Detecting problems of laser systems

Abstract

In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic laser system includes a laser system, an imaging system, and a computer. The laser system accesses a planned test pattern of a planned laser spot and directs a laser beam toward a test target located at a target plane according to the planned test pattern to produce an actual test pattern of an actual laser spot on the test target. The actual laser spots correspond to the planned laser spots. The imaging system has a digital camera that generates a digital image of the actual test pattern. The computer analyzes the digital image to: compare the actual test pattern to the planned test pattern; detecting a deviation between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern; identifying a problem indicated by the deviation; and providing an output in response to the identified question.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally pertains to laser systems, and more specifically to the detection of related issues. Background Technology

[0002] Surgical laser systems use laser beams to perform medical procedures. The laser beam must be aimed accurately and precisely to perform safe and effective surgery. However, the system's surrounding environment, system movement, and even routine use can affect its accuracy and precision. In some cases, the system's laser scanner may malfunction, causing the system to guide the laser beam to the wrong location. Therefore, it is important to detect any problems with the scanner.

[0003] Known techniques for detecting problems with laser scanners include relying on human technicians to illuminate the test target and examine the resulting laser spot. However, this technique is slow and susceptible to human error. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic laser system includes a laser system, an imaging system, and a computer. The laser system accesses a planned test pattern of planned laser spots and, according to the planned test pattern, directs a laser beam toward a test target located on a target plane to generate an actual test pattern of actual laser spots on the test target. These actual laser spots correspond to these planned laser spots. The laser system includes a laser source for generating the laser beam and a scanner for directing the laser beam toward the test target. The imaging system has a digital camera that generates a digital image of the actual test pattern. The computer analyzes the digital image to: compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern; detect deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern; identify problems indicated by the deviations; and provide output in response to the identified problems.

[0005] The embodiments may exclude the following features or may include one, some, or all of the following features:

[0006] The computer analyzes the digital image by: determining the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image; identifying a subset of the grayscale values ​​representing these actual laser spots; and determining the actual test pattern based on the subset of grayscale values.

[0007] The computer analyzes the digital image by determining the dimensions present in the actual test pattern based on the mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels.

[0008] These planned laser spots are arranged along a first planned axis orthogonal to the second planned axis, and these actual laser spots are arranged along the first and second actual axes. The deviation is that the first and second actual axes are not orthogonal. The problem indicated by this deviation could be that the scanner is misaligned, or that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned.

[0009] These planned laser spots include a first planned laser spot at a planned spot interval with the second planned laser spot, and these actual laser spots include a first actual laser spot at an actual spot interval with the second actual laser spot. The discrepancy is that the actual spot interval is not the same as the planned spot interval. The problem indicated by this discrepancy could be that the scanner is not correctly guiding the laser beam to generate the planned spot interval.

[0010] The planned test pattern has a planned geometry, and the actual test pattern has an actual geometry. The deviation is that the actual geometry differs from the planned geometry. The problem indicated by this deviation could be that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned, or that the scanner is misaligned.

[0011] The planned laser spot of the test pattern has planned sharpness, and the actual laser spot of the actual test pattern has actual sharpness. The deviation is that the actual sharpness does not meet the planned sharpness. The problem indicated by this deviation could be that the system is experiencing unwanted vibrations, or that the laser system is not properly focusing the laser beam.

[0012] The computer provides output in response to identified problems by issuing warnings indicating that there is a problem with the laser system.

[0013] The computer provides output in response to the identified problem by sending commands to the laser system to resolve the problem.

[0014] The computer provides output in response to the identified problem by calculating corrections to remove the deviation and generating commands to instruct the scanner to perform the corrections.

[0015] The problem indicated by this deviation could be that there is a distance error in the scanner guiding the laser beam, and the output is a command to adjust the scanner to eliminate the distance error.

[0016] The imaging system includes a digital microscope.

[0017] The computer accesses previous actual test patterns, analyzes these previous actual test patterns, and detects trends in previous problems of the laser system based on these previous actual test patterns.

[0018] The digital camera generates a digital calibration image showing a calibration pattern of known length. The computer determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital calibration image (e.g., as calibration grayscale values), identifies a subset of these grayscale values ​​representing the known length, and determines a mathematical relationship between the known length and the number of pixels.

[0019] The computer can instruct the laser system by sending commands to it. The computer can instruct the laser system to guide the laser beam toward the test target located on the target plane according to the planned test pattern, control the laser source to generate the laser beam, or control the scanner to perform corrections to remove deviations.

[0020] The computer is coupled to the laser system via a wired connection, a wireless connection, and / or a telecommunications network connection.

[0021] In some embodiments, an ophthalmic laser system includes a laser system, an imaging system, and a computer. The laser system accesses a planned test pattern of planned laser spots and, according to the planned test pattern, directs a laser beam toward a test target located on a target plane to generate an actual test pattern of actual laser spots on the test target. These actual laser spots correspond to these planned laser spots. The laser system includes a laser source that generates the laser beam and a scanner that directs the laser beam toward the test target. The imaging system has a digital camera that generates a digital image of the actual test pattern. The computer analyzes the digital image to: determine the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image; identify a subset representing the grayscale values ​​of these actual laser spots; determine the actual test pattern based on the subset of grayscale values; and compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern. The computer determines the actual dimensions present in the actual test pattern based on a mathematical relationship between length and the number of pixels. The computer detects a deviation between the actual dimensions present in the actual test pattern and the planned dimensions present in the planned test pattern and sends a command to the scanner to resolve the deviation.

[0022] The embodiments may include the following features:

[0023] The computer sends the command to the scanner by calculating a correction to remove the deviation and generating a command to instruct the scanner to perform the correction.

[0024] In some embodiments, an ophthalmic laser system includes a laser system, an imaging system, and a computer. The laser system accesses a planned test pattern of a planned laser spot having planned beam characteristics and guides a laser beam toward a test target located at a target plane according to the planned test pattern to generate an actual test pattern of an actual laser spot on the test target. The actual laser spot corresponds to the planned laser spot and has actual beam characteristics. The laser system has a laser source for generating the laser beam and one or more beam control devices for guiding the laser beam toward the test target. The imaging system includes one or more digital cameras that generate a digital image of the actual test pattern of the actual laser spot. The computer analyzes the digital image to compare the actual laser spot with the planned laser spot, detects deviations between the actual beam characteristics and the planned beam characteristics, identifies a problem indicated by the deviation, and provides output in response to the problem.

[0025] The embodiments may exclude the following features or may include one, some, or all of the following features:

[0026] The computer analyzes the digital image by: determining the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image; identifying a subset of the grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spot; and determining the characteristics of the actual laser beam based on the subset of grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spot.

[0027] The computer analyzes the digital image by determining the dimension of the actual laser spot based on the mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels.

[0028] The computer analyzes the digital image by determining the length of one or more diameter chords of the actual laser spot.

[0029] The computer analyzes the digital image by determining a first length of a first diameter chord of the actual laser spot and a second length of a second diameter chord of the actual laser spot, wherein the second diameter chord is orthogonal to the first diameter chord.

[0030] The computer detects the deviation between the actual beam characteristics and the planned beam characteristics by: determining the actual diameter of the actual laser spot; comparing the actual diameter with the planned diameter of the planned laser spot; and determining whether the actual diameter differs from the planned diameter.

[0031] The computer detects the deviation between the actual beam characteristics and the planned beam characteristics by: determining the actual shape of the actual laser spot; comparing the actual shape with the planned shape of the planned laser spot; and determining whether the actual shape is different from the planned shape.

[0032] The computer detects the deviation between the actual beam characteristics and the planned beam characteristics by: determining the actual sharpness of the actual laser spot; comparing the actual sharpness with the planned sharpness of the planned laser spot; and determining whether the actual sharpness differs from the planned sharpness.

[0033] The computer identifies the problem indicated by the deviation by recognizing one or more beam control devices that failed to correctly guide the laser beam to the test target. The computer can then provide output in response to the problem by instructing the beam control device to correctly guide the laser beam to the test target.

[0034] The computer identifies the problem indicated by the misalignment by determining that the laser beam is not aligned with the target plane. The computer can provide output in response to the problem by instructing the laser system to align the laser beam with the target plane.

[0035] The computer provides output in response to the problem by issuing a warning indicating that there is a problem with the laser system.

[0036] The computer provides output in response to the problem by sending commands to the laser system to resolve the problem.

[0037] The computer provides output in response to the problem by calculating corrections to remove the deviation and generating commands to instruct the laser system to perform the corrections.

[0038] The imaging system includes a digital microscope.

[0039] The computer accesses previous actual test patterns, analyzes these previous actual test patterns, and detects trends in previous problems of the laser system based on these previous actual test patterns.

[0040] The digital camera generates a digital calibration image showing a calibration pattern of known length, and the computer determines a mathematical relationship between the known length of the digital calibration image and the number of pixels. The computer can determine this mathematical relationship by: determining the calibration grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital calibration image; identifying a subset of calibration grayscale values ​​representing the known length; and determining the mathematical relationship between the known length and the number of pixels based on the subset of calibration grayscale values ​​representing the known length.

[0041] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic laser system includes an auxiliary light system, a laser system, an imaging system, and a computer. The auxiliary light system guides auxiliary light toward a test target located at a target plane according to a planned test pattern to produce one or more actual auxiliary light spots of the actual test pattern on the test target. The planned test pattern indicates one or more planned auxiliary light spots positioned relative to a planned laser spot in a predetermined manner. The actual auxiliary light spots correspond to the planned auxiliary light spots. The laser system guides a laser beam toward the test target according to the planned test pattern to produce an actual laser spot of the actual test pattern on the test target. The actual laser spot corresponds to the planned laser spot of the planned test pattern. The imaging system has one or more digital cameras that generate a digital image of the actual test pattern. The computer analyzes the digital image to compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern, detects deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern, identifies problems indicated by the deviations, and provides output in response to the problems.

[0042] The embodiments may exclude the following features or may include one, some, or all of the following features:

[0043] The computer analyzes the digital image by: determining the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image; identifying a subset of grayscale values ​​representing the one or more actual auxiliary light spots; and analyzing the one or more actual auxiliary light spots based on the subset of grayscale values.

[0044] The computer analyzes the digital image by determining the dimensions of the actual auxiliary light spot based on the mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels.

[0045] The computer detects the deviation between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern by determining whether the one or more actual auxiliary light spots are positioned relative to the actual laser spot in the predetermined manner.

[0046] The auxiliary light includes an aiming beam, and a planned test pattern indicates that the planned auxiliary light spot corresponding to the aiming beam is located at the planned laser spot. The computer detects the deviation between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern by determining whether the actual auxiliary light spot corresponding to the planned auxiliary light spot is located at the actual laser spot. The computer can detect the deviation by determining the length of the deviation between the actual auxiliary light spot and the actual laser spot. The computer can provide this output by instructing the auxiliary light system to move the aiming beam such that the actual auxiliary light spot is located at the actual laser spot.

[0047] The auxiliary light includes a fixed beam, and a planned test pattern indicates that the planned auxiliary light spot corresponding to the fixed beam is located at the planned laser spot. The computer detects the deviation between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern by determining whether the actual auxiliary light spot corresponding to the planned auxiliary light spot is located at the actual laser spot. The computer can detect the deviation by determining the length of the deviation between the actual auxiliary light spot and the actual laser spot. The computer can provide this output by instructing the auxiliary light system to move the aiming beam such that the actual auxiliary light spot is located at the actual laser spot.

[0048] The auxiliary light includes distance beams, and a planned test pattern indicates that planned auxiliary light spots corresponding to these distance beams are superimposed. The computer detects the deviation between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern by determining whether these actual auxiliary light spots are superimposed. The computer can detect the deviation by determining the length of the deviation between these actual auxiliary light spots. The computer can provide this output by instructing the auxiliary light system to move these distance beams such that these actual auxiliary light spots are superimposed.

[0049] The computer provides output in response to the problem by issuing a warning indicating that there is a problem with the laser system.

[0050] The computer provides output in response to the problem by sending commands to the laser system to resolve the problem.

[0051] The computer provides output in response to the problem by calculating corrections to remove the deviation and generating commands to instruct the laser system to perform the corrections.

[0052] The imaging system includes a digital microscope.

[0053] The computer accesses previous actual test patterns, analyzes these previous actual test patterns, and detects trends in previous problems of the laser system based on these previous actual test patterns.

[0054] The digital camera generates a digital calibration image showing a calibration pattern of known length, and the computer determines a mathematical relationship between the known length of the digital calibration image and the number of pixels. The computer can determine this mathematical relationship by: determining the calibration grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital calibration image; identifying a subset of calibration grayscale values ​​representing the known length; and determining the mathematical relationship between the known length and the number of pixels based on the subset of calibration grayscale values ​​representing the known length. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 Examples of systems for detecting problems with laser systems according to certain embodiments are shown;

[0056] Figure 2 Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 1 An example of a computer system;

[0057] Figures 3A to 3C It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it may include in Figure 1 Examples of auxiliary optical systems in a system;

[0058] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of the system performing the detection of spot intervals;

[0059] Figures 5A to 5C It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of a system performing the detection of the orthogonality of the axes of an actual laser pattern;

[0060] Figure 6 It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of a system performing the detection of the geometry of an actual laser pattern;

[0061] Figure 7A and Figure 7B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of the detection of laser beam characteristics performed by system 10;

[0062] Figure 8A and Figure 8B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of a system performing the detection of a blurred laser spot;

[0063] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of the detection aiming beam alignment performed by system 10;

[0064] Figure 10A and Figure 10B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of the detection of fixed-optic alignment performed by system 10;

[0065] Figures 11A to 11D It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 An example of the detection distance beam alignment performed by system 10;

[0066] Figure 12A and Figure 12B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system performs an example of using calibration patterns to determine the mathematical relationship between length and pixels;

[0067] Figure 13 It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 Examples of methods for detecting problems in laser systems implemented by the system; and

[0068] Figure 14 It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 This is an example of a method performed by the system to determine the mathematical relationship between length and pixels. Detailed Implementation

[0069] Example embodiments of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods are now illustrated in detail with reference to the specification and accompanying drawings. The specification and drawings are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limit the claims to the specific embodiments shown in the drawings and disclosed in the specification. Although the drawings illustrate possible embodiments, they are not necessarily drawn to scale, and certain features may be simplified, exaggerated, removed, or partially cut out to better illustrate the embodiments.

[0070] The accuracy and precision of a laser beam are crucial for a surgical system to perform safe and effective surgery. Therefore, certain embodiments described herein address the issue of laser beam accuracy and precision. In these embodiments, the surgical system includes a laser system that guides a laser beam to a test target according to a planned pattern of the laser spot to produce an actual pattern of the laser spot on the test target. An imaging system captures a digital image of the actual pattern. A computer analyzes the digital image to detect deviations between the actual pattern and the planned pattern. In some embodiments, the computer automatically sends commands to the laser system to correct for these deviations.

[0071] Some implementations detect and correct problems faster and more reliably than humans. For example, a computer can be programmed to check for problems automatically and periodically. As another example, a computer can automatically send instructions to a laser or optical system to correct problems. As yet another example, a computer can analyze the results of previous checks to assess laser performance over time and predict future problems. As yet another example, a computer can record results and automatically send result reports.

[0072] Figure 1 An example of a system 10 for detecting problems with a laser system 20 according to certain embodiments is shown. In the example, system 10 uses a test target 12 located at a target plane 14 to detect problems. System 10 includes a platform 16, a laser system 20, an imaging system 22, a computer 24, and an auxiliary optical system 26 coupled as shown, wherein coupling can mean a wired connection, a wireless connection, a telecommunications network connection, and / or other suitable communication connection. Laser system 20 includes a laser source 30, a scanner 32, an optical device 34, and an objective lens 36 coupled as shown. Computer 24 includes a processor 40, an interface 42, and a memory 44 coupled as shown, which stores application programs 46 and data 48.

[0073] According to an example of operation, laser system 20 accesses a planned test pattern for a planned laser spot. Laser source 30 generates a laser beam 18, and scanner 32 guides the laser beam 18 toward test target 12 according to the planned test pattern to produce an actual test pattern of the actual laser spot on test target 12. Imaging system 22 includes one or more digital cameras that generate digital images of the actual test pattern. Computer 24 analyzes the digital image to compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern and detects deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern. Computer 24 identifies problems indicated by deviations and provides output in response to the identified problems.

[0074] For ease of explanation, although the following example xyz coordinate system is used to describe the embodiment, this xyz coordinate system can be considered as the coordinate system of system 10, but any suitable coordinate system can be used. In the example, the z-axis is aligned with the optical axis of laser system 20, and the xy plane is orthogonal to the z-axis and can be located, for example, at target plane 14. Geometric features (e.g., spacing, length, orientation, diameter, or shape) can be located in any suitable part of the xyz coordinate system. For example, a spacing (or other geometric feature) can be in the xy plane, along the z-axis, or in a plane not orthogonal to the z-axis. Additionally, the position of an object can refer to the location and / or orientation of the object.

[0075] systemSystem 10 can be any suitable laser system that guides the laser beam 18 toward the target. In some embodiments, system 10 can be a laser surgery system for performing surgical procedures on humans, such as an ophthalmic surgery system for performing procedures on the human eye. Examples of such systems include cataract surgery systems, refractive surgery systems, vitreoretinal surgery systems, or other ophthalmic surgery systems.

[0076] Test target Turning Figure 1 The test target 12 is located at the target plane 14 and can be supported by the platform 16. The target plane 14 is the area where the laser system 20 is designed to generate the laser spot of the test pattern and can represent the treatment plane. In some cases, the target plane 14 can specify the z = 0 plane. The test target 12 located at the target plane 14 indicates where the laser spot of the laser system 20 will appear at the intended target (e.g., the surgical site of human tissue such as the eye). Or in other words, the distance from the laser system 20 to the target plane 14 can correspond to the expected or average distance from the laser system 20 to the surgical site when performing surgery on human tissue (e.g., the eye).

[0077] Test target 12 includes a photosensitive material or sensor that undergoes a visible change, wherein the light beam interacts with target 12 to indicate the location where the light beam interacts with plane 14. The visible change can be a color change, where "color" includes both chromatic and non-chromatic colors. For example, if there is no interaction, the material may be one color ("non-radiative color"), but if the light beam interacts with the test target, the material changes to another color ("irradiated color"). Examples of test target 12 include photographic paper, metal foil, a conversion screen, and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) material. In some embodiments, test target 12 may include a material that reflects the light beam to produce a digital image indicating the location where the beam is reflected. In some embodiments, test target 12 may include a thin paper or material that, upon contact with the laser beam, can form holes or voids in the material, and these holes can indicate a color change.

[0078] laser systemThe laser system 20 guides a laser beam 18 toward a test target 12 according to a test pattern, wherein a laser source 30 generates the beam 18, and a scanner 32 guides the beam 18 toward the test target 12. Examples of laser sources 30 include excimer lasers and femtosecond lasers. The laser beam 18 can have any suitable pulse duration, such as on the order of nanoseconds, picoseconds, femtoseconds, or attoseconds. The laser beam 18 can have any suitable wavelength, such as in the range of 150 nanometers (nm) to 20 micrometers (µm). Examples of ranges include ultraviolet (e.g., in the range of 180 nm to 400 nm, such as 190 nm to 195 nm or 345 nm to 355 nm), visible light, or infrared wavelengths (e.g., in the range of 1050 nm to 1250 nm or 1250 nm to 1500 nm). The laser beam 18 can ablate, cut, or photo-fracture the target.

[0079] The scanner 32 guides the focal point of the laser beam 18 towards the target laterally and / or longitudinally. The lateral direction refers to the direction orthogonal to the beam propagation direction, i.e., the x and y directions. The scanner 32 can guide the laser beam 18 laterally in any suitable manner (e.g., using a pair of galvanometer-actuated scanner mirrors or an electro-optic crystal). The longitudinal direction refers to the direction of propagation of the laser beam 18, i.e., the z direction. The scanner 32 can guide the laser beam 18 longitudinally in any suitable manner (a longitudinally adjustable lens, a lens with variable refractive power, or a deformable mirror that allows control of the z-position of the focal point).

[0080] One or more optical devices 34 guide the laser beam 18 from the laser system 20 toward the focusing objective 36 and may be located before, within, and / or after the scanner 32. The optical devices 34 may act (e.g., transmit, reflect, refract, diffract, collimate, adjust, shape, focus, modulate, and / or otherwise act on) the laser beam 18. Examples of optical devices 34 include lenses, prisms, mirrors, diffractive optics (DOE), holographic optics (HOE), and spatial light modulators (SLM).

[0081] In some embodiments, the optical device 34 may include one or more beam control devices that control or adjust one or more characteristics of the laser beam. Examples of beam control devices include beam expanders, collimators, beam shapers (such as diffraction beam shapers), beam scanners, and other optical devices that can control or adjust beam characteristics. Laser beam characteristics may include, for example, the diameter and / or shape of the cross-section of the laser beam. In the example shown, the focusing objective 36 focuses the laser beam 18 toward the test target 12 at the target plane 14.

[0082] Imaging systemImaging system 22 includes one or more digital cameras or other optical sensors that can generate a digital image of a laser spot or auxiliary spot on test target 12. Typically, the digital camera or other optical sensor detects light from the object and generates a signal in response to the light. This signal carries digital image data that can be used to generate a digital image of the object. Examples of cameras include charge-coupled device (CCD), video, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensors (e.g., active pixel sensors (APS)), line sensors, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) cameras. Imaging system 22 may include a camera that provides a two-dimensional image of target 12, or it may include a stereo camera that provides a three-dimensional image of target 12. In some embodiments, imaging system 22 includes a digital microscope having one or two cameras that can provide a magnified image of target 12.

[0083] Auxiliary light system The auxiliary light system 26 directs light (e.g., a laser beam or illumination light) toward the test target 12 according to a planned test pattern to generate an actual test pattern on the test target 12. (See reference) Figures 3A to 3C An example of the auxiliary light system 26 is described in more detail.

[0084] Figure 2 Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 1 The example of system 10 is a computer 24. In this example, computer 24 includes a processor 40, an interface 42, and a memory 44 storing applications 46 and data 48. Application 46 includes an image analyzer 50, a problem detector 52, and an output generator 54. Data 48 includes digital images 56 and test patterns 58.

[0085] Digital Images Digital image 56 includes digital images of the actual test pattern generated by imaging system 22 at any suitable time (e.g., within the current minute, hour, day, week, month, or year or many years). Computer 24 can analyze recently generated images to detect problems immediately, or it can analyze images generated over a longer period of time to detect trends occurring during that period. Digital image 56 may also include digital images of calibration patterns used for calibration system 10, examples of which are shown in [reference needed]. Figure 12A and Figure 12B To describe in more detail. In some cases, a digital image can be a complex of multiple images taken from different cameras and / or at different times.

[0086] Test patternThe planned test pattern instructs the laser system 20 to direct the laser beam toward one or more specific locations and / or instructs the auxiliary light system 26 to direct an auxiliary beam toward one or more specific locations. The resulting one or more illumination positions (e.g., laser spot and / or auxiliary spot) constitute the actual test pattern. The planned illumination positions of the planned test pattern produce the corresponding actual illumination positions of the actual test pattern; for example, when the laser beam and / or auxiliary beam are actually directed to the test target 12, the planned spot produces the corresponding actual spot. (Reference) Figures 4A to 12B An example of the test pattern is described in more detail.

[0087] Image analysis Image analyzer 50 uses image processing to analyze digital images. In some embodiments, analyzer 50 uses grayscale analysis. The grayscale value of a pixel represents the brightness or intensity value of the pixel and can be represented in any suitable manner, such as 0 or 0% for complete absence (black) and 1 or 100% for complete presence (white). In an embodiment, analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels of the digital image of the actual test pattern. Analyzer 50 then identifies a subset of grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spot and / or auxiliary spot of the test pattern, such as lighter values ​​or white values. For example, the grayscale value of the illumination color represents the actual spot. In some cases, grayscale values ​​can indicate the degree of illumination, such that some values ​​indicate more illumination while others indicate less radiation. Pixels with grayscale values ​​representing the actual spot indicate the location of the spot, allowing analyzer 50 to determine the actual test pattern. Although this example uses grayscale analysis, any suitable analysis can be used, such as color analysis utilizing color. Therefore, a “grayscale” value can generally refer to a chromaticity value.

[0088] In some embodiments, analyzer 50 uses a mathematical relationship between the length of a digital image and pixels to calculate the length of a dimension (e.g., the spacing between laser spots or the diameter of a laser spot) in the actual test pattern. For example, the mathematical relationship could be that p pixels equal q length units, which could be expressed as a ratio p / q or q / p. In embodiments, analyzer 50 determines the number of pixels covered by the dimension and uses this relationship to convert the number of pixels into length units. In some embodiments, analyzer 50 may perform a calibration process to determine the mathematical relationship between length and pixels. References below... Figure 14 An example of defining a relationship is described.

[0089] In some embodiments, analyzer 50 can detect trends in multiple test patterns generated over time. In embodiments, analyzer 50 accesses and analyzes previous actual test patterns used, for example, over weeks, months, or years, to detect trends in previous problems with the laser system. For example, analyzer 50 can detect that scanner 32 tends to become misaligned after a certain number of procedures. Analyzer 50 can provide output that notifies the user of potential misalignment during a warning period prior to executing that number of procedures.

[0090] Problem detection Problem detector 52 compares the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern, detects deviations between the two patterns, and identifies problems indicated by these deviations. Deviations can be differences greater than a predetermined error margin, such as 2%, 5%, or 10%. In some embodiments, the planned and / or actual test patterns are converted to the same or similar format so that problem detector 52 can compare the test patterns. For example, the planned test pattern can describe the spot position. As mentioned above, the grayscale value representing the actual spot indicates its position; therefore, the actual test pattern can also describe the spot position.

[0091] Output generation Output generator 54 generates and provides output in response to the identified problem. Any suitable output can be provided. Examples of output may include one or more of the following. In some cases, the output may be a warning to the user notifying them of a problem with the system. For example, system 10 may display a notification or warning message (e.g., text, photo, or graphic), display an error message, or provide an audio or visual warning.

[0092] In some cases, the output may be a command sent to the laser system 20 to resolve the problem. For example, the command may include instructions to adjust the beam scanner 32 to correct the detected problem, prevent the laser system 20 from generating a laser beam, or shut down the laser system 20. In some embodiments, the output generator 54 may calculate corrections to remove the deviation and generate a command to instruct the scanner to perform the correction. For example, the output generator 54 may determine that there is a distance error in the laser beam guided by the scanner 32 and generate a command to adjust the scanner 32 to remove the distance error. In the example, the distance error x is expressed in pixels. err = +x, therefore, pixel-level correction can include x corr = -x. Output generator 54 can use a mathematical relationship between length and pixels (e.g., p pixels equal q length units) to convert pixel-based corrections into length-based corrections, thereby generating commands that scanner 32 can use. In the example, the length-based correction x' corr = Correction in pixels xcorr × (q length units / p pixels) = -x × (q / p).

[0093] In some cases, the output can report information about the long-term performance of system 10. For example, the report can describe the history of previous actual laser pattern analysis, describe trends in problems, or provide warnings about predicted problems, which can be provided to service technicians, laser manufacturers, or regulatory organizations.

[0094] Figures 3A to 3C It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it may include in Figure 1 An example of the auxiliary light system 26 in system 10. The auxiliary light system 26 directs auxiliary light (e.g., a laser beam or illumination light) toward the test target 12 according to a planned test pattern of the planned auxiliary light spot. The planned test pattern produces an actual test pattern of the actual auxiliary light spot on the test target 12. Examples of auxiliary light include aiming beams, fixation beams, illumination beams, and range beams.

[0095] Figure 3A An example of an auxiliary light system 26 is shown, which generates a targeting beam that indicates the position of a laser spot (such as a treatment laser spot) formed by the laser system 20. In an embodiment, the auxiliary light system 26 guides the targeting beam to generate a targeting spot at a predetermined position relative to the planned treatment laser spot. The predetermined position may be, for example, at or near the planned treatment laser spot. In one example, the targeting spot may be formed before the treatment laser spot is formed to indicate the location where the actual treatment laser spot will be. In another example, the targeting spot may be formed after the treatment laser spot is formed to indicate the position of the actual treatment laser spot.

[0096] Figure 3B An example of an auxiliary light system 26 is shown, which directs auxiliary light to any suitable predetermined coordinates in the xyz coordinate system, such as the xy coordinates of the xy plane located at the treatment plane. In the example shown, the auxiliary light is a fixation light at which the patient will fixate their gaze. The auxiliary light system 26 directs the fixation light to xy coordinates at which the patient will fixate their gaze. As another example, the auxiliary light is illumination light illuminating the surgical site. The auxiliary light system 26 directs the fixation light to the xy coordinates of the surgical site.

[0097] Figure 3C An example of an auxiliary optical system 26 is shown, which generates a distance beam indicating distance in the z-direction. In the example, the auxiliary optical system 26 includes laser diodes arranged at an angle to generate beams that intersect at a target plane 14. When the target plane 14 is at the correct z-position, the laser spots formed by the beams overlap.

[0098] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detecting the spot interval. In the example, the planned test pattern has a first planned laser spot 61a at a predetermined spot interval (i.e., distance) 59 with respect to the second planned laser spot 61b. The planned test pattern generates an actual test pattern 58a on the test target 12 located at the target plane 14. The actual test pattern 58a has corresponding actual laser spots 62a-b with actual spot intervals 64a (e.g., distance in units of length). The imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58a.

[0099] In the example, analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset representing the grayscale values ​​of laser spots 62a-b. Analyzer 50 then determines the actual interval 64b (e.g., distance in pixels) between the laser spots 62a-b. Analyzer 50 can convert the actual interval 64b, given in pixels, to the actual interval 64a, given in length, using a mathematical relationship between length and pixels. Problem detector 52 detects deviations between the actual spot interval 64a and the planned spot interval 59. This deviation can indicate that the scanner is not correctly guiding the laser beam to produce the predetermined spot interval.

[0100] Figures 5A to 5C It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detecting the orthogonality of the axes of an actual laser pattern. In the example, the planned test pattern has a laser spot along a first planned axis orthogonal to a second planned axis; for example, the planned test pattern instructs the laser system 20 to form laser spots along the planned x-axis 67a and planned y-axis 67b of the coordinate system of the laser system 20. The planned test pattern generates an actual test pattern 58b on the test target 12. The actual test pattern 58b has an actual laser spot 62c along the first actual axis (actual x' axis 66a) and the second actual axis (actual y' axis 66b). The imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58b.

[0101] Analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset of the grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spot 62c. Analyzer 50 can then use any suitable method to determine whether the actual x' axis 66a and the actual y' axis 66b are orthogonal. In some examples, the analysis is performed along the planned x-axis 67a (… Figure 5B ) and the planned y-axis 67b ( Figure 5CThe grayscale value of the laser beam is shown. Along the planned x-axis 67a, the actual laser spot 62c appears on the x' axis 66a, indicating that the actual laser spot 62c is aligned with the planned x-axis 67a. However, along the planned y-axis 67b, the actual laser spot 62c, which is farther from the center on the y' axis 66a, hardly appears or does not appear at all, indicating that the actual laser spot 62c is not aligned with the planned y-axis 67b.

[0102] In other examples, analyzer 50 first identifies the actual x' axis 66a and y' axis 66b from the grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spots. Then, analyzer 50 determines the orthogonality of the actual x' axis 66a and actual y' axis 66b in any suitable manner. For example, analyzer 50 identifies actual spots 91a and 91b located at -p units and +p units respectively on the actual x' axis 66a, and identifies an actual spot 93 located on the actual y' axis 66b. Analyzer 50 measures the distances between spots 91a and 93, and between spots 93 and 91b. These distances should be equal, but in the example shown, the distance between spots 91a and 93 is greater than the distance between spots 93 and 91b, indicating that the actual x' axis 66a and actual y' axis 66b are not orthogonal. A deviation in orthogonality can indicate that the scanner is misaligned, or that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned.

[0103] Figure 6 It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detecting the geometry of an actual laser pattern. The planned test pattern can have any suitable geometry, such as an ellipse (circular or non-circular); a polygon (regular or irregular) with any suitable number of sides, such as a rectangle or square; or an array (one-dimensional or two-dimensional). In the example shown, the shape is circular, and the planned test pattern produces an actual test pattern 58c on the test target 12. The actual test pattern 58c has an actual laser spot 62d depicting the geometry. The imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58c.

[0104] In the example, analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset of the grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spot 62d. Analyzer 50 can use the techniques described herein to determine whether the actual shape matches the planned shape. For example, analyzer 50 can examine the grayscale values ​​of the laser spot 62d along lines L1 to L4. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The technique described herein is used to inspect the spot spacing along line L, 62d, and can be used... Figures 5A to 5CThe techniques described herein are used to check the orthogonality of lines L1 and L2, as well as lines L3 and L4. In these and other embodiments, when the geometry of the actual test pattern differs from that of the planned test pattern, the problem detector 52 can detect the deviation between the actual and planned test patterns. This deviation can indicate that the scanner is misaligned, or that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned.

[0105] Figure 7A and Figure 7B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detecting laser beam characteristics. Laser beam characteristics may include, for example, the diameter and / or cross-sectional shape of the laser beam. A digital image of the actual laser spot 62 can be analyzed to determine the laser beam characteristics. For example, the diameter of the actual laser spot 62 indicates the beam diameter, and the shape of the actual laser spot 62 indicates the cross-sectional shape.

[0106] In the example shown, the planned laser spot has planned beam characteristics, such as a planned diameter and / or shape. Imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual laser spot 62. Analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset representing the grayscale values ​​of the laser spot 62. Analyzer 50 then uses the digital image to determine the actual beam characteristics, as described in the following example. Analyzer 50 can use a mathematical relationship between length and pixels to convert the beam characteristics given in pixels of the image into features given in length. Problem detector 52 detects deviations between the actual beam characteristics and the planned beam characteristics. The deviation can be a difference greater than a predetermined error margin, such as 2%, 5%, or 10%. This deviation can indicate, for example, that the beam control device cannot properly control the laser beam to produce the planned beam characteristics, or that the laser beam is not properly aligned with the target plane. Computer 24 can provide instructions for adjusting the beam control device or for aligning the laser beam with the target plane to produce the planned beam characteristics.

[0107] Analyzer 50 can determine the actual beam characteristics in any suitable manner. For example, analyzer 50 determines the diameter of laser spot 62 by measuring chords 65 (65a or 65b) (“diameter chords”) that intersect the center 63 of spot 62. As another example, analyzer 50 determines the shape of laser spot 62 by measuring two or more diameter chords 65a-b that intersect the center 63 of spot 62. In some cases, a pair of chords 65 can be orthogonal. If the lengths of the chords 65 are substantially the same, analyzer 50 determines that the shape is circular. Otherwise, analyzer 50 determines that the shape is not circular, such as a non-circular ellipse. If the shape is elliptical, analyzer 50 can determine the length and / or direction of the longest and / or shortest chords 65. The length and / or direction can be given, for example, in the xy plane at z = 0 or in the xyz direction of the xyz coordinate system.

[0108] Computer 24 can provide instructions for adjusting beam control devices or for aligning the laser beam with the target plane in any suitable manner. For example, computer 24 can identify a beam control device (e.g., a lens) responsible for the beam diameter or cross-sectional shape and instruct the beam control device to adjust the focal length and / or beam divergence / convergence to produce the planned beam diameter or cross-sectional shape. As another example, computer 24 can identify a component of laser system 20 responsible for aligning the laser beam with the target plane 14 (e.g., scanner 32 or target platform 16) and instruct that component to align the laser beam with the target plane to produce the planned cross-sectional shape.

[0109] Figure 8A and Figure 8B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detecting a blurred laser spot. In this example, the planned sharpness of the laser spot boundary is described in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, sharpness can be described as the relationship between grayscale values ​​and pixel positions, where a faster transition between pixels representing the laser spot and pixels not representing the laser spot indicates a sharper boundary. In the example shown, sharpness can be represented by a slope m 95, which measures the change Δg of grayscale values ​​relative to the change Δp of the number of pixels that occur between pixels representing the laser spot 62e and pixels not representing the laser spot. In the example, the threshold slope M represents the minimum acceptable sharpness of the laser spot. The threshold slope can be calculated from a digital image of an acceptable laser spot, identified by a user, or determined by any other suitable method. In these and other embodiments, a slope m < M can indicate that the laser spot 62e has less than acceptable sharpness.

[0110] To detect blurred laser spots, the test pattern can have one, two, or more laser spots. In the example shown, imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58d with laser spot 62e. Analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset of the grayscale values ​​representing the actual laser spot 62e. Problem detector 52 detects that laser spot 62e is more blurred than expected. For example, problem detector 52 calculates a slope m < M, which indicates that laser spot 62e has less than acceptable sharpness. This deviation can indicate that system 20 is experiencing unwanted vibrations or that the beam control device is not properly focusing the laser beam.

[0111] Figures 9A to 11B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1The system 10 performs an example of aligning the auxiliary light of the detection auxiliary light system 26. The auxiliary light system 26 guides the auxiliary light (e.g., a laser beam or illumination light) toward the test target 12 according to a planned test pattern of one or more planned auxiliary light spots. The planned test pattern generates an actual test pattern of one or more actual auxiliary light spots on the test target 12. Examples of auxiliary lights include aiming beams, fixation beams, illumination beams, and distance beams.

[0112] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detecting the alignment of the aiming beam. In this example, the planned test pattern has a planned aiming spot centered on or within a line of the planned treatment laser spot formed by the laser system 20. The planned test pattern produces an actual test pattern 58e, which includes an actual aiming spot 80 and an actual treatment laser spot 82. The imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58e.

[0113] In the example, analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset of grayscale values ​​representing the actual aiming spot 80 and the treatment laser spot 82. Analyzer 50 determines the relative positions of spots 80 and 82, and problem detector 52 detects whether the actual aiming spot 80 is centered on or within the actual treatment laser spot 82. Problem detector 52 can also determine the length and / or direction of the deviation between the actual aiming spot 80 and the planned aiming spot. For example, if the planned aiming spot should be positioned at the same location as the center laser spot 82 in the line of spot 82, problem detector 52 can determine the length and / or direction of the deviation between the actual aiming spot 80 and the laser spot 82. If the aiming beam is not properly aligned, computer 24 instructs auxiliary light system 26 to adjust the aiming beam to align the beam. Computer 24 can instruct auxiliary light system 26 to move the aiming beam in the opposite length and / or opposite direction of the deviation to correct the deviation.

[0114] Figure 10A and Figure 10B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1The system 10 performs an example of detecting fixation beam alignment. In the example, the planned test pattern has a planned fixation spot centered within a planned fixation target, which represents the (x, y) coordinates where the patient will fixate, for example, the location where the treatment beam will be located, such as the point (0, 0) in the laser coordinate system. In the example, the fixation target 86 is a row of laser spots generated by the laser beam of the laser system 20. The planned test pattern produces an actual test pattern 58f, which has an actual fixation spot 84 at the target plane 14 relative to the fixation target 86. The imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58f.

[0115] In the example, analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset of grayscale values ​​representing the actual fixed spot 84 relative to the fixed target 86. Analyzer 50 determines the relative position of spot 84 and target 86, and problem detector 52 detects whether the actual fixed spot 84 is centered within the fixed target 86. Problem detector 52 can also determine the length and direction of the deviation between the actual fixed spot 84 and the planned fixed spot 84. If the fixed beam is not properly aligned, computer 24 instructs auxiliary light system 26 to adjust the fixed beam to align it. Computer 24 can instruct auxiliary light system 26 to move the fixed beam in the opposite length and opposite direction of the deviation to correct the deviation.

[0116] Figures 11A to 11D It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of detection range beam alignment. In the example, the planned test pattern has planned range spots overlapping at the target plane 14. The planned test pattern produces an actual test pattern 58g with an actual range spot 88 at the target plane 14. The imaging system 22 captures a digital image of the actual test pattern 58g.

[0117] In the example, analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image and identifies a subset of grayscale values ​​representing the actual distance spots 88. Analyzer 50 determines the relative position of the distance spots 88, and problem detector 52 detects whether the distance spots 88 overlap. Figure 11A and Figure 11B In the example, the actual distance spots 88 do not overlap, indicating that the distance beam is not properly aligned. Problem detector 52 can also determine the spacing length of the actual distance spots 88. Computer 24 can instruct auxiliary optical system 26 to adjust the distance beam to align it. For example, computer 24 can instruct auxiliary optical system 26 to move the distance beam closer together to generate actual distance spots 88 that move together by the spacing length to eliminate the gap. Figure 11C and Figure 11D In the example, the actual distance spot overlaps by 88, which indicates that the distance beam is correctly aligned.

[0118] Figure 12A and Figure 12B It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 The system 10 performs an example of using calibration pattern 68 to determine the mathematical relationship between length and pixels. Typically, the calibration pattern shows lengths of known length, for example, within the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, 2 mm to 5 mm, 5 mm to 10 mm, 10 mm to 20 mm, 20 mm to 50 mm, and / or 50 mm or more (e.g., 1 mm). The calibration pattern can be, for example, a line with segments of known length or a grid of squares with sides of known length (e.g., a checkerboard pattern). In the example shown, calibration pattern 68 is a checkerboard pattern with squares having sides of 1 mm.

[0119] In some embodiments, analyzer 50 uses calibration pattern 68 to determine the mathematical relationship between the length and pixels of the digital image generated by system 10. In the example shown, imaging system 22 captures a digital calibration image of calibration pattern 68 located at target plane 14. Analyzer 50 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image (e.g., calibration grayscale values) and then identifies a subset of grayscale values ​​representing a known length (e.g., a square). Analyzer 50 then determines the number of pixels corresponding to the known length, e.g., the number of pixels the known length extends across. Depending on, for example, the pixel resolution and distance between imaging system 22 and test target 12, any suitable number of pixels can correspond to the known length, such as 50 to 100 pixels, 100 to 250 pixels, and 250 to 500 pixels. In the example, 77 pixels correspond to a square, and therefore 77 pixels correspond to 1 mm.

[0120] Figure 13 It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1 This is an example of a method for detecting problems in laser system 20 performed by system 10. In this embodiment, the method begins at step 110, in which laser system 20 accesses a planned test pattern of a planned laser spot and / or a planned auxiliary spot. At step 112, laser system 20 directs a laser beam toward a test target 12 located at a target plane 14 according to the planned test pattern to generate an actual test pattern of the actual laser spot and / or the actual auxiliary spot on the test target 12. At step 114, imaging system 22 generates a digital image of the actual test pattern.

[0121] At step 116, computer 24 analyzes the digital image to prepare for performing one or more steps 120 to 126. In some embodiments, computer 24 may analyze the digital image by: determining the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digital image; identifying a subset of grayscale values ​​representing the actual light spot; and using the subset of grayscale values ​​to determine the actual test pattern. In some embodiments, computer 24 may also use a mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels to measure the dimensions present in the actual test pattern.

[0122] At step 120, computer 24 compares the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern. In the example, the planned test pattern describes the spot position in units of length, while the digital image describes the spot position in units of pixels. Using the mathematical relationship between length and pixels, computer 24 converts the spot position in pixels to a position in units of length for pattern comparison, thereby detecting deviations in spot position or the spot itself.

[0123] Computer 24 detects a deviation between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern at step 122, and identifies the problem indicated by the deviation at step 124. For example, the planned test pattern may have orthogonal axes, while the actual test pattern may have non-orthogonal axes. This could indicate that the scanner's reflector is misaligned, or that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned. As another example, the actual test pattern may have a laser spot not located at the spot interval defined by the planned test pattern, which could indicate that the scanner is not guiding the laser beam to the correct spot. As another example, the actual test pattern may have a shape different from that defined by the planned test pattern, which could indicate that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned or that the scanner is not guiding the laser beam correctly. As another example, the actual laser spot may have a different size or shape than the planned laser spot, which could indicate that the laser beam control device is not guiding the beam correctly or that the laser beam and the target plane are misaligned. As another example, the actual test pattern may be blurry, which could indicate that the laser system is experiencing unwanted vibrations or that the beam control device is not focusing the beam correctly.

[0124] At step 126, computer 24 provides output in response to identifying the problem. In some embodiments, the output may provide a warning indicating a problem with laser system 20 and / or send a command to laser system 20 to resolve the problem. For example, computer 24 may display a message describing the problem. As another example, computer 24 may calculate corrections to remove deviations and generate commands to instruct optical device 34 and / or scanner 32 to perform corrections.

[0125] Figure 14 It is shown that, according to certain embodiments, it can be made by Figure 1This is an example of a method performed by system 10 to determine the mathematical relationship between length and pixels. In an embodiment, the method begins at step 210, in which imaging system 22 generates a digital image showing a calibration pattern of known length (e.g., q length units). The calibration pattern can be, for example, lines with segments of known length or a grid of squares with sides of known length (e.g., ...). Figure 12A The chessboard pattern shown.

[0126] At step 212, computer 24 determines the grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the digitally calibrated image. At step 214, computer 24 identifies a subset of grayscale values ​​representing a known length, and at step 216 determines a mathematical relationship between the known length and a specific number of pixels. In the example, the known length extends across p pixels, i.e., p pixels correspond to q length units, so the relationship is p pixels equal to q length units. Computer 24 can use the length-pixel relationship for any suitable purpose, such as converting the length of dimensions (e.g., spot spacing) found in a digital image of laser spots from the number of pixels to length units.

[0127] Components of the systems and devices disclosed herein (such as computer 24) may include interfaces, logic, and / or memory, any of which may include computer hardware and / or software. Interfaces may receive input to and / or send output from components, and are typically used to exchange information between, for example, software, hardware, peripherals, users, and combinations thereof. A user interface is a type of interface that a user can use to communicate with a computer (e.g., send input to and / or receive output from the computer). Examples of user interfaces include displays, graphical user interfaces (GUIs), touchscreens, keyboards, mice, gesture sensors, microphones, and speakers. Components of these systems and devices may communicate with each other via computer interconnection, which may utilize wired, wireless, optical, or other technologies.

[0128] Logic can perform operations on components. Logic may include one or more electronic devices that process data (e.g., execute instructions to generate outputs from inputs). Examples of such electronic devices include computers, processors, microprocessors (e.g., central processing units (CPUs), including multiprocessor chips), and computer chips. Logic may include computer software that encodes instructions that can be executed by electronic devices to perform operations. Examples of computer software include computer programs, application programs, and operating systems.

[0129] Memory can store information and may include tangible, computer-readable, and / or computer-executable storage media. Examples of memory include computer memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM)), mass storage media (e.g., hard disk), removable storage media (e.g., optical disc (CD) or digital video or universal disc (DVD)), databases, network storage devices (e.g., servers), and / or other computer-readable media. Specific embodiments may relate to memory encoded with computer software.

[0130] Although this disclosure is described based on certain embodiments, modifications to the embodiments (such as alterations, substitutions, additions, omissions, and / or other modifications) will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, modifications can be made to the systems and devices disclosed herein. The components of the systems and devices may be integrated or separate, or the operation of the systems and devices may be performed by more or fewer components or other components, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. As another example, modifications can be made to the methods disclosed herein. These methods may include more or fewer steps or other steps, and these steps may be performed in any suitable order, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0131] To aid the Patent Office and the reader in understanding the claims, the applicant does not intend for any claim or claim element to invoke 35 USC §112(f) unless the terms “means for…” or “steps for…” are expressly used in a particular claim. The applicant understands that the use of any other terms within the claims (e.g., “mechanism,” “module,” “device,” “unit,” “component,” “element,” “building,” “device,” “machine,” “system,” “processor,” or “controller”) refers to structures known to a person skilled in the art and is not intended to invoke 35 USC §112(f).

Claims

1. An ophthalmic laser system, comprising: Laser system, the laser system being configured as follows: A planned test pattern that accesses one or more planned laser spots; and The laser beam is guided toward a test target located on a target plane according to the planned test pattern to generate an actual test pattern of one or more actual laser spots on the test target, the one or more actual laser spots corresponding to the one or more planned laser spots, the laser system comprising: A laser source, configured to generate the laser beam; and A scanner configured to direct the laser beam toward the test target; An imaging system comprising one or more digital cameras configured to generate digital images of actual test patterns of the one or more actual laser spots; and A computer, configured to analyze the digital image to: Compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern; Detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern; Identify one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations; and Provides output in response to the one or more of the questions mentioned.

2. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 1, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: Determine multiple grayscale values ​​of multiple pixels in the digital image; Identify a subset of multiple grayscale values ​​representing the one or more actual laser spots; as well as The actual test pattern is determined based on a subset of the plurality of gray values ​​representing the one or more actual laser spots.

3. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 1, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: The dimensions present in the actual test pattern are determined based on the mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels.

4. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 1, wherein: The planned laser spot is arranged along a first planned axis orthogonal to the second planned axis; The actual laser spot is arranged along the first actual axis and the second actual axis; and The deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern include: The first actual axis is not orthogonal to the second actual axis.

5. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 4, wherein, The one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations include: The scanner is not aligned; or The laser beam and the target plane are not aligned.

6. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 1, wherein: The planned laser spot includes a first planned laser spot located at the planned laser spot interval from the second planned laser spot; The actual laser spot includes a first actual laser spot located at the actual laser spot interval from the second actual laser spot; and The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether the actual spot spacing is the same as the planned spot spacing.

7. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 6, wherein, The one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations include: The scanner was unable to properly guide the laser beam to produce the planned spot spacing.

8. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The planned test pattern has a planned geometry; The actual test pattern has an actual geometric shape; and The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether the actual geometry is the same as the planned geometry.

9. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 8, wherein, The one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations include one or more of the following: The laser beam and the target plane are not aligned; or The scanner was not aligned.

10. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 1, wherein: The planned laser spot of the planned test pattern has planned clarity; The actual laser spot of the actual test pattern has actual clarity; and The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether the actual sharpness meets the planned sharpness.

11. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 10, wherein, The one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations include one or more of the following: The system is experiencing unwanted vibrations; or The laser system is unable to properly focus the laser beam.

12. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Provides a warning indicating a problem with the laser system.

13. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Send a command to the laser system, the command resolving at least one of the one or more problems.

14. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Calculate corrections to remove deviations from one or more of the aforementioned deviations; and Generate a command to instruct the scanner to perform the correction.

15. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations include: There is a distance error when the scanner guides the laser beam; and The output in response to the one or more of the questions includes: The command to adjust the scanner to remove the distance error.

16. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 1, wherein the imaging system comprises a digital microscope.

17. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 1, wherein the computer is further configured to: Access multiple previous actual test patterns; Analyze the aforementioned multiple previous actual test patterns; and The trend of previous problems of the laser system is detected based on the multiple previous actual test patterns.

18. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 1, wherein: The one or more digital cameras are configured to generate digital calibration images showing calibration patterns of known length; and The computer is further configured to: Determine multiple calibration grayscale values ​​for multiple pixels of the digital calibration image; Identify a subset representing the known length of multiple calibrated grayscale values; and A mathematical relationship between the known length and the number of the plurality of pixels is determined based on a subset of the plurality of calibrated grayscale values ​​representing the known length.

19. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The computer is further configured to instruct the laser system by sending commands to the laser system.

20. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 19, wherein, The computer is further configured to instruct the laser system: The laser beam is guided toward the test target located on the target plane according to the planned test pattern.

21. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 19, wherein, The computer is further configured to instruct the laser system to control the laser source to generate the laser beam.

22. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 19, wherein, The computer is further configured to instruct the laser system to control the scanner to perform corrections to remove one or more of the deviations.

23. The ophthalmic laser system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The computer is coupled to the laser system via one or more connections, including wired connections, wireless connections, or telecommunications network connections.

24. An ophthalmic laser system, comprising: Laser system, the laser system being configured as follows: A planned test pattern that accesses one or more planned laser spots; and The laser beam is guided toward a test target located on a target plane according to the planned test pattern to generate an actual test pattern of one or more actual laser spots on the test target, the one or more actual laser spots corresponding to the one or more planned laser spots, the laser system comprising: A laser source, configured to generate the laser beam; and A scanner configured to direct the laser beam toward the test target; An imaging system comprising one or more digital cameras configured to generate digital images of actual test patterns of the one or more actual laser spots; and A computer, configured to analyze the digital image to: Determine multiple grayscale values ​​of multiple pixels in the digital image; Identify a subset of multiple grayscale values ​​representing the one or more actual laser spots; The actual test pattern is determined based on a subset of the plurality of gray values ​​representing the one or more actual laser spots; Compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern; The actual dimensions present in the actual test pattern are determined based on the mathematical relationship between the length and the number of the plurality of pixels. The deviation between the actual dimension present in the actual test pattern and the planned dimension present in the planned test pattern is detected; and Send a command to the scanner to correct the deviation.

25. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 24, wherein, The computer is configured to send the command to the scanner to correct the deviation in the following manner: Calculate corrections to remove the deviation; and Generate the command used to instruct the scanner to perform the correction.

26. An ophthalmic laser system, comprising: Laser system, the laser system being configured as follows: A planned test pattern of a planned laser spot is accessed, the planned laser spot having one or more planned beam characteristics; and The laser beam is guided toward a test target located on a target plane according to the planned test pattern to generate an actual test pattern of an actual laser spot on the test target, the actual laser spot corresponding to the planned laser spot, the actual laser spot having one or more actual beam characteristics, the laser system comprising: A laser source, configured to generate the laser beam; and One or more beam control devices, the beam control devices being configured to direct the laser beam toward the test target; An imaging system comprising one or more digital cameras configured to generate digital images of actual test patterns of the actual laser spot; and A computer, configured to analyze the digital image to: Compare the actual laser spot with the planned laser spot; Detect one or more deviations between the one or more actual beam characteristics and the one or more planned beam characteristics; Identify one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations; and Provides output in response to the one or more of the questions mentioned.

27. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: Determine multiple grayscale values ​​of multiple pixels in the digital image; Identify a subset of the plurality of gray values ​​representing the actual laser spot; as well as One or more actual beam characteristics of the actual laser spot are determined based on a subset of the plurality of gray values ​​representing the actual laser spot.

28. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: The dimension of the actual laser spot is determined based on the mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels.

29. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: Determine the length of each of one or more diameter chords of the actual laser spot.

30. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: Determine the first length of the first diameter chord of the actual laser spot; and Determine the second length of the second diameter chord of the actual laser spot, wherein the second diameter chord is orthogonal to the first diameter chord.

31. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to detect the one or more deviations between the one or more actual beam characteristics and the one or more planned beam characteristics in the following manner: Determine the actual diameter of the actual laser spot; Compare the actual diameter with the planned diameter of the planned laser spot; and Determine whether the actual diameter differs from the planned diameter.

32. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to detect the one or more deviations between the one or more actual beam characteristics and the one or more planned beam characteristics in the following manner: Determine the actual shape of the actual laser spot; Compare the actual shape with the planned shape of the planned laser spot; and Determine whether the actual shape differs from the planned shape.

33. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to detect the one or more deviations between the one or more actual beam characteristics and the one or more planned beam characteristics in the following manner: Determine the actual sharpness of the actual laser spot; Compare the actual sharpness with the planned sharpness of the planned laser spot; and Determine whether the actual sharpness differs from the planned sharpness.

34. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to identify the one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations in the following manner: Identify the beam control device among the one or more beam control devices that failed to properly guide the laser beam to the test target.

35. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 34, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: The beam control device is instructed to correctly guide the laser beam to the test target.

36. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to identify the one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations in the following manner: It was determined that the laser beam was not aligned with the target plane.

37. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 36, wherein, The computer is configured to provide output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: The laser system is instructed to align the laser beam with the target plane.

38. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Provides a warning indicating a problem with the laser system.

39. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Send a command to the laser system, the command resolving at least one of the one or more problems.

40. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Calculate corrections to remove deviations from one or more of the aforementioned deviations; and Generate a command to instruct the laser system to perform the correction.

41. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein the imaging system comprises a digital microscope.

42. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein the computer is further configured to: Access multiple previous actual test patterns; Analyze the aforementioned multiple previous actual test patterns; and The trend of previous problems of the laser system is detected based on the multiple previous actual test patterns.

43. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 26, wherein: The one or more digital cameras are configured to generate digital calibration images showing calibration patterns of known length; and The computer is configured to determine a mathematical relationship between the known length of the digitally calibrated image and the number of a plurality of pixels.

44. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 43, wherein, The computer is configured to determine the mathematical relation in the following manner: Determine multiple calibration grayscale values ​​for multiple pixels of the digital calibration image; Identify a subset representing multiple calibrated grayscale values ​​of the known length; as well as The mathematical relationship between the known length and the number of the plurality of pixels is determined based on a subset of the plurality of calibrated grayscale values ​​representing the known length.

45. An ophthalmic laser system, comprising: An auxiliary optical system, wherein the auxiliary optical system is configured as follows: According to the planned test pattern, the auxiliary light is directed toward the test target located at the target plane to generate one or more actual auxiliary light spots of the actual test pattern on the test target. The planned test pattern indicates one or more planned auxiliary light spots positioned relative to the planned laser light spot in a predetermined manner. The actual auxiliary light spots in the one or more actual auxiliary light spots correspond to the planned auxiliary light spots in the one or more planned auxiliary light spots. Laser system, the laser system being configured as follows: The laser beam is guided toward the test target according to the planned test pattern to generate an actual laser spot of the actual test pattern on the test target, the actual laser spot corresponding to the planned laser spot of the planned test pattern; An imaging system, the imaging system comprising one or more digital cameras configured to generate digital images of the actual test pattern; as well as A computer, configured to analyze the digital image to: Compare the actual test pattern with the planned test pattern; Detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern; Identify one or more problems indicated by the one or more deviations; and Provides output in response to the one or more of the questions mentioned.

46. ​​The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: Determine multiple grayscale values ​​of multiple pixels in the digital image; Identify a subset of multiple gray values ​​representing the one or more actual auxiliary light spots; as well as The one or more actual auxiliary light spots are analyzed based on a subset of the plurality of gray values ​​representing the one or more actual auxiliary light spots.

47. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein, The computer is configured to analyze the digital image in the following manner: The dimension of the actual auxiliary spot in the one or more actual auxiliary spots is determined based on the mathematical relationship between the length of the digital image and the number of pixels.

48. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein, The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether the one or more actual auxiliary light spots are positioned relative to the actual laser light spot in the predetermined manner.

49. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein: The auxiliary light includes a targeting beam; The planned test pattern indicates that the planned auxiliary spot among the one or more planned auxiliary spots is located at the planned laser spot; and The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether the actual auxiliary spot corresponding to the planned auxiliary spot is located at the actual laser spot.

50. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 49, wherein, The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine the length of the deviation between the actual auxiliary light spot and the actual laser light spot.

51. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 49, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: The auxiliary optical system is instructed to move the aiming beam so that the actual auxiliary spot is located at the actual laser spot.

52. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein: The auxiliary light includes a fixed beam; The planned test pattern indicates that the planned auxiliary spot among the one or more planned auxiliary spots is located at the planned laser spot; and The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether the actual auxiliary spot corresponding to the planned auxiliary spot is located at the actual laser spot.

53. The ophthalmic laser system as described in claim 52, wherein, The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine the length of the deviation between the actual auxiliary light spot and the actual laser light spot.

54. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 52, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: The auxiliary optical system is instructed to move the aiming beam so that the actual auxiliary spot is located at the actual laser spot.

55. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein: The auxiliary light includes multiple distance beams; The planned test pattern indicates that at least two of the one or more planned auxiliary spots are superimposed; and The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine whether at least two of the one or more actual auxiliary light spots are superimposed.

56. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 55, wherein, The computer is configured to detect one or more deviations between the actual test pattern and the planned test pattern in the following manner: Determine the length of the deviation between at least two actual auxiliary spots in the one or more actual auxiliary spots.

57. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 55, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: The auxiliary optical system is instructed to move the distance beam such that at least two of the one or more actual auxiliary light spots are superimposed.

58. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Provides a warning indicating a problem with the laser system.

59. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Send a command to the laser system, the command resolving at least one of the one or more problems.

60. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein, The computer is configured to provide the output in response to the one or more questions in the following manner: Calculate corrections to remove deviations from one or more of the aforementioned deviations; and Generate a command to instruct the laser system to perform the correction.

61. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein the imaging system comprises a digital microscope.

62. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein the computer is further configured to: Access multiple previous actual test patterns; Analyze the aforementioned multiple previous actual test patterns; and The trend of previous problems of the laser system is detected based on the multiple previous actual test patterns.

63. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 45, wherein: The one or more digital cameras are configured to generate digital calibration images showing calibration patterns of known length; and The computer is configured to determine a mathematical relationship between the known length of the digitally calibrated image and the number of a plurality of pixels.

64. The ophthalmic laser system of claim 63, wherein, The computer is configured to determine the mathematical relation in the following manner: Determine multiple calibration grayscale values ​​for multiple pixels of the digital calibration image; Identify a subset representing multiple calibrated grayscale values ​​of the known length; as well as The mathematical relationship between the known length and the number of the plurality of pixels is determined based on a subset of the plurality of calibrated grayscale values ​​representing the known length.

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