Micro-incision IOL with Recessed Protrusions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional intraocular lenses (IOLs) require large incisions for implantation, which increases surgical complexity, recovery time, and patient discomfort, whereas compact IOLs capable of insertion through micro-incisions are needed to reduce these issues.

Innovation Solution

The design includes a compact optic with soft and deformable haptics that can be folded or rolled for insertion through small incisions, featuring a diffractive surface and recesses with protrusions for secure attachment to the capsular bag, allowing the optic to be maintained under tension for structural integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If conventional IOL designs are used, then the IOL can be implanted in the eye, but the incision size must be large (3.0-12 mm) which increases surgical complexity and recovery time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveincision sizeVSAvoidsurgical complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The IOL is divided into separate functional components: a compact optic element and flexible haptic arms that can be independently inserted and assembled within the eye. This segmentation allows each component to be small enough for micro-incision insertion while maintaining the overall functionality of the complete IOL structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The IOL components are designed to be nested or folded into a compact configuration for insertion through micro-incisions, then deployed to their functional shape inside the eye. The haptics can be folded back against the optic, and the entire assembly can be compressed into a small profile suitable for small incisions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Length of moving object

If the IOL is made compact for micro-incision insertion, then incision size is reduced, but the IOL must be folded or rolled which may compromise structural integrity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveincision sizeVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The IOL haptics are constructed from flexible, thin-film materials that can be repeatedly folded and compressed without permanent deformation or structural failure. This flexibility allows the IOL to be compacted for micro-incision insertion while maintaining the integrity of the haptic structure for proper post-implantation function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The IOL is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to transition between compact and deployed states. The haptics possess elastic properties enabling them to be compressed during insertion and then spring back to their functional configuration inside the eye, maintaining structural integrity throughout the transformation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Length of moving object

If the IOL optic is made thin for compact insertion, then the IOL profile is reduced for micro-incision insertion, but the optic may lack sufficient structural integrity

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIOL profileVSAvoidoptic structural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The optic is constructed using composite material structures that provide high strength-to-thickness ratios. These composite structures enable the optic to be extremely thin for compact insertion while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to withstand insertion forces and maintain proper optical function after deployment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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

This approach enables IOLs to be implanted through micro-incisions, reducing surgical complexity and recovery time, while maintaining optical functionality and structural integrity, thus enhancing patient safety and comfort.

Implementation Method 1

At least one of the surfaces may include a diffractive surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Data Source

PatentEP2967841B1Micro-incision IOL and positioning of the IOL in the eye
Publication Date: 2023.01.04 AMO GRONINGEN
  • EP2967841B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2967841B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP2967841B1 patent drawingFigure 2C~3B

AI summary

An intraocular lens (200) that is capable of being inserted through a micro-incision includes an optic (205) having an anterior (207a) and a posterior (207b) surface and a plurality of projections (210a/b, 212a/ b, 215a/b, 217a/b) extending from the anterior and posterior surfaces. The anterior and posterior surfaces include a recess (211). The optic is implanted such that a rim of the capsulorhexis is disposed in the recess such that the plurality of projections grip the capsular bag (145).