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Publication Number
US-12702542-B2
Publication Date
2026-08-11
Expiration Date
Abstract
Intraocular lens (IOL) folding devices and methods of folding an IOL or components thereof are disclosed.
Core Innovation
The invention describes an intraocular lens (IOL) injector with an injector body, a nozzle with a hollow interior at its distal end, a reciprocating plunger, and a folding body with a center compartment adapted to house the IOL. Four levers apply force to the IOL: two press its first and second haptics against the base, and two fold the base at its first and second edges.
The described problem concerns handling and folding the intraocular lens (IOL) for delivery. Preloading and mechanical folding reduce handling damage, folding errors, and contamination risk. The folding body places the IOL in a delivery configuration, and a delivery channel aligns it with channels in the injector body and nozzle.
Claims Coverage
The claim coverage identifies one independent claim and four inventive features of the IOL injector.
Injector body, nozzle, and plunger
The injector comprises an injector body, a nozzle having a hollow interior disposed on its distal end, and a plunger adapted to reciprocate within the injector body and apply force to an IOL.
Folding body and center compartment
The folding body comprises a center compartment adapted to house the IOL.
Levers for pressing the haptics
A first lever applies force against the first haptic sufficient to press it against the IOL base, and a second lever applies force against the second haptic sufficient to press it against the base.
Levers for folding the base
A third lever applies force against the first edge of the IOL base sufficient to fold the base, and a fourth lever applies force against the second edge sufficient to fold the base.
The independent claim covers an IOL injector combining a reciprocating plunger and hollow-interior nozzle with a folding body, wherein four levers press the haptics against the base and fold the base at its two edges.
Stated Advantages
Preloading and mechanical folding are stated to reduce handling damage.
Preloading and mechanical folding are stated to reduce folding errors.
Preloading and mechanical folding are stated to reduce contamination risk.
Documented Applications
The IOL injector folds an IOL into a delivery configuration for alignment with the injector body and nozzle.
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