Push and Twist Mechanism for Interfacing IOL Cartridge with Handpiece

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current eye surgery techniques for delivering intraocular lenses (IOLs) lack a standardized and interchangeable system for attaching drive mechanism handpieces to IOL cartridges, leading to complexity and inefficiency in IOL implantation procedures.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising an IOL cartridge with a nozzle, compartment, plunger, and plunger case, which is configured for fluid communication and removably attachable to a handpiece with a push rod, utilizing a standard interface mechanism that allows for easy pairing and disengagement of different handpieces with preloaded IOL cartridges, enabling efficient IOL delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a standardized interface mechanism is implemented for attaching handpieces to IOL cartridges, then ease of operation and interchangeability are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for standardized locking and unlocking mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of attaching handpiece to cartridgeVSAvoidcomplexity of interface mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handpiece and cartridge are designed with a universal interface mechanism that allows the same attachment system to work across different handpiece and cartridge configurations. The standardized interface includes complementary geometric features (protrusions and recesses) that enable interchangeable attachment while maintaining functional compatibility across multiple device variants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface mechanism employs nested geometric features where protrusions on one component fit into recesses on the mating component. This nesting arrangement creates a hierarchical structure of interlocking elements that provide both attachment security and ease of engagement through simple linear motion followed by rotational locking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If a secure locking mechanism is used to attach the handpiece to the cartridge, then reliability of attachment is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in detachment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of handpiece-cartridge attachmentVSAvoidease of detaching handpiece from cartridge
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic unlocking state through rotational motion. The geometric features are designed to lock securely in the engaged position while allowing controlled detachment through a simple rotational movement, providing both security and ease of operation through dynamic state change.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment and detachment process follows a periodic cycle: linear insertion, rotational locking, secure holding, rotational unlocking, and linear removal. This periodic action pattern ensures reliable attachment during surgery while enabling quick detachment when needed, with each phase of the cycle serving a specific functional purpose.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11872121B2Push and twist mechanism for interfacing a drive mechanism handpiece with an intraocular lens cartridge
Publication Date: 2024.01.16 ALCON INC
  • US11872121B2 patent drawing
  • US11872121B2 patent drawing
  • US11872121B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems, methods, and apparatuses for inserting an intraocular lens (IOL) into an eye, are provided. An apparatus comprises an IOL cartridge comprising a nozzle, a compartment, and a plunger case. The nozzle is in fluid communication with the compartment, and the plunger case is in fluid communication with the compartment. The plunger is disposed within the plunger case. The plunger case is configured to removably attach to a handpiece.