Intraocular Lens Loading Device Plunger Folding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for loading flexible intraocular lenses into injection cartridges are complex and require manual handling for folding, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A loading device with a tubular element and plunger mechanism that allows for the gradual folding of the lens into a cartridge, using a supporting element and braking means to secure the lens in a non-folded state and facilitate its insertion into the cartridge, eliminating the need for manual handling of the cartridge during folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling is used to fold the lens into the cartridge, then the lens can be folded, but the process becomes cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service operation where the plunger mechanism automatically folds the lens into the cartridge without requiring manual handling. The operator simply actuates the plunger, and the lens is progressively folded and loaded into the cartridge autonomously, eliminating cumbersome manual steps while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the lens-cartridge system. Instead of directly manually folding the lens, the operator actuates the plunger which then mediates the folding process by progressively pushing the lens through the folding section into the cartridge, simplifying the operation while improving efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If a complex device with multiple components is used for loading, then the lens can be loaded into the cartridge, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure. The tubular element combines the receiving section, folding section, and cartridge housing into one component. The plunger integrates the folding action and loading function, eliminating the need for separate manual folding steps and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubular element is segmented into functional zones: a receiving section for the non-folded lens, a folding section with truncated geometry to guide progressive folding, and a cartridge receiving area. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining an overall simple and integrated device structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a device for loading a flexible intraocular lens into an injection cartridge capable of serving as a packaging support, an injection cartridge and a set formed by said loading device and an injection cartridge. The loading device comprises a tubular element (1) having an internal passage (10), said passage comprising a receiving section (11), an intermediate truncated folding section (12) and an end section (13) capable of receiving an injection cartridge detachably, a supporting element (3) mounted in said receiving section, capable of supporting a lens in a non-folded state, and a plunger (5) capable of pushing a lens (9) positioned in the receiving section through the truncated intermediate folding section to fold said lens gradually, then in the receiving chamber of an injection cartridge placed in the end section.