Annular Insert Sealing for Wireless Ophthalmic Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ophthalmic devices, such as contact lenses, lack a mechanism for wireless energization of embedded semiconductor devices, limiting their functionality and ability to control optical characteristics.

Innovation Solution

The development of methods and apparatus for sealing and encapsulating energized components within ophthalmic lenses, including a Multi-Piece Insert with an embedded energy source and circuitry, allowing for wireless power and activation of electronic devices within the lens.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If semiconductor devices are embedded in contact lenses, then functionality is enhanced, but wireless power mechanism is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidpower mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical/wire connections with wireless electromagnetic induction for power transmission. A coil assembly in the contact lens communicates with a base station via electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for physical wire connections while enabling power delivery to embedded semiconductor devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a coil assembly as an intermediary component that facilitates wireless power transfer. The coil acts as a mediator between the external base station and the embedded semiconductor devices, enabling energy transmission through electromagnetic induction without direct contact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple components are sealed together, then encapsulation integrity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing integrityVSAvoidfabrication process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the contact lens into multiple separable components including front curve piece, back curve piece, and insert with distinct sealing zones. Each component can be manufactured independently and then assembled with sealing, allowing for specialized fabrication processes for each component while maintaining overall sealing integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies sealing agents to components before final assembly. The sealing agents are positioned in advance on specific surfaces, and components are then brought together to form sealed chambers, ensuring proper sealing without requiring complex post-assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If sealant is applied to multiple surfaces, then sealing coverage is improved, but application complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing coverageVSAvoidsealant application

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-functional sealant composition that provides both adhesive bonding and sealing properties simultaneously. This single material performs multiple functions - bonding components together while also creating fluid-tight seals, eliminating the need for separate adhesive and sealant application steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9977260B2Sealing and encapsulation in energized ophthalmic devices with annular inserts

Publication Date: 2018.05.22 JOHNSON & JOHNSON VISION CARE INC

AI summary

This invention discloses methods and apparatus for sealing and encapsulating Components on and within an annular-shaped Multi-Piece Insert. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic Lens is cast molded from a silicone hydrogel and the Component includes a sealed and encapsulated Multi-Piece Insert portion.