Integrated contact lens case and replacement time

Abstract

An integrated contact lens case and an electronic timer which may be set to a predetermined time such as seven, fourteen or thirty days as the period during which the user may use contact lenses before replacing them. The timer generates an electrical signal upon reaching the predetermined time which signal is applied to an indicator carried by the housing to provide a visual signal to the user that the time for replacing the contact lens has arrived. The contact lens case is removably secured through the housing within which the electronic timer apparatus is disposed by a plurality of complimentary protrusions and recesses.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is based upon Provisional Application 60 / 812,516, filed Jun. 8, 2006 and hereby claims benefit of the filing date thereof.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to the replacement of contact lenses and more particularly to the combination of a contact lens carrying case which is integrally formed with a timer adapted to indicate to the user when replacement of the contact lens should be accomplished.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Use of contact lenses is very prevalent among individuals requiring vision correcting lenses. Many of the contact lenses which are utilized are referred to as disposable contacts. Such disposable contact lenses must be replaced on a periodic basis which usually is determined by the type of lens and the prescription which is provided by the physician or optometrist. Many of the disposable contact lenses are approved to be worn without replacement for up to seven days and some for fourte...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]The present invention is a combination of a contact lens case and electronic timer mechanism integrated as a single package. The electronic timer mechanism provides a visual means of indicating to the contact lens wearer that a preselected period of time has expired and the time for replacement of the lens has arrived. As an added feature of the invention, the contact lens case may be removed from the integrated package for travel and ease of maintenance of the contact lenses should such be required.

Problems solved by technology

It has been demonstrated that improper attention and lack of compliance with the schedule for replacement may result in corneal ulcer and other adverse reactions.

For example, the risk of developing ulcerative karatitis is greater with increased consecutive days of extended lens wear before replacement.

It has also been found that acanthamoeba karatitis is an infrequent but serious infection among contact lens wearer and occurs when there is improper extended wear of the contact lens.

It has also been found that it is extremely difficult for individuals who wear contact lenses, particularly of the extended disposable types, to remember the replacement schedule.

Although, these prior art devices function to perform the task desired, they are difficult to use and require in several instances, a positive action by the user to provide the information desired.

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