Disposable cap for an eye imaging apparatus and related methods

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a disposable cap for an eye imaging apparatus with an optical window and related methods. The disposable cap can comprise an optically transparent window cover, a ridge, a side wall and a locking element. The window cover can comprise a convex back surface to match a concave shape of the optical window. The ridge of the disposable cap can extend distally and radially outward from the window cover and the side wall can extend proximally and radially outwardly from the ridge. The locking element can comprise one or more radially inward projections and one or more radially outward releasing tabs. A disposable packaging shell of the disposable cap also disclosed. Disclosed herein is also a plug-in disposable system comprising the disposable cap and the disposable packaging shell, configured to enable the disposable cap to be attached to and detached from the eye imaging apparatus.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. application titled, “A DISPOSABLE CAP FOR AN EYE IMAGING APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS,” filed Jan. 26, 2016, and having Ser. No. 15 / 007,101, which claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional application titled, “A DISPOSABLE CAP FOR AN EYE IMAGING APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS,” filed Jan. 26, 2015, and having Ser. No. 62 / 107,993. The subject matter of these related applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE[0002]All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference, including: U.S. Pat. No. 9,155,466, titled “EYE IMAGING APPARATUS WITH A WIDE FIELD OF VIEW AND RELATED METHODS”, filed on Feb. 4, 2015, which is a continua...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a disposable cap for an eye imaging apparatus that can be easily attached and detached from the apparatus. The cap has an optical window cover that matches the contour of the apparatus, and a locking element that securely attaches the cap to the apparatus. The cap can be used with different eye imaging apparatuses and helps to prevent cross-contamination. The cap can also be used with a disposable packaging shell for easy handling and secure attachment to the apparatus. The technical effects of this invention include improved optical performance, reduced movement of the cap, and prevention of cross-contamination.

Problems solved by technology

An eye imaging apparatus with an optical window in direct contact with a cornea of an eye of the patients can potentially cause cross-contamination among patients.

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