Ocular Implant 3D Printing with Real-Time Camera Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for refractive treatment of the eye, such as ocular implants, lack precision and adaptability in shaping and structuring implants to accurately correct refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a 3D printer, camera, and computer is used to create ocular implants by depositing and shaping biocompatible materials according to a predefined pattern, with real-time monitoring and adjustment to ensure precise refractive correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional ocular implant methods are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the manufacturing precision and adaptability are insufficient to accurately correct refractive errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing images of the target substrate before printing and pre-calculating the printer head movements and material deposition parameters based on the captured image data. This allows the system to compensate for substrate irregularities and achieve precise implant shaping while maintaining efficient manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using a camera to capture images of the printed implant during or after the printing process, comparing the actual printed structure with the intended design pattern, and making real-time or post-processing adjustments to the manufacturing instructions. This feedback mechanism ensures high manufacturing precision by correcting deviations from the desired implant geometry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current ocular implant methods are used, then the manufacturing process is straightforward, but the adaptability to individual eye needs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by capturing images of the target substrate to identify local variations and irregularities, then adjusting the printing parameters specifically for each location on the substrate. This allows the implant to be customized with varying material deposition, density, or structure at different locations to match the specific refractive needs of the individual eye, while the automated image-based system maintains manufacturing efficiency.
3Shape
If traditional printing methods are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the ability to create tailored external shapes and internal structures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing images of the target substrate before printing and pre-calculating the printer head movements and material deposition parameters based on the captured image data. This allows the system to compensate for substrate irregularities and achieve precise implant shaping while maintaining efficient manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using a camera to capture images of the printed implant during or after the printing process, comparing the actual printed structure with the intended design pattern, and making real-time or post-processing adjustments to the manufacturing instructions. This feedback mechanism ensures high manufacturing precision by correcting deviations from the desired implant geometry.
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
The system enables the precise creation of ocular implants with tailored external shapes and internal structures, effectively correcting refractive errors and improving vision by adapting to individual eye needs.
Implementation Method 1
A camera is used to generate an image to monitor the printing of the material
Implementation Method 2
a pre-transformed material such as a powder material in a material bed is transformed by an energy beam
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A(1)~3B(2)
AI summary
In certain embodiments, a system for making an implant for an eye comprises a printer, a camera, and a computer. The printer prints material onto a target and has a printer head and printer controller. The printer head deposits the material onto the target, and the printer controller moves the printer head to deposit the material onto a specific location of the target. The camera generates an image to monitor the printing of the material. The computer stores a pattern for the implant, which is designed to provide refractive treatment for the eye; sends instructions to the printer controller to move the printer head to print the material onto the target according to the pattern; assesses the image from the camera according to the pattern; and adjusts the instructions in response to the image.