Retractable IOL Cartridge Cap for Integrated Lens Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraocular lens (IOL) delivery systems lack efficient mechanisms for folding and delivering IOLs during cataract surgery, often leading to potential user errors and inconsistent handling of different drive mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An IOL cartridge with a retractable cap that folds the IOL upon retraction, featuring a folding mechanism with edge rollers and compression arms, allowing integration with various handpieces having manual or electric drive mechanisms, ensuring proper IOL configuration for delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retractable cap mechanism is added to fold the IOL, then the reliability of IOL delivery is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cap retraction function with the IOL folding function into a single integrated mechanism. The cap's distal end includes a folding mechanism with actuators that automatically fold the IOL as the cap is retracted, eliminating the need for separate folding and cap retraction operations. This merging reduces overall system complexity while ensuring reliable IOL delivery through standardized integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The IOL folding action is performed automatically as a byproduct of cap retraction. The folding mechanism is passively actuated by the cap's movement, requiring no additional energy input or separate actuation system. The cap's retraction force itself drives the folding actuators, making the system self-sufficient and reducing complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the nozzle is positioned within the cap, then the IOL is protected during storage, but the nozzle must be exposed during delivery requiring additional manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the nozzle exposure function with cap retraction. As the cap is retracted to expose the nozzle for IOL delivery, the folding mechanism simultaneously folds the IOL. This combined action eliminates separate steps for nozzle exposure and IOL preparation, improving ease of operation during delivery while maintaining protection during storage when the cap is in the extended position.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different drive mechanisms are used in handpieces, then versatility is improved, but consistency in operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed with a standardized interface and integrated folding mechanism that works consistently with various handpiece drive mechanisms (manual, electric, etc.). The cap retraction and IOL folding functions are built into the cartridge itself, making the system universally compatible while maintaining consistent operation regardless of the handpiece type used.
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
Ensures streamlined and error-free IOL delivery by integrating folding with cap retraction, enabling compatibility with diverse drive mechanisms and maintaining a standardized interface for ease of use and uniformity across different types of IOLs.
Implementation Method 1
The cap may include internal ramps that convert retraction of the cap to actuation of the folding mechanism actuators
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for removably attaching a drive mechanism handpiece to an intraocular lens (IOL) cartridge that folds the IOL upon retraction of a cap, are provided. The IOL cartridge comprises a nozzle and a compartment configured to receive an IOL. The nozzle is in fluid communication with the compartment. The IOL cartridge also includes a retractable cap that covers the nozzle and the compartment. The retractable cap is configured to expose the nozzle and fold the IOL upon retraction of the retractable cap. The IOL cartridge may also include a plunger case that is in fluid communication with the compartment, wherein a plunger is movably disposed within the plunger case.