Contact lens packaging with absorbent member

Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved contact lens package. The contact lens package (100) includes a cavity (122) containing a contact lens (160), a packing solution (170), and an absorbent member (180). The absorbent member is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and the absorbent member is in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 154,482, filed January 13, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] In conventional contact lens packaging, contact lenses are typically placed in a molded plastic base with a cavity (or "bowl") that accommodates the contact lens in a concave-side-up orientation. As a result, the user experience for transferring a contact lens from the packaging to the eye generally involves the user "fishing" the contact lens out of the bowl with their fingers and then inverting the lens to orient it correctly on their fingers for placement on the eye. This process requires multiple touches of the lens and can transfer contaminants or pathogens from the hand to the lens and ultimately to the eye. Not only can this handling experience be unhygienic, it is overly cumbersome and messy and places mechanical stress on the lens, which can tear, break, or distort when excessively manipulated. While some packaging is designed to present the lens in a convex-side-up orientation to eliminate the need to invert the lens, many still require the lens to be "fished" out of the packaging solution or otherwise manipulated and / or touched multiple times to achieve transfer of the lens to the eye.

[0003] In light of increasing awareness of eye health and consumer demand for a more convenient experience, a need has arisen for contact lens packaging that allows for a less messy and more hygienic contact lens handling process. The solution in which the lenses are packaged can affect the packaging and the releasability of the lens from the fingers. That is, a hydrophilic lens with excess liquid reduces the surface tension between a person's finger and the lens, making it difficult to achieve proper adhesion between the lens and the finger and making it difficult to remove the lens from the packaging, while a liquid solution in a bowl makes it more difficult to remove the lens from the bowl.

[0004] Among other considerations, variations in the amount of packaging solution adhering to the lens and packaging can affect the process of placing the lens on the finger, and therefore it is desirable for the wearer to be able to drain any packaging solution that may affect the ability to adhere the lens to the finger. A mechanism for efficiently draining the packaging solution from the lens in the package prior to removing the lens from the opened contact lens package onto the user's finger can aid in the removal and insertion process. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] There remains a need for contact lens packaging that provides a mechanism for consistently draining solution from contact lenses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] It has now been discovered that some or all of the foregoing and related objects can be achieved in a contact lens package having one or more aspects described herein. According to certain embodiments, the contact lens package can include a cavity containing a contact lens, a packing solution, and an absorbent member. In certain embodiments, the absorbent member can be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state. As described herein, in some embodiments, the absorbent member can be in a compressed state when the package is in an unopened state and can be configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In this manner, as described herein, the absorbent member can be configured to absorb at least a portion, and in some cases a majority, of the packing solution as the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. In some embodiments, absorption of at least a portion of the packing solution by the absorbent member as the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state can result in a substantial amount of packing solution being expelled from the contact lens, thereby improving the ability to attach the lens to a user's finger for removal from the package and placement on the user's eye. Furthermore, in embodiments in which the absorbent member is biased to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state upon opening of the package, the rate of solution evacuation from the contact lens may be increased compared to other mechanisms that allow but do not facilitate such evacuation. Furthermore, including an absorbent member within the cavity of the package may improve the user experience by reducing spillage of packaging solution associated with opening the package, since a significant amount of solution may be absorbed and contained by the absorbent member. The present disclosure provides various embodiments of contact lens packaging, methods of packaging contact lenses, and methods of opening contact lens packaging.

[0007] In one aspect, a contact lens package is provided. The contact lens package may include a cavity for housing a contact lens, a packaging solution, and an absorbent member. The absorbent member may be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and the absorbent member may be in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

[0008] In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be biased toward the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be positioned adjacent to the contact lens. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may comprise a sponge.

[0009] In some embodiments, the contact lens packaging may also include a base and a lid connected to the base, and a cavity may be formed between the base and the lid. In some embodiments, the base and lid may collectively surround the cavity. In some embodiments, the base and lid may collectively define the cavity. In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the base along the periphery of the cavity when the package is in an unopened state, and the seal between the lid and the base may be at least partially broken when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the base along the entire periphery of the cavity. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the contact lens when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the contact lens when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may extend at least partially over the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be positioned within the cavity such that the convex side of the contact lens faces the lid when the package is in an unopened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be positioned within the cavity such that the convex side of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be positioned within the cavity such that the concave side of the contact lens faces the base when the package is in an unopened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the base. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the lid.

[0010] In some embodiments, the base may include a lens support that supports a contact lens within the cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may include an inner surface having a convex shape, and the inner surface of the lens support may engage with the concave surface of the contact lens. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the lens support may define a portion of the cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may also include an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape. In some embodiments, the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive a convex portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating nesting of multiple packages. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the lens support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the lens support when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the base may also include an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within the cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may include an inner surface having a planar shape. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the absorbent member support may define a portion of the cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may also include an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the absorbent member support when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may at least partially extend over the absorbent member support when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may be positioned adjacent to the lens support. In some embodiments, the lens support may extend above the absorbent member support and may be configured to promote drainage of packaging solution toward the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the base may be substantially rigid, and the lid may be flexible.In some embodiments, the base may be flexible and the lid may be flexible. In some embodiments, the lid may include a foil layer.

[0011] In another aspect, a contact lens package is provided. The contact lens package may include a base and a lid connected to the base. The base and lid may collectively define a cavity for containing a contact lens, a packing solution, and an absorbent member. The absorbent member may be configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, and the absorbent member may be in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

[0012] In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be biased toward the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be positioned adjacent to the contact lens. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may comprise a sponge.

[0013] In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the base along the periphery of the cavity when the package is in an unopened state, and the seal between the lid and the base may be at least partially broken when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may be sealed to the base along the entire periphery of the cavity. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the contact lens when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the contact lens when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may at least partially extend over the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be positioned in the cavity such that the convex side of the contact lens faces the lid when the package is in an unopened state. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be positioned within the cavity such that the convex side of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user when the package is in an open state. In some embodiments, the contact lens may be positioned within the cavity such that the concave side of the contact lens faces the base when the package is in an unopened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the base. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the lid.

[0014] In some embodiments, the base may include a lens support that supports a contact lens within the cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may include an inner surface having a convex shape, and the inner surface of the lens support may engage with the concave surface of the contact lens. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the lens support may define a portion of the cavity. In some embodiments, the lens support may also include an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape. In some embodiments, the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive a convex portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating nesting of multiple packages. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the lens support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the lens support when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the base may also include an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within the cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may include an inner surface having a planar shape. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the absorbent member support may define a portion of the cavity. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may also include an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be connected to the absorbent member support. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may not cover the absorbent member support when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the lid may extend over and cover the absorbent member support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid may at least partially extend over the absorbent member support when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support may be positioned adjacent to the lens support. In some embodiments, the lens support may extend above the absorbent member support and may be configured to promote drainage of packaging solution toward the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state. In some embodiments, the base may be substantially rigid, and the lid may be flexible.In some embodiments, the base may be flexible and the lid may be flexible. In some embodiments, the lid may include a foil layer.

[0015] In yet another aspect, a method of packaging a contact lens is provided that may include placing a contact lens, a packaging solution, and an absorbent member within a cavity of the package, transitioning the absorbent member from an expanded state to a compressed state, and sealing the cavity such that the absorbent member is maintained in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

[0016] In some embodiments, transitioning the absorbent member from the expanded state to the compressed state may include expelling at least a portion of the packaging solution from the absorbent member. In some embodiments, the method may also include absorbing at least a portion of the packaging solution into the absorbent member before placing the absorbent member in the cavity. In some embodiments, the method may also include absorbing a majority of the packaging solution into the absorbent member before placing the absorbent member in the cavity. In some embodiments, the method may also include absorbing all of the packaging solution into the absorbent member before placing the absorbent member in the cavity. In some embodiments, transitioning the absorbent member from the expanded state to the compressed state may include flowing at least a portion of the packaging solution into the cavity toward the contact lens. In some embodiments, transitioning the absorbent member from the expanded state to the compressed state may include flowing at least a portion of the packaging solution from the absorbent member into the cavity toward the contact lens. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be biased to the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be placed adjacent to the contact lens. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may comprise a sponge. In some embodiments, the package may include a base and a lid, a cavity may be formed between the base and the lid, and enclosing the cavity may include connecting the lid to the base such that the absorbent member is maintained in a compressed state between the base and the lid.

[0017] In another aspect, a method of opening a contact lens package is provided. The method may include holding a package, the package including a cavity containing a contact lens, a packing solution, and an absorbent member. The method may also include at least partially opening the cavity to expose the contact lens and allowing the absorbent member to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state such that the absorbent member absorbs at least a portion of the packing solution.

[0018] In some embodiments, the absorbent member may absorb a majority of the packaging solution. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be biased to an expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may be positioned adjacent to the contact lens. In some embodiments, the absorbent member may comprise a sponge. In some embodiments, the package may include a base and a lid, a cavity may be formed between the base and the lid, and the absorbent member may be maintained in a compressed state between the base and the lid when the package is in an unopened state.

[0019] These and other aspects and improvements of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more particular description of specific embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1A] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary contact lens package according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state. [Figure 1B] 1B is an exploded perspective view of the contact lens package of FIG. 1A, showing the base, lid, contact lens, and absorbent member of the contact lens package. [Figure 1C]1C-1C is a side cross-sectional view of the contact lens package of FIG. 1A taken along line 1C-1C of FIG. 1A, showing the contact lens package in an unopened state, with the contact lens, packaging solution, and absorbent member contained within the cavity of the contact lens package, but with the absorbent member in a compressed state. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1B is a side cross-sectional view of the contact lens package of FIG. 1A showing the contact lens package in an opened state with the lid at least partially removed from the base such that the absorbent member transitions from a compressed state to an expanded state, at least a portion of the packaging solution is expelled from the contact lens and absorbed by the absorbent member, and the contact lens is exposed for removal by a user. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, where reference numerals indicate particular elements. The following description is not intended to limit the myriad embodiments to a single preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, as defined by the appended claims.

[0022] References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "an example embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, aspect, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, aspect, or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it is believed to be within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0023] Lens(s) or contact lens(es) refer to ophthalmic devices that reside on the eye. They generally have a hemispherical shape and can provide optical correction, cosmetic enhancement, UV protection and visible light or glare reduction, wound healing, therapeutic effects including delivery of drugs or nutritional supplements, diagnostic evaluation or monitoring, or any combination thereof. The term lens includes soft hydrogel contact lenses, which are generally provided to consumers in packaging in a hydrated state and have a relatively low modulus of elasticity that allows them to conform to the cornea. Contact lenses suitable for use with the packaging of the present invention include all hydrated contact lenses, including conventional hydrogel contact lenses and silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

[0024] Hydrogels are hydrated crosslinked polymeric systems that contain water in an equilibrium state and can contain at least about 25%, or at least 35%, water in the hydrated state. Hydrogels are typically oxygen permeable and biocompatible, making them excellent materials for the manufacture of contact lenses.

[0025] Conventional hydrogel contact lenses do not contain silicone-containing components and generally have higher water content, lower oxygen permeability, modulus, and shape memory than silicone hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels are prepared from monomer mixtures containing primarily hydrophilic monomers such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate ("HEMA"), N-vinyl pyrrolidone ("NVP"), or polyvinyl alcohol. U.S. Patent Nos. 4,495,313, 4,889,664, and 5,039,459 disclose formulations of conventional hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels can be ionic or nonionic and include polymacon, etafilcon, nelfilcon, ocufilcon, renefilcon, and the like. The oxygen permeability of these conventional hydrogel materials is typically less than 20-30 barrers.

[0026] Silicone hydrogel formulations include balafilcon, samfilcon, lotrafilcon A and B, delfilcon, galifilcon, senofilcon A, B and C, narafilcon, comfilcon, formofilcon, liofilcon, fanfilcon, stenfilcon, somofilcon, and califilcon. "Silicone hydrogel" refers to a polymer network made from at least one hydrophilic component and at least one silicone-containing component. Silicone hydrogels can have moduli ranging from 60-200, 60-150, or 80-130 psi, and water contents ranging from 20-60%.Examples of silicone hydrogels include aquafilcon, asmofilcon, balafilcon, comfilcon, delefilcon, enfilcon, funfilcon, formofilcon, galifilcon, lotrafilcon, narafilcon, liofilcon, samfilcon, senofilcon, somofilcon, and stenfilcon and belofilcon (including all variations thereof), as well as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,659,782, 4,659,783, 5,242 ... No. 4,981, No. 5,314,960, No. 5,331,067, No. 5,371,147, No. 5,998,498, No. 6,087,415, No. 5,760,100, No. 5,776,999, No. 5,789,46 1, 5,849,811, 5,965,631, 6,367,929, 6,822,016, 6,867,245, 6,943,203, 7,247,692, 7,249,848, No. 7,553,880, No. 7,666,921, No. 7,786,185, No. 7,956,131, No. 8,022,158, No. 8,273,802, No. 8,399,538, No. 8,470,906, No. 8,4 50,387, 8,487,058, 8,507,577, 8,637,621, 8,703,891, 8,937,110, 8,937,111, 8,940,812, 9,056,8 Silicone hydrogels such as those prepared in US Patent Nos. 78, 9,057,821, 9,125,808, 9,140,825, 9,156,934, 9,170,349, 9,244,196, 9,244,197, 9,260,544, 9,297,928, and 9,297,929, as well as International Publication Nos. 03 / 22321, 2008 / 061992, and US Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0048847. These patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Silicone hydrogels can have a higher shape memory than conventional contact lenses.

[0027] Hydrogel lenses are viscoelastic materials. Contact lenses can develop optical distortions when they interact with the packaging or any air bubbles within the packaging. The degree of optical distortion and the length of time required for the distortion to relax vary depending on the chemistry and, to a lesser extent, the lens geometry. Conventional lens materials, such as polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate-based lenses like etafilcon A or polymacon, have lower loss moduli and tan deltas than silicone hydrogels, and the formation of optical distortions as a result of contact with the packaging may be less severe. The incorporation of silicones (which generally increase the bulk elastic response), wetting agents such as PVP (which generally increase the viscous response), or coatings of conventional hydrogel materials (which may reduce the elastic response at the lens interface) can alter the viscoelastic properties of the lens. Conventional hydrogel contact lenses and silicone hydrogel contact lenses with short or stiff crosslinkers and / or curing agents may have a short shape memory and be less susceptible to deformation during storage. As used herein, a high or higher shape memory hydrogel exhibits an optical strain of at least about 0.18 after 5 weeks of accelerated aging from contact with air bubbles or packaging at 55° C. Viscoelastic properties, including loss modulus and tan delta, can be measured using dynamic mechanical analysis.

[0028] Contact lenses may be of any geometric shape or power, have a generally hemispherical shape, and have a concave posterior surface that rests against the eye in use, and a convex anterior surface that faces away from the eye and contacts the eyelid during blinking.

[0029] The center or apex of the lens is the center of the lens optic zone. The optic zone provides optical correction and can have a diameter of about 7 mm to about 10 mm. The lens periphery or edge is the edge where the anterior and posterior surfaces meet.

[0030] A wet lens is a contact lens and any residual packing solution adhering to it after the packing solution has been expelled. Wetting contact is the total contact area between the wet lens and the lens support.

[0031] An embodiment can include a lens support surrounded by a sealable cavity, also referred to interchangeably as a chamber. The cavity can have any convenient form and can include a packaging base and at least a lid, each of which is described in detail below. As used herein, the terms "the lid," "a lid," "the base," and "a base" encompass both the singular and the plural. The lid and packaging base are sealed together to form a cavity that keeps the contact lens, support, and packaging solution sterile during transport and storage prior to use. The contact lens packaging is made from materials that are compatible with the contact lens and solution, yet are retortable and biologically inert.

[0032] A "film" or "multilayer film" is a film used to seal a package, often referred to as lidstock. Multilayer films used in conventional contact lens packaging can be used in the packages of the present invention as the base, the lid component, or both. The multilayer film contains multiple layers, including a barrier layer, including a foil layer, or a coating, a sealing layer that seals the film to the rest of the package, and can also contain additional layers selected from peel-initiating layers, lamination layers, and layers that improve other package properties, such as rigidity, heat resistance, printability, puncture resistance, and barrier resistance to water or oxygen. The multilayer film forms a steam sterilizable (retortable) seal. The multilayer film can include a PET, BON, or OPP film layer to increase rigidity and heat resistance, or an EVOH or PVDC coating to improve barrier resistance to oxygen or water vapor.

[0033] As used herein, "unopened" or "unopened" refers to a contact lens package that is closed and contains a contact lens in solution.

[0034] As used herein, "opened state" or "open" refers to a contact lens package after the sterilization seal has been broken. Depending on the context described herein, the opened state extends to the state of the package when the user manipulates the package, causing the user to lift and remove the lens from the packaging solution.

[0035] As used herein, "wearer" or "user" refers to a person who opens a contact lens package. A user generally refers to a person who opens the package and moves the contact lens contained therein to their eye. However, a user in some contexts may be a person who handles the lens package on behalf of the wearer, such as an eye care provider ("ECP") or another individual demonstrating for or assisting the wearer.

[0036] The packaging solution may be any physiologically compatible solution that is compatible with the selected lens material and packaging. Packaging solutions include buffer solutions having a physiological pH, such as buffered saline solutions. Packaging solutions may contain known ingredients, including buffers, pH and elasticity adjusters, lubricants, humectants, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, packaging coating ingredients, and the like.

[0037] The packaging base can form the bottom of the package. It can be made of any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including plastic. The packaging lid generally resides in the upper portion of the package and seals the base to form a cavity that contains the lens support, lens, and at least a portion of the packaging solution. The lid can be made of any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including a molded sheet of foil or plastic, a laminated film, or plastic. Packages that include plastic for one structure and foil or laminated film on the other, or foil or laminated film as the outer layer of the lid and base, are known in the art and are examples of suitable combinations.

[0038] References throughout this description to injection molding processes and the use of materials conventionally applied in injection molding should be understood as exemplary. Those skilled in the art will understand that other means of manufacturing are possible within the scope of the appended claims, including, but not limited to, alternative molding processes, thermoforming, 3D printing, and the like. Similarly, references to heat sealing and heat sealing are exemplary of the embodiments described herein. Other means of securing packaging components will be apparent to those skilled in the art, including the use of adhesives, glues, thermal bonds, welding such as heat, ultrasonic, or laser welding, or mechanical traps, and the like.

[0039] Certain aspects of the present invention can help reduce or prevent significant optical damage to contact lenses due to air bubbles or interactions with the interior of the lens packaging that may occur during storage or shipping due to gravity or other forces, such as mechanical pressure applied from outside the packaging. As used herein, significant optical damage means a root-mean-squared (RMS) value of about 0.08 μm or greater.

[0040] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate an exemplary contact lens package 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the contact lens package 100 may include a base 110, a lid 150, a contact lens 160, a packing solution 170, and an absorbent member 180. The contact lens package 100 may have an unopened state, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, and an opened state, as shown in FIG. 1D. When the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the contact lens 160, the packing solution 170, and the absorbent member 180 may be contained within a cavity 122 formed between the base 110 and the lid 150. As described below, the absorbent member 180 may be compressible and maintained in a compressed state within the cavity 122 when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, such that a majority of the packing solution 170 may be disposed around and contact the contact lens 160 to maintain hydration of the lens 160. In this manner, when the contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state, only a minimal amount of packing solution 170 can be contained within the absorbent member 180. If desired, a user may open the contact lens package 100 by at least partially removing the lid 150 from the base 110 to allow access to the contact lens 160. Such opening of the contact lens package 100 may allow the absorbent member 180 to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state, thereby allowing the absorbent member 180 to absorb a substantial amount of the packing solution 170 and effectively expel the packing solution 170 from the contact lens 160. In this manner, such expulsion of the packing solution 170 from the contact lens 160 may allow the user to more easily remove the contact lens 160 from the contact lens package 100. At least partial removal of the lid 150 from the base 110 may expose the contact lens 160, allowing a user to engage and remove the contact lens 150 with the user's fingers. As shown, the lens support 130 of the base 110 can maintain the position and orientation of the contact lens 160 within the cavity 122 when the contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state.1C , contact lens 160 may be housed within cavity 122 and supported by lens support 130 such that the convex surface of contact lens 160 faces lid 150 when contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state. In this way, when contact lens package 100 is opened, a user can engage the convex surface to remove contact lens 160 and subsequently place contact lens 160 on the user's eye, allowing for a convenient and more hygienic experience and avoiding the shortcomings of certain existing contact lens packaging.

[0041] According to the illustrated example, the base 110 may have a first end 112 (which may also be referred to as a “rear end” in certain embodiments) and a second end 114 (which may also be referred to as a “front end” in certain embodiments) that are disposed opposite each other. As shown, the base 110 may have a first side 116 (which may also be referred to as an “upper side” in certain embodiments) and a second side 118 (which may also be referred to as a “lower side” in certain embodiments) that are disposed opposite each other and each extend from the first end 112 to the second end 114. The base 110 may also have a pair of side surfaces 120 that are disposed opposite each other and each extend from the first end 112 to the second end 114. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 110 may include certain portions that have a planar shape and other portions that have a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 110 may include a main portion having a planar shape, an absorbent member support 140 recessed relative to the main portion and having a planar shape, and a lens support 130 extending upward from the absorbent member support 140 beyond the main portion and having a contoured shape. In some embodiments, as shown, the base 110 may define a base cavity that forms a portion of the overall cavity 122 of the contact lens packaging 100. As noted above, the base 110 may be formed from any suitable material. In certain embodiments, the base 110 may be substantially rigid. In other embodiments, the base 110 may be flexible.

[0042] The lens support 130 can at least partially define the cavity 122 and can support the contact lens 160 in a desired position and orientation within the cavity 122. As shown, the lens support 130 can extend upwardly from the absorbent member support 140 and can support the contact lens 160 between the base 110 and the lid 150. In some embodiments, the lens support 130 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 110, as shown. In other embodiments, the lens support 130 can be formed separately and connected to the remainder of the base 110. In some embodiments, the lens support 130 can be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the cavity 122 between the base 110 and the lid 150 and connected to the base 110 by, for example, an adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the lens support 130 can include an inner surface 132 (which in certain embodiments can also be referred to as a “support surface”) that engages and supports the contact lens 160 within the cavity 122. In particular, the inner surface 132 may engage the concave surface of the contact lens 160. In some embodiments, the inner surface 132 may be convex, although other shapes for the inner surface 132 may be used in other embodiments. As shown, the lens support 130 may be formed as a dome extending upward from the absorbent member support 140, and the inner surface 132 may be the convex outer surface of the dome. As shown, the lens support 130 may include an outer surface 134 disposed opposite the inner surface 132 and defining an outer portion of the contact lens package 100. In some embodiments, the outer surface 134 may be convex, the convex shape facilitating nesting of multiple contact lens packages 100 positioned adjacent to one another, such as in a stack, although other shapes for the outer surface 134 may be used in other embodiments. The lens support 130 may be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the lens support 130 may be substantially rigid.

[0043] The absorbent member support 140 can at least partially define the cavity 122 and can support the absorbent member 180 in a desired position and orientation within the cavity 122. As shown, the absorbent member support 140 can be recessed relative to a major planar portion of the base 110 and can support the absorbent member 180 between the base 110 and the lid 150. In some embodiments, as shown, the absorbent member support 140 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the base 110. In other embodiments, the absorbent member support 140 can be formed separately and connected to the remainder of the base 110. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 140 can be provided as a separate component that is disposed within the cavity 122 between the base 110 and the lid 150 and connected to the base 110 by, for example, adhesive or other attachment means. As shown, the absorbent member support 140 can include an inner surface 142 (which can also be referred to as a "support surface" in certain embodiments) that engages and supports the absorbent member 180 within the cavity 122. In particular, the inner surface 142 may engage the bottom surface of the absorbent member 180. In some embodiments, the inner surface 142 may be planar, as shown, although other contoured shapes for the inner surface 142 may be used in other embodiments. As shown, the absorbent member support 140 may include an outer surface 144 disposed opposite the inner surface 142 and defining an outer portion of the contact lens packaging 100. In some embodiments, the outer surface 144 may be planar, although other shapes for the outer surface 144 may be used in other embodiments. The absorbent member support 140 may be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the absorbent member support 140 may be substantially rigid.

[0044] As shown, the lid 150 can be connected to the base 110 and can extend over at least a portion of the base 110 to seal the contact lens 160, packing solution 170, and absorbent member 180 within the cavity 122 when the contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state. In this manner, the base 110 and the lid 150 together can form a sealed cavity 122 for containing the contact lens 160, packing solution 170, and absorbent member 180 until a user desires to open the contact lens package 100 and remove the contact lens 160 for use. In some embodiments, as shown, the lid 150 can extend over and cover the lens support 130, the absorbent member support 140, and other respective portions of the base 110 when the contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state. When the contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state, respective portions of the lid 150 may be sealed to respective adjacent portions of the base 110, such as the portions of the main portion of the base 110 surrounding the lens support 130 and absorbent member support 140, such that the contact lens 160, packing solution 170, and absorbent member 180 are contained within the cavity 122 formed by the base 110 and the lid 150. The seal between the lid 150 and the base 110 may be at least partially broken when the contact lens package 100 is transitioned from the unopened state to the opened state for removal of the contact lens 160. As mentioned above, the lid 150 may be formed from any suitable material. In certain embodiments, as shown, the lid 150 may be flexible.

[0045] The absorbent member 180 is compressible and may be configured to transition between a compressed state, as shown in FIG. 1C , and an expanded state, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1D . In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be biased toward the expanded state, as shown. In this manner, when the contact lens package 100 is in the unopened state, the absorbent member 180 may be compressed between the base 110 and the lid 150 and maintained in a compressed state, and when the contact lens package 100 transitions from the unopened state to the opened state, the absorbent member 180 may automatically transition from the compressed state to the expanded state. As described above, such transition of the absorbent member 180 from the compressed state to the expanded state may allow the absorbent member 180 to rapidly absorb the packing solution 170, thereby facilitating evacuation of the packing solution 170 from the contact lens 160. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packing solution 170 as the absorbent member 180 transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be configured to absorb a majority of the packing solution 170 as the absorbent member 180 transitions from a compressed state to an expanded state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be configured to absorb at least a portion of the packing solution 170 as the contact lens package 100 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be configured to absorb a majority of the packing solution 170 as the contact lens package 100 transitions from an unopened state to an opened state. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be positioned near but slightly spaced from the contact lens 160. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be positioned adjacent to the contact lens 160. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be formed from or include a sponge. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be formed from or include a foam. In some embodiments, the absorbent member 180 may be formed from or include a chamois or shamisen material. A variety of other suitable configurations and materials may be used for the absorbent member 180 .

[0046] 1C and 1D illustrate an exemplary method of opening a contact lens package 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, the contact lens package 100 may be provided and stored in an unopened state, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, until a user desires to open the package 100. With the contact lens package 100 in an unopened state, a user may hold the base 110 and grasp an end region of the lid 150, such as an end region of the lid 150 that is not directly connected to the base 110, as shown in FIG. 1C. The user may at least partially remove the lid 150 from the base 110 by pulling the end region of the lid 150 away from the base 110. In this manner, at least a portion of the seal between the lid 150 and the base 110 may be broken. As shown in FIG. 1D, the lid 150 may be removed from the base 110 such that the contact lens 160, the lens support 130, and at least a portion of the absorbent member 180 are no longer covered by the lid 150. In some embodiments, as shown, the entire absorbent member 180 may be exposed, allowing the absorbent member 180 to transition completely from a compressed state to an expanded state. In some embodiments, the lid 150 may be completely detachable from the base 110. As described above, when the lid 150 is at least partially detached from the base 110, the absorbent member 180 may transition from a compressed state toward or into an expanded state, resulting in at least a portion of the packaging solution 170 being absorbed by the absorbent member 180 and expelled from the contact lens 160. As shown in FIG. 1D , after at least partially detaching the lid 150 from the base 110, a user may engage the contact lens 160 while it is exposed and supported by the lens support 130. According to the illustrated embodiment, in which the lens support 130 supports the concave surface of the contact lens 160, a user may engage the convex surface of the contact lens 160 to remove the contact lens 160 from the lens support 130.As described above, by allowing at least a portion of the packaging solution 170 to drain from the contact lens 160 and be absorbed and contained by the absorbent member 180, a user can easily engage and hold the contact lens 160 on the user's finger. In this manner, the contact lens 160 can be conveniently removed from the lens support 130 and held on the user's finger in a desired concave-side-up orientation, ready to be positioned on the user's eye.

[0047] 1C and 1D can also be seen. The method may generally include placing a contact lens 160, a packing solution 170, and an absorbent member 180 within a cavity 122 of the package 100, as shown in FIG. 1D, transitioning the absorbent member 180 from an expanded state to a compressed state, and sealing the cavity 122 such that the absorbent member 180 is maintained in the compressed state when the package 100 is in an unopened state, as shown in FIG. 1C. In some embodiments, at least a portion, a majority, or all of the packing solution 170 may be applied to and absorbed into the absorbent member 180 either before or after the absorbent member 180 is placed on the base 110. In this manner, transitioning the absorbent member 180 from the expanded state to the compressed state may include causing at least a portion of the packing solution 170 to be expelled from the absorbent member 180 and flowing at least a portion of the packing solution 170 from the absorbent member 180 toward the contact lens 160 for the purpose of hydrating the contact lens 160 within the cavity 122. In some embodiments, as shown, enclosing the cavity 122 may include connecting the lid 150 to the base 110 such that the absorbent member 180 is maintained in a compressed state between the base 110 and the lid 150.

[0048] Certain aspects of the present invention can be further understood with reference to the following examples.

[0049] Example 1. A contact lens package comprising: A contact lens package comprising a cavity for containing a contact lens, a packaging solution, and an absorbent member, the absorbent member being configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, the absorbent member being in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

[0050] Example 2. The contact lens packaging of example 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state.

[0051] Example 3. A contact lens packaging according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state.

[0052] Example 4. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from a compressed state to an expanded state.

[0053] Example 5. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 1-4, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state.

[0054] Example 6. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state.

[0055] Example 7. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 1-6, wherein the absorbent member is biased toward the expanded state.

[0056] Example 8. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the absorbent member is positioned adjacent to the contact lens.

[0057] Example 9. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

[0058] Example 10. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 1-9, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein a cavity is formed between the base and the lid.

[0059] Example 11. The contact lens packaging of Example 10, wherein the base and lid collectively enclose a cavity.

[0060] Example 12. The contact lens packaging of Example 10 or Example 11, wherein the base and lid collectively define a cavity.

[0061] Example 13. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10-12, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid is sealed to the base along the periphery of the cavity, and when the package is in an opened state, the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken.

[0062] Example 14. A contact lens packaging as described in Example 13, wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the cavity.

[0063] Example 15. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10-14, wherein the lid extends over and covers the contact lens when the package is in an unopened state, and wherein the lid does not cover the contact lens when the package is in an opened state.

[0064] Example 16. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 15, wherein the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid does not cover the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state.

[0065] Example 17. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 15, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member.

[0066] Example 18. A contact lens package according to any one of Examples 10 to 17, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid when the package is in an unopened state.

[0067] Example 19. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 18, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user when the package is in an open state.

[0068] Example 20. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 19, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base when the package is in an unopened state.

[0069] Example 21. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 20, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the base.

[0070] Example 22. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 21, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the lid.

[0071] Example 23. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 22, wherein the base comprises a lens support that supports the contact lens within the cavity.

[0072] Example 24. The contact lens packaging of example 23, wherein the lens support comprises an inner surface having a convex shape, the inner surface of the lens support engaging the concave surface of the contact lens.

[0073] Example 25. The contact lens packaging of example 24, wherein the inner surface of the lens support defines a portion of the cavity.

[0074] Example 26. The contact lens packaging of Example 24 or Example 25, wherein the lens support further comprises an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape.

[0075] Example 27. A contact lens package as described in Example 26, wherein the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive the convex portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating nesting of multiple packages.

[0076] Example 28. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 23 to 27, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the lens support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid does not cover the lens support.

[0077] Example 29. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 23 to 28, wherein the base further comprises an absorbent member support that supports the absorbent member within the cavity.

[0078] Example 30. The contact lens packaging of example 29, wherein the absorbent member support comprises an inner surface having a planar shape.

[0079] Example 31. The contact lens packaging of example 30, wherein the inner surface of the absorbent member support defines a portion of the cavity.

[0080] Example 32. The contact lens packaging of Example 30 or Example 31, wherein the absorbent member support further comprises an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape.

[0081] Example 33. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 30 to 32, wherein the absorbent member is connected to an absorbent member support.

[0082] Example 34. A contact lens package according to any one of Examples 30 to 33, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member support.

[0083] Example 35. A contact lens package described in any one of Examples 30 to 33, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member support.

[0084] Example 36. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 30 to 35, wherein the absorbent member support is positioned adjacent to the lens support.

[0085] Example 37. A contact lens packaging described in any one of Examples 30 to 36, wherein the lens support extends above the absorbent member support and is configured to facilitate drainage of packaging solution toward the absorbent member when the package is in an open state.

[0086] Example 38. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 37, wherein the base is substantially rigid and the lid is flexible.

[0087] Example 39. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 10 to 37, wherein the base is flexible and the lid is flexible.

[0088] Example 40. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 10-39, wherein the lid comprises a foil layer.

[0089] Example 41. A contact lens package comprising: With the base, A contact lens package comprising: a lid connected to a base, the base and the lid collectively defining a cavity for containing a contact lens, a packaging solution, and an absorbent member, the absorbent member being configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, the absorbent member being in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

[0090] Example 42. A contact lens packaging according to Example 41, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state.

[0091] Example 43. A contact lens packaging according to Example 41 or Example 42, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from a compressed state to an expanded state.

[0092] Example 44. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 43, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from a compressed state to an expanded state.

[0093] Example 45. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 44, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state.

[0094] Example 46. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 45, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb a majority of the packaging solution when the package transitions from an unopened state to an opened state.

[0095] Example 47. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 46, wherein the absorbent member is biased towards the expanded state.

[0096] Example 48. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 47, wherein the absorbent member is positioned adjacent to the contact lens.

[0097] Example 49. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 41 to 48, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

[0098] Example 50. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 49, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid is sealed to the base along the periphery of the cavity, and when the package is in an opened state, the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken.

[0099] Example 51. The contact lens packaging of example 50, wherein the lid is sealed to the base along the entire perimeter of the cavity.

[0100] Example 52. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 51, wherein the lid extends over and covers the contact lens when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid does not cover the contact lens when the package is in an opened state.

[0101] Example 53. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 52, wherein the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid does not cover the absorbent member when the package is in an opened state.

[0102] Example 54. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 52, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member.

[0103] Example 55. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 54, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid when the package is in an unopened state.

[0104] Example 56. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 55, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user when the package is in an open state.

[0105] Example 57. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 56, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base when the package is in an unopened state.

[0106] Example 58. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 57, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the base.

[0107] Example 59. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 41 to 58, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the lid.

[0108] Example 60. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 59, wherein the base comprises a lens support that supports the contact lens within the cavity.

[0109] Example 61. The contact lens packaging of example 60, wherein the lens support has an inner surface having a convex shape, and the inner surface of the lens support engages the concave surface of the contact lens.

[0110] Example 62. The contact lens packaging of example 61, wherein the inner surface of the lens support defines a portion of the cavity.

[0111] Example 63. The contact lens packaging of Example 61 or Example 62, wherein the lens support further comprises an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape.

[0112] Example 64. A contact lens packaging as described in Example 63, wherein the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive the convex portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating nesting of multiple packages.

[0113] Example 65. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 60 to 64, wherein the lid extends over and covers the lens support when the package is in an unopened state, and the lid does not cover the lens support when the package is in an opened state.

[0114] Example 66. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 60 to 65, wherein the base further comprises an absorbent member support that supports the absorbent member within the cavity.

[0115] Example 67. The contact lens packaging of example 66, wherein the absorbent member support has an inner surface having a planar shape.

[0116] Example 68. The contact lens packaging of example 67, wherein the inner surface of the absorbent member support defines a portion of the cavity.

[0117] Example 69. A contact lens packaging according to Example 67 or Example 68, wherein the absorbent member support further comprises an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape.

[0118] Example 70. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 66 to 69, wherein the absorbent member is connected to an absorbent member support.

[0119] Example 71. A contact lens package according to any one of Examples 66 to 70, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid does not cover the absorbent member support.

[0120] Example 72. A contact lens package described in any one of Examples 66 to 70, wherein when the package is in an unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and when the package is in an opened state, the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member support.

[0121] Example 73. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 66 to 72, wherein the absorbent member support is positioned adjacent to the lens support.

[0122] Example 74. A contact lens package described in any one of Examples 66 to 73, wherein the lens support extends above the absorbent member support and is configured to facilitate drainage of packaging solution toward the absorbent member when the package is in an open state.

[0123] Example 75. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 74, wherein the base is substantially rigid and the lid is flexible.

[0124] Example 76. A contact lens packaging according to any one of Examples 41 to 74, wherein the base is flexible and the lid is flexible.

[0125] Example 77. The contact lens packaging of any one of Examples 41-76, wherein the lid comprises a foil layer.

[0126] Example 78. A method for packaging contact lenses, comprising: placing the contact lens, packaging solution, and absorbent member within the cavity of the package; transitioning the absorbent member from an expanded state to a compressed state; and enclosing the cavity such that the absorbent member is maintained in a compressed state when the package is in an unopened condition.

[0127] Example 79. The method of Example 78, wherein transitioning the absorbent member from the expanded state to the compressed state comprises expelling at least a portion of the packaging solution from the absorbent member.

[0128] Example 80 The method of example 78 or example 79, further comprising absorbing at least a portion of the packaging solution into the absorbent member before placing the absorbent member in the cavity.

[0129] Example 81 The method of example 78 or example 79, further comprising allowing the absorbent member to absorb a majority of the packaging solution before placing the absorbent member within the cavity.

[0130] Example 82 The method of example 78 or example 79, further comprising absorbing the entire packaging solution into the absorbent member before placing the absorbent member in the cavity.

[0131] Example 83. The method of any one of Examples 78-82, wherein transitioning the absorbent member from an expanded state to a compressed state comprises causing at least a portion of the packaging solution to flow within the cavity toward the contact lens.

[0132] Example 84. The method of any one of Examples 78-82, wherein transitioning the absorbent member from an expanded state to a compressed state comprises causing at least a portion of the packaging solution to flow from the absorbent member toward the contact lens within the cavity.

[0133] Example 85. The method of any one of Examples 78-84, wherein the absorbent member is biased to an expanded state.

[0134] Example 86 The method of any one of Examples 78-85, wherein the absorbent member is positioned adjacent to the contact lens.

[0135] Example 87. The method of any one of Examples 78-86, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

[0136] Example 88. The method of any one of Examples 78-87, wherein the package comprises a base and a lid, a cavity is formed between the base and the lid, and enclosing the cavity comprises connecting the lid to the base such that the absorbent member is maintained in a compressed state between the base and the lid.

[0137] Example 89. A method for opening a contact lens, comprising: holding a package, the package including a cavity for containing the contact lens, the packaging solution, and the absorbent member; at least partially opening the cavity to expose the contact lens; and allowing the absorbent member to transition from a compressed state to an expanded state such that the absorbent member absorbs at least a portion of the packaging solution.

[0138] Example 90 The method of example 89, wherein the absorbent member absorbs a majority of the packaging solution.

[0139] Example 91. The method of example 89 or example 90, wherein the absorbent member is biased to an expanded state.

[0140] Example 92 The method of any one of Examples 89-91, wherein the absorbent member is positioned adjacent to the contact lens.

[0141] Example 93 The method of any one of Examples 89-92, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

[0142] Example 94. The method of any one of Examples 89 to 93, wherein the package comprises a base and a lid, a cavity is formed between the base and the lid, and the absorbent member is maintained in a compressed state between the base and the lid when the package is in an unopened state.

[0143] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many of the specific details are not required to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.

[0144] The "Summary" and "Abstract" sections may set forth one or more, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the invention as contemplated by the inventors, and are therefore not intended to limit the invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0145] The foregoing description of specific embodiments makes the general nature of the present invention fully apparent, and others, by applying the knowledge of those skilled in the art, may readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments to various uses without undue experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Such adaptations and modifications are therefore intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, and therefore should be interpreted by those skilled in the art in the light of the teaching and guidance.

[0146] The packaging of the present invention can be manufactured using known materials and processes. The packaging materials can be virgin, recycled, or a combination thereof. The volume within the packaging cavity can vary depending on the design selected.

[0147] Not all features described herein need to be incorporated into every package; those skilled in the art can use the teachings herein to combine these features to provide a wide variety of improved contact lens packages. In summary, the contact lens packages of the present invention incorporate several novel features that can be combined in a wide variety of combinations as described herein to provide desired improved packages. The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

[0148] [Embodiment] (1) Contact lens packaging, 1. A contact lens package comprising: a cavity for containing a contact lens, a packaging solution, and an absorbent member, the absorbent member being configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, the absorbent member being in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state. (2) A contact lens package as described in embodiment 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. (3) A contact lens package as described in embodiment 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion or a majority of the packaging solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state. (4) A contact lens package as described in embodiment 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion or most of the packaging solution when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state. (5) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is biased toward the expanded state.

[0149] (6) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is positioned adjacent to the contact lens. (7) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge. (8) The contact lens packaging of embodiment 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the cavity being formed between the base and the lid. (9) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid is sealed to the base along the periphery of the cavity, and when the package is in the opened state, the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken. (10) A contact lens package according to claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the contact lens and / or the absorbent member, and when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover the contact lens and / or the absorbent member.

[0150] (11) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member when the package is in the unopened state, and the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member when the package is in the opened state. (12) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that a convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid when the package is in the unopened state. (13) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to the user when the package is in an open state. (14) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that the concave surface of the contact lens faces the base when the package is in the unopened state. (15) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the base.

[0151] (16) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the absorbent member being connected to the lid. (17) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the base comprising a lens support for supporting the contact lens within the cavity. (18) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the surface of the lens support engaging the concave surface of the contact lens. (19) The contact lens packaging of embodiment 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the lens support having an inner surface having a convex shape, the inner surface of the lens support defining a portion of the cavity. (20) A contact lens package according to claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the lens support having an inner surface having a convex shape, and the lens support further comprising an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape.

[0152] (21) The contact lens package of claim 20, wherein the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive a convex portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating nesting of multiple packages. (22) The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, wherein the lid extends over and covers the lens support when the package is in the unopened state, and the lid does not cover the lens support when the package is in the opened state. (23) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the base further comprising an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within the cavity. (24) A contact lens package as described in embodiment 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, wherein the base further comprises an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within the cavity, and the absorbent member support has an inner surface having a planar shape. (25) The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the absorbent member support further comprises an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar shape.

[0153] (26) The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the absorbent member support. (27) A contact lens package as described in embodiment 24, wherein when the package is in the unopened state, the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support, and when the package is in the opened state, the lid does not cover or only partially covers the absorbent member support. (28) The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the absorbent member support is positioned adjacent to the lens support. (29) A contact lens package as described in embodiment 24, wherein the lens support extends above the absorbent member support and is configured to facilitate drainage of the packaging solution toward the absorbent member when the package is in an open state. (30) The contact lens packaging of embodiment 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the base is rigid or flexible and the lid is flexible.

[0154] (31) The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the lid comprising a foil layer.

Claims

1. 1. A contact lens package comprising:

1. A contact lens package comprising: a cavity for containing a contact lens, a packaging solution, and an absorbent member, the absorbent member being configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state, the absorbent member being in the compressed state when the package is in an unopened state.

2. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to transition from the compressed state to the expanded state when the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state.

3. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion or a majority of the packing solution when the absorbent member transitions from the compressed state to the expanded state.

4. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member is configured to absorb at least a portion or a majority of the packaging solution as the package transitions from the unopened state to the opened state.

5. The contact lens packaging of claim 1 , wherein the absorbent member is biased toward the expanded state.

6. The contact lens packaging of claim 1 , wherein the absorbent member is positioned adjacent to the contact lens.

7. The contact lens packaging of claim 1 , wherein the absorbent member comprises a sponge.

8. The contact lens packaging of claim 1 , further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the cavity being formed between the base and the lid.

9. 2. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the lid is sealed to the base along a periphery of the cavity when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the seal between the lid and the base is at least partially broken when the package is in the opened state.

10. 2. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the lid extends over and covers the contact lens and / or the absorbent member when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the lid does not cover the contact lens and / or the absorbent member when the package is in the opened state.

11. 10. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the lid extends at least partially over the absorbent member when the package is in the opened state.

12. 10. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that a convex surface of the contact lens faces the lid when the package is in the unopened state.

13. 10. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that a convex surface of the contact lens is exposed and accessible to a user when the package is in an open state.

14. 10. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, wherein the contact lens is positioned within the cavity such that a concave surface of the contact lens faces the base when the package is in the unopened state.

15. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the absorbent member being connected to the base.

16. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the absorbent member being connected to the lid.

17. The contact lens packaging of claim 1 , further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the base comprising a lens support that supports the contact lens within the cavity.

18. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the surface of the lens support engaging the concave surface of the contact lens.

19. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the lens support having an inner surface with a convex shape, the inner surface of the lens support defining a portion of the cavity.

20. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the lens support having an inner surface having a convex shape, and the lens support further comprising an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the lens support and having a concave shape.

21. 21. The contact lens packaging of claim 20, wherein the concave shape of the outer surface of the lens support is configured to receive a convex portion of an adjacent package therein, thereby facilitating nesting of multiple packages.

22. 10. The contact lens package of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, wherein the lid extends over and covers the lens support when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the lid does not cover the lens support when the package is in the opened state.

23. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the base further comprising an absorbent member support for supporting an absorbent member within the cavity.

24. 2. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base, a lid connected to the base, and a lens support, the base further comprising an absorbent member support that supports an absorbent member within the cavity, the absorbent member support having an inner surface having a planar shape.

25. 25. The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the absorbent member support further comprises an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface of the absorbent member support and having a planar configuration.

26. 25. The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the absorbent member is connected to the absorbent member support.

27. 25. The contact lens package of claim 24, wherein the lid extends over and covers the absorbent member support when the package is in the unopened state, and wherein the lid does not cover or only partially covers the absorbent member support when the package is in the opened state.

28. 25. The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the absorbent member support is positioned adjacent to the lens support.

29. 25. The contact lens packaging of claim 24, wherein the lens support extends above the absorbent member support and is configured to facilitate drainage of the packaging solution toward the absorbent member when the package is in an open state.

30. 10. The contact lens packaging of claim 1, further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the base being rigid or flexible and the lid being flexible.

31. The contact lens packaging of claim 1 , further comprising a base and a lid connected to the base, the lid comprising a foil layer.

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