Ophthalmic device and ophthalmic system

Abstract

An ophthalmic apparatus includes an objective lens, an illumination optical system, a mounting portion, a photographing optical system, a communication portion, and a control portion. The illumination optical system generates illumination light using light from a light source and illuminates an eye to be examined with the illumination light by means of the objective lens. The mounting portion is configured to be able to mount an external apparatus provided with a sensor in a manner such that the sensor is disposed in a photographing light path. The photographing optical system guides return light of the illumination light from the eye to be examined to the photographing light path. The communication portion has a communication function with the external apparatus. The control portion controls the illumination optical system and controls the sensor by means of the communication portion in a manner synchronized with the control of the illumination optical system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to ophthalmic devices and ophthalmic systems. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, ophthalmic devices have been used for screening examinations. There is also a desire to apply these devices to self-diagnosis, with the aim of further miniaturization and weight reduction. Several technical proposals have been put forward regarding such ophthalmic devices.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a portable ophthalmic device that can easily acquire images of the examined eye by using a portable device with a shooting function.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 2 discloses an ophthalmic device configured to pattern illuminate the examined eye with slit light and detect the return light of the slit light using a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. This ophthalmic device, by adjusting the illumination pattern and the light-receiving timing of the CMOS image sensor, can acquire high-quality images of the examined eye with a simple configuration, unaffected by unwanted light.

[0005] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent No. 7465049

[0006] Patent Document 2: U.S. Patent No. 7831106 Summary of the Invention

[0007] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, the structure of the ophthalmic device can be simplified by using the function of an external device to measure the eye being examined. In this case, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, the structure of the ophthalmic device can be further simplified by simultaneously controlling the illumination side and the light-receiving side (image-taking side).

[0008] However, in previous methods, it was impossible to control the external device and the ophthalmic device simultaneously, and further simplification of the ophthalmic device's structure was limited.

[0009] The present invention is made in view of the following circumstances, and its object is to provide a new technique for observing the examined eye with a simple configuration.

[0010] A first embodiment is an ophthalmic device comprising: an objective lens; an illumination optics system that generates illumination light using light from a light source and illuminates the eye being examined with the illumination light via the objective lens; a mounting unit configured to mount an external device having the sensor in such a way that the sensor is disposed in an imaging optical path; an imaging optics system that guides the return light of the illumination light from the eye being examined to the imaging optical path; a communication unit having a communication function with the external device; and a control unit that controls the illumination optics system and controls the sensor via the communication unit in a manner synchronized with the control of the illumination optics system.

[0011] A second embodiment is an ophthalmic device comprising: an objective lens; an illumination optical system that generates illumination light using light from a light source and illuminates the eye being examined with the illumination light via the objective lens; a mounting unit configured to mount an external device having the sensor in such a way that the sensor is disposed in an imaging optical path; an imaging optical system that guides the return light of the illumination light from the eye being examined to the imaging optical path; a communication unit having a communication function with the external device; and a control unit that receives control from the external device via the communication unit and at least controls the illumination optical system.

[0012] In a third embodiment, according to the first or second embodiment, the illumination optical system includes a light modulator configured to be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the imaging portion of the eye being examined, and to generate the illumination light by modulating light from the light source. The control unit controls the light modulator synchronously with the control of the sensor.

[0013] In a fourth embodiment, according to either the first or second embodiment, the illumination optical system includes: a slit having a slit-shaped opening, the slit-shaped opening being configured at a position substantially optically conjugate to the imaging portion of the eye being examined; an iris diaphragm configured between the light source and the slit, and being configured at a position substantially optically conjugate to the iris of the eye being examined; and a light scanner deflecting the illumination light passing through the opening, and being configured at a position substantially optically conjugate to the iris of the eye being examined, wherein the control unit controls the light scanner synchronously with the control of the sensor.

[0014] In a fifth embodiment, according to the fourth embodiment, the illumination optical system includes a first relay lens system disposed between the light scanner and the slit, wherein the rear focal position of the first relay lens system is approximately optically conjugate with the iris.

[0015] In a sixth embodiment, according to the fifth embodiment, the light scanner is positioned at or near the rear focal position.

[0016] In a seventh aspect of the embodiments, according to the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect, the illumination optical system includes a second relay lens system disposed between the slit and the iris diaphragm, the iris diaphragm being disposed at a front focal point position of the second relay lens system or in the vicinity thereof.

[0017] In an eighth aspect of the embodiments, according to any one of the fourth aspect to the seventh aspect, one or more opening portions through which the illumination light passes are formed in the iris diaphragm, so that a beam cross section of the illumination light and a beam cross section of the return light from the subject eye are separated at the cornea, the anterior surface of the lens, and the posterior surface of the lens of the subject eye.

[0018] In a ninth aspect of the embodiments, according to the eighth aspect, two or more opening portions are formed in the iris diaphragm, the two or more opening portions being formed to be linearly symmetrical with respect to a straight line passing through an optical axis of the illumination optical system and extending in a direction corresponding to a length direction of the opening portion formed in the slit.

[0019] In a tenth aspect of the embodiments, according to the eighth aspect or the ninth aspect, the opening portion is an arcuate shape, a direction of a chord of the arcuate shape being substantially parallel to the direction corresponding to the length direction of the opening portion formed in the slit.

[0020] An eleventh aspect of the embodiments, according to any one of the first aspect to the tenth aspect, the ophthalmic apparatus includes the light source.

[0021] In a twelfth aspect of the embodiments, according to any one of the first aspect to the tenth aspect, the external device includes a light source, and the mounting portion is configured to be capable of mounting the external device in a manner such that the light source is disposed in an optical path of the illumination optical system.

[0022] A thirteenth aspect of the embodiments, according to any one of the first aspect to the twelfth aspect, the ophthalmic apparatus includes a wavelength selection filter configured to be capable of being plugged in and out with respect to the optical path of the illumination optical system.

[0023] In a fourteenth aspect of the embodiments, according to any one of the first aspect to the thirteenth aspect, the external device is a portable telephone or a portable information terminal.

[0024] A fifteenth aspect of the embodiments is an ophthalmic system including the external device; and the ophthalmic apparatus according to any one of the first aspect to the fourteenth aspect.

[0025] Further, the configurations of the above-described aspects can be arbitrarily combined.

[0026] According to the present invention, a new technique for observing the examined eye with a simple configuration can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ophthalmic system according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the control system of the smartphone according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the ophthalmic system according to the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the ophthalmic system according to the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the ophthalmic system according to the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the ophthalmic system according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the optical system of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the optical system of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the optical system of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0037] Figure 9 This is an operational illustration of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0038] Figure 10 This is an operational illustration of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0039] Figure 11 This is an operational illustration of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the optical system of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0041] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the optical system of the ophthalmic device according to the first embodiment.

[0042] Figure 14 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a control system of an ophthalmic apparatus of a first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 15 FIG. 2 is an action explanatory diagram of the ophthalmic apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0044] Figure 16 FIG. 3 is an action explanatory diagram of the ophthalmic apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0045] Figure 17 FIG. 4 is an action explanatory diagram of the ophthalmic apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0046] Figure 18 FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an action example of the ophthalmic apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0047] Figure 19 FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an ophthalmic system of a second embodiment.

[0048] Figure 20 FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an ophthalmic system of a third embodiment.

[0049] Figure 21 FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an ophthalmic system of a fourth embodiment.

[0050] Figure 22 FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an ophthalmic system of a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] One example of an embodiment of an ophthalmic apparatus and an ophthalmic system of the present application will be explained in detail with reference to the drawings. Further, the contents of the documents recited in this specification can be appropriately cited as the contents of the following embodiments.

[0052] In the present specification, a "processor" refers to, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a programmable logic device (for example, a SPLD (Simple Programmable Logic Device), a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array)), or the like. The processor realizes the functions of the embodiments, for example, by reading and executing a program stored in a storage circuit or a storage device.

[0053] The ophthalmic system of the embodiment includes an external device and an ophthalmic device. The ophthalmic device is capable of wired communication or wireless communication with the external device. In the present specification, as an example of the wired communication, communication according to a predetermined communication standard such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, an Ethernet (registered trademark) standard, or the like is cited. In addition, as an example of the wireless communication, communication according to a predetermined communication standard such as a wireless USB standard, wireless LAN (Local Area Network) according to a Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity, registered trademark) standard or the like, communication according to a WAN (Wide Area Network), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or the like, infrared communication, optical communication, communication using an electromagnetic wave in a wavelength range from an ultraviolet region to a radio wave region (including a visible region), communication using a sound wave, or the like is cited. Furthermore, the ophthalmic system of the embodiment is not limited to the communication mode between the external device and the ophthalmic device.

[0054] The external device has at least a photographing function (light receiving function) in addition to a communication function. The ophthalmic device irradiates an examination eye with illumination light generated using light from a light source and guides return light of the illumination light from the examination eye to the external device. At this time, using the communication function between the external device and the ophthalmic device, the photographing by the external device is performed in synchronization with an illumination pattern (movement timing of the irradiation position of the illumination light) irradiated by the ophthalmic device.

[0055] In several embodiments, the external device has a lighting function (light source) and a photographing function in addition to the communication function. In this case, the ophthalmic device is configured to irradiate the examination eye with illumination light generated using light from the light source provided in the external device, and guide return light of the illumination light from the examination eye to the external device.

[0056] For example, the ophthalmic device moves the irradiation position (irradiation range) of the illumination light by deflecting the illumination light of a predetermined shape generated using light from the light source, while irradiating a predetermined site of the examination eye. Alternatively, for example, the ophthalmic device moves the irradiation position of the illumination light by performing light modulation on the illumination light generated using light from the light source, while irradiating a predetermined site of the examination eye.

[0057] The ophthalmic device guides the return light of the illumination light from the examination eye to the external device. The external device receives the return light incident by the ophthalmic device using an image sensor. The light-receiving result of the return light is read from the light-receiving element at the light-receiving position of the return light corresponding to the irradiation position of the illumination light in synchronization with the timing of the movement of the irradiation position of the illumination light (rolling shutter control).

[0058] In several embodiments, the ophthalmic device performs synchronous control of the movement of the irradiation position of the illumination light and the light-receiving operation of the image sensor in the external device. In several embodiments, the external device performs synchronous control of the movement of the irradiation position of the illumination light and the light-receiving operation of the image sensor performed by the ophthalmic device.

[0059] Such an external device can be any device having a photographing function and a communication function or any device having a lighting function, a photographing function, and a communication function. The external device has a portable telephone, a portable information terminal (Personal Digital Assistant: PDA), a digital camera, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a projector equipped with a camera, a smart phone, and the like. In addition, the external device can be a portable device.

[0060] In several embodiments, the predetermined site is the anterior segment or the posterior segment of the eye. The anterior segment of the eye has a cornea, an iris, a lens, a ciliary body, a zonule of Zinn, and the like. The posterior segment of the eye has a vitreous body, an ocular fundus or its vicinity (retina, choroid, sclera, and the like), and the like.

[0061] The control method of the ophthalmic device of the embodiment includes one or more steps for implementing the processing performed by the processor (computer) in the ophthalmic device of the embodiment. The program of the embodiment causes the processor to execute each step of the control method of the ophthalmic device of the embodiment.

[0062] Hereinafter, a case where the external device of the embodiment is a smartphone and mainly acquires an image of the fundus of the eye to be examined will be described. However, the configuration of the embodiment can be applied to an ophthalmic system including an external device other than a smartphone. In addition, the configuration of the embodiment can be applied to an ophthalmic system that acquires or measures an image other than an image of the fundus.

[0063] <First Embodiment>

[0064] Figure 1 A block diagram showing a configuration example of the ophthalmic system of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 1.

[0065] The ophthalmic system 1000 of the first embodiment includes a smartphone 500 and an ophthalmic device 1. The smartphone 500 has a communication function, an illumination function, and a photographing function. The ophthalmic device 1 relays illumination light generated using light from the smartphone 500 toward the fundus Ef of the eye to be examined E and relays return light of the illumination light from the fundus Ef toward the smartphone 500. The smartphone 500 detects the return light incident by means of the ophthalmic device 1.

[0066] The smartphone 500 includes a light source 510, an image sensor 520, and an imaging lens 521.

[0067] An exit opening (exit window) and an entrance opening (entrance window) are formed in the housing of the smartphone 500. Light from the light source 510 exits toward the outside of the housing through the exit opening. Light from the outside that has passed through the entrance opening is imaged on the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 520 through the imaging lens 521. In several embodiments, one or more lenses (optical elements) are provided in at least one of the exit opening and the entrance opening formed in the housing of the smartphone 500.

[0068] An attachment portion 90 for attaching the smartphone 500 is provided on the surface of the ophthalmic device 1. The attachment portion 90 is configured to be able to hold the smartphone 500 by a publicly known method. At this time, the attachment portion 90 is configured to be able to attach the smartphone 500 in a manner in which the image sensor 520 is disposed in a photographing optical path (an optical path of a photographing optical system 40 described later) and the light source 510 is disposed in an optical path of an illumination optical system of the ophthalmic device 1. The manner in which the smartphone 500 is attached to the ophthalmic device 1 by the attachment portion 90 includes fixing by screwing, fitting, or engagement, pressure contact of the smartphone 500 to the ophthalmic device 1 using elastic force or magnetic force, and the like.

[0069] In several embodiments, the mounting portion 90 is configured to be able to change the relative position of the smartphone 500 with respect to the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 in a state where the ophthalmic apparatus 1 is held. In several embodiments, the mounting portion 90 is configured to be able to change the relative position of the smartphone 500 with respect to the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 in a direction of an optical axis of the outgoing light of the light source 510 (an optical axis of light incident on the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 520) in a state where the ophthalmic apparatus 1 is held.

[0070] An entrance opening, an entrance / exit opening (entrance / exit window), and an exit opening are formed in the mounting portion 90 (and the housing of the ophthalmic apparatus 1). Light from the smartphone 500 passes through the entrance opening and enters the inside of the housing. The ophthalmic apparatus 1 generates slit-shaped illumination light using the light that has entered the inside of the housing through the entrance opening. The generated illumination light is guided to the fundus Ef of the examined eye E through the entrance / exit opening. The return light of the illumination light from the fundus Ef passes through the entrance / exit opening and enters the inside of the housing. The return light that has entered the inside of the housing exits toward the outside of the housing through the exit opening. In several embodiments, one or more lenses (optical elements) are provided in at least one of the entrance opening, the entrance / exit opening, and the exit opening formed in the mounting portion 90.

[0071] The ophthalmic apparatus 1 has an optical system described later and has a communication function. The optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 includes an iris diaphragm 21, a relay lens system RL1, a slit 22, a relay lens system RL2, a light scanner 30, a relay lens 41, a black dot plate 42, a relay lens 44, a pinhole mirror 45, an objective lens 46, and a focusing lens 47.

[0072] One or more opening portions are formed in the iris diaphragm 21. The one or more opening portions formed in the iris diaphragm 21 can be disposed at a position substantially optically conjugate with the iris (pupil) of the examined eye E. The iris diaphragm 21 is an optical element for pupil division of the illumination light and the return light thereof.

[0073] One or more opening portions in a slit shape are formed in the slit 22. The one or more opening portions formed in the slit 22 can be disposed at a position substantially optically conjugate with the photographing site (measurement site), that is, the fundus Ef of the examined eye E. The slit 22 is movable along the optical axis. The slit 22 is an optical element for generating slit-shaped illumination light.

[0074] The light scanner 30 deflects the slit-shaped illumination light one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally. The light scanner 30 (a deflection surface of the light scanner 30) can be disposed at a position substantially optically conjugate with the iris of the examined eye E. In several embodiments, the light scanner 30 deflects the slit-shaped illumination light in a one-dimensional direction corresponding to the short side direction of the slit.

[0075] The black dot plate 42 blocks unnecessary reflected light toward the light source side.

[0076] The pinhole mirror 45 couples the optical path of the illumination light and the optical path of the return light of the illumination light. A pinhole portion is formed on the pinhole mirror 45. The pinhole portion formed on the pinhole mirror 45 can be disposed at a position that is substantially optically conjugate with the iris of the examined eye E. The illumination light deflected by the light scanner 30 is reflected toward the objective lens 46 at a peripheral region of the pinhole portion of the pinhole mirror 45.

[0077] The illumination light reflected at the peripheral region of the pinhole portion formed on the pinhole mirror 45 is refracted by the objective lens 46 and irradiated to the examined eye E. The return light of the illumination light from the examined eye E passes through the objective lens 46, passes through the pinhole portion formed on the pinhole mirror 45, and is guided to the focusing lens 47.

[0078] The focusing lens 47 is movable along the optical axis. The return light that has passed through the pinhole portion formed on the pinhole mirror 45 is guided to the smartphone 500 by the focusing lens 47.

[0079] In several embodiments, as shown in Figure 1 , a wavelength selection filter 70 is pluggably provided in the optical path between the entrance opening and the iris diaphragm 21. The wavelength selection filter 70 is configured to pass light of a wavelength component corresponding to a predetermined wavelength selection characteristic, among the wavelength components of the light from the smartphone 500, by a known moving mechanism, manually or under control from a control section described later. As the wavelength component selected by the wavelength selection filter 70, there are a wavelength component in a wavelength range for performing fluorescein fluorescence photography, a wavelength component in a wavelength range for performing indocyanine green fluorescence photography, a wavelength component in a wavelength range for performing autofluorescence photography, a wavelength component in a wavelength range for performing photography with light of any color component in RGB, and the like.

[0080] In several embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 is provided with a condenser lens between the entrance opening and the iris diaphragm 21. In several embodiments, the objective lens 46 is movable along the optical axis.

[0081] Figure 2 A block diagram of a configuration example of a control system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 shown in Figure 1 is shown. In Figure 2 , the same reference numerals are attached to the same parts as Figure 1 , and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0082] As shown in Figure 2 , the control system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 is configured with a control section 100 at the center. The control section 100 controls each part of the ophthalmic apparatus 1, such as the slit 22, the light scanner 30, the focusing lens 47, the communication section 250, and the like.

[0083] The control unit 100 changes the position of the slit 22 on the optical axis by controlling the slit 22 (specifically, the moving mechanism that moves the slit 22). Thus, regardless of the condition of the examined eye E, such as refractive power and axial length, one or more openings formed in the slit 22 can be positioned at a position approximately optically conjugate with the fundus Ef.

[0084] The control unit 100 controls the deflection of the illumination light by controlling the light scanner 30. This controls the position of the illumination light on the fundus (Ef) and the timing of its movement.

[0085] The control unit 100 changes the position of the focusing lens 47 on the optical axis by controlling the focusing lens 47 (specifically, the moving mechanism that moves the focusing lens 47). Therefore, regardless of the state of the eye being examined E, the returned light can be imaged onto the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 520.

[0086] The communication unit 250 performs communication processing with the smartphone 500 according to a predetermined communication standard. The control unit 100 can send communication signals to the smartphone 500 by controlling the communication unit 250, and perform control on the smartphone 500 corresponding to the communication signals. In several embodiments, the control unit 100 can receive communication signals from the smartphone 500 by controlling the communication unit 250, and perform control on various parts of the ophthalmic device 1 corresponding to the communication signals.

[0087] The functions of the control unit 100 are implemented by the processor. That is, the control unit 100 reads the program stored in a storage unit (not shown) and performs the above-mentioned functions by executing the processing corresponding to the read program.

[0088] Figure 3 The middle shows Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating the configuration of a control system for a smartphone 500. Figure 3 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0089] like Figure 3 As shown, the control system of the smartphone 500 is centered around the control unit 550. The control unit 550 controls various parts of the smartphone 500, such as the light source 510, image sensor 520, image forming unit 560, and communication unit 580.

[0090] The control of the light source 510 includes switching the light source 510 on and off, and changing the light intensity. In several embodiments, the control unit 550 controls at least one of the position of the light source 510 and the orientation of the emitted light. In several embodiments, the control unit 550 controls the switching of the center wavelength of the emitted light from the light source 510.

[0091] The control of the image sensor 520 has a light-receiving control using the returning light with the rolling shutter method, a control of light-receiving rate, a control of light-receiving sensitivity, and the like.

[0092] The image forming section 560 forms an image of the eye E (fundus Ef) based on the light-receiving result of the returning light obtained by the image sensor 520. For example, the image forming section 560 forms an image of the fundus Ef based on the detection result of the returning light and a pixel position signal. The pixel position signal is generated, for example, from irradiation position information of the illumination light on the fundus Ef and position information of the light-receiving elements that receive the returning light in the image sensor 520. The irradiation position information can be determined, for example, from deflection control information of the light scanner 30.

[0093] The communication section 580 performs a communication process with the ophthalmic apparatus 1 in accordance with the same communication standard as the communication process performed by the communication section 250. The control section 550 can receive a communication signal from the ophthalmic apparatus 1 by controlling the communication section 580, and perform a control corresponding to the communication signal on each section of the smartphone 500. In several embodiments, the control section 550 can transmit a communication signal to the ophthalmic apparatus 1 by controlling the communication section 580, and perform a control corresponding to the communication signal on each section of the ophthalmic apparatus 1.

[0094] The functions of the control section 550 are realized by a processor. That is, the control section 550 reads a program stored in a storage section not shown, and realizes the above-described functions by performing a process corresponding to the read program.

[0095] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A explanatory diagram showing a first example of the operation of the ophthalmic system 1000 of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 12. Figure 4A The control flow of the ophthalmic system 1000 is schematically shown. In Figure 4A In Figure 2 or Figure 3 The same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the explanation is appropriately omitted. Figure 4B One example of the control sequence of each section of the ophthalmic system 1000 is shown.

[0096] In the first example of the operation, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 controls the smartphone 500 to acquire an image of the fundus Ef in the rolling shutter method.

[0097] First, a communication connection between the ophthalmic apparatus 1 and the smartphone 500 is established by a known method (SQ1). For example, the control section 100 controls the communication section 250 to establish a communication connection between the communication section 250 and the communication section 580 of the smartphone 500. Similarly, the control section 550 controls the communication section 580 to establish a communication connection between the communication section 580 and the communication section 250 of the ophthalmic apparatus 1.

[0098] If the photographing of the fundus Ef of the eye to be examined E is started, the control section 100 transmits a communication signal (SQ2) for synchronizing the movement control of the irradiation position of the illumination light with the light-reception control of the image sensor 520 to the smartphone 500 by controlling the communication section 250.

[0099] Next, the control section 100 deflects the deflection angle of the illumination light by a predetermined step by controlling the light scanner 30 (SQ3). On the other hand, the control section 550 of the smartphone 500 receives the communication signal from the ophthalmic apparatus 1 by controlling the communication section 580, and controls the image sensor 520 in correspondence with the received communication signal, whereby the light-reception control of the return light in the image sensor 520 is performed in synchronization with the deflection control of the light scanner 30 (SQ4).

[0100] After a predetermined time elapses, the control section 100 transmits a communication signal to the smartphone 500 by controlling the communication section 250 (SQ5), as in SQ2. Next, the control section 100 performs the deflection control of the illumination light by controlling the light scanner 30 (SQ6), as in SQ3. The control section 550 of the smartphone 500 receives the communication signal from the ophthalmic apparatus 1 and performs the light-reception control of the return light in the image sensor 520 in correspondence with the received communication signal and in synchronization with the deflection control of the light scanner 30 (SQ7), as in SQ4.

[0101] After that, the transmission of the communication signal by the control section 100 (SQ8), the deflection control by the control section 100 (SQ9), and the light-reception control by the control section 550 (SQ10) are repeatedly performed in this order.

[0102] In several embodiments, the deflection control by the control section 100 and the light-reception control by the control section 550 are repeatedly performed a plurality of times after the transmission of the communication signal by the control section 100 is performed.

[0103] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A explanatory diagram showing a second example of the operation of the ophthalmic system 1000 of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 12. Figure 5A The control flow of the ophthalmic system 1000 is schematically shown. In Figure 5A In FIG. 12, the same parts as Figure 2 or Figure 3 the same reference numerals are attached to the same parts, and the explanation is appropriately omitted. Figure 5B One example of the control sequence of each part of the ophthalmic system 1000 is shown.

[0104] In the second example of the operation, the smartphone 500 acquires the image of the fundus Ef in a rolling shutter manner by controlling the ophthalmic apparatus 1.

[0105] First, a communication connection between the ophthalmic apparatus 1 and the smartphone 500 is established by a known method (SQ21). For example, the control section 550 establishes a communication connection between the communication section 580 and the communication section 250 of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 by controlling the communication section 580. Likewise, the control section 100 establishes a communication connection between the communication section 250 and the communication section 580 of the smartphone 500 by controlling the communication section 250.

[0106] If the photographing of the fundus Ef of the examined eye E is started, the control section 550 transmits a communication signal for synchronizing the movement control of the irradiation position of the illumination light with the light-reception control by the image sensor 520 to the ophthalmic apparatus 1 by controlling the communication section 580 (SQ22).

[0107] Next, the control section 100 of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 receives the communication signal from the smartphone 500 by controlling the communication section 250, and performs the deflection control of the light scanner 30 in correspondence with the received communication signal (SQ23). The control section 550 performs the light-reception control of the return light in the image sensor 520 in synchronization with the deflection control of the light scanner 30 by controlling the image sensor 520 (SQ24).

[0108] Likewise in the first action example, thereafter, the transmission of the communication signal by the control section 550 (SQ25), the deflection control by the control section 100 (SQ26), and the light-reception control by the control section 550 (SQ27) are repeatedly performed in this order (SQ28 to SQ30).

[0109] In several embodiments, after the transmission of the communication signal by the control section 550 is performed, the deflection control by the control section 100 and the light-reception control by the control section 550 are repeatedly performed several times.

[0110] Hereinafter, the ophthalmic system 1000 that performs the above-described first action example will be specifically described.

[0111] [Configuration of the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1]

[0112] Figure 6 to Figure 13 A configuration example of the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 that constitutes the ophthalmic system 1000 of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 1, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 is shown as a part of the ophthalmic system 1000. Figure 6 The smartphone 500 that constitutes the ophthalmic system 1000 is shown in FIG. 2. Figure 7 A configuration example of the iris diaphragm 21 of the light scanner 30 is schematically shown when viewed from the direction of the optical axis O. Figure 6 A configuration example of the iris diaphragm 21 of the light scanner 30 is schematically shown when viewed from the direction of the optical axis O. Figure 8 A light beam cross-sectional shape of the illumination light is schematically shown. Figure 9 An explanatory view of the iris diaphragm 21 of the light scanner 30 is shown in FIG. 3. Figure 6 An explanatory view of the iris diaphragm 21 of the light scanner 30 is shown in FIG. 3. Figure 10Showing the view from the side or top Figure 6 Iris aperture 21 and Figure 6 Example of the composition of crack 22. Figure 11 Show Figure 6 Explanation diagram of light source 510. Figure 12 Show Figure 6 Example of the configuration of the relay lens system RL1. Figure 13 Show Figure 6 Example of the configuration of the relay lens system RL2. In Figure 12 and Figure 13 The diagram shows a relay lens system RL1 comprising three lenses, but the number of lenses constituting the relay lens system RL1 is not limited. Furthermore, in... Figure 13 The diagram illustrates a relay lens system RL2 comprising two lenses, but the number of lenses constituting the relay lens system RL2 is not limited. Figure 6 to Figure 13 In China, for the sake of Figure 1 The same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0113] First, let's describe the ophthalmic device 1.

[0114] The ophthalmic device 1 includes an illumination optics system 20, a light scanner 30, a projection optics system 35, and an imaging optics system 40. In several embodiments, the illumination optics system 20 includes at least one of the light scanner 30 and the projection optics system 35.

[0115] Light from the light source 510 of the smartphone 500 is reflected by the reflector 65 toward the illumination optical system 20 through the incident opening formed in the mounting part 90 of the ophthalmic device 1.

[0116] (Illumination Optical System 20)

[0117] The illumination optics system 20 uses light from the light source 510 reflected by the reflector 65 to generate slit-shaped illumination light. The illumination optics system 20 guides the generated illumination light to the light scanner 30.

[0118] The illumination optical system 20 includes an iris aperture 21, a slit 22, and relay lens systems RL1 and RL2. Relay lens system RL1 is positioned between the optical scanner 30 and the slit 22. Relay lens system RL2 is positioned between the iris aperture 21 and the slit 22.

[0119] As described above, the iris diaphragm 21 (specifically, the opening) can be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the iris (pupil) of the eye being examined, E. One or more openings are formed on the iris diaphragm 21 at positions away from the optical axis O.

[0120] The relay lens system RL2 includes one or more lenses that guide the illumination light that has passed through the opening portion formed in the iris diaphragm 21 to the slit 22.

[0121] As described above, the slit 22 (specifically, the opening portion) can be disposed at a position that is substantially optically conjugate with the fundus Ef of the eye E under examination. For example, on the slit 22, an opening portion is formed in a direction corresponding to a line direction (row direction) in which the image sensor 520 is read in a rolling shutter manner.

[0122] The relay lens system RL1 includes one or more lenses that guide the illumination light that has passed through the opening portion formed in the slit 22 to the light scanner 30.

[0123] As described above, in the illumination optical system 20, the light from the light source 510 that has passed through the entrance opening passes through the opening portion formed in the iris diaphragm 21, passes through the relay lens system RL2, becomes slit-shaped illumination light that has passed through the opening portion formed in the slit 22, and passes through the relay lens system RL1. The light that has passed through the relay lens system RL1 is guided to the light scanner 30.

[0124] (Light scanner 30)

[0125] As described above, the light scanner 30 is disposed at a position that is substantially optically conjugate with the iris of the eye E under examination. The light scanner 30 deflects the illumination light that has passed through the relay lens system RL1. Specifically, the light scanner 30 deflects the slit-shaped illumination light for illuminating a predetermined illumination range of the fundus Ef in turn while changing the deflection angle within a predetermined deflection angle range with the iris or the vicinity thereof of the eye E under examination as a scan center position, and guides it to the projection optical system 35. The light scanner 30 can deflect the illumination light in one dimension or two dimensions.

[0126] In the case of one-dimensional deflection, the light scanner 30 includes a galvanometer scanner that deflects the illumination light within a predetermined deflection angle range with a predetermined deflection direction as a reference. In the case of two-dimensional deflection, the light scanner 30 includes a first galvanometer scanner and a second galvanometer scanner. The first galvanometer scanner deflects the illumination light so that the irradiation position of the illumination light moves in a horizontal direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the photographing optical system 40 (illumination optical system 20). The second galvanometer scanner deflects the illumination light deflected by the first galvanometer scanner so that the irradiation position of the illumination light moves in a vertical direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the photographing optical system 40 (illumination optical system 20). As a scan method of moving the irradiation position of the illumination light by the light scanner 30, for example, there are a horizontal scan, a vertical scan, a cross scan, a radial scan, a circular scan, a concentric circular scan, a spiral scan, and the like.

[0127] (Projecting optical system 35)

[0128] The projection optical system 35 guides the illumination light deflected by the light scanner 30 to the pinhole mirror 45.

[0129] The projection optical system 35 includes a relay lens 41, a black dot plate 42, a mirror 43, and a relay lens 44. The relay lenses 41, 44 each include one or more lenses.

[0130] (The black dot plate 42)

[0131] The black dot plate 42 is disposed at a position substantially optically conjugate to a lens surface of the objective lens 46 or in the vicinity thereof. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the reflected light from the lens surface of the objective lens 46 from being guided to the light source 510 (the smartphone 500).

[0132] In such a projection optical system 35, the illumination light deflected by the light scanner 30 is transmitted through the relay lens 41, passes through the black dot plate 42, is reflected by the mirror 43, is transmitted through the relay lens 44, and is guided to the pinhole mirror 45.

[0133] (The photographing optical system 40)

[0134] The photographing optical system 40 guides the illumination light guided in the projection optical system 35 to the fundus Ef of the examined eye E, and guides the return light of the illumination light from the fundus Ef to the smartphone 500 (the image sensor 520).

[0135] In the photographing optical system 40, the optical path of the illumination light from the projection optical system 35 and the optical path of the return light of the illumination light from the fundus Ef are coupled. The pinhole mirror 45 is used as an optical path coupling member that couples these optical paths, whereby it is possible to split the illumination light and the return light pupil thereof.

[0136] The photographing optical system 40 includes the pinhole mirror 45, an objective lens 46, a focusing lens 47, and a relay lens 48. The relay lens 48 includes one or more lenses.

[0137] As described above, the hole portion is formed on the pinhole mirror 45. The hole portion is disposed on the optical axis of the photographing optical system 40. As described above, the hole portion of the pinhole mirror 45 is disposed at a position substantially optically conjugate to the iris of the examined eye E. The pinhole mirror 45 reflects the illumination light from the projection optical system 35 toward the objective lens 46 in the peripheral region of the hole portion. Such a pinhole mirror 45 functions as a photographing stop.

[0138] That is, the pinhole mirror 45 is configured to couple the optical path of the illumination optical system 20 (the projection optical system 35) and the optical path of the photographing optical system 40 disposed in the direction of the optical axis passing through the hole portion, and to guide the illumination light reflected in the peripheral region of the hole portion to the fundus Ef.

[0139] The focusing lens 47 can be moved along the optical axis of the imaging optical system 40 via a moving mechanism (not shown). The moving mechanism is controlled by the control unit 100 to move the focusing lens 47 along the optical axis. As a result, the reflected light from the aperture of the aperture lens 45 can be imaged onto the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 520 of the smartphone 500, depending on the state of the eye being examined, the illumination light.

[0140] In this imaging optical system 40, illumination light from the projection optical system 35 is reflected towards the objective lens 46 in the peripheral region of the aperture formed in the aperture lens 45. The illumination light reflected in the peripheral region of the aperture lens 45 is refracted by the objective lens 46 and enters the eye through the pupil of the examined eye E, illuminating the fundus Ef of the examined eye E.

[0141] The reflected light from the illumination light from the fundus Ef is refracted by the objective lens 46, passes through the aperture of the aperture lens 45, through the focusing lens 47, through the relay lens 48, and is guided to the imaging lens 521 of the smartphone 500 through the exit opening.

[0142] The following describes each part of the ophthalmic device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0143] (Iris apex 21)

[0144] First, the iris aperture 21 with an opening is described, which defines the incident position (incident shape) of the illumination light on the iris of the eye being examined, E.

[0145] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, by forming an opening in the iris aperture 21, when the center of the pupil of the examined eye E is positioned on the optical axis O, illumination light can be directed into the eye from a position offset from the center of the pupil (specifically, a position symmetrical about the point centered on the pupil center).

[0146] One or more openings are formed in the iris diaphragm 21 such that the beam cross-section of the illumination light (illumination beam cross-section) and the beam cross-section of the returning light from the examined eye E (fundus Ef) are separated at the reflection point in the path of the illumination light on the examined eye E. If the illumination beam cross-section and the imaging beam cross-section are separated at the aforementioned reflection point, the shape of the opening formed in the iris diaphragm is not limited. The reflecting points may include the cornea (anterior corneal surface, posterior corneal surface), the anterior lens surface, the posterior lens surface, etc.

[0147] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, openings 21A and 21B are formed on the iris aperture 21. The openings 21A and 21B are formed symmetrically with respect to the position passing through the optical axis O and extending in a direction corresponding to the length direction of the slit 22.

[0148] The opening portions 21A, 21B are each in a circular segment shape. A circular segment is a region surrounded by an arc of a circle or an ellipse and a chord of the arc. The direction of the chord of the circular segment shape is substantially parallel to a direction corresponding to the length direction of the opening portion of the slit 22.

[0149] In a case where the eye E under examination is illuminated using the iris diaphragm 21, as shown in Figure 8 , a light beam cross section is formed on the pupil of the eye E, for example.

[0150] In Figure 8 , light that has passed through the opening portions 21A, 21B of the iris diaphragm 21 is incident on the pupil, for example, in a manner to form light beam cross sections IR1, IR2. The light beam cross section IR1 is, for example, a light beam cross section of light that has passed through the opening portion 21A. The light beam cross section IR2 is, for example, a light beam cross section of light that has passed through the opening portion 21B.

[0151] Return light (photographing light) that is incident on the eye and is reflected by the fundus Ef forms a light beam cross section PR on the pupil, for example, and is guided to the photographing optical system 40.

[0152] At this time, the opening portions 21A, 21B are formed so as to separate the light beam cross sections IR1, IR2 of the illumination light and the light beam cross section PR of the photographing light.

[0153] The illumination light beam cross sections and the photographing light beam cross sections in each portion of the eye E under examination are formed as shown in Figure 9 . Figure 9 The footprints FP1 to FP3 of the light scanner 30 when deflected at predetermined deflection angles are schematically shown. The footprint FP1 indicates a light beam cross section on the corneal surface. The footprint FP2 indicates a light beam cross section on the anterior surface of the lens (the iris surface) (or the photographing diaphragm surface). The footprint FP3 indicates a light beam cross section on the posterior surface of the lens.

[0154] The anterior surface of the lens (the iris surface) (or the photographing diaphragm surface) is disposed at a position that is substantially optically conjugate with the iris diaphragm 21, and thus, as shown in the footprint FP2, the same illumination light beam cross sections IR12, IR22 and the photographing light beam cross section PR2 are formed as Figure 9 . The shapes of the illumination light beam cross sections IR12, IR22 are substantially the same as the shapes of the opening portions 21A, 21B of the iris diaphragm 21. The shape of the photographing light beam cross section PR2 is substantially the same as the shape of the photographing diaphragm (the opening portion formed in the pinhole mirror 45). As shown in the footprint FP2, the illumination light beam cross sections and the photographing light beam cross section are separated at the position that is substantially optically conjugate with the iris diaphragm 21.

[0155] At the corneal surface which is not optically conjugated with the iris diaphragm 21, the illumination beam section IR11, IR21 and the photographing beam section PR1 are enlarged in the direction corresponding to the length direction of the slit 22 (footprint FP1). On the other hand, the relative relationship between the illumination beam section IR11, IR21 and the photographing beam section PR1 in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22 does not change.

[0156] Likewise, at the posterior lens surface which is not optically conjugated with the iris diaphragm 21, the illumination beam section IR13, IR23 and the photographing beam section PR3 are enlarged in the direction corresponding to the length direction of the slit 22 (footprint FP3). On the other hand, the relative relationship between the illumination beam section IR13, IR23 and the photographing beam section PR3 in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22 does not change.

[0157] If the deflection angle of the illumination light is changed by the light scanner 30 at a position which is not optically conjugated with the iris diaphragm 21, the positions of the illumination beam section and the photographing beam section move in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22. Even if the deflection angle is changed, the relative relationship between the illumination beam section and the photographing beam section as shown by the footprints FP1, FP3 is maintained.

[0158] Thus, it is required that the opening portion 21A formed at the iris diaphragm 21 is formed so that the distance (distance in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22) dl between the lower end of the illumination beam section (beam section IR1) and the upper end of the photographing beam section (beam section PR) is equal to or more than a predetermined first distance, as shown in FIG. 6. Likewise, it is required that the opening portion 21B formed at the iris diaphragm 21 is formed so that the distance d2 between the upper end of the illumination beam section (beam section IR2) and the lower end of the photographing beam section (beam section PR) is equal to or more than a predetermined second distance, as shown in FIG. 7. Here, the first distance can be equal to the second distance. Further, it is required that the opening portions 21A, 21B formed at the iris diaphragm 21 are formed so that the distance d3 in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22 is equal to or more than a predetermined third distance, as shown in FIG. 8. Figure 8 Figure 8 Thus, it is required that the opening portion 21A formed at the iris diaphragm 21 is formed so that the distance (distance in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22) dl between the lower end of the illumination beam section (beam section IR1) and the upper end of the photographing beam section (beam section PR) is equal to or more than a predetermined first distance, as shown in FIG. 6. Likewise, it is required that the opening portion 21B formed at the iris diaphragm 21 is formed so that the distance d2 between the upper end of the illumination beam section (beam section IR2) and the lower end of the photographing beam section (beam section PR) is equal to or more than a predetermined second distance, as shown in FIG. 7. Here, the first distance can be equal to the second distance. Further, it is required that the opening portions 21A, 21B formed at the iris diaphragm 21 are formed so that the distance d3 in the direction corresponding to the short direction of the slit 22 is equal to or more than a predetermined third distance, as shown in FIG. 8. Figure 9

[0159] That is, the inner diameter shape of the opening portions 21A, 21B does not affect the shape of the illumination beam section and the shape of the photographing beam section.

[0160] As described above, the opening portions 21A, 21B are formed at the iris diaphragm 21 so that the illumination beam section and the photographing beam section are separated in the cornea, the anterior lens surface and the posterior lens surface of the examined eye E. Thus, it is possible to acquire a high-quality image of the fundus Ef with high contrast without being affected by unnecessary scattered light, with a simple configuration.

[0161] ​​In particular, by forming the shapes of the opening portions 21A, 21B as shown in Figure 7 the light quantity of the illumination light can be increased, and a higher-quality image can be obtained.

[0162] In several embodiments, as shown in Figure 10 the ophthalmic apparatus 1 includes an optical element 24 disposed between the light source 510 (formed in the entrance opening of the mounting portion 90 of the ophthalmic apparatus 1) and the iris diaphragm 21. The optical element 24 can be disposed at a position that is substantially optically conjugate with the iris of the examination eye E. The optical element 24 deflects the light from the light source 510 that has passed through the entrance opening. The optical element 24 deflects the illumination light so that the light quantity distribution in the direction in which the opening portion 21A (or the opening portion 21B) formed in the iris diaphragm 21 and the opening portion formed in the slit 22 are connected is maximized. As examples of such an optical element, there are prisms, microlens arrays, or Fresnel lenses, and the like. Figure 10 In the above, the optical element 24 is provided in each of the opening portions formed in the iris diaphragm 21, but the configuration can be such that one element is used to deflect the light that has passed through the opening portions 21A, 21B formed in the iris diaphragm 21.

[0163] In addition, by changing the relative positions between the light source 510 (or the entrance opening formed in the mounting portion 90 of the ophthalmic apparatus 1) and the opening portions formed in the iris diaphragm 21, the light quantity distribution of the light that has passed through the opening portions formed in the iris diaphragm 21 can be changed.

[0164] (Slit 22)

[0165] Next, the slit 22 in which the opening portion that defines the irradiation pattern of the illumination light on the fundus Ef of the examination eye E is formed is described.

[0166] The slit 22 can be moved in the optical axis direction of the illumination optical system 20 by a moving mechanism (described later as moving mechanism 22D). The moving mechanism is controlled by the control portion 100 to move the slit 22 in the optical axis direction. For example, the control portion 100 controls the moving mechanism in accordance with the state of the examination eye E. Thereby, the position of the slit 22 can be moved in accordance with the state (specifically, the refractive power, the shape of the fundus Ef) of the examination eye E.

[0167] In several embodiments, the slit 22 is configured so that at least one of the position and the shape of the opening portion can be changed without moving in the optical axis direction in accordance with the state of the examination eye E. The function of such a slit 22 is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal shutter.

[0168] (Intermediate lens system RL1)

[0169] In Figure 6In this case, the optical system is configured in accordance with the Badal principle. Specifically, the relay lens system RL1, the relay lenses 41, 44, and the objective lens 46 constitute a Badal optical system. Thereby, the size of the slit image on the fundus Ef can be made constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye E.

[0170] As shown in Fig. 1, the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a light source 10, a light scanning device 30, a slit 22, an iris diaphragm 21, a relay lens system RL1, a relay lens 41, a relay lens 42, an objective lens 46, and an image pickup device 50. Figure 12 As shown in Fig. 1, the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a light source 10, a light scanning device 30, a slit 22, an iris diaphragm 21, a relay lens system RL1, a relay lens 41, a relay lens 42, an objective lens 46, and an image pickup device 50.

[0171] That is, as described above, the light scanning device 30 disposed at a position substantially conjugate with the iris of the examined eye E is disposed at the back focal point position Fl of the relay lens system RL1 or in the vicinity thereof. Thus, in the case where the slit 22 moves in the optical axis direction in accordance with the refractive power of the examined eye E, the size of the slit image (image formed by light that has passed through the opening of the slit 22) projected on the fundus Ef does not change regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye E. This means that even if the slit 22 moves in the optical axis direction, the projection magnification of the slit image projected on the fundus Ef does not change.

[0172] As described above, according to the first embodiment, by disposing the light scanning device 30 at the back focal point position Fl of the relay lens system RL1 (or in the vicinity thereof), a Badal optical system is constituted by the relay lens system RL1, the relay lenses 41, 42, and the objective lens 46.

[0173] Thereby, the projection visual angle (projection magnification) of the slit image on the visual axis of the examined eye E (the length direction and the short side direction of the slit 22) can be made constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye E. As a result, the size of the slit image does not change regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye E, so it is possible to make the deflection operation speed of the light scanning device 30 constant, and it is possible to simplify the control of the light scanning device 30.

[0174] In addition, since the projection visual angle (projection magnification) of the slit image on the visual axis of the examined eye E is constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye E, it is possible to make the illuminance of the slit image on the fundus Ef constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye E.

[0175] Furthermore, in the case where the ophthalmic apparatus acquires an image at a predetermined photographing visual angle, since the projection magnification is constant as described above, the length in the length direction of the slit 22 provided in order to acquire a slit image of a predetermined size does not need to be provided with a margin.

[0176] (Relay lens system RL2)

[0177] In addition, as shown in Fig. 1, the relay lens system RL2 is disposed between the slit 22 and the iris diaphragm 21. Figure 6 In addition, as shown in Fig. 1, the relay lens system RL2 is disposed between the slit 22 and the iris diaphragm 21.

[0178] As Figure 13 shown, the iris diaphragm 21 is disposed at the front focal point position F2 of the relay lens system RL2 or in the vicinity thereof.

[0179] That is, the rear focal point position Fl of the relay lens system RLl is a position at which the iris diaphragm 21 is substantially optically conjugated, and the iris diaphragm 21 is disposed at the front focal point position F2 of the relay lens system RL2. Thus, the projection magnification from the iris diaphragm 21 to the light scanner 30 (disposed at the rear focal point position Fl) is determined by the focal distance fl of the relay lens system RLl and the focal distance f2 of the relay lens system RL2. At this time, the projection magnification is (fl / f2).

[0180] The ophthalmic apparatus of the embodiments needs to form an image of the iris diaphragm 21 on the iris of the examined eye E in a predetermined size. When the projection magnification from the iris of the examined eye E via the objective lens 46 to the light scanner 30 is a known projection magnification, it is only necessary to project an image of the iris diaphragm 21 in a predetermined size on the light scanner 30. At this time, the projection magnification from the iris diaphragm 21 to the light scanner 30 is determined by the focal distance fl of the relay lens system RLl and the focal distance f2 of the relay lens system RL2. Thus, by changing at least one of the focal distances fl, f2, it is possible to easily form an image of the iris diaphragm 21 on the iris of the examined eye E in a predetermined size. In several embodiments, the focal distance fl is fixed, and only the focal distance f2 is changed.

[0181] The focal distance fl is the composite focal distance of the relay lens system RLl. In several embodiments, the relay lens system RLl includes a plurality of lenses having different refractive powers, and the focal distance fl is changed by changing at least one of the lenses constituting the relay lens system RLl. In several embodiments, at least one of the lenses constituting the relay lens system RLl is a lens having a variable refractive power. The lens having a variable focal distance includes a liquid crystal lens, a liquid lens, an Alvarez lens, and the like. In the case where the focal distance fl is changed, the rear focal point position of the relay lens system RLl is also disposed at a position (pupil conjugate position) at which it is substantially optically conjugated with the iris of the examined eye E.

[0182] The focal distance f2 is the composite focal distance of the relay lens system RL2. In several embodiments, the relay lens system RL2 includes a plurality of lenses having different refractive powers, and the focal distance f2 is changed by changing at least one of the lenses constituting the relay lens system RL2. In several embodiments, at least one of the lenses constituting the relay lens system RL2 is a lens having a variable refractive power. In the case where the focal distance f2 is changed, the front focal point position of the relay lens system RL2 is also disposed at a position (pupil conjugate position) at which it is substantially optically conjugated with the iris of the examined eye E.

[0183] Further, in order to take an image of the fundus Ef, it is preferable to use a light source that emits light with high luminance. However, the size of the light emitting surface (light emitting area, output beam cross-sectional size) of a commonly available light source (mass-produced light source) is limited, and it is necessary to project the image of the iris diaphragm 21 on the optical scanner 30 at a projection magnification corresponding to the size of the light emitting surface of the light source.

[0184] According to this embodiment, by changing at least one of the focal distances fl, f2, it is possible to change the projection magnification from the iris diaphragm 21 to the optical scanner 30, and thus it is possible to project an image of the iris diaphragm 21 of an arbitrary size on the optical scanner 30 at a desired size. Thus, in the case where the size of the light emitting surface of the light source differs, by changing at least one of the focal distances fl, f2, it is possible to project an image of the iris diaphragm 21 of a desired size on the optical scanner 30, and the degree of freedom in the design of the optical system is improved. In particular, by fixing the focal distance fl and changing only the focal distance f2, it is possible to fix the amount of movement of the slit 22 with respect to the change in diopter number of the examined eye E (sensitivity of the movement of the slit 22 with respect to the change in diopter number), and it is possible to further improve the degree of freedom in the design of the optical system.

[0185] Further, according to the embodiment, it is possible to make the effective diameter of one or more lenses that constitute the relay lens system RL1 smaller.

[0186] The reason for this is that the slit 22, which is disposed at a position that is substantially optically conjugate with the fundus Ef of the examined eye E, is disposed between the optical scanner 30 and the iris diaphragm 21. The slit 22 is able to move in the optical axis direction in accordance with the diopter number of the examined eye E. Here, the projection magnification from the iris diaphragm 21 to the optical scanner 30 is determined by the first distance of the optical scanner 30 and the relay lens system RL1 and the second distance of the iris diaphragm 21 and the relay lens system RL1, and thus if the first distance is made shorter, the second distance also needs to be made shorter. However, it is necessary to ensure the movement space of the slit 22 in the optical axis direction while maintaining the conjugate relationship with the iris and the conjugate relationship with the fundus Ef, and thus the first distance is made longer and the effective diameter of the relay lens system RL1 is made larger. According to this embodiment, by providing the relay lens system RL2, even if the first distance is made shorter, it is possible to adjust the projection magnification using the relay lens system RL2. Thus, it is possible to ensure the movement space of the slit 22 in the optical axis direction, and it is possible to make the effective diameter of one or more lenses that constitute the relay lens system RL1 smaller while making the first distance shorter while maintaining the conjugate relationship with the iris and the conjugate relationship with the fundus Ef.

[0187] Further, since it is possible to make the effective diameter of one or more lenses that constitute the relay lens system RL1 smaller, it is possible to make the length of the optical system from the optical scanner 30 to the light source 510 smaller.

[0188] [Configuration of the control system of the ophthalmologic apparatus 1]

[0189] Figure 14 A block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 1. In Figure 14 Figure 2 or Figure 6 The same reference numerals are given to the same parts, and the explanation is appropriately omitted.

[0190] As shown in FIG. 1, the control system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 is configured with the control section 100 at the center. Further, the optical system of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 can include at least a part of the configuration of the control system. Figure 14 (Controlling Section 100)

[0191] The control section 100 controls each part of the ophthalmic apparatus 1. The control section 100 includes a main control section 101 and a storage section 102. The main control section 101 includes a processor, and performs processing according to a program stored in the storage section 102, thereby performing control processing of each part of the ophthalmic apparatus 1.

[0192] (Main Control Section 101)

[0193] The main control section 101 performs control of the illumination optical system 20, control of the light scanner 30, control of the photographing optical system 40, and control of the communication section 250.

[0194] The control of the illumination optical system 20 includes control of the moving mechanism 22D. The moving mechanism 22D moves the slit 22 in the optical axis direction of the illumination optical system 20. The main control section 101 controls the moving mechanism 22D in accordance with the state of the examined eye E, thereby being able to arrange the slit 22 at a position corresponding to the state of the examined eye E. As the state of the examined eye E, there are the shape of the fundus Ef, the diopter number, the axial length, and the like. The diopter number can be acquired, for example, from a known refractometer disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. S61-293430 or Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-259495. The axial length can be acquired from the measurement value of a known axial length measuring device or an optical coherence tomograph.

[0195] For example, the first control information in which the position of the slit 22 on the optical axis of the illumination optical system 20 is associated with the diopter number in advance is stored in the storage section 102. The main control section 101 refers to the first control information to determine the position of the slit 22 corresponding to the diopter number, and controls the moving mechanism 22D so that the slit 22 is arranged at the determined position.

[0196]

[0197] ​​Here, as the slit 22 moves, the light amount distribution of the light that passes through the opening portion formed in the slit 22 changes. At this time, the main control section 101 controls the control section 550 of the smartphone 500 via the communication section 250, and can change at least one of the position and the orientation of the light source 510.

[0198] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, depending on the state of the eye E to be examined, the position of the slit 22 moves from the position of the slit 22' before the movement. Thereby, the light amount distribution of the light that passes through the opening portion formed in the slit 22 changes. Figure 11

[0199] At this time, the main control section 101 controls the communication section 250 to transmit a communication signal to the smartphone 500, and thereby the control section 550 changes at least one of the position and the orientation of the light source 510. Thereby, the relative position of the light source 510 (the entrance opening, the smartphone 500) and the iris diaphragm 21 changes. By changing the relative position of the light source 510 and the opening portions 21A, 21B of the iris diaphragm 21, the light amount distribution of the light that passes through the opening portions 21A, 21B changes. Also, the light amount distribution of the light that passes through the opening portions 21A, 21B of the iris diaphragm 21 in the opening portion formed in the slit 22 changes.

[0200] In several embodiments, the main control section 101 can control the smartphone 500 to move the light source 510 based on the diopter number of the eye E to be examined as the state of the eye E to be examined, the position after the movement of the slit 22 (or the moving direction and the moving amount of the slit 22 with respect to the reference position).

[0201] For example, the second control information in which at least one of the position and the orientation of the light source 510 is associated with the diopter number and the position after the movement of the slit 22 (or the moving direction and the moving amount of the slit 22 with respect to the reference position) in advance is stored in the storage section 102. The main control section 101 refers to the second control information, determines at least one of the position and the orientation of the light source 510 corresponding to the diopter number or the position after the movement of the slit 22, and controls the smartphone 500 so that the light source 510 is disposed at the determined position or orientation. The main control section 101 transmits a communication signal to the smartphone 500 via the communication section 250, and thereby changes the position and the orientation of the light source 510 in the smartphone 500.

[0202] In several embodiments, the optical element 24 changes at least one of the position and the orientation with respect to the opening portion formed in the iris diaphragm 21. For example, the main control section 101 can change at least one of the position and the orientation by controlling the moving mechanism that moves the optical element 24.

[0203] In Figure 14 ​In the present embodiment, the control of the light scanner 30 includes control of the scanning range (scanning start position and scanning end position) and the scanning speed.

[0204] The control of the photographing optical system 40 includes control of the moving mechanism 47D. The moving mechanism 47D moves the focus lens 47 in the optical axis direction of the photographing optical system 40. The main control section 101 can control the moving mechanism 47D based on the analysis result of the image acquired using the image sensor 520. In addition, the main control section 101 can control the moving mechanism 47D based on the operation content of the user using the operation section not shown.

[0205] (Storage section 102)

[0206] The storage section 102 stores various computer programs and data. The computer programs include operation programs and control programs for controlling the ophthalmic apparatus 1.

[0207] In several embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 includes at least one of an operation section and a display section.

[0208] The operation section includes an operation device or an input device. The operation section includes buttons and switches (for example, operation handles, operation knobs, and the like) provided to the ophthalmic apparatus 1, operation devices (mice, keyboards, and the like). In addition, the operation section can include any operation device and input device such as a trackball, an operation panel, a switch, a button, a dial, and the like.

[0209] The display section displays various information (setting information of the optical element, and the like) of the ophthalmic apparatus 1. The display section is configured including a display device such as a flat panel display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). In addition, the display section can include various display devices such as a touch panel provided to the housing of the ophthalmic apparatus 1.

[0210] Further, the operation section and the display section do not need to be configured as separate devices. A device having a display function and an operation function integrated, such as a touch panel, can be used. In this case, the operation section is configured including the touch panel and a computer program. The operation content of the operation section is input to the control section 100 as an electric signal. In addition, operation and information input can be performed using a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed on the display section and the operation section. In several embodiments, the functions of the display section and the operation section are realized by a touch screen.

[0211] (Other configurations)

[0212] In several embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 further includes a fixation projection system. For example, the light path of the fixation projection system is in the optical path of the photographing optical system 40. Figure 1The optical system shown is coupled with the optical path of the photographing optical system 40. The fixation projection system is capable of presenting an internal fixation mark or an external fixation mark to the eye E under examination. In the case of presenting an internal fixation mark to the eye E under examination, the fixation projection system includes an LCD that displays an internal fixation mark under the control of the control section 100, and projects a fixation light beam output from the LCD onto the fundus of the eye E under examination. The LCD is configured to be capable of changing the display position of the fixation mark on its screen. By changing the display position of the fixation mark on the LCD, the projection position of the fixation mark on the fundus of the eye E under examination can be changed. With respect to the display position of the fixation mark on the LCD, the user can designate it using an unshown operation section.

[0213] In several embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 includes an alignment system. In several embodiments, the alignment system includes an XY alignment system and a Z alignment system. In order to align the apparatus optical system with the eye E under examination in a direction intersecting the optical axis of the apparatus optical system (objective lens 46), the XY alignment system is used. In order to align the apparatus optical system with the eye E under examination in the direction of the optical axis of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 (objective lens 46), the Z alignment system is used.

[0214] For example, the XY alignment system projects a bright spot (a bright spot in the infrared region or near-infrared region) onto the eye E under examination. The control section 100 acquires the anterior segment image of the eye E under examination on which the bright spot is projected, and calculates the displacement of the bright spot image drawn on the acquired anterior segment image from the alignment reference position. The control section 100 relatively moves the apparatus optical system and the eye E under examination in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction using a movement mechanism not shown so that the calculated displacement is eliminated.

[0215] For example, the Z alignment system projects alignment light in the infrared region or near-infrared region from a position other than the optical axis of the apparatus optical system, and receives the alignment light reflected by the anterior segment of the eye E under examination. The control section 100 determines the distance of the eye E under examination from the apparatus optical system based on the light-receiving position of the alignment light that varies depending on the distance of the eye E under examination from the apparatus optical system. The control section 100 relatively moves the apparatus optical system and the eye E under examination in the direction of the optical axis using a movement mechanism not shown so that the determined distance becomes the desired working distance.

[0216] In several embodiments, the alignment system is implemented by two or more anterior segment cameras positioned outside the optical axis of the device's optical system. For example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-248376, the control unit 100 analyzes the anterior segment image of the examined eye E, which is substantially simultaneously acquired by two or more anterior segment cameras, and determines the three-dimensional position of the examined eye E using a known triangulation method. The control unit 100 uses a movement mechanism (not shown) to move the device's optical system and the examined eye E three-dimensionally relative to each other, so that the optical axis of the device's optical system is substantially aligned with the axis of the examined eye E, and the distance between the device's optical system and the examined eye E becomes a predetermined working distance.

[0217] Next, we will explain the configuration example of a smartphone 500.

[0218] [The Composition of Smart Phone 500]

[0219] like Figure 6 As shown, with Figure 1 Similarly, the smartphone 500 includes a light source 510, an image sensor 520, and an imaging lens 521.

[0220] (Light source 510)

[0221] Light source 510 includes a visible light source that generates light in the visible light region. For example, light source 510 includes a white light source. Such light source 510 includes, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode), an LD (Laser Diode), a halogen lamp, or a xenon lamp. In several embodiments, light source 510 includes a light source capable of outputting light of each color component of RGB. In several embodiments, light source 510 includes a light source capable of switching between outputting light in the infrared region and light in the visible light region. Light source 510 is positioned at a location that is not optically conjugate to the fundus (Ef) and iris, respectively.

[0222] (Image sensor 520)

[0223] The image sensor 520 functions as a pixelated light receiver. The light-receiving surface (detection surface, imaging surface) of the image sensor 520 can be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the fundus Ef, which is the imaging site. As described above, the imaging lens 521 is configured to image the reflected light from the illumination light incident on the smartphone 500 onto the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 520.

[0224] The light-receiving results of the image sensor 520 are controlled by the control unit 100 and read in a rolling shutter mode. Such an image sensor 520 includes, for example, a CMOS image sensor, as described later.

[0225] [The structure of the control system for the Smart Phone 500]

[0226] As shown in FIG. 5, a control system of the smartphone 500 is configured with a control section 550 at the center. Figure 3

[0227] As described above, the control section 550 controls each part of the smartphone 500, such as the light source 510, the image sensor 520, the image forming section 560, the communication section 580, and the like.

[0228] The light-receiving control (rolling shutter control) of the returning light of the image sensor 520 includes reset control, exposure control, charge transfer control, output control, and the like, which will be described later. In addition, the time Tr required for the reset control, the time (exposure time) Te required for the exposure control, the time Tc required for the charge transfer control, the time Tout required for the output control, and the like can be changed.

[0229] Hereinafter, the rolling shutter control of the embodiment will be described.

[0230] As described above, the image sensor 520 includes a CMOS image sensor. In this case, the image sensor 520 includes a plurality of pixel (light-receiving element) groups arranged in a row direction and arranged in a column direction. Specifically, the image sensor 520 includes a plurality of pixels arranged two-dimensionally, a plurality of vertical signal lines, and a horizontal signal line. Each pixel includes a photodiode (light-receiving element) and a capacitor. The vertical signal line is provided for each pixel group in the column direction (vertical direction) orthogonal to the row direction (horizontal direction). Each vertical signal line is selectively electrically connected to the pixel group in which the charge corresponding to the light-receiving result is accumulated. The horizontal signal line is selectively electrically connected to the plurality of vertical signal lines. Each pixel accumulates the charge corresponding to the light-receiving result of the returning light, and the accumulated charge is read, for example, by each pixel group in the row direction in turn. For example, for each line in the row direction, a voltage corresponding to the charge accumulated in each pixel is supplied to the vertical signal line. The plurality of vertical signal lines is selectively electrically connected to the horizontal signal line. The reading operation of each line in the row direction described above is performed in the column direction in turn, whereby the light-receiving result of the plurality of pixels arranged two-dimensionally can be acquired.

[0231] By capturing (reading) the light-receiving result of the returning light of such an image sensor 520 in a rolling shutter manner, a light-receiving image corresponding to a desired virtual opening shape extending in the row direction is acquired. As for such control, for example, it is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8237835 and the like.

[0232] Figure 15 An action explanatory diagram of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 of the embodiment is shown in FIG. 6. Figure 15 The irradiation range IP of the slit-shaped illumination light irradiated to the fundus Ef and the virtual opening range OP on the light-receiving surface SR of the image sensor 520 are schematically shown. ​

[0233] For example, the control unit 100 of the ophthalmic device 1 uses the light scanner 30 to deflect the slit-shaped illumination light formed by the illumination optics system 20. As a result, in the fundus Ef, the illumination range IP of the slit-shaped illumination light moves sequentially in a direction orthogonal to the slit direction (e.g., the row direction, the horizontal direction) (e.g., the vertical direction).

[0234] On the light-receiving surface SR of the image sensor 520, the control unit 550 of the smartphone 500 changes the pixels of the read target in lines to set a virtual aperture range OP. Preferably, the aperture range OP is the light-receiving range IP′ of the illumination light returning on the light-receiving surface SR or a range larger than the light-receiving range IP′. The control unit 550 performs movement control of the aperture range OP synchronously with the movement control of the illumination range IP of the illumination light by the control unit 100. As a result, a high-quality image of the fundus Ef with strong contrast can be obtained with a simple configuration without being affected by unwanted scattered light.

[0235] exist Figure 16 and Figure 17 The diagram illustrates an example of the control timing for the rolling shutter mode of the image sensor 520. Figure 16 An example of timing for reading control of image sensor 520 is shown. Figure 17 Is with Figure 16 The diagram showing the movement control timing of the illumination range IP (illuminated range IP′) is overlaid with the read control timing. Figure 16 and Figure 17 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents the number of rows of the image sensor 520, and the vertical axis represents time.

[0236] In addition, Figure 16 and Figure 17 For ease of explanation, the image sensor 520 is described with 1920 rows, but the number of rows in the embodiment is not limited. Furthermore, in... Figure 17 For ease of explanation, let the slit width (width in the row direction) of the slit-shaped illumination light be the width of 40 rows.

[0237] Horizontal readout control includes reset control, exposure control, charge transfer control, and output control. Reset control initializes the accumulated charge of pixels in the horizontal direction. Exposure control applies light to the photodiode to cause the capacitor to accumulate charge corresponding to the amount of light received. Charge transfer control transfers the accumulated charge of pixels to the vertical signal lines. Output control outputs the accumulated charge of multiple vertical signal lines via the horizontal signal lines. That is, as... Figure 16As shown, the read time T of the amount of charge accumulated by the pixels in the row direction is the sum of the time Tr required for reset control, the time (exposure time) Te required for exposure control, the time Tc required for charge transfer control, and the time Tout required for output control.

[0238] In Figure 16 , by shifting the read start timing (the start timing of the time Tc) in units of rows, the light receiving result (the amount of charge) accumulated by the pixels in the desired range of the image sensor 520 is acquired. For example, in the case where the pixel range shown in Figure 16 is one frame of an image, the frame rate FR is uniquely determined.

[0239] In this embodiment, the irradiation position of the slit width of the illumination light on the fundus Ef is shifted in the direction corresponding to the column direction on the fundus Ef in order.

[0240] For example, as shown in Figure 17 , the irradiation position of the illumination light on the fundus Ef is shifted in units of rows in the direction corresponding to the column direction every predetermined shift time At. The exposure time Te of the pixels of the image sensor 520 is divided by the slit width of the illumination light (for example, 40), and the shift time At (At = Te / 40) is obtained. In synchronization with the movement timing of the irradiation position, the read start timing of each row of the pixels is delayed by the shift time At for each row and started. Thus, a high-quality image of the fundus Ef with strong contrast can be acquired in a short time by simple control.

[0241] In several embodiments, the image sensor 520 is constituted by one or more line sensors.

[0242] The control of the control section 550 of the smartphone 500 on the image forming section 560 includes control to form a light receiving image corresponding to an arbitrary opening range based on the light receiving result read from the image sensor 520 by the rolling shutter method.

[0243] The image forming section 560 forms a light receiving image corresponding to an arbitrary opening range based on the light receiving result read from the image sensor 520 by the rolling shutter method under the control from the control section 550. The image forming section 560 can sequentially form light receiving images corresponding to the opening ranges, and form an image of the eye E under examination from the plurality of light receiving images formed.

[0244] The image forming section 560 includes one or more processors, and realizes the above-described functions by processing in accordance with a program stored in a storage section or the like.

[0245] The relay lens system RL1 is an example of the "first relay lens system" of the embodiments. The relay lens system RL2 is an example of the "second relay lens system" of the embodiments. The image sensor 520 is an example of the "sensor" of the embodiments.

[0246] [Action]

[0247] Next, the action of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 will be described.

[0248] In Figure 18 A flowchart of an example of the action of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment is shown in FIG. 10. A computer program for realizing the processing shown in FIG. 11 is stored in the storage section 102. The main control section 101 acts in accordance with the computer program, and executes the processing shown in FIG. 11. Figure 18 Figure 18

[0249] Here, the alignment of the apparatus optical system with respect to the examined eye E is performed by an alignment system not shown, and the fixation target is projected to the fundus of the examined eye E so as to be guided to the desired fixation position by a fixation projection system not shown.

[0250] (S1: Acquire diopter number)

[0251] First, the main control section 101 acquires the diopter number of the examined eye E from an external ophthalmic measuring apparatus or electronic medical record.

[0252] (S2: Change position of slit)

[0253] Next, the main control section 101 changes the position of the slit 22 on the optical axis of the illumination optical system 20 in accordance with the diopter number of the examined eye E acquired in step S1.

[0254] Specifically, the main control section 101 refers to the first control information stored in the storage section 102 to determine the position of the slit 22 corresponding to the diopter number, and controls the moving mechanism 22D so that the slit 22 is disposed at the determined position.

[0255] (S3: Change position or orientation of light source)

[0256] Next, the main control section 101 changes at least one of the position and the orientation of the light source 510 of the smartphone 500 in accordance with the new position of the slit 22 whose position on the optical axis is changed in step S2.

[0257] ​​Specifically, the main control section 101 refers to the second control information stored in the storage section 102, and determines at least one of the position and the orientation of the light source 510 corresponding to the diopter number or the position after the movement of the slit 22. Then, the main control section 101 controls the communication section 250 to transmit a communication signal to the smartphone 500, and the control section 550 of the smartphone 500 controls the moving mechanism so that the light source 510 is disposed at the determined position or orientation.

[0258] (S4: Deflection control timing)

[0259] If the photographing of the fundus Ef of the examined eye E is started after the step S3, the main control section 101 determines whether or not it is a predetermined deflection control timing. For example, the main control section 101 sets, in advance, deflection control information including a deflection angle range and a deflection speed (deflection frequency) of the illumination light with respect to the light scanner 30. The main control section 101 determines the deflection control timing based on the deflection control information set in advance, with the photographing start timing as a reference.

[0260] If it is determined that it is not the deflection control timing (S4: No), the operation of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 repeats the step S4. If it is determined that it is the deflection control timing (S4: Yes), the operation of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 shifts to the step S5.

[0261] (S5: Control timing of light receiving side)

[0262] When it is determined that it is the deflection control timing in the step S4 (S4: Yes), the main control section 101 controls the communication section 250, thereby transmitting a communication signal for controlling the light receiving timing of the image sensor 520 to the smartphone 500.

[0263] The control section 550 of the smartphone 500 receives the communication signal from the ophthalmic apparatus 1, and performs the above-described light receiving control at the timing corresponding to the received communication signal.

[0264] (S6: Deflection control of light scanner)

[0265] Next, the main control section 101 controls the light scanner 30 so that the deflection angle of the deflection surface of the light scanner 30 is deflected by a predetermined angle step, in synchronization with the control timing of the light receiving side transmitted in the step S5.

[0266] Thereby, the illumination light is irradiated to the irradiation position on the fundus Ef corresponding to the deflection angle of the deflection surface of the light scanner 30. The control section 550 of the smartphone 500 acquires the light receiving result of the pixels of the opening range of the image sensor 520 corresponding to the irradiation range of the illumination light on the fundus Ef performed in the step S6, at the timing specified in the step S5.

[0267] (S7: Next irradiation position)

[0268] The main control section 101 determines whether there is an irradiation position to be irradiated with the illumination light next. The main control section 101 determines whether the irradiation range of the illumination light that moves sequentially covers the photographing range of the fundus Ef decided in advance, and thereby can determine whether there is an irradiation position to be irradiated with the illumination light next.

[0269] When it is determined that there is an irradiation position to be irradiated with the illumination light next (S7: Yes), the operation of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 shifts to Step S4. When it is determined that there is no irradiation position to be irradiated with the illumination light next (S7: No), the operation of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 ends (End).

[0270] By repeating Step S4 to Step S7, the slit-shaped illumination light is sequentially irradiated on the desired irradiation range on the fundus Ef, and the light-receiving result is read from the image sensor 520 in correspondence with the irradiation range of the illumination light.

[0271] In several embodiments, in Step S6, the illumination light is irradiated to the irradiation range set in a manner that a repeated region that is repeated with the adjacent irradiation range is provided. Thereby, by synthesizing the images in a manner that the repeated regions that are repeated with each other overlap, the fundus image of one frame is formed.

[0272] As explained above, according to the first embodiment, the ophthalmic apparatus 1 reads the light-receiving result from the image sensor 520 of the smartphone 500 as an external device and from the light-receiving element corresponding to the irradiation position of the illumination light in synchronization with the deflection control timing of the light scanner 30. Thereby, it is possible to simplify the constitution of the ophthalmic apparatus, and acquire a high-quality image of the examined eye E by the rolling shutter method.

[0273] <Second Embodiment>

[0274] The constitution of the ophthalmic apparatus and the ophthalmic system of the embodiments is not limited to the constitution explained in the first embodiment. For example, the ophthalmic apparatus of the embodiments can include a light source, and generate the illumination light using the light from the light source.

[0275] Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be explained focusing on the points different from the first embodiment.

[0276] In Figure 19 a constitutional example of the ophthalmic system of the second embodiment is shown. In Figure 19 the same parts as Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the explanation is omitted as appropriate.

[0277] The ophthalmic system 1000a of the second embodiment includes a smartphone 500a and an ophthalmic apparatus la.

[0278] The constitution of the smartphone 500a is the same as Figure 1The difference in the configuration of the smartphone 500 shown is that the light source 510 is not included. However, the smartphone 500a can include a light source that is not an execution target of the rolling shutter control of the embodiment. The configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus 1a is the same as that of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 except for the following points. Figure 1 The difference in the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 shown is that the light source 10 is included. The light source 10 implements the function of the light source 510.

[0279] Further, as with the first embodiment, the mounting portion 90a for mounting the smartphone 500a is provided on the surface of the ophthalmic apparatus 1a. The mounting portion 90a is configured to be able to hold the smartphone 500a by a publicly known method. The difference between the mounting portion 90a and the mounting portion 90 is that the entrance and exit openings are formed in the mounting portion 90a (and the housing of the ophthalmic apparatus 1a).

[0280] In the ophthalmic apparatus 1a, the light from the light source 10 is irradiated to the slit 22. The wavelength selection filter 70 is pluggably provided in the optical path between the slit 22 and the light source 10.

[0281] The difference between the operation of the ophthalmic system 1000a of the second embodiment and the operation of the ophthalmic system 1000 is that the control portion of the ophthalmic apparatus 1a performs the same control as the control performed by the control portion 550 of the smartphone 500 on the light source 510 in the first embodiment.

[0282] According to the second embodiment, as with the first embodiment, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus and acquire a high-quality image of the eye E in a rolling shutter manner.

[0283] <Third Embodiment>

[0284] In the ophthalmic apparatus of the above-described embodiments, the configuration in which the hole mirror is coupled in the optical path of the illumination light and the optical path of the return light is described as an example, but the configuration of the embodiments is not limited thereto. For example, the optical path of the illumination light and the optical path of the return light can be coupled using a beam splitter.

[0285] Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described focusing on the difference from the first embodiment.

[0286] In the ophthalmic apparatus of the above-described embodiments, the configuration in which the hole mirror is coupled in the optical path of the illumination light and the optical path of the return light is described as an example, but the configuration of the embodiments is not limited thereto. For example, the optical path of the illumination light and the optical path of the return light can be coupled using a beam splitter. Figure 20 A configuration example of the ophthalmic system of the third embodiment is shown in FIG. 10B. In FIG. 10B, the same reference numerals are attached to the same parts as in FIG. 10A, and the description will be appropriately omitted. Figure 20 Figure 1 In FIG. 10B, the same reference numerals are attached to the same parts as in FIG. 10A, and the description will be appropriately omitted.

[0287] The ophthalmic system 1000b of the third embodiment includes the smartphone 500 and the ophthalmic apparatus 1b.

[0288] The configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus 1b is the same as that of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 except for the following points. Figure 1 ​The ophthalmic apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is different from the ophthalmic apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 2 in that a beam splitter BS is provided instead of the pinhole mirror 45. The beam splitter BS reflects the illumination light generated using the light from the light source 510 toward the objective lens 46, and transmits the returning light of the illumination light from the objective lens 46 to the focusing lens 47.

[0289] The operation of the ophthalmic system 1000b of the third embodiment is the same as that of the ophthalmic system 1000, and thus detailed description is omitted.

[0290] According to the third embodiment, as with the first embodiment, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus and acquire a high-quality image of the eye E in a rolling shutter manner.

[0291] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0292] In the above-described embodiments, an example in which the fundus Ef is scanned by moving the position of irradiation of the slit-shaped illumination light on the fundus Ef using the light scanner 30 is described, but the configuration of the embodiments is not limited thereto. For example, the light from the light source can be modulated using a light modulator, whereby the fundus Ef is scanned.

[0293] Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0294] In the Figure 21 configuration example of the ophthalmic system of the fourth embodiment is illustrated. In the Figure 21 same parts as those of the Figure 1 same parts as those of the

[0295] The ophthalmic system 1000c of the fourth embodiment includes the smartphone 500 and an ophthalmic apparatus 1c.

[0296] The configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus 1c is different from that of the ophthalmic apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 in that a condenser lens 80 is provided instead of the iris diaphragm 21 and a light modulator 81 is provided instead of the light scanner 30. The light modulator 81 can be disposed at a position substantially optically conjugate with the imaging site (e.g., the fundus Ef) of the eye E. In several embodiments, as with the Figure 1 same parts as those of the Figure 1 In the ophthalmic apparatus 1c, at least one of the relay lens systems RL1, RL2 is provided, as with the

[0297] The condenser lens 80 condenses the light from the light source 510 that has passed through the entrance opening formed in the mounting portion 90 of the ophthalmic apparatus 1b. The light condensed by the condenser lens 80 is guided to the light modulator 81 as slit-shaped illumination light through the opening portion formed in the slit 22.

[0298] The light modulator 81 is controlled by the control section to modulate the slit-shaped illumination light formed using the slit 22. As the light modulator 81, there are a device using MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems), a digital mirror device (DMD), a spatial light modulator (SLM), and the like. The spatial light modulator changes the spatial distribution of light from a light source.

[0299] The action of the ophthalmic system 1000c of the fourth embodiment differs from the action of the ophthalmic system 1000 in that, instead of the light scanner 30, the light modulator 81 is controlled to scan the irradiation position of the illumination light over the fundus Ef, as in the first embodiment.

[0300] According to the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus and acquire a high-quality image of the subject eye E by the rolling shutter method.

[0301] Further, in the first to fourth embodiments, the case where the focus lens 47 is moved along the optical axis to adjust the focal point has been mainly described, but an optical element (lens or the like) other than the objective lens 46 or the focus lens 47 can be moved along the optical axis.

[0302] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus can store in advance setting information of the optical element corresponding to the smartphone having the image sensor. In this case, the ophthalmic apparatus can read the setting information corresponding to the smartphone before performing the photographing, and change the configuration of the optical element or the like based on the read setting information.

[0303] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus can store in advance setting information of the optical element corresponding to the subject eye (subject) and the smartphone having the image sensor. In this case, the ophthalmic apparatus can read the setting information corresponding to the subject eye and the smartphone before performing the photographing, and change the configuration of the optical element or the like based on the read setting information.

[0304] In addition, in the first, third, and fourth embodiments, the smartphone 500 can be configured to be able to change the relative position of the light source 510 with respect to the exit opening formed in the housing. In this case, the control section 550 changes the relative position of the light source 510 with respect to the exit opening by controlling the moving mechanism that relatively moves the light source 510 with respect to the exit opening.

[0305] Moreover, in the first to fourth embodiments, the smartphone can be configured to be able to change the relative position of the image sensor 520 with respect to the incident opening formed in the housing. In this case, the control section of the smartphone changes the relative position of the image sensor 520 with respect to the incident opening by controlling the moving mechanism that moves the image sensor 520 relatively with respect to the incident opening.

[0306] < Fifth Embodiment >

[0307] For example, the ophthalmic system using the above-described embodiments is configured to manage the image data of the examined eye E acquired by the ophthalmic system in a server connectable via a network.

[0308] In Figure 22 A configuration example of a network system to which the ophthalmic system of the above-described embodiments is applied is shown in FIG. 10. In Figure 22 Figure 1 The same reference numerals are attached to the same parts as those of

[0309] The network system of the fifth embodiment includes smartphones 500-1 to 500-N (N is an integer of 1 or more) and a server 600. The smartphones 500-1 to 500-N are communicably connected to the server 600 via a network NW. The network NW can be the same network as the communication network between the ophthalmic apparatus and the smartphone in the above-described embodiments or a different network.

[0310] The smartphones 500-1 to 500-N are the smartphones of any one of the first to fourth embodiments. The server 600 includes a control section and a storage section. The control section is able to acquire the image data acquired in any one of the smartphones 500-1 to 500-N via the network NW and store the acquired image data in the storage section.

[0311] The smartphones 500-1 to 500-N acquire the image data of the examined eye E using the ophthalmic apparatus of any one of the first to fourth embodiments, respectively. The smartphones 500-1 to 500-N respectively encrypt (anonymize) the acquired image data and transmit the encrypted image data to the server 600 via the network NW. The server 600 stores the image data transmitted from the smartphones 500-1 to 500-N, respectively.

[0312] ​In several embodiments, each smartphone encrypts the image data of the examined eye E using a predetermined public key pair. The server 600 or the information processing apparatus that has acquired the encrypted image data from the server 600 decrypts the image data of the examined eye E using a secret key corresponding to the public key. As an example of the predetermined public key, there are a public key that is created in advance in correspondence with the smartphone that has acquired the image data of the examined eye E, the ophthalmic apparatus for acquiring the image data of the examined eye E, the examined eye E (the examinee), the examiner, the photographing procedure (the examination procedure) that has acquired the image data of the examined eye E, or a combination of two or more of these. In this case, the secret key that is paired with the created public key is created at the same time.

[0313] In several embodiments, the encrypted image data of the examined eye E is stored in the server 600 in association with predetermined identification information. In this case, the server 600 or the information processing apparatus that has acquired the encrypted image data from the server 600 determines the secret key corresponding to the public key used for encrypting the image data on the basis of the identification information associated with the image data of the examined eye E, and decrypts the image data of the examined eye E using the determined secret key. For example, the above-described identification information is notified by means of a communication connection established between the server 600 and the ophthalmic apparatus. For example, the above-described identification information is specified in the server 600 using an operation section that is not shown. As an example of the predetermined identification information, there are first identification information of the smartphone that has acquired the image data of the examined eye E, second identification information of the ophthalmic apparatus for acquiring the image data of the examined eye E, third identification information for identifying the examined eye E (the examinee), fourth identification information for identifying the examiner, fifth identification information for identifying the photographing procedure (the examination procedure) that has acquired the image data of the examined eye E, or sixth identification information including a combination of two or more of the first to fifth identification information.

[0314] In several embodiments, the server 600 is configured to authenticate the information processing apparatus that accesses the image data of the examined eye E using any one of the above-described first to sixth identification information, and provide the requested image data to the authenticated information processing apparatus. In the case where the provided image data is encrypted using a public key as described above, the information processing apparatus can decrypt the image data provided from the server 600 using a secret key corresponding to the public key.

[0315] In several embodiments, the smartphone is configured to include an operation section and a display section, and display the acquired image of the examined eye E on the display section using the operation section. In several embodiments, the smartphone has a function of prohibiting display of the acquired image of the examined eye E and transmitting the image to the server 600.

[0316] As above, the image data of the eye E acquired using the smartphone can be managed within the server 600. In particular, the image data acquired in the smartphone can be appropriately protected.

[0317] [Effects]

[0318] An ophthalmic apparatus and an ophthalmic system according to an embodiment are described.

[0319] An ophthalmic apparatus (1, 1a, 1b, 1c) according to several embodiments includes an objective lens (46), an illumination optical system (20), a mounting portion (90, 90a), a photographing optical system (40), a communication portion (250), and a control portion (100, main control portion 101). The illumination optical system generates illumination light using light from a light source (510, 10) and illuminates an eye (E) under examination with the illumination light by means of the objective lens. The mounting portion is configured to be able to mount an external apparatus (smartphone 500, 500a) provided with a sensor in a manner that the sensor (image sensor 520) is disposed in a photographing light path (a light path of the photographing optical system 40). The photographing optical system guides return light of the illumination light from the eye under examination to the photographing light path. The communication portion has a communication function with the external apparatus. The control portion controls the illumination optical system and controls the sensor by means of the communication portion in a manner synchronized with the control of the illumination optical system.

[0320] According to such a manner, in a state where the external apparatus provided with the sensor is mounted, the control portion controls the illumination optical system and controls the sensor by means of the communication portion in a manner synchronized with the control of the illumination optical system. Thereby, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus and acquire a high-quality image of the eye under examination.

[0321] An ophthalmic apparatus (1, 1a, 1b, 1c) according to several embodiments includes an objective lens (46), an illumination optical system (20), a mounting portion (90, 90a), a photographing optical system (40), a communication portion (250), and a control portion (100, main control portion 101). The illumination optical system generates illumination light using light from a light source (510, 10) and illuminates an eye (E) under examination with the illumination light by means of the objective lens. The mounting portion is configured to be able to mount an external apparatus (smartphone 500, 500a) provided with a sensor in a manner that the sensor (image sensor 520) is disposed in a photographing light path (a light path of the photographing optical system 40). The photographing optical system guides return light of the illumination light from the eye under examination to the photographing light path. The communication portion has a communication function with the external apparatus. The control portion controls the illumination optical system and controls the sensor by means of the communication portion in a manner synchronized with the control of the illumination optical system.

[0322] According to such a manner, in a state where the external device provided with the sensor is attached, the control section is controlled by the external device via the communication section, and controls the illumination optical system. Thus, the ophthalmic apparatus can be simplified in configuration, and a high-quality image of the eye under examination can be obtained.

[0323] In several embodiments, the illumination optical system includes a light modulator (81) configured to be arranged at a position substantially optically conjugate with a photographing site (fundus Ef) of the eye under examination and to generate illumination light by modulating light from a light source, and the control section controls the light modulator in synchronization with the control of the sensor.

[0324] According to such a manner, since the control of the light modulator and the control of the sensor of the external device are synchronized, the ophthalmic apparatus can be simplified in configuration, and a high-quality image of the eye under examination can be obtained by a rolling shutter method.

[0325] In several embodiments, the illumination optical system includes a slit (22) formed with a slit-shaped opening portion capable of being arranged at a position substantially optically conjugate with a photographing site of the eye under examination, an iris diaphragm (21) capable of being arranged at a position substantially optically conjugate with an iris of the eye under examination, and arranged between the light source and the slit, and a light scanner (30) capable of being arranged at a position substantially optically conjugate with the iris of the eye under examination, and deflecting illumination light that has passed through the opening portion, and the control section controls the light scanner in synchronization with the control of the sensor.

[0326] According to such a manner, since the deflection control of the light scanner and the control of the sensor of the external device are synchronized, the ophthalmic apparatus can be simplified in configuration, and a high-quality image of the eye under examination can be obtained by a rolling shutter method.

[0327] In several embodiments, the illumination optical system includes a first relay lens system (relay lens system RL1) arranged between the light scanner and the slit, and a rear focal point position of the first relay lens system is a position substantially optically conjugate with the iris.

[0328] According to such a configuration, the optical system from the first relay lens system to the iris of the examined eye can be configured in accordance with the Barlow principle. Thus, even if the slit moves in the optical axis direction depending on the refractive power of the examined eye, the size of the slit image projected on the site of interest of the examined eye does not change regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye. This means that even if the slit moves in the optical axis direction, the projection magnification of the slit image projected on the site of interest does not change. As a result, the deflection operation speed of the light scanner can be made constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye, and the control of the light scanner can be simplified. In addition, since the projection visual angle (projection magnification) of the slit image on the visual axis of the examined eye is constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye, the luminance of the slit image of the site of interest can be made constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye. Moreover, in the case of acquiring an image at a predetermined imaging visual angle in an ophthalmic apparatus, since the projection magnification is constant, the length of the slit in the lengthwise direction does not need to be provided with a margin.

[0329] In several embodiments, the light scanner is disposed at or near the back focal point position.

[0330] According to such a configuration, the size of the optical system can be downsized, and the deflection operation speed of the light scanner can be made constant regardless of the refractive power of the examined eye, and the control of the light scanner can be simplified.

[0331] In several embodiments, the illumination optical system includes a second relay lens system (relay lens system RL2) disposed between the slit and the iris diaphragm, the iris diaphragm being disposed at or near the front focal point position of the second relay lens system.

[0332] According to such a configuration, since the projection magnification from the iris diaphragm to the light scanner can be changed by changing the focal length of the first relay lens system or the focal length of the second relay lens system, an image of an iris diaphragm of an arbitrary size can be projected on the light scanner at a desired size. Thus, even in the case where the size of the light emitting surface of the light source is different, an image of an iris diaphragm of a desired size can be projected on the light scanner, and the design freedom of the optical system can be improved.

[0333] In several embodiments, one or more opening portions (21A, 21B) through which the illumination light passes are formed in the iris diaphragm so that the beam cross section of the illumination light and the beam cross section of the return light from the examined eye are separated at the cornea, the anterior surface of the lens, and the posterior surface of the lens of the examined eye.

[0334] According to such a configuration, by high-precision pupil-separating the illumination light incident on the examined eye and the return light from the examined eye, the luminance required for measuring the site of interest of the examined eye can be ensured with a simple configuration, and a high-quality image of the examined eye can be acquired without affecting the state of the examined eye.

[0335] In several embodiments, two or more opening portions are formed in the iris diaphragm, and the two or more opening portions are formed to be linearly symmetrical with respect to a straight line that passes through the optical axis of the illumination optical system and extends in a direction corresponding to the length direction of the opening portion formed in the slit.

[0336] According to such a configuration, the illumination light incident on the eye to be examined from different directions and the return light from the eye to be examined can be pupil-divided with high precision.

[0337] In several embodiments, the opening portion is in an arcuate shape, and the direction of the chord of the arcuate shape is substantially parallel to the direction corresponding to the length direction of the opening portion formed in the slit.

[0338] According to such a configuration, the amount of light of the illumination light can be increased with a simple configuration, and a high-quality image with higher contrast can be obtained.

[0339] Several embodiments include a light source (10).

[0340] According to such a configuration, by using the sensor of the external device, the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus can be simplified, and a high-quality image of the eye to be examined can be obtained.

[0341] In several embodiments, the external device includes a light source (510), and the mounting portion is configured to be capable of mounting the external device in a manner that the light source is disposed in the optical path of the illumination optical system.

[0342] According to such a configuration, by using the light source and the sensor of the external device, the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus can be simplified, and a high-quality image of the eye to be examined can be obtained.

[0343] Several embodiments include a wavelength selection filter (70) configured to be capable of being inserted and removed with respect to the optical axis of the illumination optical system.

[0344] According to such a configuration, the imaging site can be illuminated with illumination light having a wavelength component in a desired wavelength range, and an ophthalmic apparatus that can observe the eye to be examined in detail can be provided.

[0345] In several embodiments, the external device is a portable telephone or a portable information terminal.

[0346] According to such a configuration, by synchronizing the control of the illumination optical system and the control of the sensor using the sensor provided in the portable telephone or the portable information terminal, the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus can be simplified, and a high-quality image of the eye to be examined can be obtained.

[0347] The ophthalmic system (1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c) of several embodiments includes the above-described external device and the ophthalmic apparatus according to any one of the above-described embodiments.

[0348] According to such a manner, since the control for the illumination optical system is synchronized with the control for the sensor in a state where the external device provided with the sensor is attached, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the ophthalmic apparatus and acquire a high-quality image of the examined eye.

[0349] The above-described embodiments or modifications thereof are merely examples for implementing the present application. A person who intends to implement the present application can implement any modifications, omissions, additions, and the like within the scope of the gist of the present application.

[0350] In the above-described embodiments, the case where the rolling shutter control is performed using the image sensor 520 is mainly described, but the configuration of the embodiments is not limited thereto. For example, the configuration of the embodiments can be applied to the case where the global shutter control is performed using the image sensor 520.

[0351] In the above-described embodiments, the detection device that detects the attachment of the smartphone using the attachment portion can be provided, and when the attachment of the smartphone is detected by the detection device, the communication connection between the ophthalmic apparatus and the smartphone is established. In addition, the detection result obtained by the detection device can be reported (displayed, sound output, light emission, and the like) to the ophthalmic apparatus or the smartphone. In this case, the user can receive the report of the detection result, and the communication connection between the ophthalmic apparatus and the smartphone is established.

[0352] In the above-described embodiments, the ophthalmic apparatus can have, for example, any function that can be used in the ophthalmic field, such as an axial length measurement function, an intraocular pressure measurement function, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) function, an ultrasonic wave examination function, and the like. Further, the axial length measurement function is realized by an optical coherence tomograph or the like. In addition, the axial length measurement function can project light to an examined eye, detect return light from the fundus while adjusting the position of the optical system in the Z direction (front-rear direction) with respect to the examined eye, and thereby measure the axial length of the examined eye. The intraocular pressure measurement function is realized by a tonometer or the like. The OCT function is realized by an optical coherence tomograph or the like. The ultrasonic wave examination function is realized by an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus or the like. In addition, the present application can be applied to a device (compound machine) provided with two or more of such functions.

[0353] In several embodiments, a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the ophthalmic apparatus described above is provided. Such a program can be stored in any recording medium that is non-transitory and readable by a computer. As the recording medium, for example, a semiconductor memory, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk (CD-ROM / DVD-RAM / DVD-ROM / MO, and the like), a magnetic storage medium (hard disk / floppy (registered trademark) disk / ZIP, and the like), and the like can be used. In addition, the program can be transmitted and received through a network such as the Internet or LAN.

[0354] Any combination of the configurations described in the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment can be made.

[0355] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0356] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c Ophthalmic device

[0357] 10, 510 Light source

[0358] 20 Illumination optical system

[0359] 21 Iris diaphragm

[0360] 22 Split

[0361] 41, 44, 48 Relay lens

[0362] 30 Light scanner

[0363] 35 Projection optical system

[0364] 40 Imaging optical system

[0365] 42 Black dot plate

[0366] 45 Pinhole mirror

[0367] 46 Objective lens

[0368] 47 Focusing lens

[0369] 100, 550 Control section

[0370] 250, 580 Communication section

[0371] 500, 500a Smart phone

[0372] 520 Image sensor

[0373] 521 Imaging lens

[0374] 560 Image forming section

[0375] 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c Ophthalmic system

[0376] E Eye to be examined

[0377] Ef Fundus

[0378] RL1, RL2 Relay lens system

Claims

1. An ophthalmic device comprising: Objective lens; An illumination optical system uses light from a light source to generate illumination light, and uses the illumination light to illuminate the eye being examined with the aid of the objective lens; The mounting section is configured to mount an external device equipped with the sensor in such a way that the sensor is positioned in the imaging optical path; The imaging optical system guides the return light from the illumination light of the examined eye to the imaging optical path; The communication unit has communication capabilities with the external device; as well as The control unit controls the illumination optical system and, in a manner synchronized with the control of the illumination optical system, controls the sensor via the communication unit. The illumination optical system includes: A slit, forming a slit-shaped opening, wherein the slit-shaped opening can be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the imaging area of ​​the eye being examined; An iris diaphragm is disposed between the light source and the slit, and can be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the iris of the eye being examined. An optical element is disposed between the light source and the iris aperture, and deflects the illumination light to maximize the amount of light in the direction connecting the opening of the iris aperture and the opening of the slit; and The optical scanner deflects the illumination light passing through the opening formed in the slit and can be positioned approximately optically conjugate with the iris of the eye being examined. The control unit moves the slit along the optical axis of the illumination optical system and changes at least one of the position and orientation of the optical element relative to the opening formed in the iris aperture, and controls the light scanner synchronously with the control of the sensor.

2. An ophthalmic device, comprising: Objective lens; An illumination optical system uses light from a light source to generate illumination light, and uses the illumination light to illuminate the eye being examined with the aid of the objective lens; The mounting section is configured to mount an external device equipped with the sensor in such a way that the sensor is positioned in the imaging optical path; The imaging optical system guides the return light from the illumination light of the examined eye to the imaging optical path; The communication unit has communication capabilities with the external device; as well as The control unit receives control from the external device via the communication unit, and at least controls the illumination optical system. The illumination optical system includes: A slit, forming a slit-shaped opening, wherein the slit-shaped opening can be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the imaging area of ​​the eye being examined; An iris diaphragm is disposed between the light source and the slit, and can be positioned approximately optically conjugate to the iris of the eye being examined. An optical element is disposed between the light source and the iris aperture, and deflects the illumination light to maximize the amount of light in the direction connecting the opening of the iris aperture and the opening of the slit; and The optical scanner deflects the illumination light passing through the opening formed in the slit and can be positioned approximately optically conjugate with the iris of the eye being examined. The control unit moves the slit along the optical axis of the illumination optical system and changes at least one of the position and orientation of the optical element relative to the opening formed in the iris aperture, and controls the light scanner synchronously with the control of the sensor.

3. The ophthalmic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The illumination optical system includes a first relay lens system disposed between the light scanner and the slit. The rear focal position of the first relay lens system is approximately optically conjugate with that of the iris.

4. The ophthalmic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The light scanner is positioned at or near the rear focal position.

5. The ophthalmic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The illumination optical system includes a second relay lens system disposed between the slit and the iris aperture. The iris aperture is positioned at or near the front focal point of the second relay lens system.

6. The ophthalmic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The iris aperture has one or more openings for the illumination light to pass through, such that the beam cross-section of the illumination light and the beam cross-section of the returning light from the eye being examined are separated in the cornea, anterior surface of the lens, and posterior surface of the lens of the eye being examined.

7. The ophthalmic device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The iris aperture has two or more openings. The two or more openings are formed as straight lines that extend symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the illumination optical system and in a direction corresponding to the length direction of the openings formed in the slit.

8. The ophthalmic device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The opening is bow-shaped. The direction of the bow-shaped chord is approximately parallel to the direction corresponding to the length direction of the opening formed in the fissure.

9. The ophthalmic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The ophthalmic device includes the light source.

10. The ophthalmic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The external device includes a light source. The mounting portion is configured to mount the external device in such a way that the light source is positioned in the optical path of the lighting optical system.

11. The ophthalmic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The ophthalmic device includes a wavelength-selective filter configured to be pluggable relative to the illumination optics system.

12. The ophthalmic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The external device is a mobile phone or a portable information terminal.

13. An ophthalmic system comprising: The ophthalmic device according to any one of claims 1 to 12; as well as The external device.

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