Systems and methods for insert placement to fabricate hybrid contact lenses

US12358245B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ALCON INC. · CH

Inventors

• Yang Zheng · Beijing, CN
• Cornelius Daniel Niculas · Suwanee, US
• Yuan Chang · Atlanta, US
• Junhao Ge · Johns Creek, US
• Steve Yun Zhang · Sugar Hill, US
• Justin Joel Aguayo · Duluth, US
• David Andrew Icenogle · Atlanta, US
• Muhammad Asif · New Fairfield, US
• Daryl Reece · Atlanta, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 28, 2022
• Grant date: Jul 15, 2025
• Expiry date: May 6, 2043

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B29K2105/0061
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for fabricating a hybrid contact lens product having a lens insert embedded at a precisely controlled location within a lens body. A mold engagement and support base engages and retains a lens forming mold in a substantially fixed position. An insert placement and positioning device includes an insert pickup head with a contact face configured for releasable engagement of the lens insert and at least one suction opening in the contact face for applying suction to engage the insert on the contact face. A positioning housing interacts with the mold and/or the support base to provide precise locational positioning of the lens insert within the mold. A lens body forming material is delivered to the mold to encapsulate the lens insert.