High-Index, High-Abbe Polymer Compositions for Foldable IOLs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing materials for intraocular lenses lack a combination of high refractive index and Abbe number, leading to issues with friction during insertion and the need for improved optical characteristics, while also requiring flexibility for small incisions and internal lubricity.
Innovation Solution
A composition made by free radical polymerization of reactive monomer mixtures comprising cycloaliphatic, aromatic, and aliphatic (meth)acrylates, along with cross-linking agents, achieving a refractive index of at least 1.45 and an Abbe number of at least 39, suitable for forming flexible intraocular lenses that can be rolled or folded for small incisions, with internal lubricity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a high refractive index material is used to achieve thinner lens, then the lens thickness is reduced, but the friction during insertion increases and optical clarity deteriorates due to higher dispersion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully selecting and adjusting the refractive index and Abbe number of the polymer material. By optimizing these parameters to achieve a refractive index of at least 1.45 and an Abbe number of at least 39, the material simultaneously provides sufficient optical clarity and reduced dispersion while maintaining acceptable friction characteristics for insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by formulating a polymer composition that combines multiple components with complementary properties. The composition includes a polymer matrix with specific refractive index properties and incorporates lubricating components, resulting in a composite material that balances optical performance with reduced friction during insertion.
2Length of moving object
If a high refractive index material is used to achieve thinner lens, then the lens thickness is reduced, but the optical clarity deteriorates due to higher dispersion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully selecting and adjusting the refractive index and Abbe number of the polymer material. By optimizing these parameters to achieve a refractive index of at least 1.45 and an Abbe number of at least 39, the material simultaneously provides sufficient optical clarity and reduced dispersion while maintaining acceptable friction characteristics for insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by formulating a polymer composition that combines multiple components with complementary properties. The composition includes a polymer matrix with specific refractive index properties and incorporates lubricating components, resulting in a composite material that balances optical performance with reduced friction during insertion.
3Ease of operation
If the lens is made flexible to pass through small incision, then the ease of insertion is improved, but the friction during insertion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance - a lubricating component - that mediates between the lens material and the insertion environment. This lubricating component reduces the direct friction contact during insertion, allowing the flexible lens to pass through small incisions with reduced resistance and improved ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully selecting and adjusting the refractive index and Abbe number of the polymer material. By optimizing these parameters to achieve a refractive index of at least 1.45 and an Abbe number of at least 39, the material simultaneously provides sufficient optical clarity and reduced dispersion while maintaining acceptable friction characteristics for insertion.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional materials are used for intraocular lens, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the optical characteristics are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully selecting and adjusting the refractive index and Abbe number of the polymer material. By optimizing these parameters to achieve a refractive index of at least 1.45 and an Abbe number of at least 39, the material simultaneously provides sufficient optical clarity and reduced dispersion while maintaining acceptable friction characteristics for insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by formulating a polymer composition that combines multiple components with complementary properties. The composition includes a polymer matrix with specific refractive index properties and incorporates lubricating components, resulting in a composite material that balances optical performance with reduced friction during insertion.
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 composition provides flexible intraocular lenses with reduced friction during insertion, improved optical characteristics, and enhanced lubricity, enabling easier delivery through small incisions.
Implementation Method 1
a composition made by free radical polymerization of reactive monomer mixtures
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are co-polymers which are produced from reactive monomer mixtures and which have both high refractive index and a high Abbe number. These materials are well suited for use as implantable ophthalmic devices and have a refractive index which may be edited through application of energy. When used for an intraocular lens, the high refractive index allows for a thin lens which compresses to allow a small incision size.