Powered IOL Delivery System with Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual IOL insertion systems face challenges in controlling the precise delivery force required for implanting intraocular lenses, especially through small ocular incisions, due to the temperature-dependent material properties of flexible acrylic IOLs and the need for two-handed operation, which can lead to difficulties in precision and efficiency during phacoemulsification surgery.
Innovation Solution
An automated IOL insertion system that uses a powered delivery force generator, controlled by a phacoemulsification system, to assess and translate insertion conditions into a desired force range, monitoring and adjusting the force in real-time to ensure safe and effective lens implantation, while also incorporating a heating mechanism to optimize IOL softness and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual insertion systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but precision of delivery force control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical insertion systems with an automated powered delivery system. The mechanical actuation is substituted with a motor-driven mechanism that provides precise, computer-controlled force application, enabling accurate delivery force control without increasing overall system complexity through automation integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback control mechanisms where sensors monitor the actual delivery force during IOL insertion and feed this information back to the control system. This closed-loop feedback enables real-time adjustment of motor output to maintain precise force control within the desired range, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and precision control.
2Ease of operation
If two-handed operation is required, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service automated insertion system where the device performs the insertion function autonomously under surgeon oversight. The powered delivery mechanism automatically propels the IOL through the incision without requiring the surgeon to manually manipulate the insertion cartridge, freeing the surgeon's hands for other surgical tasks and improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the manual two-handed mechanical operation with an automated motor-driven system. The mechanical insertion function is transferred to an automated mechanism that can be controlled remotely or autonomously, eliminating the need for the surgeon to manually operate the insertion cartridge while maintaining precise control over the insertion process.
3Manufacturing precision
If smaller incision size is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but force required for delivery increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical force application with a powered motor-driven delivery system. The motor provides amplified force output that can be precisely controlled, enabling delivery of the IOL through smaller incisions with less manual force requirement. This substitution allows precise incision sizing while maintaining adequate delivery force through automated mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic force control where the motor output force is continuously adjusted based on real-time feedback from sensors monitoring insertion resistance and position. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to apply sufficient force for small incisions when needed while reducing force during other phases, optimizing both incision size precision and delivery force requirements.
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 precise and controlled delivery of IOLs through small incisions with reduced manual effort, improving surgical efficiency and reducing the risk of complications by providing a consistent and adjustable force profile and enhanced lens manipulation capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the deformable polymeric materials enable the surgeon to fold, roll, and manipulate the IOL... A warmed IOL may become sufficiently soft, making it easier for the surgeon to fold and manipulate the IOL
Implementation Method 2
The design provides a powered delivery force generator configured to deliver the IOL into the patient's eye through the incision
Implementation Method 3
The design employs feedback of the force encountered and selectively alters force applied based on force encountered
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for performing an ocular surgical procedure is provided. The design provides an intra-ocular lens (IOL) to an eye through an incision in the eye by assessing IOL insertion conditions, translating said IOL insertion conditions into a desired force range for insertion of the IOL via the incision, controlling a power source to move the IOL to the eye, monitoring conditions, such as force encountered, while controlling the power source. The design employs feedback of the force encountered and selectively alters force applied based on force encountered.