Electrochemical disinfection and protein removal method and apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a method and device for electrochemical sterilization and protein removal, which comprises: placing a sodium chloride solution in a care bottle, at least a first electrode and a second electrode being installed in the care bottle, the pH value of the sodium chloride solution being in the range of 8 to 12; placing a contact lens in the sodium chloride solution in the care bottle; and applying power to the first and second electrodes, one of which is an anode and the other is a cathode, and the anode is connected to the Cl in the sodium chloride solution. - is electrolyzed to Cl2, which dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO. The pH value of the solution in the care bottle is controlled to be in the range of 8 to 12, and the ClO in the solution is - The mass concentration of ClO was controlled to 0.1% to 0.4%. - The present invention can sterilize contact lenses and decompose denatured proteins on the contact lenses, and the decomposed denatured proteins migrate toward the electrode opposite to their own charge under the action of an electric field. The present invention has good sterilization and protein removal effects, effectively decomposes proteins, and achieves immediate sterilization, reaching the sterilization standard within 10 minutes, without damaging the contact lenses themselves, and has excellent stability and low toxicity and side effects.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of contact lens disinfection and protein removal, and in particular to electrochemical disinfection and protein removal methods and devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, manual scrubbing is commonly used to sterilize contact lenses, remove proteins, and perform other cleaning procedures, but this method typically takes 2 to 4 hours or more, which is time-consuming and laborious. Furthermore, manual scrubbing can cause a number of problems, such as insufficient scrubbing power resulting in insufficient removal of deposited proteins, damage to the contact lens caused by scrubbing too hard, deformation or scratches on the contact lens caused by uneven scrubbing, scratches on the contact lens or bacterial infections caused by insufficient hand hygiene, and skin damage caused by contact with the care solution.

[0003]

[0003] Current care solutions or some common sterilization and protein removal devices lack special protective measures, which makes contact lenses prone to discoloration or partial discoloration, resulting in difficulty in distinguishing between the left and right eyes and affecting the aesthetic appearance when worn, thereby causing inconvenience to users and affecting the normal use of contact lenses.

[0004] Although the applicant's previous patents related to contact lens care, such as patent application numbers 202011505217X, 2020107601353, and 2020116347313, have resolved contact lens care issues to some extent, some shortcomings still remain, and there is still room for significant improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of contact lens cleaning.

[0004] The care solution also corrodes the coating of contact lenses, which not only affects the lifespan of the contact lenses, but can also cause eye damage if the corroded coating gets into the eyes. At the same time, if you forget to rinse your contact lenses after using the care solution and then put them back on, it can also cause eye damage. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] To solve at least one of the technical problems present in the prior art, the present invention provides an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method and device. The application technology of using an electrochemical method to generate certain oxidizing substances such as hypochlorite ions from a sodium chloride solution has excellent sterilization and protein removal effects, effectively decomposing proteins and enabling instant sterilization, achieving sterilization standards in 10 minutes. Furthermore, by properly controlling the relevant parameters, the sterilization and protein removal process does not damage the contact lenses themselves, has excellent stability, and is low in toxicity and side effects. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device is used for automatic cleaning, eliminating the need for manual scrubbing and contact with care solutions, reducing injury to the human body. The sterilization and protein removal time is short. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Meanwhile, the present invention provides an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method, specifically, Step S1: injecting a sodium chloride solution into a care bottle, at least a first electrode and a second electrode are installed in the care bottle, the first electrode and the second electrode are both chlorine generating electrodes, the pH value of the sodium chloride solution is in the range of 8 to 12, and the contact lens is placed in the sodium chloride solution in the care bottle; Power is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode, one of the first electrode and the second electrode becomes an anode and the other becomes a cathode, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side, and a reduction reaction occurs on the cathode side, and H2O in the sodium chloride solution is electrolyzed at the cathode to produce H2 and OH.- and Cl in sodium chloride solution at the anode. - to Cl2, which dissolves in solution to produce HCl and HClO; The pH value of the solution in the care bottle was controlled within the range of 8 to 12, and the ClO - The mass concentration of the ClO is controlled to 0.1% to 0.4%. - and step S3, in which the contact lens is sterilized and the denatured proteins and some of the native proteins on the contact lens are decomposed, and an electric field force is formed between the cathode and the anode, and the decomposed denatured proteins and some of the native proteins move toward the electrode opposite to their self-charged charges due to the action of the electric field force, and the undecomposed native proteins also move toward the electrode opposite to their self-charged charges due to the action of the electric field force, thereby achieving sterilization of the contact lens and protein removal.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method described in this patent, the NaCl solution is physiological saline with a mass concentration of 0.9%, the starting voltage when powered on is 1.1 V or more, and the stable voltage range during stable operation after powering on is 3.5 to 6.5 V; In step S3, the power is turned on and the device is allowed to react for 10 to 60 minutes, after which the power is turned off, and the contact lens care is completed.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method described in this patent, the height of the bottom of the first electrode and the second electrode is both higher than the height of the bottom of the care bottle, the contact lens is placed horizontally in the NaCl solution in the care bottle, the height of the top of the contact lens is lower than the height of the bottom of the probe, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more; or The contact lens is placed vertically in the NaCl solution in the care bottle, with the distance between the contact lens and the anode being 4 mm or more, and the distance between the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution being 4 mm or more.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method described in this patent, in steps S2 and S3, after power is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode are switched between cathode and anode at regular time intervals.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method described in this patent, the first and second electrodes are switched between cathode and anode every 0.5 to 2 minutes.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method described in this patent, the NaCl solution further contains an alkaline substance, which includes one or more of NaOH, Na2CO3, and NaHCO3, and the pH value of the sodium chloride solution in step S1 is adjusted to a range of 8 to 12.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal method described in this patent, After the care in step S3 is completed, the method further includes step S4 of rinsing the contact lens with sterile saline or a multi-functional care solution that can be applied to the eye. After rinsing, a lubricating liquid is applied to the concave surface of the contact lens, and the contact lens is then worn and used.

[0013] On the other hand, the present patent provides an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device including a care bottle and a base, The care bin includes a storage tank, a sinking tank, a first electrode, and a second electrode, the sinking tank communicates with the storage tank, and the sinking tank is located below the storage tank, the first electrode and the second electrode are both installed in the storage tank, and the base can supply electrical energy to the first electrode and the second electrode; When power is applied to the first and second electrodes, the electrical properties of the first and second electrodes are opposite, with one electrode acting as a cathode and the other as an anode. In a working environment where a sodium chloride solution with a pH value of over 8 is added to the care bottle, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side and a reduction reaction occurs on the cathode side. The cathode electrolyzes the H2O in the sodium chloride solution to produce H2 and OH.- and the anode is connected to Cl in a sodium chloride solution. - is electrolyzed to Cl2, which dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO, - can sterilize contact lenses and decompose denatured proteins and some native proteins on the contact lenses, and the decomposed denatured proteins and some native proteins migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charged charges due to the action of the electric field force formed between the anode and cathode, and the undecomposed native proteins also migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charged charges due to the action of the electric field force, thereby achieving sterilization of the contact lenses and protein removal.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal device described in this patent, the first electrode and the second electrode are both chlorine generating electrodes, and when the device is in an operating state, ClO - The mass concentration of is 0.1% to 0.4%.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device described in this patent, the first electrode and the second electrode are both chlorine generating electrodes; The NaCl solution is a physiological saline solution with a mass concentration of 0.9%, the starting voltage when powering on the first electrode and the second electrode is 1.1 V or more, the stable voltage range during stable operation after powering on is 3.5 to 6.5 V, and the working time after powering on is 10 to 60 minutes.

[0016] A preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device described in this patent further includes a horizontal lens clip, which can restrict the contact lens to be placed horizontally in the settling tank, thereby preventing the contact lens from being too close to the electrode and oxidizing and fading, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution is 4 mm or more.

[0017] A preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device described in this patent further includes a vertical lens clip, which can restrict the contact lens to be placed vertically in the care bin, with the entire contact lens positioned at a perpendicular angle to the first and second electrodes, the distance between the contact lens and the anode in the care bin being 4 mm or more, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution being 4 mm or more.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device described in this patent, the first and second electrodes are symmetrically disposed within the containment vessel, and both the first and second electrodes are adjacent to the side wall of the containment vessel.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal device described in this patent, the horizontal lens clip includes a mounting base, a support member, and a position limiting member, the support member is installed vertically on the mounting base, the position limiting member has a position limiting hole, when in use, the longitudinal direction of the position limiting hole coincides with the horizontal direction, there are at least two position limiting members, and the contact lens is position-limited within the position limiting hole.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal device described in this patent, the vertical lens clip includes a fixing seat and at least two receiving members, the receiving members are installed vertically on the fixing seat, and the receiving members have receiving holes. When in use, the longitudinal direction of the receiving holes is aligned with the vertical direction, there are at least two receiving members, and the contact lens is positioned within the receiving holes.

[0021] A preferred embodiment of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device described in this patent further includes a control system, in which an electrode switching module is installed, and the electrode switching module can switch the first electrode and the second electrode between a cathode and an anode through circuit control. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution disclosed in this patent has at least one or more of the following beneficial effects:

[0023] This invention is an applied technology that uses electrochemistry to generate certain oxidizing substances, such as hypochlorite ions, from sodium chloride solution. This technology has excellent sterilization and protein removal effects, effectively decomposing proteins and enabling instant sterilization, achieving sterilization standards in 10 minutes. Furthermore, by properly controlling the relevant parameters, the sterilization and protein removal process does not damage the contact lenses themselves; improper control can result in damage to the contact lenses, such as discoloration. It has excellent stability and low toxicity and side effects. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device performs automatic cleaning, eliminating the need for manual scrubbing and contact with the care solution, thereby reducing injury to the human body. The time required for sterilization and protein removal of contact lenses is short, requiring only 10 to 60 minutes. Conventional care solutions require at least 2 to 4 hours, and the manual scrubbing required is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0024] At least the anode of the electrode is a chlorine generating electrode. In a sodium chloride solution, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side, precipitating chlorine gas from chloride ions in the solution. The chlorine generating electrode has excellent corrosion resistance, chlorine resistance, acid resistance, stability, and oxidation resistance, and has a long service life. It can prevent the anode itself from reacting or the generation of other products from contaminating the electrolyte or cathode products. It also promotes the discharge of bubbles between and on the electrode surfaces, effectively reducing the voltage in the electrolytic cell. It is easy to manufacture and has a highly refined shape. Common metal electrodes are mainly ruthenium, iridium, and platinum-based. Other inert electrodes (such as graphite and graphene) can also be used as chlorine generating electrodes as long as they maintain their dimensional stability. The electrode may be a coated electrode. Preferably, the electrode substrate is titanium or a titanium alloy, and the electrode substrate is coated with a metal coating such as ruthenium-based, iridium-based, or platinum-based. Preferably, the cathode and anode are symmetrically disposed on both sides of the care chamber, and both the cathode and anode are disposed near the side walls of the care chamber to achieve better protein removal effect.

[0025] Commercially available contact lens care solutions are prone to damage and can only maintain a sterilization rate of approximately 90%. The present invention achieves instant sterilization, not only with excellent sterilization effectiveness but also with a fast sterilization rate, achieving a 99% bacterial kill rate and a 99% fungal kill rate in 3 minutes. By adjusting related parameters, the bacterial and fungal kill rate can be further improved, killing Bacillus subtilis in 10 minutes, achieving the sterilization standard. Furthermore, commercially available contact lens care solutions cannot be directly contacted with the eyes, and if a user forgets to rinse contact lenses after care and wears them, residual solution on the lenses may cause eye damage. Contact lenses cleaned with the present invention will not harm the eyes, even if they are worn without rinsing. At the same time, AB solution contains potassium bromide, which generates liquefied bromine during use. This liquefied bromine corrodes the contact lens coating, causing it to peel. This peeling not only affects the service life of contact lenses, but also causes problems such as inflammation if the peeled coating gets into the eye. Furthermore, the bromine remains on the contact lenses, affecting their safety.

[0026] When power is applied to the first and second electrodes of this patent, the sodium chloride solution generates multiple oxidizing substances and radicals, especially hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions, which can destroy protein peptide chains. In this patent, the mass concentration of hypochlorite ions is preferably 0.1%, and the concentration of hypochlorite ions in solution A of the AB solution is 0.375%. Although AB solution can achieve relatively good bactericidal and protein removal effects, contact lenses should not be immersed in AB solution for long periods of time, otherwise AB solution may cause discoloration, corrosion, and other damage to the contact lenses. This patent also uses electrophoresis technology, so the preferred concentration of hypochlorite ions, 0.1%, is less than one-third the concentration of AB solution, yet achieves very good bactericidal and protein removal effects, is safer to use, and easier to operate. By properly controlling the relevant parameters, contact lens discoloration can be reduced and coating damage and corrosion can be avoided.

[0027] In this patent, the mass concentration of hypochlorite ions is controlled to 0.1% to 0.4%. The hypochlorite ion concentration range is 0.01% to 0.1%. A hypochlorite ion-containing solution in the 0.01% to 0.1% concentration range can be directly applied to the eyes and contacted with mucous membranes, and has good bactericidal effects, but relatively weak protein removal effects. When the hypochlorite ion concentration range is 0.4% to 1%, the bactericidal and protein removal effects are relatively good, but the high concentration of hypochlorite ions means that they can only remain stable in a strong alkaline environment and will generally damage non-antioxidant materials. Therefore, a hypochlorite ion concentration of 0.1% to 0.4% is the preferred choice overall.

[0028] Through extensive research and long-term studies, researchers have found a preferred range for the concentration of hypochlorite ions, and have sought to maintain the concentration of hypochlorite ions within an optimal range based on certain experimental conditions, including an optimal mass concentration of sodium chloride solution of 0.9%, a starting voltage of 1.1 V or higher when powering on the first and second electrodes, a stable voltage range of 3.5 to 6.5 V during stable operation after powering on, when the contact lens is placed horizontally in the care bottle, the height of the top of the contact lens is lower than the height of the bottom of the probe, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more, or when the contact lens is placed vertically in the care bottle, the distance between the contact lens and the anode is 4 mm or more, and the distance between the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more, and the reaction time after powering on is 10 to 60 minutes.

[0029] Under the action of an electric field, the sodium chloride solution of this patent generates hydroxyl radicals (OH·), oxygen radicals (O·), chlorine radicals (Cl·), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ozone (O3), and hypochlorite ions (ClO - ), hypochlorous acid (HClO), chlorine gas (Cl2), hydrogen ions (H +) and other substances, and when combined with electrophoresis under specific conditions, it has excellent protein removal and sterilization effects, comparable to those of AB solution. Furthermore, compared to AB solution, the concentration of hypochlorite ions produced by the reaction is less than one-third of that of AB solution, making it safer and easier to use.

[0030] When power is applied to the first and second electrodes of this patent, one of the first and second electrodes becomes an anode and the other becomes a cathode, and an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side, and a reduction reaction occurs on the cathode side, and the cathode electrolyzes H2O in the sodium chloride solution to produce H2 and OH - The anode generates Cl in a sodium chloride solution. - is electrolyzed to Cl2, which dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO, - can sterilize contact lenses while also decomposing denatured proteins and some native proteins on contact lenses. An electric field is formed between the cathode and anode, and the decomposed denatured proteins and some native proteins migrate toward the electrode opposite their self-charge due to the action of this electric field force. Undecomposed native proteins also migrate toward the electrode opposite their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force, thereby achieving sterilization of contact lenses and protein removal. In an alkaline environment, the amount of HClO is reduced, preventing lens discoloration caused by HClO. Most hypochlorite ions exist in the form of NaClO, which allows for relatively gentle sterilization and protein removal by NaClO, without bleaching properties, thus preventing lens discoloration. ClO in NaClO - The ions exert bactericidal and proteolytic effects, and in combination with electrophoresis, exert a protein removal effect.

[0031] In the present invention, an electrode switching module is installed, and after power is applied to the first and second electrodes, the electrode switching module switches the first and second electrodes between cathode and anode at regular intervals through circuit control, thereby preventing a single ion or a single type of ion from concentrating near the cathode and anode, resulting in uneven concentrations, and in particular preventing adverse effects such as contact lens discoloration caused by the concentration of HClO. Specifically, when power is applied to the first and second electrodes, H2O in the sodium chloride solution is electrolyzed on the cathode side to produce H2 and OH. - is generated, e+2H2O=H2 and OH - , O.H. - The pH of the solution near the cathode exceeds 7 due to the accumulation of Cl in the sodium chloride solution near the anode. - is electrolyzed to Cl2, which dissolves in water to produce HCl and HClO. HCl and HClO become concentrated, and the pH of the solution on the anode side is less than 7. By switching the first and second electrodes between the cathode and anode, the goal of neutralizing HCl is achieved, and more of it is converted into NaClO, reducing its impact on contact lens color. At the same time, switching the electrodes allows other ions and molecules generated on the cathode and anode sides to mix evenly, contributing to uniform sterilization and protein removal on contact lenses.

[0032] Compared with the traditional method of scrubbing contact lenses on the market, the use of this patented sterilization protein removal technology allows the electric field force of electrophoretic dissociation to act only on charged particles such as proteins, bacteria, and fungi on the contact lens, thereby more accurately separating denatured proteins from the lens without damaging the contact lens itself. This also avoids problems that occur when scrubbing contact lenses by hand, such as insufficient scrubbing force causing insufficient removal of deposited proteins, excessive scrubbing force causing damage to the contact lens, uneven scrubbing force causing deformation or scratches on the contact lens, and insufficient finger cleanliness causing scratches on the contact lens or bacterial infection.

[0033] The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal technology of the present invention can sterilize bacteria and other organisms, and the sterilization mechanism is mainly as follows: 1. Electrolysis generates hypochlorous acid, which blocks the link in bacterial protein synthesis. Electrolysis of sodium chloride solution produces hypochlorous acid, a powerful oxidizing agent. The bactericidal principle of hypochlorous acid is to oxidize and denature proteins within microorganisms, preventing them from carrying out normal replication processes and causing them to lose their viability. The bactericidal effect of hypochlorous acid is 80 times greater than that of hypochlorite ions, and it can generate hydroxyl radicals that act on different bacteria. Even with long-term use, bacteria do not develop resistance to electrolyzed saline, and there are no toxic side effects on the cornea. 2. Electrical doping: Electrical doping is the process of doping substances from a solution into the cell using an electric field. Based on the effects of an external electric field on bacterial growth, activity, metabolism, morphology, and movement, electrolysis of a solution containing chloride ions produces hydroxyl radicals (OH·), oxygen radicals (O·), chlorine radicals (Cl·), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ozone (O3), and hypochlorite ions (ClO - ), hypochlorous acid (HClO), chlorine gas (Cl2), hydrogen ions (H + ), a new sterilization and protein removal technology can be realized. Applying an electric current of appropriate intensity can, on the one hand, inhibit cellular gene expression, inhibit ATP synthase activity, reduce intracellular protein content, affect intracellular free radical reactions and biopolymer synthesis, and suppress cell proliferation by neutralizing the negative charge on the cell surface, ultimately leading to apoptosis, aging, and death. On the other hand, it can increase the permeability of microbial cells, causing electrical doping, which can release hydroxyl radicals (OH·), oxygen radicals (O·), chlorine radicals (Cl·), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ozone (O3), and hypochlorite ions (ClO - ), hypochlorous acid (HClO), chlorine gas (Cl2), hydrogen ions (H +) into microbial cells, causing cytotoxicity and disrupting the structure and function of the cells, thereby achieving the effects of inactivation, sterilization and disinfection. 3. Microelectrolysis generates active substances that destroy the chain structure of cellular organic matter. When the current density is controlled under the action of a physical field, excited electrons are transferred from the anode to the cathode through the water medium, and during this transfer process, radicals such as ClO - , Cl - , O.H. - These active substances can react with all molecules in living cells, such as sugars, phospholipids, and organic acids, and have a fast reaction rate, destroying the cell membrane and penetrating into the cell membrane to destroy the chain structure of organic matter, causing oxidation of the RNA and DNA of bacterial cells, inactivating or killing them. At the same time, bacteria generally have a negative charge in water, move to the anode and gather, and can be directly killed by the discharge of bacteria. 4. Microcurrents are used to break bacterial cell walls and rapidly oxidize bacterial RNA or DNA. When an electric current acts directly on the cell wall, it can cause direct mechanical damage to bacteria in solution and enhance the oxidative effect on the RNA or DNA of bacteria and viruses. 5. Microcurrent destroys bacterial masses and reduces bacterial resistance. The effect of electric current changes the relative dispersion environment of bacteria in water, significantly reducing the stability of the mixture. If bacteria and viruses are considered to be a colloidal system consisting of water, proteins, and nucleic acids, microcurrents reduce the stability of bacteria, and as a result, reduce their resistance to hypochlorous acid. 6. Activating water with electrons increases the contact area between hypochlorous acid and bacteria. The properties of water are determined by changes in the electron structure of water molecules, mainly changes in the distribution, shape, and direction of the electron cloud. Research has demonstrated that the electron cloud can change under the influence of the external environment. Under the action of low voltage and microcurrent, the four pairs of electrons in water molecules rise from low orbit to high orbit, and the electron energy level rises. This causes the activated water molecules to lose potential energy, their potential decreases, and the potential difference between the water molecules and the interface (microorganism surface) decreases. This change can affect the aggregation state of bacterial and viral particles. In addition, viridans streptococcus, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and staphylococcus, which are commonly found on contact lenses, are all hydrophilic bacteria. After being exposed to microcurrent, hypochlorous acid can easily come into contact with the bacteria, improving sterilization efficiency.

[0034] Therefore, the method for protein removal and sterilization by electrophoretic dissociation described in the present invention has the multiple effects of protein removal and sterilization.

[0035] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] In order to more clearly describe the technical solutions of the present invention, the following briefly introduces drawings used in describing the embodiments or prior art. The drawings shown below are only some embodiments of the present invention, and it is obvious that those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative efforts. [Figure 1] 1 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal device described in this patent. [Figure 2] 1 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal device described in this patent. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the care bottle described in this patent. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional three-dimensional structure of the care bottle described in this patent. [Figure 5]1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the horizontal lens clip and the cover described in this patent. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the horizontal lens clip and the cover described in this patent. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the vertical lens clip and the cover described in this patent. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the vertical lens clip and the cover described in this patent. [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic diagram of the circuit structure of the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device described in this patent. [Figure 10] 1 is a SEM electron micrograph of a contact lens that has not been used and cared for using the method of the present patent. [Figure 11] This is an SEM electron microscope photograph of a contact lens that had been treated with AB solution for six months. [Figure 12] This is an SEM electron microscope photograph of another contact lens that had been treated with AB solution for six months. [Figure 13] This is an SEM electron microscope photograph after 300 cleaning treatments using an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a curve diagram showing the influence of the initial saline pH value and stable voltage on the ClO concentration in the electrochemical disinfection and protein removal described in this patent. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, in which the same or similar numbers throughout the figures indicate the same or similar parts or parts having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are examples for explaining the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Based on the examples in the present invention, all other examples that can be obtained by a person skilled in the art without requiring creative efforts fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0038] In describing the present invention, it should be understood that the orientations or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "both ends," "one end," and "the other end" are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the drawings and are intended solely for the purpose of simplifying the explanation and description of the present invention. They do not indicate or suggest that the devices or components shown have a particular orientation or must be configured and operated in a particular orientation, and should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. In describing the present invention, the term "plurality" refers to two or more unless otherwise clearly and specifically limited. Additionally, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and "fifth" are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as expressing or implying a relative importance.

[0039] In describing the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified or limited, terms such as "installed," "provided," "coupled," "mounted," "fitted," "opened," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly, and may refer to, for example, a fixed connection, a detachable connection, an integrally formed structure, a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, a direct connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, an internal communication between two elements, or an interactive relationship between two elements. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] One aspect of the present invention provides an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method, the specific steps of which are as follows: Step S1: Inject sodium chloride solution into the care bottle, and at least a first electrode and a second electrode are installed in the care bottle. The pH value of the sodium chloride solution is greater than 8-12. The contact lens is placed in the sodium chloride solution in the care bottle. Of course, a halide solution such as potassium chloride can also be used. Power is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode, one of the first electrode and the second electrode becomes an anode and the other becomes a cathode, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side, and a reduction reaction occurs on the cathode side, and H2O in the sodium chloride solution is electrolyzed at the cathode to produce H2 and OH - and Cl in sodium chloride solution at the anode. - Step S2: electrolyzing Cl2 to Cl2, which dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO; The pH value of the solution in the care bottle was controlled within the range of 8 to 12, and the ClO - The mass concentration of the ClO is controlled to 0.1% to 0.4%. - In step S3, the contact lens is sterilized and denatured proteins and some native proteins on the contact lens are decomposed, and an electric field force is formed between the cathode and the anode, and the decomposed denatured proteins and some native proteins migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force, and the undecomposed native proteins also migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force, thereby achieving sterilization of the contact lens and protein removal. Here, contact lenses include corneal contact lenses, OK lenses, scleral lenses, etc.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the NaCl solution is a 0.9% saline solution, i.e., the concentration of the NaCl solution is 0.009 g / ml, the starting voltage when powering on is 1.1 V or higher, and the stable voltage range during stable operation after powering on is 3.5 to 6.5 V. In step S3, the contact lens care is completed after 10 to 60 minutes of reaction after powering on. If the starting voltage is too low, the cathode and anode cannot cause an oxidation-reduction reaction of the ions in the sodium chloride solution.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the contact lens can be placed horizontally or vertically in the NaCl solution in the care bottle. In one case, when the contact lens is placed horizontally in the NaCl solution in the care bottle, the height of the bottom of the first electrode and the second electrode is both higher than the height of the bottom of the care bottle, the height of the top of the contact lens is lower than the height of the bottom of the probe, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more. In another case, when the contact lens is placed vertically in the NaCl solution in the care bottle, the distance between the contact lens and the anode is 4 mm or more, and the distance between the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more. When electrode switching is performed for the first and second electrodes, the contact lens is preferably placed at a position intermediate between the first and second electrodes, and the distance from both the first and second electrodes is 4 mm or more. When electrode switching is not performed for the first and second electrodes, the distance between the contact lens and the anode is 4 mm or more, and the contact lens may, of course, be placed at a position intermediate between the first and second electrodes.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, in steps S2 and S3, after power is applied to the first and second electrodes, the first and second electrodes are switched between cathode and anode at regular time intervals. Preferably, the first and second electrodes are switched between cathode and anode every 0.5 to 2 minutes. More preferably, the first and second electrodes are switched between cathode and anode every 1 minute.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the basic chloride ion-containing solution is a mixture of NaCl and an alkaline substance, the sodium chloride solution contains an alkaline substance, and the alkaline substance includes one or more of NaOH, Na2CO3, and NaHCO3. More preferably, the alkaline substance is NaOH.

[0045] In this example, both the first and second electrodes are chlorine generating electrodes. In a sodium chloride solution, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side, resulting in the deposition of chlorine gas from chloride ions in the solution. The chlorine generating electrode has excellent corrosion resistance, chlorine resistance, acid resistance, stability, and oxidation resistance, and has a long service life. It can prevent the anode itself from reacting or other products from contaminating the electrolyte or cathode products. It also promotes the discharge of bubbles between and on the electrode surfaces, effectively reducing the voltage in the electrolytic cell. It is easy to manufacture and has a highly refined shape. Common metal electrodes are mainly ruthenium, iridium, and platinum-based. Other inert electrodes (such as graphite and graphene) can also be used as chlorine generating electrodes as long as their morphological stability is maintained. Preferably, the electrode substrate is a titanium alloy substrate or a platinum-coated substrate. Preferably, the cathode and anode are arranged symmetrically on both sides of the care chamber, and both are located near the side walls of the care chamber to achieve better protein removal. In the example, the first electrode and the second electrode are both probes, but of course the first electrode and the second electrode may be electrode pieces, and can be adjusted appropriately as needed.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, After the care in step S3 is completed, the method further includes step S4 of rinsing the contact lens with sterile saline or a multi-functional care solution that can be applied to the eye. Of course, it is preferable to apply a lubricant to the concave surface of the contact lens after rinsing before wearing the contact lens.

[0047] Example Based on the influence of each of the above parameters, the inventors conducted a series of experiments to verify the influence of each parameter on contact lens care results, such as sterilization and protein removal. In these experiments, tests were conducted using CRT contact lenses, which contain the lightest colorant currently available on the market. A saline solution with a mass concentration of 0.9% was used, and the initial pH value of the saline solution was adjusted to different values. The starting voltage of the care bottle, the stable voltage, the contact lens placement method, the distance from the liquid surface, the distance from the anode, whether or not the electrodes were switched, the switching frequency, and the operating time were adjusted to obtain the final pH value of the solution at the end of care and the ClO concentration. - The final concentration of each compound was measured, and the protein removal rate, sterilization rate including the sterilization rate of bacteria and fungi, and the effect of sterilization and protein removal care on the color of contact lenses were examined. The experimental data and results are shown in Table 1 below. JPEG2026507277000002.jpg218170JPEG2026507277000003.jpg176170

[0048] Typically, contact lenses are treated with protein removal once a week, and by adjusting and combining various parameters, if the contact lenses can be treated 50 times without fading, this meets the annual care requirements for disposable contact lenses. As can be seen from the table, the higher the initial pH value of the sodium chloride solution, the less impact it has on fading and the higher the protein removal efficiency.

[0049] In addition, we used saline with a mass concentration of 0.9%, a pH value of over 8, a starting voltage of 1.1 V, a contact lens placed vertically in the care bottle, a distance between the contact lens and the liquid surface of over 4 mm, a distance between the contact lens and the anode of over 4 mm, and no electrode switching. The test was performed for 10 minutes. Different initial saline pH values ​​and different stable voltages were used to measure the ClO - The results of detecting the effect on concentration are shown in Table 2 below. JPEG2026507277000004.jpg55170

[0050] As can be seen from Table 2 and Figure 14, the higher the initial pH value of the saline solution, the greater the ClO - The concentration increases and ClO - Since the pH of the solution contributes to the sterilization and protein removal of contact lenses, a higher pH value is advantageous for the sterilization and protein removal of contact lenses. At the same time, a higher pH value is advantageous for reducing the impact on the color of contact lenses.

[0051] Meanwhile, as shown in Figures 1 to 8, the present invention provides an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device, which includes a care bin 1, a base 2 and a control system, The care bin 1 includes a storage tank 11, a sinking tank 12, a first electrode 13, and a second electrode 14, the sinking tank 12 is connected to the storage tank 11, and the sinking tank 12 is located below the storage tank 11, and the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14 are both installed in the storage tank 11, and the base 2 can supply electrical energy to the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14; When power is applied to the first and second electrodes, the electrical properties of the first and second electrodes are opposite, with one being the cathode and the other being the anode. In a working environment where a sodium chloride solution with a pH value of over 8 is poured into the care bottle, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side and a reduction reaction occurs on the cathode side, and the cathode electrolyzes the H2O in the sodium chloride solution to produce H2 and OH. - and the anode is connected to Cl in a sodium chloride solution. - is electrolyzed to Cl2, which dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO, -The electrochemical device can sterilize contact lenses and decompose denatured proteins and some native proteins on the contact lenses. The decomposed denatured proteins and some native proteins migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force formed between the anode and cathode. Undecomposed native proteins also migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force, thereby achieving sterilization of the contact lenses and protein removal. It should be noted here that proteins on contact lenses include denatured proteins and native proteins. When a contact lens is placed in a solution, native proteins generally fall off the contact lens and enter the solution, while decomposed or undecomposed native proteins can migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force. Denatured proteins adhere to the contact lens, and decomposed denatured proteins fall off the contact lens and enter the solution, and then migrate toward the electrode opposite to their self-charge due to the action of the electric field force.

[0052] The control system may control the operation of the device.

[0053] Preferably, the NaCl solution is a physiological saline solution with a mass concentration of 0.9%, the starting voltage when powering on the first and second electrodes is 1.1 V or higher, the stable voltage range during stable operation after powering on is 3.5 to 6.5 V, and the operating time after powering on is 10 to 60 minutes. When the device is in an operating state, ClO in the solution in the care bottle - The mass concentration of is maintained at 0.1% to 0.4%, which provides optimal sterilization and protein removal effects and the safest operating and use environment.

[0054] When a sodium chloride solution is placed in a care bottle and power is applied to the first and second electrodes, the following reaction occurs at the cathode and anode: Cathode:2H2O+e=H2↑+2OH - (I) Anode: 2Cl - -e → Cl2↑(II) Cl2 + H2O = HCl + HClO (III) The resulting HClO undergoes the following reaction: 2H ClO = 2HCL + O2↑ (IV) NaClO - = NaClO (V) NaClO+H2O = HClO+NaOH (VI)

[0055] When the sodium chloride solution is in a neutral environment, the solution mainly contains a mixture of NaClO, NaOH, and HClO. When the sodium chloride solution is in an alkaline environment, the solution mainly contains NaClO and NaOH. In an alkaline environment, the dynamic equilibrium of the reversible reaction of Formula VI is forced to shift to the left, resulting in a higher NaClO concentration and a lower HClO concentration. The disinfection and protein removal by NaClO is relatively mild and does not have bleaching properties, so lens fading is avoided. The ClO in NaClO - Ions play a bactericidal and proteolytic role, and in combination with electrophoresis, they achieve protein removal. HClO has bactericidal and bleaching properties, so high HClO concentrations can cause lens discoloration, while low HClO concentrations can significantly reduce the effect of HClO on contact lens color.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second electrodes are symmetrically installed in the container 11, and both the first and second electrodes are close to the side wall of the container 11, thereby achieving a good protein removal effect. In this example, both the first and second electrodes are conductive probes, and both the conductive probes are designed as separate pieces for easy assembly and sealing. Of course, it should be noted that the electrodes may be electrode conductors of other shapes.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the control system is equipped with an electrode switching module, which switches the first and second electrodes between cathode and anode after power is applied to them. The electrode switching module can switch the first and second electrodes between cathode and anode through a control circuit. Preferably, the first and second electrodes switch between cathode and anode every 0.5 to 2 minutes. Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the electrode operation and switching circuit, and Table 3 below shows the driving logic of the circuit: JPEG2026507277000005.jpg51170

[0058] In the circuit diagram of Figure 9, IC1 is a microcontroller unit (MCU), Q1 and Q3 are both N-channel field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), Q2 and Q4 are both P-channel field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), R1 and R2 are both resistors, C1 is a capacitor, the care bottle contains 0.9% saline solution, a contact lens is placed in the care bottle, and a simulated electrode R' is located between the first and second electrodes. The MCU drive level signal: H is high level, L is low level.

[0059] As shown in the circuit logic driving table in Table 3, in the first state, when the MCU's driving arm X is high (H), driving arm Y is low (L), the MCU's driving arm U is low (L), and driving arm V is high (H), the current forms a current circuit through the power supply Vdd → Q1 → R' → Q4 → R1. At this time, the first electrode of CareBin is positive (+) and the second electrode is negative (-). The current flows through R1, generating a divided voltage V1. After being filtered by R2 and C1, it is input to the sampling voltage Vad of the MCU's AD. The voltage of this port is used to determine whether the current circuit is established. If there is a voltage at Vad, CareBin is operating normally. If the voltage at Vad is 0V, CareBin is operating abnormally.

[0060] Second state: When the MCU's driving arm X is low (L), driving arm Y is high (H), the MCU's driving arm U is high (H), and driving arm V is low (L), the current forms a current circuit through the power supply Vdd → Q3 → R' → Q2 → R1. At this time, the first electrode of CareBin is negative (-) and the second electrode is positive (+). The current flows through R1, generating a divided voltage V1. After being filtered by R2 and C1, it is input to the MCU's AD sampling voltage Vad. The voltage at this port determines whether a current circuit is established. If there is a voltage at Vad, CareBin is operating normally. If the voltage at Vad is 0V, CareBin is operating abnormally.

[0061] Third state: When the MCU's driving upper arm X is at low level (L), driving upper arm Y is at low level (L), driving lower arm U is at low level (L), and driving lower arm V is at low level (L), no current circuit is formed, the first electrode and the second electrode are both suspended and not charged, and the carebin does not operate.

[0062] When the device continuously operates in the first state or the second state, the first electrode and the second electrode are not switched. When the electrode switching module switches the control circuit between the first state and the second state, the device operates in the electrode switching mode, and the first electrode and the second electrode are switched between the cathode and the anode. In this manner, the first electrode and the second electrode are switched.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the device further includes a lens clip 3, which can confine the contact lens 5 in the chloride ion-containing solution.

[0064] For example, the lens clip is a horizontal lens clip 31, which restricts the placement of the contact lens in the settling tank 12 to a horizontal position, preventing the contact lens from being too close to the electrode and fading due to oxidation. The distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution is 4 mm or more. The contact lens and the electrode are positioned at different horizontal gradients, which increases the contact distance between the contact lens and the anode.

[0065] 4 to 6, the horizontal lens clip includes a mounting base 311, a support member 312, and a position limiting member 313, the support member 312 is installed perpendicular to the mounting base 311, the position limiting member 313 has position limiting holes 314, there are at least two position limiting members 313, the position of the contact lens is limited within the position limiting holes 314, the longitudinal direction of the position limiting holes 314 coincides with the horizontal direction during use. The position limiting holes serve to limit the position of the contact lens, and prevent the contact lens from moving or shaking when placed sideways in the sodium chloride solution during the protein removal and sterilization process, which would affect the protein removal and sterilization effects or cause damage to the contact lens.

[0066] Preferably, the support part 312 is a soft support that facilitates the placement of the contact lens, and the retention part 313 is a soft retention part that can prevent damage to the contact lens. In an example, the lateral lens clip is a one-piece plastic lens clip.

[0067] In one example, the lens clip is a vertical lens clip 32, which can restrict the placement of the contact lens in the care bottle vertically, the plane formed by the first electrode and the second electrode is installed perpendicular to the contact lens, the distance between the contact lens and the cathode probe or the anode probe is 4 mm or more, and the height between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution is 4 mm or more.

[0068] The purpose of making the height between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution 4 mm or more is to prevent the anode from absorbing Cl in the sodium chloride solution when sterilizing and removing proteins from contact lenses. - This is because the solution is electrolyzed to Cl2, which rises from near the electrode and escapes from the liquid surface. The escaped Cl2 dissolves in the solution due to its own gravity and water solubility, generating HCl and HClO. This results in a large amount of HClO and Cl2 near the liquid surface, and when HClO accumulates to a certain concentration, it affects the color of the lens. Therefore, maintaining a sufficient distance between the top of the contact lens and the liquid surface can reduce the rate of contact lens fading.

[0069] The purpose of having a distance of 4 mm or more between the contact lens and either the cathode probe or the anode probe is to ensure that the areas near the anode and cathode are in different pH environments when sterilizing and removing proteins from contact lenses. Among these, near the cathode, H2O in the sodium chloride solution is electrolyzed to produce H2 and OH. - is generated, e+2H2O=H2 and OH - In the vicinity of the anode, Cl in the sodium chloride solution - is electrolyzed to Cl2, which dissolves in water to produce HCl and HClO, creating an acidic environment with a pH much lower than 7. Therefore, if a sufficient distance is not maintained between the contact lens and the anode, it is likely to lead to lens fading.

[0070] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the vertical lens clip includes a mounting base 321 and at least two receiving members 322. The receiving members 322 are vertically mounted on the mounting base 321, and the receiving members 322 have receiving holes 323. In use, the longitudinal direction of the receiving holes 323 is aligned vertically. There are at least two receiving members 322, and the contact lens is confined within the receiving holes 323 of the receiving members 322. The receiving holes serve to restrict the contact lens so that it is placed vertically in the chloride ion-containing solution during the protein removal and sterilization process, preventing movement or shaking that could affect the protein removal and sterilization process or damage the lens. Preferably, the vertical lens clip has an eccentric design. When the contact lens is placed vertically, the contact lens is biased toward the cathode, away from Cl2 and HClO, and the contact liquid is mainly NaClO, which reduces the impact on the lens color and achieves relatively good sterilization and protein removal effects.

[0071] Preferably, the receiving part 322 is a soft support, which can prevent damage to the contact lens while facilitating the receiving of the contact lens. In an example, the vertical lens clip is a one-piece plastic lens clip.

[0072] Preferably, the care bin is further provided with a lid 16, which is placed over the care bin 1. The lens clip 3 is fixedly attached to the lid 16. In an example, the lens clip 3 is detachably attached to the lid 16, and when a contact lens is placed in the care bin to be sterilized and protein removed, the lid 16 is placed over the care bin 1. More preferably, there are two care bins 1, allowing simultaneous cleaning and care of two contact lenses, one for each eye.

[0073] In one embodiment, a PCB board, an energy storage member, and a control panel are installed within the base, and the energy storage member can supply electrical energy to the device. The first and second electrodes of the care bin extend from the bottom of the care bin to the outside of the care bin. The base is provided with conductive contacts and a storage tank, and the first and second electrodes are respectively matched with corresponding conductive contacts. The conductive contacts and the control panel are both electrically connected to the PCB board. The control panel can control the sterilization and protein removal operations of the care bin through the PCB board and the control system. When the care bin is cleaned and used, it is placed in the storage tank, and preferably, the care bin is attracted to the storage tank by magnetic force.

[0074] In an example, the base 2 is further provided with a cleaning tank, and after the contact lenses have been sterilized and deproteinized in the care bottle, sterile saline or a multi-functional eye care liquid is poured into the cleaning tank, the cover is removed, and the contact lenses confined by the lens clip are transferred into the cleaning tank, and the cleaning tank is started and operated to clean the contact lenses.

[0075] All features of the above components can be freely combined unless they are inconsistent, and furthermore, variations, modifications and changes in the structural features of the components are also included in the scope of protection of this patent.

[0076] The effectiveness of this device was examined in terms of protein removal efficiency, bacterial sterilization rate, fungal sterilization rate, and effect on coating. 1. Protein removal efficiency test In this invention, 0.9% saline solution is used, that is, the pH value is 7. The device was sent to an authoritative testing center (Suzhou Baituo Biotechnology Services Co., Ltd.) to test the protein removal efficiency. The device was operated for 30 minutes under the experimental conditions of starting voltage 1.1V, stable voltage 5V, contact lens placed vertically in the care bottle, distance between contact lens and liquid surface more than 4mm, distance between contact lens and anode more than 4mm, and no electrode switching, and the results of report number MR20220407-01 showed that the protein removal efficiency exceeded 90%. 2, Sterilization rate Tests included bacterial sterilization and fungal sterilization efficiency tests. Experimental conditions included 0.9% saline solution, pH 7, starting voltage 1.1V, stable voltage 5V, contact lens placed vertically in the container, distance between contact lens and solution surface over 4mm, distance between contact lens and anode over 4mm, no electrode switching. For bacterial sterilization efficiency testing, the device was sent to the authoritative testing center of Zhejiang Fangyuan Testing Group Co., Ltd., and according to report number 2212421321, after 10 minutes of operation, the sterilization rate for E. coli 8099 was 99.999% and the sterilization rate for Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 was 99.999%. For the fungal sterilization efficiency test, the device was also sent to the authoritative testing center of Zhejiang Fangyuan Inspection Group Co., Ltd., and the results of report number 2212419201 showed that after the device was operated for 5 minutes, the sterilization rate of white bead fungus TCC10231 was 99.999%, and after operating for 10 minutes, the sterilization rate of white bead fungus T810231 was 99.999%. The longest test period in the above test report is 6 months. Due to time constraints, the present invention presents the test results when the initial pH value of the sodium chloride solution is 7, which proves that the sterilization protein removal method of this device has good protein removal rate and sterilization rate. 3. Impact on contact lens coatings When comparing contact lens treatments using this device's technology to those using commercially available treatment solutions, a clear difference in the impact on the contact lens coating was observed. Using this device, contact lenses were treated for 30 minutes under experimental conditions: initial pH range of 8-12 with 0.9% saline, starting voltage of 1.1 V, stable voltage of 5 V, contact lenses were placed vertically in the treatment bottle, the distance between the contact lens and the solution was greater than 4 mm, the distance between the contact lens and the anode was greater than 4 mm, and no electrode switching was performed. After treatment, the impact of contact lens treatment on the coating was examined using scanning electron microscopy and quantitative elemental analysis. As a control, contact lenses were immersed in AB solution for 30 minutes and then examined using scanning electron microscopy and quantitative elemental analysis. The effects of treatment on the contact lens treatment were also examined using multiple treatments for both the experimental and control cases.

[0077] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, Figure 10 is an SEM electron micrograph of a new contact lens, i.e., one that has not been worn or used and has not undergone sterilization or protein removal care; Figure 11 is an SEM electron micrograph of one contact lens that had been treated with AB solution for six months; Figure 12 is an SEM electron micrograph of another contact lens that had been treated with AB solution for six months; and Figure 13 is an SEM electron micrograph of a contact lens that had been treated with an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device for 300 cleaning sessions. From an external perspective, the surfaces of the new contact lens that had not been used or cared for and the contact lens that had been treated with an electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device for nine months were relatively smooth, while the surface of the contact lens that had been treated with AB solution for six months was relatively rough. In this experiment, it took nine months to perform 300 cleaning sessions using the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device.

[0078] The red-framed area in Figure 10 is defined as Region 1, the two red-framed areas in Figure 11 are defined as Region 2 and Region 3, respectively, and the red-framed area in Figure 12 is defined as Region 4. The element content analyses of Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, and Region 4 are as follows:

[0079] JPEG2026507277000006.jpg49170

[0080] JPEG2026507277000007.jpg56170

[0081] JPEG2026507277000008.jpg59170

[0082] JPEG2026507277000009.jpg49170

[0083] Based on elemental content, region 2 of one contact lens treated with AB solution for six months and region 1 of a new contact lens that had not been used or cared for had similar C contents, and the total F and Si contents of regions 2 and 1 were more similar compared to regions 3 and 1. This led us to conclude that region 2 represents a coating film remaining on the contact lens surface, and region 3 represents the underlying material exposed after the coating film breaks down. The elemental content of region 4 of the other contact lens treated with AB solution for six months differed from regions 1, 2, and 3. The F and Si contents dropped sharply, while the N and O contents increased sharply. The mass percentages of region 4 were close to the C, N, and O content ratios of protein, suggesting that it contains more protein. The N content of region 2 was higher than that of region 1 of the new contact lens, suggesting that region 2 may have adsorbed protein during contact lens use. Therefore, it can be inferred that after the contact lens was treated with AB solution, there was a coating film remaining on the surface, and material exposed after the coating broke down, and that protein precipitation may have occurred. On the other hand, the contact lenses after 300 times of treatment with the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device not only have smooth surfaces but also have a high degree of agreement in terms of element percentage and mass percentage compared to new contact lenses, that is, the contact lenses after 300 times of treatment with the electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device have no surface damage and no protein precipitates, which is not significantly different from new contact lenses.

[0084] In the description herein, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "further embodiment," "another embodiment," "other embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" mean that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in the embodiment or examples are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In the present specification, illustrative descriptions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can combine and combine different embodiments or examples described herein.

[0085] While the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative and not limiting of the present invention, and that those skilled in the art may make variations, modifications, and changes to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1 Carebin 2. Bass 3 Lens Clip 5. Contact lenses 11 Containment Tank 12 Settling tank 13 First electrode 14 Second electrode 16 Lid 31 Horizontal Lens Clip 311 Mounting seat 312 Support member 313 Position limiting member 314 Position limiting hole 32 Vertical Lens Clip 321 Fixed seat 322 Storage member 323 Receiving hole

Claims

1. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method includes the steps of: placing a sodium chloride solution in a care bottle; installing at least a first electrode and a second electrode in the care bottle, the first electrode and the second electrode being chlorine generating electrodes; and placing a contact lens in the sodium chloride solution in the care bottle, the pH value of which is in the range of 8 to 12; and Step S2: powering on the first electrode and the second electrode, one of the first electrode and the second electrode becomes an anode and the other becomes a cathode, an oxidation reaction occurs on the anode side, a reduction reaction occurs on the cathode side, the cathode electrolyzes H2O in the sodium chloride solution to produce H2 and OH-, the anode electrolyzes Cl- in the sodium chloride solution to Cl2, and Cl2 dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO; and step 3, wherein the pH value of the solution in the care bottle is controlled to be in the range of 8 to 12, and the mass concentration of ClO- in the solution is controlled to be in the range of 0.1% to 0.4%, the ClO- being capable of sterilizing the contact lens and decomposing denatured proteins on the contact lens, an electric field force is formed between the cathode and the anode, and the decomposed denatured proteins are caused by the action of the electric field force to move toward the electrode opposite to their own charge, thereby achieving sterilization of the contact lens and protein removal.

2. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method of claim 1, wherein the NaCl solution is a physiological saline solution with a mass concentration of 0.9%; and in step S3, the power is turned on and the reaction is allowed to proceed for 10 to 60 minutes, after which the power is turned off to terminate the contact lens care.

3. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method of claim 2, characterized in that the heights of the bottoms of the first electrode and the second electrode are both higher than the height of the bottom of the care bottle, the contact lens is placed horizontally in the NaCl solution in the care bottle, the height of the top of the contact lens is lower than the height of the bottom of the probe, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more, or the contact lens is placed vertically in the NaCl solution in the care bottle, the distance between the contact lens and the anode is 4 mm or more, and the distance between the contact lens and the surface of the NaCl solution is 4 mm or more.

4. 2. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method of claim 1, wherein in steps S2 and S3, after power is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode are switched between cathode and anode at regular time intervals.

5. 5. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method according to claim 4, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are switched between cathode and anode every 0.5 to 2 minutes.

6. 2. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method of claim 1, wherein the NaCl solution further contains an alkaline substance, which may include one or more of NaOH, Na2CO3, and NaHCO3, and the pH value of the sodium chloride solution in step S1 is adjusted to a range of 8 to 12.

7. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal method of claim 1, further comprising step S4 of rinsing the contact lens with sterile saline or a multi-functional care solution that can be applied to the eye after the care in step S3 is completed.

8. An electrochemical disinfection and protein removal device comprising a care bin (1) and a base (2), The care bin (1) includes a storage tank (11), a sinking tank (12), a first electrode, and a second electrode, the sinking tank (12) is connected to the storage tank (11) and is located below the storage tank (11), the first electrode and the second electrode are both installed in the storage tank (11), and the base (2) can supply electrical energy to the first electrode and the second electrode; When power is applied to the first and second electrodes, the first and second electrodes have opposite electrical properties, with one electrode acting as a cathode and the other as an anode. In a working environment where a sodium chloride solution with a pH value above 8 is added to a care bottle, an oxidation reaction occurs at the anode side and a reduction reaction occurs at the cathode side. The cathode electrolyzes the H2O in the sodium chloride solution to produce H2 and OH-, and the anode electrolyzes the Cl- in the sodium chloride solution to Cl2, which dissolves in the solution to produce HCl and HClO. The ClO- can sterilize contact lenses and decompose denatured proteins on contact lenses. The decomposed denatured proteins migrate toward the electrode opposite to their own charge due to the action of the electric field force formed between the anode and cathode, thereby achieving sterilization of contact lenses and protein removal. This electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device is characterized by the following characteristics.

9. the first electrode and the second electrode are both chlorine generating electrodes, and when the device is in an operating state, the mass concentration of ClO- in the solution in the care bottle is 0.1% to 0.4%; The NaCl solution is a physiological saline solution with a mass concentration of 0.9%, and the operation time after power-on is 10 to 60 minutes; 9. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device according to claim 8, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are symmetrically installed in the containing vessel (11), and both the first electrode and the second electrode are adjacent to the side wall of the containing vessel (11).

10. 9. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device of claim 8, further comprising a horizontal lens clip (31) capable of confining the contact lens horizontally within the settling tank (12), thereby preventing the contact lens from coming too close to the electrodes and oxidizing and fading, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution is 4 mm or more; or a vertical lens clip (32) capable of confining the contact lens vertically within the care bin, with the entire contact lens positioned at a perpendicular angle to the first and second electrodes, the distance between the contact lens and the anode is 4 mm or more, and the distance between the top of the contact lens and the surface of the sodium chloride solution is 4 mm or more.

11. 11. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device of claim 10, wherein the horizontal lens clip (31) comprises a mounting base (311), a support member (312) and a position limiting member (313), the support member (312) is installed vertically on the mounting base (311), the position limiting member (313) has a position limiting hole (314), the longitudinal direction of the position limiting hole (314) coincides with the horizontal direction in use, there are at least two position limiting members (313), and the position of the contact lens is limited within the position limiting hole (314).

12. 9. The electrochemical sterilization and protein removal device of claim 8, further comprising a control system, wherein the control system is provided with an electrode switching module, which can switch the first electrode and the second electrode between a cathode and an anode through circuit control.

Images