Intraocular Lens Injector Plunger Tip Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraocular lens (IOL) injectors face issues with IOL components becoming stuck or damaged due to poor technique or training, leading to inefficiencies in the surgical placement of IOLs during cataract surgery.
Innovation Solution
A modular IOL system with a specialized injector featuring a plunger tip with arms that change configuration to reduce the profile of the IOL component, preventing it from getting stuck and ensuring smooth delivery through a micro incision, along with a modular design allowing separate components to be injected and assembled within the eye.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional injector design is used to deliver IOL components, then the injection process is simple, but the IOL component may become stuck or damaged during delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger tip features flexible arms that dynamically change configuration from expanded (in the cartridge) to contracted (during injection through the nozzle). This dynamic transformation allows the arms to adapt to different spatial constraints, preventing the IOL component from becoming stuck while maintaining structural integrity during delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible arms are designed to nest within the tapered lumen of the nozzle during the injection process. The arms contract and align with the nozzle wall, creating a nested configuration that guides the IOL component through the micro-incision without obstruction or damage.
2Length of moving object
If the IOL component is delivered through a micro incision, then the surgical incision size is reduced, but the IOL component may get stuck in the injector
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible arms dynamically contract as they pass through the tapered nozzle, reducing their profile to match the micro-incision dimensions. This dynamic size adaptation enables smooth passage through the small incision without getting stuck.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger tip incorporates flexible arms that can bend and deform to conform to the narrow passage of the micro-incision. This flexibility allows the arms to navigate the tight space without rigid obstruction, ensuring smooth IOL delivery.
3Volume of moving object
If the IOL component is compressed to reduce profile for injection, then the injection through micro incision is enabled, but the IOL component may become damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible arms provide dynamic support during compression, adapting their configuration to protect the IOL component while enabling profile reduction. The arms compress in a controlled manner that maintains IOL integrity rather than causing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible arms are positioned to contact and support the IOL component before and during the compression process. This beforehand cushioning prevents direct contact between the rigid nozzle wall and the IOL component, protecting it from damage while enabling profile reduction for micro-incision injection.
Data Source
AI summary
An intraocular lens system may include a base that may include an annular body, an opening extending through the annular body in an axial direction of the annular body, and a recess extending circumferentially about the opening. The system also may include a lens that may be insertable into and removable from the recess. The lens may include a central optic, a first tab protruding radially away from the central optic, and a second tab protruding radially away from the central optic. The second tab may be more resistant to compression in a radial direction than the first tab. The first tab may include a first arm protruding radially away from the central optic, a second arm protruding radially away from the central optic and extending away from the first arm, and a third arm extending from the first arm to the second arm. Movement of one or more of the first, second, and third arms may result in deformation of the first tab.