TW202231215A - Single touch contact lens case - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to contact lens cases which allow the lens to be removed from the lens case with a single touch. The lenses cases comprise a lens support which holds the lens in a convex position. When package is drained there is less contact area between the support and wetted contact lens, than between the user’s finger and the contact lens, providing the desired one touch transfer.

Description

One Touch Contact Lens Case

The present disclosure relates to a single-touch contact lens case.

For many years, it has been generally considered desirable to provide the user with contact lenses in a "single touch" case - that is, by virtue of the case, the contact lens wearer can The lens storage case removes the lens and then places the lens correctly on the eye with a single touch. In this design, there would be no need to transfer and manipulate the lens from finger to finger prior to placing the lens on the eye (as is common today). Providing this single touch box will not only simplify the lens preparation and insertion process; it will also reduce the possibility of the lens falling off or exposing the lens to additional bacteria on the user's other fingers (as the lens is prepared for orientation and insertion into the eye) , and also reduces the likelihood that the touch lens is intended to touch one side of the eye.

The design of a single-touch lens case presents a few different challenges. The user should ideally be able to consistently position the lens to adhere to the finger during removal from the case, and then the lens needs to be consistently released from the finger onto the eye. Contact lenses (both reusable and daily disposable) each have their own unique surface, body, and geometric characteristics. Finger size and the force the contact lens wearer exerts on the lens during transfer can also vary. These factors can affect the removal of the lens from the case onto the finger and then onto the surface of the eye. Among other considerations: it is desirable for the user to be able to drain any lens solution that may affect the ability to adhere the lens to the finger, as variations in the amount of lens solution adhering to the lens and case can affect placement of the lens on the finger the process of. Likewise, wearers may be concerned about the possibility of transferring bacteria or external products (such as cosmetics) to the contact lens; and of course, the case itself should be manufactured to expected industry standards recognized by the medical and commercial provider community.

Additionally, a single touch case should ideally not result in an excessive increase in the cost of the commodity relative to current contact lens cases, as this may result in increased costs for the user base. The case should not make it difficult to hold the lens when it is removed from the case. Furthermore, this would reduce the ecological impact of the lens case if one were to maintain the configuration of the case or even reduce the volume of solution required to load the lens. Likewise, it would be beneficial if all or part of the cartridge could be made from recycled material and/or was fully or partially recyclable.

Furthermore, it would be advantageous if the cartridges were composed of materials that had been approved by various regulatory agencies and ideally would not require changes to solution chemistry or lens composition. Also optimally, if electronic components or other electrical components can adversely affect the performance of the case or lens, the functionality of the case preferably does not incorporate any such components.

There are several desirable properties that have made achieving the functionality of a single touch box challenging and are often lacking in known attempts to create a single touch box. Such attributes include, for example, the following: • Lens cases should ideally protect the lenses. The integrity of the lens should be ensured while preventing crushing or damage to the lens. • When stored, the lens case should maintain the hydration of the lens. This will maintain the characteristics of the lens. The lenses in the case should be configured such that the lenses are fully immersed in the lens solution when required, but are free of such solution when the lenses are ready to be transferred to the wearer's finger. • The case should preferably maintain the lens in the wearer's desired convex orientation. The lens should be properly positioned on the lens support so that the lens can be easily removed by the user. • The lens case should allow the lens solution to drain effectively from the lens when opening the case and before removing the lens, allowing easier transfer to the wearer's fingers and then to the eye.

US7,398,877, WO2014/195588, WO2009/069265, JP6339322 disclose cases presenting lenses in a convex, bowl down configuration. However, the lens support structure substantially matches the shape of the contact lens, which provides an undesired contact area between the lens and the lens support. These references also do not mention a mechanism for efficient drainage of solution from the lens and lens support.

US20190046353 discloses contact lens storage containers that help increase the ease of lens removal. However, the case requires the user to pour out the lens solution and has curved support ribs that do not provide the desired consistent single-touch extraction.

US20200229560 discloses a case having lens supports supporting the concave (anterior or front) surface of the contact lens; or grilles supporting the peripheral edge of the contact lens and opening the The lens case allows the lens solution to drain through the grid to the bottom chamber.

Accordingly, there remains a need for a contact lens case that provides a consistent single-touch lens removal experience.

The case of the present invention provides improved functionality during storage, discharge, lens transfer, and repeated use, which enables consistent single-touch transfer of the lens from the lens case to the wearer's finger. Single-touch features include the following features individually and in combination:

The lens is completely submerged in the lens solution during storage, and the lid and base form a watertight seal when fully closed. To prevent optical distortion, the lens support and cover interior can be designed so that the lens optic zone does not permanently rest against any features/structures to prevent distortion.

The lens support is designed to maintain the lens in the desired convex orientation, but minimize contact between the lens and the lens support to provide good drainage so that the lens solution does not contact the lens when opened without fluid bridging to the lens Or pooled around the contact area between the lens and the support. Since the cartridge is reusable, it is desirable that it should be easy to use. The lens wearer should easily place the lenses in the case, fill the case with the correct level of solution to ensure lens immersion, and be easy to open, close, clean, empty, and dry the case.

Lens case structures and in-case features can also be designed to minimize microbial buildup.

The present invention relates to a contact lens case comprising a support for maintaining a contact lens in a convex position on the support during storage and when opening the case; wherein the lens has a peripheral edge and a lens profile; the support has a profile that does not substantially match the lens profile; and the wetted contact between the support and the lens is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm mm ² .

The present invention further relates to a contact lens case comprising a base; a cover; and a support for holding a contact lens having a peripheral edge and a lens profile in a convex position relative to the base in; wherein the base and the cover are sealed to form a cavity, the cavity includes the support, the contact lens, and a packaging solution; wherein the lens support includes a plurality of peripheral supports, the plurality of peripheral supports having a distal end extending at least 1 mm beyond the peripheral edge of the contact lens and providing at least 3, 3 to 14, 4 to 14, 3 to 8, or 4 to 8 along the peripheral supports 1, 4 to 6, or 6 points of contact with the edge of the contact lens, and after the case has been opened and the packaging solution has been directed away from the lens and the support, the moisturizing between the support and the lens Wet contact is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² .

The present invention further relates to a contact lens case comprising a support for holding a contact lens having a convex surface in a convex position relative to the support; and A lens-facing surface that includes at least one air intake guide configured such that when the case is opened by a user, the at least one air intake guide directs air at the contact lens convex The case is entered above the surface to reduce the incidence of the lens sticking to the inner surface.

The present invention relates to a case for a contact lens, such as a hydrogel contact lens, that allows a user to remove the contact lens from the case with a fingertip touching at or near the apex of the contact lens. Once transferred to the fingertip, the lens is in a position suitable for placement on the eye by the wearer, simplifying the process of removing the lens from the case and inserting it into the eye.

As used herein, the following terms have the foregoing meanings:

The benefit of the lens cases of the present invention is that they provide consistent single-touch lens transfer from the case to the wearer's finger, and then from the finger to the wearer's eye, without lens inversion, falling from the finger, or further manipulate. Consistent lens transfer includes a transfer rate of at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least about 90% upon first finger touch (or "dab"). The lens also "sit up" on the finger as desired without collapsing or inverting, and then transferred to the eye when placed on the finger. The case of the present invention can provide desired single-touch transfer across a range of finger sizes and tap pressures. Environmental conditions such as temperature and wet or dry fingers can also affect transfer rates, with higher temperatures generally improving lens transfer. The lens transfers evaluated in the present invention were performed at room temperature.

Contact lens refers to an ophthalmic device that resides on the eye. It has a substantially hemispherical shape and can provide optical correction, cosmetic enhancement, UV blocking and visible light or glare reduction, therapeutic effects (including wound healing, delivery of drugs or nutrients, diagnostic assessment, or monitoring), or any combination thereof. The term lens includes soft hydrogel contact lenses, which are typically provided to consumers in a case in a hydrated state and have a relatively low modulus, which allows the lens to conform to the cornea. Contact lenses suitable for use in the kits of the present invention include all hydrated contact lenses, including conventional and silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

A hydrogel is a hydrated cross-linked polymeric system that contains water in an equilibrium state, and may contain at least about 25%, or at least 35% water in a hydrated state. Hydrogels are generally oxygen permeable and biocompatible, making them excellent materials for the production of contact lenses.

Conventional hydrogel contact lenses do not contain silicone-containing components and generally have higher water content, lower oxygen permeability, modulus, and shape memory than silicone hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels are made from monomer mixtures mainly containing hydrophilic monomers such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate ("HEMA"), N-vinylpyrrolidone ("NVP") ), or polyvinyl alcohol. US Patent Nos. 4,495,313, 4,889,664, and 5,039,459 disclose the formation of conventional hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels can be ionic or non-ionic, and include those containing polymacon, etafilcon, nelfilcon, ocufilcon, lenefilcon, and the like. The oxygen permeability of these conventional hydrogel materials is generally lower than 20 to 30 Barrer.

Silicone hydrogel formulations include balafilcon, samfilcon, lotrafilcon A and B, delfilcon, galyfilcon, senofilcon A, B, and C, narafilcon, comfilcon, formofilcon, riofilcon, fanfilcon, stenfilcon, somofilcon, kalifilcon, and the like. "Silicone hydrogel" refers to a polymeric network made of at least one hydrophilic component and at least one silicone-containing component. The polysiloxane hydrogel can have a modulus in the range of 60 to 200, 60 to 150, or 80 to 130 psi, with a water content in the range of 20 to 60%. Examples of polysiloxane hydrogels include acquafilcon, asmofilcon, balafilcon, comfilcon, delefilcon, enfilcon, fanfilcon, formofilcon, galyfilcon, lotrafilcon, narafilcon, riofilcon, samfilcon, senofilcon, somofilcon, and stenfilcon (including all variations thereof),以及如美國專利第4,659,782、4,659,783、5,244,981、5,314,960、5,331,067、5,371,147、5,998,498、6,087,415、5,760,100、5,776,999、5,789,461、5,849,811、5,965,631、6,367,929、6,822,016、6,867,245、6,943,203、7,247,692、7,249,848、7,553,880、7,666,921、7,786,185、7,956,131 、8,022,158、8,273,802、8,399,538、8,470,906、8,450,387、8,487,058、8,507,577、8,637,621、8,703,891、8,937,110、8,937,111、8,940,812、9,056,878、9,057,821、9,125,808、9,140,825、9156,934、9,170,349、9,244,196、9,244,197、9,260,544、9,297,928、9,297,929號以及Polysiloxane hydrogels prepared in WO 03/22321, WO 2008/061992, and US 2010/0048847. The entire contents of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference. Silicone hydrogels may have higher shape memory than conventional contact lenses.

Hydrogel lenses are viscoelastic materials. Contact lenses may develop optical distortions if the lens interacts with the case or any air bubbles in the case. The degree of optical distortion, and the length of time required for distortion to relax, will vary depending on the chemistry and, to a lesser extent, the geometry of the lens. Conventional lens materials (such as poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) based lenses such as etafilcon A or polymacon) have low loss modulus and tan delta compared to polysilicon hydrogels and can form less and less severe of optical distortion due to contact with the packaging. Incorporation of polysiloxanes (which typically increase the bulk elastic response), wetting agents (such as PVP) (which typically increase the viscous response), or coatings (such as plasmonic coatings or conventional hydrogel materials) (which may Reducing the elastic response at the lens interface) can change the viscoelastic properties of the lens. Conventional hydrogel contact lenses and polysiloxane hydrogel contact lenses with short or hard crosslinkers and/or hardeners have short shape memory and may be less susceptible to deformation during storage. As used herein, high or higher shape memory hydrogels exhibit optical distortion due to contact with air bubbles or cells of at least about 0.18 after accelerated aging at 55°C for 5 weeks. Viscoelastic properties, including loss modulus and tan delta, can be measured using dynamic mechanical analysis.

Contact lenses can be of any geometry or power, and have a generally hemispherical shape with a concave back side that rests against the eye in use and a convex front side that faces away from the eye and contacts the eyelid during blinking.

The center of the lens is the center of the optical zone of the lens. The optical zone provides optical correction and can have a diameter between about 7 and about 10 mm. The optical zone of the lens provides vision correction. The perimeter or edge of the lens is the edge where the front and back sides meet. The wetted lens is the contact lens and any residual solution adhering to the contact lens after the lens solution has been drained. Wetting contact is the aggregated contact area between the wetting lens and the lens support.

The contact lens case contains a lens support surrounded by a reversibly sealed chamber. The chamber may have any convenient form, and may include a base, which may have one or more compartments or base segments, a lens support, and at least one cover, each of which is described in detail in Down. As used herein, the terms "the cover," "a cover," "the base," and "a base" encompass both the singular and the plural. The lid and box base are sealed to each other to form a water-tight cavity that retains the contact lens, support, and lens solution during cleaning and storage. Contact lens cases are made of materials that are compatible with contact lenses and solutions and are biologically inert.

A lens cleaning or multi-purpose solution ("Lens Solution") is any physiological solution that is compatible with the selected lens material and case. Lens solutions include buffered solutions of physiological pH, such as buffered saline solutions. Lens solutions may contain known components including buffers, pH and tonicity adjusting agents, lubricants, wetting agents, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, in-box coating components, and the like.

The box base forms the bottom of the box. It can be made of any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including plastic. The bottom of the lens support is disposed on and supported by the base surface facing into the cassette cavity. The lens support can also be integral with the base. The lens support may rest on an inner surface of the box base, which may be horizontal or may be angled to maintain the lens support and lens in an angled position when the bottom of the base is horizontal. When the base is positioned at an angle, the angle is preferably at least about 15°, at least about 20°, about 20° to about 80°, about 20° to about 60°, or about 20° to about 20° to horizontal about 40°.

The lid forms the uppermost structure of the case and is sealed with the base to form a cavity containing the lens support, lens, lens solution, and any other incorporated features. The lid can be made of any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including foil or flat or molded sheet of plastic, laminated film, or plastic. Boxes comprising plastic for one structure and foil or laminate film for the other structure, or plastic for lids and bases, are known in the art and are examples of suitable combinations. Lens Supports and Transfers

During storage, the lens support holds the lens in the desired convex orientation (bowl down with respect to the base) and position (centered above the support). The lens support is designed to provide an open structure under the lens bowl to allow the lens solution to drain from the lens and support when opened without trapping water between the supports; and a sufficient number of contact points with the lens, to prevent the lens from collapsing onto the support, rotating off the support, or translating on the support. This allows the lens apex to be supported by the elastic stiffness of the lens itself, or minimizes sinking of the lens apex while limiting the contact area between the support and the lens. Excessive contact between the support and the lens after solution discharge, and water trapped between the support and the lens, can create surface tension between the lens and the water on and around the lens support, the surface tension greater than the surface tension between the wearer's finger and the lens, thereby interfering with effective lens transfer. When the case is open, the sum of the contact between the lens and the lens support and the solution draining from the lens and the lens support is the total contact area, which can be less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² and The ties are distributed at least around the perimeter of the lens, as described herein.

For lenses made from polymers with longer shape memory, the lens support can be designed to limit contact between the lens and the support during storage. Such contacts can be distributed around the peripheral edge of the lens. Contact between the lens optic zone, the lens support, and the interior of the cover (including any air entry guides) may be temporary, or there may be no contact between the optic zone and the support, cover, or air entry guides. Lenses with shorter shape memory, such as conventional hydrogels, are less prone to deformation by packaging contact and can have a distribution around the perimeter and throughout the contour of the lens (including the central area of the lens, about 9 mm in diameter, or about 5 mm in diameter) point of contact.

The lens support of the present invention allows both the fingertip and the lens to deform to match each other's shape when tapped without causing lens inversion or damage to the lens during removal due to excessive pressure during tapping. Therefore, one aspect of removing the lens from the case of the present invention controls the ratio of the contact area between the finger and the lens to the area between the lens and the lens support so that the contact area between the finger and the lens exceeds that under the lens. The contact surface area of the lens support on the side. This will ensure that the surface tension between the finger and the lens exceeds the surface tension between the lens and the lens support. Thus, the lens will adhere to the finger for lens transfer and placement on the eye.

1A-1P show examples of lens supports that may be used in the present invention. Each of these lens supports can be used in any of the cassettes described herein. The lens support can provide light resistance on the lens during lens transfer to allow the lens to adhere to the fingers. As shown in Figures 1A-1P, the lens support can be designed in a range of configurations. It should be understood that the configurations depicted herein are illustrative examples. Configurations not shown or combinations of the depicted exemplary configurations are possible within the scope of the appended claims, as would be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the remainder of this disclosure. Obvious.

The lens supports provide at least 2, at least 3, at least 3, 3 to 14, 4 to 14, 3 to 8, or 4 to 8, 4 to 6, or 6 supports along the perimeter 105 The point of contact with the edge of the contact lens. When two peripheral supports are used, they can be wider to provide stability, but not exceed the desired contact area for consistent lens transfer. Peripheral contact points prevent the lens from rotating away from the lens and can be distributed in several configurations as long as the space between the furthest adjacent contact points is less than the diameter of the lens. For the three contact points, the contact points may be configured as acute triangles, as shown in Example 16. All (FIGS. 1B, 1C, 1H, 1K, and 1L) or most (FIGS. 1M-1O) perimeter supports may be evenly distributed around the perimeter of the lens. As the number of peripheral supports increases, the likelihood of lens solution drainage, residual lens solution film between adjacent peripheral supports, and solution bridging between supports and lenses may increase. Peripheral supports with less than 50% open space, such as those in the form of screens or screens, typically provide insufficient drainage to ensure single-touch transfer. Supports in the shape of convex domes (whether formed from ridges, solid or porous domes) typically provide excessive contact area with the lens and inconsistent drainage.

Figure 1G shows a lens support comprising 6 planar peripheral supports 105 that engage in the center of the lens support and extend outward to the unsupported distal end. Channel member 115 is one structure that may be used to help facilitate drainage of the lens solution and is discussed in detail below.

The peripheral support 105 provides a path for the lens solution to drain from the lens when the case is opened. To facilitate drainage of the lens solution, the peripheral support is typically transverse to the lens edge, which helps prevent the lens from wrapping around the support, and is linear and can extend outward to a distance of at least 1 mm beyond the peripheral edge of the contact lens. If the distal end of the peripheral support extends less than 2 mm beyond the edge of the lens, the lens solution may be undesirably trapped under the lens, which may interfere with effective lens transfer. If the central peripheral tip (such as the "V" shaped notch of peripheral support 105 in Figure ID) is not attached to the central support, the central peripheral tip may extend inwardly toward the center of the support from the point of contact with the contact lens at least About 3 mm, as depicted in the exemplary configuration of Figure ID. If the peripheral support extends inwardly toward the lens from the lens contact point by less than 3 mm, the lens may slide away from the peripheral support.

The peripheral supports 105 may be disposed radially around the center of the support. The peripheral supports may be attached to each other as shown in Figure 1G, or to the elbow 104 as the end portion of the lens support arm, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B. The peripheral support 105 may extend inwardly from at least a portion of the peripheral ring 109, as shown in Figures 1C and ID. Also, the peripheral support 105 may be attached to the central post or column 107 as shown in Figure IE, or any combination of the foregoing. When the perimeter supports extend inwardly, they may intersect at a single central point (FIG. 1G), column, or cylinder 107 (FIG. 1E), which may intersect adjacent perimeter supports to form an open center (as in FIG. 1D ). shown). Alternatively or additionally, one or more peripheral supports 105 may extend inwardly from their distal ends at at least part of the peripheral ring to an unsupported proximal end within the circumference of the lens or to another point on the peripheral ring, as shown in FIG. 1C is shown. The perimeter supports may be planar as in Figures IB to IG, or may be angled as in Figure 1A. When angled, the angle may be 0° to about 30°, or 0° to about 15° from horizontal, and may be inclined toward the center of the support or the distal end of the peripheral support.

The distal ends of adjacent peripheral supports 105 may be connected to each other via end crosspieces that form a partial peripheral ring 109 as shown in Figures IB and ID, or a full ring 109 as shown in Figure 1C . For example, FIG. 1D shows a lens support comprising a partial perimeter ring 109 having planar perimeter supports 105 in the form of an open six-armed asterisk shape surrounding the central diameter of the lens support Set to ground. Because the lens case is reused for weeks or months, a stronger lens support may be preferable. Lens supports with full perimeter rings, perimeter posts, or lens supports integrally molded into the base may be preferred. Examples of such supports are shown in Figures 1H, 1K-1R.

When a full or partial peripheral ring is included, the full or partial peripheral ring may have a diameter at least 4 mm larger than the contact lens (at least 2 mm from all contact lens edges) to facilitate drainage of the lens solution from the lens and lens support. For partial perimeter rings having complex shapes, such as the partial perimeter ring of FIG. ID, the diameter of at least the partial perimeter ring may be centered about the center of the lens support and measured across the opposing partial perimeter ring segment 109 . Peripheral ring diameters between about 16 and about 25 mm, between about 18 and about 25 mm, or between about 18 and about 24 mm would be suitable for commercially available contact lenses.

When a perimeter ring is included, the perimeter ring can rest on the base during storage, can be fixedly attached to the base, or can be attached to a vertical support 147, such as feet, struts 110 (see Figures 1K and 110). 1P), a raised base fin section (FIG. 1H), a central post or cylinder 107 (shown in FIG. 1Q) (which keeps the peripheral ring lifted from the base). Vertical supports may extend from the base by about 4 to about 5 mm for lens supports positioned horizontally, or vertical for lens supports that tilt when the case is closed (such as the tilted lens supports depicted in Figure 1H ) The straight supports may extend from the base by about 2 to about 5 mm, about 2.5 to about 5 mm, or about 3 to about 4 mm. When vertical supports are included, the vertical supports may be of the same length, or may be of different lengths to maintain the lens at an angle relative to the horizontal. The upper limit of the height of the vertical support is limited by the desired size of the box, since increasing the length of the vertical support increases the overall box height and the amount of solution required. The peripheral ring may also be attached to a lift or pivot structure as described below, such as a lever or extended channel member, to facilitate lifting the lens support from the base to assist in expelling the lens solution from the lens.

The box base can also be designed so that the perimeter supports 105 (shown as part of the raised fins in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1H ) are flush with each other, but the base floor 120 and lens supports 136 are arranged at an angle (Figure 1H). The lens support may be a separate structure or may be part of the base as shown in Figure 1H.

The lens support may further comprise at least one positioning structure (not shown) to prevent horizontal translation of the lens across the lens support, particularly for supports disposed at an angle in the case or when opened and removed. These positioning structures include notches, prongs, or stops along the peripheral supports outside the lens perimeter; open central supports (described below); within the lens near the lens perimeter Dowels or tabs where the lens surface is more steeply angled, such as outside the central region of the lens (about 5 mm, about 6 mm, or about 7 mm in diameter); or a combination thereof.

As shown in Figures 1E, 1J, and 1H, the lens support may further include an open-structured central support to provide additional resistance, drainage paths, and/or increase the contact area between the fingers and the lens during lens transfer . The central support can be contoured to hold the lens in a convex position, preferably centered on the support, during shipping and storage, without significant contact, and after discharge and upon contact by the user's fingers Provide the desired lens contact area before. The central support can be configured such that a gap is created between the lens support and the lens, such as by having a substantially flat top that allows the top of the lens to be deformed by the fingers and the finger pads to be flattened, thereby The desired surface area deviation is produced. When present, the central support may be flat or may be slightly concave, preferably provided between the lens apex and the top of the central support when discharging (to minimize contact between the lens apex and the support) At least 0.5 mm and provide a larger lens-finger contact area than the contact area between the lens and the rest of the lens support ("substantially flat top" or "flat top"). If slightly curved, the central support may have a slightly concave curve with a radius of curvature of at least about 10 mm or at least about 6 mm, or less desirably a slightly convex curve of about 10 mm or more out curvature. It may be desirable to design the central support so that it does not contact the lens optic zone prior to lens transfer.

The top of the central support may have a diameter of about 1 mm to about 10 mm, about 3 mm to about 9 mm, about 5 to about 9 mm, or about 6 to about 9 mm. For central supports with a flat top area less than about 5 mm in diameter, additional positioning structures may be desirable. The top of the central support can be oriented parallel to the perimeter of the lens to form a post as shown in FIGS. 1A-1F . The top of the central support also provides resistance against the fingers when the user presses down on the lens apex to initiate lens transfer.

The central support may be formed from a plurality of arms. The arms may form a flat top section 101 and are supported by: one or more posts 108 extending upwardly from the base, as shown in Figure 1J; at least one peripheral support 105, as shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 1C , Figure 1E, Figure 1F; at least one arm, as shown in Figure 1D; or a vertical support 110, which is in the form of a fin as shown in Figure 1H, or an open support 110 as shown in Figure 1K form. When the arms extend beyond the flat top, the arms may include optional side sections 103, shoulder transitions 102 connecting the flat top section 101 with the optional side sections 103, perimeter supports 105, connecting optional Optional elbow transition 104 between selected side 103 and perimeter support 105. The flat top sections of the arms may be connected at: the center at point 106, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B; the post 108, as shown in Figure 1i; or the ring may be connected to an open full cylinder or partial cylinder as shown in Figure 1E 107, or the arms may be attached to the box base, or as solid fins with a gap 106a in the middle of the substantially flat top 101 (FIG. 1H). The arms can also be attached to the bottom of the lens support, as shown in Fig. 1K, which has 6 arms with curved side sections 103, and a flat top section 101, which is tied by The ends of the arms face upwards are formed. The distal ends of the peripheral supports 105 may also be connected from the base to individual supports as shown in Figures 1K and 1P, may be connected to a hollow post in Figure 1Q, or directly to the base as shown in Figures 1L and 1R.

As shown in Figures 1H and 1M, the fins, base, or both can also be hollow to minimize the amount of packaging material used. Hollow or solid fins also replace the lens solution, reducing the amount required. The arms may be distributed radially around the center of the support structure.

The flat top section may also include an optional center fillet 106a centered on the flat top section, as shown in Figures 1A, 1O, and 1N. The central sheet may be included in a lens support with or without a central post, respectively, such as Figures 1N and 1A. When included, the central sheet may have the following widths across its longest dimension: about 0.1 to about 3 mm; about 0.1 to about 2 mm, or less than 1.5 mm. The central sheet can have any shape, including round, triangular, or square with smooth or scalloped edges. Triangular or square points can be located on the arms, offset from the arms, and can be rounded or pointed.

When opened, the perimeter of the contact lens will rest on the perimeter support 105, and the lens may additionally rest on the central support or a portion of the central support, such as the shoulder transition 102. The side sections 103 can have any shape that provides minimal, and preferably no, contact with the contact lens when the package is opened and discharged, so that the desired difference in contact area is achieved when the lens is transferred. The side sections may be straight (non-curved), as shown in Figures IB-IF. The lens may also have no side supports as shown in FIG. 1J , where the flat top section 101 is supported by the central post 108 . As the solution drains, the lens may collapse towards the central support. The configuration of the peripheral supports of the present invention and the contour of the lens support (including the central support, if present) do not substantially match the lens contour and prevent the lens from deforming or interacting with the lens support during discharge such that the lens is in the The lens regains its shape during transfer and does not stick to the central support. Preferably, the lens support profile that does not substantially match the lens profile includes a central support profile that provides a separation between the lens and the side supports (if present) that is at least angled away from the vertical outward. The spacing provided by right-angled side sections greater than about 10°, the central support profile includes a central support with no side sections or with concave curves in the side sections. It will be appreciated that lenses with higher modulus, such as polysiloxane hydrogels, may be less deformable and may require a central support with less mismatch.

The height of the flat top section (when included) is measured from the point of contact between the lens and the peripheral support to the top of the shoulder and can vary depending on the sagittal depth and curvature of the contact lens. For effective transfer, it may be desirable to offset at least about 0.5 mm, about 0.5 to about 2 mm, 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.8 to about 1 mm from the apex of the undeformed contact lens. For contact lenses with a sagittal depth of 3.8 mm, a flat top portion having a height of about 2 mm to about 3.3 mm, about 2.5 to 3.3 mm, or about 3 to about 3.5 mm can be used. Post heights of less than about 2 mm can trap the lens solution in the support base and cause the lens to deform and snap into the center. These heights, whether measured from the apex of the lens to the top of the flat top (if present) or from the base, will provide the desired area of contact between the finger and the lens to provide consistent lens transfer without causing The lens is reversed.

Removing the central post and leaving a void in the center can also provide desirable lens transfer, especially for lenses that have a neutral shape after discharge. The void may have a diameter between about 5 mm and the diameter of the lens (which provides a support with only a peripheral support, as in Figures IF and IM). The void can be cleared to the base of the lens or below the base of the lens. The gap is desirably at least 5 mm throughout to provide proper drainage.

Any structures below the void preferably have a low surface area so as not to interfere with lens solution drainage. For example, for voids extending to the base of the lens, at least about 50% of the area of the void at the base will be cleared. The voids extending below the base of the lens may have structures with larger surface areas, as long as the structures do not protrude above the base.

The length of the arms may also vary depending on where and to what the arms are attached in the flat top region, and whether the arms have peripheral supports. The arms attached to the center support, such as shown in FIG. 1A , may have a length from the shoulder to the center point of about 1.5 to about 4.5 mm, about 2.5 to about 4.5, or about 3 to about 4.5 mm. The length of the arm side section (when present) is determined by the height of the lens support and can be about 1.5 to about 4.5 mm, about 1.5 to about 3.5 mm, or about 2 to about 3.5 mm.

The side sections may be perpendicular relative to the base, or may have any angle 103a (FIG. 1A) or curve less than the curvature of the lens so that the desired contact area is not exceeded. Suitable angles include up to about 15°, or between about 1° and about 10° outward from vertical.

The angle 103b at the elbow transition between the side section and the peripheral support (when connected to the arm) may be between about 60° and about 120°, or between about 80° and about 100°.

The number and shape of the arms can also vary, so long as they provide the desired balance of effective drainage of the lens solution and contact area with the lens when opened. The case of the present invention can have one or more, three to eight, or three to six arms forming a central support that can be designed to provide the desired contact area between the lens and the finger, and along the The flat top resists finger touch resistance, but only makes temporary contact with the contact lens at the optional side sections and shoulder transitions. The shoulder transitions may be disposed radially around the center of the support. The shoulder transitions may be spaced at approximately equal angles from the center. The arms can be flat as shown in Figure 1A, or curved, such as in a U shape (not shown), or can be branched, such as in a straight or curved "Y" shape 101b, U-shaped as shown in Figure 1B , or T-shaped. The branching of the arm(s) may occur within the flat top region as shown in FIG. 1B , or at the perimeter support 105c as shown in FIG. 1C . The support can have all planar arms, all branched arms, or a mixture of planar and branched arms, such as two branched arms and two straight arms as shown in Figure 1C, three branched arms as shown in Figure 1b, or All planar arms as shown in Figure 1A. Examples of suitable arm configurations include three to eight or three to six planar arms, 3 straight or curved Y-shaped arms, 2 to 4 planar arms, and 2 branched arms (which may be straight or curved Y-shaped arms). shape, U-shaped, or T-shaped) arms, and two planar arms and 2 branch arms (which can be straight or curved Y-shaped, U-shaped, or T-shaped). The arm configuration may provide shoulders and peripheral support contact points disposed along the plane of the arm (FIG. 1A), or shoulders and peripheral support contact points offset from each other (FIG. 1C).

Each arm has a cross-section sufficient to provide a lens support with resistance to prevent the lens from collapsing during discharge, or excessive contact between the lens and the lens support during lens transfer. The lens support is preferably formed of a rigid material, and the resistance of the arms can be controlled by the modulus of the selected lens support material and the dimensions of the arms. Rigid plastics suitable for injection molding small parts, such as polypropylene homopolymers and copolymers, cyclic olefin polymers (COP), cyclic olefin copolymers (COC), and mixtures thereof, are suitable materials. Depending on the additives, packages including polypropylene homopolymers and copolymers typically have flexural moduli in the range of 1100 to 1800 MPa, COP and COC have flexural moduli in the range of 1800 to 2900 MPa, and polypropylene Blends with COP or COC can have flexural moduli in the range of 1100 to 2900 MPa. The polypropylene can be nucleated, rheologically controlled, or both, and both Ziegler-Natta catalyzed polypropylene and metallocene catalyzed polypropylene can be used. The polypropylene polymer may also include additives including processing aids (such as glycerol monostearate, zinc stearate, and calcium stearate), fillers that alter the properties of the polypropylene, and the like. An example of a polypropylene suitable for use in lens cases is Boremed HF840, which is a polypropylene homopolymer with a slip agent, a melt index of 19 g/10min, and a flexural modulus of 1,250 MPa.

References throughout this specification to conventional injection molding procedures relating to the use of materials conventionally applied to injection molding should be understood to be exemplary. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other means of manufacture are possible within the scope of the appended claims, including but not limited to alternative molding procedures, thermoforming, 3D printing, and the like.

The width of the arms can vary between the limits of the selected molding program and the width required for effective lens solution discharge when opened.

Suitable arm widths include about 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, about 0.5 to about 1, or about 0.5 to about 0.7 mm, and it will be appreciated that lens support designs with fewer contact points may have thicker arms.

The height of the arms can vary from the limits of the injection molding process to the height of the arms from the base, in which case the arms are fins, as shown in Figures 1E and 1H, the arms can be attached to the base, molded as part of the base, or can be reliably placed on the base. When the arms are not fins, the arms may have a height of 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, about 0.5 to about 1, or about 0.5 to about 0.7 mm. It will be appreciated that materials with lower modulus may benefit from arms having a larger profile in height, width, or both.

Materials suitable for use in lens supports must also be non-leaching, compatible with various lens cleaning and care solutions, suitable for biomedical devices, and inexpensive. Preferably, the material is also recyclable. The lens support material may, but need not be, optically clear. The lens support material can be non-polar to facilitate drainage of the lens solution. Non-polar materials are non-polar materials with contact angles greater than 90° at 25°C via the sessile drop method using deionized water.

As can be seen, the lens supports of the present invention can have a range of arm and peripheral support configurations and features, and are not limited to the specific combinations shown in the drawings and discussed herein.

Additional combinations of arm configurations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings of this application. The only limitations of the arm design are the ability to mold the lens support, and the number and orientation of contact points to balance the lens support with the intended discharge when opened. Lens solution discharge

The cassettes of the present invention may have additional features that, along with the lens support, allow the lens solution to be drained from the lens and lens support. Additional drain features provide a drain path for the lens solution. The discharge path, when open, creates an angled fluid film formed between two solid members (such as adjacent peripheral supports), a substantially vertical formed between two solid members (such as a central post and side sections) A fluid film, or a steep or substantially vertical path along a smooth solid surface such as a side section or peripheral column wall. The shallower the angle of the discharge path, the easier it is to break the flow path and promote the formation of lens solution trapped between the lens and the lens support, including the reservoir and residual film. An angled discharge path having an angle of between 10° and about 90° is suitable. Lens supports and venting features with sharp edges and very long pathways can also break the venting pathway.

As described above and shown in FIGS. 1K , 1L, and 1P-1R, an overall angled, raised, or raised and angled lens support can provide the desired drainage. The lens support can also be positioned horizontally on the base and include a lift-off structure, as described below. A drain channel, when present, cooperates with the lift structure to create a temporary film of lens solution flowing away from the lens, and a path for this film to drain under the force of gravity. In this way, the drain channel helps to minimize pooling of lens solution between the backside of the lens and the lens support structure when the case is opened, and the lens support is lifted or tilted out of the lens solution. The discharge channel includes at least one channel member extending outwardly from the arc of the peripheral ring, at least a portion of the peripheral ring, or an arc formed by the distal end of the non-elongated peripheral support. The discharge channel contains a gap between two adjacent members, or a split in a single member when a single member is used. For lens supports that do not have a full perimeter ring, the vent channel gap can start at any point within the perimeter of the lens. For supports with a full perimeter ring (such as those shown in Figures 1C, 1I, and 1M-1O), the vent channel gap may begin at the inner edge of the perimeter ring as shown in Figure 1C, or within the lens perimeter start at any point. The vent channel may extend in length beyond the perimeter ring or lens perimeter (if the perimeter ring is not included) at least 2 mm, about 2 to about 4 mm, or about 2.5 to about 3.5 mm. The vent channel gap provides space outside the perimeter of the contact lens for air flow, ensuring that air and lens solution from the concave surface of the lens can be vented upon opening without drawing the lens down onto the lens support. Thus, in Figure IE, the portion of the gap 111 located within the perimeter of the lens does not substantially participate in the discharge.

The upper limit of the length of the discharge channel is defined by the final size of the packing and lifting structure (if included).

Referring to FIG. 1B , the discharge channel member 115 may be formed by extending adjacent peripheral support segments 105 beyond at least part of the arc of the peripheral ring 109 and engaging the distal end via a crosspiece 114 to be in the discharge channel member 115 A gap or open channel 111 is formed therebetween. As shown in FIG. 1C , the channel member 115 may be attached to and be planar with at least a portion of the peripheral ring 109 . As shown in Figure ID, the vent channel 113 can also be formed by extending the ring support structure 105 from a point 112 within the lens edge to a point beyond the arc of at least part of the peripheral ring, and by a rail at the distal end 114 engages. The discharge channel may also be formed by attaching the channel member 115 to the arm at any point, including to the bottom of the fin when the arm is finned (as shown in Figure IF). The drain channel may also be formed by providing a gap in the peripheral ring having planar arms extending therefrom such that the peripheral ring and drain groove 113 form a keyhole shape, as shown in Figure 1C. When present, the peripheral ring/part of the peripheral ring may be connected to the elongated arm.

The vent channel member 115 may be straight as shown in FIGS. 1C-1G , may be curved as shown in FIG. 1B , may abduct at the peripheral annular arc and taper from the arc to the distal end, or may be from at least a portion of the periphery The ring tapers to the distal end of the discharge channel. Any taper can be straight or curved. When the discharge channel is tapered, the channel will be tapered towards the rail 114 . The vent channel may be about 0.8 to about 3 mm wide, and may be about 1 mm or about 0.8 mm wide at the distal end or rail when tapered.

Other vent channel configurations not shown or in combination with the illustrative configurations depicted Other vent channel configurations are possible and within the scope of the appended patent application, as would be appreciated in the art in view of the remainder of this disclosure. It will be obvious to those of ordinary knowledge. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the exhaust passage may be omitted entirely. For example, when the lens support is fixedly angled relative to the bottom of the base, such as in FIG. 1H , the drainage channel is not necessary and the angle of the lens support provides the desired drainage when opening the case. Lens presentation

The box of the present invention may also include a lift-up structure for Lift the lens support from the lens solution. The lift structure can present the lens support and lens from the base and lens solution by any suitable means, including tilting the lens support up, tilting the base down, lifting the lens support up from the base, down Lower the base, or any combination thereof, and the like.

In conjunction with other features of the cassette, the discharge channel may serve as a lift member, or the lift member may include structures such as springs, hinges, levers, pivot arms, folds, mechanical traps, handles, and combinations thereof. The lift member may comprise a rigid elongate member extending outwardly from a structure disposed along the bottom of the lens support, which may form part of the discharge channel. For example, a lens support with elongated vent channel 215 may include a flexible attachment 245 between lens support 236 and cover 235, positioned opposite cover opening tab 228, such as shown in Figure 2A. The flexible attachment may have any suitable structure, including hinges, flexible folds, pivot arms, mechanical traps, and the like. The act of pulling up on the tab 228 and lid 235 opens the case and also lifts the lens support 236 from the base 240, presenting the lens for removal by the user.

Lifting means may also include: articulating or flexible straps or loops tied between the cover and the lens support; or folding arms connecting the base and the lens support, where the cover and the lens support are The flexible attachment between the opposing folding arms is shown in Figure 2B. The lift member pivots the lens support to about 15° to about 80°, about 20° relative to horizontal when the lens is presented including a lens member that pivots the lens upward from the base and the lens solution when the lens case is opened to an angle of about 70°, about 30° to about 60°, or about 40° to about 60°.

Any means for attaching the lift member to the cover, base, or lens support may be used, including adhesives, glue, any suitable welding (including but not limited to thermal, ultrasonic, or laser welding), or Mechanical trap. The lift member can also be moulded as part of the cover.

Additional lift mechanisms include simple loops, tabs, or handle replaceable hinges 245 as lift mechanisms. The user can open the lid and lift the lens support from the solution by lifting the tab or handle.

Other hinge and lever configurations are known in the art, such as those disclosed in US20140027462, DE4415003, and JP6339322. Alternatively, the lens support side sections may be deformable, replaced with a spring structure, or may include springs 237 (as shown in Figure 2C) below the perimeter support or perimeter ring, so that in the closed position, the cover and lens support The member engages to compress the spring or support without compressing the lens. When the case is opened, the spring relaxes and the lens support lifts the lens over the lens solution. In this configuration, the peripheral support and central support top section (if present) would be made of rigid material to limit contact of the lens with the lens support and provide resistance during lens transfer. The spring can have any form, including flexible arms that can be straight or curved, coils, and the like. The arms can interact with cover features surrounding the peripheral ring of the lens support to compress the springs when the case is closed.

Any deformable structure incorporated under the perimeter support should be designed so as not to detract from any venting features (including the perimeter support and ring) included in the lens.

It will be appreciated that a lift mechanism to lift the lens parallel to the base may not require a separate drain channel.

The lens solution can also be drained from the lens by removing at least one displacement member from the cavity of the lens case or by opening a separate seal near the bottom of the cavity, or can be drained from the cavity. The displacement member can be molded into the base or lid structure and, when the cassette is closed, displaces the lens solution in the base cavity, raises the solution level, and immerses the lens support and lens. When the displacement member 430 is molded into the base (as shown in FIG. 4A ), the lens (concave or bowl up) and the solution can be placed in the lid, then the base ties closed on top of the lid, and the box Turned over so that the edge of the lens rests on the peripheral support 405 . The displacement member may also be in the form of a plug, as shown in Figures 4B and 4C. The stopper can have any configuration. The lens solution can drain into the cartridge base when the stopper is removed, or into a separate chamber blocked by the displacement member when the cartridge is closed. For example, Figure 4B shows a lens case of the present invention having a displacement member 430 in the form of a plug. The lens case has a two stage cover (shown by tabs 428a and 428b). To place the lens in the case for storage and cleaning, the tab 428b is raised to expose the upper base chamber 440a, which contains the lens solution cavity and lens support. The lens solution is added to the lens solution cavity to the fill line, and the lens is placed on the lens support with the peripheral edge of the lens resting on the peripheral support 405 . The solution is preferably added first to allow good transfer from the fingers to the lens support. When there is no solution in the cavity, the surface area between the finger and the lens is greater than the surface area between the lens and the lens support. Partial or complete immersion of the lens support prior to transferring the lens to the lens support facilitates transfer back to the lens case. Tab 428b is closed to form a watertight seal with upper base cavity 440a. To retrieve the lens from the cassette, the tab 428a is lifted, which lifts the upper base chamber 440a, which lifts the displacement member 434, exposing the receptacle 431. Lens solution is drained through plug hole 431 to reservoir 419 (in the form of a drain chamber between the lens support and the bottom of the base). At this point, the lens 400 can be removed from the lens support with a single touch by the wearer. The bottom 419 of the base opens to allow removal of the solution and cleaning via any convenient means, such as a hinged base or door 439.

The base itself can also be a displacement member, such as when the lens and solution are loaded into the lid in an "upside down" configuration such as in Figure 4A; or in the box configuration in Figure 5C, which The case includes a raised base section 548 tied below the lens support 536 attached to the sliding perimeter post 505 surrounding the raised base section 548 circle. When cap 535 is screwed onto base 540, splines 549 in cap 535 engage lugs 551 on the outside of sliding perimeter post 505 to push sliding perimeter post 505 and lens support 536 below the lens solution . The air entry guide 527 includes a flexible wedge 552 that connects the bowl 553 to the peripheral edge of the air entry guide 527 . When cover 535 is screwed onto base 540, flexible wedge 552 holds open vent 555 so it is the last to close and air can escape from the cavity formed between bowl 553 and sliding post 505.

The lens support may be positioned parallel to the bottom of the base (as shown in Figures 2B and 2C) or may be angled relative to the bottom of the base (as shown in Figure 4B). The displacement member may take any form, including a hollow cylinder, a solid cylinder, or a plug mounted around the lens and lens support.

When a displacement member is included, a fill line may also be included in the base cavity to ensure that the lens wearer adds the correct volume of solution to fill the cartridge cavity.

The base may also contain a reservoir 419 for capturing the lens solution when the lens is lifted from the base. The reservoir can be anywhere in the base, including around the lens support (as shown in Figure 4A), below the lens support in a separate discharge chamber (as shown in Figure 4B), or in a portion of the base cavity (such as below and behind the lens support, as shown in Figure 4C).

Any combination of materials can be used for the base, so long as they meet the performance requirements described. cover

The box of the present invention further includes a lid. In conventional contact lens cases, the contact lens is seated in a molded plastic base having a bowl that receives the contact lens in a concave bowl-shaped upward position. As described herein, the case of the present invention stores and presents the lens in a convex position (without lens solution) for single-touch transfer to the wearer's finger.

The lid may be removably sealed to the case by any suitable means, including but not limited to screw or snap closures, to form a watertight seal.

In addition to sealing the box, the lid can also be designed to control the flow of air into the box when opened. What is desired is for the contact lens to remain on the lens support when opened, rather than sticking to the lid. To achieve this, the air entering the box when opened can be directed to travel first over the top of the lens. For boxes with two or more lid sections, the top-most lid may be the last to close and the first to open.

In order to exclude air when the box is closed, the sealing line of the cavity is tied at or near the highest point inside the cavity. The sealing line can be designed to ensure that the lens is fully submerged when the lens case is closed. When opened, air enters the cavity above the lens, or the cover may have space to direct incoming air above the lens. For lens cases with multiple opening tabs, such as the lens cases depicted in Figures 4B and 4C, the topmost tab 428b can be used to load lenses into the cavity, while the lower tab 428a opens the case for removal lens.

Two features have been found to be beneficial in directing air over the lens upon opening: air entry guides along the inner lid surface and air entry scoops at designed opening points such as within the seal line. The cassettes of the present invention may include one, both, or none of these features.

The air entry guide provides space for air to travel over the lens without being trapped or diverted, and also cooperates with the lens support to prevent the lens from lifting or sliding off the support structure until some air has entered the box over the lens . The contact area between the air entry guide and the lens is preferably low, less than about 50 mm ² or less than about 30 mm ² .

The air entry guides may be molded into the cover, tied to the inside surface of the cover or as a protrusion of the cover, or may be a separate structure disposed between the lens and cover when the case is sealed. When the case is opened, the air entry guide directs the air into the case along a designed path above the top of the lens, ensuring that the lens is held on the lens support in the desired convex orientation. The air entry guides are arranged in the direction in which the box lid travels when the box is opened. The air entry guides can have any orientation other than perpendicular to the desired air flow path. When the box is designed to open from the front, the air entry guides are preferably positioned from the front to the rear of the box, and the deliberate path is tied over the lenses from the front to the rear of the box.

Suitable air entry guides may include prongs 321 protruding from the cover around the perimeter of the lens, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. The prongs can be rigidly mounted to a support ring or molded plastic ring (FIG. 3A), or can be flexibly mounted to a flexible sheet such as an encapsulant (FIG. 3B). The prongs can be positioned radially around the perimeter of the contact lens, typically within 1 mm of the edge of the lens. The air entry guides may contain prongs positioned around the entire perimeter or primarily along the front side, the sides, or both. The prongs may be adjacent to each other as shown in Figure 3B, or may be spaced apart as shown in Figure 3A. When radial prongs are used, the optic zone of the lens may be free of prongs to ensure that air travels over the top of the lens while the prongs keep the edge of the lens from adhering to the cover.

The air entry guides may also be in the form of continuous or discontinuous (broken) ridges. The rib can be attached to the inner surface of the molded lid (FIG. 3C), or included via a separate molded structure (FIG. 3D). The ridges are aligned parallel to the path air enters when the box is opened. The ridges may be spaced apart by at least about 2 mm, about 2 to about 5 mm, or 2 to about 4.5 mm. The ridges can run in a straight line from front to back (Figure 3C and 3D), or can be curved around the optic zone (Figure 3E) to prevent interaction between the ridges and the contact lens, which can result in high shape memory hydrogels optical distortion in . The ridges may run "edge to edge" across the inner lid surface, or the beginning or end of the same may be offset from the edge, as shown in Figure 3G.

The ridges can also extend away from the lens, thereby forming recess(s) 337 that protrude upwardly from the cover surface, as shown in Figure 3H. Such recesses may act as air entry guides and air capture spaces described below during opening.

Ribs may have straight walls, may be wedge-shaped (eg 3G), may contain arcs, or may have one straight wall and one angled or arcuate wall. The angled or arcuate walls can be inclined along the curvature of the contact lens.

The rib height may be the same from the front to the rear of the rib (outer rib in Figure 3B), or may be greater at the front than the rear (Figures 3C, 3F, and 3G). The ridges may have a shorter profile above the optic zone, as shown by the central ridges in Figure 3C and the wedges in Figure 3G, or there may be gaps in the ridges ("broken ridges" 322b), as in shown in Figure 3F. An air entry guide comprising a central rib with decreasing rib height across the optic zone effectively guides air in the desired direction while also minimizing contact with the optic zone of the contact lens. As shown, different height profiles and shapes can be incorporated into a single air entry guide structure.

The ridges can have a height of at least about 2 mm, and the ridges can extend from the interior of the cover toward the contact lens, or can extend away from the contact lens and define separate air entry channels. The rib height may be at least about 2 mm at the highest point, such as at 522 (air entry guide outside the optic zone), and may be 0 to about 0.5 mm at the lowest point, such as in Figures 3C and 3G The rear of the ridge or the middle section of the central ridge in Figure 3D, Figure 3E, and Figure 3F. In embodiments that include ridges, where at least a portion of the ridges is below the peak ridge height of 0.5 mm, air bubbles may not propagate across the entire top of the lens, and the lens may stick to the bowl. Rib heights above about 4 mm may undesirably increase the size of the box and the volume of packaging material and lens solution required.

When using a straight rib with a shorter profile in the central rib 322a (FIG. 3D), the maximum length of the tapering profile along the rib is about 8.5 mm. When using a curved rib with a shorter profile in the central rib 322a (FIG. 3D), the maximum length of the tapering profile along the rib is about 9 mm.

In addition to minimizing the height profile of any portion of the ridges 322a transverse to the optic zone of the contact lens, adjacent ridges 322b can also be curved outside the optic zone. When including curved ridges, the diameter of the curved ridge regions may be up to 11 mm or between about 7 to about 11 mm or between about 8 to about 11 mm.

When the rib is part of a separate molded plastic frame, the rib may include a lateral support on the rear side of the rib. However, the height of the ridges should ideally maintain a distance of at least about 2 mm between the lens and the lateral support to provide the desired airflow. Preferably, when transverse supports are used, the transverse supports are located on the rear of the ridges and do not protrude or extend into the path defined by the air entry guides. Preferably, the air entry guide structure is free of transverse structures, such as transverse supports, or has less than 3, or 1, or no transverse supports.

When the air intake guide is a separate structure from the cover as shown in FIGS. 3D to 3F , the air intake guide may also include a full or partial ring around the air intake guide, the full or partial ring being the same as in FIG. 3E , respectively. 327a and 327b in Figure 3B are shown. When in use, such an air entry guide can be attached to the lens support by a hinge (not shown) opposite the front of the air entry guide to form a clamshell structure around the lens.

In addition to forming a sealed cavity to hold the lens and lens solution, the cover of the present invention can also cooperate with the lens support to maintain the lens near the center of the support with minimal contact between the lens optic and the support and cover. For lenses with high shape memory, the ridges can be designed so that any contact between the lens and the cover or lens support is temporary when the case is sealed.

Boxes with flip lids may also have air inlet holes 324 shown in Figures 3G and 3H and shown at 224 in Figure 2B. When included, the air inlet holes are located at the designed opening point within the cookable seal, which is the front of the box in Figure 3G. The holes may be directly aligned with the opening tabs as shown in FIGS. 3G and 3H , or may be offset but aligned with the opening tabs 228 as shown in FIG. 2B . In this embodiment, the apertures 324 project outwardly from the periphery of the contact lens rim by at least about 1 mm or at least about 2 mm and are located within the seal. The length of the protrusion is only limited by the desired size of the box. The air inlet holes have a width between about 2 mm and the inner diameter of the sealing arc 325 . The air entry hole can be shallower than the lid and can be sloped into the lid cavity, as shown in Figure 3G. In addition to the dimensions described above, the apertures may have any shape including, but not limited to, circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, or irregular. The case of the present invention may forego separate air entry holes, such as by providing a spacing of at least about 2 mm between the inner cover wall and the lens support at the opening tab.

Figure 3G is an inside view of the lid and skirt area. The lid will seal to the membrane base along seal line 326. The air inlet hole 324 is at the front of the cover and contains three broken air inlet guide ribs 322a (which are transverse to the middle of the optic zone, but have a shallow height in the optic zone) and 322b (which curve around the optic zone of the lens) ) before the segment. The box is opened by pulling up on tab 328, which begins to separate the lid from the base at the distal end of the air entry tab. The tabs can have any form, including foil or plastic tabs, grips, pull tabs, handles, or the like.

The case may also include a burp or air intake valve to allow air to enter the lens case and vent over the lens to maintain the lens on the lens support during opening of the case. bubble management

For some lenses, it may be desirable to minimize contact between the lens and any air bubbles in the case when the case is sealed. This can be achieved by designing the lens case cavity to accommodate the volume of solution covering the lens (preferably in all storage orientations). The lens cover may also include one or more air outlet channels to allow air trapped in the case to escape during closure and to minimize the amount of air in the closed lens case.

For cases, such as travel cases, which can be stored in a variety of orientations, it may be desirable to include features within the case to trap air bubbles away from the lenses. As discussed above, this may be more desirable for lenses with longer shape memory.

The cover of the present invention may further comprise at least one air trapping space remote from the lens optic zone for air in the sealed box to occupy. The air trapping spaces are designed so that air remains in at least one air trapping space away from the lens, regardless of the orientation of the box. The volume of the air capture space may be equal to or slightly larger than the volume of air sealed in the box, and any air that can diffuse into the box during storage, to ensure that all air present at the time of sealing and any air that may diffuse during storage Any air is kept away from the optic zone of the lens.

Air capture spaces can be designed in several ways. For example, as shown in Figure 3G, the cover may further include a depression or depression 329 above the center of the lens support to force any trapped air up around the perimeter 330 of depression 329 and away from the lens apex (not shown) . The depth of the indentation is selected so that when the box is sealed, the lowest point of the indentation in the interior of the lid, or any air entry guide, does not touch the apex of the lens. The gap between the optical zone and any air entry guides or indentations is between about 0.25 and about 2 mm. Figure 4A is a drawing of the exterior of the case including the lid of the present invention. The depressions 430 are surrounded by air capture channels 431 . The depression formed by the indent displaces any trapped air into the air capture channel. The diameter of the indentation can be at least about the diameter of the optic zone of the lens. The combination of indentation and air capture channel holds trapped air in positions ranging from upright (base down) to 90°. When the box is inverted, the air bubbles are above the edge of the lens and are not a problem.

The channel 431 may have the form of a ring as shown in Figure 4A, or may have any other connected shape that provides a segment above the center of the lid. For example, the air capture space may be in the form of a continuous channel around the inner sealing edge with sections above and below the apex of the cap, such as shown in Figure 4B, with 3 raised channel portions 431a. The size of the air capture channel can be determined based on the volume of air to be included in the box and the amount of air that will diffuse during storage, which can be easily calculated. The channels can have any cross-sectional shape, including rounded edges, semi-circular or semi-elliptical, rectangular or square. In some embodiments, the channel may have an inner width of about 1.5 to about 3 mm, or about 2 to about 3 mm.

Instead of or incorporated into the channel, the air capture space may contain at least two air compartments protruding from the cover along the inner sealing edge. The raised channel portion 431a in Figure 4B is an example of 3 air compartments connected in a continuous channel. The air compartments 331a may be linear or arcuate (as shown in FIG. 3H ), parallel or transverse to the air inlet direction, and may be separated by depressions or connected by connecting channels 337 . The air capture space may contain at least one, two, three, or more air pods, with or without connecting channels. The air compartment may be wider, taller, or both wider and taller than the connecting channel.

The air compartments and connecting channels can have any moldable cross-sectional shape, including rounded edges, semi-circular or semi-oval, rectangular or square. The connecting channel may have an inner width of about 1.5 to about 3 mm, or about 0.5 to about 2 mm in design to prevent air bubbles from leaving the chambers when it is desired that air bubbles pass between the chambers.

Air capture channels and air compartments may be included in the cover with or without indentations.

The lens support and cover can be designed to cooperate when in a sealed orientation to keep the lens near the center of the support structure without resting on the support structure or cover. This is more important for lenses with longer shape memory, such as silicone hydrogel lenses, and the optics of the lens may be distorted by prolonged contact with any packaging features or any air bubbles trapped in the case. Contact between the support, cover, and contact lens during storage and shipping may be acceptable for conventional hydrogel contact lenses because of the short shape memory of conventional hydrogel contact lenses.

The lens support can be designed in several configurations to provide the desired relief and support, as long as the primary function of providing sufficient relief and sufficient contact with the lens to ensure consistent "one touch" lens transfer to the fingers is met That's it. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the packaging arts that the packaging features described herein can be used in various combinations to achieve a desired single-touch box. For example, if the lens solution is trapped between the lens and the support, the efficiency of the drainage path can be increased, for example, by increasing the open area under the lens support, reducing the contact area between the lens and the support, reducing sharp edges and shallow discharge paths, adding discharge channels, with or without the use of tilt or lift members, or a combination thereof. Air entry guides and/or air entry holes can be added if the lens sticks to the cover when opened.

The benefits of the cassette of the present invention are evident in use. Figures 2A, 4A-4C, and 5A-5F include examples of cartridges of the present invention with different combinations of features. The drawings and descriptions are exemplary only and should not be construed as limiting the box design of the present invention.

FIG. 5A shows an exploded side view of a lens case including base 540 , base collar 541 , lens support 536 , air entry guide structure 533 , and cover 535 . The base and base collar can be snap-fit together, glued or welded together, or can be molded as one piece. When it is removably attached, the base can be opened or removed, and the lens, lens case cavity, or both can be rinsed with fresh lens solution.

The base collar is a cylinder that forms a cavity that accommodates the lens and lens support 536 . The interior of the base collar may include a shelf 542 to receive a lens support. The shelf may support a portion of the lens support (such as perimeter ring 509 or a portion of the perimeter ring), or may be molded to contour the underside of the lens support (as long as the shelf shape and configuration does not degrade drainage performance).

The lens support 536 rests within the base collar 541 . The lens support perimeter ring 509 can be expanded, or a second ring can be added below the perimeter ring to provide a better fit and mechanical durability within the collar. Any of the lens supports described above can be used in the lens case of Figure 5A. The outer wall of the base collar contains threads 543, with threads 543 on the interior of the cover 535 allowing the case to be screwed on to form a watertight seal.

The walls of the air entry guide ring 527 are tied to the displacement structure when the box is closed, which protrudes into the base collar cavity and displaces the lens solution, ensuring that the lens is fully submerged when the box is closed. When the cover is removed and air enters the guide structure, the lens solution level drops below the perimeter ring, allowing the lens solution to drain from the lens and lens support.

The lens case of FIG. 5A also includes an optional sliding seal formed by the inner wall of the base collar 541 and the outer vertical wall of the access guide ring 527 . When the cover is unscrewed from the base, the outer wall of the air entry guide ring 527 slides up with the cover, which allows air to enter the top of the collar cavity (above the lens), biasing the lens against the lens support.

In the sealed state (shown in FIG. 5B ), the lens 550 is maintained in the space (lens cavity) formed between the case cover 535 and the lens support 536 . The lens cavity can be designed such that the lens 550 (especially in the optic zone) is not compressed during shipping, and only minimally contacts the interior features of the case, and maintains integrity until the case is opened. Furthermore, the lens cavity should not provide excessive clearance between the lens and the internal box features such that the lens remains in the desired convex orientation relative to the box base during storage.

Figure 5C shows another lens case of the present invention. The base 540 and cover 535 have a conventional lens case structure, but have the lens support 536 and air entry guide ring 527 of the present invention. In FIG. 5C , the lens support has 6 hollow arms surrounded by vertical supports 547 in the form of peripheral columns that keep the lens support elevated from the interior of the base 540 . The lid and base are sealed via threads 543 .

In Figures 5D and 5F, the lens and solution are placed in the lid 535 on the air inlet ridge 522, and the box is closed by snapping the base to the lid along the removable seal 525. In Figure 5D the lens support is connected to the cover by lever 546, and in Figure 5F the lens support has vertical supports 547 in the form of compressible spring arm segments. Contact lens 550 rests under cover 535, on lens support 536. Lens support arm sections connect the distal end of each peripheral support to the lens base. Not all peripheral supports may require compressible arms for the lens supports to function as described herein. Figures 5D and 5F disclose levers and springs, respectively, but the lift structures can have various configurations (as described in detail above). The lens case of Figure 5E is similar to that of Figure 5D, except that the base cavity accommodates a lens support 536 for two lenses, rather than just one lens.

Typically, when the case is opened, the lens support 536 holds the lens in the desired convex position with minimal contact area to ensure efficient transfer of the lens to the user's fingers. The inner chamber 544 (indicated in Figure 5C) is designed to hold the correct volume of lens solution to keep the lens fully submerged during storage and to allow the lens, lens support 536, and cover 535 to function properly together.

The box is opened by any convenient means, such as: pulling up on the tab 528, which breaks the seal 526 (FIGS. 5D-5F); or unscrewing the lid from the base 540 or base collar 541 535 (Figures 5A-5C). Air is introduced into the box in a controlled manner and directed into the box by the air entry guide 522 so that the lens is deflected from the box cover 535 and maintained on the lens support 536 . This mild force, combined with the discharge of solution from lens 550 and lens support 536, maintains the lens substantially in a "ready to use" position on lens support 536. When the cover 535 is separated from the base, the lens solution drains from the lens and support.

5D, the lid 535 is lifted to pivot the lens support 536 up from the base via the lever arm 546 to expel the lens solution from the lens 550 and the lens support 536 and present the lens for transfer to the wearer's finger. The central optic zone of the lens 550 is generally not in contact with the arms, except at the peripheral supports 505 . The flat top area 501 provides resistance to enhance the ability to transfer the lens 550 to a finger with a "single touch".

The lid 535 and the receptacle 519 can be polypropylene or any other material that can be used for medical device packaging, and the base 540 can be formed of plastic.

As shown in Figures 5A-5F, the features of the box (including the lens support, cover, and air entry guide), however created, can be designed to interact with the lens outside the optic zone to prevent damage to the lens optics Area.

Because the contact area between the lens 550 and the lens support 536 is minimized and the lens solution is efficiently drawn off, the wearer can remove the lens 550 from the case with a single touch of a finger and adhere the convex side of the lens 550 to the finger . Thus, the apex of the lens 550 is located on the finger and can be applied directly to the eye with the concave portion of the lens directly on the eyeball. The wearer does not need to transfer the lens from the fingers of one hand to the fingers of the other hand as is common with current designs of contact lens cases. This improved series of steps is not only easier and more convenient for the user, but it also reduces contamination caused by bacteria carried on the user's fingers.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a cassette that effectively directs the lens solution away from the lens and lens support, and controls the ratio of the contact area between the finger and the lens to the area between the lens and the lens support, thereby ensuring that the finger and the lens support The surface tension between the lenses exceeds the surface tension between the lenses and the lens support. The lenses so presented adhere consistently to the fingers, thereby providing the wearer with a "single touch" lens transfer experience.

The cassettes of the present invention can be fabricated using known materials and procedures. The packaging material can be virgin, recycled, or a combination thereof.

As noted above, not all of the features described herein need to be incorporated into every case, and those of ordinary skill in the art can combine such features to provide a wide variety of single-touch cases using the teachings herein. For example, a lens support with a central lens support may be useful for lenses with moduli less than about 25 psi, new wearers not used to single-touch lens removal, or for wearers using a more aggressive touch Department wants. Experienced wearers and those using lighter touch may require a case with only perimeter supports. It will also be appreciated that the box of the present invention offers many opportunities to include decorative designs and features, such as in the design of perimeter supports and rings, arms, fins, air management pods and channels, and overall box shape and profile.

In summary, the contact lens case of the present invention incorporates several novel functionalities that can be combined as described herein in various combinations to provide the desired single-touch packaging , including the following.

Preventing the lens from rotating off the support can be accomplished by: A minimum of 3 contact points are included on the perimeter of the lens, which may be configured in an acute angled triangle.

Prevent the lens from translating horizontally across the support, which can be achieved by a horizontal or near-horizontal contact point near the perimeter of the lens, where the lens surface is more steeply angled (located at a diameter of at least about 5 mm, about 6 mm, or about 7 mm) outside the central area), or the contact point can be just outside the perimeter of the lens.

The lens is maintained in its neutral or near-neutral shape after discharge for lens transfer.

This can be achieved by minimizing contact between the lens apex and the support, which can be accomplished by providing a flat top section with about 0.5 to about 2 mm, about 0.5 to about 2 mm between the top of the flat top section and the lens apex A central lens support of about 1.5 mm, or about 0.8 to about 1 mm spacing, or leaving a gap of at least about 6 mm in diameter and cleared from the lens apex to about the level of the lens base. Resistance to fingers when tapped

It is beneficial to increase the finger surface area and to control the tap force and contact time when tapping.

For lenses with low modulus, this requires a hardened structure below the lens apex, which also improves transfer consistency for lenses with higher modulus, including polysiloxane hydrogels. When present, the height of the structure is not lower than the base of the lens. The support structure may also be less than 2 mm below the apex of the lens. • The shape of the surface may be flat or slightly concave (eg down to a radius of curvature of about 10 mm), but less preferably slightly convex (down to a radius of curvature of about 10 mm) or more concave ( e.g. down to a radius of curvature of about 6 mm). • The diameter of the surface should be about 1 to 10 mm, preferably 6 to 9 mm (to match fingertip size). • The surface does not need to be continuous - it can consist of a series of points or lines.

The optic zone is free floating and contact with the lens support is temporary or non-existent during storage. This can be achieved by having any central supports slightly below the contour of the lens (so that the lens only contacts the supports at the perimeter). Example

The following is used in the following examples. Buffer solution: 1000 g DI water, 13.55 gm NaCl, 27 gm boric acid, 5 gm sodium borate, 0.3 gm EDTA, and have a pH of about 7.4. Packaging solution: RevitaLens Complete (alexidine 0.00016%; polyquaternary ammonium salt-1 0.0003% (PQ-1); EDTA. Polypropylene: isotactic polypropylene homopolymer with an MFR of 24 g/10 min from Total (Lumicene M3766) Sealing Film: Multilayer film comprising layers of oriented polypropylene (12 µm), aluminum foil (50 µm), and polyester film (12 µm). Examples 1 to 6 and Comparative Examples 1 to 2

Several lens support configurations were evaluated to determine support features that would provide the desired lens support, lens solution drainage, and lens transfer. Each of the lens supports evaluated was 3D printed on a Form 2 using Formlabs Formlabs clear resin. The lens support series is printed with a drain channel terminating in a 90° lever to allow the support and lens to be lowered and lifted from the packaging solution chamber measuring 30 mm x 45 mm x 25 mm.

The 1-Day ACUVUE MOIST contact lenses were removed from their packaging and placed on each lens support while the support was immersed in the packaging solution to allow complete wetting and the lens was centered on the support. Immerse the lens support and lens in the packaging solution chamber for at least 5 seconds to ensure complete immersion and no air bubbles remaining under the lens. Using an eyedropper, the packaging solution was withdrawn to expose the peripheral support. The support is then slowly pivoted from the remaining packaging solution using a lever and allowed to drain until the solution appears to have drained from the lens and support or after about 10 seconds, whichever is earlier. The lens was evaluated for its permanent fluid film, solution reservoir, and internal bridge between the lens and the support. Photographs were taken and lens centration, the area of fluid trapped between the lens support arm and the lens, and lens deformation were evaluated.

To ensure a consistent tap surface and to simulate a low tack finger, rubber nitrile gloves were worn on the hands used for the tap test. The test was repeated at least 5 times for each support design, with the lenses replaced after 2 repetitions.

5/5 無 小 中度 中度 鏡片在多次測試中變形。 剩餘的溶液圍繞鏡片-支撐件接觸點聚集，特別是在前臂處。 2

5/5 無 小至中等 輕微至中等 中度 鏡片在排放的早期階段中變形很多並固持溶液，但不影響輕拍 3

20/20 無 小 輕微 快 優異的排放 4

  5/5 無 小 輕微 中度 鏡片在排放的早期階段中變形很多並固持溶液 CE1

0/5 無 中度 嚴重 快 不良的排放-鏡片包裹在中央柱上 大部分在第二次或第三次嘗試之後不輕拍 5

5/5 無 小 輕微 中等至快 非常好的初始排放，接著是快速且幾乎完全排放任何剩餘溶液 6

5/5 無 小 輕微至中等 慢 不良的初始排放。 進一步排放係慢的、相對徹底且一致的，具有初始橋，貯器排放良好。 CE2

20/20 無 小 嚴重 中度 在每次測試中都非常黏在支撐件上。 良好地排放初始主體溶液，但在鏡片-支撐件接觸點周圍一致地留下溶液。 CE3

0/2 無 中等至大 中等至嚴重 慢 包裹至輪輻上的鏡片給出較差的排放。 凹陷幾何形狀提供不足的手指接觸 各鏡片之排放係按以下特性分類： 永久流體膜（「Perm. Films ）係形成於鏡片支撐結構與鏡片的（外）表面之間且在排放後不斷裂的膜。使用以下評分量表： •      嚴重（鏡片周長＞ 50%被覆蓋） •      中等（鏡片周長＜ 50%被覆蓋） •      無 溶液貯器（「貯器」）係在已發生排放之後，保留在鏡片內部上的較大體積之溶液。使用以下評分量表： •      大（大量流體可見，總體積估計＞ 50 µl） •      中等（一些流體可見，總體積估計為20至50 µl） •      小（極少/無流體可見，總體積估計＜ 20 µl） 內部流體橋（「橋」）係流體彎月面(meniscus)在支撐結構與鏡片之間橋接的區域。使用以下評分量表： •      嚴重（＞ 15 mm的線性橋） •      中等（5至15 mm的線性橋） •      輕微（＜ 5 mm的線性橋） 排放速度係將鏡片自溶液中提出直到未觀察到更多的排放變化之間的時間。使用以下評分量表： •      慢（＞ 5秒） •      中等（2至5秒） •      快（＜ 2秒） The results are shown in Table 1 along with representative photographs and CAD drawings showing the configuration of the lens support. Table 1 Ex.# supporting item Representative Emission Photos 1st tap Perm membrane receptacle bridge Emission rate Observed 1

5/5 none Small Moderate Moderate The lens deformed in multiple tests. The remaining solution collects around the lens-support contact point, especially at the forearm. 2

5/5 none small to medium mild to moderate Moderate The lens deforms a lot in the early stages of discharge and holds the solution, but does not affect the tap 3

20/20 none Small slight quick excellent emissions 4

5/5 none Small slight Moderate The lens deforms a lot and retains the solution in the early stages of discharge CE1

0/5 none Moderate serious quick Poor Emissions - Lenses wrap around the central post mostly not tapped after the second or third attempt 5

5/5 none Small slight medium to fast Very good initial discharge followed by rapid and almost complete discharge of any remaining solution 6

5/5 none Small mild to moderate slow Bad initial emissions. Further discharge was slow, relatively thorough and consistent, with initial bridge, and good reservoir discharge. CE2

20/20 none Small serious Moderate Very sticky to the support in every test. The initial bulk solution drained well, but left solution consistently around the lens-support contact point. CE3

0/2 none medium to large Moderate to severe slow Lenses wrapped to spokes give poor emissions. Recessed geometry provides insufficient finger contact The discharge of each lens is classified by the following characteristics: Permanent fluid films (“Perm. Films ) are films that form between the lens support structure and the (outer) surface of the lens and do not break after discharge. The following scoring scale is used: • Severe (lens circumference > 50% covered) • Moderate (lens circumference < 50% covered) • None A solution reservoir ("reservoir") is a larger volume that remains on the interior of a lens after a discharge has occurred the solution. Use the following rating scale: • Large (a lot of fluid visible, total volume estimated > 50 µl) • Moderate (some fluid visible, total volume estimated 20 to 50 µl) • Small (little/no fluid visible, total volume estimated < 20 µl) Internal fluid bridges ("bridges") are areas where the fluid meniscus bridges between the support structure and the lens. The following rating scale was used: • Severe (> 15 mm linear bridge) • Moderate (5 to 15 mm linear bridge) • Slight (< 5 mm linear bridge) Discharge velocity was the lens was lifted from solution until no observation was made More time between emissions changes. Use the following rating scale: • Slow (> 5 seconds) • Moderate (2 to 5 seconds) • Fast (< 2 seconds)

As the packaging solution is drained from the contact lens, a film of the packaging solution can form between the edge of the lens and the peripheral ring. The film formed at the beginning of the discharge was good, and for lens supports with good discharge, the film broke before the discharge was complete. Once the discharge has stabilized, residual film remaining can interfere with lens transfer. The membrane system noted in the table is the residual membrane remaining after the discharge has stabilized.

Examples where the lens is deformed and wrapped to the support structure tends to hold more solution in the lens. This can be detrimental to the pat (Comparative Example 1) or to slow emissions (Example 4). The configuration of both the peripheral support and the central support is important in reducing and preventing wrapping. The use of 6 peripheral supports (Example 3) significantly reduces lens wrapping compared to 4 peripheral supports (Example 4). The poorly distributed central support (Comparative Example 1) had more wrapping than the well distributed central support (Example 3). The peripheral ring also reduces lens wrapping due to the surface tension of the film formed around the perimeter of the lens. Example 1 shows less lens wrapping than Example 2 (no rings).

Example 5 was the same lens support as Example 3, but with a perimeter ring added around the perimeter support. Both Examples 5 and 3 show excellent discharge rates (medium to fast and fast, respectively) and excellent discharge efficiency, as evidenced by no permanent fluid film, small solution reservoir, and only slight internal fluid bridges.

Example 6 is the same lens support design as Example 2, but the arms are connected to the solid fins of the perimeter support. Filling in the arm structure slows the discharge rate, but the discharge efficiency is the same as in Example 2, demonstrating that the lens support of the present invention with open arms or solid fins provides good discharge and consistent lens transfer. A comparison between Example 2 and Example 6 also shows that the discharge rate can be reduced by removing structures below the lens support, such as solid fins.

The lens support of Comparative Example 2 had a similar structure to Example 1, but with curved side sections that formed severe internal fluid bridges that caused the lens to stick to the lens support, This results in an undesirably high lens-support contact area. The increased contact resulted in a 0% transfer rate when tapped with the fingers. Therefore, support structures that form more solution bridges are less likely to tap successfully. The lens support of Comparative Example 3 has a fully curved lens support that has a smaller radius than the lens support of Comparative Example 2, but still demonstrates undesired solution reservoirs and internal fluid bridges . Comparative Example 3 also had a fully curved top section that provided insufficient contact area between the lens and the finger when tapped (0% first tap success). Comparative Examples 3 to 4 and Examples 7 to 8

 

5/5 無 小 輕微 快 在支撐結構周圍的最小初始流體滯留。初始固持大量流體的唯一地方係在前臂周圍。 CE3

 

2/5 無 小 中度 快 中等初始排放。遭受鏡片畸形。 許多貯器在臂上。 CE4

4/6 無 培養基 中度 中度 初始有相當大量的捕集溶液。大部分排放良好。 一些流體留在中心處。鏡片頂點偶爾凹陷 8

5/5 無 小 輕微 快 初始有相當大量的捕集溶液，但非常快速的排放＜2s。 偶爾鏡片變形或滑動。 The lens support test was repeated as described in Example 1 using the lens supports shown in Table 2. Table 2 Ex. # supporting item Representative Emission Photos 1st tap Perm membrane receptacle bridge Emission rate Observed 7

5/5 none Small slight quick Minimum initial fluid retention around the support structure. The only place to initially hold large amounts of fluid is around the forearm. CE3

2/5 none Small Moderate quick Moderate initial emissions. Suffering from lens deformities. Many receptacles are on the arms. CE4

4/6 none culture medium Moderate Moderate There is initially a considerable amount of trapping solution. Most emissions are good. Some fluid remains at the center. Occasionally sunken lens apex 8

5/5 none Small slight quick There is a considerable amount of trapping solution initially, but a very rapid discharge <2s. Occasional lens deformation or slippage.

The lens support of Example 7 had the same structure as Example 1, except that the 4 side sections were removed, which resulted in faster and more efficient drainage. The lens supports of Examples 1, 5, and 7 show that lens supports with a substantially flat top area and perimeter supports with various side or center column supports provide both excellent drainage and lens transfer. Examples 8 and 9 show that drainage can be improved by removing some or all of the side sections from the lens support. Comparative Examples 3 and 4 and Example 8 show that the arms in the flat top section can be removed and the tops of the side sections can provide the functionality of the flat top. Comparing Example 8 with Comparative Example 4, it can be seen that drainage and lens transfer can be improved by widening the width of the central void at the base. The lens support of Comparative Example 4 provided slightly worse drainage than Example 8 because the packaging solution could pool in the base of the cone in Comparative Example 4. This can easily be improved by widening the width of the central void at the base (Example 8). Comparing Example 8 with Comparative Example 3 shows that increasing the angle of the side arm away from the lens reduces solution bridges and improves the rate of discharge. Comparative Example 5

5/5 無 小至中等 輕微至中等 中度 鏡片在排放的早期階段中變形很多並固持溶液，但不影響輕拍 CE5

0/5 無 中等至大 中度 慢 合理的初始排放。在初始自溶液中取出之後有最小的進一步排水。 殘留在鏡片上的溶液妨礙轉移至手指。 實例9至10及比較例6至7 Example 2 was repeated except that the vent gaps between the elongated peripheral supports were filled. The results (with data from Example 2 reproduced for ease of reference) are shown in Table 3 below. table 3 Ex.# supporting item Representative Emission Photos 1st tap Perm membrane receptacle bridge Emission rate Observed 2

5/5 none small to medium mild to moderate Moderate The lens deforms a lot in the early stages of discharge and holds the solution, but does not affect the tap CE5

0/5 none medium to large Moderate slow Reasonable initial discharge. There was minimal further drainage after initial removal from solution. The solution remaining on the lens prevents transfer to the fingers. Examples 9 to 10 and Comparative Examples 6 to 7

 

5/5 無 小至中等 輕微至中等 中度 不良的初始排放與顯著的鏡片變形。 在一些情況下，完全排空的鏡片使其彈回原狀（儘管此對於成功轉移而言不是必需的）。 10

 

6/8 無 小 輕微至中等 快 優異的立即排放。 鏡片能夠圍繞支撐件上滑動。 鏡片有時不彈回原狀，此使輕拍更困難。 CE6

2/5 無 小 輕微 快 優異的立即排放。 在排水期間鏡片移動很多。 鏡片常卡在輪輻上。 對輕拍無阻力使其難以轉移。鏡片頂點偶爾凹陷 CE7

0/3 無 小至中等 中度 中度 鏡片中心塌陷至六邊形中央環上，且不「彈」回原狀。 鏡片在排放期間不移動。 The procedure of Example 1 was repeated, but the lens supports including peripheral supports but without any central supports were evaluated. The results are shown in Table 4 below. Table 4 Ex. # supporting item Representative Emission Photos 1st tap Perm membrane receptacle bridge Emission rate Observed 9

5/5 none small to medium mild to moderate Moderate Poor initial discharge and significant lens distortion. In some cases, a fully emptied lens allows it to spring back into place (although this is not necessary for successful transfer). 10

6/8 none Small mild to moderate quick Excellent immediate discharge. The lens can slide around the support. The lenses sometimes do not snap back into place, which makes tapping more difficult. CE6

2/5 none Small slight quick Excellent immediate discharge. The lens moves a lot during draining. Lenses are often stuck on the spokes. No resistance to dab making it difficult to transfer. Occasionally sunken lens apex CE7

0/3 none small to medium Moderate Moderate The center of the lens collapses onto the hexagonal central ring and does not "spring" back into place. The lens does not move during discharge.

Examples 9, 10 and Comparative Example 6 show significant lens movement during opening, which can be improved by providing one or more positioning guides along the top of one or more of the perimeter supports. Examples 9 and 10 show that lens supports with only peripheral supports and no central post provide good drainage and lens transfer. Example 10 had an 8 mm gap between opposing peripheral supports with one side of the discharge channel extending to the center of the supports. The lens support of Comparative Example 6 was similar to the lens support of Example 10, but without the peripheral support arms extending below the center of the lens. The lack of a structure in the center of the lens causes the lens to collapse in the center during drainage or when attempting lens transfer, and also provides insufficient resistance during lens transfer. The ACUVUE Moist lenses used have very low modulus and lenses with higher modulus, such as polysiloxane hydrogels, do not collapse so easily. As shown by Examples 9 and 10, extending at least one peripheral support arm below the center of the lens reduces lens collapse in the center and provides good lens transfer. The flat dome can be designed to have enough surface area to attract the lens to the dome to prevent lens movement (Comparative Example 10), but it also prevents tapping. Examples 11 to 14

Example 7 was repeated varying the diameter of the peripheral ring as shown in Table 5. A support with a peripheral ring of 16 mm traps the solution between the lens and the support. Both the supports with 18 and 25 mm perimeter rings provided good drainage with little receptacles for trapping packaging solution. Although the 16 mm diameter used in the support of Example 14 was too small for a 14.2 mm diameter lens, it would be acceptable for a lens with a smaller diameter. table 5 Ex. # Ring Diameter(mm) 1st tap Observed 11 14 2/10 Of the 8 failures, 5 were transferred on the second transfer attempt. Very good drainage, but the outer diameter still seems to stick to the ring. 12 16 5/10 Of the 5 failures, 3 were transferred on the second transfer attempt. 13 18. 8/10 Of the 2 failures, 2 were transferred on the second transfer attempt. 14 twenty three 5/10 Of the 5 failures, 4 were transferred on the second transfer attempt Examples 15 to 16 and Comparative Examples 8 to 10

Several lens support configurations were evaluated to determine support features that would provide the desired lens support, lens solution drainage, and lens transfer. Each of the lens supports evaluated was 3D printed on a Form 2 using Formlabs Formlabs white resin. The lens support series is printed with an "L" shaped grip printed on the opposite side of the lens support to allow the support and lens to be lowered and lifted from the packaging solution chamber measuring 30 mm x 45 mm x 25 mm .

The 1-Day ACUVUE MOIST contact lenses were removed from their packaging and placed on each lens support while the support was immersed in the packaging solution to allow complete wetting and the lens was centered on the support. Immerse the lens support and lens in the packaging solution chamber for at least 5 seconds to ensure complete immersion and no air bubbles remaining under the lens. The lens holder is slowly lifted out of the chamber and placed on a support similar in size to the solution chamber, but with only two side support grips. The lens holder is allowed to drain for approximately 10 seconds (until the drain stops changing), after which drain and lens transfer is assessed. Photographs were taken and lens centration, the area of fluid trapped between the lens support arm and the lens, and lens deformation were evaluated.

To ensure a consistent tap surface and to simulate a low tack finger, rubber nitrile gloves were worn on the hands used for the tap test. The test was repeated at least 5 times for each support design, with the lenses replaced after 2 repetitions.

  0/2 嚴重 大 嚴重 慢 膜在鏡片與環之間形成且不斷裂 CE9

 

0/5 中度 大 嚴重 慢 不良的排放 相當大的溶液橋接及貯器 CE 10

 

0/5 無 大 嚴重 慢 不好的排放。鏡片固持大量溶液。 自池中取出之後沒有進一步排放。 15  

4/5 無 小至中等 輕微至中等 中度 當膜在環與鏡片邊緣之間形成時，排放係良好的。 16

7/10 無 輕微至中等 輕微至中等 快   The results are shown in Table 6 along with representative photographs and CAD drawings showing the configuration of the lens support. Table 6 Ex. # supporting item Representative Emission Photos 1st tap Perm membrane receptacle bridge Emission rate Observed CE8

0/2 serious Big serious slow Membrane forms between lens and ring without breaking CE9

0/5 Moderate Big serious slow Poor discharge sizable solution bridging and receptacle CE 10

0/5 none Big serious slow Bad emissions. The lens holds a large amount of solution. There was no further discharge after removal from the pool. 15

4/5 none small to medium mild to moderate Moderate Emissions are good when the film is formed between the ring and the edge of the lens. 16

7/10 none mild to moderate mild to moderate quick

Draining and therefore tapping is better when a vertical or angled fluid film is formed between the lens and the drain receptacle (the base of the package or test setup) and breaks before the tap. Example 15 formed a fluid film between the lens perimeter and the lower perimeter ring and drained well. Although having very similar geometries to Example 15, Comparative Example 10 and Comparative Example 9 did not form vertical films and both discharged poorly. The lens support of Example 15 (which has a flat top section and straight side sections with a width of 7 mm at the elbow) provides good drainage with minimal lens-lens support contact, which provides consistent first finger taps transfer (80%).

In the case of Example 15 when the film was permanently broken, the lens also did not discharge.

Horizontal membranes are not sufficient for discharge. In Comparative Example 8 the film was formed between the lens and the outer ring, however the lens still did not drain. Horizontal films also tend to be more difficult to break, and thus hinder lens extraction.

The present invention includes the following embodiments/elements/features in any order and in any combination. 1. A contact lens case comprising: a support for maintaining a contact lens in a convex position on the support during storage and when opening the case; wherein the lens has a peripheral edge and a the lens profile; the support has a profile that does not substantially match the lens profile; and the wetted contact between the support and the lens is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² . 2. A contact lens case comprising: a case base; a case cover; and a support for holding a contact lens with a peripheral edge and a lens profile relative to one of the case bases. in a convex position; wherein the base and the cover are sealed to form a cavity comprising the support, the contact lens, and a packaging solution; wherein the lens support comprises a plurality of peripheral supports, the plurality of peripheral supports The supports have a distal end that extends at least 1 mm beyond the peripheral edge of the contact lens and provides at least 3, 3 to 14, 4 to 14, 3 to 8, or 4 along the peripheral supports to 8, 4 to 6, or 6 points of contact with the edge of the contact lens and between the support and the lens after the case has been opened and the packaging solution has been directed away from the lens and the support The wetting contact is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² . 3. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein the support allows the lens solution to be drained from the lens and the support upon removal from the lens solution without entrapment between the lens and the lens support. Set packaging solution. 4. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein the lens further comprises an optic zone, and the lens support further comprises a substantially flat top section below at least a portion of the contact lens optic zone, The top section has an open structure. 5. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein the support further comprises a void below at least a portion of the contact lens optic zone. 6. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein when the case is sealed, the contact lens is maintained in an uncompressed state. 7. The contact lens case of claim 1, wherein the support comprises at least two peripheral supports. 8. The contact lens case of claim 2 or 7, wherein the peripheral supports are distributed around the periphery of the lens. 9. The contact lens case of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lens comprises a vertex positioned at the center of the optical zone, and the support further comprises a central support having A height of not more than 0.5 mm below the apex of the contact lens, measured at the perimeter of the lens. 10. The contact lens case of claim 9, wherein the central lens support further comprises about 1 to about 10 mm, about 3 mm to about 9 mm, about 5 mm to about 9 mm, or about 6 mm to about A diameter of 9 mm. 11. The contact lens case of claim 9 or 10, wherein the central lens support has an open structure. 12. The contact lens case of claim 11, wherein the central lens support comprises a central post below the lens apex. 13. The contact lens case of claim 11, wherein the central lens support comprises a plurality of arms, each arm comprising: a flat top section, an optional side section, and an optional peripheral support a shoulder transition connecting the top section with one of the optional side sections, and an optional elbow transition connecting the optional side with one of the optional perimeter supports. 14. The contact lens case of claim 13, wherein the arms in the flat top section are connected to each other at a center point below the lens apex, or to an open center below the lens apex Full or partial ring. 15. The contact lens case of claim 13, wherein the plurality of arms are in the form of fins attached to the case base. 16. The contact lens case of claim 13, wherein an end of at least some of the plurality of arms is attached to the peripheral lens supports and protrudes upward, and the distal ends of the arms form the Flat top section. 17. The contact lens case of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least some of the distal ends of the peripheral supports are connected to vertical supports that The isoperimeter support is lifted from the lens base. 18. The case of claims 2 to 17, further comprising at least a portion of a ring surrounding the distal ends of the peripheral supports and at least 2 mm beyond the peripheral edge of the contact lens. 19. The cassette of claims 13 to 18, further comprising three to eight arms. 20. The cassette of claims 13 to 18, further comprising three to six arms. 21. The case of claims 13 to 20, wherein at least two of the arms have a Y shape. 22. The cassette of claims 13 to 20 having 3 Y-shaped arms. 23. The box of claims 13 to 20, comprising 2 straight arms and 2 Y-shaped arms. 24. The box of claims 21 to 23, wherein the Y-shaped arms comprise a curve across a top portion of the Y. 25. The box of any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the arms are straight. 26. The case of claim 18, wherein the at least partial ring has a diameter of between about 16 and about 25 mm, between about 18 and about 25 mm, or between about 18 and about 24 mm. 27. The box of claim 4, wherein the substantially flat top portion has a deflection of 0.5 mm, about 0.5 to about 2 mm, 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.5 to about 1.5 mm from the vertex of the contact lens in an undeformed state. A height of about 0.8 to about 1 mm. 28. The box of any one of claims 9 to 27, wherein the support further comprises a central piece (fillet), the central piece being positioned at the center of the flat top section and having a longest dimension across it. of about 0.1 to about 3 mm; about 0.1 to about 2 mm, or a width of less than 1.5 mm. 29. The box of claims 13 to 28, wherein each of the arms and peripheral supports has one of about 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 0.7 mm width. 30. The box of claims 13 to 29, wherein the arms have a width that provides partial formability and efficient packaging solution discharge upon opening. 31. The case of claims 13 to 30, wherein each arm has a height in the flat top section of about 0.5 to about 5 mm. 32. The case of any one of claims 9 to 29, wherein the flat top has a center point at the center of the lens support, and the shoulders are radially about the flat top center set up. 33. The case of claim 32, wherein the arms are attached at the center point, and each arm has a length of about 1.5 to about 4 mm from the shoulder to the center point. 34. The box of any one of claims 9 to 33, wherein the flat top section and the side section of the arm are at an angle of at most about 15°, or between about 1° and the vertical. between about 10°. 35. The box of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the angle between the side section and the peripheral support is between about 60° and about 120°, or about 80° and about 100° between. 36. The box of any preceding claim, wherein the arms are connected at the center of the flat top portion. 37. The cassette of any preceding claim, wherein the arms are distributed radially around the center of the support structure. 38. The case of any preceding claim, wherein the base is substantially flat. 39. The case of any preceding claim, wherein the lens does not contact the arm side sections. 40. The cassette of any preceding claim, wherein the arm side sections are straight. 41. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the support is made of a polymer having a contact angle greater than 100°. 42. The case of any preceding claim, wherein the lens support is disposed at an angle of at least about 20° to the case base. 43. The box of any one of claims 2 to 42, wherein the peripheral supports are parallel to the box base and at least about 4 mm or at least about 5 mm from the box base. 44. The case of any preceding claim, further comprising a means for lifting the lens support from the lens solution. 45. The case of claim 44, wherein the lift member is selected from the group consisting of levers, springs, hinges, pivot arms, folds, mechanical traps, handles, and combinations thereof. 46. The case of claim 54, wherein the lift member is formed by tilting the lens support away from the base to about 15° to about 80°, about 20° to about 70°, about 30° with respect to horizontal To an angle of about 60°, or about 40° to about 60°, the lens is lifted from the packaging solution. 47. The case of any preceding claim, further comprising a receptacle for capturing packaging solution when the lens and support are separated from the case base. 48. A contact lens case comprising: a support for holding a contact lens with a convex surface in a convex position relative to the support; and a lens-facing surface comprising at least one air entry guides, the at least one air entry guide configured such that when the cassette is opened by a user, the at least one air entry guide directs air into the cassette over the convex surface of the contact lens to reduce the convexity The incidence of adhesion of the lens surface to the lens-facing surface. 49. The contact lens case of claim 48, wherein the inside of the case defines a cavity containing the support, at least one air entry guide, the contact lens, and a packaging solution; As the lens exits the packaging solution, but until contacted by a user's finger, the lens maintains a convex shape on the lens support, and the support contacts the lens at at least two points distributed around the perimeter of the lens . 50. The case of claim 48 or 49, wherein the lens has a profile and the support has a profile that does not substantially match the profile of the lens. 51. The case of claims 48 to 50, wherein the contact area between the support and the lens behind the case is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² . 52. The case of claims 48 to 50, wherein the contact area between the at least one air entry guide and the lens is less than about 50 mm ² or less than about 30 mm ² . 53. The case of claims 48 to 52, wherein the air entry guides are integral with the lens facing surface as protrusions from the lens facing surface or as recesses in the lens facing surface. 54. The case of claims 48 to 52, wherein the air entry guides are part of a separate structure disposed between the convex lens surface and the cover lens facing surface. 55. The box of claims 48 to 54, wherein the air entry guides are aligned parallel to a path of air entry when the box is opened. 56. The box of claims 48 to 55, wherein the air entry guides are spaced apart by at least about 2 mm, about 2 to about 5 mm, or 2 to about 4.5 mm. 57. The case of claims 48 to 56, wherein the contact lens comprises an optic zone and a curved lens side section between the optic zone and the peripheral edge, and the air entry guides are A straight line from the front to the rear of the box, a curve around the optic zone, or a combination thereof runs. 58. The box of claims 48 to 57, wherein the air entry guides transverse to the optic zone have a shorter profile above the optic zone. 59. The box of claims 48 to 58, wherein the air entry guides comprise continuous ridges, discontinuous ridges, and combinations thereof. 60. The box of claims 48 to 59, wherein the air entry guides have a maximum height of at least about 2 mm, or about 2 mm to about 4 mm. 61. The box of claim 60, wherein the air entry guide profile above the optical zone has a height of about 0.5 mm or less. 62. The box of claims 1 and 48, further comprising at least one base section and at least one lid-facing surface that together form a reversible seal a cavity containing the support, the contact lens, and the lens solution in the cavity. 63. The box of claims 2 to 62, wherein the cover-facing surface is an inner surface of a box cover; and the box further comprises at least one base section that forms the cover with the cover. a cavity containing the lens support, the lens, and a packaging solution; the case further comprising at least one opening tab for starting the lid along with a sealing line forming the cavity and separation of the base. 64. The box of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an opening tab for starting the lid and the base along a sealing line forming a sealed cavity. Seat separation with at least about 2 mm spacing between the sealing line and the lens support at the opening tab. 65. The box of claims 48 to 61 and 63 to 64, wherein the air entry tab further comprises at least one air entry guide. 66. The case of claims 48 to 61 and 63 to 65, wherein the lens support, the lens facing surface, and at least one air entry guide cooperate to maintain the lens centered about the support, and in the lens , there is minimal contact between the support and at least one air entry guide. 67. The case of claim 66, wherein the contact between the lens, the at least one air entry guide, and the support is temporary. 68. The case of claims 48 to 61 and 63 to 67, further comprising an air capture space remote from the lens optic zone for air in the cavity to occupy. 69. The case of claim 68, wherein the air remains in the air-capturing space away from the lens, regardless of case orientation. 70. The box of claims 69 to 69, wherein the air capture space has a volume equal to or slightly greater than the volume of air to be sealed in the box. 71. The box of any preceding claim, wherein the base and the lid are a single integral part. 72. The case of any preceding claim, wherein the base and the lens support are a single integral part. 73. The case of any preceding claim, wherein the base, the lens support, and the cover are a single integral part. 74. The box of claims 2 to 47 and 62 to 73, wherein when closed, the lid and the base form a watertight seal. 75. The case of claim 75, wherein the seal is selected from a screw cap seal or a snap seal. 76. The cassette of claims 74 to 75, further comprising a burp valve. 77. The case of claims 74 to 76, wherein the base comprises two sections, a lens support section and a lens solution holding section. 78. The case of claims 2 to 47 and 74 to 77, further comprising a spring below the lens support that lifts the lens support from the lens solution when the lens case is opened . 79. The case of claim 77, wherein the lens solution holding section forms a seal around the lens support, and the lens solution is introduced into the lens holding section, and the contact lens is placed on the lens on the support. 80. The box of claim 79, comprising two lids, one lid sealed to the solution retaining section and engaging the solution retaining section when opened, exposing the lens support section, and the other lid Open to expose the solution holding section. 81. The cassette of any preceding claim, further comprising at least one displacement member. 82. The case of claims 2 to 47 and 62 to 73, wherein the lens is placed in the lid with a lens solution in a concave orientation, the case is secured by the lens support facing the concave lens The base is placed subsurface on top of the lid and the base and lid are sealed to form a watertight seal to close, and for storage and opening, the lens case is turned over so the lens is attached with a A convex location is provided on the lens support.

It should be understood that the present invention is to be determined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

101: Flat top section 101b: Y shape 102: Shoulder transition 103: Side Section/Side 103a: Angle 103b: Angle 104: Elbow / Elbow Transition 105: Peripheral Supports/Peripheral Support Sections/Ring Support Structure 105c: Peripheral supports 106: Point 106a: Void/Central Piece 107: Central column/column 108: Column 109: Partial perimeter ring/full ring/partial perimeter ring segment 110: Pillars/Supports 111: Clearance/Open Channel 112: point 113: Drain channel/drain trough 114: Ran 115: Channel Components 120: Pedestal Floor 136: Lens support 147: Vertical Support 215: Extended discharge channel 228: Tabs 235: Cover 236: Lens Support 237: Spring 240: Pedestal 245: Flexible Attachments/Hinges 321: Fork 322a: Rib 322b: Rib 324: Air inlet hole 325: Seal Arc 326: Seal Line 327a: full ring 327b: Partial ring 328: Tabs 329: Debossed / Debossed 330: Peripheral 331a: Air compartment 337: Recess/Connection Channel 400: Lens 405: Peripheral supports 419: Receptacle/bottom 428a: Tabs 428b: Tabs 430: Displacement Member/Indentation 431: Plug hole/air capture channel 431a: Raised channel section 434: Displacement member 439: Door 440a: Upper base chamber 501: Flat top area 505: Sliding Perimeter Posts/Sliding Posts/Perimeter Supports 509: Perimeter Ring 519: Receptacle 522: Air entry rib/air entry guide 525: Removable seal 526: Seals 527: Air Inlet Guide / Air Inlet Guide Ring 528: Tabs 533: Air entry guide structure 535: Cover 536: Lens Support 540: Pedestal 541: Pedestal collar 542: Shelving 543: Thread 544: Inner Chamber 546: Lever / Lever Arm 547: Vertical Support 548: Raised base section 549: Rack 550: Lens 551: lugs 552: Flexible Wedge 553: Bowl 555: Open vent

The present invention will be better understood from the accompanying drawings in which: [FIG. 1A] to [FIG. 1R] are drawings of various lens support configurations. [FIG. 2A] to [FIG. 2C] are drawings of contact lens cases showing various lens supports and lift members. [FIG. 3A] to [FIG. 3J] are drawings of covers showing examples of air flow management features within the present invention. [FIG. 4A] and [FIG. 4C] are diagrams showing the contact lens case in the present invention. [Fig. 5A] is an exploded side view of the lens case of the present invention. [Fig. 5B] is a side view of the lens case shown in Fig. 5A. [FIG. 5C] to [FIG. 5F] are drawings of the lens case of the present invention.

215: Extended discharge channel

228: Tabs

235: Cover

236: Lens Support

240: Pedestal

245: Flexible Attachments/Hinges

Claims (83)

A contact lens case comprising: a. a support for maintaining a contact lens in a convex position on the support during storage and when opening the case; wherein b. the lens has a peripheral edge and a lens profile; c. the support has a profile that does not substantially match the lens profile; and the wetted contact between the support and the lens is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² . A contact lens case comprising: a. a case base; b. a case lid; and c. a support for holding a contact lens having a peripheral edge and a lens profile relative to the case in a convex position of the base; d. wherein the base and the cover are sealed to form a cavity containing the support, the contact lens, and a packaging solution; e. wherein the lens support comprises a plurality of Peripheral supports having a distal end extending at least 1 mm beyond the peripheral edge of the contact lens and providing at least 3, 3 to 14, 4 to 14 along the peripheral supports , 3 to 8, or 4 to 8, 4 to 6, or 6 points of contact with the edge of the contact lens, and after the case has been opened and the packaging solution has been directed away from the lens and the support, Wetting contact between the support and the lens is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² . The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein the support allows for the discharge of lens solution from the lens and the support upon removal from the lens solution without trapping packaging between the lens and the lens support solution. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein the lens further comprises an optic zone, and the lens support further comprises a substantially flat top section below at least a portion of the contact lens optic zone, the top The segment has an open structure. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein the support further comprises a void below at least a portion of the contact lens optic zone. The contact lens case of claim 1 or 2, wherein when the case is sealed, the contact lens is maintained in an uncompressed state. The contact lens case of claim 1, wherein the support includes at least two peripheral supports. The contact lens case of claim 2 or 7, wherein the peripheral supports are distributed around the periphery of the lens. The contact lens case of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lens includes an apex at the center of the optic zone, and the support further includes a central support having a distance from the periphery of the lens A height measured not more than 0.5 mm below the apex of the contact lens. The contact lens case of claim 9, wherein the central lens support further comprises about 1 to about 10 mm, about 3 mm to about 9 mm, about 5 mm to about 9 mm, or about 6 mm to about 9 mm one diameter. The contact lens case of claim 9 or 10, wherein the central lens support has an open structure. The contact lens case of claim 11, wherein the central lens support comprises a central post below the lens apex. The contact lens case of claim 11, wherein the central lens support comprises a plurality of arms, each arm comprising: a flat top section, an optional side section and an optional perimeter support, a shoulder transition connecting the top section and the optional side section, and connecting the optional side and Optional elbow transition for one of the optional perimeter supports. The contact lens case of claim 13, wherein the arms in the flat top section are connected to each other at a center point below the lens apex, or to an open full ring centered below the lens apex or partial ring. The contact lens case of claim 13, wherein the plurality of arms are in the form of fins attached to the case base. The contact lens case of claim 13, wherein one end of at least some of the plurality of arms is attached to the peripheral lens supports and protrudes upward, and the distal ends of the arms form the flat top section. The contact lens case of any preceding claim, wherein at least some of the distal ends of the peripheral supports are connected to vertical supports, the vertical supports the peripheral supports The support is lifted from the lens base. The case of claims 2-17, further comprising at least a portion of the ring surrounding the distal ends of the peripheral supports and extending at least 2 mm beyond the peripheral edge of the contact lens. The cassette of claims 13 to 18, further comprising three to eight arms. The cassette of claims 13 to 18, further comprising three to six arms. A case as claimed in claims 13 to 20, wherein at least two of the arms have a Y shape. A case as claimed in claims 13 to 20 having 3 Y-shaped arms. The box of claims 13 to 20, comprising 2 straight arms and 2 Y-shaped arms. The box of claims 21-23, wherein the Y-shaped arms comprise a curve across a top portion of the Y. A case as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the arms are straight. The case of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of the ring has a diameter of between about 16 and about 25 mm, between about 18 and about 25 mm, or between about 18 and about 24 mm. The case of claim 4, wherein the substantially flat top portion has a deflection of 0.5 mm, about 0.5 to about 2 mm, 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.8 mm from the apex of the contact lens in an undeformed state to a height of about 1 mm. The box of any one of claims 9 to 27, wherein the support further comprises a fillet centered on the flat top section and having a fillet of about approx. 0.1 to about 3 mm; about 0.1 to about 2 mm, or a width of less than 1.5 mm. The box of claims 13-28, wherein each of the arms and peripheral supports have a width of about 0.5 to about 1.5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 0.7 mm . The box of claims 13 to 29, wherein the arms have a width that provides partial formability and efficient packaging solution discharge when opened. The cassette of claims 13 to 30, wherein each arm has a height in the flat top section of about 0.5 to about 5 mm. The case of any one of claims 9 to 29, wherein the flat top has a center point at the center of the lens support, and the shoulders are radially disposed about the center of the flat top. The case of claim 32, wherein the arms are attached at the center point, and each arm has a length from the shoulder to the center point of about 1.5 to about 4 mm. The box of any one of claims 9 to 33, wherein the flat top section and the side section of the arm are angled from vertical at most about 15°, or between about 1° and about 10° ° between. The box of any preceding claim, wherein the angle between the side section and the peripheral support is between about 60° and about 120°, or between about 80° and about 100° . A case as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the arms are connected at the center of the flat top portion. A cassette as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the arms are distributed radially about the center of the support structure. A case as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the base is substantially flat. A case as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lens does not contact the arm side sections. A cassette as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the arm side sections are straight. A cartridge as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the support is made of a polymer having a contact angle greater than 100°. The case of any preceding claim, wherein the lens support is disposed at an angle of at least about 20° to the case base. The cassette of any one of claims 2 to 42, wherein the peripheral supports are parallel to the cassette base and at least about 4 mm or at least about 5 mm from the cassette base. The case of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a means for lifting the lens support from the lens solution. The cassette of claim 44, wherein the lift member is selected from the group consisting of levers, springs, hinges, pivot arms, folds, mechanical traps, handles, and combinations thereof. The case of claim 54, wherein the lift member is formed by tilting the lens support away from the base to about 15° to about 80°, about 20° to about 70°, about 30° to about 30° to horizontal 60°, or an angle of about 40° to about 60°, lifts the lens from the packaging solution. The case of any preceding claim, further comprising a receptacle for capturing packaging solution when the lens and support are separated from the case base. A contact lens case comprising: a. a support for holding a contact lens having a convex surface in a convex position relative to the support; and b. a lens-facing surface that includes at least one air entry guide configured such that when the case is opened by a user, the at least one air entry guide directs air in the invisible The case is entered over the convex surface of the eyeglass to reduce the incidence of the convex lens surface sticking to the lens facing surface. The contact lens case of claim 48, wherein the interior of the case defines a cavity containing the support, at least one air entry guide, the contact lens, and a packaging solution; and a. When the box is opened and the packaging solution is expelled from the lens, but before contact by a user's finger, the lens maintains a convex shape on the lens support, and the supports are distributed around the lens perimeter at least two points of contact with the lens. The case of claim 48 or 49, wherein the lens has a profile and the support has a profile that does not substantially match the profile of the lens. The case of claims 48 to 50, wherein the area of contact between the support and the lens behind the case is less than about 20 mm ² , less than 18 mm ² , or less than 15 mm ² . The case of claims 48 to 50, wherein the contact area between the at least one air entry guide and the lens is less than about 50 mm ² or less than about 30 mm ² . The box of claims 48 to 52, wherein the air entry guides are integral with the lens facing surface as protrusions from the lens facing surface or as recesses in the lens facing surface. The box of claims 48 to 52, wherein the air entry guides are part of a separate structure disposed between the convex lens surface and the cover lens facing surface. The box of claims 48 to 54, wherein the air entry guides are aligned parallel to a path of air entry when the box is opened. The box of claims 48 to 55, wherein the air entry guides are spaced apart by at least about 2 mm, about 2 to about 5 mm, or 2 to about 4.5 mm. The case of claims 48-56, wherein the contact lens comprises an optic zone, and a curved lens side section between the optic zone and the peripheral edge, and the air entry guides are directed from the A straight line from the front to the back of the box, a curve around the optic zone, or a combination thereof runs. The box of claims 48 to 57, wherein the air entry guides transverse to the optic zone have a shorter profile above the optic zone. The box of claims 48-58, wherein the air entry guides comprise continuous ridges, discontinuous ridges, and combinations thereof. The box of claims 48 to 59, wherein the air entry guides have a maximum height of at least about 2 mm, or about 2 mm to about 4 mm. The box of claim 60, wherein the air entry guide profile above the optical zone has a height of about 0.5 mm or less. The case of claims 1 and 48, further comprising at least one base section and at least one lid-facing surface, the at least one base section and the at least one lid-facing surface together forming a reversibly sealed void A cavity containing the support, the contact lens, and the lens solution in the cavity. The box of claims 2 to 62, wherein the lid-facing surface is an inner surface of a box lid; and the box further comprises at least one base section, the at least one base section and the lid forming the a cavity containing the lens support, lens, and packaging solution; a. The box further includes at least one opening tab for initiating separation of the lid and the base along a sealing line forming a seal of the cavity. The box of any preceding claim, further comprising an opening tab for initiating a relationship between the lid and the base along a sealing line forming a sealed cavity of the cavity Separated with at least about 2 mm spacing between the sealing line and the lens support at the opening tab. The box of claims 48 to 61 and 63 to 64, wherein the air intake tab further comprises at least one air intake guide. The box of claims 48 to 61 and 63 to 65, wherein the lens support, the lens facing surface, and at least one air entry guide cooperate to maintain the lens centered about the support, and in the lens, the There is minimal contact between the support and the at least one air entry guide. The case of claim 66, wherein the contact between the lens, the at least one air entry guide, and the support is temporary. The cassette of claims 48-61 and 63-67, further comprising an air trapping space remote from the lens optic zone for air in the cavity to occupy. The cassette of claim 68, wherein the air remains in the air-trapping space away from the lens regardless of cassette orientation. The box of claims 69 to 69, wherein the air capture space has a volume equal to or slightly greater than the volume of air to be sealed in the box. A case as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the base and the lid are a single integral part. A case as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the base and the lens support are a single integral part. The case of any of the preceding claims, wherein the base, the lens support, and the cover are a single integral part. The box of claims 2 to 47 and 62 to 73, wherein when closed, the lid and the base form a watertight seal. The box of claim 75, wherein the seal is selected from a screw cap seal or a snap seal. The cassette of claims 74-75, further comprising a burp valve. The cassette of claims 74 to 76, wherein the base comprises two sections, a lens support section and a lens solution holding section. The case of claims 2-47 and 74-77, further comprising a spring below the lens support that lifts the lens support from the lens solution when the lens case is opened. The case of claim 77, wherein the lens solution holding section forms a seal around the lens support, and lens solution is introduced into the lens holding section, and the contact lens is placed on the lens support superior. The box of claim 79 comprising two lids, one lid sealed to the solution retaining section and engaging the solution retaining section when opened, exposing the lens support section, and the other lid opened to The solution holding section is exposed. The cassette of any preceding claim, further comprising at least one displacement member. The case of claims 2 to 47 and 62 to 73, wherein the lens is placed in the lid in a concave orientation with a lens solution, the case is secured by placing the lens support under the surface of the lens support facing the concave lens The base is placed on top of the lid and the base and lid are sealed to form a watertight seal to close, and for storage and opening, the lens case is turned over so the lens is in a convex position arranged on the lens support.

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