Differential-Roughness Intraocular Lens Haptics for Laser Power Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional intraocular lenses (IOLs) require post-operative adjustments, which pose safety risks and necessitate precise and safe methods for altering their optical power.

Innovation Solution

Intraocular lenses with haptics having distinct surface roughness and a composite material that responds to laser light, allowing for adjustable power changes through laser treatments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If laser treatments are used to adjust IOL post-operatively, then the optical power can be modified to improve focusing ability, but patient safety is compromised due to potential laser damage to ocular tissues

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical power adjustmentVSAvoidlaser damage to ocular tissues

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A laser safety filter is introduced as an intermediary component between the laser source and the ocular tissues. This filter selectively transmits the laser wavelength used for IOL adjustment while blocking harmful wavelengths that could damage the lens and retina, enabling safe post-operative power modification

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The IOL incorporates a photochromic or electrochromic material that changes its optical properties (absorption, transmission, or focal length) in response to laser irradiation. This allows the optical power to be adjusted by exposing the lens to specific laser wavelengths without requiring mechanical intervention or risking tissue damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

2Productivity

If traditional IOLs are implanted, then the surgical procedure is simple and quick, but post-operative adjustments require additional surgical interventions increasing complexity and risk

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesurgical efficiencyVSAvoidpost-operative adjustment procedure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The IOL is equipped with integrated adjustment mechanisms that allow post-operative power modification without requiring surgical intervention. The lens can be adjusted through non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures such as laser irradiation or magnetic field application, eliminating the need for additional surgery and reducing patient risk

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The IOL transitions from a static optical element to a dynamic, adjustable device. The lens incorporates movable components or variable optical materials that allow the focal length and optical power to be changed after implantation, enabling adaptation to patient needs without additional surgical procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If the haptic surface is made smooth, then laser light transmission is improved for power adjustment, but the haptic may slip within the capsular bag reducing stability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser light transmissionVSAvoidhaptic stability in capsular bag

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The haptic is designed with differentiated surface characteristics along its length. The central portion maintains a smooth surface for optimal laser light transmission and power adjustment, while the distal portions incorporate micro-roughness or engagement features that increase friction and prevent slippage within the capsular bag, simultaneously achieving both laser transmission and mechanical stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 safe and accurate post-operative adjustment of IOLs by altering optical power in response to laser stimuli, enhancing focusing capabilities without compromising patient safety.

Implementation Method 1

the composite material can be configured to change shape in response to receiving laser light directed at the composite material. A base power of the optic portion can be configured to change in response to the laser light directed at the composite material.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelasticity: Photoelasticity

Implementation Method 2

the haptic posterior portion can be configured to diffuse the laser light directed at the haptic.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight diffusion: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS20250262046A1Ophthalmic lenses, ophthalmic lens components, and apparatus, systems, and methods of forming an ophthalmic lens component

Publication Date: 2025.08.21 ALCON INC

AI summary

Disclosed are ophthalmic lenses, ophthalmic lens components, and methods, systems, and apparatus for manufacturing an ophthalmic lens component. In one aspect, disclosed is an intraocular lens, comprising an optic portion and a haptic coupled to the optic portion. The haptic can comprise a haptic anterior portion and a haptic posterior portion. The haptic anterior portion can have an anterior surface roughness and the haptic posterior portion can have a posterior surface roughness. The posterior surface roughness can be greater than the anterior surface roughness such that at least part of the haptic anterior portion is smoother than the haptic posterior portion.