Packaging-Integrated IOL Cartridge for Dial-Driven Folding and Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraocular lens (IOL) delivery systems face challenges in efficiently storing, shipping, and attaching a drive mechanism handpiece to a manually actuated IOL cartridge, often leading to potential errors, waste, and inefficiencies in the IOL delivery process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an IOL cartridge with a dial that manually rotates to fold the IOL and unlock the cartridge from packaging, allowing attachment to various handpieces with a universal interface, including disposable and reusable mechanisms, ensuring streamlined and error-free IOL delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the IOL cartridge is pre-loaded and stored in packaging, then the IOL is protected and ready for use, but the cartridge cannot be removed from packaging or the IOL cannot be folded before delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging is pre-configured with a dial mechanism that, when rotated, automatically performs the IOL folding action and simultaneously releases the cartridge from packaging. This preliminary arrangement of mechanical components ensures that the protective function is maintained until the precise moment of delivery, when both folding and release occur together through pre-planned mechanical interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the rotation of the dial as a self-service mechanism where the user's simple rotational action automatically triggers the IOL folding process and the cartridge release from packaging without requiring separate manual operations. The mechanical linkage between the dial, IOL folding mechanism, and packaging release system enables one action to serve multiple functions.
2Productivity
If a separate bay is loaded into the insertion tool, then the IOL can be delivered, but additional steps and potential for error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the IOL storage bay and the insertion tool into a single integrated cartridge assembly that is pre-configured before delivery. The bay, IOL, folding mechanism, and release system are combined into one unit that attaches directly to the insertion tool, eliminating the need for separate loading steps and reducing the opportunity for assembly errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is pre-loaded with the IOL in the bay before delivery, performing the loading action in advance during manufacturing or packaging. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex intra-operative loading procedures and reduces the number of steps the surgeon must perform.
3Ease of operation
If the dial is rotated to fold the IOL, then the IOL is properly configured for delivery, but the cartridge remains locked in packaging
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism and folding mechanism are merged into a single dial operation. The dial simultaneously controls both the IOL folding action and the release of the locking mechanism that secures the cartridge to packaging. This integration means the same rotational motion that folds the IOL also triggers the release, eliminating the need for separate unlocking steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically release as a result of the dial rotation used for folding the IOL. The mechanical linkage converts the folding motion into the unlocking action, allowing the system to serve itself by using the primary operational motion (folding) to automatically perform the secondary function (release).
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for storing and/or shipping an intraocular lens (IOL) cartridge are provided. A system comprises the IOL cartridge. The IOL cartridge comprises a nozzle and a compartment comprising an IOL. The nozzle is in fluid communication with the compartment. The IOL cartridge further comprises a dial disposed adjacent to the compartment, wherein an inner surface of the dial is exposed to the compartment. The dial is configured to fold the IOL upon rotation of the dial. The IOL cartridge further comprises a plunger case in fluid communication with the compartment, wherein a plunger is movably disposed within the plunger case. The IOL cartridge is configured to removably attach to a handpiece. The system further comprises a packaging comprising a base, wherein the IOL cartridge is disposed within the base; a first removable cover configured to cover a first portion of the IOL cartridge; and a second removable cover configured to cover a second portion of the IOL cartridge, wherein the second removable cover is locked in place by the dial when the dial is in a non-rotated position.