Rotating Dial Actuation for Intraocular Lens Cartridge Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for cataract surgery lack an efficient method for removably attaching a drive mechanism handpiece to an intraocular lens (IOL) cartridge, which is essential for proper IOL delivery and handling during surgery.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a packaging with a passage that houses an IOL cartridge, which features a dial that rotates upon withdrawal, releasing the IOL cartridge from the packaging and folding the IOL for delivery. This system allows for interchangeable handpieces with different drive mechanisms to be securely attached to the IOL cartridge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the IOL cartridge is preloaded and stored in packaging, then the IOL is protected and ready for use, but the process of removing and configuring the IOL for delivery becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL is pre-loaded into the cartridge and folded into a compact configuration within the packaging before surgery. The cartridge is pre-assembled with all necessary components, so that upon removal and rotation, the IOL is already in the correct configuration for delivery, eliminating the need for time-consuming assembly steps during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The IOL cartridge incorporates a rotatable dial mechanism that dynamically changes the configuration of the IOL from a folded storage state to an unfolded delivery state through simple rotational motion. This dynamic transformation allows the IOL to adapt its shape based on the operational phase (storage vs. delivery) without requiring complex manual manipulation.
2Productivity
If a separate bay is loaded into the insertion tool, then the IOL can be delivered, but the system requires multiple components and steps increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the IOL storage cartridge, the delivery mechanism, and the actuation system into a single integrated unit. The cartridge itself contains the IOL in a folded state and includes a rotatable dial that directly actuates the delivery mechanism, eliminating the need for separate bays and multiple loading steps required by traditional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The IOL cartridge serves multiple functions: it protects the IOL during storage, maintains the IOL in a compact folded configuration, provides a simple rotation-based actuation mechanism, and delivers the IOL directly into the eye. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple separate components (bay, insertion tool, actuation mechanism) with a single versatile device.
3Ease of operation
If the dial rotates to release the IOL cartridge from packaging, then the IOL configuration is corrected and the cartridge is released, but this requires precise mechanical interaction between packaging features and the dial
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging structure includes integrated features (ledges, protrusions, cam surfaces) that automatically interact with the dial during removal. As the cartridge is pulled from the packaging, these features naturally guide the dial through the required rotation and engagement motions without requiring external actuation or complex control mechanisms, making the system self-actuating.
Solution Approach 2:
The dial mechanism utilizes rotational motion (a different dimension) to achieve linear release of the IOL cartridge from the packaging. Instead of directly pulling the cartridge linearly, the rotation of the dial converts rotational movement into linear displacement, providing a mechanical advantage and simplifying the release action while maintaining precise control through geometric constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for storing and/or shipping an intraocular lens (IOL) cartridge are provided. A system comprises a packaging comprising a passage. The IOL cartridge is removably disposed within the passage. The IOL cartridge comprises a nozzle and a compartment configured to receive an IOL. The nozzle is in fluid communication with the compartment. The IOL cartridge further comprises a dial configured to rotate upon withdrawal of the IOL cartridge from the passage, wherein an inner surface of the dial is exposed to the compartment. The dial is configured to fold the IOL and release the IOL cartridge from the packaging upon rotation of the dial.