a large optically active free area, and the motion system occupies a very small area around the optically active free area. In fact, in this non-limiting example, the ratio of the unobstructed optical area (clear optical path) to the area of ​​the entire device is about 73-75%. Generally, in this non-limiting example and in the other devices mentioned above, the nominal depth of the stator and rotor portions is about 0.03-0.1 mm. (Throughout this specification, the word "about" refers to the specified numerical value and a range of ±10% margin around the specified numerical value. Other numerical values ​​described herein should be understood to include ±10% margin even if the word "about" is not explicitly attached.) In some embodiments, the IOL holding device, more specifically the compensatory motion system (specifically the actuator) and / or the rotor part of the device, are at least partially isolated from the inside of the eye by a protective shield device or assembly that prevents interaction between the eye and the moving parts of the IOL holding device (moving parts is used here to refer to the motion system, specifically the actuator, and the rotor part, as well as any moving parts of the IOL holding device). Such interaction may inhibit the function of the motion system and / or the rotor part of the IOL holding device. When the IOL holding device and IOL are inserted into the anterior chamber of the eye, a slit / wound is created in the eye wall (scleral tissue), which initiates a biological reaction to heal the wound. One such substance is intraocular fibrin, which is a fibrous substance that, when it enters the motion system and / or the rotor part, impedes the movement of the moving parts. Furthermore, posterior capsule opacification (PCO), also known as "secondary cataract," is the most common postoperative complication of cataract extraction. In PCO, the posterior capsule becomes secondarily opacified due to the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of lens epithelial cells (LECs).

[0153] 8A1-8G2, non-limiting examples of shield devices / assemblies for use with the IOL retention devices of the present invention or other IOL retention devices are shown.

[0154] A first example is shown in Figures 8A1 and 8A2, which show a protective shield assembly 600 for use with device 10B described above in Figures 3A-3D. Figure 8A1 is an exploded view, and Figure 8A2 is an assembled side view. As shown, two haptics 102F are attached to a mounting portion of device 10B to position and secure device 10B within the capsular bag of the eye.

[0155] In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly comprises one unitary construction that encapsulates the IOL holding device. In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly comprises two or more parts that are attached to various parts of the IOL holding device or at least the moving parts of the motion system. In some embodiments, when two or more parts form the protective shield device / assembly, the two or more parts are combined with each other to form an integrated unitary shield. In some embodiments, the two or more parts are attached, directly or indirectly, to the front side of the stator part of the IOL holding device and optionally also to the back side of the stator part. Attachment to each side of the stator part can be by gluing, welding or other suitable means.

[0156] In the illustrated example, a protective shield assembly 600 includes a front (front) portion 602A and a rear (rear) portion 602B that are attached to the front and rear, respectively, of the stator portion of the device 10B, thereby enclosing and protecting the entire motion system.

[0157] The protective shield device / assembly described herein is configured to have a transparent optical window, thereby allowing light to pass through the IOL from outside the eye toward the retina. In some embodiments, the anterior (entrance) and / or posterior (exit) surfaces of the protective shield device / assembly are configured to allow light to pass through uninterrupted / interfered. In some embodiments, the anterior (entrance) and / or posterior (exit) surfaces of the protective shield device / assembly are configured to interfere with the incoming and outgoing light to enhance the functionality of the IOL. In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly includes one or more optical surfaces.

[0158] In this example, parts 602A, 602B are made from a transparent material that forms a clear optical window that allows light to pass through the IOL to the retina. Part 602A has a curved surface 602AS and part 602B has a curved surface 602BS.

[0159] The protective shield devices / assemblies described herein are configured to allow energy from an energy source ES to pass uninterrupted to at least the actuators of the motion system to enable their actuation.

[0160] The protective shield device / assembly described herein can be manufactured from a variety of suitable biocompatible materials. In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly is manufactured in whole or in part from the same materials that are commonly used to manufacture intraocular lenses. In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly is made in whole or in part from flexible and / or elastic materials that can be folded to facilitate insertion into the eye and can be restored without distortion.

[0161] In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly comprises polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). In some embodiments, the protective shield device / assembly is made entirely of PMMA. In some embodiments, some or all of the protective shield device / assembly is made of hydrophobic PMMA. In some embodiments, some or all of the protective shield device / assembly is made of hydrophilic PMMA. In some embodiments, some or all of the protective shield device / assembly is made of silicon.

[0162] The protective shield devices / assemblies described herein can provide additional toughness and / or rigidity to the shield and device combination, allowing flexibility in the design of the device, for example, allowing for thinner components of the stator and / or rotor and / or motion system to be used, resulting in easier insertion of the IOL retention device into the capsular bag.

[0163] 8B1 and 8B2 show another non-limiting example of a protective shield device / assembly. FIG. 8B1 is a perspective view of the assembled shield and device combination, and FIG. 8B2 is an exploded view. In this example, protective shield device 600B encases and encapsulates device 10B having an IOL. Protective shield device 600B includes anterior portion 602BA and posterior portion 602BB that can be attached to each other by means known in the art, e.g., clips, male-female attachment, etc. Since device 10B is enclosed inside protective shield device 600B, in this non-limiting example, one or more portions of the protective shield device, such as anterior portion 602BA, can include haptics.

[0164] In the non-limiting examples of both Figures 8A1-8A2 and 8B1-8B2, the protective shield device / assembly also functions as a cover to limit / prevent displacement of the rotor / stator / motion system in the axial (optical) direction, similar to the front and back covers described above, for example, in Figure 4B, which allows for fewer functional parts to be included in the IOL retention device.

[0165] 8C1 and 8C2 show another non-limiting example of a protective shield device / assembly. FIG. 8C1 is a perspective exploded view, and FIG. 8C2 is a side view of the front and back portions of the protective shield device / assembly 600C. The protective shield device / assembly 600C includes a front portion 600CA and a back portion 600CB configured to be indirectly attached to the stator portion of the device 10B, which are attached to the front cover 500H and the back cover 400H, which are attached to the front and back of the stator portion, respectively, to limit the displacement of the IOL-retaining device along the axial direction. All of the above-mentioned attachments are made by gluing, welding, etc. As shown in FIG. 8C2, the front portion 600CA and the back portion 600CB include flat outer surfaces 602CAS, 602CBS, respectively, which can minimize optical interference with the light passing through the IOL.

[0166] Referring to Figures 8D1 and 8D2, another non-limiting example of a protective shield device / assembly is shown. Figure 8D1 is a perspective exploded view, and Figure 8D2 is a cross-sectional view of a protective shield device / assembly 600D with an IOL and a retention device housed therein. The protective shield device / assembly 600D includes a front (anterior) portion 602DA, a back (posterior) portion 602DB, and a side portion 602DC, which are configured to be attached to each other and form a housing that covers and encloses the IOL2 and the IOL retention device 10I. The side portion 602DC includes two haptics 602I that facilitate implantation in the ocular capsule. It should be noted that in this example or other examples herein, the side portion can form an integral part of either the front or back portion / cover, or both. This non-limiting example illustrates another way in which the displacement of the IOL retention device along the axial direction can be limited. As shown, the IOL2 is formed with a groove IOLG along its periphery. The rotor portion 200I of the device 10I is configured to be inserted / received within the groove IOLG, and the distal (inner) portion of the stator portion 100I is also configured to be inserted within the groove IOLG, while the proximal (outer) side of the stator portion is fixedly attached to the side portion 602DC of the protective assembly 600D. In this case, the motion system 300I is also disposed within the groove IOLG. The described configuration provides stable axial retention of the IOL2, preventing slippage of the IOL2 along the axial direction, while allowing stable rotation about the optical axis.

[0167] In some embodiments (not limited to this example), the protective shield assembly includes one or more holes / channels to allow passage / flow of certain fluids, such as aqueous humor, between the inside and outside of the protective shield housing, while preventing other components, such as fibrin, from entering the inside of the protective shield to prevent interaction with and damage to the moving parts. The holes / channels can also promote pressure stability, as the internal volume can be filled with physiological liquid before folding and implantation. The liquid also facilitates unfolding after implantation. In this non-limiting example, the front cover and the back cover each include such holes / channels 602DH1, 602DH2.

[0168] Referring to Figures 8E1 and 8E2, another non-limiting example of a protective shield device / assembly is shown. Figure 8D1 is an exploded view, and Figure 8D2 is a cross-sectional view of the protective shield device / assembly 600E. In this example, the protective shield device / assembly 600E includes only a side portion 602EC, which includes two haptics 602J that facilitate implantation in the ocular capsule. In this non-limiting example, another method similar to the example of Figures 8D1 and 8D2 is used to limit the displacement of the IOL retention device along the axial direction. As shown, the IOL3 has a groove IOLJ formed along its periphery. The rotor portion 200J of the device 10J is configured to be inserted within the groove IOLJ, and the distal (inner) portion of the stator portion 100J is also configured to be inserted within the groove IOLG, while the proximal (outer) portion of the stator portion is received in a groove 604J formed on the inner side of the side portion 602EC of the protective assembly 600E. In this case, the motion system 300J is also disposed in the sulcus IOLJ. Such a configuration provides stable axial support for the IOL3, preventing axial slippage of the IOL3 and allowing stable rotation about the optical axis.

[0169] As shown, the protective shield assembly in this example does not include the front and back covers described in the previous examples. The motion system 300J is protected by being enclosed within the sulcus IOLJ and further by keeping the periphery of the IOL2 as close as possible to the inside of the side portion 602EC in a predetermined approximate position, as shown in the close-up view of FIG. 8E2. The predetermined approximate position is selected to prevent intrusion of fibrin and other unwanted biological tissue into the moving parts while still allowing rotational motion with minimal friction.

[0170] 8F1-8F3 show another non-limiting example of a protective shield device / assembly. FIG. 8F1 is an exploded view, and FIGS. 8F2 and 8F3 are cross-sectional views of a protective shield device / assembly 600F incorporating an IOL therein. In this example, the protective shield device / assembly 600F includes an anterior portion 602FA and a posterior portion 602FB that are attached to each other and configured to internally enclose an IOL4 and an IOL retention device 10K. The anterior portion 602FA is provided with two haptics 602K that facilitate implantation within the ocular capsule. In this non-limiting example, the IOL4 has one of its optical sides IOL4S1 cut to accommodate the rotor portion 200K of the retention device 10K therein. The motion system 300K is covered by the IOL4 on one side and exposed on the other side. This configuration allows the optical zone of the IOL4 to be larger than in the example described in Figures 8D1-8E2, facilitating manufacturing and preserving the optical properties of the IOL. Comparing Figure 8F3 with Figure 8F2, the addition of two ring-like members 606ER1, 606ER2 limits the displacement of the moving parts and the IOL in the axial direction and further protects the motion system, at least on the opposite side of the lens. The two members are attached to either side of the stator portion 100K and extend distally beyond the inner side of the stator portion such that the outer side of the rotor portion 200K that abuts the inner distal side of the stator is also located between the two members, thereby preventing axial displacement of the rotor portion together with the IOL4 attached thereto.

[0171] 8G1 and 8G2 show yet another example of a protective shield device / assembly 600G. FIG. 8G1 is an exploded view, and FIG. 8G2 is a cross-sectional view of the protective shield device / assembly 600G. Similar to the example of FIG. 8E1 and FIG. 8E2, in this example, the protective shield device / assembly 600G includes only a side portion 602GC, which includes two haptics 602L that facilitate implantation inside the ocular capsule. In this non-limiting example, another method similar to the example of FIG. 8E1 and FIG. 8E2 is used to limit the displacement of the IOL retention device along the axial direction while protecting the motion system 300L. As shown, the IOL5 is formed with a groove IOLL along its periphery. The rotor portion 200L of the device 10L is configured such that its inner side is partially inserted and secured inside the groove IOLL, and its outer side is partially inserted inside the groove 604L of the side portion 602GC to prevent axial movement. The stator portion 100L is received within the groove 604L of the side portion 602GC. The outer periphery of the IOL5 and the inner periphery of the side portion 602GC are cut / chamfered in opposing alignment such that the inner periphery of the side portion 602GC is received within the outer periphery of the IOL5 in a male-female configuration, creating a predetermined overlap between the side portion and the IOL. This overlap between the inner periphery of the side portion and the outer periphery of the IOL shields the motion system 300L, which is safely located within the groove 604L, while maintaining minimal friction to allow unhindered rotation of the IOL. Again, as in the examples of Figures 8E1 and 8E2, the protective shield assembly does not include the front and back covers described in the previous examples in order to fully protect the motion system within the groove from ingress of fibrin and other unwanted tissue.

[0172] The described configuration provides stable axial retention of the IOL 5, preventing axial slippage of the IOL 5 while allowing stable rotation about the optical axis. Thus, it can be seen that the present invention provides a powerful technique for adjusting the position and proper function of an IOL by controllably and precisely remotely displacing the IOL about its optical axis after it has been implanted.

Claims

1. 1. A device configured for implantation within a capsular bag of a human eye to securely hold an intraocular lens (IOL) and operable to rotate the IOL about its optical axis by absorbing energy from a remote energy source, the device comprising: a stator part adapted to be fixedly placed inside the capsule; a rotor portion adapted to be fixedly attached to the IOL; a motion system operable to cause incremental rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL around the optical axis of the IOL relative to the stator portion, the motion system comprising a plurality of actuators having a fixed spatial relationship with the rotor portion and at least one interaction area associated with the plurality of actuators and having a fixed spatial relationship with the stator portion, the plurality of actuators including at least two actuators operable to cause rotation of the rotor portion and the IOL in each of clockwise and counterclockwise angular directions, the plurality of actuators and the at least one interaction area being aligned, such that at each given time, each actuator of the plurality of actuators is differently positioned with respect to its associated interaction area and orients a different interaction point on its associated interaction area, and further configured, when actuated by the remote energy source, to engage with the associated interaction area at each interaction point to rotate the IOL in different incremental rotations having either different angular distances or different angular directions.

2. 10. The device of claim 1, The device is characterized in that the multiple actuators and at least one associated interaction area are aligned, and at each given time after one actuator of the multiple actuators is actuated by the remote energy source to engage an associated interaction area at a respective interaction point to rotate the IOL a specific incremental rotation having a specific angular distance and direction, a subsequent actuator of the multiple actuators becomes aligned with its associated interaction area and is configured, when actuated by the remote energy source to engage its associated interaction area, to rotate the IOL the same specific incremental rotation having the same specific angular distance and direction.

3. 3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, The device is characterized in that the multiple actuators and at least one associated interaction area are aligned, and after an actuator is actuated to engage its associated interaction area and rotate the IOL a particular incremental rotation having a particular angular distance and direction, the actuator becomes misaligned with respect to the associated interaction area, such that subsequent actuation of the actuator to engage the associated interaction area results in zero incremental rotation of the IOL.

4. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, 11. A device, comprising: said plurality of actuators including two actuators spaced a first distance apart; and said associated at least one interaction area including two respective interaction areas spaced a second distance apart, said second distance being different from said first distance.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 11. A device, comprising: said plurality of actuators including at least three actuators spaced a variable distance apart; and said associated at least one interaction area including at least three respective interaction areas spaced a fixed distance apart.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 11. A device, comprising: said plurality of actuators including at least three actuators spaced a fixed distance apart; and said associated at least one interaction area including at least three respective interaction areas spaced a variable distance apart.

7. 7. The device according to claim 5 or 6, The device, wherein the variable distance is characterized by a constant, increasing pitch between two adjacent actuators of the at least three actuators or between two adjacent interaction areas of the at least three respective interaction areas.

8. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, A device, characterized in that at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators, when sequentially actuated in a specific actuation sequence to sequentially engage associated interaction areas, rotate the IOL in sequential incremental rotations having equal angular distances and the same angular orientation.

9. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, A device, characterized in that at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators are unidirectional and rotate the IOL in the same angular direction when individually actuated to engage at least one associated interaction area.

10. 10. The device of claim 9, A device comprising: a first group of unidirectional actuators operable to rotate the IOL in a clockwise direction when sequentially actuated to engage an associated interaction area; and a second group of unidirectional actuators operable to rotate the IOL in a counterclockwise direction when sequentially actuated to engage at least one associated interaction area.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, A device, characterized in that at least some of the actuators of the plurality of actuators are bidirectional and, when individually actuated to engage at least one associated interaction area, rotate the IOL in either a clockwise or counterclockwise angular direction based on their temporary positioning relative to the associated interaction area.

12. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, A device, wherein each of at least some of the plurality of actuators has a length dimension that defines the actuator as a unidirectional actuator or a bidirectional actuator configured to rotate an IOL in one or two angular directions, respectively, when actuated by the remote energy source.

13. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, A device, characterized in that each actuator of the plurality of actuators includes an actuator actuable portion reversibly shiftable between a first rest spatial configuration and a second actuated spatial configuration when actuated by the remote energy source, thereby enabling the actuator to respectively engage and disengage with an associated interaction region.

14. 14. The device of claim 13, a device comprising: a first actuator configured to move said actuator actuable portion from said second actuating space configuration to said first rest space configuration when said actuator actuable portion is no longer actuated by said remote energy source;

15. 15. The device of claim 14, The device, characterized in that the actuator resilient portion is operable to engage an associated interaction area to rotate the IOL in incremental rotations when the actuator actuatable portion is actuated by the remote energy source.

16. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, The device, wherein the actuator actuatable portion comprises a shape memory material operable to provide the first rest space configuration and the second actuated space configuration.

17. 17. The device of claim 16, The device, wherein the shape memory material comprises Nitinol.

18. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, The device, wherein the stator portion comprises a superelastic material.

19. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, The device, wherein the rotor portion comprises a superelastic material.

20. 20. The device according to claim 18 or 19, The device, wherein the superelastic material comprises Nitinol.

21. The device according to any one of claims 18 to 20, The device is approximately 2.54 mm ２ or a cross section having a circular diameter of about 1.8 mm.

22. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, The device, wherein the incremental rotation has an angular distance of 0.3 degrees or greater.

23. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, A device, wherein one or more of said at least one interaction area is defined by a series of teeth.

24. 24. The device of claim 23, A device wherein each tooth defines an incremental rotation of an angular distance equal to or greater than 0.6 degrees.

25. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, A device comprising one or more markings for identifying each actuator of said plurality of actuators, thereby enabling which actuator to be actuated.

26. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, The device further comprises a protective shield assembly configured to at least partially shield the motion system and / or the rotor portion to prevent interaction of the motion system and / or the rotor portion with certain biological tissues that would prevent incremental rotation of the IOL.

27. 27. The device of claim 26, A device, wherein the protective shield assembly comprises front and rear covers configured to shield the motion system and / or the rotor portion from the front and rear sides, respectively, of the device.

28. 28. The device of claim 27, A device, wherein the front and back covers respectively cover the entire front and back sides of the device.

29. 29. The device of claim 28, A device, wherein the front and back covers are configured to be attached directly or indirectly to a stator portion of the device.

30. 30. The device of claim 29, A device, wherein the front and back covers are configured to be attached to a stator portion of the device by gluing and / or welding.

31. 29. The device according to claim 27 or 28, A device, wherein the front and back covers are attachable to one another to form a housing that encloses a stator portion of the device.

32. A device according to any one of claims 26 to 31, The device, wherein the protective shield assembly is configured to allow light entering the eye to pass through the IOL and reach the retina.

33. A device according to any one of claims 26 to 32, 13. A device, comprising: a protective shield assembly configured to allow energy from the remote energy source to reach the actuator.

34. A device according to any one of claims 26 to 33, 11. A device, comprising: said protective shield assembly constructed at least in part from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

35. 35. The device of claim 34, A device, wherein at least a portion of the PMMA is hydrophobic.

36. 35. The device of claim 34, A device, wherein at least a portion of the PMMA is hydrophilic.

37. A device according to any one of claims 26 to 36, A device characterized in that the protective shield assembly has one or more channels that allow the flow of aqueous humor between the inside and outside of the protective shield assembly while preventing interaction of the motion system and / or the rotor portion with certain biological tissue.

38. 27. The device of claim 26, The device, wherein the protective shield assembly comprises a side portion configured to mount to an exterior of the stator portion.

39. 39. The device of claim 38, The device, wherein the side portion includes a circumferential groove configured to fixedly receive at least an outer portion of the stator portion.

40. 40. The device of claim 39, The device, wherein the groove is configured to receive therein all of the stator portion and further to receive at least an exterior of the motion system and rotor portion.

41. 1. An IOL system comprising: - a device according to any one of claims 38 to 40, an IOL having a groove formed along its circumference and adapted to receive at least an inner part of said rotor portion therein.

42. 42. The IOL system of claim 41, An IOL system characterized in that the inner sides of the side portions are configured to engage with the outer peripheral sides of the IOL in a male-female configuration, respectively, to shield the motion system and rotor portion housed within the groove while enabling rotational movement of the IOL.

43. 1. An IOL accommodation system comprising: - a device according to any one of claims 1 to 40 or a system according to claim 41 or 42, - a remote energy source configured and operable to provide energy to said plurality of actuators.

44. 44. The system of claim 43, The system, wherein the remote energy source is configured and operable to provide energy in the form of heat.

45. 45. The system of claim 44, The system wherein the remote energy source includes a radiating element.

46. 45. The system of claim 44, The system wherein the remote energy source comprises a laser light source.

47. 47. The system of claim 46, The system, wherein the laser source is configured and operable to provide continuous laser radiation.

48. 48. The system of claim 47, The system, wherein the laser light source is configured as an argon laser light source operable to provide light in the green spectrum.

49. 47. The system of claim 46, The system wherein the laser light source comprises one or more laser diodes.

50. The system according to any one of claims 46 to 49, The system, wherein the laser source is configured and operable to provide a laser power of 0.1 to 5 watts, and a laser pulse width of 200 to 1000 ms.

51. 44. The system of claim 43, The system, wherein the remote energy source includes an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and the plurality of actuators include corresponding electromagnetic radiation receivers.

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