An intraocular lens (IOL) has been provided with an accommodation assembly that
effects axial movement of the IOL optic through both the radial action of ciliary
muscles and the axial forces resulting from vitreous pressure on the posterior
wall of the capsular bag. In a preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises an
IOL having substantially rigid, posteriorly extending fixation members which extend
through slots in an accommodation ring encircling the optic. Axial forces exerted
by vitreous fluids on the posterior wall of the capsular bag are transmitted from
the posterior wall to the ring to the fixation members at the slot areas, causing
axial movement of the IOL. At the same time, the angulation of the haptics converts
radial forces due to contraction or expansion of the capsular bag into axial forces,
causing still more axial movement of the IOL.