Lens holder

Abstract

An enclosure for contact lenses can include a base, a cover, and a basket assembly. The base includes a bottom and a sidewall that define an internal volume. The cover is configured to removably couple with the base and enclose the internal volume. The basket assembly is configured to be received within the internal volume and includes a frame, a first basket, and a second basket. The frame includes a receptacle. The first basket and the second basket are pivotally coupled to the frame and are movable between a closed position and an open position. The basket assembly is in a closed position when the baskets are in the closed position. The first basket and the second basket surround the receptacle when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

Description

LENS HOLDERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 602,868, filed November 27, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to containers and enclosures for contact lenses.BACKGROUND

[0003] Contact lenses can correct for a variety of vision disorders such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia, etc., and other medical conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder. Contact lenses can also be worn by a user for aesthetic purposes and / or recreational purposes.SUMMARY

[0004] At least one embodiment relates to a contact lens case. The contact lens case includes a barrel, a cap, and a basket assembly. The barrel includes a bottom and a sidewall that define an internal volume. The cap is configured to removably couple with the barrel and enclose the internal volume. The basket assembly is configured to be received within the internal volume and includes a frame, a first basket, and a second basket. The frame includes a receptacle. The first basket and the second basket are pivotally coupled to the frame and are movable between a closed position and an open position.

[0005] At least one embodiment relates to an enclosure for contact lenses. The enclosure includes a base, a cover, and a basket assembly. The base includes a bottom and a sidewall that define an internal volume. The cover is configured to removably couple with the base and enclose the internal volume. The basket assembly is configured to be received within the internal volume andincludes a frame, a first basket, and a second basket. The frame includes a receptacle. The first basket and the second basket are pivotally coupled to the frame and are movable between a closed position and an open position. The basket assembly is in a closed position when the baskets are in the closed position. The first basket and the second basket surround the receptacle when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

[0006] Another embodiment relates to an enclosure for contact lenses. The enclosure includes a base, a cover, and a frame. The base includes a bottom and a sidewall defining an internal volume. The cover is configured to removably couple with the base and enclose the internal volume. The frame is coupled to the cover and includes a receptacle. The receptacle is fluid permeable and includes an opening that faces away from the cover.

[0007] Another embodiment relates to a method of assembling an enclosure for contact lenses. The method includes providing a frame defining a fluid permeable receptacle; coupling a first basket coupling a first basket to a first end of the frame. The first basket is configured to pivot about a pivot axis. The method includes coupling a second basket to the first end of the frame. The second basket is configured to pivot about the pivot axis. The method includes enclosing the receptacle by coupling the first basket and the second basket to a second end of the frame.

[0008] This summary is illustrative only and should not be regarded as limiting.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a contact lens enclosure, according to some embodiments;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a basket assembly of the contact lens enclosure of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2 in an open position, according to some embodiments;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2 in an open position, according to some embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2 in a closed position, according to some embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2 in the closed position, according to some embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a left-side view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 9 is a front view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a right-side view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;1 020] FIG. 11 is a top view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0023] FIG. 14 is a section view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the section view of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0025] FIG. 16 is a front-right-top perspective view of a frame of the basket assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments;

[0026] FIG. 17 is a front-left-bottom perspective view of the frame of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments;

[0027] FIG. 18 is a left-side view of the frame of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments;

[0028] FIG. 19 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments;

[0029] FIG. 20 is a right-side view of the frame of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments;

[0030] FIG. 21 is a top view of the frame of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments;

[0031] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of the frame of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments; and

[0032] FIG. 23 is a flow diagram of a process of making a contact lens enclosure, according to some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0034] As utilized herein, the term “basket” means a container for containing objects. In at least one embodiment, the basket is at least partially permeable to liquids.

[0035] The present disclosure is directed to enclosures and cases for ocular devices. Ocular devices include devices placed in contact with an eye of a user and / or over and / or in an eye socket (e.g., the orbit, the space of the ocular adnexa, etc.) of a user. For example, ocular devices include contact lenses (soft contact lenses, hard contact lenses, bifocal contact lenses, piano contact lenses, decorative contact lenses, scleral contact lenses), ocular prosthetics, and other eye or vision devices. Ocular devices require special handling, storage, and maintenance to ensure user comfort. Ocular devices contact the eye and / or tissues surrounding the eye during use. Factors such as pH, salinity, and moisture levels can be controlled to ensure user comfort and usability.

[0036] During cleaning and disinfection, contact lenses can be exposed to cleaning agents. For example, oxidizers such as hydrogen peroxide can clean (e.g., break down proteins and other deposits) and disinfect contact lenses (e.g., eliminate pathogenic microorganisms). Low concentration cleaning and disinfecting solutions (e.g., a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution) can provide cleaning and disinfection. Low concentration cleaning and disinfecting solutions can reliably achieve a threshold level of cleanliness and disinfection, but can also increase the amount of time the contact lenses need to remain in the cleaning and disinfecting solution when compared to higher concentration hydrogen peroxide solutions.

[0037] At the start of the cleaning and disinfecting process, the permanence of the cleaning and disinfecting agent is highest, and is reduced over time by a neutralizing agent, until the solution is neutralized. For example, a neutralizing agent may reduce a hydrogen peroxide permanence from 3% to less than 0.5% over a duration of time (e.g., 5 minutes, 12 minutes, 1 hour, 12 hours, 1 day, etc.).

[0038] The neutralizing agent can be added to the cleaning and disinfecting solution after a duration of time either manually (e.g., by a user) or by a time release mechanism. A time release mechanism can delay and / or control the rate at which the neutralizing agent is able to neutralize the cleaning and disinfecting solution.

[0039] Furthermore, retrieving contact lenses from a solution can be burdensome. First, contact lenses are often at least partially transparent and can be difficult to visually distinguish and locate. Second, contact lenses can be delicate and prone to tearing, cracking, and puncturing. For example, contact lenses are susceptible to being damaged by a user’s finger, a user’s finger nail (e.g., while being extracted from solution by a user’s finger), and can be damaged by debris or solids present within the solution. Third, contact lenses are small and typically require careful pinch grasping which requires a high level of dexterity that may not be easily attainable for users having limited dexterity. Fourth, a user may experience visual distortion or other visual defects while the contact lenses are not worn by the user, which can exacerbate these and other technical challenges described herein.

[0040] Referring now to FIGS. 1-22, an enclosure (e.g., a contact lens case, a contact lens enclosure, a contact lens housing, a contact lens receptacle, a contact lens cleaning vessel, an enclosure assembly, etc.), shown as contact lens enclosure 10, is configured to receive, store, and maintain optical devices (e.g., contact lenses, scleral contact lenses, optical prosthetics, etc.), according to some embodiments. For example, the contact lens enclosure 10 may receive, store, and maintain one contact lens, two contact lenses (e.g., a pair of contact lenses), or more than two contact lenses (e.g., three, four, etc.).

[0041] In some embodiments, the contact lens enclosure 10 includes a base 12 (e.g., barrel bottom, receptacle, basin, cup, etc.), a cover 14 (e.g., cap, lid, top, etc.), and a basket assembly 100 (e.g., contact lens holder, contact lens basket, basket enclosure, basket insert, etc.). The base 12 may include a bottom portion 16 and sidewalls 18 that define an internal volume 20. In some embodiments, the base 12 may be barrel shaped. That is, the sidewalls 18 may be round and have a convex shape that bulges near the center of the sidewall 18. The base 12 can be filled with and retain fluids (e.g., liquid solutions, contact solutions, saline solutions, gasses, etc.) within the internal volume 20. The bottom portion 16 and sidewalls 18 form a barrier that prevent fluids from passing through the bottom portion 16 and sidewalls 18, according to some embodiments. For example, the base 12 may be made from glass, plastic, ceramic, a composite, etc., and may be an open top container. As shown in FIG. 1, the base 12 may be at least partially made of atransparent and / or translucent material. For example, the bottom portion 16 and / or sidewalls 18 may allow light to pass such that contents of the internal volume 20 can be visually observed through at least a portion of the bottom portion 16 and / or sidewalls 18. For example, the base 12 may include a window portion to allow observation and visual inspection of the internal volume 20 without removing the cover 14. The window may allow a user to observe colors and activity of the fluid (e.g., bubble formation, color changes, occupancy changes, frothing, etc.) within the internal volume 20 though the bottom portion 16 and / or sidewalls 18. In some embodiments, the cover 14 and / or the base 12 includes a window portion.[00421 As shown in FIGS 1-3, the cover 14 is configured to removably couple with the base 12 and encloses the internal volume 20. In some embodiments, the cover 14 includes a threaded portion 22 that may thread onto and / or thread into a corresponding threaded portion of the base 12. The cover 14 may include one or more pressure release apertures 24. The pressure release apertures 24 may permit pressurized gasses to pass therethrough. For example, high pressure gasses within the internal volume 20 may pass through the pressure release apertures 24 to release pressures built within the internal volume 20 (e.g., due to temperature changes, due to gas formation, etc.). In some embodiments, the pressure release apertures 24 are or include pressure release valves (e.g., safety valves, etc.) that selectively permit gasses to pass through the valve when the pressure of the gasses exceeds a predetermined threshold level.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cover 14 includes a sealing member (e.g., an elastomeric sealing member, a silicone gasket, a silicone disk, etc.), shown as gasket 26, coupled to the interior facing surface of the cover 14 (e.g., the surface facing the internal volume 20 when the cover 14 is coupled to the base 12). The gasket 26 can facilitate a continuous seal between the cover 14 and the base 12. In some embodiments, the gasket 26 may include slits (e.g., punctures, etc.) that are selectively transitioned between a closed position, in which the internal stresses of the gasket 26 force the slits closed and do not permit fluid to pass, and an open position, in which the internal stresses of the material of the gasket 26 and force the slits apart, thereby providing an aperture through which pressurized gasses can escape until the pressure drops and the slits return to the closed position.In other words, the slits of the gasket 26 can act like a one way pressure release valve or a two way (bi-directional) pressure release valve.

[0044] In some embodiments, the slits of the gasket 26 are in fluid communication with the pressure release apertures 24. In some embodiments, the slits of the gasket 26 may facilitate a fluid flow through one or more conduits at least partially defined within the gasket 26 and / or the cover 14 between the pressure release apertures 24 and the slits of the gasket 26. For example, the cover 14 may include a recessed portion 28 (e.g., channel, groove, slot, etc.) that do not contact the gasket 26 and define a space between the gasket 26 and the cover 14 in which fluids and gasses may pass. In some embodiments, the cover 14 fluidly seals the internal volume 20. In some embodiments, the cover 14 fluidly seals the internal volume 20 until pressure within the internal volume 20 builds or reduces to a threshold pressure differential such that gas is permitted to be exchanged through the pressure release apertures 24 (e.g., by forcing the slits of the gasket 26 into the open position). In some embodiments, the pressure release apertures 24 are configured to regulate pressure such that the cover 14 does not bind with the base 12 (e.g., generate large frictional forces at the threaded portion 22 that prevent rotation of the cover 14 relative to the base 12) and also prevents failure (e.g., cracking, splitting, fracturing, etc.) of the cover 14 and / or the base 12 due to pressure differences between the internal volume 20 and the ambient environment of the contact lens enclosure 10. For example, the pressure release apertures 24 may prevent failures due to the contact lens enclosure 10 exploding or imploding. In this way, for example, the cover 14 and base 12 may seal the internal volume 20 such that the cover 14 and base 12 prevent liquids from leaking or spilling out of or into the internal volume 20 (e.g., by providing a fluid tight seal) and also avoids pressure-related complications (e.g., by permitting ventilation).

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cover 14 includes a cylindrical boss 30 (e.g., an extruded mounting pocket, a round rib, an open- top boss, etc.) that extends in a direction away from the interior surface of the cover 14. For example, the cylindrical boss 30 may extend in a direction normal to the interior surface of the cover 14. In some embodiments, the cover 14 defines a cover longitudinal axis 32. The cylindrical boss 30 may define a boss longitudinal axis 34 that is collinear with the cover longitudinal axis 32. In some embodiments, the cylindrical boss 30includes coupling features, such as threading, magnets, snap fasteners, and / or detents that are configured to couple the basket assembly 100 to the cover 14. In some embodiments, the cylindrical boss 30 is configured to receive a portion of the basket assembly 100.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, the basket assembly 100 is received by a cavity defined by the cylindrical boss 30. In some embodiments, the basket assembly 100 is press fit, coupled, welded, bonded, adhered, threaded onto, threaded into, or otherwise coupled with the cover 14. In some embodiments, the basket assembly 100 is configured to pivot about the boss longitudinal axis 34 such that the cover 14 can pivot about the cover longitudinal axis 32 independently and / or synchronously with basket assembly 100. For example, the basket assembly 100 may be coupled to the cover 14 via a bushing or bearing.

[0047] In some embodiments, the basket assembly 100 may be received by the base 12 such that the basket assembly 100 cannot rotate within the internal volume 20. In such embodiments, the pivotable coupling between the basket assembly 100 and the cover 14 may permit the cover 14 to be rotated independently of the base 12 and the basket assembly 100 and thereby facilitate a relative rotational motion between the cover 14 and the base 12. The pivot motion may effectuate an engagement (e.g., a threaded engagement) and a seal between the cover 14 and the base 12, according to some embodiments.1 048] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cover 14 includes a top surface 36. The top surface 36 may extend within a plane that is approximately perpendicular to the cover longitudinal axis 32. The top surface 36 may be a planar exterior surface of the cover 14. In some embodiments, the top surface 36 is placed on a flat surface (e.g., a substantially flat surface) and prevents the cover 14 from tipping relative to the flat surface on which it is placed. For example, the cover 14 may be removed (e.g., decoupled) from the base 12, inverted, and placed on a substantially flat surface (e.g., a table, a floor, a sink, a desk, a shelf, a ledge, etc.) such that the planar surface of the cover 14 abuts against the flat surface and supports the cover 14 and basket assembly 100. In some embodiments, the cover 14 is supported by the top surface 36 such that the basket assembly 100 does not contact the substantially flat surface. In some embodiments, the cover 14 may have afootprint that is larger than the footprint of the basket assembly 100 and the basket assembly 100 may be coupled to the cover 14 such that the centroid of the basket assembly 100 is gravitationally above the cover 14 and coincides with an equilibrium settling point of the cover 14.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 2-15, the basket assembly 100 includes a frame 102 and a pair of baskets (e.g., lens baskets, etc.), shown as basket 104 and basket 106, according to some embodiments.

[0050] In some embodiments, the frame 102 extends between a first end 108 and a second end 110. The frame 102 may include a pivot portion 114. The pivot portion 114 may include a first pivot, shown as pivot pin 116, and a second pivot, shown as pivot pin 118. In some embodiments, the pivot pin 116 and the pivot pin 118 define a pivot axis 120. The pivot axis 120 may be a pivot axis about which the first basket 104 and / or the second basket 106 are pinned and can pivot relative to the frame 102. In some embodiments, the pivot pin 116 defines a first pivot axis, and the pivot pin 118 defines a second pivot axis that is offset from the first pivot axis. In some embodiments, the pivot portion 114 may include a first pivot aperture 122 and a second pivot aperture 124.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 8-22, the frame 102 includes a peg 126 (e.g., a post, a dowel, etc.). The peg 126 may be coupled to the second end 110. In some embodiments, the peg 126 is integrally formed with the frame 102. For example, the frame 102 and the peg 126 may collectively be a monolithic body. In some embodiments, the peg 126 extends along a peg axis 128. The peg 126 may be configured to engage the cover 14. For example, the peg 126 may engage the cylindrical boss 30. In some embodiments, the peg 126 includes a shoulder portion 130. The shoulder portion 130 may be integrally formed with the peg 126, or formed separately and coupled to the peg 126. For example, the shoulder portion 130 may be or include a retaining ring. The shoulder portion 130 may be received by the cover 14. For example, the shoulder portion 130 may engage the cover 14, and the shoulder portion 130 may constrain axial travel of the peg 126 in the direction of the boss longitudinal axis 34.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, the basket assembly 100 includes an adapter 132, according to some embodiments. The adapter 132 may be configured to receive the peg 126. The adapter 132 may interface with the peg 126 and the cover 14. For example, the adapter 132 may define a cavity 134 that is configured to receive the peg 126 and retain the shoulder portion 130 within the cavity 134. Alternatively or additionally, the adapter 132 may be configured to engage the cylindrical boss 30. For example, the adapter 132 may be two halves, shown as 132A and 132B, that join together around the peg 126. The two halves 132A and 132B may slot into the cylindrical boss 30. The cylindrical boss 30 may hold the two halves together around the peg 126. In some embodiments, the adapter 132 is retained within the cylindrical boss 30 by an interference fit (e.g., a press fit). For example, the adapter 132 may be slightly oversized (e.g., wider, larger, etc.) than the cylindrical boss 30 and friction between the cylindrical boss 30 and the adapter 132 may retain the adapter 132 within the cylindrical boss 30. For example, the adapter 132 may be wedged into a cavity of the cylindrical boss 30. In some embodiments, the cavity 134 of the adapter 132 may be larger than the peg 126 such that the peg 126 can pivot about the peg axis 128 within the cavity 134 independently or synchronously with the adapter 132. For example, the cavity 134 of the adapter 132 may have a cross sectional area near the opening of the adapter 132 that is smaller than the cross sectional area of the shoulder portion 130. The opening of the adapter 132 may prevent the shoulder portion 130 from escaping the cavity 134.

[0053] In some embodiments, the second end 110 of the frame 102 includes a catch portion 136. The catch portion 136 may facilitate locking or holding the basket 104 and the basket 106 to the frame 102. For example, the catch portion 136 may be or include edges 138 that catch a corresponding recessed portion (e.g., a dimple, a pocket, a notch, a groove, a channel, etc.) of a latch of the basket 104 and / or the basket 106. In some embodiments, the catch portion 136 may include edges 138, magnets (e.g., magnets embedded within the material of the frame 102), hooks, latches, and / or snap fasteners. In some embodiments, the edge 138 may extend along an edge axis 140. The edge axis 140 may be parallel to the pivot axis 120. In some embodiments, the pivot axis 120 and the peg axis 128 are coplanar. In some embodiments, the edge axis 140, the peg axis 128, and / or the pivot axis 120 are coplanar.

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 2-22, receptacle 112 (e.g., pocket, pot, bucket, bowl, cup, etc.) includes a receptacle wall 142 and a receptacle volume 144. The receptacle wall 142 may include a receptacle opening (e.g., entrance, exit, port, orifice, etc.), shown as opening 146. The opening 146 is an area defined by (e.g., bounded by) the receptacle rim 148. As shown in FIG. 4, the opening 146 is substantially planar and the opening 146 of the receptacle 112 faces toward the second end 110 of the frame 102. For example, a vector defined normal to the opening 146, away from the receptacle volume 144, points toward the second end 110 of the frame 102, according to some embodiments. The receptacle rim 148 may be round, for example, a circular shape, an oval shape, and / or a rounded polygonal shape (e.g., a rounded square). Rounded shapes can facilitate streamlined fluid kinematics and efficient cleaning of the surfaces of the frame 102. Rounded shapes may prevent bubbles from being trapped by edges and / or corners of the surfaces of the frame 102, as bubbles can more easily slip around rounded edges and corners relative to sharp edges and corners.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 4 and 22, the receptacle volume 144 may be an elliptical dome shape. In some embodiments, the receptacle volume 144 is at least partially dome-shaped, ovoid, egg- shaped, a box-shape, or a combination thereof. For example, the receptacle 112 may be a hollow sphere, ovoid, etc., that is cut off by a plane (e.g., the plane of the opening 146). In some embodiments, the receptacle wall 142 is at least partially an elliptical dome, and the receptacle rim 148 is at least partially elliptical.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 2-22, the receptacle wall 142 may define one or more receptacle apertures 150. Receptacle apertures 150 may facilitate fluid exchange between the receptacle volume 144 and the volume external to the receptacle wall 142. For example, a volume of fluid within the receptacle volume 144 may be exchanged (e.g., diffused) into a fluid ambient to the receptacle 112 via the receptacle apertures 150 and / or the opening 146. In some embodiments, the receptacle 112 may include four receptacle apertures 150. In some embodiments, the area of the opening 146 is larger than the area of each of the receptacle apertures 150. For example, the receptacle aperture 150 may be a first area, e.g., one centimeter (cm) squared (i.e., approximately 1 or 1.5 cm2), and the opening 146 may define a second area (e.g., approximately 2 cm2) that islarger than the first area. The area of the receptacle apertures 150 and / or the opening 146 may be the area of a plane (e.g., a two dimensional plane) or a hyperplane (e.g., a three dimensional plane), according to some embodiments.

[0057] In some embodiments, the sum of the area of multiple receptacle apertures 150 is greater than the area of the opening 146. In some embodiments, the receptacle wall 142 is at least partially a material having a mesh, weave, webbing, netting, or other liquid permeable structure. The receptacle apertures 150 (e.g., pores and / or voids) in the receptacle wall 142 may be smaller than a cross section of a dosage formulation (e.g., chemical charge, a pill, a tablet, etc.), shown as tablet 152. In some embodiments, the tablet 152 is a coated tablet, a capsule containing a dose of a neutralizing agent, a multi-layer tablet containing a dose of a neutralizing agent, a coated tablet containing a dose of a neutralizing agent, a gel containing a dose of a neutralizing agent, and / or other chemical dosage structures. For example, the tablet 152 may be a solid that is at least partially dissolved by liquid within the internal volume 20. In some embodiments, the tablet 152 is trapped within the receptacle volume 144 until the tablet 152 at least partially dissolves and the size and / or structural integrity of the tablet 152 diminishes such that the dissolved tablet 152 may pass through the receptacle apertures 150. The tablet 152 may pass through the opening 146 when the tablet 152 is in a compromised state (e.g., a dissolved state) and / or a non-compromised state (e.g., an non-dissolved state).

[0058] In some embodiments, the tablet 152 dissolves and / or disintegrates into the liquid within the internal volume 20 during each cleaning and disinfecting cycle. In some embodiments, the tablet 152 a multi-cycle tablet (e.g., not single-use consumable tablet) and the tablet 152 may be retained by the receptacle 112 for multiple cleaning and disinfection cycles. For example, the tablet 152 may be or include a platinum ring, a platinum wafer, a platinum disk, etc., that may be retained by the receptacle 112 over the course of multiple cleaning and disinfection cycles.

[0059] In some embodiments, the tablet 152 includes a neutralizing agent. The neutralizing agent (e.g., catalase) can be provided as part of a chemical charge (e.g., a tablet, a capsule, a mixture, a chemical composition, etc.), and the chemical charge can include other additives and chemicalagents, such as wetting agents (e.g., polyvinylpyrrolidone), buffers and phosphates (e.g., disodium phosphate), salt (e.g., sodium salt, sodium chloride), water soluble vitamins (e.g., riboflavin), and / or catalysts (e.g., an enzyme, papain, pancreatin, subtilisin, etc.).

[0060] The interaction between the neutralizing agent of the tablet 152 and a cleaning and disinfecting agent (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, etc.) of the cleaning and disinfecting solution can produce bubbles (e.g., oxygen bubbles formed as part of a redox reaction). The bubbles can agitate and circulate the cleaning and disinfecting solution and can contribute to cleaning the contact lenses (e.g., by mechanically dislodging debris and other contaminants from the contact lenses). However, the bubbles can stick to, cover, or be trapped by surfaces and / or pores of the contact lens, which can prevent surfaces of the contact lens from being exposed to the cleaning and disinfecting solution. To prevent bubbles accumulating on the surfaces of the contact lenses and prolong contact lens exposure to a full-strength cleaning and disinfecting solution, the tablet 152 may be configured to release the neutralizing agent into the cleaning and disinfecting solution after a period of time following the insertion of the tablet 152 (and contact lenses) into the full-strength cleaning and disinfecting solution. In this way, for example, the contact lenses can be exposed to a full-strength cleaning and disinfecting solution for a period of time prior to the neutralizing agent lowering the concentration of the cleaning and disinfecting solution, which can improve the efficiency of cleaning and disinfecting the contact lenses, and avoid the aforementioned bubble issues.10061 ] A time release mechanism can delay and / or control the rate at which the neutralizing agent is able to neutralize the cleaning and disinfecting solution. For example, a time release mechanism may be a chemical-based mechanism, such as a tablet, a capsule containing a dose of the neutralizing agent, a multi-layer tablet containing a dose of the neutralizing agent, a coated tablet containing a dose of the neutralizing agent, a gel containing a dose of the neutralizing agent, and / or other chemical barrier and metering techniques. In this way, a user can add the contact lenses and a chemical composition (e.g., a chemical charge) to the cleaning and disinfecting solution in quick succession (e.g., at the same time, as a single perceived single step in the procedure), and thechemical charge can delay and / or meter the neutralizing effects of the neutralizing agent to regulate the concentration of the cleaning and disinfecting agent over time.

[0062] Advantageously, the frame 102 is configured to receive a tablet 152 via the receptacle 112, and submerge the tablet 152 when the frame is within the internal volume 20. The basket assembly 100 can prevent the tablet 152 from floating to a surface of the cleaning and disinfecting solution.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the receptacle wall 142 includes an interior surface 154 and an exterior surface 156, according to some embodiments. The interior surface 154 faces the receptacle volume 144. The exterior surface 156 faces away from the receptacle volume 144. In some embodiments, the thickness of the receptacle wall 142 is tapered near the receptacle rim 148. In some embodiments, the interior surface 154 is at least partially straight (e.g., straight walled). For example, the receptacle volume 144 may be or include a well-shape, a cup shape, a bowl shape, etc. In some embodiments, the exterior surface 156 is curved. For example, the exterior surface 156 may be or include a curved surface or a double curved surface.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4-7, the basket 104 and the basket 106 are coupled to the pivot portion 114, according to some embodiments. The basket 104 and the basket 106 may pivot about the pivot axis 120. In some embodiments, the basket 104 and / or the basket 106 may pivot about the pivot axis 120 between an open position (see, e.g., FIGS. 2 and 4), and a closed position (see, e.g., FIGS. 6-7). As shown in FIG. 5, the basket 104 is in an open position and the basket 106 is in a closed position, according to some embodiments.

[0065] In some embodiments, the basket 106 is in a basket open position when the basket rim 158 is angularly offset from the frame 102. For example, the basket 106 may be in a basket closed position when a basket rim 158 of the basket 106 is in close contact with the frame 102, and the basket 106 is prevented from pivoting about the pivot axis 120. For example, the basket 106 may include a latch portion 160 configured to engage the catch portion 136. For example, the latch portion 160 may include a hook 162. The hook 162 may capture the edge 138. In some embodiments, the hook 162 may elastically deform while pivoting about the pivot axis 120. Forexample, the hook 162 may elastically deform prior to the basket 106 reaching the basket closed position. The elastic deformation may cause the hook 162 to snap over (e.g., pop over) the edge 138. In some embodiments, the hook 162 may be a cantilever snap. In some embodiments, the hook 162 includes a tooth 164. The tooth 164 may have an entry surface 165 (e.g., engagement surface) and an exit surface 166 (e.g., retraction surface). The entry surface 165 may contact the catch portion 136, pass over the edge 138, and the exit surface 166 may contact a the catch portion 136 and capture the edge 138. In some embodiments, the edge 138 is a double bevel edge. In some embodiments, the latch portion 160 includes a magnet (e.g., an embedded magnet) that magnetically attracts the catch portion 136.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 4-7, the basket 106 includes a basket wall 170 and a basket volume (e.g., basket space) 172. The basket wall 170 may include a basket opening (e.g., entrance, exit, port, orifice, etc.), shown as basket opening 174. In some embodiments, the basket opening 174 is an area defined by (e.g., bounded by) the basket rim 158. As shown in FIG. 4, the basket opening 174 is substantially planar and the basket opening 174 faces toward the second end 110 of the frame 102 when the basket 106 is in the basket open position. For example, a vector defined normal to the basket opening 174, away from the basket volume 172, points in the direction of the second end 110 of the frame 102, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the basket rim 155 surrounds the basket opening 174. In some embodiments, the basket rim 155 may be round, for example, a circular shape, an oval shape, and / or a rounded polygonal shape (e.g., a rounded square).

[0067] In some embodiments, the basket volume 172 may be a spherical dome shape. In some embodiments, the basket volume 172 is at least partially dome-shaped, ovoid, egg-shaped, a boxshape, or a combination thereof. For example, the basket wall 170 may be a hollow sphere with a plane cut off (e.g., the plane containing the basket rim 158).

[0068] In some embodiments, the basket wall 170 may define one or more basket apertures 176. Basket apertures 176 may facilitate fluid exchange between the basket volume 172 and the volume external to the basket wall 170. For example, a volume of fluid within the basket volume 172 maybe exchanged (e.g., diffused, dispersed, etc.) into a fluid ambient to the basket 106 via the basket apertures 176 and / or the basket opening 174. In some embodiments, the basket 106 may include multiple basket apertures 176. In some embodiments, the area of the basket opening 174 is larger than the area of each of the basket apertures 176. For example, the basket aperture 176 may bound a first area, e.g., two centimeters (cm) squared (i.e., approximately 2 cm2), and the basket opening 174 may define a second area (e.g., approximately 3 cm2) that is larger than the first area. The area of the basket apertures 176 and / or the basket opening 174 may be the area of a plane (e.g., a two dimensional plane) or a hyperplane (e.g., a three-dimensional plane), according to some embodiments.

[0069] In some embodiments, the basket 104 has some or all of the features and functions of the basket 106. For example, the basket 104 may have a basket wall 180 that is similar to the basket wall 170, a basket volume 182 that is similar to the basket volume 172, a basket opening 184 that is similar to the basket opening 174, and / or a basket rim 185 that is similar to the basket rim 155. In some embodiments, the basket 106 may include some or all of the features and functions described with respect to the basket 104.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, when the basket assembly 100 is in the closed position, the basket volume 172 is on a first side 186 of the frame 102 and the basket volume 182 is on an opposing second side 188 of the frame 102, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the basket volume 172 is joined (e.g., fluidly connected with) with the receptacle volume 144 and the basket volume 182 via receptacle apertures 150. In some embodiments, the basket volume 172 and the basket volume 182 are j oined by passages 183 that extend through the frame 102 and fluidly connect the first side 186 and the second side 188 of the frame 102.

[0071] In some embodiments, when the basket assembly 100 is in the closed position, the basket 104 and the basket 106 surround the receptacle 112. For example, the basket 104 and basket 106 may surround the bottom side, top side, front side, back side, left side, and right side of the receptacle 112. For example, the basket 104 and basket 106 may clam shell around the receptacle 112. In some embodiments, the curvature of the exterior surface 156 of the receptacle 112 is alocal extrema of the first side 186 of the frame and a local extrema on the second side 188 of the frame 102, and the local extrema are coaxial with a center (e.g., center of sphere) of the basket wall 170 and the basket wall 180. For example, the central axis of the basket volume 172, the central axis of the basket volume 182, the point of inflection 190, and the point of inflection 192, fall on axis 194.

[0072] In some embodiments, a space (e.g., a void, gap, etc.) between the basket wall 170 and the exterior surface 156 of the receptacle 112 defines a contact lens space 196. In some embodiments, a space between the basket wall 180 and the exterior surface 156 of the receptacle 112 defines a contact lens space 198. The contact lens space 196 may hold a right contact lens and the contact lens space 198 may hold a left contact lens. In some embodiments, the contact lens space 196 and the contact lens space 198 are configured to hold more than one contact lens. In some embodiments, the contact lens space 196 and the contact lens space 198 are configured to permit movement of a contact lens. For example, the contact lens space 196 and the contact lens space 198 may be oversized relative to a contact lens. In some embodiments, the exterior surface 156 is convex, and is configured to support the concave side of a contact lens within the contact lens space 196 and / or the contact lens space 198. The curvature of the basket wall 170 and the exterior surface 156 of the receptacle 112 may be similar to the curvature of a contact lens (e.g., a toric contact lens, a spherical contact lens, etc.). When the basket assembly 100 is in the closed position, the receptacle 112 may be within the basket volume 172 and the basket volume 182. For example, the receptacle volume 144 may intersect the basket opening 174 and the basket opening 184.

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 3, 16, and 17, the frame may include multiple spokes 200. The receptacle 112 may be coupled to the spokes 200. The spokes 200 may span a void that at least partially extends around the receptacle 112 and is formed through the frame 102 between the first side 186 and the second side 188. The spokes 200 may extend radially away from the receptacle 112. The spokes 200 may be coplanar with the pivot axis 120, the edge axis 140, and / or the peg axis 128. In some embodiments, the spokes 200 extend radially about the axis 194 (see, e.g., FIG. 14). In some embodiments, the spokes 200 are elongated members that extend between a first end and a second end. The spokes 200 may be coupled to the receptacle 112 at a first end and aperiphery portion of the frame 102 at a second end. In some embodiments, fluids are permitted to travel from the first side 186 of the frame 102 to the second side 188 of the frame 102 via an annulus of voids formed between the spokes 200.

[0074] In some embodiments, the spokes 200 extend in a plane that is adjacent to a plane containing the receptacle rim 148. For example, the spokes 200 may extend in a plane that is adjacent to the opening 146.

[0075] Referring now to FIG. 23, a flow diagram of a process 300 of assembling an enclosure for contact lenses is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The enclosure for contact lenses may be the contact lens enclosure 10.

[0076] In a step 302, the process 300 can include providing a frame defining a fluid permeable receptacle. The frame may be the frame 102. For example, the frame 102 may include a receptacle 112 configured to receive a tablet 152. The frame 102 may be a monolithic body. In some embodiments, the frame 102 is formed via an additive manufacturing technique (e.g., 3-d printing, etc.), casting, forging, machining, etc. In some embodiments, the frame 102 may be an assembly of parts that are formed separately and then joined together to form the frame 102.

[0077] In a step 304, the process 300 can include coupling a basket to a first end of the frame. In some embodiments, the basket can be the basket 106 and the frame can be the frame 102. For example, the basket 106 may be coupled to the first end 108 of the frame 102 via the pivot portion 114. In some embodiments, the basket 106 is configured to pivot about the pivot axis 120. In some embodiments, the basket 106 includes a first pivot hook that is received by the pivot aperture 122 and a second pivot hook that is received by the pivot aperture 124. The pivot hooks may engage the pivot pin 116 and the pivot pin 118.

[0078] In a step 306, the process 300 can include coupling another basket to the first end of the frame. In some embodiments, the basket can be the basket 104 and the frame can be the frame 102. For example, the basket 104 may be coupled to the first end 108 of the frame 102 via the pivot portion 114. In some embodiments, the basket 104 is configured to pivot about the pivotaxis 120. In some embodiments, the basket 106 includes a first pivot hook that is received by the pivot aperture 122 and a second pivot hook that is received by the pivot aperture 124. The pivot hooks may engage the pivot pin 116 and the pivot pin 118. In some embodiments, a pivot hook of the basket 104 engages the same pivot pin 116, and pivot aperture 124 and / or pivot aperture 122 may simultaneously receive a pivot hook of the basket 104 and a pivot hook of the basket 106.

[0079] In a step 308, the process 300 can include enclosing the receptacle. In some embodiments, the receptacle can be the receptacle 112. In some embodiments, the receptacle is enclosed within the basket 104 and the basket 106. For example, the basket 104 and the basket 106 may be moved (e.g., pivoted) about the pivot axis 120 from an open position to a closed position where the latch portion 160 may couple with the catch portion 136 of the frame 102, and the receptacle 112 is surrounded by the basket 104 and the basket 106. In some embodiments, the catch portion 136 is at the second end 110 of the frame 102.

[0080] In a step 310, the process 300 can include coupling the frame to a cover. In some embodiments, the frame can be the frame 102 and the cover can be the cover 14. For example, the frame 102 may be coupled to the cover via the adapter 132. In some embodiments, the frame 102 is pivotally coupled to the cover 14. In some embodiments, the frame 102 includes a peg 126, and the peg 126 may be received by a corresponding hole formed in the cover 14.

[0081] In a step 312, the process 300 can include coupling the cover to a base. In some embodiments, the base can be the base 12 and the cover can be the cover 14. The cover 14 may be coupled with a basket assembly 100. The basket assembly 100 may be inserted into an internal volume 20 of the base 12, and the cover 14 can engage the base 12 and sealingly enclose the internal volume 20. The cover 14 may include pressure release apertures 24 that selectively unseal the internal volume 20 based on changes in pressure.

[0082] In a step 314, the process 300 can include positioning a tablet within the receptacle. In some embodiments, the tablet is a chemical agent (a neutralizing agent) provided in a dosage formulation. In some embodiments, the tablet can be the tablet 152. The tablet 152 can be orinclude an agent configured to neutralize an oxidizer present in a solution held within the internal volume 20 of the base 12, according to some embodiments.

[0083] In a step 316, the process 300 can include providing a kit for assembling a contact lens enclosure. For example, the kit can include the frame 102, the basket 104, the basket 106, the cover 14, the base 12, the tablet 152, and / or other eye care products such as contact lenses, a volume of contact solution, and eye drops.

[0084] In a step 318, the process 300 can include, subsequent to coupling the baskets to the frame, placing contact lenses in the baskets and a dose formulation in the receptacle. For example, the basket 106 and the basket 104 may be in an open position and pivotally coupled to the frame 102, the frame 102 may be coupled to the cover 14, and the cover 14 may be inverted and placed on a supporting surface. For example, the basket assembly 100 may be coupled to the cover 14 and be in the position shown in FIG. 2. The cover 14 may support the frame 102 such that the basket 104 and basket 106 do not contact the supporting surface. The openings of the basket 104 and the basket 106 may face toward the second end 110. The second end 110 may be gravitationally higher than the first end 108 when the cover 14 is inverted. In some embodiments, the process 300 can continue with step 308. For example, the basket 104 and the basket 106 may entrap the receptacle 112 and contents thereof (e.g., tablet 152), such that when the receptacle 112 is gravitationally below the cover 14 prior to being plunged into the internal volume 20 of the base 12, the contents of the receptacle 112 are retained within the basket assembly 100. For example, the internal volume 20 may be at least partially filled with a liquid (e.g., a cleaning and / or a neutralizing solution), and the orientation of the base 12 may cup the liquid, and the cover 14 and basket assembly 100 may be inserted from a position above the surface of the liquid.

[0085] As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms generally mean + / - 10% of the disclosed values, unless specified otherwise. As utilized herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, forexample, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0086] It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

[0087] The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

[0088] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0089] Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above.

[0090] It is important to note that any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. For example, the adapter 132 of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 may be incorporated in the cover 14 of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that can be incorporated or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An enclosure for contact lenses, the enclosure comprising: a base having a bottom and a sidewall defining an internal volume; a cover configured to removably couple with the base to enclose the internal volume; a basket assembly configured to be received within the internal volume, wherein the basket assembly comprises: a frame comprising a receptacle; a first basket pivotally coupled to the frame and movable between a first basket open position and a first basket closed position; a second basket pivotally coupled to the frame and movable between a second basket open position and a second basket closed position; wherein the basket assembly is in a closed position when the first basket is in the first basket closed position and the second basket is in the second basket closed position, and wherein the basket assembly is in an open position when the first basket is in the first basket open position and the second basket is in the second basket open position; and wherein the first basket and the second basket surround the receptacle when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

2. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is nested within the first basket and the second basket when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

3. The enclosure of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the frame is coupled to the cover.

4. The enclosure of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the frame comprises a first end and a second end, and wherein the first basket and the second basket are pivotally coupled to the first end of the frame.

5. The enclosure of claim 4, wherein the receptacle is open toward the second end of the frame.

6. The enclosure of claim 4, wherein the first basket, the second basket, and the receptacle are open toward the second end of the frame when the basket assembly is in the open position.

7. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the receptacle comprises a receptacle rim, and wherein a projection of the receptacle rim in a direction away from the receptacle is intersected by the first basket and the second basket when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

8. The enclosure of claim 7, wherein the first basket and the second basket do not intersect the projection of the receptacle rim when the basket assembly is in the open position.

9. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the receptacle comprises a receptacle rim in a first plane, and wherein the first basket and the second basket intersect the first plane when the basket assembly is in the closed position, and wherein the first basket and the second basket do not intersect the first plane when the basket assembly is in the open position.

10. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the basket assembly defines a plurality of fluid passages defined through the first basket, the receptacle, and the second basket, wherein the fluid passages permit fluid to flow through the basket assembly when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

11. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein a first distance defined between a rim of the receptacle and the cover is greater than a second distance defined between the cover and a pivot pin of the frame.

12. The enclosure of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first basket is configured to pivot about a pivot axis and the second basket is configured to pivot about the pivot axis.

13. The enclosure of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first basket and the second basket define a basket volume when the basket assembly is in the closed position, and wherein the receptacle is within the basket volume when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

14. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the first basket surrounds a first side of the receptacle and the second basket surrounds a second side of the receptacle, and wherein the first basket and the second basket engage a second end of the frame when the basket assembly is in the closed position.

15. An enclosure for contact lenses, the enclosure comprising: a base having a bottom and a sidewall defining an internal volume; a cover configured to removably couple with the base to enclose the internal volume; and a frame coupled to the cover and comprising a receptacle, the receptacle being fluid permeable and including an opening that faces away from the cover.

16. The enclosure of claim 15, wherein the internal volume is configured to contain a volume of liquid, and wherein the frame is configured to submerge the receptacle within the volume of liquid when the cover is coupled to the base.

17. The enclosure of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein a diameter of the cover is larger than a diameter of a receptacle rim of the receptacle.

18. The enclosure of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein a first end of the frame is coupled to the cover and a second end of the frame is spaced from the cover, and wherein the receptacle is open toward the second end of the frame.

19. The enclosure of claim 15, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of spokes extending radially from the receptacle.

20. The enclosure of claim 19, wherein the plurality of spokes are in a first plane, and wherein a rim of the receptacle is within a second plane that is substantially perpendicular to the first plane.

21. A method of assembling an enclosure for contact lenses, the method comprising:providing a frame defining a fluid permeable receptacle; coupling a first basket to a first end of the frame, wherein the first basket is configured to pivot about a pivot axis; coupling a second basket to the first end of the frame, wherein the second basket is configured to pivot about the pivot axis; and enclosing the fluid permeable receptacle by coupling the first basket and the second basket to a second end of the frame.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: coupling the frame to a cover; inserting the frame, the first basket, and the second basket into an internal volume of a base; and subsequent to inserting the frame, the first basket, and the second basket, into the internal volume of the base, sealing the internal volume by coupling the cover to the base.

23. The method of claim 21 or claim 22, further comprising providing a neutralizing agent in a form insertable within the fluid permeable receptacle, wherein the neutralizing agent is configured to neutralize an oxidizer solution within the internal volume.

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