IOL Folding Device for Sterile Multi-Piece Lens Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IOL delivery systems face challenges in efficiently and sterily delivering multi-piece IOLs, particularly those with hollow bases, due to complex geometry and potential for user error and contamination during manual folding and installation.
Innovation Solution
The development of an IOL injector with a folding device that applies symmetric opposing forces to fold IOLs, maintaining the center of mass and ensuring the IOL remains sterile, using a self-contained mechanism that can handle both one-piece and multi-piece lenses, including those with hollow bases, by integrating an IOL folding device within the injector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual folding and installation of multi-piece IOLs is performed, then the IOL can be delivered through a small incision, but the risk of user error and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL folding device automatically folds the IOL components using a folding element that moves between engaged and disengaged positions, eliminating the need for manual folding by the surgeon. The device performs the folding action itself through mechanical automation, ensuring consistent and sterile operation without human intervention in the critical folding step.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the IOL components and the delivery system. It temporarily holds and manipulates the base and optic during the folding process, ensuring proper alignment and folding while preventing direct contact between the surgeon's hands and the sterile IOL components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex geometry IOLs with hollow bases are delivered manually, then customization is possible, but the complexity of the delivery process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding device is designed with a universal folding element that can accommodate various IOL geometries including hollow bases, one-piece designs, and multi-piece configurations. The same folding mechanism handles different IOL types through consistent engagement with the base structure, eliminating the need for specialized manual techniques for each geometry type.
3Reliability
If automated folding mechanism is integrated, then sterility and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding element is nested within the injector body structure, with the folding chamber integrated into the existing delivery system. The folding element moves within a confined space defined by the injector housing, allowing automated folding functionality to be incorporated without significantly increasing the external dimensions or overall structural complexity of the delivery device.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An intraocular lens (IOL) folding device is described.