Laser-Modified GRIN Layers in Polymeric IOLs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intraocular lenses (IOLs) often require post-operative corrective measures due to measurement errors, variable positioning, or wound healing issues, as their refractive power is fixed and cannot be adjusted post-implantation, leading to suboptimal vision without additional corrective lenses.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a laser to create gradient index (GRIN) layers in polymeric lens materials, allowing for in-situ modification of refractive properties by forming refractive structures with varying refractive indices using femtosecond laser pulses, enabling adjustment of lens power and shape to correct vision aberrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed power IOL is implanted, then the surgical procedure is simple and quick, but the patient requires additional corrective lenses due to inability to adjust refractive power post-implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static, fixed-power IOL into a dynamic system where the refractive power can be adjusted post-implantation. The IOL incorporates a light-sensitive polymer matrix with refraction modulating composition that undergoes polymerization when exposed to UV light, causing the lens power to change dynamically based on light exposure patterns applied after surgery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the refractive index of the IOL material through controlled polymerization. The refraction modulating composition changes the physical-chemical state of the polymer matrix upon UV exposure, thereby altering the refractive power parameter of the lens without requiring physical replacement or mechanical adjustment
2Reliability
If post-operative corrective lenses are prescribed, then optimal vision can be achieved, but the patient experiences reduced quality of life due to dependency on additional lenses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the IOL to automatically adjust its own refractive power in response to light exposure. The lens performs self-correction of refractive errors through photo-induced polymerization of the refraction modulating composition, eliminating the need for external corrective lenses and allowing the patient to achieve optimal vision without dependency on additional optical devices
3Adaptability or versatility
If a light-adjustable IOL with RMC is used, then refractive power can be modified post-implantation, but the lens requires complex polymerization process and time-dependent diffusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-incorporating the refraction modulating composition into the polymer matrix during manufacturing, preparing the lens in advance for post-implantation adjustment. The RMC is distributed throughout the matrix beforehand, ready to undergo polymerization and refractive index change when exposed to UV light after surgery, eliminating the need for complex in-situ material synthesis
4Manufacturing precision
If RMC components diffuse throughout the lens material, then refractive index can be uniformly modified, but the process is time-dependent and requires repeated exposure cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by maintaining the RMC in a ready-state within the polymer matrix that can undergo continuous or repeated polymerization cycles without interruption. The system allows for progressive adjustment of refractive power through multiple UV exposure sessions, with the RMC continuously available to polymerize and modify the refractive index uniformly throughout the lens material over time
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 the creation of customizable refractive structures within IOLs that can be adjusted post-surgery to correct vision errors, enhancing the depth of field and allowing for multifocal capabilities, thereby reducing the need for additional corrective lenses.
Implementation Method 1
the intensity of light within the focal volume will cause a nonlinear absorption of photons (typically multi-photon absorption) and lead to a change in the refractive index of the material within the focal volume
Implementation Method 2
nonlinear absorption of photons (typically multi-photon absorption)
Implementation Method 3
focusing a plurality of very short laser pulses having a defined focal volume
Data Source
AI summary
A method for modifying the refractive index of an optical polymeric material. The method comprises continuously irradiating predetermined regions of an optical, polymeric material with femtosecond laser pulses to form a gradient index refractive structure within the material. The optical polymeric material can include a photosensitizer to increase the photoefficiency of the two-photo process resulting in the formation of the observed refractive structures. An optical device includes an optical, polymeric lens material having an anterior surface and posterior surface and an optical axis intersecting the surfaces and at least one laser-modified, GRIN layer disposed between the anterior surface and the posterior surface and arranged along a first axis 45° to 90° to the optical axis. The at least one laser-modified GRIN layer comprises a plurality of adjacent refractive segments characterized by a variation in index of refraction across at least one of at least a portion of the adjacent segments and along each segment.