Patent Description:
The present technology generally relates to implantable medical devices and, in various aspects, to systems and associated methods for delivering an accommodating intraocular lens (hereinafter "AIOL") or intraocular lens (hereinafter "IOL").

Cataracts affect a large percentage of the worldwide adult population and can cause clouding of the native crystalline lens and, in some cases, vision loss. Patients with cataracts can be treated by native lens removal and surgical implantation of a synthetic IOL. In the United States, <NUM> million IOL implantation procedures are performed annually, while worldwide over <NUM> million IOL implantation procedures are performed annually.

Although IOL implantation procedures can be effective at restoring vision, conventional IOLs have several drawbacks. For example, many conventional IOLs are not able to change focus as a natural lens would (known as accommodation). Conventional IOLs may be subject to refractive errors that occur after implantation and may require glasses for correcting distance vision. Additionally, in other cases conventional IOLs can be effective in providing far vision but patients may still need glasses for intermediate and near vision.

AIOLs have been proposed to provide accommodative optical power in response to the distance at which a patient views an object. However, devices and systems for delivering such AIOLs are generally still in development and have different drawbacks. For example, conventional delivery systems may require the incision in the eye to be larger than desired for patient recovery. Additionally, conventional delivery systems may not be capable of reliably delivering the AIOL into the eye in the intended configuration.

<CIT> describes an intraocular lens (IOL) insertion apparatus that may include a hand piece body having a distal tip, an IOL folding chamber, and IOL a dwell position, and a telescoping plunger having a first plunger portion and a second plunger portion. The first plunger portion and second plunger portion may be arranged to simultaneously advance through a first portion of a displacement of the telescoping plunger, and one of the first and second plunger portions may be arranged to advance through a second portion of the displacement of the telescoping plunger.

Many aspects of the present technology can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed on illustrating clearly the principles of the present technology. Furthermore, components can be shown as transparent in certain views for clarity of illustration only and not to indicate that the component is necessarily transparent. Components may also be shown schematically.

The present technology is generally directed to systems and associated devices and methods for delivering an AIOL. An AIOL delivery system configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology can include, for example, a tip assembly configured to couple to an injector. The tip assembly can include an injector tip configured to receive an AIOL. The injector tip can include a distal portion configured to be inserted at least partially into the patient's eye. The tip assembly can also include a plunger assembly positionable at least partially within the injector tip. The plunger assembly can include an inner member configured to engage the AIOL and an outer member positioned at least partially around the outer member. When the plunger assembly is actuated, the inner member can be configured to move distally relative to the outer member to displace the AIOL out of the injector tip and into the patient's eye.

Specific details of various embodiments of the present technology are described below with reference to <FIG>. Although certain embodiments are described below with respect to AIOLs and associated methods, other embodiments are within the scope of the present technology. For example, although certain embodiments of delivery systems and devices (e.g., an injector) are described herein in connection with an AIOL, one will appreciate from the description herein that these delivery systems and devices, and various related features and methods, can be used equally with IOLs and other lenses. Additionally, other embodiments of the present technology can have different configurations, components, and/or procedures than those described herein. For instance, AIOL delivery systems configured in accordance with the present technology may include additional elements and features beyond those described herein, or other embodiments may not include several of the elements and features shown and described herein.

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present technology. Furthermore, the particular features or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

Reference throughout this specification to relative terms such as, for example, "generally," "approximately," and "about" are used herein to mean the stated value plus or minus <NUM>%.

Reference throughout this specification to terms such as "top," "bottom," "lateral," "height," and "width" can refer to relative directions, positions, or dimensions of features in the embodiments herein in view of the orientation shown in the drawings. However, it will be appreciated that the present technology encompasses embodiments having orientations different than the orientation shown in the drawings. For example, in other embodiments a component may be rotated by <NUM> degrees such that the "height" of the original embodiment corresponds to the "width" in the rotated embodiment, and the "width" of the original embodiment corresponds to the "height" in the rotated embodiment.

The present technology is generally directed to systems and devices for delivering an AIOL into a patient's eye. In some embodiments, for example, an AIOL delivery system includes an injector tip (which may be interchangeably referred to herein as an "injector body," "funnel," or "funneling insert") configured to receive an AIOL therein. The system can further include a plunger (which may be interchangeably referred to herein as a "piston") configured to engage the AIOL to displace the AIOL distally out of the injector tip and into the patient's eye. The components of the system (e.g., the injector tip, plunger, etc.) can be configured to accommodate a relatively small incision in the eye (e.g., an incision less than or equal to <NUM> in length) while avoiding or reducing stresses on the AIOL that could rupture or otherwise damage the AIOL. Additionally, the embodiments herein can provide AIOL delivery in a controllable and reliable manner (e.g., without flipping, inverting, or other unwanted movements of the AIOL). Accordingly, the present technology is expected to improve the safety, efficiency, and consistency of AIOL implantation procedure.

In some embodiments, for example, the AIOL delivery systems described herein include a tip assembly configured to deliver an AIOL into a patient's eye. The tip assembly can include an injector tip configured to receive the AIOL. The injector tip can have a tapered shape with a narrower distal portion (e.g., for insertion into the eye) and a wider proximal portion. In some embodiments, for example, the distal portion has a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter, width, height) less than or equal to <NUM>, and the proximal portion has a cross-sectional dimension greater than the cross-sectional dimension of the distal portion. The tapered shape of the injector tip can be configured to controllably and consistently deform the AIOL from a resting configuration into a low-profile delivery configuration suitable for introduction into the eye via a relatively small incision. The tip assembly can also include a plunger assembly configured to push the AIOL distally through the injector tip and into the eye. To accommodate the tapered shape of the injector tip, the plunger assembly can have an inner member configured to move telescopically relative to the outer member. As the plunger assembly moves distally through the injector tip, the plunger assembly can transition from a first configuration, in which the inner and outer members push on the AIOL together, to a second configuration, in which only the inner member pushes on the AIOL.

As another example, the AIOL delivery systems described herein can include an injector body configured to receive a piston via an inlet at a proximal portion of the injector body. The inlet can be tapered, flared, and/or otherwise shaped to facilitate direction of the piston into the injector body. The distal portion of the injector body can include an outlet sized and shaped to pass through an incision (e.g., a corneal incision) into the eye. The injector body can include an internal channel that tapers from the inlet to the outlet. The internal channel can be configured to receive an AIOL or other optical device and compress the device between the inlet and the outlet. Optionally, the injector body can include a necked, narrowed, or otherwise constricted portion at or near the distal end of the injector body. Positioning the constricted portion of the injector body proximal to the distal end of the injector body can allow for pre-expansion of the optical device before the optical device exits the outlet of the injector body. In some embodiments, such pre-expansion of the optical device can reduce the risk of injury to the eye during implantation of the optical device.

<FIG> illustrate an AIOL delivery system <NUM> configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. More specifically, <FIG> are exploded views of the delivery system <NUM>, and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of an injector body <NUM> of the delivery system <NUM>. Referring first to <FIG>, the delivery system <NUM> includes an injector body <NUM> and a piston <NUM>. The injector body <NUM> can be configured to receive a lens system or AIOL <NUM> therein. The AIOL <NUM> is shown in <FIG> positioned proximal of the injector body <NUM> and distal to the piston <NUM>. The piston <NUM> can be actuated to push the AIOL <NUM> out of the outflow portion 108b of the injector body <NUM> and into a patient's eye.

The injector body <NUM> can include an inflow (e.g., proximal) portion 108a and an outflow (e.g., distal) portion 108b. The AIOL <NUM> can be initially placed on, at, or within the inflow portion 108a. When in the inflow portion 108a, the AIOL <NUM> can be in an undeformed or substantially undeformed configuration. For example, the inflow portion 108a can have a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., area, diameter, width, etc.) configured to accommodate a cross-sectional dimension of the AIOL <NUM> normal to the optical axis of the AIOL <NUM> (referred to herein as the cross-section of the AIOL <NUM>) with little or no deformation of the AIOL <NUM>.

The outflow portion 108b can be configured to be at least partially inserted into a patient's eye to deliver the AIOL <NUM>. The outflow portion 108b can have a reduced cross-sectional dimension (e.g., area, diameter, width) compared to the inflow portion 108a. For example, the inflow portion 108a can have a rectangular cross-sectional shape (e.g., a <NUM> x <NUM> rectangular shape), and the outflow portion 108b can have a circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., a <NUM> diameter circular shape). In some embodiments, the cross-sectional dimension of the outflow portion 108b is configured for AIOL delivery through a relatively small corneal incision. For example, the incision can have a length less than or equal to <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. As a result, the AIOL <NUM> can be delivered from the injector body <NUM> into the eye, or, optionally, into a delivery tool with a cross-sectional dimension which minimizes or otherwise reduces the length of the incision into the eye, and therefore the size of the injury.

In some embodiments, the outflow (e.g., distal) portion 108b of the injector body <NUM> is expandable. Optionally, the outflow portion 108b of the injector body <NUM> is expandable and a portion proximal to the outflow portion 108b is not expandable. The portion proximal the outflow portion 108b (sometimes referred to as an intermediate tip portion) may be more rigid than the outflow portion 108b, for example, to limit pressure on the incision site during delivery. Additional features of the outflow portion 108b are described in greater detail below.

The injector body <NUM> can be shaped such that the cross-sectional geometry (e.g., size and/or shape) of the inflow portion 108a relatively and monotonically transitions into the cross-sectional geometry of the outflow portion 108b. The AIOL <NUM> can be pushed through the injector body <NUM> from the inflow portion 108a to the outflow portion 108b by the piston <NUM>. In some embodiments, the piston <NUM> includes features (not shown) that allow for the end of the piston <NUM> in contact with the AIOL <NUM> to change shape in accordance with the change in shape of the injector body <NUM>. For example, the end of the piston <NUM> can include one or more weakened portions configured to deflect in response to contact with the injector body <NUM>. This approach is expected to improve the ability of the piston <NUM> to push on the AIOL <NUM> from the inflow portion 108a to the outflow portion 108b, as described in greater detail below.

Referring next to <FIG> together, in some embodiments, the injector body <NUM> includes a funneling insert <NUM> that is mounted into a handle or housing <NUM>. The funneling insert <NUM> can be configured to receive the AIOL <NUM> therein, and can include the inflow portion 108a and outflow portion 108b. The handle <NUM> can be used by an operator to hold and grip the delivery system <NUM> during use. The funneling insert <NUM> can be received in and secured to the handle <NUM> by an end cap <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the funneling insert <NUM> is held in the handle <NUM> by capturing a flange portion <NUM> of the funneling insert <NUM> in an interference fit between the end cap <NUM> and the handle <NUM>. In other embodiments, however, the injector body <NUM> can be manufactured as a single unitary component in which the funneling insert <NUM> and handle <NUM> are integrally formed with each other.

In some embodiments, at least the surface(s) (e.g., inner surfaces) of the funneling insert <NUM> are made of, coated with, or otherwise include materials suitable for reducing or minimizing the interfacial friction between the AIOL <NUM> and the funneling insert <NUM>. In other embodiments the entirety of the funneling insert <NUM> is made of materials suitable for reducing or minimizing the interfacial friction between the AIOL <NUM> and the funneling insert <NUM>. In some embodiments, for example, the funneling insert <NUM> is made of a heat shrink material.

In some embodiments, the funneling insert <NUM> is manufactured as a single unitary component. In other embodiments, however, the funneling insert <NUM> can be manufactured as two discrete components, e.g., split along a plane equivalent or parallel to the plane defining the cross-section shown in in <FIG>. In such embodiments the AIOL <NUM> can be placed in one half of the funneling insert <NUM>, and then the other half of the funneling insert <NUM> can be placed and affixed after loading the AIOL <NUM>.

The piston <NUM> can be configured to push the AIOL <NUM> through the funneling insert <NUM>. As the piston <NUM> advances through the funneling insert <NUM>, the leading (e.g., distal) section of the piston <NUM> can change shape and adapt to the changing cross-section of the funneling insert <NUM> and proximal surface of the deforming AIOL <NUM>. The proximal end portion of the piston <NUM> may be sufficiently stiff relative to the AIOL components to deform the AIOL <NUM> and move it through the funneling insert <NUM> while the piston sustains reduced or minimal deformation under the applied loads. The proximal end portion of the piston <NUM> may be imparted with such stiffness by including a stiff material, a rigid insert or support, and/or other mechanisms as would be understood from the description herein. The distal end portion of the piston <NUM> can include materials and/or features which allow the distal end portion to conform to the cross section of the funneling insert <NUM>. For example, the piston <NUM> may be made of two or more pieces which are more compliant and/or deformable at regions near the AIOL <NUM> (e.g., at distal regions of the piston <NUM>). Alternatively, the piston <NUM> may be made of a single piece having a compliance (material and/or structural) that increases at regions closer to the AIOL <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate various embodiments of pistons capable of use in the AIOL delivery systems described herein. The features of the pistons described with respect to <FIG> can combined with each other or with any other embodiment described herein (e.g., piston <NUM> of <FIG>).

Referring first to <FIG>, the piston <NUM> includes a distal end portion <NUM> and a proximal end portion <NUM>. The distal end portion <NUM> can be configured to engage an AIOL (not shown) and the proximal end portion <NUM> can be configured to be actuated by a user. The piston <NUM> can be structurally compliant at the distal end portion <NUM> and stiff on the proximal end portion <NUM>. For example, the distal end portion <NUM> can include a flexible distal face <NUM> positioned between two longitudinally-extending arms <NUM>. The arms <NUM> can be flexible structures that are configured to move towards each other as the piston <NUM> is advanced through a tapered portion of a funneling insert (e.g., funneling insert <NUM> of <FIG>). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal face <NUM> of the piston <NUM> has a concave shape that is hinged or otherwise configured to bend and/or deflect in a proximal direction (e.g., toward the proximal end <NUM>) as the arms <NUM> are pushed together. The proximal end portion <NUM> can have a curved shape configured to accommodate the user's thumb or other digit during operation of the piston <NUM>.

Referring next to <FIG>, the piston <NUM> includes a distal end portion <NUM> and a proximal end portion <NUM>. The piston <NUM> can be identical or generally similar to the piston <NUM> of <FIG>, except that the distal end portion <NUM> of the piston <NUM> has a distal surface <NUM> with a convex shape that is hinged or otherwise configured to bend and/or deflect in a distal direction as arms <NUM> are pushed together. In some embodiments, the distal surface <NUM> has a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., thickness) that decreases monotonically towards the midline of the piston <NUM>.

Referring next to <FIG>, the piston <NUM> includes a proximal rigid piston body <NUM> and a distal deformable piston tip <NUM>. The deformable piston tip <NUM> can be configured to engage an AIOL (not shown). The deformable piston tip <NUM> can be any structure having sufficient flexibility and/or elasticity to deform as the piston <NUM> is advanced through a tapered portion of a funneling insert (e.g., funneling insert <NUM> of <FIG>). The deformable piston tip <NUM> may comprise a foam, a fluid filled bag, a low durometer fluid such as a silicone or polyurethane, or other cohesive viscoelastic material. The piston <NUM> can include a proximal end portion <NUM> with an enhanced platform or similar structure that is curved to accommodate a user's thumb or other digit during operation of the piston <NUM> to implant the AIOL.

<FIG> illustrate various embodiments of funneling inserts capable of use in the AIOL delivery systems described herein. The features of the funneling inserts described with respect to <FIG> can be combined with each other or with any other embodiment described herein (e.g., the funneling insert <NUM> of <FIG>).

Referring first to <FIG>, the funneling insert <NUM> includes a distal tip portion <NUM> configured to be at least partially inserted into a patient's eye. The distal tip portion <NUM> can be generally cylindrical with a circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the distal tip portion <NUM> can have a different cross-sectional shape (e.g., an oval, square, rectangular, or other cross-sectional shape). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal tip portion <NUM> includes an angled or beveled cut at its distalmost end. Optionally, the funneling insert <NUM> can include a proximal flange feature <NUM>. The flange feature <NUM> can be used to secure the funneling insert <NUM> to another component (e.g., handle <NUM> of <FIG>).

Referring next to <FIG>, the funneling insert <NUM> is identical or generally similar to funneling insert <NUM> of <FIG>, except that the proximal portion of the distal tip portion <NUM> comprises a constriction or narrowed portion <NUM>. The constriction <NUM> can have a reduced cross-section dimension (e.g., area, diameter, width) compared to the rest of the distal tip portion <NUM>. As a result, the constriction <NUM> can reduce the size of the funneling insert <NUM> in the region where the funneling insert <NUM> interfaces with the eye during AIOL injection, which is expected to minimize or reduce injury to the eye while the AIOL is delivered. In some embodiments, as discussed in further detail below, the constriction <NUM> can allow the AIOL to begin expanding before exiting from the distal tip portion <NUM>. The remaining portions of the distal tip portion <NUM> (e.g., the portion proximal to the constriction <NUM>) can be expandable or non-expandable.

Referring next to <FIG>, the funneling insert <NUM> is identical or generally similar to funneling insert <NUM> of <FIG>, except that funneling insert <NUM> includes a tapered distal tip portion <NUM>. The funneling insert <NUM> can also include a constriction <NUM> proximal to the tapered distal tip portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the tapered distal tip portion <NUM> comprises one or more slits <NUM>. The slits <NUM> can be configured such that once the tapered distal tip portion <NUM> of the funneling insert <NUM> has been inserted at least partially into the eye via an incision site, the tapered distal tip portion <NUM> can open up and/or expand while avoiding or reducing the risk of additional injury to the incision site. In this manner, a relatively larger AIOL may be delivered with limited or no enlargement of the incision site. In the illustrated embodiment, the slits <NUM> are distributed only over the upper portion (e.g., upper half) of the distal tip portion <NUM>. In such embodiments, during use, the slits <NUM> can be oriented posteriorly in the eye, while the portions of the distal tip portion <NUM> without slits can be oriented anteriorly in the eye and can be used to direct the AIOL into the eye capsule. In other embodiments, however, the slits <NUM> can be distributed around the entire circumference of the distal tip portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a distal tip portion <NUM> of a funneling insert (not shown) configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. As can be seen in <FIG>, the eye includes various structures such as an anterior chamber, an iris, a ciliary body, a zonnule of zinn, a capsule, and a cornea. The incision can be made in the cornea in accordance with techniques known to those of skill in the art. The distal tip portion <NUM> can be inserted through the incision to a location adjacent or near the capsule to deliver an AIOL (not shown) into the capsule. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal tip portion <NUM> has a cylindrical shape, e.g., similar to the distal tip portion <NUM> of <FIG>. In other embodiments, however, the distal tip portion <NUM> can have a different shape.

<FIG> illustrates a distal tip portion <NUM> of a funneling insert (not shown) configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology. Similar to the distal tip portion <NUM> of <FIG>, a constriction <NUM> can be formed in the proximal portion of the distal tip portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when the distal tip portion <NUM> is inserted into the eye, the constriction <NUM> can be positioned adjacent to and/or interface with the incision. The narrowed geometry of the constriction <NUM> can reduce the amount of force applied by the distal tip portion <NUM> to the incision site to reduce inadvertent tissue damage during AIOL delivery.

<FIG> illustrate a distal tip portion <NUM> of a funneling insert (not shown) configured in accordance with a further embodiment of the present technology. The distal tip portion <NUM> includes a portion having a uniform reduced cross-sectional dimension that is configured for insertion through an incision in the eye. The distal tip portion <NUM> also includes one or more slits <NUM> formed made in the distalmost section. The slits <NUM> can allow the portion of the distal tip portion <NUM> distal to the incision to open up and/or expand within the eye during delivery of a lens <NUM> (e.g., an AIOL). This approach can further reduce the incision size and/or injury to the eye during delivery.

<FIG> illustrate a funneling insert <NUM> configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal tip <NUM> of the funneling insert <NUM> comprises a constriction <NUM> (e.g., similar to funneling insert <NUM> of <FIG>). The distal tip portion <NUM> can include a tapered and/or folded portion <NUM> distal to the constriction <NUM>. The folded portion <NUM> can be connected to and/or formed as a unitary part with the constriction <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the folded portion <NUM> can include a plurality of folds 1318a-d and/or crimps. In the illustrated example, the funneling insert <NUM> includes four folds 1318a-d (collectively, <NUM>). In some embodiments, more folds may be used and, in some embodiments, fewer folds may be used. The folds <NUM> can extend parallel to a longitudinal axis of the funneling insert <NUM>. In some embodiments, the folds <NUM> extend in a helical pattern and/or a diagonal pattern with respect to the longitudinal axis of the funneling insert <NUM>. The folds <NUM> can be formed, for example, by creasing, crimping, and/or otherwise deforming a tube of material. The tube may have a cylindrical, oval-shaped, frusto-conical, and/or polygonal cross-section prior to folding. In some embodiments, the folds <NUM> can be configured to unfold to open the distal tip portion <NUM> during AIOL delivery while avoiding or reducing the risk of injury to the entry wound through which the distal end of the funnel passes.

<FIG> illustrate a funneling insert <NUM> configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal tip portion <NUM> of funneling insert <NUM> comprises a constriction <NUM>. The distal tip portion <NUM> can include a tapered and/or rolled portion <NUM> (<FIG>) distal to the constriction <NUM>. The rolled portion <NUM> can be connected to and/or formed as a unitary part with the constriction <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the rolled portion <NUM> can have a tapered and/or beveled shape. The rolled portion <NUM> can be formed, for example, by cutting and overlapping a portion of a tube. The tube may have a cylindrical, oval-shaped, and/or other cross-section prior to cutting and/or overlapping. In some embodiments, the rolled portion <NUM> can be configured to unfurl to open the distal tip portion <NUM> for AIOL delivery while avoiding or reducing the risk of injury to the entry wound through which the distal end of the funnel passes.

<FIG> is a closeup view of a distal tip portion <NUM> of a funneling insert (not shown) configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. The distal tip portion <NUM> comprises a plurality of segments or flaps 1434a-c connected to each other by a plurality of membrane portions 1436a-c. In the illustrated example, the distal tip portion <NUM> includes three flaps 1434a-c (collectively, <NUM>) and three membrane portions 1436a-c (collectively, <NUM>). In some embodiments, more flaps and/or membrane portions may be used, and in some embodiments, fewer flaps and/or membrane portions may be used. Each flap <NUM> can have a tapered or trapezoidal shape, with a distal region <NUM> of the flap <NUM> being narrower than a proximal region <NUM> of the flap <NUM>. Each membrane portion <NUM> can have a triangular shape and can be positioned between a corresponding pair of flaps <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of the membrane portions <NUM> have a trapezoidal shape or other shape. In some embodiments, the flaps <NUM> and membrane portions <NUM> are integrally formed with each other from a single material (e.g., by cutting, engraving, etching, molding, etc.). The membrane portions <NUM> can be thinner and/or more compliant than the flaps <NUM>. The membrane portions <NUM> can stretch and/or deform (e.g., plastically or elastically deform) to allow the flaps <NUM> to move apart from each other and/or move away from the central longitudinal axis of the distal tip <NUM> to open the distal tip portion <NUM>. For example, the membrane portions <NUM> and flaps <NUM> can deform, deflect, stretch, and/or otherwise move in response to passage of an AIOL through the distal tip portion <NUM>.

<FIG> is a closeup view of a distal tip portion <NUM> of a funneling insert (not shown) configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology. The distal tip portion <NUM> comprises a plurality of segments or flaps 1454a-c connected to each other by a membrane <NUM>. The flaps <NUM> can be substantially similar to or the same as the flaps <NUM> described above. In the illustrated example, the distal tip portion <NUM> includes three flaps 1454a-c (collectively, <NUM>). In some embodiments, more flaps may be used, and in some embodiments, fewer flaps may be used. Each flap <NUM> can have a tapered or trapezoidal shape, with the distal region <NUM> of the flap <NUM> being narrower than the proximal region <NUM> of the flap <NUM>. The membrane <NUM> can have a tubular shape and can be coupled to the inner surfaces of the flaps <NUM> (e.g., by adhesives, bonding, fasteners). In some embodiments, the membrane <NUM> has a tapered (e.g., frustoconical) shape wherein a distal end of the membrane <NUM> has a smaller diameter or width than a proximal end of the membrane <NUM>. In some embodiments, the membrane <NUM> is made from a compliant material that can stretch and/or deform (e.g., plastically or elastically deform) to allow the flaps <NUM> to move away from each other and/or away from the central longitudinal axis of the distal tip portion <NUM>, thereby opening the distal tip portion <NUM>. The membrane <NUM> can stretch and/or deform independently of the flaps <NUM>, thus reducing the likelihood of damage during delivery (e.g., from stress concentration).

Optionally, the distal tip portion <NUM> can include a plurality of strain relief cutouts, indentations, or apertures <NUM> (e.g., apertures 1462a-b). The strain relief apertures <NUM> can be located on both sides of the proximal region <NUM> of each flap <NUM>. The strain relief apertures <NUM> can be shaped and/or sized to facilitate movement of the flaps <NUM> apart from each other and/or away from the central longitudinal axis of the distal tip. For example, the strain relief apertures <NUM> can have a circular or elliptical shape. In some embodiments, the strain relief apertures <NUM> can inhibit or prevent cracking, splitting, and/or other damage when the distal tip portion <NUM> is opened (e.g., due to stress concentration).

<FIG> is a closeup view of a distal tip portion <NUM> of a funneling insert (not shown) configured in accordance with a further embodiment of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal tip portion <NUM> comprises a plurality of slits <NUM>. The slit <NUM> can be distributed circumferentially around the distal tip portion <NUM>. The slits <NUM> can extend substantially parallel to each other and along the longitudinal axis of the distal tip portion <NUM> so as to form a plurality of elongate flaps <NUM>. Although the illustrated example includes twelve slits <NUM> and twelve flaps <NUM>, the number of slits <NUM> and flaps <NUM> can be varied as desired (e.g., the distal tip portion <NUM> can include more slits <NUM> and flaps <NUM>, or fewer slits <NUM> and flaps <NUM>). In some embodiments, the distal tip portion <NUM> includes an internal membrane <NUM> having a tubular shape and coupled to the inner surfaces of the flaps <NUM>. In some embodiments, the membrane <NUM> has a tapered and/or frustoconical shape. The membrane <NUM> can be made from a compliant material that stretches and/or deforms (e.g., plastically or elastically deforms) to allow the flaps <NUM> to move away from each other and/or away from the central longitudinal axis of the distal tip portion <NUM> to open the distal tip portion <NUM>. Optionally, the distal tip portion <NUM> can include a plurality of strain relief cutouts, indentations, or apertures <NUM> each located at a proximal end of a corresponding slit <NUM>. The strain relief apertures <NUM> can facilitate movement of the flaps <NUM> (e.g., similar to the strain relief apertures <NUM> of <FIG>).

<FIG> illustrate an AIOL delivery system <NUM> configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. Referring first to <FIG>, the delivery system <NUM> can include an injector body <NUM> and a plunger <NUM> operably connected to the injector body. The injector body <NUM> can include any of the features of any of the injector bodies/funneling inserts described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>). For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the injector body <NUM> can include a proximal end portion <NUM> and a distal end portion <NUM>. The distal end portion <NUM> can include a distal tip portion <NUM>. The distal tip portion <NUM> can be similar to or the same as any of the distal tip portions described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>. In some embodiments, the distal end portion <NUM> of the injector body <NUM> includes a tapered portion <NUM>. The tapered portion <NUM> can have a tapered shape which transitions from a wider proximal end to a narrower distal end. In some embodiments, the distal end of the tapered portion <NUM> has approximately the same cross-section as the distal tip portion <NUM>.

The plunger <NUM> can be sized and shaped to extend through the proximal end portion <NUM> (e.g., through an opening thereof) of the injector body <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> can include a proximal end <NUM> having an engagement feature. The engagement feature can be sized and/or shaped to facilitate user input to the plunger <NUM>. For example, the engagement feature can be an indentation, dimple, saddle, and/or some other feature configured to facilitate engagement between the user (e.g., a user's thumb or finger) and the plunger <NUM>. In some embodiments, the plunger <NUM>, or some portion thereof, can be configured to move in response to mechanical and/or electromechanical input. In some embodiments, the plunger <NUM> is threaded or otherwise configured to engage with the injector body <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> can include any of the features of any of the plungers/pistons described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG>).

As illustrated in <FIG>, the injector body <NUM> or some other portion of the delivery system <NUM> can include one or more ports <NUM>. For example, the injector body <NUM> can include first and second ports <NUM> positioned along the length of the injector body <NUM>. The ports <NUM> can be configured to allow access to an interior of the injector body <NUM> or some other portion of the delivery system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ports <NUM> are positioned in a necked or narrowed portion <NUM> of the injector body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the injector body <NUM> does not include a necked or narrowed portion and the ports <NUM> extend through a portion of the injector body <NUM> between the proximal end portion <NUM> and the distal end portion <NUM>.

The delivery system <NUM> can include one or more seals, valves, and/or some other structure(s) configured to selectively open, close, cover, and/or uncover the one or more ports <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, for example as shown in <FIG>, a seal <NUM> can be movably connected to the injector body <NUM>. In a first position, as illustrated in <FIG>, the seal <NUM> can be positioned away from the ports <NUM>. In a second position, as illustrated in <FIG>, the seal <NUM> can be positioned covering the one or more ports <NUM>. The seal <NUM> can include one or more detent structures or other features configured to engage with the ports <NUM> to reduce the risk of accidental unsealing (e.g., uncovering) of the ports <NUM> while allowing for intentional movement of the seal <NUM> away from the ports <NUM>.

The one or more ports <NUM> can be configured, when opened, to allow for injection and/or insertion of material into the interior of the injector body <NUM>. Such material can include, for example, ophthalmic viscoelastic device (OVD) material or other appropriate materials. Such material can be introduced, for example, via a syringe or other fluid injection device. In some embodiments, the ports <NUM> are positioned along the length of the injector body <NUM> distal to a storage position of the AIOL <NUM>. Positioning the ports <NUM> distal to the AIOL <NUM> can allow for injection of material between the AIOL <NUM> in the distal tip portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner channel <NUM> of the injector body <NUM> is sized and shaped such that the AIOL <NUM> inhibits or prevents passage of OVD material from a distal side of the AIOL <NUM> to a proximal side of the AIOL <NUM> within the injector body <NUM>. Introducing OVD material or other similar material to distal portion of the injector body <NUM> before implantation of the AIOL <NUM> can reduce the risk of damage to the eye as the AIOL <NUM> is passed through the distal tip portion <NUM> of the injector body <NUM>. Use of OVD material or other similar materials can help to maintain the anterior chamber of the eye, as well as protect the corneal endothelium during implantation of the AIOL.

Referring again to <FIG>, the delivery system <NUM> can include a flexible member <NUM> (e.g., a cushion, pillow, and/or some other structure configured to at least partially deform in response to an exterior force). The flexible member <NUM> can be positioned within the injector body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the flexible member <NUM> is resilient. The flexible member <NUM> can constructed as a solid and/or uniform structure. For example, the flexible member <NUM> can be constructed from a hydrogel material. In some embodiments, the flexible member <NUM> is hollow and/or filled with the material different from the material forming the outer wall the flexible member <NUM>. For example, the flexible member <NUM> can be formed from a flexible outer shell filled with a filler material, such as a liquid, gel (e.g., a hydrogel), gas, and/or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the filler material used to fill the flexible member <NUM> is more compliant (e.g., more flexible/less viscous) than the material used to form the outer shell.

The flexible member <NUM> can be configured to reduce the likelihood of damage to the AIOL <NUM> before or during implantation. For example, the flexible member <NUM> can reduce the likelihood of damage imparted on the AIOL <NUM> from the plunger <NUM>. In some embodiments, use of the flexible member <NUM> allows for improved surface area contact between structure pushing the AIOL <NUM> and AIOL <NUM>. In other words, the flexible member <NUM> can be configured to contact the AIOL <NUM> over a large portion of the AIOL <NUM> surface area as observed in the distal direction from the proximal opening of the injector body <NUM>. As the inner channel <NUM> of the injector body <NUM> narrows toward the distal tip portion <NUM>, the flexible member <NUM> can also narrow. The flexibility and/or compressibility of the flexible member <NUM> can therefore allow for contact between the flexible member <NUM> in the AIOL <NUM> that is substantially equal to the cross-sectional area of the inner channel <NUM> as the AIOL <NUM> passes through the inner channel <NUM> to the distal tip portion <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the AIOL <NUM> can include one or more circumferential portions <NUM> (e.g., flexible portions) defined by indentations <NUM> along the perimeter of the AIOL <NUM>. In some embodiments, the indentations <NUM> correspond to relatively stiff portions of the AIOL <NUM>. The flexible member <NUM> can include a protrusion or other engagement feature <NUM> configured to engage with one of the indentations <NUM> of the AIOL <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, wherein the AIOL <NUM> has an odd number (e.g., three, five, or some other number) of indentations <NUM>, aligning an indentation <NUM> of the AIOL <NUM> with engagement features <NUM> of the flexible member <NUM> can increase the likelihood that a flexible portion <NUM> of the AIOL <NUM> is positioned in the distal direction. Positioning a flexible portion <NUM> of the AIOL <NUM> on a distal side of the AIOL <NUM> can improve compression of the AIOL <NUM> and reduce stress on the AIOL <NUM> as the AIOL <NUM> passes through the inner channel <NUM> the injector body <NUM>, and through an opening of the distal tip portion <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, the delivery system <NUM> is illustrated in a storage or shipping configuration. In the storage configuration, the seal <NUM> can be positioned in the second position sealing the ports <NUM>. In some embodiments, the plunger <NUM> is removed. For example, a plug <NUM> or other ceiling structure positioned within the opening in the proximal end portion <NUM> of the injector body <NUM>. In some embodiments, a distal plug <NUM> is positioned to seal the distal tip portion <NUM>. Instead of or in addition to the plugs <NUM>, <NUM>, in some embodiments foil, polymeric, and/or other thin/removable material may be placed over the opening of the distal tip portion <NUM> and/or over the opening in the proximal end portion <NUM> of the injector body <NUM>. Preferably, the inner channel <NUM> of the injector body <NUM> is at least partially filled with a buffer material. The buffer material can be, for example, saline solution or other material configured to maintain the AIOL <NUM> and other portions (e.g., the flexible member <NUM>) of the delivery system <NUM> in a desired condition (e.g., hydrated).

<FIG> illustrate an AIOL delivery system <NUM> configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology. The delivery system <NUM> can be generally similar to the delivery system <NUM> described above with respect to <FIG>. Accordingly, like numbers (e.g., injector body <NUM> versus injector body <NUM>) are used to identify similar or identical structures and discussion of the delivery system <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> will be limited to those features that differ from the embodiment discussed with respect to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the injector body <NUM> may lack ports. In some embodiments, the injector body <NUM> of the delivery system <NUM> does not include any necked or narrowed portions. As illustrated in <FIG>, the delivery system <NUM> can include a cartridge <NUM> positioned within the injector body <NUM>. The cartridge <NUM> may be removed from the injector body <NUM> after use. In some embodiments, the cartridge <NUM> can be shipped and stored separately from the injector body <NUM> and/or the plunger <NUM> and inserted into the injector body <NUM> prior to use. One or both of the AIOL <NUM> and the flexible member <NUM> may be positioned within the cartridge <NUM>. In some embodiments, the AIOL <NUM> and/or the flexible member <NUM> are the same as or similar to the AIOL <NUM> and flexible member <NUM>, respectively, described above.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the cartridge <NUM> can include one or more ports <NUM>. The one or more ports <NUM> can operate in a manner similar to or the same as the ports <NUM> described above. In some embodiments, delivery system <NUM> can include one or more plugs configured to engage with the cartridge when the cartridges in a storage and/or shipping configuration. For example, the delivery system <NUM> can include a first plug <NUM> configured to seal the distal end <NUM> of the cartridge <NUM> and to seal the one or more ports <NUM>. A second plug <NUM> can be positioned in or on the proximal end <NUM> of the cartridge <NUM>. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of the plugs, caps, seals (e.g., foil, polymer, and/or other seals), and/or other structures may be used to seal an interior of the cartridge <NUM>. Preferably, a buffering solution of (e.g. saline solution or other material) at least partially fills an interior of the cartridge <NUM> when the cartridge <NUM> is stored and/or shipped.

During use, the cartridge <NUM> may be inserted into the injector body <NUM>. Preferably, the plugs, caps, seals, and other ceiling structures are removed prior to insertion of the cartridge <NUM> into the injector body <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> may then be introduced into the proximal end of the injector body <NUM> and used in a manner similar to the same as the plunger <NUM> described above with respect to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrate an embodiment of an AIOL delivery system <NUM> configured in accordance with a further embodiment of the present technology. The delivery system <NUM> includes an injector <NUM> (<FIG>) and a tip assembly <NUM> (<FIG>), as described in further detail below. The delivery system <NUM> can be used to deliver an AIOL into a patient's eye as described in further detail below (<FIG>). In some embodiments, the injector <NUM> may include one or more features similar to an IOL injector. In other embodiments the injector <NUM> can be any device suitable for delivering a lens or other implantable optical component into the eye. The tip assembly <NUM> can be operably coupled to the injector <NUM> to adapt the injector <NUM> for AIOL delivery in accordance with the embodiments described herein. As described in detail below, the various components of the tip assembly <NUM> can be configured to controllably and reliably deliver an AIOL into the eye via a relatively small incision, while reducing or avoiding stresses on the AIOL likely to lead to rupture or other damage.

<FIG> illustrate the injector <NUM> of the delivery system <NUM> when assembled (<FIG>) and when disassembled (<FIG>). The injector <NUM> can be operated by a user to actuate delivery of an AIOL into a patient's eye. In the illustrated embodiment, the injector <NUM> includes a body portion <NUM> and a plunger <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> can be configured to move distally relative to the body portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, for example, the body portion <NUM> includes an elongate tube <NUM> sized and/or shaped to receive the plunger <NUM> therein. The plunger <NUM> can include an elongate shaft <NUM> slidably positioned within a barrel <NUM>. When the injector <NUM> is assembled (<FIG>), the barrel <NUM> can be positioned within the tube <NUM>, with a portion of the shaft <NUM> extending proximally outwards from the body portion <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> can be actuated by a user to move the shaft <NUM> distally relative to the barrel <NUM> and body portion <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> can further include a distal extension <NUM> configured to engage and transmit the actuation force to another component of the delivery system <NUM>, as described in greater detail below.

Optionally, the injector <NUM> can include features that allow the injector <NUM> to be held and/or operated with one hand. In some embodiments, for example, the plunger <NUM> includes a first engagement feature <NUM> and a second engagement feature <NUM> sized and/or shaped to facilitate actuation of the plunger <NUM>. For example, the first engagement feature <NUM> (e.g., a flange, thumb rest, or other structure) can be located on the shaft <NUM> for engagement with a user's thumb and the second engagement feature <NUM> (e.g., a flange, loop, or other structure) can be located on the barrel <NUM> for engagement with the user's fingers. In other embodiments, however, the first and second engagement features <NUM> and <NUM> may have different configurations, and/or may not include one or both of these engagement features.

<FIG> illustrate various components of the tip assembly <NUM> of the delivery system <NUM>. For example, the tip assembly <NUM> can be coupled to the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM> (<FIG>). The tip assembly <NUM> can include an adapter <NUM> (<FIG>), an injector tip <NUM> (<FIG>, and <FIG>), and a plunger assembly <NUM> (<FIG>, and <FIG>). In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter <NUM>, injector tip <NUM>, and plunger assembly <NUM> are discrete components that are attached to each other (e.g., via interference fit, mating features, adhesives, bonding, etc.) to assemble the tip assembly <NUM>. In other embodiments, however, some of these components can be integrally formed with each other as a single unitary structure (e.g., the adapter <NUM> and injector tip <NUM>).

<FIG> illustrate the tip assembly <NUM> and the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM> in both an exploded view (<FIG>) and when assembled (<FIG>). Referring to <FIG> together, the tip assembly <NUM> includes an adapter <NUM> configured to couple to the injector <NUM>, an injector tip <NUM> configured to receive an AIOL (not shown), and a plunger assembly <NUM> configured to push the AIOL out of the injector tip <NUM> when the injector <NUM> is actuated. The tip assembly <NUM> can be sized and shaped such that it can be coupled to or otherwise engaged with the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrate the tip assembly <NUM> when coupled to the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM> (the adapter <NUM> and injector tip <NUM> are omitted in <FIG> for clarity).

Referring to <FIG> together, the adapter <NUM> can be sized and/or shaped to couple the injector tip <NUM> and/or plunger assembly <NUM> to the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM>. For example, the adapter <NUM> can include a distal aperture <NUM> configured to receive and/or mate with a corresponding portion the injector tip <NUM> (e.g., a proximal portion <NUM>). The adapter <NUM> can further include an engagement portion <NUM> that couples to the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM> to secure the injector tip <NUM> to the injector <NUM>. For example, the engagement portion <NUM> can include a pair of proximally-extending side walls <NUM> shaped to engage the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM>. The side walls <NUM> can optionally include features configured to couple to mating features on the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM>. For example, the side walls <NUM> can include one or more tabs <NUM> (<FIG>) shaped to be received within one or more slots <NUM> in the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM> (<FIG>). During assembly, the adapter <NUM> can be slid over the injector <NUM> so that the tabs <NUM> are positioned within the slots <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> can then be rotated relative to the injector <NUM> (or vice-versa) to lock the tabs <NUM> within the slots <NUM>. In other embodiments the adapter <NUM> and injector <NUM> can include different types of mating features, such as protrusions, pins, groove, holes, threading, etc..

Referring to <FIG>, and <FIG> together, the injector tip <NUM> can be a hollow structure configured to receive an AIOL (e.g., AIOL <NUM> shown in <FIG>) and/or any other components useful for AIOL delivery (e.g., OVD material). As shown in <FIG>, the injector tip <NUM> includes a proximal portion <NUM> and a distal portion <NUM>. The proximal portion <NUM> can be configured to couple to an injector <NUM> (e.g., directly or indirectly via adapter <NUM>) and the distal portion <NUM> can be configured to be inserted at least partially into an incision in the eye. The injector tip <NUM> can include any of the features of any of the injector bodies/funneling inserts described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>) and/or the distal portion <NUM> can include any of the features of any of the distal portions or distal tip portions described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>). For example, in some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> has a tapered shape such that the proximal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM> is wider than the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM>. For example, the distal portion <NUM> can have a width less than or equal to about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. The proximal portion <NUM> can have a width greater than or equal to about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

The geometry of the injector tip <NUM> or at least a portion thereof (e.g., distal portion <NUM> (<FIG>)) can be configured to improve delivery of the AIOL into the eye. For example, in some embodiments, the geometry of the distal portion <NUM> is configured to compress an AIOL from an uncompressed resting configuration into a compressed delivery configuration. In the delivery configuration, the AIOL can have a folded and/or furled shape suitable for delivery into the eye via a small incision. For example, the compressed configuration can be suitable for delivery via an incision having a length of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. The geometry of the distal portion <NUM> can be configured to controllably and consistently compress an AIOL into the delivery configuration without rupturing or otherwise damaging the AIOL.

Referring to <FIG>, for example, the distal portion <NUM> can include a first section 1744a, a second section 1744b distal to the first section 1744a, and a tapered section 1744c connecting the first section 1744a and second section 1744b. The first section 1744a and second section 1744b can each have an elongated shape with a uniform or generally uniform cross-sectional geometry (e.g., with respect to area, diameter, circumference, width, shape, etc.). The first section 1744a can have a first cross-sectional dimension (e.g., area, diameter, circumference, width, height). The first cross-sectional dimension can be greater than or equal to a corresponding cross-sectional dimension of the AIOL <NUM> when in a resting (e.g., uncompressed and/or undeformed) configuration. In some embodiments, the first cross-sectional dimension is less than or equal to a maximum dimension (e.g., a diameter) of the AIOL <NUM>. The second section 1744b can have a second cross-sectional dimension smaller than the first cross-sectional dimension. The second cross-sectional dimension can be less than the corresponding cross-sectional dimension of the AIOL <NUM> in the resting configuration. The tapered section 1744c can have a decreasing cross-sectional dimension that provides a smooth, gradual transition between the first and second sections 1744a-b. Accordingly, as the AIOL moves from the first section 1744a into the second section 1744b via tapered section 1744c, the decreasing cross-sectional dimension can cause the AIOL to be gradually compressed (e.g., folded and/or furled) from the resting configuration into the delivery configuration.

Referring to <FIG> together, the cross-sectional shape of at least a part of the distal portion <NUM> (e.g., the second section 1744b and/or tapered section 1744c) can be configured to facilitate compression of the AIOL into the delivery configuration in a controlled and consistent manner. In some embodiments, for example, the second section 1744b is shaped to interface with the AIOL <NUM> to cause the AIOL <NUM> to fold, furl, or otherwise transition into the delivery configuration. For example, the second section 1744b can have a cross-sectional shape that is an elliptical shape 1745a (<FIG>), a modified elliptical shape 1745b (<FIG>), or a rounded hexagonal shape 1745c (<FIG>). The modified elliptical shape 1745b can be, for example, an ellipse having one or more flattened sides (e.g., flattened top and bottom sides). The rounded hexagonal shape 1745c can be, for example, a six-sided shape having rounded corners and flattened top and bottom sides. In some embodiments, the lateral sides of the elliptical shape 1745a, modified elliptical shape 1745b, and/or rounded hexagonal shape 1745c interface with the corresponding lateral portions of the AIOL <NUM> to encourage them to fold and/or furl upwards or downwards into the delivery configuration.

The cross-sectional dimensions of the second section 1744b (e.g., width, height, diameter) can be configured to compress the AIOL for delivery via a relatively small incision (e.g., an incision less than <NUM> long). In some embodiments, for example, the maximum cross-sectional width of the second section 1744b (e.g., width w<NUM> of <FIG>, width w<NUM> of <FIG>, width w<NUM> of <FIG>) is smaller than the diameter of the AIOL in its resting configuration, such that the AIOL is constrained into the compressed delivery configuration when positioned within the second section 1744b. For example, the maximum cross-sectional width of the second section 1744b can be less than or equal to about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. In some embodiments, the height of the second section 1744b (e.g., height h<NUM> of <FIG>, height h<NUM> of <FIG>, height h<NUM> of <FIG>) is less than or equal to about <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the second section 1744b can terminate in an angled or beveled end portion <NUM>, such that the plane of the end portion <NUM> (represented by line B-B) is at a bevel angle <NUM> relative to the longitudinal axis of the distal portion <NUM> (represented by line C-C). The bevel angle <NUM> can be selected to allow the AIOL to be quickly and controllably delivered into the eye in a desired position and/or orientation, e.g., without flipping or inverting. In some embodiments, the bevel angle <NUM> is about <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, or <NUM> degrees.

The length of the second section 1744b (e.g., as measured from the proximal-most portion of the second section 1744b to the distalmost tip <NUM>) can be selected to facilitate AIOL delivery into the eye. In embodiments where the end portion <NUM> is beveled, the second section 1744b can have a maximum length Li and a minimum length L<NUM>. In some embodiments, the length (e.g., Li and/or L<NUM>) is sufficiently long to allow the second section 1744b to be inserted into the eye, yet sufficiently short to reduce the likelihood of injury to the eye (e.g., due to excessive insertion depth). For example, the length can be about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. In some embodiments, the minimum length L<NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM>, and the maximum length Li is greater than <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the length of the second section 1744b (e.g., Li and/or L<NUM>) is configured to reduce compressive stresses on the AIOL while also allowing for sufficient insertion depth of the distal portion <NUM> into the eye. For example, the length can be configured to reduce the portion of the AIOL that is compressed within the second section 1744b at any given point in time during delivery into the patient's eye. The geometry of the second section 1744b can be configured based on the size of the AIOL. For example, the length can be shorter than the diameter of the AIOL in order to reduce the portion of the AIOL that is compressed in the second section 1744b during delivery. Reducing the portion of the AIOL within second section 1744b at any given time during implantation can reduce stresses on the bonds of the AIOL exerted by fluid pressure within the AIOL in response to compression of the AIOL. In some embodiments, for example, the ratio of the length of the second section 1744b to the diameter of the AIOL is about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> or a portion thereof (e.g., distal portion <NUM>) is configured to control a rotational angle of the AIOL as it moves distally through the injector tip <NUM> and/or out the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM>. In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> is configured to maintain the rotational angle of the AIOL during delivery such that the AIOL cannot rotate or such that the AIOL exhibits a relatively small amount of rotation (e.g., no more than <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, or <NUM> degrees of rotation). In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> is configured to prevent or reduce AIOL rotation as the AIOL is ejected from the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM>. In other embodiments, however, the injector tip <NUM> can be configured to rotate the AIOL during delivery. For example, the AIOL may be rotated to facilitate pushing through and out the distal portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> is configured to cause the AIOL to rotate (e.g., <NUM> degrees) as it is ejected from the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM>.

The injector tip <NUM> can be made of any suitable material, such as a polymer (e.g., polypropylene). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the injector tip <NUM> includes a low-friction material or material coating (e.g., a hydrophilic material such as a hydrophilic polymer, resin, etc.). For example, the interior surface of the injector tip <NUM> can include a low-friction material. In such embodiments, the low-friction material can reduce friction between the injector tip <NUM> and the AIOL, such that the coefficient of friction is less than or equal to <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> N, <NUM> n or <NUM> N. Alternatively or in combination, the external surface of the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip can include a low-friction material, e.g., to reduce friction between the distal portion <NUM> and the tissues of the eye. The low-friction material can be applied to the injector tip <NUM> using any suitable technique, such as coating, cross-linking, layering, depositing, or a combination thereof. The low-friction material can be, for example, a hydrophilic material (e.g., polyurethane, poly(vinylpyrrolidone), poly(ethylene oxide), poly(propylene oxide), polyacrylamide, methyl cellulose, polyacrylic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl ether, or combinations thereof). In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> is made of a relatively hydrophobic material (e.g., polypropylene), and a hydrophilic low-friction material can be applied to the injector tip <NUM> to increase the hydrophilicity thereof. Optionally, the injector tip <NUM> can be pre-treated (e.g., plasma treated) to improve adhesion of the low-friction material to the injector tip <NUM>. The final thickness of the low-friction material can be varied as desired, e.g., about <NUM> microns to about <NUM> microns thick.

Referring to <FIG>, and <FIG> together, the plunger assembly <NUM> is configured to push the AIOL distally out of the injector tip <NUM> when actuated (e.g., by the injector <NUM> shown in <FIG>). In some embodiments, the plunger assembly <NUM> is configured to maintain sufficient engagement with the AIOL even as the cross-sectional dimension of the injector tip <NUM> decreases. This can be accomplished, for example, by altering the configuration of the plunger assembly <NUM> as it moves distally through the injector tip <NUM> so that at least a portion of the plunger assembly <NUM> remains in contact with the AIOL. To accommodate the tapering of the injector tip <NUM>, the cross-sectional dimension (e.g., area, width) of the portion(s) of the plunger assembly <NUM> in contact with the AIOL can decrease as the plunger assembly <NUM> moves distally.

For example, as described in greater detail below, the plunger assembly <NUM> can have a telescoping structure including an inner member (e.g., a plunger tip <NUM>) that is movable relative to an outer member (e.g., a frame structure <NUM>). The inner and outer members can have a combined cross-sectional dimension (e.g., width) that is narrower than the proximal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM> but wider than the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM>. During a first stage of AIOL delivery, the plunger assembly <NUM> can have a first configuration (e.g., a shortened and/or collapsed configuration) in which the inner member is positioned at least partially within the outer member so that these components engage and contact the AIOL together. During a second stage of AIOL delivery, the plunger assembly <NUM> can move telescopically into a second configuration (e.g., an extended configuration) in which the inner member is positioned distally relative to the outer member and engages the AIOL without the outer member. As a result, the inner member contacts the AIOL during the most of or the entire process, while the outer member remains in contact until the injector tip <NUM> becomes too narrow to allow further distal movement of the outer member.

Referring to <FIG> (assembled view) and <NUM>-<NUM> (exploded views), in some embodiments, for example, the plunger assembly <NUM> includes a base <NUM>, a plunger tip <NUM>, and/or a frame structure <NUM>. The base <NUM> can include an adapter portion <NUM> and a stem <NUM> (<FIG>) extending distally from the adapter portion <NUM>. The adapter portion <NUM> can be coupled to the distal portion <NUM> of the injector <NUM> (e.g., to a distal extension <NUM> of the plunger <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>).

The plunger tip <NUM> is configured to engage with and push against the AIOL. In some embodiments, the plunger tip <NUM> is made of a flexible, compliant, and/or resilient material, such as silicone. The plunger tip <NUM> can include an inner cavity (not shown) shaped to receive the distal end <NUM> of the stem <NUM>, a body portion <NUM>, and an end portion <NUM> shaped to engage the AIOL. The plunger tip <NUM> can have a hammer-like shape, with the end portion <NUM> being wider than the body portion <NUM>. The body portion <NUM> can have an elongated (e.g., cylindrical) shape. The end portion <NUM> can have a concave end surface shaped to receive and conform to the corresponding surface of the AIOL. In some embodiments, the end surface of the end portion <NUM> has a generally polygonal (e.g., rectangular) or curved (e.g., circular or oval-shaped) face when viewed in the proximal direction from a point distal of the end portion <NUM>.

The frame structure <NUM> can be configured to engage with and push against the AIOL in conjunction with the plunger tip <NUM>. The frame structure <NUM> can be disposed at least partially around the plunger tip <NUM>. For example, the frame structure <NUM> can include a ring <NUM> and one or more prongs <NUM> extending distally from the ring <NUM>. The prongs <NUM> can be positioned on opposite sides of the ring <NUM> and can extend parallel to each other along the longitudinal axis of the plunger assembly <NUM>. The ring <NUM> can be seated around the plunger tip <NUM> (e.g., around the body portion <NUM> and/or a narrowed neck portion <NUM>). The prongs <NUM> can extend along the body portion <NUM> of the plunger tip <NUM> and terminate at or near the end portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> are arranged in a telescoping configuration, such that the plunger tip <NUM> can be moved distally relative to the frame structure <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate sequential steps in a delivery of an AIOL <NUM> from the tip assembly <NUM>. Referring first to <FIG> (top cross-sectional view) and 17O (side cross-sectional view), the AIOL <NUM> is initially positioned within the injector tip <NUM>, e.g., within the proximal portion <NUM>. The proximal portion <NUM> can be wider than the AIOL <NUM> such that the AIOL <NUM> is initially in an uncompressed resting configuration. The plunger assembly <NUM> can be initially positioned proximal to the AIOL <NUM> and injector tip <NUM>, with the plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> near a proximal surface <NUM> of the AIOL <NUM>.

Referring next to <FIG> (top cross-sectional view) and 17Q (side cross-sectional view), when the plunger <NUM> (not shown) is actuated, the actuation force can be transmitted to the plunger assembly <NUM>, causing the plunger assembly <NUM> to advance distally into the injector tip <NUM>. The plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> of the plunger assembly <NUM> can both advance towards and engage the proximal surface <NUM> of the AIOL <NUM>, thereby pushing the AIOL <NUM> towards the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM>. For example, the plunger tip <NUM> can contact the AIOL <NUM> via the end portion <NUM>, while the frame structure <NUM> can contact the AIOL <NUM> via the prongs <NUM>. In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> has a tapered shape with the distal portion <NUM> being narrower than the AIOL <NUM>, such that the AIOL <NUM> is compressed into a delivery configuration as it is pushed distally through the injector tip <NUM>. As previously described herein, the geometry of the injector tip <NUM> or at least a portion thereof (e.g., distal portion <NUM>) can be selected to facilitate compression of the AIOL <NUM> into the delivery configuration.

Referring to <FIG> (top cross-sectional view) and <NUM> (side cross-sectional view), as actuation continues, the plunger assembly <NUM> is advanced further through the injector tip <NUM> towards the distal portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the injector tip <NUM> tapers to a width narrower than the combined width of the plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM>, such that the frame structure <NUM> is constrained by the inner walls of the injector tip <NUM> and does not continue to move distally. The plunger tip <NUM> can separate from the frame structure <NUM> and continue to move towards the distal portion <NUM>, such that the AIOL <NUM> is engaged and pushed distally by the plunger tip <NUM> (e.g., via end portion <NUM>), and not by the frame structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> (closeup top cross-sectional view) and 17U (closeup side cross-sectional view), as delivery continues, the AIOL <NUM> is pushed out of the distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM> and into the patient's eye. The AIOL <NUM> can revert to its uncompressed resting configuration as it exits the distal portion <NUM>.

The system <NUM> is expected to provide several advantages over conventional systems for AIOL delivery. For example, the tip assembly <NUM> can be used to adapt many different types of injectors for AIOL delivery, thus allowing the methods herein to be performed with a wide variety of devices, including commercially available devices. As another example, the tapered geometry of the injector tip <NUM> can gradually deform the AIOL from its normal state to a compressed state for delivery, without damaging the AIOL. The narrowed distal portion <NUM> of the injector tip <NUM> can also reduce the incision size in the patient's eye. Additionally, the telescoping configuration of the plunger tip <NUM> and the frame structure <NUM> can allow for smoother and more effective delivery of the AIOL through the tapered injector tip <NUM> and into the eye, while maintaining sufficient surface area in contact with the AIOL during actuation to reduce the risk of damage thereto.

<FIG> illustrate various embodiments of plunger tips and frame structures capable of use with the AIOL delivery systems described herein (e.g., delivery system <NUM> of <FIG>). The plunger tips and frame structures described herein can be similar to the plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM>, respectively, described above with respect to <FIG>. Accordingly, the discussion of the embodiments illustrated in <FIG> will be limited to those features that differ from the embodiments discussed with respect to <FIG>. It will be appreciated that the features of the embodiments described with respect to <FIG> can be combined with each other or with any other embodiment described herein.

<FIG> illustrate a plunger tip <NUM> and a frame structure <NUM> of a plunger assembly. The plunger tip <NUM> has an elongated body portion <NUM> terminating in a distal end surface <NUM>. The body portion <NUM> can have an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The end surface <NUM> can be a curved (e.g., concave) surface configured to receive and conform to the corresponding surface of an AIOL. The frame structure <NUM> can be positioned at least partially around the plunger tip <NUM>. The frame structure <NUM> can include an elliptical ring <NUM> and one or more prongs <NUM> extending distally from the ring <NUM>. The ring <NUM> can be seated around the plunger tip <NUM> (e.g., around the body portion <NUM> and/or a narrowed neck portion <NUM>). The prongs <NUM> can extend along the body portion <NUM> of the plunger tip <NUM> and terminate at or near the end surface <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a plunger tip <NUM>. The plunger tip <NUM> can be generally similar to the plunger tip <NUM> described with respect to <FIG>, except that the body portion <NUM> has a circular cross-sectional shape. The plunger tip <NUM> can include a narrowed neck portion <NUM> for coupling to a frame structure (not shown).

<FIG> illustrates a frame structure <NUM>. The frame structure <NUM> can be generally similar to the frame structure <NUM> described with respect to <FIG>, except that the frame structure <NUM> includes a circular ring <NUM>. A pair of prongs <NUM> extend distally from the ring <NUM>. The frame structure <NUM> can be coupled to a plunger tip having a circular cross-sectional shape, such as the plunger tip <NUM> described with respect to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a frame structure <NUM>. The frame structure <NUM> includes a first, proximal arcuate element 2152a and a second, distal arcuate element 2152b (collectively, <NUM>) connected to each other by a pair of prongs <NUM>. The arcuate elements <NUM> can have a semi-circular or semi-elliptical shape. In some embodiments, the first arcuate element 2152a has a smaller diameter than the second arcuate element 2152b. In some embodiments, one or both of the arcuate elements <NUM> extend over more than a <NUM>° portion of a corresponding body portion (not shown). In some such embodiments, the frame structure <NUM> is constructed from a flexible and/or resilient material configured to flex to allow mating (e.g., snap-fitting) of the frame structure <NUM> with a body portion.

<FIG> illustrates a plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> capable of use with a spring-loaded injector (not shown). The plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> can be coupled to an injector as previously described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG>- not shown). In some embodiments, the injector is spring-loaded, such that the injector includes and/or is coupled to at least one spring element. The spring element(s) can facilitate engagement of the plunger tip <NUM> and/or frame structure <NUM> with an AIOL (not shown), e.g., by applying a spring force that is transmitted to an AIOL via the plunger tip <NUM> and/or frame structure <NUM>. Configurations of spring-loaded injectors suitable for use with the embodiments disclosed herein are known to those of skill in the art. For example, in some embodiments, a spring-loaded injector is configured such that actuation of the injector or a component thereof (e.g., pushing on a plunger of the injector) compresses at least one spring element. When the user releases the injector, the spring element(s) revert towards their uncompressed state, thus causing the injector or component thereof to spring back. Accordingly, this configuration can allow an AIOL to be controllably delivered from the injector with repeated actuations (e.g., pushes). As another example, a spring-loaded injector can be configured with a screw-like mechanism, such that the injector or a component thereof is actuated by rotation (e.g., rotation of a plunger of the injector). The rotation of the injector or component thereof can compress at least one spring element. When the injector is released, the spring element(s) revert towards their uncompressed state, thus causing the injector or component thereof to spring back along a rotational trajectory. This configuration can allow an AIOL to be controllably delivered from the injector with repeated rotational actuations of the injector or component thereof.

<FIG> illustrates a plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> with a spring element <NUM>. The spring element <NUM> (e.g., a helical spring, resilient sleeve, or other elastic element or spring structure) can be coupled to the frame structure <NUM> immediately proximal to the ring <NUM> to apply a distally-directed force against the frame structure <NUM>. The frame structure <NUM> can transmit this force to the plunger tip <NUM> via contact between the ring <NUM> and the body portion <NUM> of the plunger tip <NUM>. The force applied by the spring element <NUM> can improve the engagement of the plunger tip <NUM> and/or frame structure <NUM> with an AIOL (not shown). In some embodiments, when frictional and/or interference forces between the frame structure <NUM> and an inner wall of an injector tip overcome the biasing force of the spring element <NUM>, the frame structure <NUM> is configured to retract from the body portion <NUM> of the plunger tip <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the spring element <NUM> is used to control the force or load applied to an AIOL during delivery. For example, the plunger tip <NUM> and frame structure <NUM> can be coupled to an injector as previously described herein (e.g., with respect to <FIG>), such that actuation of the injector compresses the spring element <NUM>. During AIOL delivery, the user can actuate the injector until the spring element <NUM> is loaded (e.g., the user feels a stop). The spring element <NUM> can decompress, thereby transmitting the load to the frame structure <NUM> and/or plunger tip <NUM>, which in turn pushes the AIOL in a distal direction. When the AIOL stops moving, the user can then actuate the injector again to re-load the spring element <NUM> and push the AIOL further along the distal direction. This process can be repeated to deliver the AIOL into the eye through a series of incremental distal movements. As a result, the forces on the AIOL can be controlled (e.g., limited) by the spring element <NUM>, rather than by the user. This incremental delivery method is expected to improve AIOL delivery by increasing the likelihood that the AIOL is delivered in the desired orientation (e.g., without flipping or inverting), reducing the likelihood of damage to the AIOL (e.g., due to excessive forces or pressures), and/or allowing for a simpler actuation procedure (e.g., one-handed actuation). Additionally, in some embodiments, this method allows the fluid within the AIOL to pass from the portion of the AIOL within the distal portion of the injector tip to the portion of the AIOL distal to the injector tip before additional force is applied to the AIOL. As a result, the internal pressure in the portion of the AIOL compressed within the distal portion of the injector tip can be reduced. This fluid transfer and consequent expansion to the portion of the AIOL distal to the injector tip can also pull the AIOL along the distal direction, thus allowing for continued distal movement of the AIOL even after the spring element <NUM> has fully decompressed.

<FIG> illustrate a plunger tip <NUM> having an end portion <NUM> with a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape. The plunger tip <NUM> can also include an elongated body portion <NUM> and a narrowed neck portion <NUM> (e.g., for coupling to a frame structure (not shown)). The geometry of the end portion <NUM> can be varied as desired to facilitate engagement with an AIOL. For example, the end portion <NUM> can include a concave distal face <NUM> shaped to engage a corresponding surface of the AIOL.

<FIG> illustrates a plunger tip <NUM> having a beveled end portion <NUM>. The plunger tip <NUM> can be generally similar to the plunger tip <NUM> described with respect to <FIG>, except that the end portion <NUM> includes a flat surface <NUM> and a beveled surface <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a plunger tip <NUM> having an end portion <NUM> including a pair of protrusions 2610a and 2610b (collectively, <NUM>). The end portion <NUM> can be connected to an elongated body portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the plunger tip <NUM> is configured to be used without a frame structure, such that the plunger tip <NUM> does not include any narrowed neck portions. The end portion <NUM> can include a concave distal face <NUM>, similar to the end portion <NUM> described with respect to <FIG>. The end portion <NUM> can have a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape with the protrusions <NUM> being located on opposite lateral sides of the end portion <NUM>. The protrusions <NUM> can each have a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape.

<FIG> illustrate a plunger tip <NUM> having a rounded end portion <NUM>. The end portion <NUM> can be connected to an elongated body portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the plunger tip <NUM> is configured to be used without a frame structure, such that the plunger tip <NUM> does not include any narrowed neck portions. The end portion <NUM> can include a concave distal surface <NUM>, similar to the embodiments described with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>. The end portion <NUM> can have a rounded shape in which opposing lateral sides 2712a and 2712b are curved and opposing lateral sides 2714a and <NUM> b are straight.

<FIG> illustrate a plunger tip <NUM> having a sheath structure <NUM>. The sheath structure <NUM> is positioned around an elongated body portion <NUM>. The body portion <NUM> can be generally similar to the body portion <NUM> described with respect to <FIG>. The sheath structure <NUM> can be an elongated hollow component having a lumen <NUM> shaped to receive the body portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sheath structure <NUM> includes an internal flange <NUM> and/or one or more internal protrusions configured to releasably couple with an indentation or neck portion <NUM> on the body portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the body portion <NUM> and the sheath structure <NUM> each have an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The body portion <NUM> and sheath structure <NUM> can be arranged in a telescoping configuration to facilitate delivery of an AIOL, with the body portion <NUM> serving as the inner member and the sheath structure <NUM> serving as the outer member. This approach can be generally similar to the approach previously described with respect to <FIG>, except that the sheath structure <NUM> is used instead of a frame structure. For example, during a first stage of AIOL delivery, the body portion <NUM> can be located within the sheath structure <NUM> so that both the body portion <NUM> and the sheath structure <NUM> contact and push against the AIOL. During a second, subsequent stage of AIOL delivery, the body portion <NUM> can be moved distally out of the sheath structure <NUM> so that body portion <NUM> contacts and pushes against the AIOL without the sheath structure <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a plunger tip <NUM> having a sheath structure <NUM> with prongs 2972a-b. The plunger tip <NUM> can have an elongated body portion <NUM> coupled to an end portion <NUM>. The body portion <NUM> and end portion <NUM> can be generally similar to the corresponding embodiments described with respect to <FIG>. The sheath structure <NUM> can be an elongated hollow component including a lumen <NUM> shaped to receive the body portion <NUM> and/or the end portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sheath structure <NUM> includes an internal flange <NUM> and/or one or more internal protrusions configured to releasably couple with an indentation or neck portion <NUM> on the body portion <NUM>. A pair of prongs 2972a-b can be coupled to the exterior surface of the sheath structure <NUM>. The prongs 2972a-b can have a length greater than the length of the sheath structure <NUM>, such that the prongs 2972a-b extend past the distal end of the sheath structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sheath structure <NUM> includes more than two prongs <NUM> attached thereto.

The body portion <NUM> and sheath structure <NUM> can be arranged in a telescoping configuration to facilitate delivery of an AIOL, similar to the approach described with respect to <FIG>. For example, during a first stage of AIOL delivery, the body portion <NUM> can be located within the sheath structure <NUM>, with the end portion <NUM> extending distally outwards from the sheath structure <NUM> and between the prongs 2972a-b. Thus, both the end portion <NUM> and the prongs 2972a-b can contact and push against the AIOL. During a second, subsequent stage of AIOL delivery, the body portion <NUM> can be moved distally out of the sheath structure <NUM> and past the prongs <NUM>, so that the end portion <NUM> contacts and pushes against the AIOL without the prongs 2972a-b.

As one of skill in the art will appreciate from the disclosure herein, various components of the AIOL delivery systems described above can be omitted without deviating from the scope of the present technology. Likewise, additional components not explicitly described above may be added to the AIOL delivery systems without deviating from the scope of the present technology. Accordingly, the systems described herein are not limited to those configurations expressly identified, but rather encompasses variations and alterations of the described systems.

The above detailed description of embodiments of the technology are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise form disclosed above. Although specific embodiments of, and examples for, the technology are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technology as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, any of the features of the injectors described herein may be combined with any of the features of the other injectors described herein and vice versa. Moreover, although steps are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform steps in a different order. The various embodiments described herein may also be combined to provide further embodiments.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the technology have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but well-known structures and functions associated with injectors have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments of the technology. Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also include the plural or singular term, respectively.

Claim 1:
A tip assembly for delivering an AIOL into a patient's eye, the tip assembly comprising:
an injector tip (<NUM>) configured to receive the AIOL, the injector tip including a proximal portion (<NUM>) and a distal portion (<NUM>) configured to be inserted at least partially into the patient's eye, wherein the injector tip has a tapered shape such that the proximal portion (<NUM>) is wider than the distal portion (<NUM>);
a plunger assembly (<NUM>) positionable at least partially within the injector tip (<NUM>), the plunger assembly being movable between a first configuration and a second configuration to push the AIOL distally out of the injector tip (<NUM>) and into the patient's eye, wherein the plunger assembly includes:
a plunger tip (<NUM>) comprising
a widened end portion (<NUM>) shaped to engage the AIOL and
an elongated body portion (<NUM>) coupled to the widened end portion, and
a frame structure (<NUM>) coupled to the plunger tip (<NUM>) in a telescoping arrangement such that:
(a) when the plunger assembly (<NUM>) is in the first configuration, the plunger tip (<NUM>) is positioned at least partially within the frame structure (<NUM>) so that the plunger tip and frame structure both engage the AIOL, and
(b) when the plunger assembly (<NUM>) is in the second configuration, the plunger tip (<NUM>) is positioned distally relative to the frame structure so that the plunger tip engages the AIOL without the frame structure.