Intraocular Lens Fixation via Projection-Recess Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Intraocular lenses often experience misalignment and displacement within the capsular bag during implantation, leading to refractive errors and potential need for corrective surgery, especially with toric lenses where precise alignment is crucial for astigmatism correction.

Innovation Solution

An intraocular lens with a radially symmetrical fixation device featuring a projection that forms a detachable connection with a corresponding recess in the capsular bag, providing a more precise and stable placement by reducing freedom of movement through a positive locking mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If holding elements are used to support the intraocular lens in the radially outer direction, then the lens is retained within the capsular bag, but the lens can still shift, tilt, and rotate within the capsular bag

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens retentionVSAvoidlens alignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation device is segmented into multiple functional zones: a support region with holding elements for radial support, a connection region with projection-recess interfaces for precise positioning, and a fixation region for anchoring to the capsular bag. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with others.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The projection-recess connection structure acts as an intermediary mechanism between the holding elements and the capsular bag fixation. It translates the rough radial support into precise positional alignment, mediating between the coarse holding function and the fine alignment requirement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If conventional holding elements are used, then the intraocular lens can be inserted into the capsular bag, but subsequent displacement and rotation occur leading to refractive errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens insertionVSAvoidlens position stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The projection-recess connection structure is pre-configured on the intraocular lens before insertion. This preliminary configuration ensures that as soon as the lens is inserted and the projection engages with the recess in the capsular bag, precise alignment is automatically established, preventing subsequent displacement and rotation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The projection features an asymmetric diameter profile with a smaller middle section and larger end sections. This asymmetric geometry creates a unique fit within the corresponding recess, preventing rotation and ensuring the lens maintains its correct orientation within the capsular bag.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Device complexity

If the projection diameter is uniform, then the structure is simple, but the connection with the recess cannot provide precise non-slip alignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection structureVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The projection exhibits local quality variations with different diameters in different regions: a smaller middle diameter for precise fit within the recess, and larger end diameters for structural strength and engagement. This local differentiation of dimensions allows the single projection structure to simultaneously achieve precision alignment and mechanical robustness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP2949291B1Intraocular lens and means for the production of a connection between an intraocular lens and a capsular bag of an eye
Publication Date: 2020.02.05 KIRSCH HINNERK
  • EP2949291B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2949291B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2949291B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

In order to enable precise, positionally accurate and slip-proof placement of an intraocular lens in a capsular bag of an eye, the present invention proposes that the intraocular lens has a fixing device for fixing the intraocular lens in a capsular bag of an eye, wherein the fixing device comprises a projection.