IOL Packaging System with Push-Rod Transfer Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for handling and loading intraocular lenses (IOLs) into cartridges are cumbersome, requiring manual dexterity and risk damaging the lenses or compromising their sterility, especially when removing them from packaging and folding them for insertion.
Innovation Solution
A packaging system comprising a tray with a push-rod and lock mechanism that allows controlled movement and secure transfer of the IOL into a cartridge without the need for forceps, maintaining sterility and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual forceps are used to remove and fold the IOL, then the IOL can be transferred to the cartridge, but the risk of damage and sterility compromise increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sterile barrier film is introduced as an intermediary between the non-sterile external environment and the sterile IOL. The film remains intact during cartridge assembly, allowing the IOL to be transferred without direct contact with non-sterile surfaces or instruments. The film is only breached at the moment of IOL deployment into the eye, maintaining sterility throughout the preparation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system is designed to be self-sterilizing and self-maintaining. The sterile barrier film creates a closed sterile environment that protects the IOL without requiring external sterile handling. The system maintains its own sterility through the sealed packaging design, eliminating the need for forceps or other external instruments that could compromise sterility.
2Productivity
If the IOL is manually folded and loaded into the cartridge, then the IOL can be prepared for insertion, but the complexity and skill requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The IOL is pre-positioned on a sterile platform within the sealed packaging, and the cartridge is pre-assembled with all necessary components before sterilization. The sterile barrier film is pre-configured to guide the IOL automatically when the cartridge is activated, eliminating the need for manual folding and complex manipulation during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system automatically performs the folding and loading functions through its mechanical design. When the cartridge is activated, the sterile barrier film breaks in a controlled manner, and the IOL is automatically guided and folded into the correct position within the cartridge without requiring external manipulation or surgical skill.
3Ease of operation
If the IOL is handled extensively during unpacking and loading, then it can be transferred to the cartridge, but the risk of damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sterile barrier film serves as a protective intermediary that supports the IOL during transfer. The IOL remains in contact with the sterile film rather than with external instruments or surfaces, minimizing mechanical stress and damage risk. The film's structural properties provide gentle support that protects the delicate IOL throughout the transfer process.
Solution Approach 2:
All necessary manipulations are performed on the packaging system itself before the IOL is exposed. The cartridge is pre-assembled, pre-sterilized, and pre-configured with the sterile barrier film in place. When activated, the system performs a single controlled motion that transfers the IOL without requiring multiple handling steps or extensive manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A lens and cartridge packaging system and method of use which simplify the removal and transfer of an IOL to an IOL insertion device is disclosed. The packaging system enables a user to easily load an IOL into a cartridge without the use of forceps. In addition, the packaging system also allows a user to fold and insert the IOL into a cartridge without damaging the IOL and/or compromising IOL sterility. In addition, the related methods of use minimize and/or eliminate damage to the IOL during unpackaging, folding, transfer and loading procedures.