Gradient Rigidity Eye Covering for Post-LASIK Corneal Conformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refractive eye surgeries like LASIK result in suboptimal visual acuity and discomfort due to corneal irregularities and edema, which slow down the recovery of optimal vision and increase patient discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A covering with an inner portion of greater rigidity and an outer portion of lesser rigidity, designed to conform to the cornea's post-ablation profile, is applied to the eye to reduce movement and enhance healing, thereby improving visual acuity and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid covering is applied to the cornea, then the covering provides structural support and maintains shape, but it does not conform to the irregular post-ablation profile of the cornea
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is designed with spatially varying rigidity: the central region has higher rigidity to maintain optical quality and structural support, while the peripheral region has lower rigidity to conform to the irregular post-LASIK corneal surface. This gradient in mechanical properties allows simultaneous achievement of shape conformity and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering comprises a composite structure with a central opaque region and a peripheral transparent region, each with different optical and mechanical properties. The composite design allows the central region to provide structural support while the peripheral region adapts to the corneal contour, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and conformability.
2Shape
If a soft covering is applied to the cornea, then the covering conforms to the corneal surface, but it provides insufficient structural support to accelerate healing
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is designed with spatially varying rigidity: the central region has higher rigidity to maintain optical quality and structural support, while the peripheral region has lower rigidity to conform to the irregular post-LASIK corneal surface. This gradient in mechanical properties allows simultaneous achievement of shape conformity and structural integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If a covering with uniform rigidity is applied, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but it cannot simultaneously provide optimal structural support and conformability
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is designed with spatially varying rigidity: the central region has higher rigidity to maintain optical quality and structural support, while the peripheral region has lower rigidity to conform to the irregular post-LASIK corneal surface. This gradient in mechanical properties allows simultaneous achievement of shape conformity and structural integrity.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the covering remains stationary on the cornea, then it provides stable optical correction, but it does not allow for natural corneal movement and healing
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral region of the covering is designed with lower rigidity to allow dynamic adaptation to corneal movements and shape changes during the healing process. This dynamic flexibility enables the covering to maintain stable optical correction in the central region while accommodating natural corneal dynamics at the periphery, thereby supporting both stability and healing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing faster visual and functional recovery of patients following refractive surgery such as laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is disclosed. The method comprises providing a covering to the eye of a patient comprising an inner portion having an inner rigidity and at least one inner radius of curvature; and an outer portion having an outer rigidity and at least one outer radius of curvature; wherein the inner rigidity is greater than the outer rigidity.