Self-Blocking Ocular Cannula with Annular Groove
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ocular cannula assemblies lack precision and stability during use, leading to potential retinal detachment due to untimely protrusion and fluid injection under the retina when tools like infusion lines are maneuvered.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking cannula design with an annular groove and beveled distal end for stable positioning through the sclera and conjunctiva, preventing untimely exit and ensuring non-traumatic placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cannula is made movable to allow instrument passage, then the instrument can be maneuvered in the intraocular cavity, but the cannula may dislodge and cause subretinal fluid injection
Solution Approach 1:
The sclera and conjunctiva act as intermediary elements that sandwich the cannula between them. The annular groove positioned at a specific distance from the distal end creates a mechanical intermediary structure that engages with these tissue layers to lock the cannula in place, preventing dislodgement while allowing instrument movement through the cannula channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The cannula design enables self-locking through the interaction between the annular groove and the sclera/conjunctiva. When the cannula is inserted, the groove automatically engages with the tissue layers at the appropriate depth, creating a self-stabilizing mechanism that maintains cannula position without requiring additional active control during instrument manipulation.
2Productivity
If the cannula insertion is made rapid to accelerate surgery, then operation time is reduced, but traumatic insertion may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The annular groove is pre-formed at a specific distance from the distal end of the cannula, establishing a predetermined stopping position before insertion begins. The beveled distal end is pre-configured to facilitate smooth tissue penetration. This preliminary structural preparation allows the cannula to be inserted rapidly while automatically limiting penetration depth and reducing trauma through the engineered geometry.
Data Source
Figure 1~5
AI summary
The nozzle (4) has a tubular portion defining a passage channel which extends between a proximal opening at an outside of an intraocular cavity and a distal opening within the cavity. A blocking unit blocks the nozzle in a position in which the nozzle crosses sclera and/or conjunctiva, where blocking opposes movement of the nozzle. The blocking unit is in the form of an annular groove formed outside of the nozzle such that walls of the sclera and/or conjunctiva are sandwiched between shoulders once the nozzle inserted through walls of the sclera and/or conjunctiva.