Ophthalmological Implant Coded Point Grid Traceability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ophthalmological implants, such as intraocular lenses, face challenges in traceability and identification post-implantation due to the difficulty in visually accessing markings outside the optically effective zone, which can lead to mix-ups and product recalls, and existing solutions are complex and require additional manufacturing steps or biocompatible dyes.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmological implant with a machine-readable coded point grid made of marking points arranged within the optically effective zone, utilizing a pseudo-random irregular pattern to minimize grating diffraction effects, allowing for clear and complete product identification and verification using a machine reading system, even in the implanted state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a marking is placed outside the optically effective zone for identification, then product identification is enabled, but the marking becomes visually inaccessible in the implanted state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface marking to three-dimensional subsurface marking by embedding the coded marker within the optically imaging element itself. This allows the marking to remain accessible through the lens while avoiding the iris blockage issue of external markings.
Solution Approach 2:
The coded marker is nested within the optically imaging element, specifically embedded in the lens material. This nested structure allows the identification marking to be contained within the functional optical component, making it accessible for reading while maintaining the integrity of the external marking surface.
2Loss of information
If a laser-engraved matrix code is applied to the haptic, then product identification is achieved, but additional laser system and manufacturing complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single coded marker design that serves multiple functions: it provides product identification, acts as an alignment aid, and enables traceability. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate laser engraving systems and multiple marking steps.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex laser-engraved matrix codes, the patent employs a simplified coded marker that can be replicated through standard injection molding processes. This copying approach uses a master code design that is replicated in the lens material, avoiding the need for complex laser systems.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If fluorescent dye or absorbing dye is used for marking, then visual accessibility is improved, but additional biocompatible dye and complex fluorescence system are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the need for fluorescent or absorbing dyes by using a coded marker that is directly visible in the visible light spectrum. The marker uses contrast elements that can be read with standard optical instruments, eliminating the requirement for complex fluorescence excitation and detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex and expensive fluorescent dyes, the patent employs a simple coded marker structure that can be manufactured cost-effectively through injection molding. The marker uses basic contrast elements rather than specialized fluorescent materials, reducing both cost and system complexity.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a toric mark is placed in the 4.4 mm region for alignment, then visual accessibility is achieved, but the marking area is reduced for identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the marking function into two distinct components: the toric mark for alignment and the coded marker for identification. These are positioned to work together without interfering with each other, allowing both alignment and identification functions to be fulfilled simultaneously in the optimal location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the alignment function and identification function into a single integrated marking system. The toric mark and coded marker are combined in a way that allows both functions to be performed using the same marking location and optical access path, maximizing the utilization of the available marking area.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an ophthalmological implant (100) with an optically imaging element (110), a digital product identifier (130) being arranged on the optically imaging element. The invention additionally relates to a corresponding method for producing the implant and to a machine reading system (200) for detecting and decoding the digital product identifier. The aim of the invention is to provide an ophthalmological implant and a method for producing same, said method allowing a unique and complete product identifier and a check thereof using simple means at any point in time. This is achieved by an ophthalmological implant with a digital product identifier (130) which is implemented by means of an encoded point grid (135) of identifier points (57), said point grid being machine-readable in the visible light range and having one irregular semi-random character.