CONTACT LENS FOR INCREASING TEAR PRODUCTION
First Claim
1. A system for increasing tear production in an eye of a subject, the system comprising:
- a device configured for placement in a subconjunctiva of the eye, wherein the device comprises a stimulator chip configured to stimulate a conjunctiva of the eye; and
an external power source for transmitting energy wirelessly to the stimulator chip to activate the stimulator chip.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Described here are devices, systems, and methods for increasing tear production by stimulating the cornea, conjunctiva, and/or subconjunctiva. In some variations, the devices may be in the form of a contact lens. The contact lens may comprise a lens body and a stimulator chip, where the stimulator chip is embedded in the lens body. An external power source wirelessly transmits energy to the stimulator chip, where the stimulator chip may convert the energy to an electric waveform to stimulate the cornea, conjunctiva, and/or subconjunctiva. Stimulation may activate the lacrimal reflex to increase tear production. The devices and systems for increasing tear production may be used in methods of treating dry eye, reducing the symptoms of tired eye, increasing comfort for contact lens wearers, and extending the number of years a contact lens user can wear contacts. Also described are methods of manufacturing a contact lens.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A system for increasing tear production in an eye of a subject, the system comprising:
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a device configured for placement in a subconjunctiva of the eye, wherein the device comprises a stimulator chip configured to stimulate a conjunctiva of the eye; and an external power source for transmitting energy wirelessly to the stimulator chip to activate the stimulator chip. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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7-12. -12. (canceled)
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13. A method of increasing tear production in a subject, comprising:
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transmitting energy wirelessly from an external power source to a stimulator chip, wherein the stimulator chip is located in a subconjunctival space of an eye of the subject; and delivering a stimulus from the stimulator chip to a conjunctiva of the eye to produce tears. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification