Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

An implantable ophthalmic device with one or more optical elements coupled to one or more shape-memory members provides dynamically variable optical power to restore lost accommodation in individuals suffering from presbyopia or aphakia. Running current from a power supply through the shape-memory members causes the shape-memory members to heat up. Once the current heats the shape-memory members past a forward phase-transition temperature, the shape-memory members change shape, which, in turn, causes the optical element(s) to move, yielding a corresponding change in effective optical power. Cooling the shape-memory members (e.g., by reducing or stopping the flow of current) below a reverse phase-transition temperature causes the shape-memory members to return to their original shape, which, in turn, restoring the optical element(s) to their original positions and returning the effective optical power to its original level.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim