Thin Film Nanocrystal ICs on 3D Ophthalmic Inserts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ophthalmic Devices face challenges in providing reliable and compact energization solutions for active components, particularly in three-dimensional environments, where traditional methods struggle to efficiently integrate and power semiconductor devices within the device's unique topology and size constraints.
Innovation Solution
The integration of thin film nanocrystal transistors and integrated circuit devices within Three-dimensionally Formed Media Inserts, utilizing electrochemical cells and conductive traces made of materials like indium tin oxide, connected to hydrogel encapsulants, to create a compact and efficient energization system for Ophthalmic Devices, including active optical elements and pressure-sensitive switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional passive ophthalmic devices are used, then device simplicity and biocompatibility are maintained, but active functionality and energy-powered components cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ophthalmic device into separate functional modules: a media insert containing the energization element and circuit board, and the main ophthalmic device body. This segmentation allows active functionality to be added without making the entire device complex, as the active components are isolated in a removable insert that can be manufactured and tested independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the circuit board and energization element within a media insert that is itself embedded in the ophthalmic device. The circuit board is positioned within the insert, and the energization element is coupled to the circuit board, creating a nested structure that integrates active components into the existing device form factor without significantly increasing overall complexity.
2Power
If energization elements and circuit components are added to provide active functionality, then power and control capabilities are improved, but the compact size and reliability of the device are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible circuit board with conductive traces that can be conformally deposited on the insert structure. This flexible approach allows the circuit to be integrated into the compact media insert without requiring rigid, space-consuming circuit boards, thereby maintaining power capability while minimizing volume increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension by positioning the circuit board within the depth of the media insert and using vertical stacking arrangements for the energization element and circuit components. This dimensional approach allows multiple components to coexist in a compact volume by utilizing space in the vertical direction rather than only horizontal expansion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If semiconductor devices are embedded in the ophthalmic device, then active components and circuit functions are achieved, but the reliability and biocompatibility in the challenging lens environment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the media insert as an intermediary structure between the semiconductor devices and the ophthalmic device environment. The insert provides a protected housing that isolates the circuit board and energization element from direct exposure to the challenging lens environment, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling circuit functionality. The insert acts as a barrier that prevents environmental degradation of the electronic components.
4Power
If compact energization elements are used to maintain device size, then power density is improved, but the complexity of integration and manufacturing precision are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-assembles the circuit board and energization element within the media insert before integrating the insert into the main ophthalmic device. This preliminary assembly allows the compact components to be tested and positioned correctly within the constrained space of the insert, reducing the precision requirements for the final integration step. The insert serves as a pre-fabricated module that simplifies the overall manufacturing process despite the compact size of internal components.
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 solution enables reliable and compact energization of Ophthalmic Devices, allowing for the integration of active components and optical adjustments, while maintaining the device's optical quality and therapeutic functionalities, enhancing the device's functionality and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The first energization element may comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells
Implementation Method 2
a hydrogel material, wherein the hydrogel material may be capable of surrounding or encapsulating the first Media Insert
Data Source
AI summary
This invention discloses methods and apparatus to form Thin Film Nanocrystal Integrated Circuit transistors upon Three-dimensionally Formed Insert Pieces. In some embodiments, the present invention includes incorporating the Three-dimensional Surfaces with Thin Film Nanocrystal Integrated Circuit based thin film transistors, electrical interconnects, and energization elements into an Insert Piece for incorporation into Ophthalmic Device. In some embodiments, the Insert Piece may be directly used as a Media Insert or incorporated into an Ophthalmic Device.