I. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In a conventional contact lens package, the contact lens typically sits in a molded plastic base having a cavity (or "bowl") that houses the contact lens in a concave-side-up orientation. As a result, the user experience for transferring a contact lens from the package to an eye generally involves the user "fishing" the contact lens out of the bowl with a finger and then flipping the lens so that it is in the correct orientation on the finger for placement on the eye. This process requires touching the lens multiple times, which can transfer contaminants or pathogens from the hand to the lens and ultimately to the eye. Not only is this handling experience unsanitary, but it is also unduly cumbersome, messy, and mechanically stressful to the lens, which can tear, rip, or distort when overly manipulated. While some packages have been designed to present the lens in a convex-side-up orientation to obviate the need forflipping the lens, they often still require the lens to be "fished" from the packaging solution or otherwise necessitate manipulation of the lens and/or multiple touches of the lens to achieve transfer of the lens to the eye.

In view of the growing awareness around ocular health and the customer demand for a more convenient experience, a need has arisen for contact lens packaging that enables a less messy and more sanitary contact lens handling process. In one respect, it would be ideal to provide wearers of contact lenses with a "single touch" or "no touch" package— that is, a package whereby the wearer of contact lenses can take the lens from the lens storage package via a holder which also allows for the user to position the lens correctly on the eye without touching the lens with his or her fingers at all. In such a design, there would be no need for transfer and manipulation of the lens from one finger to another before placing the lens on the eye. Providing such a no-touch package would not only streamline the lens preparation and insertion process; it would also diminish the possibility of dropping the lens or exposing the lens to additional bacteria on a wearer's other fingers as the lens is being prepared for orientation and insertion onto the eye, and it also reduces the possibility of touching the side of the lens which is intended to contact the eye.

Known packages that have sought to provide single-touch or no-touch orientations fail to provide one or more of the above-noted desired attributes for a reduce-touch package. For example, KR101823613 discloses an apparatus for wearing of a contact lens which includes a cylindrical shaped casing that houses a piston pressing memberwith a contact lens mount, which allows a user to apply the contact lens without touching it. However, the apparatus does not include a cap and container which are sealedly coupled to one another. The reference is also silent as to mechanisms for effective solution drainage of solution. Additionally, KR2018037391, US4079976A, US4071272A, and US5941583A disclose tools for handling a contact lens, which allow a user to apply the contact lens without touching it. However, these devices are not configured to provide a sterile environment for storing a contact lens during shipping and before first use.

Thus, there remains a need for contact lens packages which provide a no-touch removal experience, effective solution management, or addresses one or a combination of the aforementioned challenges or deficiencies. II. SUMMARY

It has now been found that some or all the foregoing and related objects may be attained in a contact lens package having one or more aspects described herein. For example, a contact lens package of the invention may house a contact lens and packaging solution wherein the contact lens may be adhered to a portion of the applicator cap, by which the user may insert the contact lens into the wearer's eye without touching the contact lens. The user may manipulate the applicator cap to dislodge the contact lens from the cap.

In an aspect, an example contact lens package is described herein. The contact lens package includes an applicator cap including a handle portion having a first end, a second end, and a body that extends between the first end and the second end. The body defines an inner lumen. Additionally, the first end includes a lumen seal, and the second end defines a concave surface extending circumferentially about the inner lumen. The contact lens package further includes a container having a reservoir configured to house a contact lens and packaging solution. The container is sealedly couplable to the applicator cap. In addition, the second end is configured to form a seal against a convex surface of the contact lens, and the applicator cap is configured to dislodge the contact lens from the second end in response to deformation of the body.

In another aspect, the concave surface of the second end is configured to form the seal against the convex surface of the contact lens.

In another aspect, the seal is due to surface tension the contact lens and the concave surface of the second end. Alternatively or additionally, the seal is due to a partial vacuum within the inner lumen. In another aspect, the inner lumen extends from the lumen seal and through the concave surface of the second end. The concave surface of the second end is arranged concentrically around the inner lumen.

In another aspect, the applicator cap houses a volume of gas within the inner lumen. Optionally, a pressure of the volume of gas within the inner lumen is less than a pressure within the reservoir. Alternatively, a pressure of the volume of gas within the inner lumen is optionally substantially equal to a pressure within the reservoir.

In another aspect, the reservoir is arranged between the applicator cap and the container. Optionally, the applicator cap and the container collectively surround the reservoir. Alternatively or additionally, the applicator cap and the container collectively define the reservoir.

In another aspect, the applicator cap includes a first seal surface, and the container includes a second seal surface that corresponds to the first seal surface. The first and second seal surfaces are configured to hermetically seal the applicator cap and the container. Optionally, the first seal surface abuts the second seal surface when the contact lens package is in an unopened state. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second seal surfaces optionally include corresponding threads and grooves.

In another aspect, the contact lens package further includes a packaging label disposed about the applicator cap and the container. Optionally, the packaging label is configured to secure the applicator cap and the container together.

In another aspect, the container includes a support mechanism disposed within the reservoir. Optionally, the support mechanism is dome-shaped. Alternatively or additionally, the support mechanism defines a support surface that is configured to support the contact lens within the reservoir. Optionally, the support surface is configured to engage a concave surface of the contact lens. Optionally, the support surface is a convex surface.

In another aspect, the applicator cap and the container are made of a uniform material. Optionally, at least one of the applicator cap and the container are made of plastic.

In an aspect, an example method of applying a contact lens to a wearer's eye is described herein. The contact lens is stored in a contact lens package, for example, as described herein. The method includes twisting the handle portion of the applicator cap relative to the container, where said twisting uncouples the applicator cap and the container; and presenting, using the handle portion, the contact lens in proximity to the wearer's eye in an insertion orientation. The method also includes squeezing the body to dislodge the contact lens from the second end; and applying the contact lens to the wearer's eye.

In another aspect, said squeezing breaks the seal formed against the convex surface of the contact lens. Alternatively or additionally, said squeezing displaces a volume of gas housed within the inner lumen.

In another aspect, the step of applying the contact lens to the wearer's eye is performed without the wearer touching the contact lens.

In an aspect, an example method of packaging a contact lens is also described herein. The method includes providing packaging solution in a container; and placing a contact lens in a convex-side-up orientation in the container. The method also includes providing an applicator cap including a handle portion having a first end, a second end, and a body that extends between the first end and the second end, the body defining an inner lumen, the first end including a lumen seal, and the second end defining a concave surface extending circumferentially about the inner lumen. The method further includes inserting the second end into the container such that the concave surface of the second end is adjacent to a convex surface of the contact lens.

In another aspect, the method optionally further includes manipulating the handle portion to form a seal against the convex surface of the contact lens.

In another aspect, the method optionally further includes applying a packaging label to secure the container and the applicator cap.

III. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following, more particular description of preferred embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view illustrating a contact lens package for no-touch application in unopened state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. IB is a perspective view illustrating the contact lens package of FIG. 1A in an opened state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the contact lens package along a plane intersecting line A-A' in FIG. 1A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate steps of handling the contact lens package of FIGS. 1A-1B according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3A illustrates how the applicator cap and the container are twisted to open the package. FIG. 3B illustrates how the contact lens is disposed on the applicator cap once the package is opened. FIG. 3C illustrates how the contact lens is dislodged from the cap for insertion into the wearer's eye. IV. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein reference numerals indicate certain elements. The following descriptions are not intended to limit the myriad embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "an example embodiment," etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, aspect, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, aspect, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

As used herein, the following terms have the following meaning. A benefit of the certain embodiments the present invention is that they facilitate consistent no-touch lens transfer from the package to a wearer's eye without the lens inverting, falling off the holder or further manipulation. The lens also desirably "sits up" on the holder without collapsing or inverting and then transfers to the eye when placed there.

Lens(es) or contact lens(es) refer to ophthalmic devices that reside on the eye. They have a generally hemispheric shape and can provide optical correction, cosmetic enhancement, UV blocking and visible light or glare reduction, therapeutic effect, including wound healing, delivery of drugs or neutraceuticals, diagnostic evaluation or monitoring, or any combination thereof. The term lens includes soft hydrogel contact lenses, which are generally provided to the consumer in a package in the hydrated state, and have a relatively low moduli, which allows them to conform to the cornea. Contact lenses suitable for use with the packages of the present invention include all hydrated contact lenses, including conventional and silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

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

Conventional hydrogel contact lenses do not contain silicone containing components, and generally have higher water content, lower oxygen permeability, moduli, and shape memories than silicone hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels are prepared from monomeric mixtures predominantly containing hydrophilic monomers, such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate ("HEMA"), N-vinyl pyrrolidone ("NVP") or polyvinyl alcohols. United States Patents Nos. 4,495,313, 4,889,664 and 5,039,459 disclose the formation of conventional hydrogels. Conventional hydrogels may be ionic or non-ionic and include polymacon, etafilcon, nelfilcon, ocufilcon lenefilcon and the like. The oxygen permeability of these conventional hydrogel materials is typically below 20-30 barrers.

Silicon hydrogel formulations include balafilcon samfilcon, lotrafilcon A and B, delfilcon, galyfilcon, senofilcon A, B and C, narafilcon, comfilcon, formofilcon, riofilcon, fanfilcon, stenfilcon, somofilcon, kalifilcon and the like. "Silicone hydrogels" refer to polymeric networks made from at least one hydrophilic component and at least one silicone-containing component.

Silicone hydrogels may have moduli in the range of 60-200, 60-150 or 80 -130 psi, water contents in the range of 20 to 60%. Examples of silicone hydrogels include acquafilcon, asmofilcon, balafilcon, comfilcon, delefilcon, enfilcon, fanfilcon, formofilcon, galyfilcon, lotrafilcon, narafilcon, riofilcon, samfilcon, senofilcon, somofilcon, and stenfilcon, verofilcon, including all of their variants, as well as silicone hydrogels as prepared in US Patent Nos. 4,659,782, 4,659,783, 5,244,981, 5,314,960, 5,331,067, 5,371,147, 5,998,498, 6,087,415, 5,760,100, 5,776,999, 5,789,461, 5,849,811, 5,965,631, 6,367,929, 6,822,016, 6,867,245, 6,943,203, 7,247,692, 7,249,848, 7,553,880, 7,666,921, 7,786,185, 7,956,131, 8,022,158, 8,273,802, 8,399,538, 8,470,906, 8,450,387, 8,487,058, 8,507,577, 8,637,621, 8,703,891, 8,937,110, 8,937,111, 8,940,812, 9,056,878, 9,057,821, 9,125,808, 9,140,825, 9156,934, 9,170,349, 9,244,196, 9,244,197, 9,260,544, 9,297,928, 9,297,929 as well as WO 03/22321, WO 2008/061992, and US 2010/0048847. These patents are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Silicone hydrogels may have higher shape memory than conventional contact lenses.

Hydrogel lenses are viscoelastic materials. Contact lenses can form optical distortions if the lens interacts with either the package or any air bubble in the package. The extent of the optical distortions, and the length of time needed for the distortions to relax out will vary depending on the chemistry, and to a lesser extent, geometry of the lens. Conventional lens materials, such as polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate-based lenses like etafilcon A or polymacon have low loss modulus and tan delta compared to silicone hydrogels and may form fewer and less severe optical distortions as a result of contact with packaging. The incorporation of silicones

(which generally increase the bulk elastic response), wetting agents such as PVP (which generally increase the viscous response) or coatings of conventional hydrogel materials (which may lower the elastic response at the lens interface) can alter the lens viscoelastic properties. Conventional hydrogel contact lenses and silicone hydrogel contact lenses having short or stiff crosslinking agents and or stiffening agent have short shape memories and may be less susceptible to deformation during storage. As used herein, high or higher shape memory hydrogels display optical distortions from contact with an air bubble or package of at least about 0.18 after 5 weeks of accelerated aging at 55°C. Viscoelastic properties, including loss modulus and tan delta, can be measured using a dynamic mechanical analysis.

The contact lenses can be of any geometry or power, and have a generally hemispherical shape, with a concave posterior side which rests against the eye when in use and a convex anterior side which faces away from the eye and is contacted by the eyelid during blinking.

The center or apex of the lens is the center of the lens optic zone. The optic zone provides optical correction and may have a diameter between about 7mm and about 10mm. The lens periphery or lens edge is the edge where the anterior and posterior sides meet.

Embodiments may include an applicator cap and a container providing a sealable cavity also interchangeably referred to as a reservoir. The cavity may have any convenient form and may comprise a package bottom floor and walls, each of which are described in detail below. As used herein, the phrases "the applicator cap", "an applicator cap", "the container" and "a container" encompass both the singular and plural. The applicator cap and container are sealed to each other to form a cavity which holds the contact lens and packaging solution in a sterile state during shipping and storage prior to use. The contact lens package is made from materials which are compatible with the contact lens and solution, as well as retortable and biologically inert.

An "unopened state" or "unopened" as used herein refers to a contact lens package that is closed and houses a contact lens in solution.

An "opened state" or "opened" as used herein refers to a contact lens package after the sterile seal has been broken. Depending on the context described herein, the open state extends to the state of the package when the user has manipulated the package to cause the lens to be lifted out of the packaging solution for transfer by the user.

A "wearer" or "user" as used herein refers to a person opening a contact lens package. The user is generally referred to as the person who both opens the package and transfers the contact lens contained therein to their eye. However, the user in some contexts may be a person handling the lens package on behalf of the wearer, such an eye care provider ("ECP") or another individual demonstrating for or assisting the wearer.

Packaging solution is any physiologically compatible solution, which is compatible with the selected lens material and packaging. Packaging solutions include buffered solutions having a physiological pH, such as buffered saline solutions. The packaging solution may contain known components, including buffers, pH and tonicity adjusting agents, lubricants, wetting agents, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, in package coating components and the like.

The applicator cap may form the top of the package. It can be made from any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including plastic. The container may form the bottom of the package. It can be made from any material suitable for packaging medical devices, including plastic. The applicator cap seals with the container to form a cavity containing at least a lens and packaging solution.

References throughout this description to injection molding processes and the use of materials conventionally applied to injection molding should be understood as exemplary. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other means of manufacture are possible within the scope of the appended claims, including but not limited to alternative molding processes, thermoforming, 3D printing, and the like. Likewise, references to heat seals and heat sealing are exemplary to embodiments described herein. Other means of securing packaging components will be apparent to those skilled in the art, including the use of adhesive, glue, thermal bonding, welding such as heat, ultrasonic or laser welding, or a mechanical trap, and the like.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A, IB, and 2, an example contact lens package 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described. The contact lens package 100 includes an applicator cap 102 and a container 104. The container 104 has a reservoir 118 configured to house a contact lens 150 and packaging solution. In an unopened state, the container 104 is sealedly couplable to the applicator cap 102. This is shown in FIG. 1A. In an opened state, the container 104 is uncoupled or detached from the applicator cap 102. This is shown in FIG. IB.

This disclosure contemplates that the applicator cap 102 and the container 104 can be made of suitable materials to protect the contact lens 150 during shipping and storage prior to use, as well as provide a sterile environment for the contact lens 150. Additionally, the materials should be compatible with the contact lens 150 and packaging solution, as well as biologically inert. This disclosure contemplates that one or more portions of the package 100 (e.g., the container) may have sufficient rigidity to protect the contact lens 150 from physical damage (e.g., to protect the lens's integrity). Alternatively or additionally, one or more portions of the package 100 (e.g., the handle body) may have sufficient flexibility to permit manipulation by a user. In some aspects, the applicator cap 102 and the container 104 are made of a uniform material, for example, a plastic. Alternatively, in other aspects, the applicator cap 102 and the container 104 are made of different materials, which may include but are not limited to different plastics. It should be understood that plastics are provided only as an example material for the package 100. Examples of preferred suitable materials for the applicator cap 102 and/or container 104 include polyolefins including polypropylene, and olefin co-polymers, including COPs (Cyclic Olefin Polymer) and COCs, (Cyclic Olefin Co-polymers), and blends thereof.

In some aspects, the applicator cap 102 includes a handle portion having a first end 108, a second end 106, and a body 110 that extends between the first end 108 and the second end 106. As described in detail below, a user interacts with the handle portion of the applicator cap 102 when applying the contact lens 150 to the wearer's eye. For example, the user may grip or pinch the handle portion of the applicator cap 102 using a thumb and finger. Accordingly, the size and/or shape of the body 110 can be designed to facilitate such interactions. Additionally, the body 110 defines an inner lumen 112. The body 110 is therefore a tube-like structure. The inner lumen 112 is shown in FIGS. IB and 2. Additionally, the thickness of the body 112 (and/or its material) can be designed to facilitate deformation, and optionally elastic deformation, which causes the contact lens 150 to dislodge from the handle portion (described below). The first end 108 includes a lumen seal 114. In some implementations, the lumen seal 114 and the body 110 are parts of a single component, for example, a unitary component formed from the same material. In other aspects, the lumen seal 114 and the body 110 are different components that are bonded together. In these aspects, the lumen seal 114 and the body 110 may be made from the same material or different materials. Additionally, the second end 106 defines a concave surface 116 extending circumferentially about the inner lumen 112. Optionally, the concave surface 116 of the second end 106 is arranged concentrically around the inner lumen 112. This is shown in FIG. IB. In some aspects, the inner lumen 112 extends from the lumen seal 114 and through the concave surface 116 of the second end 106. This is shown in FIG. 2. It should be understood that the lumen seal 114 closes or covers the inner lumen 112 at one end of the handle portion (i.e., the first end 108). In other words, the lumen seal 114 seals the inner lumen 112 from an external environment at one end, while the inner lumen 112 is open or exposed at the other end (i.e., the second end 106).

As described above, the container 104 has a reservoir 118. As shown in FIG. 2, the reservoir 118 is arranged between the applicator cap 102 and the container 104. The internal surfaces of the applicator cap 102 and the container 104 define the reservoir 118 (e.g., walls, floor, ceiling, etc. of the reservoir). The reservoir 118 is the cavity that houses the contact lens 150 and packaging solution in a sterile state. It should be understood that the size and/or shape of the reservoir 118 shown in FIG. 2 are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates that the reservoir 118 can be other shapes and/or sizes than shown in the figures.

Optionally, in some aspects, the container 104 includes a support mechanism 130 disposed within the reservoir 118. The support mechanism 130 defines a support surface that is configured to support the contact lens 150 within the reservoir 118. This is shown in FIG. 2. For example, the contact lens 150 is housed in the reservoir 118 with a convex-side-up (or concave- side-down) orientation. The support surface of the support mechanism 130 is therefore shaped to support a concave surface of the contact lens 150 to mitigate optical damage to the lens under forces applied during manufacture, storage, or user handling. For example, the support mechanism 130 is optionally dome-shaped. In these aspects, the support surface is a convex surface, which is complementary to the concave surface of the contact lens 150. In some implementations, the concave surface of the contact lens 150 is in contact with (i.e., at least partially rests on) the convex support surface when the package 100 is in an unopened state. In other implementations, the convex surface of the contact lens 150 is adhered to the second end 106 of the applicator cap 102 (described above) when the package 100 is in an unopened state. In these implementations, the concave surface of the contact lens 150 is not in contact with the convex support surface, i.e., there is a space therebetween filled by packaging solution. Furthermore, the also lens support mechanism may include one or more recessed channels (not shown) that lead from the circumference of the lens to near the center of the lens to allow air entering the packaging upon opening to be channeled beneath the lens upon opening and therefore allow the lens to preferentially attach to the concave applicator cap. The space between the edge of the contact lens 150 and the side wall of container 104 also should be wide enough for air to channel under neath the leans (e.g., at least 1.5mm). The gap need not be continuous around the periphery of the lens but have entry routes where air can enter. It should also be understood that the size and/or shape of the support mechanism 130 shown in FIG. 2 are provided only as an example. It is noted that the gap between support mechanism 130 and the concave applicator surface 152 of the interior portion of applicator cap 102 should be made as small as possible, i.e., roughly the thickness of the contact lens 150 plus a tolerance (e.g., 0.2mm) on each side. This will ensure that, upon opening, aid the lens in becoming properly lodged/seated on the lens applicator and reduce the likelihood of the lens traveling to other areas of the package. This disclosure contemplates that the support mechanism 130 can be other shapes and/or sizes than shown in the figures and/or omitted altogether.

In some aspects, the applicator cap 102 includes a first seal surface 122, and the container 104 includes a second seal surface 124 that corresponds to the first seal surface 122. The first seal surface 122 abuts the second seal surface 124 when the contact lens package 100 is in an unopened state. This is shown in FIG. 2. The first and second seal surfaces 122, 124 are configured to hermetically seal the applicator cap 102 and the container 104 when the package 100 is in an unopened state. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second seal surfaces 122, 124 are configured to provide a sterile seal when the package 100 is in an unopened state. Optionally, in some implementations, each of the first and second seal surfaces 122, 124 are tapered to provide an angled seal between the applicator cap 102 and the container 104. Optionally, in some implementations, the first and second seal surfaces 122, 124 are configured to provide for a friction fit between at least portions of the applicator cap 102 and the container 104. Optionally, in some implementations, the first and second seal surfaces 122, 124 include corresponding threads and grooves. As another exemplary option, in some implementations, the first and second seal surfaces 122, 124 may incorporate a beaded rim to seal on or a conical push fit.

In some aspects, the contact lens package 100 further includes a packaging label 120 disposed about the applicator cap 102 and the container 104. This is shown in FIG. 1A. The packaging label 120 is configured to secure the applicator cap 102 and the container 104 together. Optionally, the packaging label 120 is foil and is disposed about a circumference of the applicator cap 102 and the container 104, forming a mechanical and hermetic seal between the applicator cap 102 and the container 104. In some embodiments, the label may be sealed via a circular weld on both the applicator and container or with two concentric welds. Foil is anisotropic such that it is weaker in torsion than either of its longer dimensions, which results in the packaging label 120 shearing/tearing responsive to twisting the applicator cap 102 relative to the container 104 or vice versa. This is shown in FIG. IB. It should be understood that foil (e.g., aluminum foil) is provided only as an example material for the packaging label 120. This disclosure contemplates that the packaging label 120 can be made of other materials including, but not limited to, waxed paper, polyester sheet, or any other suitable material for securing the applicator cap 102 and the container 104.

In some aspects, the second end 106 is configured to form a seal against a convex surface of the contact lens 150. This is shown in FIGS. IB and 2. It should be understood that the contact lens 150, when adhered to the concave surface 116, is provided in the correct orientation for insertion into the wearer's eye. In some implementations, the seal is due to surface tension. As described herein, the reservoir 118 houses the contact lens 150 and packaging solution. The contact lens 150 is therefore in a wetted state. Accordingly, the contact lens 150 adheres to the second end 106 as a result of an adhesive force due to surface tension as a result of packaging solution absorbed by the contact lens 150. Alternatively or additionally, the surface tension is due to a layer of packaging solution (e.g., a thin layer or film) that is disposed between the second end 106 and the convex surface of the contact lens 150. This disclosure contemplates that the applicator cap 102 can be positioned, for example by a user, to touch the contact lens 150 such that the contact lens 150 adheres to the concave surface 116, which extends circumferentially about the inner lumen 112. It should be understood that the size and/or shape of the concave surface 115 can be designed to achieve sufficient surface tension to adhere to the convex surface of the contact lens 150. Such design may include, for example, engineering the surface area of the concave surface 116 (e.g., by changing its radial width). As described in further detail below, the applicator cap 102 is configured to dislodge the contact lens 150 from the second end 106 in response to deformation of the body 110, e.g., by displacing the volume of gas housed within the inner lumen 118.

Alternatively or additionally, the seal is due to a partial vacuum within the inner lumen 118. For example, the applicator cap 102 houses a volume of gas within the inner lumen 112. Optionally, a pressure of the volume of gas within the inner lumen 112 can be decreased less than a pressure within the reservoir 118 (i.e., creating a partial vacuum). A partial vacuum can be achieved, for example, by: (i) deforming the body 110, (ii) contacting the contact lens 150 with the second end 106, and (iii) releasing the body 110. In these implementations, the body 110 acts as a bulb vacuum pump, creating a partial vacuum within the inner lumen 118, which adheres the convex surface of the contact lens 150 to the concave surface 116. Similarly as above, the applicator cap 102 is configured to dislodge the contact lens 150 from the second end 106 in response to deformation of the body 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, an example method of applying a contact lens to a wearer's eye is described. In FIGS. 3A-3C, the user is handling the contact lens package 100 shown in FIGS. 1A, IB, and 2. In FIG. 3A, a user twists the applicator cap 102 relative to the container 104 or vice versa to open the package 100. For example, the user may grip or pinch the handle portion of the applicator cap 102 using a thumb and finger of one hand and also grip or pinch the container 104 using a thumb and finger of the other hand. The user then twists the handle portion of the applicator cap 102 relative to the container 104 or vice versa to break the seal between the applicator cap 102 and the container 104. It should be understood that this may include tearing the packaging label (if present).

In FIG. 3B, the user presents the contact lens 150 to a position in proximity to the wearer's eye in an insertion orientation. As described above, the contact lens 150 is housed inside the package with a convex-side-up (or concave-side-down) orientation. Thus, the second end of the applicator cap 102 (see e.g., second end 106 in FIGS. 1A and IB) is configured to adhere to the convex surface of the contact lens 150 as shown in FIG. 3B. This allows the user to manipulate the contact lens 150 without the wearer touching the contact lens 150. Plus, the contact lens 150, when adhered to the applicator cap 102, is provided in the correct orientation for insertion into the wearer's eye. Moreover, excess packaging fluid is drained directly into the container by gravity force, avoiding excessive spillage. In some implementations, the second end of the applicator cap 102 is sealed against the convex surface of the contact lens 150 when the package is in the unopened state. Such a seal against the convex surface of the contact lens 150 may be achieved by surface tension, partial vacuum within the inner lumen, or combinations thereof. As noted above, for example, lens support 130 may include recessed channels (not shown) to allow air to be channeled under the contact lens 150 upon opening th us urging the contact lens upward toward the applicator cap. In other implementations, the user manipulates the applicator cap 102 to form a seal against the convex surface of the contact lens 150 when the package is in the opened state. This can be accomplished by contacting the second end of the applicator cap 102 to the convex surface of the contact lens 150. Alternatively, this can be accomplished, for example, by using the body of the applicator cap 102 as a bulb vacuum pump as described above to create a partial vacuum.

In FIG. 3C, the user squeezes the body of the applicator cap 102 (see e.g., body 110 in FIGS. 1A and IB) to dislodge the contact lens 150 from the second end of the applicator cap 102 (see e.g., second end 106 in FIGS. 1A and IB). The squeezing action breaks the seal formed against the convex surface of the contact lens 150, for example, by displacing a volume of gas housed within the inner lumen (see e.g., inner lumen 112 in FIGS. IB and 2). Such a seal against the convex surface of the contact lens 150 is due to surface tension, partial vacuum with in the inner lumen, or combinations thereof. The user is then able to apply the contact lens 150 to the wearer's eye. It should be understood the surface area of concave applicator surface 152 of the applicator cap 102 should be configured such that it is less than the surface area between the wearer's eye and the contact lens. In this manner, the contact between the contact lens 150 and the wearer's eye also creates an adhesive force pulling the contact lens 150 from the applicator cap 102. Additionally, the steps shown in FIGS. 3A-3B can be accomplished without the wearer touching the contact lens 150.

In one aspect, an example method of packaging a contact lens is also described. It should be understood that the contact lens can be packaged in a contact lens package shown in FIGS. 1A, IB, and 2. The method includes providing packaging solution in a container (see e.g., container 104 in FIGS. 1A, IB, and 2); and placing a contact lens in a convex-side-up (or concave- side-down) orientation in the container. The method also includes providing an applicator cap (see e.g., applicator cap 102 in FIGS. 1A, IB, and 2). The method further includes inserting the second end (see e.g., second end 106 in FIGS. 1A and IB) into the container such that the concave surface of the second end is adjacent to a convex surface of the contact lens. In another aspect, the method optionally further includes manipulating the handle portion to form a seal against the convex surface of the contact lens. This can be accomplished, for example, by using the body of the applicator cap (see e.g., body 110 in FIGS. 1A and IB) as a bulb vacuum pump as described above. Alternatively, this can be accomplished by contacting the second end of the applicator cap to the convex surface of the contact lens. In another aspect, the method optionally further includes applying a packaging label (see e.g., packaging label 120 in FIG. 1A) to secure the container and the applicator cap.

In any of the above described embodiments, it is anticipated the wearer is the user, but the above described embodiments also describe the situation in which the wearer is not the same person as the user, for example, in a medical or caretaker setting in which a caregiver applies a contact lens to the eye of a patient.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that many of the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for the purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention as contemplated by the inventors, and thus, are not intended to limit the present invention and the appended claims in any way.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

The packages of the present invention may be manufactured using known materials and processes. The packaging materials may be virgin, recycled or a combination thereof. The volume within the package cavity can vary depending on the design selected.

Aspects of exemplary embodiments of the invention are further described in accordance with the following clauses:

1. A contact lens package comprising: an applicator cap comprising a handle portion having a first end, a second end, and a body that extends between the first end and the second end, the body defining an inner lumen, the first end comprising a lumen seal, and the second end defining a concave surface extending circumferentially about the inner lumen; and a container having a reservoir configured to house a contact lens and packaging solution, wherein the second end is configured to form a seal against a convex surface of the contact lens, wherein the applicator cap is configured to dislodge the contact lens from the second end in response to a change in pressure within the lumen deformation of the body, and wherein the container portion is sealedly couplable to the applicator cap.

2. The contact lens package of clause 1, wherein the concave surface of the second end is configured to form the seal against the convex surface of the contact lens.

3. The contact lens package of clause 1 or 2, wherein the seal is due to surface tension between the contact lens and the concave surface of the second end.

4. The contact lens package of clause 1 or 2, wherein the seal is due to a partial vacuum within the inner lumen.

5. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-4, wherein the inner lumen extends from the lumen seal and through the concave surface of the second end, the concave surface of the second end being arranged concentrically around the inner lumen.

6. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-5, wherein the applicator cap houses a volume of gas within the inner lumen. 7. The contact lens package of clause 6, wherein a pressure of the volume of gas within the inner lumen is less than a pressure within the reservoir.

8. The contact lens package of clause 6, wherein a pressure of the volume of gas within the inner lumen is substantially equal to a pressure within the reservoir.

9. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-8, wherein the reservoir is arranged between the applicator cap and the container.

10. The contact lens package of clause 9, wherein the applicator cap and the container collectively surround the reservoir.

11. The contact lens package of clause 9 or 10, wherein the applicator cap and the container collectively define the reservoir.

12. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-11, wherein the applicator cap comprises a first seal surface, and the container comprises a second seal surface that corresponds to the first seal surface, the first and second seal surfaces are configured to hermetically seal the applicator cap and the container. 13. The contact lens package of clause 12, wherein the first seal surface abuts the second seal surface when the contact lens package is in an unopened state.

14. The contact lens package of clause 12, wherein the first and second seal surfaces comprise corresponding threads and grooves.

15. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-14, further comprising a packaging label disposed about the applicator cap and the container.

16. The contact lens package of clause 15, wherein the packaging label is configured to secure the applicator cap and the container together.

17. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-16, wherein the container comprises a support mechanism disposed within the reservoir.

18. The contact lens package of clause 17, wherein the support mechanism is domeshaped.

19. The contact lens package of clause 17 or 18, wherein the support mechanism defines a support surface that is configured to support the contact lens within the reservoir. 20. The contact lens package of clause 19, wherein the support surface is configured to engage a concave surface of the contact lens.

21. The contact lens package of clause 19 or 20, wherein the support surface is a convex surface.

22. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-21, wherein the applicator cap and the container are made of a uniform material.

23. The contact lens package of any one of clauses 1-21, wherein at least one of the applicator cap and the container comprise a plastic.

24. A method of applying a contact lens to a wearer's eye, the contact lens being stored in a contact lens package comprising an applicator cap comprising a handle portion having a first end, a second end, and a body that extends between the first end and the second end, the body defining an inner lumen, the first end comprising a lumen seal, and the second end defining a concave surface extending circumferentially about the inner lumen; and a container having a reservoir configured to house a contact lens and packaging solution, wherein the second end is configured to form a seal against a convex surface of the contact lens, wherein the applicator cap is configured to dislodge the contact lens from the second end in response to deformation of the body, and wherein the container is sealedly couplable to the applicator cap, the method comprising: twisting the handle portion of the applicator cap relative to the container, wherein said twisting uncouples the applicator cap and the container; presenting, using the handle portion, the contact lens in proximity to the wearer's eye in an insertion orientation; squeezing the body to dislodge the contact lens from the second end; and applying the contact lens to the wearer's eye.

25. The method of clause 24, wherein said squeezing breaks the seal formed against the convex surface of the contact lens.

26. The method of clause 24 or 25, wherein said squeezing displaces a volume of gas housed within the inner lumen.

27. The method of any one of clauses 24-26, wherein applying the contact lens to the wearer's eye is performed without the wearer touching the contact lens.

28. A method of packaging a contact lens comprising: providing packaging solution in a container; placing a contact lens in a convex-side-up orientation in the container; and providing an applicator cap comprising a handle portion having a first end, a second end, and a body that extends between the first end and the second end, the body defining an inner lumen, the first end comprising a lumen seal, and the second end defining a concave surface extending circumferentially about the inner lumen; and inserting the second end into the container such that the concave surface of the second end is adjacent to a convex surface of the contact lens.

29. The method of clause 28, further comprising manipulating the handle portion to form a seal against the convex surface of the contact lens.

30. The method of clause 28 or 29, further comprising applying a packaging label to secure the container and the applicator cap.

Not all the features described herein need to be incorporated into every package, and those of skill in the art, using the teachings herein, can combine the features to provide a wide variety of improved contact lens packages. In summary, the contact lens packages of the present invention incorporate several novel functionalities which may be combined in a wide variety of combinations as described herein to provide the desired improved and/or single touch packaging. The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.