Self-guided ophthalmic examination system

Abstract

The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system comprises an ophthalmic examination interface module mounted on a linear-motion actuator, which is configured to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along a vertical axis. The ophthalmic examination interface module includes a housing having at least one window on the front, a frame inside the housing, and at least one ophthalmic examination device mounted on the frame and accessible from outside the housing. At least one ophthalmic examination device is configured to examine at least one aspect of the user's health condition. At least one graphical user interface is configured to guide the user when operating a self-guided ophthalmic examination system without the assistance of a caregiver. The processor is configured to have the ophthalmic examination device examine aspects of the user's health and provide feedback to the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to an ophthalmic examination system, and more specifically, to a self-guided ophthalmic examination system.

Background Art

[0002] In the case of early detection, about 95% of blindness can be prevented. Therefore, it is beneficial for patients to undergo regular ophthalmic examinations to grasp the health status of their eyes and receive treatment or corrective medical measures as needed. However, most ophthalmic examinations require a visit to an ophthalmic hospital, where an ophthalmologist examines the patient's eyes using various special cameras and examination equipment and makes a diagnosis based on the examination results. However, many patients feel that it is inconvenient and difficult to make such appointments and travel back and forth for examinations. As a result, many patients may not continue to visit an ophthalmologist regularly and may miss the opportunity to detect early eye health problems that could lead to blindness or other visual impairments.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a more convenient and easier ophthalmic examination system that does not require patients to make appointments at an ophthalmic hospital. Thus, the ophthalmic examination system described herein is a self-guided ophthalmic examination system that can be operated by a user without the assistance of an assistant or an ophthalmologist, providing a convenient and comfortable user experience. This self-guided ophthalmic examination system is configured to perform an ophthalmic examination and provide feedback to the user regarding the ophthalmic examination results. For example, the self-guided ophthalmic examination system may refer the user to a healthcare provider for necessary follow-up medical treatment. Furthermore, because the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system has a modular and compact structure, it can be transported and installed in convenient locations that users are likely to visit regularly, such as retail stores, pharmacies, and grocery stores. This would increase opportunities for users to examine their own eye health using self-guided ophthalmic examination systems, enabling early detection of diseases and supporting users' health management in efforts to prevent preventable blindness. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system includes an ophthalmic examination interface module attached to a linear actuator. The linear actuator is configured to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis. Furthermore, the ophthalmic examination interface module includes a housing having at least one window on its front, an internal frame within the housing, and at least one ophthalmic examination device mounted on the internal frame of the housing and accessible from the outside of the housing through at least one window on the front of the housing. At least one ophthalmic examination device is configured to examine at least one aspect of the user's health condition. Furthermore, the self-guided ophthalmic examination system includes at least one graphical user interface configured to guide the user when operating the self-guided ophthalmic examination system without the assistance of an assistant, and a processor configured to cause at least one ophthalmic examination device to examine at least one aspect of the user's health condition and to provide feedback to the user on at least one graphical user interface based on at least one result of the at least one aspect of the user's health condition.

[0005] According to embodiments of the present invention, the ophthalmic examination interface module is manually movable so as to ensure proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system, by the user manually operating a linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along a vertical axis.

[0006] According to embodiments of the present invention, the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module includes at least one handle. Furthermore, this handle ensures proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system by manually operating a linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis.

[0007] According to embodiments of the present invention, the processor is configured to ensure proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module with respect to the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system by variably operating a linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along a vertical axis.

[0008] According to embodiments of the present invention, the self-guided ophthalmic examination system further comprises an artificial intelligence camera, the artificial intelligence camera is configured to detect at least one feature of a user, and is configured to ensure proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module to the user during operation of the self-guided ophthalmic examination system by having a processor automatically operate a linear actuator based on the at least one feature of the user to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along a vertical axis.

[0009] According to embodiments of the present invention, the graphical user interface includes a user height input, and based on this user height input, the processor automatically operates a linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis, thereby ensuring proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module relative to the user during operation of the self-guided ophthalmic examination system.

[0010] According to embodiments of the present invention, the self-inducting ophthalmic examination system further comprises a user-controlled activation device that is accessible from outside the housing and connected to a processor. Furthermore, this user-controlled activation device is configured to ensure proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system by having the processor operate a linear actuator based on activation by the user, thereby moving the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis.

[0011] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one ophthalmic examination device comprises at least one retinal camera, an automatic refractometer, and a visual acuity testing device, wherein at least one aspect of the user's health condition comprises at least one of the user's retinal image, the user's refractive error, and the user's visual acuity.

[0012] According to embodiments of the present invention, the visual acuity testing device includes a curved tunnel having a series of straight sections. Furthermore, the curved tunnel has a light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display at its first end and a visual acuity display at its second end. This light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display is configured to project visual acuity symbols within a curved tunnel. Furthermore, the vision testing device includes mirrors at each corner between several adjacent straight sections of the curved tunnel. Each mirror is configured to reflect the visual acuity symbols emitted by the light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display toward the visual acuity display. Furthermore, this vision display is visible from outside the housing on the front of the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module and is configured to display vision symbols emitted by a light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display.

[0013] According to embodiments of the present invention, the curved tunnel forms a path between a light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display and a visual acuity display having a distance ranging from 149.20 centimeters to 161.90 centimeters.

[0014] According to embodiments of the present invention, the self-guided ophthalmic examination system further comprises an artificial intelligence camera configured to detect the user's position relative to a vision display. The processor is configured to ensure that the user is positioned within a range of 38.10 centimeters to 50.80 centimeters from the vision display by instructing the user to move toward the vision display, at least via a graphical user interface, based on the user's detected position.

[0015] According to embodiments of the present invention, the artificial intelligence camera is configured to detect the user's posture. The processor is then configured to ensure that the requirements of the vision testing device are met by instructing the user to adjust their posture via a graphical user interface based on the detected posture.

[0016] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one ophthalmic examination device includes at least one shielding member that protects at least a portion of the at least one ophthalmic examination device when not in use.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one shielding member includes at least one bellows member that covers a gap between at least one ophthalmic examination device and a peripheral portion of at least one window within a housing.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one shielding member includes a retractable shielding member that is movable between a storage position and a shielding position.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the retractable shielding member includes a motor, at least one gear rotatable by the motor, and a movable door having a series of gear holes, wherein at least one gear is configured to engage with the movable door through the series of gear holes. When the motor rotates at least one gear in a first direction, the at least one gear engages with a series of gear holes of the movable door and winds the movable door around the at least one gear, thereby configuring the retractable shielding member to move from the shielding position to the storage position. When the motor rotates at least one gear in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the at least one gear engages with a series of gear holes of the movable door, unwinds the movable door from around the at least one gear, and configures the retractable door to move from the storage position to the shielding position.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module includes a proximity sensor on the bottom surface of the housing. The proximity sensor is configured to detect the presence of an object within a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the housing, and to cause a linear actuator to prevent the ophthalmic examination interface module from moving along the vertical axis to contact the object.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module includes a bumper on the bottom surface of the housing.

[0022] According to embodiments of the present invention, the bumper includes a contact sensor configured to detect contact between the bumper and an object.

[0023] According to embodiments of the present invention, the linear-acting actuator is mounted on an independent structure.

[0024] According to embodiments of the present invention, the structure includes a rear frame to which a linear actuator is attached, an overhang attached to the upper end of the rear frame and cantilevered over an ophthalmic examination interface module, and two side walls attached to the lower end of the rear frame and extending perpendicularly from the rear frame. The rear frame, awning, and two side walls define the operating space where the ophthalmic examination interface module is located.

[0025] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one of the two side walls includes at least one handrail.

[0026] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one of the two side walls includes an integrated storage unit.

[0027] According to embodiments of the present invention, the integrated storage unit includes at least one of a disinfectant wipe paper dispenser and a trash can.

[0028] According to embodiments of the present invention, the self-inducting ophthalmic examination system further comprises a plurality of leg rings on the bottom and two side walls of the dorsal frame.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the linear-motion actuator is mounted on a desktop stand.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the linear-motion actuator is mounted on the ceiling.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the linear-motion actuator is mounted on a wall.

[0032] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one graphical user interface is provided on the front of the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module.

[0033] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one graphical user interface is provided on the mobile device.

[0034] According to embodiments of the present invention, the ophthalmic examination interface module further includes a display screen on the front of the housing.

[0035] According to embodiments of the present invention, the ophthalmic examination interface module further includes at least one speaker on the front of the housing.

[0036] According to embodiments of the present invention, the processor is further configured to communicate at least one result of at least one aspect of the user's health condition to a remote physician for evaluation.

[0037] According to embodiments of the present invention, the processor is configured to provide the user with feedback in the form of a referral letter to a remote physician based on at least one outcome of at least one aspect of the user's health condition.

[0038] The following description and accompanying drawings illustrate in detail certain exemplary embodiments described herein. However, these embodiments represent only a fraction of the various ways in which the principles of this disclosure can be applied. Other objectives, advantages, and novel features will become clear when the following detailed explanation is examined in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0039] The attached drawings illustrate various aspects of this disclosure.

[0040] [Figure 1] Anterior oblique view of a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0041] [Figure 2] A posterior oblique view of a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0042] [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0043] [Figure 4] Anterior oblique view of the ophthalmic examination device in a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0044] [Figure 5] Anterior oblique view of another ophthalmic examination device in a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0045] [Figure 6] Anterior oblique view of another ophthalmic examination device in a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0046] [Figure 7] A posterior oblique view of the ophthalmic examination device in Figure 6, a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0047] [Figure 8] Anterior oblique view of the ophthalmic examination device in a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0048] [Figure 9] A side cross-sectional view of the ophthalmic examination device in Figure 8, a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0049] [Figure 10] Exploded views of the shielding members for the ophthalmic examination device in the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0050] [Figure 11] Anterior strabismus view of another self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

[0051] [Figure 12] Bottom perspective view of a structure for a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0052] First, referring to Figures 1 to 3, a self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 is shown. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 from the front, and Figure 2 is a perspective view of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 from the rear. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the self-induction ophthalmic examination system 10. Here, the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 includes an ophthalmic examination interface module 12 attached to a linear-motion actuator 14. The linear actuator 14 is configured to move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16 to accommodate the varying heights of users using the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10. For example, the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may move along the vertical axis 16 to accommodate situations where the user is seated (e.g., in a chair or wheelchair) or standing at various heights. By moving the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16, proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 relative to the user is ensured.

[0053] The ophthalmic examination interface module 12 includes a housing 18 having at least one window 20 on its front surface 22. The frame 24 is located inside the housing 18, and at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 is attached to the frame 24 inside the housing 18. Specifically, the linear-motion actuator 14 is attached to the frame 24 such that it moves the frame 24 along the vertical axis 16. This causes the housing 18 and at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 to move evenly along the vertical axis 16.

[0054] As shown in Figure 1, at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 is accessible from the outside of the housing 18 through at least one window 20 on the front 22 of the housing 18 for use by the user, and may also be exposed to the outside through a rear opening of the housing 18, as shown in Figure 2. At least one ophthalmic examination device 26 is configured to examine at least one aspect of the user's health condition while the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 is in operation. For example, at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 may include at least one of a retinal camera 28, an automated refractometer 30, and a visual acuity testing device 32. Therefore, at least one aspect of the user's health condition may include at least one of the following: an image of the user's retina (acquired by the retinal camera 28), the user's refractive error (acquired by the automatic refractometer 30), and the user's visual acuity (acquired by the visual acuity testing device 32). However, the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may incorporate additional or alternative ophthalmic examination devices, and it should be understood that the devices described above are given as non-limiting examples. In addition, other health-related testing devices such as blood pressure monitors, scales, and electrocardiograms may be incorporated into the ophthalmic examination interface module 12, as an example of a non-limiting designation.

[0055] Referring to Figure 3, the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 also includes a processor 34 configured to cause at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 to examine at least one aspect of the user's health condition. When examining at least one aspect of the user's health condition, at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 communicates at least one result of at least one aspect of the user's health condition to the processor 34. Subsequently, the processor 34 is configured to provide feedback to the user based on at least one outcome of at least one aspect of the user's health condition. Specifically, the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 also includes at least one graphical user interface 36 configured to guide the user when operating the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10 without the assistance of a caregiver or medical professional. Therefore, the processor 34 may provide feedback to the user through at least one graphical user interface 36. For example, the processor 34 may provide the user with feedback in the form of a referral letter to a remote doctor based on at least one outcome of at least one aspect of the user's health condition. For example, the feedback may include the user's visual acuity, the user's refractive error, and / or images of the user's retinal scan. If the test is performed in a clinical setting, the feedback may include a diagnosis. However, the processor 34 may also be configured to communicate at least one result to a remote physician for evaluation and diagnosis. This ensures that if the user later contacts the remote doctor they were referred to, the remote doctor will have at least one of these results and will be able to provide the user with appropriate treatment based on this result. For example, the processor 34 may be configured to communicate at least one result to a remote physician via a hardware internet connection (e.g., using an Ethernet connection), a wireless connection, or a cellular internet connection.

[0056] As shown in Figure 1, at least one graphical user interface 36 may be provided on the front surface 22 of the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12, or it may be provided additionally or alternatively on the user's mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. The ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may include a display screen 37 configured to display various retail advertisements and other graphical displays, and may also be connected to a processor 34 to provide feedback to the user. The ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may include at least one speaker on the front 22 of the housing 18 to provide audio feedback to the user while the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 is in operation.

[0057] Furthermore, this ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may be manually moved by the user to accommodate the user's height. Specifically, the user may, for example, grasp the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 and move the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 to manually operate the linear actuator 14 and move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16. The housing 18 may include at least one handle 19 that assists the user in moving the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16 by operating a linear actuator 14 by grasping and moving the housing 18. Thus, the user may ensure proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 for the user while the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10 is in operation by manually moving the ophthalmic examination interface module 12.

[0058] In another embodiment, the processor 34 is configured to ensure proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 relative to the user during operation of the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10, according to the user's height, by variably operating the linear actuator 14 to automatically move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16. For example, the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10 may include an artificial intelligence camera 38 on the front surface 22 of the housing 18, and the artificial intelligence camera 38 may be configured to detect at least one feature of the user and, based on this detected feature of the user, to cause a processor 34 to automatically operate a linear actuator 14 to move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along a vertical axis 16, thereby ensuring proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 with respect to the user during operation of the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10. Furthermore, at least one graphical user interface 36 may include a user height input. Based on user height input entered by the user into at least one graphical user interface 36, the at least one graphical user interface 36 automatically operates a linear actuator 14 on the processor 34 to move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16, thereby ensuring proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 with respect to the user during operation of the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10. Furthermore, the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 may include a user-controlled activation device 40 that is accessible from outside the housing 18 and connected to the processor 34. Furthermore, the user-controlled activation device 40 may be configured to ensure proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 by having the processor 34 operate a linear actuator 14 to move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16, based on activation by the user. For example, the user-controlled activation device 40 may include a plurality of directional buttons or toggles for controlling the direction of movement of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12.

[0059] Referring to Figure 4, the automatic refractometer 30 is shown as the ophthalmic examination device 26 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. The automatic refractometer 30 is configured to evaluate the user's refractive error by shining light into the user's eye and measuring the change in the light reflected from the back of the eyeball (the user's retina). Furthermore, the automatic refractometer 30 displays images to the user that show whether or not the focus is correct, and determines whether or not the eye is properly focused by performing multiple measurements based on the reflected light. Therefore, the automatic refractometer 30 has a face fixing frame 42 that fixes the user's face in a predetermined position relative to the automatic refractometer 30, thereby enabling the automatic refractometer 30 to perform such measurements. The face fixing frame 42 includes a chin rest 44 on which the user rests their chin, and an eye fixing frame 46 that fixes the user's eyes in an appropriate position for such measurement by the automatic refractometer 30. The automatic refractometer 30 is largely housed within the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12, but the face-fixing frame 42 of the automatic refractometer 30 is accessible from the outside of the housing 18 through at least one window 20 on the front 22 of the housing 18, thereby allowing the user to access the face-fixing frame 42 of the automatic refractometer 30.

[0060] Figure 5 shows a retinal camera 28 as another ophthalmic examination device 26 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. The retinal camera 28 is configured to acquire images of the user's retina for the evaluation and diagnosis of retinopathy, that is, vascular damage to the photosensitive tissue of the retina. Furthermore, the retinal camera 28 includes an eye support 48 that receives and supports the user's eye while the retinal camera 28 is in operation. The retinal camera 28 is largely housed within the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12, but the eye support portion 48 of the retinal camera 28 is accessible from the outside of the housing 18 through at least one window 20 on the front surface 22 of the housing 18, thereby allowing the user to access the eye support portion 48 of the retinal camera 28.

[0061] Figures 6 and 7 show a visual acuity testing device 32 as another exemplary ophthalmic examination device 26 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. The vision testing device 32 is configured to measure the user's visual acuity. Furthermore, the visual acuity testing device 32 includes a curved tunnel 50 having a series of straight sections 52, forming a short path with a distance ranging from 149.20 centimeters to 161.90 centimeters (e.g., 154.28 centimeters), enabling appropriate visual acuity testing. The curved tunnel 50 includes a liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54 at a first end 55 of the curved tunnel 50, and a visual acuity display 56 at a second end 57 of the curved tunnel 50. The liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54 is configured to emit a visual acuity symbol 58 into the curved tunnel 50 from the first end 55 of the curved tunnel 50. Furthermore, mirrors 60 are provided at each corner between the multiple adjacent straight sections 52 of the curved tunnel 50, and at the location of the last straight section 52 adjacent to the vision display 56. Each mirror 60 is configured to reflect the vision symbols 58 emitted by the liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54 through the path of the curved tunnel 50 to the vision display 56 at the second end 57 of the curved tunnel 50. In this way, the visual acuity symbols 58 emitted from the liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54 at the first end 55 of the curved tunnel 50 may be reflected by the visual acuity display 56 at the second end 57 of the curved tunnel 50. The visual acuity testing device 32, which includes a curved tunnel 50 and a liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54, is largely housed within the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. However, the visual acuity display 56 of the visual acuity testing device 32 is visible from outside the housing 18 through at least one window 20 on the front 22 of the housing 18, so that the visual acuity display 56 is configured to display visual acuity symbols 58 emitted by the liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54 to the user while the visual acuity testing device 32 is in operation. It should be understood that the curved tunnel 50, which has a series of straight sections 52, a liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54, and a mirror 60, is provided as a non-limiting example for defining a certain distance. For example, various distances may be defined using methods and techniques that involve lenses or parabolic mirrors. Furthermore, it should be understood that other types of light projection devices may be used instead of, or in addition to, the liquid crystal display or light-emitting diode display 54.

[0062] As briefly mentioned above, the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may include an artificial intelligence camera 38. Furthermore, the artificial intelligence camera 38 may be configured to detect the user's position relative to the vision display 56. The processor 34 may be configured to position the user within a range of 38.10 centimeters to 50.80 centimeters, for example 45.72 centimeters, from the vision display 56, by instructing the user to move toward the vision display 56 via at least one graphical user interface 36 or at least one speaker, based on the user's detected position relative to the vision display 56, thereby ensuring a proper examination by the vision testing device 32. The artificial intelligence camera 38 may also detect the user's posture, including the position of the user's limbs relative to the user's body. For example, in order to perform a proper vision test, the user must cover one eye while the other eye is being tested. Therefore, in order to ensure that the requirements for a proper vision test are met, the artificial intelligence camera 38 may be configured to detect whether the user is properly covering each eye while the vision testing device 32 is in operation. The processor 34 may be configured to ensure that the requirements of the vision testing device 32 are met by instructing the user to adjust their posture based on the detected user posture, via at least one graphical user interface 36 or at least one speaker. Specifically, if the user's posture does not meet the requirements of the vision testing device 32 (for example, if the user is not covering one eye), the processor 34 may be configured to instruct the user to adjust their posture to ensure that the requirements are met (for example, by covering one eye) before allowing the vision testing device 32 to test the user's vision.

[0063] At least one of the ophthalmic examination devices 26 (e.g., an automatic refractometer 30, a retinal camera 28, and / or a visual acuity testing device 32) may include a shielding member to protect at least one of the ophthalmic examination devices 26 when not in use. For example, at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 may include a bellows-like member 62 that covers the gap between at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 and the periphery of at least one window 20, as shown in the retinal camera 28 of Figure 5. Furthermore, referring to the automatic refractometer 30 shown in Figures 8 to 10, at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 may include a retractable shielding member 64. Furthermore, this retractable shielding member 64 is movable between a retracted position and a shielded position between the face fixing frame 42 and the rest of the automatic refractometer 30 housed in the housing 18. As shown in the figure, the retractable shielding member 64 may include a motor 66 configured to rotate at least one gear 68 and a movable door 70 that can engage with at least one gear 68. When the motor 66 rotates at least one gear 68, the at least one gear 68 engages with the movable door 70, for example, by engaging with a series of gear holes 72 of the movable door 70, and moves the retractable shielding member 64 from the shielded position to the retracted position by winding the movable door 70 around the gear 86. Furthermore, in order to move the retractable shielding member 64 from the retracted position to the shielded position, the motor 66 is configured to rotate the gear 68 in the opposite direction, thereby unwinding the movable door 70 from around the gear 68. Thus, when the automatic refractometer 30 is not in use, the processor 34 is configured to issue a command to move the retractable shielding member 64 to the shielding position, and when the user wants to use the automatic refractometer 30, the processor 34 is configured to issue a command to move the retractable shielding member 64 to the retracted position.

[0064] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the linear actuator 14 may be attached to an independent structure 88, thereby integrating the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 with the independent structure 88. Alternatively, the linear-motion actuator 14 may be mounted on a tabletop stand 90 as shown in Figure 11, or it may be mounted on a wall or suspended from the ceiling. As shown in Figure 2, the structure 88 includes a rear frame 92 to which the linear actuator 14 is attached. The visor 94 is attached to the upper end 95 of the rear frame 92 and is cantilevered over the ophthalmic examination interface module 12, which is mounted in front of the rear frame 92. Furthermore, this awning 94 is configured to create a controlled lighting environment for the operation of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. The structure 88 also includes two side walls 96 that are attached to the lower end 97 of the rear frame 92 and extend vertically from the rear frame 92. Therefore, the rear frame 92, the awning 94, and the two side walls 96 define an operating space in which the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 is located and in which the user can stand or sit when operating the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. At least one of the two side walls 96 may include at least one handrail 98 that the user can grasp to stabilize their posture and determine their orientation relative to the ophthalmic examination interface module 12. The front portion 102 of each side wall 96 may be detachably attached to the rest of the side wall 96 so that each front portion 102 can be removed when transporting the structure 88, for example, when passing through an entrance or exit. Any surface of the structure 88, including the awning 94, side walls 96, and rear frame 92, may be used for retail advertising or other graphic displays.

[0065] At least one of the two side walls 96 and / or at least one handrail 98 may include at least one integrated storage unit 100. For example, at least one integrated storage unit 100 may include at least one disinfectant wipe paper dispenser and a trash can. For example, as shown in Figure 1, one side of the handrail 98 may include an integrated disinfectant wipe dispenser, and the other side of the handrail 98 may include an integrated trash can for disposing of used disinfectant wipes.

[0066] The ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may have a proximity sensor 104 located on the bottom surface 23 of the housing 18. Furthermore, the proximity sensor 104 is configured to detect the presence of an object within a predetermined distance from the bottom surface 23 of the housing 18, and the processor 34 is configured to cause the linear actuator 14 to move the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 along the vertical axis 16 to prevent it from coming into contact with an object. Thus, the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 is configured to prevent the user from being injured or bumped into while the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 is in operation, when the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 moves. Furthermore, the housing 18 of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 may include a bumper 106 on the bottom surface 23 of the housing 18 in case the proximity sensor 104 malfunctions. Furthermore, this bumper 106 is made of a soft material that reduces the impact if the ophthalmic examination interface module 12 comes into contact with an object while moving. Furthermore, the bumper 106 may include a contact sensor 108 configured to detect contact with an object and instruct the processor 34 to stop the linear actuator 14, thereby stopping the movement of the ophthalmic examination interface module 12.

[0067] The structure 88 is configured to be easily moved and transported. For example, referring to Figure 12, the structure 88 may include a plurality of leg wheels 110 on the bottom and side walls 96 of the rear frame 92. Each of these multiple leg wheels 110 is configured to unfold so that the structure 88 rolls on the leg wheel 110, and to retract so that the structure 88 stops on the floor. For example, at least some of the multiple leg wheels 110 may be deployable or retractable quick-release (step-down) leg wheels, allowing the structure 88 to be easily secured in place or released for movement.

[0068] In any embodiment of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 (for example, the structure 88, the tabletop stand 90, the wall mount, the ceiling mount, or any other mounting method), the user can operate the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 without the assistance of an assistant or physician to undergo one or more tests on at least one aspect of their health condition. Specifically, the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10 may include a non-temporary computer-readable medium that stores program code, which, when executed by the processor 34, guides the user through the graphical user interface 36 and / or at least one speaker to operate the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10. Furthermore, this non-temporary computer-readable medium may be configured to store the user's test results and create the user's health profile. In this way, users can undergo regular or continuous examinations with the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system 10, track changes in their eye health over time, and access their personal medical and health records via a graphical user interface 36. For example, when a user starts operating the self-guided ophthalmic examination system 10, they may enter a username and password into the graphical user interface 36 to access their personal medical records and user profile. Alternatively, users may access their personal medical and health records via passwordless registration such as short message service (SMS) or QR codes. Non-temporary computer-readable media may be configured to adaptively screen users operating the self-induction ophthalmic examination system 10 based on triage rules, classify them into various categories, and update the user's status for continued use by the user.

[0069] During the operation of the self-induction ophthalmic examination system 10, a non-transient computer-readable medium may be configured to ask the user various health-related questions, such as symptoms or other recent health conditions, via a graphical user interface 36. A non-temporary computer-readable medium may provide the user with one or more examinations using at least one ophthalmic examination device 26. The user can select one or more tests, and a non-temporary computer-readable medium is configured to guide the user through the operation of at least one ophthalmic examination device 26, as described above. Once one or more examinations using at least one ophthalmic examination device 26 are completed, a non-transient computer-readable medium is configured to provide feedback to the user via the graphical user interface 36, as described above, and / or to send at least one result to a remote physician.

[0070] While certain preferred embodiments are shown and described in the above disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art, upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings, that equivalent changes and modifications can be made. In particular, with respect to the various functions performed by the aforementioned elements (components, assemblies, devices, compositions, etc.), the terms used to describe such elements (including references to “methods”) are intended, unless otherwise specified, to correspond to any element that performs a particular function of the described element (i.e., is functionally equivalent) to a disclosed structure that performs a function in the exemplary embodiments shown herein, even if it is not structurally equivalent to such a structure. Furthermore, although certain features have been described above for only one or more embodiments of the multiple embodiments, such features may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments to be desirable and advantageous in any particular application.

Claims

1. A self-guided ophthalmic examination system in which a linear-motion actuator moves an ophthalmic examination interface module attached to the linear-motion actuator along a vertical axis, The aforementioned ophthalmic examination interface module, A housing having at least one window on the front, The internal frame of the housing, At least one ophthalmic examination device, which is mounted on the frame inside the housing and accessible from the outside of the housing through at least one window on the front of the housing, for examining at least one aspect of the user's health condition, Including an ophthalmic examination interface module, At least one graphical user interface that guides the user when the user operates the self-guided ophthalmic examination system without the assistance of an assistant, A self-induction ophthalmic examination system comprising: a processor that causes the at least one ophthalmic examination device to examine the at least one aspect of the user's health condition, and provides feedback to the user on the at least one graphical user interface based on the results of the at least one aspect of the user's health condition.

2. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 1, wherein the ophthalmic examination interface module is manually movable so as to ensure proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system, by the user manually operating the linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis.

3. The housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module includes at least one handle, A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the handle ensures proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module to the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system by manually operating the linear actuator to manually move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis.

4. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 1, wherein the processor variably operates the linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis, thereby ensuring proper positioning of the ophthalmic examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

5. The self-guided ophthalmological examination system according to claim 4, further comprising an artificial intelligence camera that detects at least one characteristic of the user and, based on the at least one characteristic of the user, causes the processor to automatically operate the linear actuator to move the ophthalmological examination interface module along the vertical axis, thereby ensuring proper positioning of the ophthalmological examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-guided ophthalmological examination system.

6. A self-inductive ophthalmology system according to any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein the graphical user interface includes a user height input, and based on the user height input, the processor automatically operates the linear actuator to move the ophthalmology interface module along the vertical axis, thereby ensuring proper alignment of the ophthalmology interface module to the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmology system.

7. The housing further comprises a user-controlled startup device accessible from the outside and connected to the processor, A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the user-controlled activation device, based on activation by the user, causes the processor to operate the linear actuator to move the ophthalmic examination interface module along the vertical axis, thereby ensuring proper alignment of the ophthalmic examination interface module for the user during operation of the self-inductive ophthalmic examination system.

8. The aforementioned at least one ophthalmic examination device includes at least one retinal camera, an automatic refractometer, and a visual acuity testing device. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one aspect of the user's health condition includes, respectively, at least one of the user's retinal image, the user's refractive error, and the user's visual acuity.

9. The aforementioned visual acuity testing device, A curved tunnel having a series of straight sections, having a light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display at the first end of the curved tunnel, and a vision display at the second end of the curved tunnel, wherein the light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display emits vision symbols within the curved tunnel, The curved tunnel includes, at each corner between a plurality of adjacent straight sections, a mirror that reflects the visual acuity symbols emitted by the light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display toward the visual acuity display, The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 8, wherein the visual acuity display is visible from outside the housing on the front of the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module and is configured to display the visual acuity symbols emitted by the light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display.

10. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 9, wherein the curved tunnel forms a path between the light-emitting diode display or liquid crystal display and the vision display having a distance in the range of 149.20 centimeters to 161.90 centimeters.

11. The system further includes an artificial intelligence camera that detects the user's position relative to the vision display, A self-guided ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the processor is configured to ensure that the user is positioned within a range of 38.10 centimeters to 50.80 centimeters from the vision display by instructing the user to move toward the vision display, at least via the graphical user interface, based on the user's detected position.

12. The aforementioned artificial intelligence camera detects the user's posture, The self-guided ophthalmic examination system according to claim 11, wherein the processor ensures that the requirements of the visual acuity examination device are met by instructing the user to adjust the posture via the graphical user interface based on the detected posture.

13. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one ophthalmic examination device includes at least one shielding member that protects at least a portion of the at least one ophthalmic examination device when it is not in use.

14. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 13, wherein the at least one shielding member includes at least one bellows-like member that covers the gap between the at least one ophthalmic examination device and the periphery of the at least one window in the housing.

15. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein the at least one shielding member includes a retractable shielding member that is movable between a storage position and a shielding position.

16. The retractable shielding member is Motor and, At least one gear rotatable by the motor, A movable door having a series of gear holes, wherein at least one gear engages with the movable door through the series of gear holes, The motor is configured such that when it rotates the at least one gear in a first direction, the at least one gear engages with the series of gear holes in the movable door, causing the movable door to wrap around the at least one gear, thereby moving the retractable shielding member from the shielding position to the retracted position. The self-inducting ophthalmic examination system according to claim 15, wherein when the motor rotates the at least one gear in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the at least one gear engages with the series of gear holes in the movable door, unwinding the movable door from around the at least one gear and moving the retractable door from the retracted position to the shielded position.

17. The housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module includes a proximity sensor on the bottom surface of the housing. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the proximity sensor detects the presence of an object within a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the housing, and the processor instructs the linear actuator to prevent the ophthalmic examination interface module from moving along the vertical axis and coming into contact with the object.

18. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module includes a bumper on the bottom surface of the housing.

19. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 18, wherein the bumper includes a contact sensor for detecting contact between the bumper and an object.

20. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the linear actuator is mounted on an independent structure.

21. The structure includes a rear frame to which the linear actuator is attached, an overhang attached to the upper end of the rear frame and cantilevered over the ophthalmic examination interface module, and two side walls attached to the lower end of the rear frame and extending vertically from the rear frame. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to claim 20, wherein the rear frame, the awning, and the two side walls define an operating space in which the ophthalmic examination interface module is located.

22. The self-guided ophthalmic examination system according to claim 21, wherein at least one of the two side walls includes at least one handrail.

23. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 21 and 22, wherein at least one of the two side walls includes an integrated storage unit.

24. The self-induction ophthalmic examination system according to claim 23, wherein the integrated storage unit includes at least one of a disinfectant wipe paper dispenser and a waste bin.

25. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 20 to 24, further comprising a plurality of leg rings on the bottom of the rear frame and on the two side walls.

26. The self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the linear actuator is mounted on a tabletop stand.

27. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the linear actuator is mounted on the ceiling.

28. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the linear actuator is mounted on a wall.

29. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein at least one graphical user interface is provided on the front surface of the housing of the ophthalmic examination interface module.

30. A self-induction ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein at least one graphical user interface is provided on a mobile device.

31. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the ophthalmic examination interface module further includes a display screen on the front of the housing.

32. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the ophthalmic examination interface module further includes at least one speaker on the front of the housing.

33. A self-inductive ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 32, wherein the processor communicates the at least one result of the at least one aspect of the user's health condition to a remote physician for evaluation.

34. A self-induction ophthalmic examination system according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the processor provides the user with feedback in the form of a referral letter to a remote physician based on the result of the at least one aspect of the user's health condition.

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