Intraocular Lens Folding Mechanism for Sterile Preloaded Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraocular lens (IOL) injectors struggle with folding complex designs, such as those with hollow bases, and manual loading methods risk damage and contamination during the folding process.
Innovation Solution
A folding device with levers and actuators that apply forces to the haptics and edges of the IOL to fold it into a delivery configuration, ensuring sterility and compatibility with various IOL designs, including those with hollow bases, and can be preloaded to prevent contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual loading and folding methods are used, then the device structure can be simple, but the risk of damage and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL folding device performs self-loading and self-folding through an automated mechanism. The injector automatically loads the IOL into the folding chamber and then uses a rotating cam mechanism with levers to fold the IOL into a compact configuration, eliminating the need for manual handling by the surgeon and thereby reducing the risk of contamination and damage while maintaining relatively simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary loading of the IOL into the folding chamber before the actual folding operation. The IOL is loaded in a sterile state and then automatically folded by the cam-driven lever mechanism, preparing it for injection in advance. This preliminary automated action ensures sterility is maintained and prevents damage that could occur during manual folding operations
2Reliability
If automated folding mechanisms are used, then the risk of damage and contamination is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a cam mechanism as an intermediary between the motor drive and the IOL folding action. The cam rotates and interacts with levers that are positioned against the IOL, translating rotational motion into the precise folding movements needed. This intermediary mechanism automates the folding process reliably while keeping the overall device structure manageable through mechanical advantage rather than complex electronic controls
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism is segmented into multiple independent levers, each responsible for folding a specific portion of the IOL (haptics, optic, or base). The cam mechanism sequentially actuates these levers to achieve complete folding. This segmentation allows the complex folding task to be divided into manageable steps, reducing the overall device complexity while maintaining high reliability through automated control
3Device complexity
If the IOL is folded manually, then the device structure can be simpler, but the precision and control during folding are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism uses a dynamic cam-driven lever system that provides precise control over the folding process. The cam rotates to sequentially actuate different levers at controlled moments, ensuring each portion of the IOL is folded with precise timing and force. This dynamic mechanical control achieves high folding precision while maintaining a relatively simple device structure compared to electronic control systems
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 device efficiently folds IOLs into a delivery configuration without damage, maintaining sterility and reducing user error, allowing for safe and precise implantation.
Implementation Method 1
a first lever disposed within the folding body and adapted to contact and apply force against the first haptic of the IOL, a second lever disposed within the folding body and adapted to contact and apply force against the second haptic of the IOL, a third lever disposed within the folding body and adapted to contact and apply force against the first edge of the IOL base, and a fourth lever disposed within the folding body and adapted to contact and apply force against the second edge of the IOL base
Data Source
AI summary
Intraocular lens (IOL) folding devices and methods of folding an IOL or components thereof are disclosed.