Conformable Corneal Shield Segmentation for Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for epithelial defects on the cornea, such as those following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), often fail to effectively prevent water entry into the cornea, leading to swelling and pain, and existing bandage lenses may not fit well or provide adequate oxygen, potentially worsening the condition.
Innovation Solution
A covering with an inner portion of specific rigidity and oxygen permeability to conform to the ablated stromal surface, combined with an outer portion to seal the cornea and resist movement, promoting epithelial regeneration and reducing irregularities, thereby improving vision and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a bandage therapeutic lens is placed over the epithelial defect to cover and protect the corneal tissues, then the corneal tissues are protected, but the lens may not prevent water from leaking through the epithelial defect into the stroma, causing corneal swelling
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is divided into an inner portion with higher rigidity to conform to the ablated stromal surface and an outer portion with lower rigidity to seal against the epithelium, creating a segmented structure that addresses both protection and water prevention functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies particular rigidity parameters for the inner and outer portions of the covering, with the inner portion having higher rigidity to maintain conformity to the ablated surface and the outer portion having lower rigidity to ensure sealing, thereby optimizing both protective and preventive functions
2Ease of operation
If a bandage therapeutic lens is used to cover the epithelial defect, then some symptoms are reduced, but the lens may slide over the defect when positioned on the eye, potentially decreasing the therapeutic benefit
Solution Approach 1:
The outer portion of the covering is designed with lower rigidity to conform flexibly to the irregularities of the epithelium and surrounding tissues, enhancing adhesion and preventing sliding while maintaining position stability
Solution Approach 2:
The covering is designed to conform to the curved surface of the cornea, with the inner portion matching the curvature of the ablated stromal surface to ensure stable positioning and prevent sliding
3Reliability
If existing bandage lenses are used to treat epithelial defects, then some therapeutic benefit is provided, but the lenses may not provide adequate oxygen, potentially worsening the condition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that the covering materials have particular oxygen permeability parameters, ensuring adequate oxygen transmission to the cornea while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness, thereby preventing oxygen-related worsening of the condition
4Strength
If the inner portion of the covering has high rigidity to maintain shape, then it can provide structural support, but it may not conform well to the irregular ablated stromal surface
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is segmented into an inner portion with higher rigidity for structural support and an outer portion with lower rigidity for conforming to the epithelium, allowing each segment to optimize its function
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the covering have different rigidity properties tailored to their specific functions: the inner portion has higher rigidity to maintain shape and provide structural support, while the outer portion has lower rigidity to conform to the epithelial surface
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
The covering facilitates rapid and smooth epithelial regeneration, reduces corneal swelling, and enhances vision by conforming to the ablated surface, providing improved fit and oxygenation, thus addressing the deficiencies of existing treatments.
Implementation Method 1
an inner portion having a modulus and a thickness so as to conform at least partially to the ablated stromal surface and so as to smooth irregularities
Implementation Method 2
The inner portion may comprise an amount of rigidity within a range from about 1×10−4 to about 5×10−3 (Pa*m{circumflex over ( )}3) so as to conform at least partially to the ablated cornea
Data Source
AI summary
A conformable covering comprises an outer portion with rigidity to resist movement on the cornea and an inner portion to contact the cornea and provide an environment for epithelial regeneration. The inner portion of the covering can be configured in many ways so as to conform at least partially to an ablated stromal surface so as to correct vision. The conformable inner portion may have at least some rigidity so as to smooth the epithelium such that the epithelium regenerates rapidly and is guided with the covering so as to form a smooth layer for vision. The inner portion may comprise an amount of rigidity within a range from about 1×10−4 Pa*m3 to about 5×10−4 Pa*m3 so as to deflect and conform at least partially to the ablated cornea and smooth an inner portion of the ablation with an amount of pressure when deflected.