Contact Lens Pre-defined Space for Embedded Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current contact lenses and medical devices lack the ability to incorporate pre-defined geometric shapes or voids that can swell, flex, or change size without causing distortion, limiting their functionality and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A method to create pre-defined spaces within medical devices like contact lenses using swellable materials, allowing for the embedding of components that maintain functionality and comfort by forming gaps around embedded objects as the device changes size, utilizing techniques such as polymerization and swelling agents to create geometric patterns and accommodate expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If components are embedded within a contact lens substrate, then functionality is enhanced, but distortion and deformation occur when the lens swells or changes shape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds components within a substrate material that forms a cavity or void around the component. The substrate is cured in a mold that creates this nested structure, allowing the component to be surrounded by material that can swell without directly distorting the component itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary embedding of components into the substrate material before final curing. The substrate is initially cured with the component in place, creating a pre-defined space, then later swollen to create gaps that prevent distortion during size changes.
2Ease of operation
If a contact lens is made from swellable hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials, then comfort is improved, but the lens changes size and shape making embedded components unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates gaps or voids around embedded components during the manufacturing process, before the lens is worn. These pre-formed spaces act as cushioning zones that absorb the stress of swelling and shrinking, protecting components from distortion while allowing the lens material to change size for comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates localized voids or gaps specifically around embedded components, while the rest of the lens material maintains its swellable properties. This local modification allows differential behavior - the lens swells for comfort while the component areas remain stable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If geometric patterns or objects are embedded in a contact lens, then additional functions are achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single manufacturing step. Components are embedded into the substrate material, which is then cured in a mold to simultaneously create the lens shape, embed the components, and form protective voids around them. This merging of operations simplifies the overall process despite the added functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables predictable operation and enhanced functionality of medical devices by preventing distortion during swelling or shape changes, allowing for features like refractive power modification, light control, and diagnostics without compromising vision or comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a substrate having a pre-defined space formed therein and a component provided at least partially in the pre-defined space formed in the substrate, wherein the pre-defined space is enlargeable upon swelling of the substrate
Implementation Method 2
a substrate that changes size from a first size, to second and third sizes, either by expanding or shrinking, and structure is provided in the substrate which accommodates such changes in size without distorting the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device including a pre-defined space such as a geometric shape or void. In one approach, the pre-defined space provides desired rigidity and more comfort for a user. There is also provided an approach which enables engravings and accommodates electronics, mechanical objects, or other rigid or unique shapes to be embedded within a medical device such as a contact lens. When adapted to swellable substrates, the resulting swelled material can leave a gap around a perimeter of embedded structure.