Ophthalmic Lens Packaging with Flexible Edge Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packaging methods for ophthalmic lenses, especially the convex face, are prone to damage during storage and transport due to friction layers and ink markings, and existing solutions are either incompatible or difficult to implement.
Innovation Solution
A packaging system comprising a box with a support that holds the lens by its peripheral edge, featuring flexible portions that deform to keep the lens away from the cover, ensuring the convex face is protected without damaging the friction layer or ink markings, and allowing easy handling and reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a removable protective pad is glued to the convex face of the lens, then the convex face is protected against damage, but the ink markings on the convex face are removed along with the pad
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective cover made of flexible material that acts as an intermediary between the external environment and the lens surface. This cover protects the convex face without requiring direct contact with the lens, thus preserving both the face and the ink markings. The cover can be placed over the lens without adhering to it, eliminating the problem of ink removal while maintaining protection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If each ophthalmic lens is placed individually in a protective box, then the lens is protected from damage, but the lens must be maintained in a fixed position to prevent friction damage to the convex face
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible protective cover that can adapt to the lens shape and provide protection without requiring complex rigid structures. This flexible shell approach simplifies the packaging system while maintaining effective protection, eliminating the need for complex positioning mechanisms or rigid fixtures that would increase device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a friction layer is formed on the lens face to prevent sliding during trimming, then the lens holding is improved, but the friction layer is vulnerable to damage during storage and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover serves as an intermediary layer that shields the friction layer from external damage during storage and transport. Since the cover does not require direct contact with the lens surface, it protects the friction layer while maintaining the lens's functional properties for trimming operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively protects the ophthalmic lens and any friction layer or ink markings, facilitating easy handling and reuse, while preventing damage during storage and transport.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible portion which is located close to the peripheral edge of the lens carried by the support. This flexible portion extends in the direction of the lid when the closed box contains the support with the lens, with a length of the flexible portion which is adapted so that the closed lid bends it by pressure.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2a
Figure 2b~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a packaging for an ophthalmic lens (100) that comprises a box (200) and a lens holder (300) inside the closed box. The holder includes at least one flexible portion (305) that is bent by the lid (202) of the box when said lid is closed. The portion thus bent bears against a peripheral edge (B) of the lens in order to maintain said lens at a distance from the lid inside the box. A convex face (S1) of the lens in the box is thus protected against any damage.