System and method for analyzing an eye

Abstract

Medical devices and methods of use for examining a patient's eye are disclosed. The medical device can include a digital projector as part of an illumination system. The medical device can include one or more cameras as part of a viewing system to capture reflected light from the eye. The viewing system can include one or more adjustable optical systems. The digital projector can produce a light slit to be projected onto the eye. The light slit and the viewing system can be focused at multiple depths of focus within the eye.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 547,628, filed November 7, 2023, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYZINGTHE EYE”, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to one or more imaging systems, including an illumination system and a detection system. Background Technology

[0004] Ophthalmologists use a variety of devices, including slit lamps, ophthalmoscopy, fundus cameras, and scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), to image a patient's eye. A slit lamp is a versatile instrument used by ophthalmologists to examine a patient's eye. It consists of a microscope, an illumination source, and a mechanical support system to allow the illumination source to be positioned at various angles relative to the eye. Ophthalmologists and optometrists typically examine the eye by first performing a horizontal scan across the eye using various slit beam thicknesses and orientations to examine the most anterior structures, such as the cornea and conjunctiva. Then, the examiner adjusts the focal plane backward to perform a horizontal scan across the anterior chamber of the eye. Next, the focus is adjusted further backward to perform a horizontal scan across the iris and anterior lens. This process is repeated again to examine the posterior aspect of the lens and the anterior vitreous body.

[0005] Figure 1 and Figure 1A A diagram of the patient's eye is shown. (For example...) Figure 1 and Figure 1A As shown, the basic components of the eye 10 include the cornea 12, conjunctiva 14, iris 16, pupil 18, lens 20, and retina 22. An anterior chamber 24 is located posterior to the cornea 12. A posterior chamber 40 is located posterior to the anterior chamber 24. The posterior chamber 40 includes the lens 20, positioned by the suspensory ligaments 34 of the eye. An anterior capsule 31 liner the anterior portion of the lens 20, while a posterior capsule 30 liner the posterior portion of the lens 20. The posterior capsule 30 and the suspensory ligaments 34 form the anterior boundary of the vitreous cavity 32. Light enters the anterior portion of the eye through the cornea 12, passes through the pupillary aperture 18, and then through the lens 20. The curvature of the cornea and lens reverses and focuses the light, projecting it onto the retina 22 at the posterior portion of the eye. The iris 16 acts as an “aperture,” opening and closing to regulate the amount of light entering the eye. The cornea, iris, pupil, and lens are commonly referred to as the anterior segment of the eye. The retina 22 is a multi-layered structure that converts received light into neural signals through a process called "signal transduction." Photoreceptors on the retina are called rod cells and cone cells. These generated neural signals are transmitted to the brain by the ganglion cells that form the optic nerve 24. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source; and an observation system including a plurality of imaging devices, each configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye, and at least one observation system support arm supporting the imaging system. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The at least one observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and may also be rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The medical device may further include: a storage device operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of imaging devices to receive and store a plurality of images of the eye imaged by the at least one of the plurality of imaging devices; and a controller operatively coupled to the storage device and configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the patient's eye.

[0007] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye is provided. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system; an observation system; and a controller. The illumination system may include at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye. The illumination system may also include an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system may include a first adjustable optical assembly. The observation system may include a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye. The observation system may also include an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system may include a second adjustable optical assembly having an optical axis. The observation system can image at least one plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the second adjustable optical assembly. The controller may be operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system. The controller can be configured to adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support. The controller can also be configured to adjust the rotational position of the illumination system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

[0008] In one example, the movable base can remain stationary relative to the patient support.

[0009] In another example, the controller can be configured to adjust both the first adjustable optics of the illumination system and the second adjustable optics of the observation system to a first focal depth among a plurality of focal depths relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support; and to adjust both the first adjustable optics of the illumination system and the second adjustable optics of the observation system to a second focal depth among a plurality of focal depths relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth among a plurality of focal depths.

[0010] In another example, the controller may sequentially focus both the first adjustable optics of the lighting system and the second adjustable optics of the observation system at a corresponding depth of focus for each of a set of positions for focusing the first adjustable optics of the lighting system and the second adjustable optics of the observation system. In another variation, the lighting system projects a test pattern focused by the first adjustable optics of the lighting system. In yet another variation, the lighting system includes a digital projector for displaying the test pattern. In still another variation, the test pattern may include a vertical slit focused at a first depth of focus for a first subset of the set of positions, the first subset including a first plurality of positions, and the controller is configured to project a series of images using the digital projector, each corresponding image in the series having a vertical slit positioned at the first depth of focus to a corresponding position of the first plurality of positions. In another variation, the first plurality of positions includes a first position having a first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, and a first image in a series of images includes a vertical slit positioned to be projected onto the first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, and wherein the first plurality of positions includes a second position having a second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, the second lateral position being offset from the first lateral position, and a second image in a series of images includes a vertical slit positioned to be projected onto the second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system.

[0011] In another example, the test pattern has a first color value in the first image and a second color value in the second image, the second color value being different from the first color value. In yet another example, the test pattern also includes one or more of the following: indicators on the nasal and temple sides of the projected image; the patient's name; and a timestamp.

[0012] In yet another example, the test pattern also included a watermark.

[0013] In yet another example, the test pattern includes a vertical slit. In a variation, the vertical slit is focused at a first depth of focus within a plurality of depths of focus for a first subset of the set of positions, the first subset including a first plurality of positions. In another variation, the first plurality of positions includes a first position having a first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, and a second position having a second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, the second lateral position being offset from the first lateral position. In yet another variation, the illumination system is focused at a first depth of focus and a first lateral position offset from the optical axis of the illumination system for the first position in the set of positions, and at a second depth of focus and a second lateral position offset from the optical axis of the illumination system for the second position in the set of positions, the second depth of focus being offset from the first depth of focus, and the second lateral position being offset from the first lateral position. In yet another variation, the illumination system is focused at a second depth of focus and a third lateral position offset from the optical axis of the illumination system for a third position in the set of positions, the third lateral position being offset from the second lateral position. In another variation, the observation system is focused along the optical axis of the observation system at a first focal depth for a first position in the set of positions, and at a second focal depth for a second position and a third position in the set of positions.

[0014] In yet another example, the test pattern includes multiple cracks, the multiple cracks including a first crack and a second crack spaced apart from the first crack.

[0015] In another example, the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

[0016] In another example, the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a second tunable lens.

[0017] In yet another example, at least one source generates one of the halo and a partial halo, and wherein the controller is also configured to align one of the halo and the partial halo toward the limbus of the patient's eye.

[0018] In yet another example, the controller is also configured to determine eye movement during the examination. In a variation, the controller determines eye movement during the examination based on images captured by the observation system. In yet another variation, the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0019] In another example, the controller is also configured to determine eye blinks during the inspection.

[0020] In another example, the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture a first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project the first image from the digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including the first vertical slit; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture a second image of the first vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera of the observation system. In a variant thereof, when the controller performs (a) through (f), each of the movable base, illumination arm, and observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

[0021] In another example, the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical component of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture a first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from a digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a second vertical slit offset from the first vertical slit in the first image; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical component of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture a second image of the second vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera of the observation system. In a variant thereof, when the controller performs (a) through (f), each of the movable base, illumination arm, and observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system; an observation system; and a controller. The illumination system may include at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye. The illumination system may also include an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system may include a first adjustable optical assembly. The observation system may include a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye. The observation system may also include an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system includes a second adjustable optical assembly. At least one of the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical assembly of the observation system may include a tunable lens. The controller may be operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical assembly of the observation system. The controller can be configured to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support, and to adjust the rotational position of the illumination system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

[0023] In one example, the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

[0024] In another example, the second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

[0025] In another example, the controller is also configured to determine eye movement during the examination. In a variant, the controller determines eye movement during the examination based on images captured by the observation system. In yet another variant, the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0026] In yet another example, the controller is also configured to determine blinking of the eyes during the inspection.

[0027] In another example, the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture a first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project the first image from the digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including the first vertical slit; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture a second image of the first vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera of the observation system. In a variant thereof, when the controller performs (a) through (f), each of the movable base, illumination arm, and observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

[0028] In another example, the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical component of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture a first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from a digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a second vertical slit offset from the first vertical slit in the first image; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical component of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture a second image of the second vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera of the observation system. In a variant thereof, when the controller performs (a) through (f), each of the movable base, illumination arm, and observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

[0029] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system; an observation system; a storage device; and a controller. The illumination system may include at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye. The illumination system may also include an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The observation system may include a plurality of imaging devices, each configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye. The observation system may also include at least one observation system support arm supporting the plurality of imaging devices. The at least one observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The storage device may be operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of imaging devices to receive and store a plurality of images of the eye imaged by the at least one of the plurality of imaging devices. The controller may be operatively coupled to the storage device and configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the patient's eye.

[0030] In one example, the plurality of camera devices include: a first camera device and a first optical component, the first optical component having a first input optical axis and being positioned to provide a first image to the first camera device; and a second camera device and a second optical component, the second optical component having a second input optical axis and being positioned to provide a second image to the second camera device.

[0031] In another example, the plurality of imaging devices includes: a first imaging device and a first optical component, the first optical component having a first input optical axis and positioned to provide a first image to the first imaging device; a second imaging device and a second optical component, the second optical component having a second input optical axis and positioned to provide a second image to the second imaging device; and a third imaging device and a third optical component, the third optical component having a third input optical axis and positioned to provide a third image to the third imaging device, the second and third imaging devices forming a stereo pair. In a variation, each of the first and second optical components is positioned to receive imaging rays generated by reflection of light from a patient's eye. In another variation, the second input optical axis intersects the first input optical axis at a location within the focal range of the first and second optical components. In another variation, the first and second input optical axes are vertically aligned. In yet another variation, the illumination system is configured to provide a test pattern to illuminate a portion of the patient's eye. A first image of a first optical component captured by a first camera device includes a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern, and a second image of a second optical component captured by a second camera device includes a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern. A controller is configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the eye based on the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern. In yet another variation, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is aligned relative to the patient's eye when the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a first characteristic on the reflected test pattern. In yet another variation, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the eye because it is too close to the patient's eye. In yet another variation, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the eye because it is too far away from the patient's eye when the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a third characteristic on the reflected test pattern. In yet another variation, the test pattern is a line. In yet another variation, the first characteristic corresponds to the alignment of lines in the first portion of the reflected test pattern with lines in the second portion of the reflected test pattern. In yet another variation, the second characteristic corresponds to the misalignment of lines in the first portion of the reflected test pattern with lines in the second portion of the reflected test pattern. In yet another variation, for each of the first, second, and third characteristics, lines in the first portion of the reflected test pattern with lines in the second portion of the reflected test pattern are in a non-overlapping relationship.

[0032] In another example, the controller is configured to move the movable base relative to the patient support when the observation system is not aligned with the patient's eye.

[0033] In yet another example, the medical device also includes a display operatively coupled to the controller to display a first image of a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second image of a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0034] In yet another example, the lighting system includes a digital projector that generates test patterns.

[0035] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a method for aligning an imaging system to a patient's eye is provided. The method may include the steps of: projecting a test pattern onto the patient's eye using an illumination system; receiving a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a first direction using a first camera device; receiving a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a second direction using a second camera device, wherein a first axis of the first direction and a second axis of the second direction intersect at an intersection point; and moving the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye until the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic.

[0036] In one example, the method also includes the step of displaying a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern on a display.

[0037] In another example, the method further includes the step of supporting an illumination system, a first camera device, and a second camera device on a movable base, such that the illumination system, the first camera device, and the second camera device move as a whole relative to the patient's eye.

[0038] In yet another example, the test pattern includes an elongated feature having a longitudinal axis in a third direction. The third direction may be perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second directions and passing through the intersection of the first and second axes. In a variation, a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern includes a first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern, and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern includes a second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern. In another variation, a first feature corresponds to the alignment of the first and second portions of the elongated feature of the test pattern along a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction and in the plane. In yet another variation, the alignment of the first and second portions of the elongated feature of the test pattern along a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction and in the plane indicates that the first and second imaging devices are aligned with the surface of the patient's cornea. In yet another variation, the first and second portions of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset along the fourth direction with a second feature, indicating that at least one of the first and second imaging devices is not aligned with the patient's eye.

[0039] In another example, the step of moving the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye until a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic includes: receiving manual input to a support of at least one of the first and second camera devices to reposition at least one of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye.

[0040] In another example, the step of moving the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye until the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic includes: actuating the positioning system of the first and second camera devices using a movement command from the controller based on the fact that the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern have characteristics different from the first characteristic.

[0041] In another example, the step of projecting a test pattern onto a patient's eyes using an illumination system includes programming a digital projector to display the test pattern.

[0042] In yet another example, the test pattern is a horizontal line.

[0043] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: an illumination system configured to project a test pattern onto the patient's eye; a first camera device positioned to capture a first image of a first portion of a reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a first direction; a second camera device positioned to capture a second image of a second portion of a reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a second direction; and a display configured to simultaneously display at least a first portion of the test pattern based on the first image and a second portion of the test pattern based on the second image to provide an indication of the alignment state of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye.

[0044] In one example, if the first part of the test pattern is aligned with the second part of the test pattern on the display, then the alignment of the first and second camera devices with respect to the patient's eyes is also aligned.

[0045] In another example, if the first portion of the test pattern on the display is offset relative to the second portion of the test pattern, then the alignment of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eyes is misaligned.

[0046] In another example, the test pattern includes an elongated feature having a vertical axis in a third direction. In a variation, the third direction is perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions. In another variation, a first portion of the test pattern based on a first image includes a first portion of the elongated feature, and a second portion of the test pattern based on a second image includes a second portion of the elongated feature. In yet another variation, when the first and second imaging devices are aligned relative to the patient's eye, the first and second portions of the elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along a third direction. In yet another variation, when the first and second imaging devices are misaligned relative to the patient's eye, the first and second portions of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset in a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction. In another variation, when the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern shifts to the first side of the first portion of the elongated feature, the first and second camera devices are too close to the patient's eyes, and when the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern shifts to the second side of the first portion of the elongated feature, the first and second camera devices are too far apart from the patient's eyes, with the second side opposite the first side.

[0047] In another example, the medical device also includes a movable base supporting the lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device.

[0048] In another example, the lighting system includes a digital projector programmed to display a test pattern projected by the optical system of the lighting system.

[0049] In yet another example, the test pattern is a horizontal line.

[0050] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source; and an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system may include a first adjustable optical assembly. The observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system may include a second adjustable optical assembly. The medical device may also include a controller. The controller may be operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system. The controller can be configured to adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support.

[0051] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system including a digital projector that generates at least one image to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting at least one source; and an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system may include a first adjustable optical assembly. The observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system may include a second adjustable optical assembly. The medical device may also include a controller. The controller may be operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system. The controller can be configured to adjust a first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optics system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support. A first subset of the multiple depths of focus may be part of a first profile, and a second subset of the multiple depths of focus may be part of a second profile. The second profile is offset relative to the first profile. The digital projector can generate a first image with a first vertical slit for the first depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the first depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus. The digital projector can generate a second image with a second vertical slit for the second depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the second depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus, the second vertical slit being offset relative to the position of the first vertical slit in the first image.

[0052] In its example, the first contour has a first shape, and the second contour has a second shape, which is different from the first shape. In its variation, the second shape is flatter than the first shape.

[0053] In another example, the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

[0054] In another example, the second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

[0055] In another example, the controller is also configured to determine eye movement during the examination. In a variant, the controller determines eye movement during the examination based on images captured by the observation system. In yet another variant, the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0056] In yet another example, the controller is also configured to determine blinking of the eyes during the inspection.

[0057] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source; and an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system may include a first adjustable optical assembly. The observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system may include a second adjustable optical assembly. The medical device may also include a controller. The controller may be operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system. The controller can be configured to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support; and to adjust the rotational position of the illumination system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

[0058] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source; and an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The illumination system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The at least one source may generate one of a halo and a partial halo. The observation system support arm may be supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm.

[0059] In one example, the medical device may also include a controller operatively coupled to at least one source. The controller may be configured to align one of the halo and a portion of the halo to the limbus.

[0060] In another example, the lighting system includes a first adjustable optical component.

[0061] In another example, the observation system includes a second adjustable optical component.

[0062] In another example, at least one source is a digital projector.

[0063] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device may include: an illumination system comprising a digital projector that generates at least one image to illuminate the eye and a first adjustable optics component that projects the at least one image toward the eye; and an observation system comprising: a second adjustable optics component positioned to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the eye as the illumination system projects the at least one image toward the patient's eye; and a first camera device configured to receive the imaging light from the second adjustable optics component. The illumination system and the observation system may be positioned in a first spatial configuration, wherein the optical axes of the first adjustable optics component and the second optics component intersect at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye. The medical device may also include a controller operatively coupled to the illumination system and the observation system. The controller may be configured to adjust the first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optics component of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the eye when the illumination system and the observation system are in the first spatial configuration.

[0064] In one example, at least one image includes a test pattern. In a variation, the test pattern includes a vertical slit, and in a first image of at least one image, the vertical slit is in a first lateral position, and in a second image of at least one image, the vertical slit is in a second lateral position, the second lateral position in the second image being spaced apart from the first lateral position in the first image. In another variation, when the first image of at least one image is generated by a digital projector, a controller focuses a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system at a first depth of focus of a plurality of depths of focus to focus the vertical slit in the first lateral position on the cornea at a first position offset from the vertex of the cornea, and when the second image of at least one image is generated by a digital projector, the controller focuses the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system at a second depth of focus of a plurality of depths of focus to focus the vertical slit in the second lateral position on the cornea at a second position offset from the vertex of the cornea, the second position on the cornea being offset from the first position on the cornea. In another variation, when the first image in at least one image is generated by a digital projector, the controller also observes the system's second adjustable optical component focusing on a first depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus to focus a vertical slit in a first lateral position on the cornea at a first position off the vertex of the cornea, and when the second image in at least one image is generated by a digital projector, the controller also observes the system's second adjustable optical component focusing on a second depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus to focus a vertical slit in a second lateral position on the cornea at a second position off the vertex of the cornea. In yet another example, the controller is configured to adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the apex of the cornea when the illumination system and the observation system are in a first spatial configuration, wherein a first subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a first contour, and a second subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a second contour, the second contour being offset relative to the first contour, and wherein a digital projector generates a first image with a vertical slit in a first lateral position for the first depths of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus of the first contour and the first depths of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus of the second contour, and a second image with a vertical slit in a second lateral position for the second depths of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the second depths of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus. In yet another variation, the first contour has a first shape, and the second contour has a second shape, the second shape being different from the first shape. In yet another variation, the second shape is flatter than the first shape.

[0065] In another example, the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

[0066] In another example, the second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

[0067] In yet another example, the test pattern has a first color value in a first image and a second color value in a second image, the second color value being different from the first color value.

[0068] In yet another example, the test pattern also includes one or more of the following: indicators on the nasal and temple sides of the projected image, the patient's name, and a timestamp.

[0069] In yet another example, the test pattern also included a watermark.

[0070] In another example, the test pattern includes multiple cracks, the multiple cracks including a first crack and a second crack spaced apart from the first crack.

[0071] In yet another example, the controller is also configured to determine eye movement during the examination. In a variant, the controller determines eye movement during the examination based on images captured by the observation system. In yet another variant, the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0072] In another example, the controller is also configured to determine eye blinks during the inspection.

[0073] In another example, the medical device also includes a base. An illumination system is coupled to the base, and an observation system is coupled to the base. In a variation, the illumination system is movable relative to the base. In another variation, the illumination system is movable relative to the observation system. In yet another variation, the illumination system is rotatable relative to the base about a first rotation axis. In still another variation, the illumination system includes an illumination system support arm supporting at least one source. In yet another variation, the observation system is rotatable relative to the base about a first rotation axis. In yet another variation, the observation system includes an observation system support arm supporting a first imaging device.

[0074] In another example, the medical device may also include a patient support adapted for positioning a patient's eye. The base may be a movable base capable of moving relative to the patient support. The lighting system may also include a lighting system support arm supporting at least one source. The lighting system support arm may be supported by a movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The observation system may also include an observation system support arm supporting a first imaging device. The observation system support arm may be supported by a movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and also rotatable relative to the lighting system support arm.

[0075] In another example, the medical device may also include a patient support adapted for positioning the patient's eye, wherein the base is a movable base capable of moving relative to the patient support.

[0076] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a method for examining a patient's eye is provided. The method may include the steps of: positioning an illumination system and an observation system in a first spatial configuration relative to the eye, the first spatial configuration having the optical axes of a first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and a second optics component of the observation system intersecting at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; and while maintaining the illumination system and observation system in the first spatial configuration, performing the steps of: (a) projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optics component, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position; and (b) projecting the image through the second adjustable optics component using a first camera... The imaging device receives light reflected from the eye in projection step (a), wherein a second adjustable optical component is focused at a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; (c) a first image from a digital projector is projected toward the eye towards the eye at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optical component, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position; and (d) light reflected from the eye in projection step (c) is received by the first imaging device via the second adjustable optical component, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye.

[0077] In another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a method for examining a patient's eye is provided. The method may include the steps of: positioning an illumination system and an observation system in a first spatial configuration relative to the eye, the first spatial configuration having the optical axes of a first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and a second optics component of the observation system intersecting at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; and while maintaining the illumination system and observation system in the first spatial configuration, performing the steps of: (a) projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a first depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optics component, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position; and (b) receiving an image from a digital projector via the second adjustable optics component using a first imaging device. The projection step (a) involves projecting light reflected from the eye, wherein a second adjustable optical component is focused at a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; (c) projecting a second image from a digital projector toward the eye at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optical component, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth, the second image including a vertical slit in a second lateral position offset from the first lateral position; and (d) receiving light reflected from the eye in the projection step (c) using a first camera device via the second adjustable optical component, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye.

[0078] While several embodiments have been disclosed, other embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which illustrates and describes illustrative embodiments. Therefore, the drawings and detailed description are to be considered illustrative rather than limiting in nature. Other aspects, as well as alternative and / or preferred embodiments, will become apparent from the following description provided with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0079] The above and other features and advantages of this disclosure, as well as the ways of implementing these features and advantages, will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the following description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0080] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the basic components of the human eye is shown;

[0081] Figure 1A It shows Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion;

[0082] Figure 2 An exemplary inspection system of this disclosure is shown, wherein the optical axis of the illumination system is at an angle relative to the optical axis of the observation system;

[0083] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 The inspection system, in which the optical axis of the illumination system is usually aligned with the optical axis of the observation system;

[0084] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 A side view of an exemplary implementation of an inspection system;

[0085] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A top view of the inspection system;

[0086] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 An exemplary lighting system;

[0087] Figure 7 It shows a first camera device and a second camera device. Figure 2 Exemplary observation system;

[0088] Figure 7A The diagram shows a first camera device, a second camera device, and a third camera device. Figure 2 Another exemplary observation system;

[0089] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 Representation of the imaging axes of the first and second camera devices;

[0090] Figure 9A shows the result of Figure 6 An exemplary image projected by a projector in an implementation of an inspection system;

[0091] Figure 9B shows an image of Figure 9A projected onto the examined eye;

[0092] Figure 10 Exemplary methods or processing sequences of this disclosure are shown;

[0093] Figure 11A The image of Figure 9A, as shown in Figure 9B, is projected onto the examined eye. Figure 7 The image from the first camera device;

[0094] Figure 11B The image of Figure 9A, as shown in Figure 9B, is projected onto the examined eye. Figure 7 The image from the second camera device;

[0095] Figure 12 It shows when Figure 7 The first camera device and Figure 7 When the optical axis of the second camera intersects in front of the corneal surface of the eye being examined, Figure 11A The first part of the image and Figure 11BThe second part of the image;

[0096] Figure 13 It shows when Figure 7 The first camera device and Figure 7 When the optical axis of the second camera intersects behind the corneal surface of the eye being examined, Figure 11A The first part of the image and Figure 11B The second part of the image;

[0097] Figure 14 It shows when Figure 7 The first camera device and Figure 7 When the optical axis of the second camera intersects at the corneal surface of the eye being examined, Figure 11A The first part of the image and Figure 11B The second part of the image;

[0098] Figure 15 An exemplary processing sequence of the present disclosure is shown;

[0099] Figure 16A shows the result of Figure 6 An exemplary image of the first location of a single vertical crack projected by a projector in an implementation of the inspection system;

[0100] Figure 16B shows the projection onto the examined eye and... Figure 7 The image of Figure 16A captured by the camera device;

[0101] Figure 17A shows the result of Figure 6 An exemplary image of the second position of a single vertical crack projected by a projector in an implementation of the inspection system;

[0102] Figure 17B shows the projection onto the examined eye and... Figure 7 The image of Figure 17A captured by the camera device;

[0103] Figure 18A shows the result of Figure 6 An exemplary image of the third position of a single vertical crack projected by a projector in an implementation of the inspection system.

[0104] Figure 18B shows the projection onto the examined eye and... Figure 7 The image of Figure 18A captured by the camera device;

[0105] Figure 19A shows the result of Figure 6 An exemplary image of the first position of the double vertical cracks is projected by a projector in an implementation of the inspection system.

[0106] Figure 19B shows the projection onto the examined eye and... Figure 7 The image of Figure 19A formed by the camera device;

[0107] Figure 20A shows the result of Figure 6 An exemplary image of the first location of a single vertical crack and additional markings projected by a projector in an implementation of the inspection system;

[0108] Figure 20B shows the projection onto the examined eye and... Figure 7 The image of Figure 20A captured by the camera device;

[0109] Figure 21 and Figure 22 The depth of focus of the illumination and observation systems is shown for various locations of the vertical crack.

[0110] Figure 22A The depth of focus is shown for several exemplary contours;

[0111] Figure 23 and Figure 24 Several exemplary contours for eye examination are shown;

[0112] Figure 25 Several exemplary test locations for multiple contours used in eye examinations are shown;

[0113] Figure 26 Multiple locations of the vertical slits to be projected by an exemplary lighting system during an eye examination are shown;

[0114] Figure 27 The relative positioning of multiple test locations on the contour is shown;

[0115] Figure 28 The ray equations and eye scan profiles corresponding to the projection direction of the vertical slit in the exemplary lighting system are shown;

[0116] Figure 29 Exemplary curvature values ​​for multiple contours are shown;

[0117] Figure 30 It shows the determination corresponding to Figure 28 Numerical solution of the lateral coordinates of the intersection point of the ray equation and the eye scan profile;

[0118] Figure 31 and Figure 32 An exemplary method for limbal detection is shown;

[0119] Figures 33A to 33B An exemplary eye movement detection method is shown;

[0120] Figure 34 This is a front perspective view of an exemplary inspection system;

[0121] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 A side view of an exemplary inspection system;

[0122] Figure 36 yes Figure 34 A rear perspective view of an exemplary inspection system;

[0123] Figure 37 yes Figure 34 A top view of an exemplary inspection system, in which the lighting system and the observation system are at different angular positions;

[0124] Figure 38 yes Figure 34 A second top view of an exemplary inspection system, wherein the lighting system and the observation system are at the same angular position;

[0125] Figure 39 yes Figure 34 A third top view of an exemplary inspection system, wherein the lighting system and the observation system are in different angular positions;

[0126] Figure 40 yes Figure 34 Exemplary inspection system along Figure 37 A cross-sectional view of line 40-40 in the diagram;

[0127] Figure 41 yes Figure 34 A portion of an exemplary examination system and a detailed view of the patient's eyes; and

[0128] Figure 42 This shows the installation system of the lighting system. Figure 34 A perspective view of an exemplary inspection system.

[0129] In several views, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts.

[0130] While this disclosure can be modified and substituted in various ways, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and are described in detail below. However, it is not intended to limit this disclosure to the specific embodiments described. Detailed Implementation

[0131] Before detailing any implementation of this disclosure, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the following figures. This disclosure can have other implementations and can be practiced or performed in various ways. The term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of such entities. Therefore, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are used interchangeably.

[0132] The terms “about,” “basically,” “approximately,” and other approximate terms include the value plus / minus 10 percent of the value. For example, “about 10 centimeters” should be interpreted as 9 to 11 centimeters.

[0133] As used herein, the term "logic" or "control logic" can include software and / or firmware executing on one or more programmable processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), hardwired logic, or combinations thereof. Therefore, various logics can be implemented in any suitable manner, depending on the implementation, and will remain consistent with the implementations disclosed herein.

[0134] The terms “coupled,” “coupled,” “coupler,” and variations thereof are used to include two arrangements: an arrangement in which two or more components are in direct physical contact, and an arrangement in which two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., these components are “coupled” via at least a third component), but still cooperate or interact with each other.

[0135] Throughout this disclosure and the claims, numerical terms such as first, second, third, and fourth are used to refer to various components or features. Such use is not intended to indicate an order of components or features. Rather, numerical terms are used to help the reader identify the components or features mentioned and should not be interpreted narrowly as providing a specific order of components or features.

[0136] Reference Figure 2 An inspection system 100 is shown. The inspection system 100 includes an illumination system 102 and an observation system 104. The illumination system 102 illuminates the eye 10 generally along the optical axis 108 in direction 106. The observation system 104 receives reflected light from the eye 10 generally along the optical axis 112 in direction 110. The reflected light includes diffuse reflection and may include specular reflection. Unless otherwise stated, the terms "reflected," "reflection," "reflects," and related terms are defined as diffuse reflection or backscattering. Figure 2As shown, optical axis 112 is generally aligned with optical axis 28 of eye 10, and optical axis 108 is at an angle 111 relative to optical axis 112. In this embodiment, optical axis 108 and optical axis 112 are generally coplanar. Although illumination system 102 and observation system 104 are shown with observation system 104 positioned directly in front of eye 10 and aligned with axis 28 of eye 10, and illumination system 102 at an angle relative to eye 10, illumination system 102 and observation system 104 can be positioned relative to eye 10 in any relationship. In this embodiment, both illumination system 102 and observation system 104 are at an angle relative to optical axis 28 of eye 10. In this embodiment, illumination system 102 is positioned directly in front of eye 10, with optical axis 108 aligned with optical axis 28 of eye 10, and observation system 104 is positioned such that optical axis 112 is at an angle relative to optical axis 28 of eye 10.

[0137] In one embodiment, the inspection system 100 includes a secondary illumination source (not shown) that illuminates at least a portion of the eye. The secondary illumination source can be any light source that provides a substantially constant light intensity across a bright area of ​​the eye 10, or a portion of the eye 10. In one embodiment, the secondary illumination source may be at a different wavelength from the main light source of the illumination system 102. In one example, the secondary illumination source may be supported by the illumination system 102. In one example, the secondary illumination source 114 is separate from the illumination system 102.

[0138] The observation system 104 includes a plurality of camera devices 130. Each of the plurality of camera devices 130 records an image of the eye 10 being examined. At least one of the plurality of camera devices can record light field data associated with the light reflected from the eye 10. The light field data allows refocusing of the image recorded by at least one camera device.

[0139] Each of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 may be coupled to the controller 300. In one embodiment, the controller 300 includes at least one processor 310 and an associated memory 312 (see [link to implementation]). Figure 4The memory 312 includes inspection logic 320, which monitors the output of the camera device 130 and other inputs and sensors disclosed herein to perform one or more operations using the inspection system 100. As used herein, the term "logic" includes software and / or firmware executing on one or more programmable processors, application-specific integrated circuits, field-programmable gate arrays, digital signal processors, hard-wired logic, or combinations thereof. Therefore, various logics can be implemented in any suitable manner, depending on the implementation, and will remain consistent with the implementations disclosed herein. A non-transitory machine-readable medium including logic can also be considered to be embodied in any tangible form of computer-readable medium, such as solid-state memory, magnetic disks, and optical disks, containing a suitable set of computer instructions and data structures that will cause a processor to perform the techniques described herein. This disclosure contemplates other implementations in which the controller 300 is not microprocessor-based but is configured to control the operation of the inspection system 100 based on one or more sets of hard-wired instructions. Furthermore, the controller 300 may be contained in a single device, or may be multiple devices networked together or otherwise electrically connected to provide the functionality described herein.

[0140] The electronic controller 300 can also be connected via one or more input devices 360 (see...) Figure 4 The electronic controller 300 receives input. Exemplary input devices include operator-actuable input elements such as buttons, switches, levers, joysticks, dial pads, touch displays, and soft keys; sensors; communication modules for connecting to wired or wireless networks; and other suitable input devices. The electronic controller 300 may also provide outputs through one or more output devices 380. Exemplary output devices include visual indicators, audio indicators, communication modules for connecting to wired or wireless networks, and other suitable output devices. Exemplary visual indicators include displays, lights, and other visual systems. Exemplary audio indicators include speakers and other suitable audio systems.

[0141] return Figure 4The controller 300 controls one or more settings of the lighting system 102 and / or the observation system 104, and stores one or more images 350 captured by the plurality of camera devices 130. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the controller 300 utilizes inspection logic 320 to control the operation of one or more of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104. In this embodiment, the positioning of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 relative to the eye 10 is manually operated. In this embodiment, the positioning of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 relative to the eye 10 is controlled by the controller 300 either by manual input (e.g., using input device 360, which causes the controller 300 to reposition actuators to manipulate one or both of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104), or by automatic operation of the inspection logic 320 based on images captured by the camera devices 130, or a combination of both manual and automatic operation.

[0142] Reference Figure 3 The diagram shows an inspection system 100, in which the optical axis 108 is approximately coaxial with the optical axis 112 and with the optical axis 28 of the eye 10. Therefore, the observation system 104 is approximately collinear with the illumination system 102. Although the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 are shown as being positioned directly in front of the eye 10 and aligned with the optical axis 28, the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 may be at an angle relative to the optical axis 28 of the eye 10, for example… Figure 2 The position of the lighting system 102. In addition, the optical axis 108 of the lighting system 102 and the optical axis 112 of the observation system 104 can be parallel to the optical axis 28 of the eye, but offset relative to the optical axis 28 of the eye 10.

[0143] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment of the examination system 100 is shown. The lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 are shown supported by a movable base 140, which is supported on top of a base 142. In this embodiment, the base 142 is a floor, a tabletop, or an intermediate base supported by a floor, tabletop, or other structure in the examination room. A patient support 144 is also supported by the base 142. The patient support 144 positions the patient's eyes 10 relative to the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104.

[0144] Reference Figure 5The movable base 140 is generally movable relative to the base 142 along the x-axis in directions 146 and 148, and also movable relative to the base 142 along the z-axis in directions 150 and 152. The movement of the movable base 140 relative to the base 142 causes movement of both the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104. In this embodiment, one of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 is not supported by the movable base 140, and therefore does not move in sync with the movable base 140 when the movable base 140 moves relative to the base 142.

[0145] In one embodiment, the examination system 100 does not include a base 142, and the patient support 144 is a head-mounted device, similar to goggles. The movable base 140 can be movably mounted to the patient support 144 to move the lighting system 102 and / or the observation system 104 relative to the patient support 144. In another embodiment, the patient is not supported by the patient support 144, and the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 can be positioned relative to the eye 10, for example, by a hinged arm supporting both the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104, or a pair of hinged arms (one supporting the lighting system 102 and the other supporting the observation system 104). The hinged arm can be a robotic arm controlled by a controller 300 to position the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 relative to the patient's eye 10 for examination. This arrangement is particularly advantageous for bedridden patients. In this example, the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 are aligned with the apex of the cornea 12 of the patient's eye 10.

[0146] return Figure 4 In this embodiment, both the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 can be moved relative to the movable base 140 along the y-axis in directions 154 and 156, such as... Figure 4 As shown. In one embodiment, the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 are fixed relative to the movable base 140 on the y-axis, and the patient support 144 is movable relative to the lighting system 102, the observation system 104, and the movable base 140 on the y-axis. In another embodiment, the patient support 144 is supported on a base 142 independently of the movable base 140 and may include a head support movable along the y-axis in directions 154, 156.

[0147] Furthermore, each of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 can rotate relative to the movable base 140 in directions 158 and 160, such as Figure 5 As shown. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 is rotatable about axis 162. Figure 4As shown, shaft 162 can be positioned within the envelope 170 of patient support 144, and specifically behind the leading edge 172 of patient support 144. Illumination system 102 and observation system 104 can rotate independently relative to the movable base 140. Therefore, illumination system 102 can rotate relative to the movable base 140, while observation system 104 does not rotate accordingly relative to the movable base 140, and vice versa.

[0148] Although the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 are shown as rotatable about a vertical axis (axis 162), one or both of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 can rotate about a horizontal axis parallel to the x-axis or another axis in a plane defined by the x-axis and y-axis. In an embodiment, each of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 can rotate about a separate axis relative to the movable base 140.

[0149] return Figure 4 The illumination system 102 is shown as including an optical assembly 202 and a source 200 supported by an illumination system support arm 103. Similarly, a plurality of camera devices 130 and associated optics, such as optics 508, 512, of the observation system 104 are supported by an observation system support arm 105. Returning to the illumination system 102, in an embodiment, the source 200 is a mechanical slit-forming device having an illumination source and an adjustable width aperture that provides generally linear slit light from the illumination source to the optical assembly 202. In an embodiment, the source 200 is a projector. An exemplary projector is a digital light projector (DLP). A digital light projector electronically generates an image projected from multiple light sources, such as pixels of a display screen. As described herein, a digital light projector can be used to simulate a slit for slit-lamp inspection of the eye 10, and the slit can be moved across the eye 10 by changing the projected image. Furthermore, portions of the image projected by the digital light projector can be used to track eye movement. Additionally, a portion of the image projected by the digital light projector can be used to align the eye 10 with the observation system 104.

[0150] Reference Figure 6An exemplary lighting system 400 is shown as an example of lighting system 102. Lighting system 400 includes a projector 402 and an optical assembly 404. In this embodiment, projector 402 is a digital light projector. An exemplary digital light projector is a LightCrafter digital micromirror device (DMD) model DLPDLCR3310EVM, available from Texas Instruments, Inc., located at 12500 TI Avenue, Dallas, Texas (Zip Code 75243). Projector 402 is operatively coupled to controller 300, which controls the image to be displayed by projector 402. In this embodiment, controller 300 is internal to projector 402. In this embodiment, projector 402 communicates with controller 300 via a wired or wireless network connection. As used herein, controller 300 encompasses the functions of projector 402 and other controllable components of camera device 130, lighting system 102, observation system 104, optical assembly 404, optical assembly 508 and / or optical assembly 512, and controller 300 may be a single controller 300 or a collection of separate controllers that perform the functions of controller 300 together. In embodiments, lighting system support arm 103 and / or observation system support arm 105 include corresponding actuator systems 107, 109 (see...). Figure 4 For example, motors and gear sets are controlled by controller 300 to control the angular position of the lighting system support arm 103 and / or the observation system support arm 105 relative to the movable base 140 and / or to each other. Inspection logic 320 of controller 300, in addition to controlling other parameters (such as the depth of focus described herein), controls the position of the lighting system support arm 103 and / or the observation system support arm 105 and the shape of the slit projected onto the eye 10 during inspection. For example, inspection logic 320 of controller 300 can simulate a conventional slit lamp inspection. The position of the lighting system support arm 103 and / or the observation system support arm 105 is recorded by controller 300 and associated with the captured image 350 of observation system 104 for retrieval by controller 300. Additional details of the characteristics, sensors, and systems to be captured by images are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,092,183, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0151] Optical assembly 404 projects the image generated by projector 402 onto eye 10. In this embodiment, optical assembly 404 is adjustable to change its focal plane, and thus focuses the image generated by projector 402 at different depths of eye 10. In this embodiment, the focal length of optical assembly 404 is adjustable due to the inclusion of at least one tunable lens 406 (whose focal length can be changed without altering the overall position of lens 406 relative to other components of optical assembly 404). Exemplary tunable lens 406 includes an electrically tunable lens available from Optotune Switzerland, located at 388 Bern Street, Dieticon, Switzerland (postcode 8953). Electrically tunable lenses can adjust their curvature by applying an electric current to the lens, and thus adjust their focal length. By controlling the current, a controller, such as controller 300, can control the focal length of tunable lens 406, and thus control the focal length of optical assembly 404. In this embodiment, optical assembly 404 includes a plurality of tunable lenses.

[0152] In one embodiment, the focal length of the optical assembly 404 is adjustable because it includes one or more movable lenses whose overall position relative to the other lenses can be changed. In an example, one or more movable lenses are supported by a stage or other movable support, the position of which can be controlled by a controller (e.g., controller 300) to change the focal length of the optical assembly 404. In another embodiment, the optical assembly 404 includes a combination of one or more movable lenses and one or more tunable lenses, which can optionally be moved to change the focal length of the optical assembly 404.

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, optical assembly 404 includes an achromatic lens 408. When the image projected by projector 402 includes multiple wavelengths (e.g., to simulate a white light slit for slit-lamp inspection of eye 10), the achromatic lens 408 controls chromatic aberration. In embodiments where projector 402 projects a monochromatic image, the achromatic lens 408 may be omitted. In other embodiments, a multi-element lens (e.g., a camera lens having its chromatic aberration and monochromatic aberration, as well as field curvature and distortion) may be used for optical assembly 404. Exemplary lenses include the NMV-50 model available from NAVITAR.

[0154] In the illustrated embodiment, optical component 404 includes a mirrored prism 410 that alters the optical axis of the image projection generated by projector 402. Figure 6As shown, the direction of image projection changes from axis 412 to optical axis 108. In embodiments where axis 412 is aligned with optical axis 108, the reflecting prism 410 can be omitted. Furthermore, although the reflecting prism 410 is shown, the optical assembly 404 can use a front surface mirror or other reflective optics to change the direction of the image projected by the projector 402.

[0155] Reference Figure 7 An exemplary observation system 500 is shown as an example of observation system 104. Observation system 500 includes a plurality of camera devices (illustratively two camera devices) that are pointed at the position of eye 10. A first camera device 502 is pointed along axis 506, which may be aligned with optical axis 112 (see [reference]). Figure 2 The first imaging device 502 includes an associated optical component 508. The second imaging device 504 is pointed along axis 510 and includes an associated optical component 512. Axis 510 is angled relative to axis 506 and intersects axis 506 at position 514. In one embodiment, position 514 is within the focal range of the first imaging device 502 and associated optical component 508, and the second imaging device 504 and associated optical component 512. In one embodiment, axis 510 is aligned with axis 506. In another embodiment, axis 510 does not intersect axis 506, but rather axis 510 and axis 506 are offset. Although a single imaging device 504 is shown, multiple imaging devices 504 are provided in the embodiment. For example, multiple imaging devices 540 can be used to capture images to provide a stereoscopic view of the eye 10 on display 382, ​​or to store them in memory 312 for later retrieval.

[0156] In the illustrated embodiment, axis 510 is angled downward toward axis 506, and axis 506 is horizontal. In another embodiment, axis 510 is angled upward toward axis 506, and axis 506 is horizontal. In yet another embodiment, depending on the positioning of the imaging device 502 and the optical assembly 508, axis 510 is horizontal, and axis 506 is angled upward or downward toward axis 510. In yet another embodiment, both axis 506 and axis 510 are angled relative to the horizontal plane. Although shown as vertically aligned, axis 510 can be rotated about axis 506 such that axis 510 and axis 506 are horizontally aligned or aligned along a plane passing through axis 506 and angled relative to the vertical plane.

[0157] Each of optical components 508 and 512 focuses light reflected by the eye 10 (diffuse light) onto a corresponding one of the first imaging device 502 and the second imaging device 504. In the illustrated embodiment, each of optical components 508 and 512 includes one or more lenses 520, 522 and one or more tunable lenses 524, 526. In the embodiment, one or both of optical components 508 and 512 may also include reflective optics that can optionally introduce optical power into the corresponding optical component 508, 512. Furthermore, in the embodiment, one or both of optical components 508 and 512 may omit one of the lenses 520, 522 or the tunable lenses 524, 526. Regardless of the configuration of the corresponding optical components 508 and 512, each of the optical components 508 and 512 is adjustable to change the focal plane of the corresponding first imaging device 502 and the second imaging device 504. In an implementation, at least one plane 507 to be imaged by the observation system 500 (see...) Figure 22 The optical axis 506 is perpendicular to the observation system 500. The observation system 500 is focused to image a plane including point 682. As discussed herein, lenses such as lenses 520 and 522 can be mounted on movable supports whose positions can be adjusted to change the focal length of the respective optical components 508 and 512, and tunable lenses such as tunable lenses 524 and 526 can change their focal length by changing the current applied to the respective tunable lenses 524 and 526.

[0158] In one embodiment, the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 are each digital camera devices having a detector array composed of pixels that record light reflected from the eye 10 and focused by corresponding optical components 508 and 512 onto the detector arrays of the respective first camera device 502 and second camera device 504. The detector array may include various pixel types, such as red wavelength-sensitive detection pixels, green wavelength-sensitive detection pixels, and blue wavelength-sensitive detection pixels. In another embodiment, one or both of the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 are light field camera devices that record light field data to allow for further manipulation of the image's focus through digital processing. Exemplary light field camera devices include all-light camera devices.

[0159] like Figure 7As shown, the vertical axis 530 passing through position 514 is offset by a first distance 523 relative to axis 162. In one embodiment, the first distance 523 is approximately 7.7 millimeters (mm). In another embodiment, the first distance 523 is between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm. In one embodiment, the vertical axis 530 is aligned with axis 162, and the first distance 523 is zero. In another embodiment, the vertical axis 530 is set to be equal to the radius of curvature of the cornea 12 of the eye 10. By positioning axis 162 behind the vertical axis 530, axis 162 can be approximately placed at position 514 on the surface of the cornea 12 of the eye 10, at the center of curvature of the cornea 12 of the eye 10. Therefore, when the observation system 104 rotates about axis 162, assuming the cornea 12 of the eye 10 is a spherical model, each of the first imaging device 502 and the second imaging device 504 can remain focused on the cornea 12 of the eye 10. Similarly, as the illumination system 102 rotates about axis 162, assuming the cornea 12 of the eye 10 is a spherical model, the image projected by the illumination system 102 can remain focused on the cornea 12 of the eye 10. In an embodiment, the controller 300 can adjust the focal position of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 to move position 514 to different depths within the eye 10, or to follow the aspherical model of the cornea 12 of the eye 10, as described herein.

[0160] Turning Figure 8 Position 514 is shown positioned on the surface of the cornea 12 of the eye 10. The cornea 12 is also shown in positions that are too close to the first imaging device 502 and the second imaging device 504 (as indicated by cornea 12') and too far from the first imaging device 502 and the second imaging device 504 (as indicated by cornea 12''). If the cornea 12 is too close or too far, the movable base 140 can be adjusted to move position 514 to the surface of the cornea 12. In one embodiment, the movable base 140 can be moved manually. In another embodiment, the movable base 140 is moved automatically by the controller 300. Alternatively, one or both of the optics 508 and optics 512 can be adjusted by the controller 300 to move position 514. In this embodiment, the movable base 140 and at least one of the optics 508 and optics 512 are adjusted to move position 514, for example, by the controller 300. The controller 300 can also adjust the focus of the lighting system 102 and the lateral position of the light projected by the lighting system 102. The lateral position of the light projected by the lighting system 102 can be adjusted by changing the image projected by the projector 402 (e.g., changing which pixels correspond to the slit portion of the image instead of the background portion of the image (see...)). Figure 26 Adjust accordingly.

[0161] In an embodiment, the source 200 of the illumination system 102 can be used to help position 514 on the surface of the cornea 12. For example, the illumination system 102 can project a test pattern 550 (see Figure 9A) onto the eye 10 (see Figure 9B). Referring to Figure 9A, an image 540 of an exemplary test pattern is shown, having a bright central horizontal slit 542 and a diffuse lower light region 544. In an embodiment, image 540 is generated by projector 402 and projected onto the eye 10, as shown in Figure 9B (image observed by camera device 502). As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the orientation of the slit 542 is the same. In an embodiment, when the image generated by projector 402 passes through optical assembly 404 and is projected onto the eye 10, optical assembly 404 flips or otherwise alters the orientation of the image. For simplicity, the image generated by projector 402 provided herein is shown with the intended orientation when projected onto the eye 10.

[0162] As shown in Figure 9B, the horizontal slit 542 is vertically aligned with the center of the pupil 18 of the eye 10. If the horizontal slit 542 is not vertically aligned with the center of the pupil 18 of the eye 10, the patient support 144 can be adjusted upward in direction 154 or downward in direction 156 to center the horizontal slit 542 on the pupil 18 of the eye 10. In an embodiment, the controller 300 automatically adjusts the height of the patient support 144 to vertically align the horizontal slit 542 with the center of the pupil 18 of the eye 10. For example, the controller 300 can analyze the intensity values ​​of the pixels recorded by the first camera device 502 to determine the left edge 17 and right edge 19 of the pupil 18, and move the patient support 144 up and down to determine the height position with the greatest separation between the left edge 17 and the right edge 19. The determined height position corresponds to the horizontal slit 542 vertically aligned with the center of the pupil 18 of the eye 10. In one embodiment, the height of the patient support 144 is manually adjusted by the person performing the test on the patient to vertically align the horizontal slit 542 with the center of the pupil 18 of the eye 10.

[0163] Once the horizontal slit 542 is vertically aligned with the center of the pupil 18 of the eye 10 (as shown in FIG. 9B), the controller 300 can execute logic to align the inspection system 100 relative to the eye 10 in directions 150, 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 300 executes logic to position 514 on the surface of the cornea 12 of the eye 10 at the apex of the cornea 12. In other embodiments, the inspection system 100 can be aligned relative to the eye 10 in directions 150, 152 by focusing on other structures of the eye 10 (e.g., the iris structure, the location of the limbus, and / or the pupillary margin) and using a population average of the anterior chamber depth from ocular tomography or laser interferometry to approximate the location of the corneal apex and positioning direction 154 at that approximate location. Alternatively, other techniques can be used to align the inspection system 100 relative to the eye 10, including rangefinders, lidar, calculated depth maps from light field imaging devices or stereoscopic imaging devices. In implementations, contrast-detection autofocus, phase-detection autofocus, or dual-pixel autofocus is used to maintain focus on the cornea, iris, lens, and / or other eye structures.

[0164] Reference Figure 7A The third camera device 504' and its associated optical element 512' are shown positioned symmetrically with respect to the axis 506 of the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504. Both the second camera device 504 and the third camera device 504' are positioned on the same plane and symmetrically with respect to the axis 506 of the first camera device 502. Figure 7 The second camera device 504 is angled relative to the first camera device 502 in the same manner. The second camera device 504 and the third camera device 504' form a stereo pair. In this embodiment, the second camera device 504 and the third camera device 504' are used to adjust the position of position 514 relative to the cornea 12. In this embodiment, the controller 300, based on the second camera device 504 and the third camera device 504', actively maintains the position of 514 on the surface of the cornea 12 by moving the movable base 140, while making the first camera device 502 available for high-resolution imaging. Alternatively, other techniques can be used to align the inspection system 100 relative to the eye 10, including rangefinders, lidar, calculated depth maps from light field cameras or stereo cameras. In this embodiment, contrast detection autofocus, phase detection autofocus, or dual-pixel autofocus is used to maintain focus on the cornea, iris, lens, and / or other eye structures.

[0165] Turning Figure 10An exemplary processing sequence 600 of the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300 is shown for aligning the camera device 130 of the inspection system 100 with the cornea 12 of the eye 10. In an embodiment, a technician may use the inspection system 100 to manually perform the steps of the processing sequence 600.

[0166] Reference Figure 10 A test pattern is projected onto the patient's eye 10 using an illumination system, such as illumination system 102, as indicated by block 602. In one embodiment, the test pattern projected onto the patient's eye 10 using illumination system 102 is programmed into a digital light projector (e.g., projector 402) to display the test pattern and project it onto the eye 10. In this example, the test pattern is a horizontal line.

[0167] return Figure 10 Using a first camera device, such as first camera device 502, a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye is received along a first direction, as indicated by block 604. Using a second camera device, such as second camera device 504, a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye is received along a second direction, as indicated by block 606. The first axis 506 of the first direction intersects the second axis 510 of the second direction. The first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 are moved relative to the patient's eye 10 until the first portion and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic, as indicated by block 608.

[0168] In one implementation, the positioning system of the imaging system is actuated by a movement command from the controller 300, based on the fact that a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have characteristics different from the first characteristic, to move the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 relative to the patient's eye 10. Alternatively, the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 can be moved relative to the patient's eye 10 by receiving manual input to a support (e.g., a movable base 140) of at least one of the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 to reposition the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 relative to the patient's eye 10. Alternatively, as described herein, instead of moving the movable base 140, or in addition to moving the movable base 140, the characteristics of one or more of the optics 508 and the optics 512 can be adjusted.

[0169] In one embodiment, the processing sequence 600 further includes displaying a first portion and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern on a display screen. This provides the operator of the examination system 100 with a visual cue regarding the alignment of the examination system 100 with the patient's cornea 12. In another embodiment, each of the illumination system 102, the first camera device 502, and the second camera device 504 is supported on a movable base 140 such that the illumination system 102, the first camera device 502, and the second camera device 504 move as a whole relative to the patient's eye 10.

[0170] In one embodiment, the test pattern includes a first elongated feature having a longitudinal axis in a third direction perpendicular to a plane defined by a first direction and a second direction. A first imaging device 502 receives a first portion of the test pattern reflected from the eye along the first direction, and a second imaging device 504 receives a second portion of the test pattern reflected from the eye along the second direction. The first portion of the test pattern's reflection may include the first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern, and the second portion of the test pattern's reflection may include the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern. In one embodiment, the first portion and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along the third direction with a first characteristic, instructing the first imaging device 502 and the second imaging device 504 to be aligned with the patient's eye 10 by aligning position 514 with the surface of the cornea 12. When position 514 is not aligned with the surface of cornea 12, the first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset along a third direction with a second characteristic (e.g., vertically offset when the third direction is horizontal), indicating that at least one of the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 is not aligned with the patient's eye 10.

[0171] Refer to Figures 9A and 9B. Figure 11A , Figure 11B as well as Figures 12 to 14 An exemplary test pattern 550 (see FIG. 9A) is projected onto the eye 10 (see FIG. 9B). Referring to FIG. 9A, an image 540 of the exemplary test pattern 550 is shown, which has a bright central horizontal slit 542 and a diffuse lower light region 544. In an embodiment, image 540 is generated by projector 402 and projected onto the eye 10, as shown in FIG. 9B (image observed by camera device 502). As shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the orientation of the slit 542 is the same. In an embodiment, when the image generated by projector 402 passes through optical assembly 404 and is projected onto the eye 10, optical assembly 404 flips or otherwise changes the orientation of the image. For simplicity, the image generated by projector 402 provided herein is shown with the intended orientation when projected onto the eye 10.

[0172] The horizontal crack 542 is an example elongated feature of the test pattern 550. In embodiments, the test pattern 550 includes a plurality of elongated features and / or additional feature shapes. The elongated features may be oriented in a horizontal direction, a vertical direction, an angle relative to a horizontal plane, or a combination thereof. The test pattern 550 may include an elongated feature such as the horizontal crack 542 having a longitudinal axis 545 in a third direction 554. The third direction 554 is perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction of axis 506 and the second direction of axis 510. In other words, the third direction 554 is contained in a plane perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction of axis 506 and the second direction of axis 510. Figure 7 In the plane of the view.

[0173] The main camera device 502 receives the first part of the reflection of the test pattern 550. Figure 11A Image 560), the first part includes the first portion 546 of the elongated feature (horizontal crack 542) of the test pattern 550. Overview: The camera device 504 receives the reflection of the second portion of the test pattern 550 ( Figure 11B Image 562), the second part includes the second part 548 of the elongated feature (horizontal crack 542) of the test pattern 550. The first part 546 of the elongated feature (horizontal crack 542) of the test pattern 550 and the second part 548 of the elongated feature (horizontal crack 542) of the test pattern 550 are respectively included in sub-image 564 of image 560 (the box defined by A) and sub-image 566 of image 562 (the box defined by B). The controller 300 scales sub-image 566 of image 562 to the same vertical height as sub-image 564 of image 560 based on the magnification of the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504.

[0174] By comparing the first portion 546 of the elongated feature (horizontal slit 542) of the test pattern 550 and the second portion 548 of the elongated feature (horizontal slit 542) of the test pattern 550, the alignment of the first camera device 502 and the second camera device 504 with the eye 10 can be determined. (Refer to...) Figure 14 The first part 546 and the second part 548 are vertically aligned in direction 556, which is perpendicular to direction 554. This indicates position 514 (see [reference]). Figure 8 The first characteristic is positioned on the surface of the cornea 12 of the eye 10. (Refer to...) Figure 12 The first portion 546 and the second portion 548 are vertically offset in direction 556, wherein the first portion 546 is higher than the second portion 548, indicating that position 514 is behind the surface of the cornea (relative to the corneal surface). Figure 8 Position 514 in the middle, cornea at position 12'). (See reference...) Figure 13The first portion 546 and the second portion 548 are vertically offset in direction 556, wherein the second portion 548 is higher than the first portion 546, indicating that position 514 is in front of the surface of the cornea (relative to the cornea). Figure 8 Position 514 in the middle, cornea is at position 12'').

[0175] In this embodiment, sub-images 564 and 566 are displayed on the display 382 of the examination system 100. The display 382 may be part of the first camera device 502 or the second camera device 504, or a separate display. The operator of the examination system 100 can manually move the movable base 140 in one of directions 150 or 152 to adjust the position 514 relative to the cornea 12. For example, by moving the movable base 140 in direction 152, when position 514 is on the surface of the cornea 12, Figure 12 The second part 548 can be raised to align with the first part 546, thereby producing Figure 14 The image. In another example, by moving the movable base 140 in direction 150, when position 514 is on the surface of the cornea 12, Figure 12 The second part 548 can be lowered to align with the first part 546, thereby producing Figure 14 The image.

[0176] In one embodiment, the movable base 140 includes a positioning system 180, which includes one or more power actuators to move the movable base 140 relative to the patient support 144. A controller 300 is operatively coupled to the positioning system 180 to move the movable base 140 relative to the patient support 144 based on the positions of a first portion 546 and a second portion 548 detected by the controller 300. In one embodiment, the controller 300 executes a processing sequence 630 of examination logic 320 to align the examination system 100 to the eye 10. In one embodiment, the controller 300 aligns the examination system 100 to the apex of the cornea 12 of the eye 10 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 8 Point 514 in the middle). Turning. Figure 15 An image (e.g., image 540 of FIG. 9A) is projected onto the surface of eye 10, as represented by block 632. This is achieved using a first imaging device (e.g., a camera...). Figure 11A The first portion of the image is monitored by the first camera device 502 (captured sub-image 564), as indicated by block 634. A second camera device (e.g., by...) Figure 11B The second camera device 504 captures a sub-image 566, which monitors a second portion of the image, as indicated by block 636. The controller 300 determines whether the portion of the image meets a first criterion, as indicated by block 638. Figures 11A to 14In one implementation, the first criterion is whether the first portion 546 and the second portion 548 are vertically aligned. In other implementations, other criteria may be used, such as whether features of the two images overlap or whether they have a predetermined positional relationship. If the first criterion is met, processing sequence 630 exits, as indicated by block 640. In one implementation, controller 300 provides alignment instructions to the operator of examination system 100 using one or more output devices 380. If the first criterion is not met, controller 300 uses positioning system 180 to move movable base 140 relative to patient support 144, as indicated by block 642. Figures 11A to 14 In this implementation, when the second portion 548 is lower than the first portion 546, the controller 300 provides a movement command to the positioning system 180 to move the movable base 140 in direction 152 until the second portion 548 is aligned with the first portion 546. When the second portion 548 is higher than the first portion 546, the controller 300 provides a movement command to the positioning system 180 to move the movable base 140 in direction 150 until the second portion 548 is aligned with the first portion 546. When the second portion 548 is aligned with the first portion 546, the system 100 is checked against the apex of the cornea 12 of the eye 10 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 8 Align point 514 in the middle.

[0177] An illumination system 102 with projector 402 is capable of generating a test pattern that is projected onto the eye by optical component 404. An exemplary test pattern includes a virtual vertical slit 650 (see FIG. 16A, where the vertical slit 650 is in a first lateral position), which is projected onto the cornea 12 of the eye 10 by optical component 404 and stored as an image 660 by imaging device 502 (see FIG. 16B) and can be viewed on display 382. The slit 650 may have a width 652, which can be widened or narrowed by controller 300 via software of projector 402. In one embodiment, the slit 650 has a width ranging from about 0.1 mm to about 15 mm. In another embodiment, the slit 650 has a width ranging from about 0.25 mm to about 8 mm. Additionally, the horizontal offset 654 of the vertical slit 650 relative to the left edge of the image projected by the projector 402 can be changed by the controller 300 via the software of the projector 402. Referring to FIG17A, the vertical slit 650 has been further moved to the right in the projected image to a second lateral position offset from the first lateral position in FIG16A, and is stored as image 662 by the first camera device 502 (see FIG17B). Referring to FIG18A, the vertical slit 650 has been further moved to the right in the projected image than in FIG17A to a third lateral position offset from the first lateral position in FIG16A and the second lateral position in FIG17A, and is stored as image 664 by the first camera device 502 (see FIG18B). In an embodiment, the width 652 and the horizontal offset 654 of the vertical slit 650 can be controlled by the controller 300, or by an operator of the inspection system 100 via one or more input devices 360 of the inspection system 100.

[0178] The projected test pattern, such as the vertical slit 650, can have different color values ​​in different images. For example, projector 402 can project a vertical slit 650 with a first color value in a first image and a vertical slit 650 with a second color value in a second image, the second color value being different from the first color value. Exemplary color values ​​include red, blue, white, no red, and other suitable colors. Furthermore, the projected test pattern, such as the vertical slit 650, can have different color values ​​in different test scenarios. For example, projector 402 can project a vertical slit 650 with a first color value in multiple lateral positions during one type of examination and project a vertical slit 650 with a second color value in multiple positions for different examinations. Exemplary color values ​​include red, blue, white, no red, and other suitable colors. Blue can be used for fluorescein mapping. White or no red is used for corneal imaging. Red can be used for backlit images.

[0179] In addition to changing the width 652 and / or horizontal offset 654 of the vertical slit 650, the projector 402 can project different features onto the eye 10. In FIG19A, the double slit 670 is projected by the projector 402 and stored as an image 672 by the first imaging device 502 (see FIG19B). Additionally, a watermark 676 can be included in the image projected by the projector 402 onto the eye 10 and imaged by the first imaging device 502. Furthermore, textual data, such as timestamps, patient names, indications of the nasal and temple sides of the image, and other suitable information, can be included. Although the double slit 670 is shown in FIG19A, in embodiments, three or more slits may be shown simultaneously.

[0180] Reference Figure 21 The outer surface of the cornea 12 of the eye 10 is represented as a sphere with a radius (R) equal to the difference between axis 162 and position 514. Axis 162 is the common axis of rotation of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104. Position 514 is the intersection of axis 506 of the first imaging device 502 and optical assembly 508 and axis 510 of the second imaging device 504 and optical assembly 512. The illumination system 102 (shown with axis 108) and the observation system 104 should both be focused at the same depth to properly form (for the illumination system 102) and image (for the observation system 104) projected onto the slit 650 on 12 (see Figure 16A).

[0181] exist Figure 21 In this configuration, the virtual vertical slit 650 is positioned along the optical axis 108 of the illumination system 102 and is focused onto the cornea 12, as indicated by position 680. In this embodiment, the controller 300 has a stored default focal length for the illumination system 102, used when the illumination system 102 rotates an angle relative to the axis 506 of the observation system 104. At that time, the virtual vertical slit 650 is focused onto the cornea 12. Since the illumination system 102 is focused at position 680, the imaging devices 502 and 504 should also be focused at the depth corresponding to position 680. Figure 21 As shown, the controller 300 knows the angle. And the estimated value of R. Therefore, the controller 300 can determine, according to Equation 1, the focus change (Δf) required to focus the observation system 104 at the depth corresponding to position 680. OBSERVATION ).

[0182] (1)

[0183] Reference Figure 22 ,and Figure 21The arrangement is the same, except that the virtual vertical slit 650 is now offset by a distance S relative to the optical axis 108, as indicated by position 682. The focus of both the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 needs to be changed to focus on position 682. Figure 22 As shown, the controller 300 knows the angle. The estimated values ​​of the offset distances S and R are used. Therefore, the controller 300 can determine, according to Equation 2, the focus change (Δf) required to focus the lighting system 102 at the depth corresponding to position 682. SOURCE ).

[0184] ,in, (2)

[0185] The controller 300 can also determine, according to Equation 3, the focal change (Δf) required to focus the observation system 104 at the depth corresponding to position 682. OBSERVATION ).

[0186] ,in, and (3)

[0187] As the virtual vertical slit 650 moves across the cornea 12, the controller 300 can adjust the focal lengths of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 to keep both the virtual vertical slit 650 and the image of the virtual vertical slit 650 observed by the observation system 104 in focus. In one embodiment, the virtual vertical slit 650 moves across the cornea 12 in the lateral direction 678 to obtain multiple images of the virtual vertical slit 650 at spaced-apart locations on the cornea 12 using the observation system 104. The focal length changes of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 can be adjusted by the controller 300 for (Δf) SOURCE Adjust one or more characteristics of the optical components 404 of the lighting system 102 and for (Δf) OBSERVATION This adjustment is made by modifying one or more characteristics of the optical components 508 and / or 512 of the observation system 104. In this embodiment, since each adjustment of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 can be made by adjusting a component within each of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104, the relative positions of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 with respect to the cornea 12 do not need to be changed. In other words, each of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 can remain stationary relative to the cornea 12 as the virtual vertical slit 650 moves across the cornea 12.

[0188] Despite Figure 21 and Figure 22In each of these, the surface of the cornea 12 is represented by a sphere of radius R, but the controller 300 may use other shapes to correspond to the shape of the cornea 12, such as aspherical curves, polynomial curves and other shapes. Figure 21 and Figure 22 The examples provided are non-limiting. In other embodiments, the shape of the cornea 12 is determined by the controller 300 by projecting a test pattern (e.g., a concentric ring similar to one produced by a corneal lens) onto the cornea 12 and measuring changes in the test pattern imaged by the examination system 100. In other embodiments, corneal curvature measurements obtained using slit scanning techniques, Scheimpflug-based imaging, or anterior segment ocular coherence tomography can be used to provide input to the controller 300 to determine the shape of the cornea 12.

[0189] In one implementation, the controller 300 may also intentionally focus the virtual vertical slit 650 at a location offset relative to the cornea 12, for example, deeper into the eye 10 behind the cornea 12. Similarly, the controller 300 will then also focus the observation system 104 at a depth corresponding to the offset relative to the cornea 12. Figure 22A As shown, position 682 is positioned behind the cornea 12 on a construction circle 684 of radius (R-Δ), where R is the radius of the cornea 12 and Δ is the offset to the construction circle 684. Each of the cornea 12 and the construction circle 684 has its own center of curvature, which are aligned with axis 162.

[0190] Using the shape of the constructed circle 684, the controller 300 can again move the virtual vertical slit 650 across the eye 10 in the lateral direction 678, while adjusting the focus of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104, so that the observation system 104 can obtain multiple images of the virtual vertical slit 650 focused on spaced locations on the constructed circle 684. The focus of each of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 can be combined as described above. Figure 22 Adjustments are made as described, where R-Δ replaces R. Therefore, the controller 300 can inspect the eye 10 at multiple depths and multiple lateral positions without moving the lighting system 102 or the observation system 104 relative to the eye 10.

[0191] Similarly, although in Figure 22A In this context, the constructed circle 684 is represented by a sphere with radius R-Δ, but the controller 300 can use other shapes to correspond to the shape of the constructed circle 684, such as aspherical curves, polynomial curves, and other shapes. Figure 22A The examples provided are non-restrictive.

[0192] Reference Figure 23The diagram illustrates a representation of multiple depth scan contours 700. As shown, a first contour 702 of the multiple depth scan contours 700 typically matches the cornea 12 and may be consistent with... Figure 21 and Figure 22 Examples in the diagram are similar to spherical or aspherical surfaces, or other suitable forms. As contour 700 is positioned deeper within eye 10, it flattens and approaches a linear or near-linear form, as shown in contour 704, for example. The advantage of this is that the deeper structures to be imaged in eye 10 (e.g., the anterior surface of the lens and the iris) are substantially flatter than the cornea. Additionally, in the case of an intraocular lens (IOL), the intraocular lens and the remainder of the capsule are substantially flat. This method allows for scanning of the nearly concentric anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea and the substantially flat deeper structures (lens, iris, IOL). Figure 24 Another example of multiple contours 700 is shown. In an embodiment, the contours 700 may flatten as they advance from the cornea 12 toward the lens 20, approximating the anterior surface of the lens 20 at a depth corresponding to a position of the anterior surface of the lens 20, flattening at a depth within the lens 20, and approximating the posterior surface of the lens 20 at a depth corresponding to a position of the posterior surface of the lens 20 (note that the center of curvature of the contour corresponding to the posterior surface of the lens 20 is closer to the cornea 12 than the center of curvature of the contour corresponding to the anterior surface of the lens 20). In an embodiment, the curvature reversal of the posterior surface of the lens 20 is generated by the controller 300 using a Gaussian function with a negative amplitude.

[0193] In an implementation, the controller 300 uses average corneal and lens curvature data from a set of normal eyes or from a theoretical eye optical model (e.g., the Gullstrand eye model) to determine multiple depth scan profiles 700.

[0194] Reference Figure 25 and Figure 26 Multiple example focal positions are shown for multiple contours 720. In the illustrated embodiment, seven contours 722, 726, 730, 734, 738, 742, and 746 are shown, corresponding to various depth scan profiles. In other embodiments, more or fewer contours 720 may be implemented. See also... Figure 26An exemplary image 710 projected by the lighting system 102 and specifically by the source 200 is shown. Although shown as a single image, in embodiments, image 710 is a composite of multiple different images, each containing one of the multiple virtual vertical cracks 712A to 712I shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the first image would include virtual vertical crack 712A, the second image would include virtual vertical crack 712B, and so on, a total of nine separate images, each projected independently and sequentially in the embodiment. Although nine virtual vertical cracks are shown, in embodiments, fewer or additional virtual vertical cracks are projected independently in fewer or additional images and sequentially in the embodiment. In embodiments, multiple spaced-apart cracks can be projected into the same image, and the inspection logic 320 using image processing techniques can isolate each corresponding crack in the image captured by the camera device of the observation system. The advantage of projecting multiple cracks into the same image is, in particular, that it accelerates the data acquisition of the inspection logic 320.

[0195] return Figure 25 When the controller 300 projects an image containing the virtual vertical crack 712A onto the eye 10, each of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104 is focused on position 724A of contour 722, position 728A of contour 726, position 732A of contour 730, position 736A of contour 734, position 740A of contour 738, position 744A of contour 742, and position 748A of contour 746. The virtual vertical crack 712A is... Figure 25 The middle part is represented by the ray 714A. Figure 25 It also includes the focal position (unnumbered, but indicated by circles) of each of the contours 720 for each of the virtual vertical slits 712B to 712I represented by light rays 714B to 714I. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300 focuses each of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 at sixty-three individual focal positions without moving the illumination system 102 or the observation system 104 relative to the eye 10. In other embodiments, the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300 includes fewer or additional focal positions for inspection. In the embodiment, in Figure 25 At each of the points shown (e.g., 724A), the corresponding plane is imaged by the observation system 500 onto an optical axis 506 passing through the corresponding point and perpendicular to the observation system 500. In an embodiment, the inspection logic 320 aligns each of the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 to the vertex 514 of the cornea 12 of the eye 10 in a first spatial configuration. While the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104 are maintained in the first spatial configuration, the inspection logic 320 causes the controller 300 to... Figure 25The inspection is performed at the location indicated in the diagram. For example, the controller 300 may perform the following steps: (a) projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a first depth of focus (e.g., point 728A) relative to the apex of the cornea using a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system, the first image including a vertical slit (e.g., slit 712A) in a first lateral position; (b) receiving light reflected from the eye from projection step (a) using a first camera device via a second adjustable optical component of the observation system, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the first depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea; (c) projecting the first image from the digital projector toward the eye at a second depth of focus (e.g., point 732A) relative to the apex of the cornea using the first adjustable optical component, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including a vertical slit in the first lateral position; and (d) receiving light reflected from the eye from projection step (c) using the first camera device via the second adjustable optical component, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the second depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea. The controller continues to operate on various images of vertical cracks at various lateral positions and depths of focus. In another example, controller 300 may perform the following steps: (a) projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a first depth of focus (e.g., point 728A) relative to the apex of the cornea using a first adjustable optical component of an illumination system, the first image including a vertical slit (e.g., slit 712A) in a first lateral position; (b) receiving light reflected from the eye from projection step (a) using a first camera device via a second adjustable optical component of an observation system, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the first depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea; (c) projecting a second image from the digital projector toward the eye at a second depth of focus (e.g., point 727A) relative to the apex of the cornea using the first adjustable optical component, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a vertical slit (e.g., slit 712B) in a second lateral position offset from the first lateral position; and (d) receiving light reflected from the eye from projection step (c) using the first camera device via the second adjustable optical component, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the second depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea.

[0196] Reference Figures 27 to 30 An exemplary process is shown for defining the contour curve 720 and corresponding depth of focus for the illumination system 102 and the observation system 104. (Refer to...) Figure 27 A general profile (illustratedly profile 722) for a desired depth scan profile is shown, and a general virtual vertical crack (illustratedly represented as a projection along ray 714) is shown.

[0197] exist Figure 27In the diagram, contour 722 is aspherical. (See reference...) Figure 28 Outline 722 follows Figure 27 The eye scanning equation shown is in the form of a variant of the parametric form for an even-order aspherical surface. This equation, for a given curvature c (c = 1 / R) and a conic constant k (for k = 0, the eye equation becomes circular), specifies the depth z of profile 722 at a given x-value. The ray 714 projected onto the virtual vertical slit follows... Figure 27 The equation for the ray is shown in the form that specifies the depth z for various x values.

[0198] Now, to determine the focal position of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104, the controller 300 determines the intersection of the eye scanning equation and the ray equation, i.e., the depth of focus of the lighting system 102 and the observation system 104. In one embodiment, the controller 300 determines the intersection by solving a set of equations (the eye scanning equation and the ray equation). In another embodiment, the controller 300 determines the depth z of each of the eye scanning equation and the ray equation for multiple x values, such as... Figure 28 As shown. Next, the controller 300 determines the absolute value of the difference between the ray equation and the eye scanning equation, as... Figure 30 As shown. The global minimum of this difference is at x-position 750, which corresponds to the eye scan equation and ray equation with the same depth z-value. Return Figure 27 The x-position 750 is represented as x p And the corresponding depth position is represented as z. p This causes the lighting system 102 to be focused on a point with coordinates (x, y). p , z p At point p, and the observation system 104 is focused at depth z. p In the implementation method, at... Figure 27 In the middle, the initial focus of the lighting system 102 is at point p. n Therefore, controller 300 determines from p n Δf along the direction of ray 714 s (Δsource). Furthermore, the controller 300 determines Δf from the initial focusing position 514 of the observation system 104. i (Δobservation). Controller 300 repeats this process for each planned scan position along a given contour and at various depths. In one embodiment, controller 300 scans all planned scan positions on a given contour before moving to the next contour. In another embodiment, controller 300 scans all depths (for each planned contour) of a given ray 714 before moving the crack to the next planned ray.

[0199] like Figure 25As shown, in this embodiment, as the planned scan penetrates deeper into the eye, the scan contour becomes more linear and exhibits less depth variation. In this embodiment, this flattening of the contour is achieved by the controller 300 by altering the eye scan equation for each successive contour (see...). Figure 28 The controller uses the curvature value in the model to control the profile. In one example, the controller 300 may linearly decrease the curvature value to flatten the profile. In another example, the controller 300 follows a Gaussian distribution (e.g., ...). Figure 29 The distribution shown (760) is used to control the flattening of the profile in the depth (z) direction. Figure 29 The curvature values ​​corresponding to each of contours 722, 726, 730, 734, 738, 742 and 746 are shown in the figure.

[0200] The examination system 100 can be used to determine additional characteristics of the examined eye 10. (See reference...) Figure 31 The eye 10 is illuminated by a virtual horizontal slit 800, which spans the field of view of the observation system 104. (See reference...) Figure 32 The controller 300 can scan the intensity values ​​received by the first camera device 502 to determine the position of the limbus 802 of the eye 10. The limbus 802 is the intersection of the transparent cornea 12 and the opaque sclera 13 of the eye 10. Figure 32 As shown, reflected light from the cornea 12 is typically at a first low level 804, and reflected light from the sclera 13 is typically at a second high level 806. In an embodiment, the controller 300 determines when the reflected light has an intensity value intermediate between levels 804 and 806, and this position corresponds to the location of the limbus 802. For the virtual horizontal slit 800, the controller 300 should detect both the left and right limbus positions. In an embodiment, the controller 300 can use the determined limbus positions to help align the examination system 100 to the eye 10.

[0201] Furthermore, determining the position of the limbus 802 can be used to monitor whether the subject moves their eye during the examination. (See reference...) Figure 33AThe controller 300 can project multiple slits using the source 200, illustratively, as an upper left slit 830, an upper right slit 832, an lower left slit 834, and an lower right slit 836, all angled toward the center 828 of the eye 10. The position of the limbus 802 can be determined by the controller 300 for each of these slits (upper left slit 830, upper right slit 832, lower left slit 834, and lower right slit 836). If the position of the limbus 802 does not change for any of the upper left slit 830, upper right slit 832, lower left slit 834, and lower right slit 836, the controller 300 determines that the eye 10 has not moved.

[0202] If, for the upper left slit 830 and upper right slit 832, the limbus 802 moves outward away from the center 828, and for the lower left slit 834 and lower right slit 836, it moves inward toward the center 828, then the controller 300 determines that the eye 10 has moved upward in direction 840. If, for the lower left slit 834 and lower right slit 836, the limbus 802 moves outward away from the center 828, and for the upper left slit 830 and upper right slit 832, it moves inward toward the center 828, then the controller 300 determines that the eye 10 has moved downward in direction 842. The movement of the eye 10 in direction 840 or direction 842 can be determined using only two of the four slits: upper left slit 830, upper right slit 832, lower left slit 834, and lower right slit 836.

[0203] If, for the upper right slit 832 and the lower right slit 836, the limbus 802 moves outward away from the center 828, while for the upper left slit 830 and the lower left slit 834, it moves inward toward the center 828, then the controller 300 determines that the eye 10 has moved to the left in direction 844. If, for the upper right slit 832 and the lower right slit 836, the limbus 802 moves inward toward the center 828, while for the upper left slit 830 and the lower left slit 834, it moves outward away from the center 828, then the controller 300 determines that the eye 10 has moved to the right in direction 846. The movement of the eye 10 in direction 844 or direction 846 can be determined using only two of the four slits: upper left slit 830, upper right slit 832, lower left slit 834, and lower right slit 836.

[0204] In one implementation, the controller 300 uses at least a portion of the upper left slit 830, upper right slit 832, lower left slit 834, and lower right slit 836 to monitor eye movement while simultaneously scanning a virtual vertical slit, such as virtual vertical slit 650, across the eye 10, as described herein. In another implementation, if eye movement is detected, the controller 300 uses at least a portion of the upper left slit 830, upper right slit 832, lower left slit 834, and lower right slit 836 to determine the direction (as described above) and magnitude of the movement, and adjusts the focus position of the lighting and observation systems relative to the virtual vertical slit 650 accordingly to continue the inspection. In yet another implementation, if eye movement is detected, the controller 300 monitors for a first time period to see if the eye 10 returns to its original position; if so, inspection continues with the virtual vertical slit 650; if not, inspection stops, and optionally, an alarm is provided to the operator.

[0205] In an implementation, the controller 300 may use other features of the examined eye 10 to track eye movement. For example, the controller 300 may determine the relatively circular boundaries of the pupil or limbus of the eye 10 and track their positions frame by frame, such as determining the center of one or each and tracking that center position frame by frame.

[0206] In one implementation, the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300 analyzes the captured image to determine if the subject blinks. For example, a blurred image may be associated with blinking, and the controller 300 maintains the projected slit 712 and the camera device at the current depth of focus until a focused image is obtained, and then moves to the next position in the scan being performed by the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300.

[0207] In one implementation, the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300 identifies the limbus 802 and limits the vertical extent of the slit 712 to not extend beyond the perimeter of the limbus 802. The diameter and center 828 of the limbus can be defined using, for example... Figure 33BThe test pattern shown is used to determine this. The controller 300 then knows the location of the slit 712 to be projected, can determine the intersection with the limbus 802, and truncates the slit 712 so as not to extend beyond the limbus 802. The advantage of truncating the slit 712 is, in particular, to avoid distraction of the observer of the observation system 104 from capturing overexposed areas of the sclera in the image. Alternatively or additionally, the brightness level of the slit 712 can be varied along its length to darken the area outside the limbus 802 and / or the perilimbal area before reaching the actual limbus. Thus, in one embodiment, the slit 712 will have a first brightness level across the cornea, with at least one lower brightness level at the limbal edge and outside the limbus. In another embodiment, the slit 712 will have a first brightness level across the cornea, with at least one lower brightness level at the limbal edge, and will be truncated outside the limbus.

[0208] In this implementation, the inspection logic 320 of the controller 300 identifies the limbus 802. The diameter and center 828 of the limbus can be determined using, for example... Figure 33B The test pattern shown is used to determine this. The controller 300, knowing the diameter of the limbus is "D", can instruct the illumination system 102 to generate a test pattern (which includes a halo or partial halo with a diameter approximately equal to "D") using the projector 402, and project this halo or partial halo onto the eye 10, where the halo or partial halo is approximately aligned with the limbus. This causes a portion of the light to be reflected internally within the cornea 12, allowing visualization of fine corneal scars or other pathologies. In this embodiment, the thickness of the halo or partial halo is approximately 1 mm.

[0209] Reference Figures 34 to 42 An exemplary inspection system 1000 is illustrated. In an embodiment, the inspection system 1000 operates in accordance with the description of the inspection system 100 herein.

[0210] Reference Figures 34 to 36 The examination system 1000 includes a base 1002 to which a patient support 1004 is coupled. The patient support 1004 includes a pair of upright members 1006 that support a chin rest 1008 and a forehead rest 1010. The chin rest 1008 and forehead rest 1010 are movable upward in direction 1020 and downward in direction 1022 (y-axis) to vertically position the patient's eyes 10 relative to the illumination system 1014 and observation system 1016 of the examination system 1000.

[0211] Each of the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 is supported by a movable base 1050, which in turn is supported by a base 1002. The movable base 1050 is movable relative to the base 1002 in directions 1024 away from the eye 10 and 1026 toward the eye 10 (z-axis), and in directions 1028 and 1030 (x-axis). The movement of the movable base 1050 relative to the base 1002 causes movement of both the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable base 1050 moves along the x-axis and z-axis by the operator gripping the input device 1054 and moving the movable base 1050. The movable base 1050 houses the shaft 1060 and is translatable along the shaft 1060 in directions 1028 and 1030 to move the movable base 1050 relative to the base 1002 on the x-axis. Furthermore, each end of the shaft 1060 has a wheel 1062 coupled thereto, which is housed in a raceway 1066 of the base 1002. Each wheel 1062 rolls in its respective raceway 1066 in directions 1024 and 1026 to move the movable base 1050 relative to the base 1002 on the z-axis. In one embodiment, one of the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 is not supported by the movable base 1050, and therefore does not move in sync with the movable base 1050 when the movable base 1050 moves relative to the base 1002.

[0212] Both the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 are supported on the column 1052 of the movable base 1050. Furthermore, see reference... Figure 40 Each of the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 can rotate about axis 162 in directions 1070 and 1072 relative to the movable base 1050. The lighting system 1014 is supported on platform 1074, and the observation system 1016 is supported on platform 1076. Each of platforms 1074 and 1076 can rotate independently relative to the movable base 1050. Therefore, the lighting system 1014 can rotate relative to the movable base 1050, while the observation system 1016 does not rotate accordingly relative to the movable base 1050, and vice versa.

[0213] Although the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 are shown as rotatable about a vertical axis (axis 162), one or both of the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 can rotate about a horizontal axis parallel to the x-axis or another axis in a plane defined by the x-axis and y-axis. In one embodiment, each of the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 can rotate about a separate axis relative to the movable base 1050. In the illustrated embodiment, the lighting system 1014 and the observation system 1016 can each rotate independently about axis 162 relative to the movable base 1050 and can rotate about axis 162 relative to each other.

[0214] Reference Figure 41 The lighting system 1014 can be positioned relative to the eye 10 to project a virtual vertical slit 650 onto the eye 10. In one embodiment, the lighting system 1014 includes components of the lighting system 400 and operates as described herein. In another embodiment, the observation system 1016 includes components of the observation system 500 and operates as described herein. Figure 41 As shown, the axis 506 of the first camera device 502 and the axis 510 of the second camera device 504 intersect at position 514.

[0215] Reference Figure 42 In one embodiment, platform 1074 includes mounting members 1080 and 1082 (illustratively pins), each of which can mate with a corresponding mounting member 1084 to secure the illumination system 1014 to platform 1074. Therefore, the illumination system 1014 can be positioned at various locations on platform 1074. Additionally, additional components such as beam splitter 1090, or other components such as OCT, fundus camera, intraocular lens biometer, topography device, contact or non-contact tonometer, corneal endothelial microscope (for endothelial imaging), and other suitable equipment may be used. In one embodiment, component 1090 may be a support for an additional lens (e.g., an aspherical lens) to enhance visualization of the central retina of eye 10 using the first imaging device 502.

[0216] The following examples provide non-limiting implementations of this disclosure.

[0217] Example 1. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; and an illumination system including at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system includes a first adjustable optical assembly. The medical device also includes an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system includes a second adjustable optical assembly having an optical axis. The observation system images at least one plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the second adjustable optical assembly. The medical device also includes a controller operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system. The controller is configured to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support, and to adjust the rotational position of the illumination system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

[0218] Example 2. The medical device according to Example 1, wherein the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support.

[0219] Example 3. A medical device according to any of Examples 1 and 2, wherein the controller is configured to adjust both a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to a first focal depth among a plurality of focal depths relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support; and to adjust both the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to a second focal depth among a plurality of focal depths relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth among a plurality of focal depths.

[0220] Example 4. A medical device according to either Example 1 or 2, wherein the controller sequentially focuses the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system at a corresponding depth of focus at each of the set of positions based on a set of positions for focusing the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0221] Example 5. The medical device according to Example 4, wherein the illumination system projects a test pattern focused by a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system.

[0222] Example 6. The medical device according to Example 5, wherein the lighting system includes a digital projector for displaying test patterns.

[0223] Example 7. The medical device according to Example 6, wherein the test pattern includes a vertical slit focused at a first depth of focus in a plurality of depths of focus for a first subset of the set of locations, the first subset including a first plurality of locations, and the controller is configured to project a series of images using a digital projector, each of the series of images having a vertical slit positioned at the first depth of focus to the corresponding location of the first plurality of locations.

[0224] Example 8. The medical device according to Example 7, wherein the first plurality of positions includes a first position having a first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, and a first image in a series of images includes a vertical slit positioned to be projected onto the first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, and wherein the first plurality of positions includes a second position having a second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, the second lateral position being offset from the first lateral position, and a second image in a series of images includes a vertical slit positioned to be projected onto the second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system.

[0225] Example 9. The medical device according to Example 6, wherein the test pattern has a first color value in a first image and a second color value in a second image, the second color value being different from the first color value.

[0226] Example 10. The medical device according to any of Examples 6 to 9, wherein the test pattern further includes one or more of the following: indications on the nasal and temple sides of the projected image, the patient's name, and a timestamp.

[0227] Example 11. A medical device according to any of Examples 6 to 10, wherein the test pattern further includes a watermark.

[0228] Example 12. A medical device according to any of Examples 5, 6 and 9 through 11, wherein the test pattern includes a vertical slit.

[0229] Example 13. A medical device according to any of Examples 5, 6 and 9 to 11, wherein the test pattern includes a plurality of slits, the plurality of slits including a first slit and a second slit spaced apart from the first slit.

[0230] Example 14. The medical device according to Example 12, wherein a vertical slit is focused at a first depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus for a first subset of the set of locations, the first subset including a first plurality of locations.

[0231] Example 15. The medical device according to Example 14, wherein the first plurality of positions includes a first position having a first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, and a second position having a second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the illumination system, the second lateral position being offset from the first lateral position.

[0232] Example 16. The medical device according to Example 12, wherein the illumination system is focused for a first position in the set of positions at a first depth of focus and a first lateral position off the optical axis of the illumination system, and for a second position in the set of positions at a second depth of focus and a second lateral position off the optical axis of the illumination system, the second depth of focus being off the first depth of focus and the second lateral position being off the first lateral position.

[0233] Example 17. The medical device according to Example 16, wherein the illumination system is focused for a third position in the set of positions at a second depth of focus and a third lateral position offset from the optical axis of the illumination system, the third lateral position being offset from the second lateral position.

[0234] Example 18. The medical device according to Example 17, wherein the observation system is focused at a first focal depth along the optical axis of the observation system for a first position in the set of positions, and at a second focal depth for a second position and a third position in the set of positions.

[0235] Example 19. A medical device according to any of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system includes a first tunable lens.

[0236] Example 20. A medical device according to any of Examples 1 to 19, wherein a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system includes a second tunable lens.

[0237] Example 21. A medical device according to any of Examples 1 to 20, wherein at least one source generates one of a halo and a partial halo, and wherein a controller is further configured to align one of the halo and the partial halo to the limbus of the patient's eye.

[0238] Example 22. A medical device according to any of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

[0239] Example 23. The medical device according to Example 22, wherein the controller determines eye movement during examination based on images captured by the observation system.

[0240] Example 24. A medical device according to any of Examples 22 and 23, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0241] Example 25. A medical device according to any of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the controller is further configured to determine blinking of the eye during examination.

[0242] Example 26. The medical device according to Example 1, wherein the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical system of an observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture the first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera device of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project the first image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including the first vertical slit; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture the second image of the first vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera device of the observation system.

[0243] Example 27. The medical device according to Example 26, wherein each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support when the controller performs (a) through (f).

[0244] Example 28. The medical device according to Example 1, wherein the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical system of an observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture the first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera device of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a second vertical slit offset from the position of the first vertical slit in the first image; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture the second image of the second vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera device of the observation system.

[0245] Example 29. The medical device according to Example 28, wherein each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support when the controller performs (a) through (f).

[0246] Example 30. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; and an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system includes a first adjustable optical assembly. The medical device also includes an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system includes a second adjustable optical assembly. At least one of the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical assembly of the observation system includes a tunable lens. The medical device also includes a controller operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical assembly of the observation system. The controller is configured to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support; and to adjust the rotational position of the illumination system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

[0247] Example 31. The medical device according to Example 30, wherein the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system includes a first tunable lens.

[0248] Example 32. The medical device according to any of Examples 30 and 31, wherein the second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

[0249] Example 33. A medical device according to any of Examples 30 to 32, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

[0250] Example 34. The medical device according to Example 33, wherein the controller determines eye movement during examination based on images captured by the observation system.

[0251] Example 35. A medical device according to any of Examples 33 and 34, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0252] Example 36. A medical device according to any of Examples 30 to 35, wherein the controller is further configured to determine blinking of the eye during examination.

[0253] Example 37. A medical device according to any of Examples 30 to 36, wherein the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical system of an observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture the first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera device of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project the first image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including the first vertical slit; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture the second image of the first vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera device of the observation system.

[0254] Example 38. The medical device according to Example 37, wherein each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support when the controller performs (a) through (f).

[0255] Example 39. A medical device according to any of Examples 30 to 36, wherein the controller is configured to: (a) adjust a first adjustable optical component to project a first image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) adjust a second adjustable optical system of an observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) capture the first image of the first vertical slit at the first depth of focus using a first camera device of the observation system; (d) adjust the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from a digital projector of an illumination system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a second vertical slit offset from the position of the first vertical slit in the first image; (e) adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) capture the second image of the second vertical slit at the second depth of focus using the first camera device of the observation system.

[0256] Example 40. The medical device according to Example 39, wherein each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support when the controller performs (a) through (f).

[0257] Example 41. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; and an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The medical device also includes an observation system including a plurality of imaging devices, each configured to receive an imaging ray generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and at least one observation system support arm supporting the plurality of imaging devices. The at least one observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The medical device further includes: a storage device operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of imaging devices to receive and store a plurality of images of the eye imaged by the at least one of the plurality of imaging devices; and a controller operatively coupled to the storage device and configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the patient's eye.

[0258] Example 42. The medical device according to Example 41, wherein the plurality of imaging devices include: a first imaging device and a first optical component having a first input optical axis and positioned to provide a first image to the first imaging device; and a second imaging device and a second optical component having a second input optical axis and positioned to provide a second image to the second imaging device.

[0259] Example 43. The medical device according to Example 41, wherein a plurality of imaging devices include: a first imaging device and a first optical component, the first optical component having a first input optical axis and positioned to provide a first image to the first imaging device; a second imaging device and a second optical component, the second optical component having a second input optical axis and positioned to provide a second image to the second imaging device; and a third imaging device and a third optical component, the third optical component having a third input optical axis and positioned to provide a third image to the third imaging device, the second imaging device and the third imaging device forming a stereo pair.

[0260] Example 44. The medical device according to Example 42, wherein each of the first optical component and the second optical component is positioned to receive imaging light generated by the reflection of light from the patient's eye.

[0261] Example 45. A medical device according to any of Examples 42 and 44, wherein the second input optical axis intersects the first input optical axis at a location within the focal range of the first optical component and the focal range of the second optical component.

[0262] Example 46. The medical device according to Example 45, wherein the first input optical axis and the second input optical axis are vertically aligned.

[0263] Example 47. A medical device according to any of Examples 42 to 46, wherein an illumination system is configured to provide a test pattern to illuminate a portion of a patient's eye, a first image of a first optical component captured by a first camera device includes a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern, a second image of a second optical component captured by a second camera device includes a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern, and a controller is configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the eye based on the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0264] Example 48. The medical device according to Example 47, wherein when a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a first characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is aligned with the patient's eye.

[0265] Example 49. A medical device according to any of Examples 47 and 48, wherein when a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a second characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the patient's eye due to being too close to the eye.

[0266] Example 50. A medical device according to any of Examples 47 to 49, wherein when a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a third characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the eye because it is too far away from the patient's eye.

[0267] Example 51. A medical device according to any of Examples 47 to 50, wherein the test pattern is a line.

[0268] Example 52. The medical device according to Example 51, wherein the first characteristic corresponds to the alignment of a line in a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern with a line in a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0269] Example 53. A medical device according to either Example 51 or 52, wherein the second characteristic corresponds to a line in a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern that is misaligned with a line in a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0270] Example 54. A medical device according to any of Examples 51 to 53, wherein, for each of the first, second, and third characteristics, the lines in the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern are in a non-overlapping relationship with the lines in the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0271] Example 55. A medical device according to any of Examples 41 to 54, wherein the controller is configured to move the movable base relative to the patient support when the observation system is not aligned with the patient's eye.

[0272] Example 56. The medical device according to any of Examples 47 to 55 further includes a display operatively coupled to the controller to display a first image of a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second image of a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0273] Example 57. A medical device according to any of Examples 47 to 56, wherein the lighting system includes a digital projector that generates a test pattern.

[0274] Example 58. A method is provided for aligning an imaging system toward a patient's eye. The method includes the steps of: projecting a test pattern onto the patient's eye using an illumination system; receiving a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a first direction using a first camera device; receiving a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a second direction using a second camera device, wherein a first axis of the first direction and a second axis of the second direction intersect at an intersection point; and moving the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye until the first portion and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic.

[0275] Example 59. The method according to Example 58 further includes displaying a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern on a display.

[0276] Example 60. The method according to any of Examples 58 and 59 further includes the step of supporting the lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device on a movable base such that the lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device move as a whole relative to the patient's eye.

[0277] Example 61. The method according to any of Examples 58 to 60, wherein the test pattern includes an elongated feature having a vertical axis in a third direction, the third direction being perpendicular to a plane defined by a first direction and a second direction and passing through the intersection of the first axis and the second axis.

[0278] Example 62. The method according to Example 61, wherein a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern includes a first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern, and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern includes a second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern.

[0279] Example 63. The method according to Example 62, wherein the first feature corresponds to a first portion of an elongated feature of the test pattern and a second portion of an elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along a fourth direction perpendicular to a third direction and in a plane.

[0280] Example 64. The method according to Example 62, wherein a first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern and a second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along a fourth direction perpendicular to a third direction and in a plane, indicating that the first and second imaging devices are aligned with the surface of the cornea of ​​the patient's eye.

[0281] Example 65. The method according to any of Examples 62 and 63, wherein a first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern and a second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset along a fourth direction with a second characteristic, indicating that at least one of the first and second camera devices is not aligned with the patient's eye.

[0282] Example 66. The method according to any of Examples 58 to 65, wherein the step of moving the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye until a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic includes: receiving manual input to a support of at least one of the first camera device and the second camera device to reposition at least one of the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye.

[0283] Example 67. The method according to any of Examples 58 to 65, wherein the step of moving the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye until the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic includes: actuating the positioning system of the first camera device and the second camera device using a movement command from the controller based on the fact that the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have characteristics different from the first characteristic.

[0284] Example 68. The method according to any of Examples 58 to 67, wherein the step of projecting a test pattern onto the patient's eyes using an illumination system includes: programming a digital projector to display the test pattern.

[0285] Example 69. The method described according to any of Examples 58 to 68, wherein the test pattern is a horizontal line.

[0286] Example 70. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: an illumination system configured to project a test pattern onto the patient's eye; a first imaging device positioned along a first direction to capture a first image of a first portion of a reflection of the test pattern from the eye; a second imaging device positioned along a second direction to capture a second image of a second portion of a reflection of the test pattern from the eye; and a display configured to simultaneously display at least the first portion of the test pattern based on the first image and the second portion of the test pattern based on the second image to provide an indication of the alignment state of the first and second imaging devices relative to the patient's eye.

[0287] Example 71. The medical device according to Example 70, wherein if a first portion of a test pattern is aligned with a second portion of a test pattern on a display, the alignment of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eyes is aligned.

[0288] Example 72. A medical device according to any of Examples 70 and 71, wherein if a first portion of a test pattern on a display is offset relative to a second portion of the test pattern, the alignment of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye is misaligned.

[0289] Example 73. A medical device according to any of Examples 70 to 72, wherein the test pattern includes an elongated feature having a longitudinal axis in a third direction.

[0290] Example 74. The medical device according to Example 73, wherein a third direction is perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

[0291] Example 75. A medical device according to any of Examples 73 and 74, wherein a first portion of a test pattern based on a first image includes a first portion of an elongated feature, and a second portion of a test pattern based on a second image includes a second portion of an elongated feature.

[0292] Example 76. The medical device according to Example 75, wherein when the first and second camera devices are aligned relative to the patient's eye, a first portion and a second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along a third direction.

[0293] Example 77. A medical device according to any of Examples 75 and 76, wherein when the alignment of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eye is misaligned, a first portion and a second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset in a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction.

[0294] Example 78. The medical device according to Example 77, wherein when the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern is offset to the first side of the first portion of the elongated feature, the first camera device and the second camera device are too close to the patient's eye, and when the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern is offset to the second side of the first portion of the elongated feature, the first camera device and the second camera device are too far away from the patient's eye, the second side being opposite to the first side.

[0295] Example 79. The medical device according to any of Examples 72 to 78 further includes a movable base supporting the lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device.

[0296] Example 80. A medical device according to any of Examples 70 to 79, wherein the lighting system includes a digital projector programmed to display a test pattern projected by the optical system of the lighting system.

[0297] Example 81. A medical device according to any of Examples 70 to 80, wherein the test pattern is a horizontal line.

[0298] Example 82. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; and an illumination system including a digital projector that generates at least one image to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting at least one source. The illumination system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The illumination system includes a first adjustable optical assembly. The medical device also includes an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflections of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. The observation system includes a second adjustable optical assembly. The medical device also includes a controller operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system. The controller is configured to adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support when the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support, wherein a first subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a first profile, and a second subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a second profile offset relative to the first profile, and wherein a digital projector generates a first image with a first vertical slit for the first depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the first depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus, and a second image with a second vertical slit for the second depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the second depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus, the second vertical slit being offset relative to the position of the first vertical slit in the first image.

[0299] Example 83. The medical device according to Example 82, wherein a first contour has a first shape and a second contour has a second shape, the second shape being different from the first shape.

[0300] Example 84. The medical device according to Example 83, wherein the second shape is flatter than the first shape.

[0301] Example 85. A medical device according to any of Examples 82 to 84, wherein the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system includes a first tunable lens.

[0302] Example 86. A medical device according to any of Examples 82 to 85, wherein the second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

[0303] Example 87. A medical device according to any of Examples 82 to 86, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

[0304] Example 88. The medical device according to Example 87, wherein the controller determines eye movement during examination based on images captured by the observation system.

[0305] Example 89. A medical device according to any of Examples 87 and 88, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and to adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0306] Example 90. A medical device according to any of Examples 82 to 89, wherein the controller is further configured to determine blinking of the eye during examination.

[0307] Example 91. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; and an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source. The illumination system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base, and the at least one source generates one of an optical halo and a partial optical halo. The medical device also includes an observation system including a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device. The observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm.

[0308] Example 92. The medical device of Example 91 further includes a controller operatively coupled to at least one source, the controller being configured to align one of the halo and a portion of the halo to the limbus.

[0309] Example 93. A medical device according to any one of Examples 91 and 92, wherein the lighting system includes a first adjustable optical component.

[0310] Example 94. A medical device according to any of Examples 91 to 93, wherein the observation system includes a second adjustable optical component.

[0311] Example 95. A medical device according to any of Examples 91 to 94, wherein at least one source is a digital projector.

[0312] Example 96. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: an illumination system comprising a digital projector that generates at least one image to illuminate the eye and a first adjustable optics component that projects the at least one image toward the eye; and an observation system comprising: a second adjustable optics component positioned to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the eye as the illumination system projects the at least one image toward the patient's eye; and a first imaging device configured to receive the imaging light from the second adjustable optics component. The illumination system and the observation system are positioned in a first spatial configuration, wherein the optical axes of the first adjustable optics component and the second optics component intersect at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye. The medical device also includes a controller operatively coupled to the illumination system and the observation system. The controller is configured to adjust the first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optics component of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the eye when the illumination system and the observation system are in the first spatial configuration.

[0313] Example 97. The medical device according to Example 96, wherein at least one image includes a test pattern.

[0314] Example 98. The medical device according to Example 97, wherein the test pattern includes a vertical crack, and in a first image of at least one image, the vertical crack is in a first lateral position, and in a second image of at least one image, the vertical crack is in a second lateral position, the second lateral position in the second image of at least one image being spaced apart from the first lateral position in the first image.

[0315] Example 99. The medical device according to Example 98, wherein when a first image in at least one image is generated by a digital projector, the controller focuses a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system at a first depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus to focus a vertical slit in a first lateral position on the cornea at a first position offset from the vertex of the cornea, and when a second image in at least one image is generated by the digital projector, the controller focuses the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system at a second depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus to focus a vertical slit in a second lateral position on the cornea at a second position offset from the vertex of the cornea, the second position on the cornea being offset from the first position on the cornea.

[0316] Example 100. The medical device according to Example 99, wherein when a first image in at least one image is generated by a digital projector, the controller also observes a second adjustable optical component of the system focusing on a first depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus to focus a vertical slit in a first lateral position on the cornea at a first position off the vertex of the cornea, and when a second image in at least one image is generated by a digital projector, the controller also observes a second adjustable optical component of the system focusing on a second depth of focus among a plurality of depths of focus to focus a vertical slit in a second lateral position on the cornea at a second position off the vertex of the cornea.

[0317] Example 101. A medical device according to Example 98, wherein a controller is configured to adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system to a plurality of depths of focus relative to the vertex of the cornea when the illumination system and the observation system are in a first spatial configuration, wherein a first subset of the plurality of depths of focus is part of a first profile, and a second subset of the plurality of depths of focus is part of a second profile offset relative to the first profile, and wherein a digital projector generates a first image having a vertical slit in a first lateral position for the first depth of focus in the first subset of the plurality of depths of focus of the first profile and the first depth of focus in the second subset of the plurality of depths of focus of the second profile, and a second image having a vertical slit in a second lateral position for the second depth of focus in the first subset of the plurality of depths of focus and the second depth of focus in the second subset of the plurality of depths of focus.

[0318] Example 102. The medical device according to Example 101, wherein a first contour has a first shape and a second contour has a second shape, the second shape being different from the first shape.

[0319] Example 103. The medical device according to Example 102, wherein the second shape is flatter than the first shape.

[0320] Example 104. A medical device according to any of Examples 96 to 103, wherein the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system includes a first tunable lens.

[0321] Example 105. A medical device according to any of Examples 96 to 104, wherein the second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

[0322] Example 106. The medical device according to Example 97, wherein the test pattern has a first color value in a first image and a second color value in a second image, the second color value being different from the first color value.

[0323] Example 107. A medical device according to any of Examples 97 to 106, wherein the test pattern further includes one or more of the following: indications on the nasal and temple sides of the projected image; patient name; and timestamp.

[0324] Example 108. A medical device according to any of Examples 97 to 107, wherein the test pattern further includes a watermark.

[0325] Example 109. The medical device according to Example 97, wherein the test pattern includes a plurality of cracks, the plurality of cracks including a first crack and a second crack spaced apart from the first crack.

[0326] Example 110. A medical device according to any of Examples 96 to 109, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

[0327] Example 111. The medical device according to Example 110, wherein the controller determines the movement of the eye during examination based on images captured by the observation system.

[0328] Example 112. A medical device according to any of Examples 110 and 111, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the direction and magnitude of eye movement and adjust a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and a second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

[0329] Example 113. A medical device according to any of Examples 96 to 112, wherein the controller is further configured to determine blinking of the eye during examination.

[0330] Example 114. The medical device according to any of Examples 96 to 113 further includes a base, an illumination system coupled to the base, and an observation system coupled to the base.

[0331] Example 115. The medical device according to Example 114, wherein the lighting system is movable relative to the base.

[0332] Example 116. A medical device according to any of Examples 114 and 115, wherein the lighting system is movable relative to the observation system.

[0333] Example 117. The medical device according to Example 116, wherein the lighting system is rotatable about a first rotation axis relative to the base.

[0334] Example 118. The medical device according to Example 117, wherein the lighting system includes a lighting system support arm supporting at least one source.

[0335] Example 119. A medical device according to any of Examples 117 and 118, wherein the observation system is rotatable about a first rotation axis relative to the base.

[0336] Example 120. The medical device according to Example 119, wherein the observation system includes an observation system support arm that supports the first camera device.

[0337] Example 121. The medical device according to Example 116 further includes: a patient support adapted for positioning a patient's eye. The base is a movable base movable relative to the patient support. The lighting system further includes a lighting system support arm supporting at least one source. The lighting system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. The observation system further includes an observation system support arm supporting a first imaging device. The observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the lighting system support arm.

[0338] Example 122. The medical device according to any of Examples 114 to 120 further includes: a patient support adapted to position a patient's eye, wherein the base is a movable base capable of moving relative to the patient support.

[0339] Example 123. A method for examining a patient's eye is provided. The method includes the steps of: positioning an illumination system and an observation system in a first spatial configuration relative to the eye, the first spatial configuration having the optical axes of a first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and a second optics component of the observation system intersecting at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; and while the illumination system and observation system are held in the first spatial configuration, performing the steps of: (a) projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a first depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optics component, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position; and (b) projecting an image through the second adjustable optics component using a first camera. The device receives light reflected from the eye in projection step (a), wherein a second adjustable optical component is focused at a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; (c) projects a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optical component, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position; and (d) receives light reflected from the eye in projection step (c) using the first camera device via the second adjustable optical component, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye.

[0340] Example 124. A method for examining a patient's eye is provided. The method includes the steps of: positioning an illumination system and an observation system in a first spatial configuration relative to the eye, the first spatial configuration having the optical axes of a first adjustable optics component of the illumination system and a second optics component of the observation system intersecting at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; and while the illumination system and the observation system are held in the first spatial configuration, performing the steps of: (a) projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye at a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optics component, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position; and (b) receiving the image from the projection via the second adjustable optics component using a first imaging device. The projection steps (a) involve the light reflected from the eye, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; (c) using the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from a digital projector toward the eye at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth, the second image including a vertical slit in a second lateral position offset from the first lateral position; and (d) using the second adjustable optical component and a first imaging device to receive the light reflected from the eye in projection step (c), wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye.

[0341] Example 125. A medical device is provided for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye. The medical device includes: a patient support adapted to position the patient's eye; a movable base movable relative to the patient support; an illumination system including at least one source generating light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm supporting the at least one source; an observation system including a plurality of imaging devices each configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and at least one observation system support arm supporting the imaging system; a storage device operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of imaging devices to receive and store a plurality of images of the eye imaged by the at least one of the plurality of imaging devices; and a controller operatively coupled to the storage device and configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the patient's eye. The illumination system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base. At least one observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm.

[0342] Example 126. The medical device according to Example 125, wherein the plurality of imaging devices include: a first imaging device and a first optical component having a first input optical axis and positioned to provide a first image to the first imaging device; and a second imaging device and a second optical component having a second input optical axis and positioned to provide a second image to the second imaging device.

[0343] Example 127. The medical device according to Example 125, wherein a plurality of imaging devices include: a first imaging device and a first optical component, the first optical component having a first input optical axis and positioned to provide a first image to the first imaging device; a second imaging device and a second optical component, the second optical component having a second input optical axis and positioned to provide a second image to the second imaging device; and a third imaging device and a third optical component, the third optical component having a third input optical axis and positioned to provide a third image to the third imaging device, the second imaging device and the third imaging device forming a stereo pair.

[0344] Example 128. The medical device according to Example 125, wherein each of the first optical component and the second optical component is positioned to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye.

[0345] Example 129. A medical device according to any of Examples 126 and 128, wherein the second input optical axis intersects the first input optical axis at a position within the focal range of the first camera device and the focal range of the second camera device.

[0346] Example 130. The medical device according to Example 129, wherein the first input optical axis and the second input optical axis are vertically aligned.

[0347] Example 131. A medical device according to any of Examples 126 to 130, wherein an illumination system is configured to provide a test pattern to illuminate a portion of a patient's eye, a first image of a first optical component captured by a first camera device includes a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern. A second image of a second optical component captured by a second camera device includes a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern. A controller is configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the eye based on the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0348] Example 132. The medical device according to Example 131, wherein when a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a first characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is aligned with the patient's eye.

[0349] Example 133. A medical device according to any of Examples 131 and 132, wherein when a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a second characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the patient's eye due to being too close to the eye.

[0350] Example 134. A medical device according to any of Examples 131 to 133, wherein when a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a third characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the eye because it is too far away from the patient's eye.

[0351] Example 135. A medical device according to any of Examples 131 to 134, wherein the test pattern is a line.

[0352] Example 136. The medical device according to Example 135, wherein the first characteristic corresponds to the alignment of a line in a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern with a line in a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0353] Example 137. A medical device according to any of Examples 135 and 136, wherein the second characteristic corresponds to a line in a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern that is misaligned with a line in a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0354] Example 138. A medical device according to any of Examples 135 to 137, wherein, for each of the first, second, and third characteristics, the lines in the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern are in a non-overlapping relationship with the lines in the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0355] Example 139. A medical device according to any of Examples 125 to 138, wherein the controller is configured to move the movable base relative to the patient support when the observation system is not aligned with the patient's eye.

[0356] Example 140. The medical device according to any of Examples 131 to 139 further includes a display operatively coupled to the controller to display a first image of a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second image of a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

[0357] Example 141. A medical device according to any of Examples 131 to 140, wherein the lighting system includes a digital light projector that generates a test pattern.

[0358] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments. For example, while the above embodiments relate to specific features, the scope of this disclosure also includes embodiments with different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the stated features. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is intended to include all such alternatives, modifications, and variations of the disclosed embodiments and all their equivalents.

Claims

1. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye; A movable base that can move relative to the patient support; An illumination system comprising at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm that supports the at least one source, the illumination system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base, the illumination system including a first adjustable optical component; An observation system comprising a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device, the observation system support arm being supported by a movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to an illumination system support arm, the observation system including a second adjustable optical component having an optical axis, the observation system imaging at least one plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the second adjustable optical component; as well as A controller, operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system, is configured to: The first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system are adjusted to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support; and Adjust the rotational position of the lighting system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

2. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein, The movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support.

3. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein, The controller is configured to: When the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support, both the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system are adjusted to a first focal depth among the plurality of focal depths relative to the patient support. and When the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support, both the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system are adjusted to a second focal depth among the plurality of focal depths relative to the patient support, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth among the plurality of focal depths.

4. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein, The controller sequentially focuses the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system at a corresponding depth of focus at each of the set of positions, based on a set of positions for focusing each of the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

5. The medical device according to claim 4, wherein, The lighting system projects a test pattern that is focused by the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system.

6. The medical device according to claim 5, wherein, The lighting system includes a digital projector that displays the test pattern.

7. The medical device according to claim 6, wherein, The test pattern includes a vertical slit focused at a first depth of focus in one of the plurality of depths of focus for a first subset of the set of locations, the first subset including a first plurality of locations, and the controller is configured to project a series of images using the digital projector, each of the series of images having the vertical slit positioned at the first depth of focus onto the corresponding location of the first plurality of locations.

8. The medical device according to claim 7, wherein, The first plurality of positions includes a first position having a first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the lighting system, and a first image in the series of images includes a vertical slit positioned to be projected onto the first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the lighting system, and wherein the first plurality of positions includes a second position having a second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the lighting system, the second lateral position being offset from the first lateral position, and a second image in the series of images includes the vertical slit positioned to be projected onto the second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the lighting system.

9. The medical device according to claim 6, wherein, The test pattern has a first color value in the first image and a second color value in the second image, the second color value being different from the first color value.

10. The medical device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, The test pattern also includes one or more of the following: nasal and temple side indicators of the projected image; patient name; and timestamp.

11. The medical device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein, The test pattern also includes a watermark.

12. The medical device according to any one of claims 5, 6, and 9 to 11, wherein, The test pattern includes vertical cracks.

13. The medical device according to any one of claims 5, 6, and 9 to 11, wherein, The test pattern includes multiple cracks, including a first crack and a second crack spaced apart from the first crack.

14. The medical device according to claim 12, wherein, The vertical crack is focused at a first depth of focus among the plurality of depths of focus for a first subset of the set of locations, the first subset including a first plurality of locations.

15. The medical device according to claim 14, wherein, The first plurality of positions includes a first position having a first lateral position relative to the optical axis of the lighting system, and a second position having a second lateral position relative to the optical axis of the lighting system, wherein the second lateral position is offset from the first lateral position.

16. The medical device according to claim 12, wherein, The lighting system is focused at a first depth of focus and a first lateral position off the optical axis of the lighting system for a first position in the set of positions, and is focused at a second depth of focus and a second lateral position off the optical axis of the lighting system for a second position in the set of positions, wherein the second depth of focus is off the first depth of focus and the second lateral position is off the first lateral position.

17. The medical device according to claim 16, wherein, The illumination system is focused on the third position of the set of positions at the second depth of focus and at a third lateral position offset from the optical axis of the illumination system, the third lateral position being offset from the second lateral position.

18. The medical device according to claim 17, wherein, The observation system is focused at a first depth of focus along the optical axis of the observation system for the first position in the set of positions, and is focused at a second depth of focus for the second position in the set of positions and the third position in the set of positions.

19. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

20. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a second tunable lens.

21. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, The at least one source generates one of a halo and a partial halo, and the controller is further configured to align one of the halo and the partial halo to the limbus of the patient's eye.

22. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

23. The medical device according to claim 22, wherein, The controller determines the movement of the eye during the examination based on images captured by the observation system.

24. The medical device according to any one of claims 22 and 23, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the direction and magnitude of the eye's movement and to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

25. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine blinking of the eye during the examination.

26. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: (a) Adjusting the first adjustable optical component to project a first image from the digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) Adjusting the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a first image of the first vertical crack at the first focal depth; (d) Adjust the first adjustable optical component to project the first image from the digital projector of the lighting system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including the first vertical slit; (e) Adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a second image of the first vertical crack at the second focal depth.

27. The medical device according to claim 26, wherein, When the controller executes (a) through (f), each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

28. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: (a) Adjusting the first adjustable optical component to project a first image from the digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) Adjusting the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a first image of the first vertical crack at the first focal depth; (d) Adjust the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from the digital projector of the lighting system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a second vertical slit offset from the first vertical slit in the first image; (e) Adjusting the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a second image of the second vertical crack at the second focal depth.

29. The medical device according to claim 28, wherein, When the controller executes (a) through (f), each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

30. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye; A movable base that can move relative to the patient support; An illumination system comprising at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm that supports the at least one source, the illumination system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base, the illumination system including a first adjustable optical component; An observation system comprising a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device, the observation system support arm being supported by a movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to an illumination system support arm, the observation system including a second adjustable optical assembly, wherein at least one of the first adjustable optical assembly of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical assembly of the observation system includes a tunable lens; as well as A controller, operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system, is configured to: The first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system are adjusted to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support; and Adjust the rotational position of the lighting system support arm relative to the observation system support arm.

31. The medical device according to claim 30, wherein, The first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

32. The medical device according to any one of claims 30 and 31, wherein, The second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

33. The medical device according to any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

34. The medical device according to claim 33, wherein, The controller determines the movement of the eye during the examination based on images captured by the observation system.

35. The medical device according to any one of claims 33 and 34, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the direction and magnitude of the eye's movement and to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

36. The medical device according to any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine blinking of the eye during the examination.

37. The medical device according to any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein, The controller is configured to: (a) Adjusting the first adjustable optical component to project a first image from the digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) Adjusting the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a first image of the first vertical crack at the first focal depth; (d) Adjust the first adjustable optical component to project the first image from the digital projector of the lighting system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the first image including the first vertical slit; (e) Adjust the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a second image of the first vertical crack at the second focal depth.

38. The medical device according to claim 37, wherein, When the controller executes (a) through (f), each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

39. The medical device according to any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein, The controller is configured to: (a) Adjusting the first adjustable optical component to project a first image from the digital projector of the illumination system toward the eye at a first depth of focus, the first image including a first vertical slit; (b) Adjusting the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the first depth of focus; (c) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a first image of the first vertical crack at the first focal depth; (d) Adjust the first adjustable optical component to project a second image from the digital projector of the lighting system toward the eye at a second depth of focus, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including a second vertical slit offset from the first vertical slit in the first image; (e) Adjusting the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to the second depth of focus; and (f) Using the first camera device of the observation system, capture a second image of the second vertical crack at the second focal depth.

40. The medical device according to claim 39, wherein, When the controller executes (a) through (f), each of the movable base, the illumination arm, and the observation arm remains stationary relative to the patient support.

41. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye; A movable base that can move relative to the patient support; An illumination system comprising at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm that supports the at least one source, the illumination system support arm being supported by the movable base and being rotatable relative to the movable base; An observation system comprising a plurality of camera devices each configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient’s eye, and at least one observation system support arm supporting the plurality of camera devices, the at least one observation system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm. A storage device operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of camera devices to receive and store a plurality of images of the eye imaged by the at least one of the plurality of camera devices; as well as A controller, operatively coupled to the storage device and configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the patient's eyes.

42. The medical device according to claim 41, wherein, The plurality of camera devices include: a first camera device and a first optical component, the first optical component having a first input optical axis and being positioned to provide a first image to the first camera device; and a second camera device and a second optical component, the second optical component having a second input optical axis and being positioned to provide a second image to the second camera device.

43. The medical device according to claim 41, wherein, The plurality of camera devices include: a first camera device and a first optical component, the first optical component having a first input optical axis and positioned to provide a first image to the first camera device; a second camera device and a second optical component, the second optical component having a second input optical axis and positioned to provide a second image to the second camera device; and a third camera device and a third optical component, the third optical component having a third input optical axis and positioned to provide a third image to the third camera device, the second camera device and the third camera device forming a stereo pair.

44. The medical device according to claim 42, wherein, Each of the first optical component and the second optical component is positioned to receive imaging light generated by the reflection of light from the patient's eye.

45. The medical device according to any one of claims 42 and 44, wherein, The second input optical axis intersects the first input optical axis at a position within the focal range of the first optical component and the focal range of the second optical component.

46. ​​The medical device according to claim 45, wherein, The first input optical axis and the second input optical axis are vertically aligned.

47. The medical device according to any one of claims 42 to 46, wherein, The illumination system is configured to provide a test pattern to illuminate a portion of the patient's eye, a first image of the first optical component captured by the first camera device includes a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern, a second image of the second optical component captured by the second camera device includes a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern, and the controller is configured to determine the alignment of the observation system relative to the eye based on the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern.

48. The medical device according to claim 47, wherein, When the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a first characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is aligned with the patient's eye.

49. The medical device according to any one of claims 47 and 48, wherein, When the first part of the reflection of the test pattern and the second part of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a second characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the patient's eye because it is too close to the patient's eye.

50. The medical device according to any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein, When the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern exhibit a third characteristic on the reflected test pattern, the controller is able to determine that the observation system is misaligned relative to the patient's eye because it is too far away from the patient's eye.

51. The medical device according to any one of claims 47 to 50, wherein, The test pattern is a line.

52. The medical device according to claim 51, wherein, The first characteristic corresponds to the alignment of a line in the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern with a line in the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

53. The medical device according to any one of claims 51 and 52, wherein, The second characteristic corresponds to the misalignment of the lines in the first part of the reflection of the test pattern with the lines in the second part of the reflection of the test pattern.

54. The medical device according to any one of claims 51 to 53, wherein, For each of the first characteristic, the second characteristic, and the third characteristic, the lines in the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and the lines in the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern are in a non-overlapping relationship.

55. The medical device according to any one of claims 41 to 54, wherein, The controller is configured to move the movable base relative to the patient support when the observation system is not aligned with the patient's eye.

56. The medical device according to any one of claims 47 to 55, further comprising: A display operatively coupled to the controller to display a first image of a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and a second image of a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern.

57. The medical device according to any one of claims 47 to 56, wherein, The lighting system includes a digital projector that generates the test pattern.

58. A method of aligning an imaging system with a patient's eye, the method comprising the steps of: A test pattern is projected onto the patient's eyes using an illumination system; The first portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye is received along a first direction using a first camera device; The second portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye is received by a second camera device along a second direction, wherein the first axis of the first direction and the second axis of the second direction intersect at an intersection point; as well as The first and second camera devices are moved relative to the patient's eyes until the first and second portions of the reflection of the test pattern have a first characteristic.

59. The method of claim 58, further comprising: The first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern are displayed on the monitor.

60. The method according to any one of claims 58 and 59, further comprising the step of: The lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device are supported on a movable base, such that the lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device move as a whole relative to the patient's eyes.

61. The method according to any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein, The test pattern includes an elongated feature with a vertical axis in a third direction, the third direction being perpendicular to a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction and passing through the intersection of the first axis and the second axis.

62. The method according to claim 61, wherein, The first part of the reflection of the test pattern includes a first part of the elongated feature of the test pattern, and the second part of the reflection of the test pattern includes a second part of the elongated feature of the test pattern.

63. The method according to claim 62, wherein, The first characteristic corresponds to the first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern aligned along a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction and in the plane.

64. The method according to claim 62, wherein, The first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction and in the plane, indicating that the first camera device and the second camera device are aligned with the surface of the cornea of ​​the patient's eye.

65. The method according to any one of claims 62 and 63, wherein, The first portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset along the fourth direction with a second characteristic, indicating that at least one of the first camera device and the second camera device is not aligned with the patient's eye.

66. The method according to any one of claims 58 to 65, wherein, The step of moving the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye until the first portion of the reflection of the test pattern and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have the first characteristic includes: receiving manual input to a support of at least one of the first camera device and the second camera device to reposition the at least one of the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye.

67. The method according to any one of claims 58 to 65, wherein, The step of moving the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye until the first portion and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have the first characteristic includes: actuating the positioning system of the first camera device and the second camera device using a movement command from the controller based on the fact that the first portion and the second portion of the reflection of the test pattern have characteristics different from the first characteristic.

68. The method according to any one of claims 58 to 67, wherein, The step of projecting the test pattern onto the patient's eyes using the illumination system includes: programming a digital projector to display the test pattern.

69. The method according to any one of claims 58 to 68, wherein, The test pattern is a horizontal line.

70. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: An illumination system configured to project a test pattern onto the patient's eyes; A first camera device is positioned to capture a first image of a first portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a first direction; A second camera device is positioned to capture a second image of a second portion of the reflection of the test pattern from the eye along a second direction; as well as A display configured to simultaneously display at least a first portion of the test pattern based on the first image and a second portion of the test pattern based on the second image, to provide an indication of the alignment status of the first and second camera devices relative to the patient's eyes.

71. The medical device according to claim 70, wherein, If the first portion of the test pattern on the display is aligned with the second portion of the test pattern, then the alignment of the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye is aligned.

72. The medical device according to any one of claims 70 and 71, wherein, If the first portion of the test pattern on the display is offset relative to the second portion of the test pattern, then the alignment of the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye is misaligned.

73. The medical device according to any one of claims 70 to 72, wherein, The test pattern includes an elongated feature with a vertical axis in the third direction.

74. The medical device according to claim 73, wherein, The third direction is perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

75. The medical device according to any one of claims 73 and 74, wherein, The first portion of the test pattern based on the first image includes the first portion of the elongated feature, and the second portion of the test pattern based on the second image includes the second portion of the elongated feature.

76. The medical device according to claim 75, wherein, When the first camera device and the second camera device are aligned with respect to the patient's eyes, the first portion and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are aligned along the third direction.

77. The medical device according to any one of claims 75 and 76, wherein, When the alignment of the first camera device and the second camera device relative to the patient's eye is misaligned, the first portion and the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern are offset in a fourth direction perpendicular to the third direction.

78. The medical device according to claim 77, wherein, When the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern shifts to the first side of the first portion of the elongated feature, the first camera device and the second camera device are too close to the patient's eye, and when the second portion of the elongated feature of the test pattern shifts to the second side of the first portion of the elongated feature, the first camera device and the second camera device are too far away from the patient's eye, with the second side opposite to the first side.

79. The medical device according to any one of claims 72 to 78, further comprising: A movable base supporting the lighting system, the first camera device, and the second camera device.

80. The medical device according to any one of claims 70 to 79, wherein, The lighting system includes a digital projector programmed to display the test pattern projected by the optical system of the lighting system.

81. The medical device according to any one of claims 70 to 80, wherein, The test pattern is a horizontal line.

82. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye; A movable base that can move relative to the patient support; An illumination system comprising a digital projector that generates at least one image to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm that supports at least one source, the illumination system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base, the illumination system including a first adjustable optical component; An observation system comprising a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device, the observation system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm, the observation system including a second adjustable optical component; as well as A controller, operatively coupled to the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system, is configured to: When the movable base remains stationary relative to the patient support, the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system are adjusted to multiple depths of focus relative to the patient support, wherein a first subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a first profile, and a second subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a second profile offset relative to the first profile, and wherein the digital projector generates a first image with a first vertical slit for the first depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the first depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus, and the digital projector generates a second image with a second vertical slit for the second depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the second depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus, the second vertical slit offset relative to the position of the first vertical slit in the first image.

83. The medical device according to claim 82, wherein, The first contour has a first shape, and the second contour has a second shape, which is different from the first shape.

84. The medical device according to claim 83, wherein, The second shape is flatter than the first shape.

85. The medical device according to any one of claims 82 to 84, wherein, The first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

86. The medical device according to any one of claims 82 to 85, wherein, The second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

87. The medical device according to any one of claims 82 to 86, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

88. The medical device according to claim 87, wherein, The controller determines the movement of the eye during the examination based on images captured by the observation system.

89. The medical device according to any one of claims 87 and 88, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the direction and magnitude of the eye's movement and to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

90. The medical device according to any one of claims 82 to 89, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine blinking of the eye during the examination.

91. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye; A movable base that can move relative to the patient support; An illumination system comprising at least one source that generates light to illuminate the eye and an illumination system support arm that supports the at least one source, the illumination system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base, the at least one source generating one of a halo and a partial halo; as well as An observation system comprising a first imaging device configured to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the patient's eye, and an observation system support arm supporting the first imaging device, the observation system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base and rotatable relative to the illumination system support arm.

92. The medical device according to claim 91, further comprising: A controller operatively coupled to the at least one source, the controller being configured to: Align one of the halo and the partial halo to the limbus.

93. The medical device according to any one of claims 91 and 92, wherein, The lighting system includes a first adjustable optical component.

94. The medical device according to any one of claims 91 to 93, wherein, The observation system includes a second adjustable optical component.

95. The medical device according to any one of claims 91 to 94, wherein, The at least one source is a digital projector.

96. A medical device for imaging at least a portion of a patient's eye, the medical device comprising: An illumination system comprising a digital projector that generates at least one image to illuminate the eye and a first adjustable optical component that projects the at least one image toward the eye; An observation system comprising: a second adjustable optical component positioned to receive imaging light generated by reflection of light from the eye as the illumination system projects the at least one image toward the patient's eye; and a first camera configured to receive the imaging light from the second adjustable optical component, the illumination system and the observation system being positioned in a first spatial configuration, wherein the optical axes of the first adjustable optical component and the second optical component intersect at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; and A controller operatively coupled to the lighting system and the observation system, the controller being configured to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the lighting system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to a plurality of depths of focus relative to the eye when the lighting system and the observation system are in the first spatial configuration.

97. The medical device according to claim 96, wherein, The at least one image includes a test pattern.

98. The medical device according to claim 97, wherein, The test pattern includes a vertical crack, and in a first image of the at least one image, the vertical crack is in a first lateral position, and in a second image of the at least one image, the vertical crack is in a second lateral position, the second lateral position in the second image of the at least one image being spaced apart from the first lateral position in the first image.

99. The medical device according to claim 98, wherein, When the first image in the at least one image is generated by the digital projector, the controller focuses the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system at a first depth of focus among the plurality of depths of focus, so as to focus the vertical slit in the first lateral position on the cornea at a first position offset from the vertex of the cornea, and when the second image in the at least one image is generated by the digital projector, the controller focuses the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system at a second depth of focus among the plurality of depths of focus, so as to focus the vertical slit in the second lateral position on the cornea at a second position offset from the vertex of the cornea, the second position on the cornea being offset from the first position on the cornea.

100. The medical device according to claim 99, wherein, When the first image in the at least one image is generated by the digital projector, the controller also focuses the second adjustable optical component of the observation system at the first depth of focus among the plurality of depths of focus, so as to focus the vertical slit in the first lateral position on the cornea at the first position offset from the vertex of the cornea, and when the second image in the at least one image is generated by the digital projector, the controller also focuses the second adjustable optical component of the observation system at the second depth of focus among the plurality of depths of focus, so as to focus the vertical slit in the second lateral position on the cornea at the second position offset from the vertex of the cornea.

101. The medical device according to claim 98, wherein, The controller is configured to, when the illumination system and the observation system are in the first spatial configuration, adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system to multiple depths of focus relative to the apex of the cornea, wherein a first subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a first contour, and a second subset of the multiple depths of focus is part of a second contour offset relative to the first contour, and wherein the digital projector generates a first image having the vertical slit in the first lateral position for the first depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus of the first contour and the first depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus of the second contour, and the digital projector generates a second image having the vertical slit in the second lateral position for the second depth of focus in the first subset of the multiple depths of focus and the second depth of focus in the second subset of the multiple depths of focus.

102. The medical device according to claim 101, wherein, The first contour has a first shape, and the second contour has a second shape, which is different from the first shape.

103. The medical device according to claim 102, wherein, The second shape is flatter than the first shape.

104. The medical device according to any one of claims 96 to 103, wherein, The first adjustable optical component of the lighting system includes a first tunable lens.

105. The medical device according to any one of claims 96 to 104, wherein, The second adjustable optical component of the observation system includes a second tunable lens.

106. The medical device according to claim 97, wherein, The test pattern has a first color value in the first image and a second color value in the second image, the second color value being different from the first color value.

107. The medical device according to any one of claims 97 to 106, wherein, The test pattern also includes one or more of the following: nasal and temple side indicators of the projected image; patient name; and timestamp.

108. The medical device according to any one of claims 97 to 107, wherein, The test pattern also includes a watermark.

109. The medical device according to claim 97, wherein, The test pattern includes multiple cracks, including a first crack and a second crack spaced apart from the first crack.

110. The medical device according to any one of claims 96 to 109, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the movement of the eye during the examination.

111. The medical device according to claim 110, wherein, The controller determines the movement of the eye during the examination based on images captured by the observation system.

112. The medical device according to any one of claims 110 and 111, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the direction and magnitude of the eye's movement and to adjust the first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the second adjustable optical system of the observation system.

113. The medical device according to any one of claims 96 to 112, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine blinking of the eye during the examination.

114. The medical device according to any one of claims 96 to 113, further comprising: The base, the lighting system is coupled to the base, and the observation system is coupled to the base.

115. The medical device according to claim 114, wherein, The lighting system is movable relative to the base.

116. The medical device according to any one of claims 114 and 115, wherein, The lighting system is movable relative to the observation system.

117. The medical device according to claim 116, wherein, The lighting system is capable of rotating about a first rotation axis relative to the base.

118. The medical device according to claim 117, wherein, The lighting system includes a lighting system support arm that supports the at least one source.

119. The medical device according to any one of claims 117 and 118, wherein, The observation system is capable of rotating about the first rotation axis relative to the base.

120. The medical device according to claim 119, wherein, The observation system includes an observation system support arm that supports the first camera device.

121. The medical device according to claim 116, further comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye, wherein, The base is a movable base that can move relative to the patient support. The lighting system further includes a lighting system support arm supporting the at least one source, the lighting system support arm being supported by the movable base and rotatable relative to the movable base, and The observation system further includes an observation system support arm that supports the first camera device. The observation system support arm is supported by the movable base and is rotatable relative to the movable base and is rotatable relative to the lighting system support arm.

122. The medical device according to any one of claims 114 to 120, further comprising: A patient support suitable for positioning the patient's eye, wherein the base is a movable base capable of moving relative to the patient support.

123. A method for examining a patient's eyes, the method comprising the following steps: The illumination system and the observation system are positioned in a first spatial configuration relative to the eye, the first spatial configuration having the optical axis of a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the optical axis of a second optical component of the observation system intersecting at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; as well as When the lighting system and the observation system are maintained in the first spatial configuration, the following steps are performed: (a) Projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye onto a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optical component, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position. (b) Receiving light reflected from the eye in projection step (a) via the second adjustable optical component and using the first imaging device, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the first depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye. (c) Projecting the first image from the digital projector toward the eye using the first adjustable optical component onto a second focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye, the second focal depth being different from the first focal depth, the first image including the vertical slit in the first lateral position, and (d) Receiving light reflected from the eye in projection step (c) by means of the second adjustable optical component and the first camera device, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the second depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye.

124. A method for examining a patient's eyes, the method comprising the following steps: The illumination system and the observation system are positioned in a first spatial configuration relative to the eye, the first spatial configuration having the optical axis of a first adjustable optical component of the illumination system and the optical axis of a second optical component of the observation system intersecting at the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye; as well as When the lighting system and the observation system are maintained in the first spatial configuration, the following steps are performed: (a) Projecting a first image from a digital projector toward the eye onto a first focal depth relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye using the first adjustable optical component, the first image including a vertical slit in a first lateral position. (b) Receiving light reflected from the eye in projection step (a) via the second adjustable optical component and using the first imaging device, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the first depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye. (c) Projecting a second image from the digital projector toward the eye using the first adjustable optical component onto the eye at a second depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye, the second depth of focus being different from the first depth of focus, the second image including the vertical slit in a second lateral position offset from the first lateral position, and (d) Receiving light reflected from the eye in projection step (c) by means of the second adjustable optical component and the first camera device, wherein the second adjustable optical component is focused at the second depth of focus relative to the apex of the cornea of ​​the eye.

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