Interchangeable Intraocular Lens Locking for Decentration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intraocular lenses (IOLs) face challenges in maintaining proper positioning and stability within the capsular bag, leading to issues such as decentration, tilt, and undesirable photic phenomena like glint and posterior capsular opacification, which can affect vision quality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part IOL design featuring a base with haptics and a ring, combined with an optic that includes sidewalls and tabs for secure seating, utilizing a locking mechanism to prevent decentration and tilt, and allowing for interchangeable optics to address varying patient needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional single-piece IOL is used, then the structure is simple, but the lens may decenter, tilt, or cause photic phenomena like glint and posterior capsular opacification
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL is divided into multiple functional components: a base portion with haptics for capsular bag engagement, an optic for light refraction, and a locking mechanism with tabs and grooves. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together to prevent decentration and tilt.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is nested within the overall IOL structure, where tabs on the optic engage with grooves on the base, creating an integrated assembly that maintains positional stability without requiring a completely separate stabilization system.
2Reliability
If a multi-part IOL with locking mechanism is used, then positioning stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the basic IOL components rather than being a separate addition. The tabs are formed as integral parts of the optic, and the grooves are formed as integral parts of the base, combining the stabilization function with the structural elements already present in the IOL.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates passively through the natural interaction between tabs and grooves during IOL implantation and positioning. The geometry of the tabs and grooves automatically provides the locking action without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed optics are used in IOL, then the device structure is simplified, but adaptability to changing visual needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL is designed as separable components with the optic able to be detached from and reattached to the base. The locking mechanism allows for controlled separation and reassembly, enabling optic replacement while maintaining the overall IOL structure and capsular bag positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The base with its locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, maintains capsular bag positioning through haptics, and enables optic interchangeability. This universal base design can accommodate different optic types to meet varying visual needs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the IOL allows optic exchange, then adaptability to visual needs is improved, but the risk of displacement or malfunction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tabs and grooves are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide directional locking. The tabs have specific shapes that fit into corresponding grooves, allowing easy insertion in the correct orientation while preventing removal or displacement in other directions, thus ensuring reliable locking during normal eye movements.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-part intraocular lens (IOL) with an interchangeable optic seated on a base and secured by a locking mechanism. The optic comprises an anterior surface with a diameter greater than a diameter of a ring of the base. The posterior side of the optic has a posterior surface, a transition region for contact with the base, and sidewalls and tabs radially outward of the transition region. The sidewalls and tabs overlap at least a portion of the ring to reduce or even prevent decentration and tilt of the optic. Each tab has a lateral extension for coupling to the base.