Ophthalmic laser system with Z-direction multifocal optical system

Abstract

In certain embodiments, the ophthalmic laser system includes a laser source, multifocal optics, a scanner, delivery optics, and a computer. The laser source generates a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses. The multifocal optics multiplexes the laser beam to create a focused spot within a target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The scanner directs the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions. The delivery optics focuses the laser beam within the target to form a focused spot within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The computer commands the scanner and delivery optics to direct and focus the focused spot on the target according to a scan pattern.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates, in general terms, to ophthalmic laser systems, and more specifically, to ophthalmic laser systems equipped with a multifocal optical system. [Background technology]

[0002] Ophthalmic laser systems deliver laser pulses to focus a spot within a target along a scanning pattern. These laser systems have a variety of applications. For example, the system can be used to perform surgical procedures on eye tissue. When the beam intensity or energy density of the laser pulse exceeds a threshold for plasma or photodisruption, it generates plasma or cavitation bubbles at the focused spot. The bubble pattern can form a surgical incision or a photodisruption area.

[0003] As another example, ophthalmic laser systems can be used to adjust light- (or laser-) adjustable lenses (LALs). In cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Preoperative eye measurements are used to calculate the power and type of IOL that will optimize postoperative vision. However, there are limitations to the accuracy of preoperative measurements, and because eyes heal differently, it can be difficult to achieve the desired visual outcome.

[0004] Light-adjustable lenses can be adjusted after surgery to improve vision. These lenses are made from a photosensitive material that can change its refractive index in response to light. After the eye has healed, the patient's vision is examined, and a laser system is used to scan light inside the patient's eye and adjust the lens. [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic laser system comprises a laser source, a multifocal optical system, a scanner, a delivery optical system, and a computer. The laser source generates a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses. The multifocal optical system multiplexes the laser beam to create a focused spot within a target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The scanner directs the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions, where the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. The delivery optical system focuses the laser beam within the target to form a focused spot within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The computer commands the scanner and the delivery optical system to direct and focus the focused spot on the target according to a scan pattern.

[0006] The embodiments may not include any of the following features, or they may include one, some, or all of them.

[0007] A multifocal optical system includes diffractive optical elements that multiplex laser beams to generate focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beams.

[0008] A multifocal optical system includes a holographic optical element having an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that generates a focused spot along the propagation axis of a laser beam.

[0009] The multifocal optical system includes a computer-controlled spatial light modulator that modulates the feature portion of the laser beam to form a focused spot along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

[0010] At least two of the focused spots are spatially separated by a distance greater than the depth of focus of the laser beam.

[0011] The target includes lenses for the eye. The lenses may include intraocular lenses (IOLs) or contact lenses for the eye. The computer can determine scan patterns for lenses to correct farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the eye.

[0012] The target includes the cataract lens of the eye. The computer instructs the scanner and delivery optics to direct and focus the focusing spot, open the lens capsule by incision, and emulsify the cataract lens.

[0013] The target includes the cornea of ​​the eye. The computer instructs the scanner and delivery optics to direct and focus the focusing spot to create an incision in the cornea.

[0014] In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic laser system comprises a laser source, a multifocal optical system, a scanner, a delivery optical system, and a computer. The laser source generates a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses. The multifocal optical system multiplexes the laser beam to create a focused spot within a target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The target includes a lens for the eye. The scanner directs the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions, where the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. The delivery optical system focuses the laser beam within the target to form a focused spot within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The computer determines a scan pattern for correcting hyperopia, myopia, or astigmatism of the eye and commands the scanner and delivery optical system to direct and focus the focused spot on the target according to the scan pattern.

[0015] The embodiments may not include any of the following features, or they may include one, some, or all of them.

[0016] A multifocal optical system includes diffractive optical elements that multiplex laser beams to generate focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beams.

[0017] A multifocal optical system includes a holographic optical element having an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that generates a focused spot along the propagation axis of a laser beam.

[0018] The multifocal optical system includes a computer-controlled spatial light modulator that modulates the feature portion of the laser beam to form a focused spot along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

[0019] In a particular embodiment, a method for scanning a laser beam of an ophthalmic laser system includes: generating a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses using a laser source; multiplexing the laser beam using a multifocal optical system to generate a focused spot within a target along the propagation axis of the laser beam; directing the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions using a scanner; focusing the laser beam within a target using a delivery optical system to form a focused spot within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam; and instructing the scanner and the delivery optical system to direct and focus the focused spot on the target according to a scan pattern using a computer.

[0020] The embodiments may not include any of the following features, or they may include one, some, or all of them.

[0021] The method further includes spatially separating at least two of the focused spots by a distance greater than the depth of focus of the laser beam.

[0022] The target includes lenses for the eye. The method further includes determining, by computer, a scan pattern for a lens for correcting farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the eye.

[0023] The target includes the cataract lens of the eye. The method further includes using a computer to direct and focus a focusing spot on a scanner and delivery optical system, open the lens capsule by incision, and emulsify the cataract lens.

[0024] The target includes the cornea of the eye. The method further includes the computer directing and focusing a focused spot onto the scanner and the delivery optical system to create an incision in the cornea.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary ophthalmic laser system for treating a target. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a portion that can be used by the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3A-3B] FIGS. 3A-3B are diagrams showing an example of a multifocal diffractive optical system that can be used by the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4A-4B] FIGS. 4A-4B are diagrams showing the relationship between the interval between the focused spots F1 and F2, the conical angle of a part of the beam forming the focused spot F2, and the energy loss due to the obscuration effect of the focused spot F1 with respect to the focused spot F2. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an exemplary method for forming a focused spot within a target that can be executed by the system of FIG. 1.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0026] Here, referring to the description and the drawings, embodiments as examples of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods are shown in detail. The description and the drawings are not intended to be exhaustive or, otherwise, to limit the claims to the specific embodiments shown in the drawings and disclosed in the description. The drawings represent possible embodiments, but the drawings are not necessarily to scale and may simplify, exaggerate, delete, or partially cut off certain features to better show the embodiments.

[0027] Generally, this disclosure relates to ophthalmic laser systems equipped with multifocal optical systems. In certain embodiments, the ophthalmic laser system includes a multifocal optical system that multiplexes a laser beam to generate multiple (e.g., 2x, 3x, or more) focused spots along the beam propagation axis. In this way, the effective laser repeat rate can be doubled (e.g., 2x, 3x, or more) without facing the technical challenges of increasing the repeat rate of the laser source or increasing the speed of the scanner. In addition, the spatial spacing between focused spots along the propagation axis can be selected to reduce or minimize the shadow effect that bubbles at shallower focused spots may have on the formation of bubbles at deeper depths. Thus, embodiments provide solutions for increasing the effective repeat rate of ophthalmic laser systems and, as a result, reducing treatment time. These embodiments may be particularly useful for customizing femtosecond laser-adjustable lenses (FLALs), which are intraocular lenses comprising a material having a refractive index that can be modified by femtosecond laser pulses.

[0028] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary ophthalmic surgical laser system 100 for performing a procedure on a target 103. The system 100 includes a laser source 110, a multifocal optical system 107, a scanner 120, a delivery optical system 130, a patient interface 140, an imaging device 150, and a laser controller 160. In one example of operation, the laser source 110 generates a beam 101 of ultrashort laser pulses. The multifocal optical system 107 multiplexes the beam 101 to generate multiple focused spots 102 along the propagation axis of the beam 101. The scanner 120 directs the focused spots of the beam 101 toward a point on the target 103. The delivery optical system 130 focuses the scan beam 101 via the patient interface 140 to generate focused spots 102 within the target 103 along the propagation axis of the beam 101. The imaging device 150 generates an image of the target 103 during the procedure. The laser controller 160 controls the laser source 110, the multifocal optical system 107, the scanner 120, the delivery optical system 130, and / or the imaging device 150 to generate a spot scan pattern within the target 103. In the xyz coordinate system of this example, the z axis is defined by the propagation axis 109 of the beam 101, and the xy plane is orthogonal to the z axis.

[0029] System 100 includes an optical system. “Optical system” means one or more optical elements that act on the beam 101 (e.g., by transmission, reflection, refraction, diffraction, collimation, adjustment, shaping, focusing, modulation, and / or other means). Examples of optical elements include lenses, prisms, mirrors, diffractive optical elements (DOEs), holographic optical elements (HOEs), and spatial light modulators (SLMs). Diffractive optical elements typically have a finely structured surface relief profile that reshapes light into different distributions through diffraction. Examples of diffractive optical elements include beam splitters, pattern generators, kinoforms, beam shapers, and linear or circular gratings. Holographic optical elements are optical elements with interference patterns generated using a holographic imaging process. Examples of holographic optical elements include lenses, filters, beam splitters, or diffraction gratings. A spatial light modulator is a computer-controlled device that modulates one or more features of a light wave in space and time (e.g., amplitude, phase, and / or polarization). The spatial light modulator may have a translucent (LCD) or reflective (LCOS) liquid crystal microdisplay.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the laser source 110 comprises a laser engine capable of generating a beam 101 of ultrashort laser pulses, e.g., pulses in the femtosecond, picosecond, or attosecond range. In certain modifications, the laser source 110 comprises a chirp-pulse-amplified (CPA) laser, which may include an oscillator that generates a femtosecond seed pulse, an expander that stretches the seed pulse 10 to 1000 times in the picosecond range, an amplifier that amplifies the picosecond pulse, and a compressor that compresses the duration of the amplified pulse back into the femtosecond range. In certain modifications, the laser source 110 comprises a cavity-dump regenerative amplifier laser, which may include an oscillator, a expander / compressor, and an optical amplifier. Examples of the laser source 110 include bulk lasers, fiber lasers, or hybrid lasers.

[0031] In certain modifications, the laser pulses generated by the laser source 110 can have any suitable values ​​for the following parameters, the exemplary range of these values ​​is as follows: (1) Pulse duration: 10 to 5000 femtoseconds (fs) (e.g., 100 to 200, 200 to 300, 300 to 400, 400 to 500, 500 to 800, and / or 800 to 1000 fs). The pulse duration value may be selected depending on the application. For example, in cataract surgery, the value may be 400 to 800 fs. As another example, when adjusting a femtosecond laser adjustable lens (FLAL), the value may be 400 to 800 fs for a particular lens, or shorter for other lenses (e.g., 10 to 300 fs). (2) Energy per pulse: 0.01 to 100 microjoules (μJ) (e.g., 0.1 to 30 μJ). (3) Repetition frequency: 1 kilohertz (kHz) to 20 megahertz (MHz). The value of the repetition frequency (or rate) may be selected depending on the application. For example, in cataract surgery, the value may be 50 to 500 kHz or up to 2 MHz. As another example, when adjusting FLAL, the value may be up to 10 MHz. (4) Spot spacing: 0.01 to 10 micrometers (μm) in the x and y directions (e.g., 1 to 5 μm). In the case of spot spacing in the z direction, the z spacing can be near or greater than the focal depth of the laser beam. (5) Average laser power: Maximum 3 watts (W). The average laser power (equal to the repetition rate multiplied by the energy of a single pulse) may be limited by safety standards. For example, the maximum possible exposure according to ANSI is approximately 3W. This value depends on the focusing angle of the laser beam entering the eye.

[0032] The multifocal optical system 107 described herein multiplexes a beam 101 to generate multiple focused spots 102 within a target along the propagation axis of the beam 101. The multifocal optical system 107 can multiplex a beam 101 to generate multiple focused spots 102 by changing the pulse of the beam 101, for example by diffracting or refracting different portions of the beam to different focused spots 102, or by modulating the amplitude, phase, and / or polarization of the beam 101 to generate different focused spots 102. Examples of the multifocal optical system 107 include diffractive optical elements, holographic optical elements, and spatial light modulators. Diffractive optical elements may have a microstructured surface relief profile or a pattern of different refractive indices that changes the laser beam to form multiple focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. Holographic optical elements may have an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that forms multiple focused spots. A spatial light modulator can modulate the amplitude, phase, and / or polarization of a laser beam to form multiple focused spots. For example, the modulator may be an electrically addressable spatial light modulator that modulates the phase. An example of a multifocal optical system 107 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3A and 3B.

[0033] The scanner 120, in response to commands from the laser controller 160, scans the beam 101 to orient the focused spot 102 of the beam 101 toward a point on the target 103. The scanner 120 includes any suitable combination of an xy scanner and a z scanner. The optical axis of the laser system 100 defines the z axis, and the xy plane is perpendicular to the z axis. The xy scanner scans the focused spot 102 of the beam 101 in the xy plane, while the z scanner scans the focused spot 102 of the beam 101 in the z direction parallel to the z axis. The scanner 120 may also include a galvanometer scanner, which is a computer-controlled electromagnetic device that rotates a mirror mounted on the end of a rotating shaft. The mirror deflects the beam 101 to scan the beam in the xy plane. The scanner 120 may also include a linear servo motor that scans the beam 101 in the z direction.

[0034] The delivery optics 130, in response to commands from the laser controller 160, focuses the beam 101 to generate a focused spot 102 within the target 103. The delivery optics 130 may include a focusing objective lens, a beam expander, a birefringent lens, and other lenses that direct, collimate, adjust, and / or focus the scan beam 101 via the patient interface 140 to focus it onto the spot 102 in the target 103.

[0035] The patient interface 140 can be attached to and secured to the target 103 during laser treatment. The patient interface 140 may include, for example, one or two transparent planar lenses mounted on a mount on the delivery optics 130. The mount can provide a stable connection between the patient interface and the delivery optics 130.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the target 103 may include a specific type of artificial intraocular lens (IOL), a laser-tunable lens (LAL) (also known as a “optically tunable lens”). An optically tunable lens is, for example, an artificial lens implanted during cataract surgery. After the eye has healed, the refractive properties of the lens can be adjusted by directing a beam 101 from the outside of the eye onto the lens to form a spot 102. A laser-tunable lens may be a femtosecond laser-tunable lens (FLAL) comprising a material having a refractive index that can be changed by a femtosecond laser pulse. The laser pulse can change the refractive index in any suitable way. For example, the pulse can change the hydration level of the lens material (and the hydration level of the cornea). Increasing the hydration level decreases the refractive index, and decreasing the hydration level increases the refractive index. As another example, the pulse can change the crosslinking of the lens material (or the cornea) which changes the refractive index.

[0037] In other embodiments, target 103 may include a contact lens comprising a material having a refractive index that can be modified by a femtosecond laser pulse. The laser pulse can change the refractive index in any suitable way, for example, in the way described above with respect to FLAL. The refractive power and higher-order aberrations of the contact lens can be customized according to the patient's higher-order aberrations. In these embodiments, the contact lens is placed on a holder, i.e., the contact lens is not on the eye, when it is modified by the laser pulse.

[0038] In yet another embodiment, the target 103 may include an eye. When the intensity or energy density of the laser pulse exceeds the threshold for plasma or photodestruction of the eye, plasma or cavitation bubbles can be generated within the eye at the focused spot 102 of the beam 101. For example, in cataract surgery, the focused spot 102 can form an incision in the cornea and / or lens capsule to access the cataract lens of the eye. The focused spot 102 can also emulsify the cataract lens, and multiple focused spots can reduce the fragmentation time of the lens. In another example, in refractive surgery, the focused spot 102 may be a corneal incision (e.g., a flap, lenticular, or other incision) or other pattern to alter the refractive properties of the cornea.

[0039] The imaging device 150 receives imaging light 104 and generates a real-time image of the target 103 during the procedure. The imaging device 150 can generate image data 105 and transmit the data 105 to the laser controller 160. Examples of imaging devices 150 include surgical microscopes, video microscopes, digital microscopes, ophthalmoscopes, optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging systems, and / or cameras.

[0040] The laser controller 160 is a computer with memory M that stores instructions executable by a processor P for controlling a pulsed laser source 110, a multifocal optical system 107, a scanner 120, a delivery optical system 130, and / or an imaging device 150. Typically, the processor of the laser controller 160 comprises one or more CPUs (such as those manufactured by Intel, AMD, etc.), a microprocessor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) processor communicatively coupled to memory. The memory may comprise a non-temporary computer-readable medium and may include volatile or non-volatile memory, including magnetic media, optical media, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), removable media, or similar components. The memory may store software instructions executable by the processor for generating control signals 106 that control the operation of the pulsed laser source 110, the scanner 120, the delivery optical system 130, and the imaging device 150.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the laser controller 160 generates signals 106 to control parameters of the beam 101 generated by the pulsed laser source 110, such as the repetition rate, pulse length, and pulse energy. The laser controller 160 also generates signals 106 to instruct the multifocal optical system 107, scanner 120, and / or delivery optical system 130 to orient and focus the spot 102 according to a scan pattern. The scan pattern may be any suitable two- or three-dimensional shape or pattern, including helical, raster, zigzag, circular, elliptical, or cylindrical patterns.

[0042] The laser controller 160 can determine a scan pattern according to the purpose of operation. In certain embodiments, the scan pattern can be used to adjust the refractive characteristics of the optically adjustable lens. For example, the scan pattern can form a focused spot 102 within the optically adjustable lens to vary the refractive characteristics of the lens. The laser controller 160 can determine the scan pattern according to the type of correction. In the case of myopia or hyperopia correction, the refractive characteristics can be varied to generate an intraocular lens that directs light onto the retina of the eye. For example, to treat hyperopia, the refractive index can be increased in the central region and / or decreased in the peripheral region. To treat myopia, the refractive index can be decreased in the central region and / or increased in the peripheral region.

[0043] The central region may be described by a diameter that is a percentage of the total diameter of the lens, and the percentage may have a value in the range of, for example, 2 - 5, 5 - 10, 10 - 25, and / or 25 - 50 percent. For example, when the percentage is 10%, the central region is described by a diameter that is 10% of the total diameter of the lens. The peripheral region may be an annular region, and the outer ring can be described by a diameter r1 that is a percentage of the total diameter of the lens, and the inner ring can also be described by a diameter d2 that is a percentage of the total diameter of the lens but where d2 < d1. The percentage may have a value in the range of, for example, 60 - 70, 70 - 80, 80 - 90, and / or 90 - 99 percent.

[0044] In the case of aberration correction, the focused spot 102 can be formed in a band across the lens. The band can be of any suitable size and shape for compensating for the refractive error of the eye, which can be determined, for example, by an aberrometer or corneal topographer.

[0045] In other embodiments, scan patterns can be used to perform surgical procedures on the eye. For example, in cataract surgery, the scan pattern is directed to a focusing spot 102 to form an incision in the cornea and / or lens capsule in order to access the lens of the eye. The scan pattern can also be directed to the focusing spot 102 to open the lens capsule with a circular incision and emulsify the cataract lens. In another example, in refractive surgery, the scan pattern is directed to the focusing spot 102 to form an incision (e.g., a flap, lenticular, or other incision) or other pattern in the cornea in order to change the refractive properties of the cornea.

[0046] Figure 2 shows an example of components that may be used by the system 100 of Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 includes a laser source 110, a beam aligning optical system 172, a multifocal optical system 107, a scanner 120, and a delivery optical system 130 that generates a focused spot 102 (102a, 102b, 102c). In the illustrated example, the delivery optical system includes a directional optical system 176 and a focusing objective lens 178.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the beam adjustment optics 172 adjusts the beam 101, such as by expanding and / or collimating it. The beam adjustment optics 172 may include, for example, an expander and / or collimator. The multifocal optics 107 multiplexes the beam 101 to generate multiple focused spots 102 within the target along the propagation axis 109 of the beam 101. The directional optics 176 directs the beam 101 toward the focusing objective lens 178 and focuses the beam 101 to the focal point 102. In the illustrated example, the directional optics 176 may be a mirror that reflects the beam 101 toward the focusing objective lens 178. Note that even if the directional optics 176 changes the direction of the beam 101, the focused spots will still be located along the propagation axis 109 of the beam 101. In other examples, the directional optics 176 may transmit or refract the beam 101, or it may be omitted.

[0048] Figures 3A and 3B show examples of multifocal diffractive optical systems 107 that can be used with the system 100 of Figure 1. Figure 3A shows a multifocal optical system 107 including a Fresnel lens with a diffraction pattern that produces focused spots 102 (+2, +1, 0, -1, and -2).

[0049] Figure 3B shows a multifocal optical system 107 including a phase modulator (e.g., a phase plate with a diffraction pattern) and a focusing lens that generates focused spots 102 (+2, +1, 0, -1, and -2). The phase modulator may be a diffractive optical element, a holographic optical element, or a spatial light modulator.

[0050] Figures 4A and 4B show the relationship between the distance S between the focused spots 102 (F1, F2) along the propagation axis 109, the cone angle A of a portion of the beam 101 forming the focused spot F2, and the energy loss due to the obscuration effect of focused spot F1 on focused spot F2. Figure 4A shows the multifocal optical system 107 and the focused spots F1 and F2 along the propagation axis 109. Figure 4B shows the plane 111 from the focal point F2.

[0051] For example, in certain targets 103 where the target 103 is part of an eye, the plasma bubble formed by the focusing spot F1 may obscure the beam energy directed toward the focusing spot F2, resulting in energy loss at the focusing spot F2. For example, in some targets 103 where the target 103 is a light-tunable lens, this type of energy loss is not a problem because no plasma bubble is formed by the focal point F1.

[0052] The parameters in the illustrated example can have any suitable values, but specific values ​​are assigned to more easily describe their relationship. In this example, the portion of the beam forming the focused spot F2 forms a cone with a cone angle A of any suitable value, for example, 0.1 to 0.2 radians (e.g., 0.15 radians). The spacing S between focused spots F1 and F2 can have any suitable value, for example, the z-spacing may be greater than the depth of focus of the laser beam, such as 5 to 50, 50 to 100, 100 to 300, 300 to 500, and / or greater than 500 micrometers (μm) (e.g., 200 μm). The diameter d of the plasma bubble formed by the focused spot F1. p1 This can be any appropriate value, for example, 2-5 μm (3 μm, etc.).

[0053] In the illustrated example, the focusing spot F1 is closer to the delivery optical system 130 than the focusing spot F2 is; that is, the focusing spot F1 is shallower than the focusing spot F2, or the focusing spot F2 is deeper than the focusing spot F1. In certain situations, a plasma bubble formed by the focusing spot F1 may obscure the beam energy directed toward the focusing spot F2, resulting in energy loss at the focusing spot F2. In such situations, the distance S between the foci F1 and F2 can be selected so that the energy loss caused by the obscuration effect of focus F1 with respect to focus F2 is negligible. Generally, increasing the distance S between the foci F1 and F2, and / or increasing the cone angle A of the beam forming the focus F2, reduces the energy loss caused by the obscuration effect of focus F1 with respect to focus F2.

[0054] The diameter d of the cone forming the focused spot F2 was measured in a plane 111 perpendicular to the propagation axis 109, where the focused spot F1 intersects the propagation axis 109. b2 It can be calculated from angle A and interval S, where interval S is d b2 =2×Angle A×Spacing S=2×0.15×200μm=60μm That is the case.

[0055] The amount of obscuration can be measured by the obscuration ratio R, R = (d p1 / d b2 ) 2 = (3 μm / 60 μm) 2 = 1 / 400 = 0.0025 = 0.25%, which is the case.

[0056] The energy loss E L can be calculated from the obscuration ratio R, E L = R = 0.25% which is the case.

[0057] In certain embodiments, such as cataract or refractive surgery, an energy loss of 0.25% may be considered acceptable. The maximum allowable energy loss P may depend on the type of surgery.

[0058] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary method for forming a focused spot 102 within a target 103 that can be performed by the system 100 of FIG. 1. The focused spot 102 is formed along the propagation axis 109 of the laser beam 101.

[0059] The method starts at step 310 where the system 100 determines a scan pattern. The scan pattern can be used to adjust an optically adjustable lens or to perform a surgical procedure on eye tissue (e.g., the lens or the cornea). In certain embodiments, the laser controller 106 determines the scan pattern using the cone angle A and the spacing S between the focused spots that satisfy the maximum allowable energy loss P, as described with reference to FIG. 4. <00​In step 312, the laser source 110 generates a laser beam 101. In step 314, the beam adjustment optical system 172 adjusts the beam 101. In step 316, the multifocal optical system 107 multiplexes the beam 101 to generate a focused spot along the propagation axis 109 of the beam 101. In step 318, the scanner 120 scans the beam 101 according to the scan pattern. In step 320, the delivery optical system 130 focuses the beam 101 to form a focused spot 102 within the target 103. The process is now complete.

[0061] Components of the systems and apparatus disclosed herein (such as the laser controller 160) (e.g., a computer) may include interfaces, logic, and / or memory, any of which may include computer hardware and / or software. Interfaces can receive inputs to a component and / or transmit outputs from a component and are typically used to exchange information between software, hardware, peripherals, users, and combinations thereof. A user interface (e.g., a graphical user interface (GUI)) is a type of interface that a user can use to interact with a computer. Examples of user interfaces include displays, touchscreens, keyboards, mice, gesture sensors, microphones, and speakers.

[0062] Logic can perform the actions of components. Logic may include one or more electronic devices that process data, for example, by executing instructions to produce an output from an input. Examples of such electronic devices include computers, processors, microprocessors (e.g., central processing units (CPUs)), and computer chips. Logic may also include computer software that encodes instructions that can be executed by electronic devices to perform actions. Examples of computer software include computer programs, applications, and operating systems.

[0063] Memory can include tangible, computer-readable and / or computer-executable storage media capable of storing information. Examples of memory include computer memory (e.g., random-access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM)), mass storage media (e.g., hard disks), removable storage media (e.g., compact discs (CDs) or digital video or multi-purpose discs (DVDs)), databases, network storage (e.g., servers), and / or other computer-readable media). Certain embodiments may involve memory encoded using computer software.

[0064] While this disclosure describes specific embodiments, modifications to the embodiments (such as changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, and / or other alterations) will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, modifications to the embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, modifications can be made to the systems and apparatus disclosed herein. As will be obvious to those skilled in the art, the components of the systems and apparatus may be integrated or separated, or the operation of the systems and apparatus may be performed by more, fewer, or other components. Another example is the modification of the methods disclosed herein. As will be obvious to those skilled in the art, the methods may include more, fewer, or other steps, and the steps may be performed in any suitable order.

[0065] To assist the Patent Office and readers in interpreting the claims, the applicant notes that, unless the words “means for” or “step for” are expressly used in any particular claim, neither the claim nor any claim element is intended to evoke 35 U.S. SC § 112(f). The use of other terms in the claims (e.g., “mechanism,” “module,” “device,” “unit,” “component,” “element,” “member,” “apparatus,” “machine,” “system,” “processor,” or “controller”) is understood by the applicant to refer to structures known to those skilled in the art in the relevant art and is not intended to evoke 35 U.S. SC § 112(f). According to embodiment (1), an ophthalmic laser system, A laser source configured to generate a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses, A multifocal optical system configured to multiplex the aforementioned laser beams to generate multiple focused spots within a target along the propagation axis of the laser beams, A plurality of scanners configured to direct the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions, wherein the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. A delivery optical system configured to focus the laser beam within the target and form the plurality of focus spots within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam, A computer configured to instruct the scanner and the delivery optical system to direct and focus the plurality of focusing spots onto the target according to a scan pattern, This is an ophthalmic laser system equipped with [specific features / features]. According to embodiment (2), the multifocal optical system includes a diffractive optical element that multiplexes the laser beam to generate the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. According to embodiment (3), the multifocal optical system includes a holographic optical element having an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that generates the plurality of focal spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. According to embodiment (4), the multifocal optical system includes a computer-controlled spatial light modulator that modulates the characteristic portion of the laser beam to form the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. According to embodiment (5), at least two of the focused spots are spatially separated by a distance greater than the depth of focus of the laser beam. According to embodiment (6), the target includes a lens for the eye. According to embodiment (7), the lens includes an intraocular lens (IOL) for the eye. According to embodiment (8), the lens includes the contact lens for the eye. According to embodiment (9), the computer, It is configured to determine the scan pattern for the lens used to correct farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the eye. According to embodiment (10), the target includes the cataract lens of the eye, The computer directs and focuses the plurality of focusing spots relative to the scanner and the delivery optical system, and simultaneously, The lens capsule is opened by making an incision. The command is given to emulsify the aforementioned cataract lens. It is structured in this way. According to embodiment (11), the target includes the cornea of ​​the eye, The computer is configured to instruct the scanner and the delivery optical system to direct and focus the plurality of focusing spots to create an incision in the cornea. According to embodiment (12), a laser source configured to generate a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses, A multifocal optical system configured to multiplex laser beams to generate multiple focused spots within a target along the propagation axis of the laser beams, wherein the target includes an eye lens. A plurality of scanners configured to direct the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions, wherein the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. A delivery optical system configured to focus the laser beam within the target and form the plurality of focus spots within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam, It is a computer, Determine the scan pattern for correcting farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the aforementioned eye. The scanner and the delivery optical system are instructed to direct and focus the plurality of focusing spots according to the scan pattern. A computer configured in such a way, This is an ophthalmic laser system equipped with [specific features / features]. According to embodiment (13), the multifocal optical system includes a diffractive optical element that multiplexes the laser beam to generate the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. According to embodiment (14), the multifocal optical system includes a holographic optical element having an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that generates the plurality of focal spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. According to embodiment (15), the multifocal optical system includes a computer-controlled spatial light modulator that modulates the feature portion of the laser beam to form the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam. According to embodiment (16), a method for scanning the laser beam of an ophthalmic laser system, The laser source generates a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses, The multifocal optical system multiplexes the laser beam to generate multiple focused spots within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam, The laser beam is directed in the x, y, and z directions by multiple scanners, wherein the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. The delivery optical system focuses the laser beam into the target, forming the plurality of focused spots within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam. The method includes instructing the scanner and the delivery optical system by a computer to orient and focus the plurality of focusing spots according to a scan pattern. According to embodiment (17), the method further includes spatially separating at least two of the focused spots by a distance greater than the depth of focus of the plurality of laser beams. According to embodiment (18), the target includes the lens for the eye, The computer further includes determining the scan pattern for the lens for correcting farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the eye. According to embodiment (19), the target includes the cataract lens of the eye, The computer directs and focuses the plurality of focusing spots relative to the scanner and the delivery optical system, and simultaneously, The lens capsule is opened by making an incision. To instruct the system to emulsify the cataract lens, It also includes. According to embodiment (20), the target includes the cornea of ​​the eye, The computer commands the scanner and the delivery optical system to direct and focus the plurality of focusing spots to create an incision in the cornea. It also includes.

Claims

1. An ophthalmic laser system, A laser source configured to generate a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses for an artificial lens implanted during eye surgery, A multifocal optical system configured to multiplex the laser beam to generate a plurality of focused spots within a target including the artificial lens along the propagation axis of the laser beam, wherein the plurality of focused spots include shallower focused spots and deeper focused spots, A plurality of scanners configured to direct the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions, wherein the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. A delivery optical system configured to focus the laser beam within the target and form a plurality of focus spots within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam, It is a computer, The maximum allowable energy loss to the focus spot is determined, and the energy loss is caused by the obscuration effect of the shallower focus spot relative to the deeper focus spot. The scan pattern of a plurality of focus spots is determined by calculating the spatial separation that produces an amount of obscuration that keeps the energy loss below the maximum allowable energy loss, thereby keeping the energy loss below the maximum allowable energy loss. It is configured in such a way, With respect to the scanner and the delivery optical system, According to the scan pattern, a plurality of the focusing spots are directed and focused onto the target. The computer commands the formation of a plurality of the focusing spots simultaneously within the target along the propagation axis, having the spatial separation between the shallower focusing spots and the deeper focusing spots. An ophthalmic laser system equipped with [feature / feature].

2. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 1, wherein the multifocal optical system includes a diffractive optical element that multiplexes the laser beam to generate the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

3. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 1, wherein the multifocal optical system includes a holographic optical element having an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that generates the plurality of focal spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

4. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 1, wherein the multifocal optical system includes a computer-controlled spatial light modulator that modulates the characteristic portion of the laser beam to form the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

5. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 1, wherein the spatial separation is greater than the depth of focus of the laser beam for each of the focused spots.

6. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 1, wherein the artificial lens includes an eye lens, and the lens includes an intraocular lens (IOL) for the eye.

7. The aforementioned computer, The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 1, configured to determine the scan pattern for the artificial lens for correcting farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the eye.

8. A laser source configured to generate a laser beam of ultrashort laser pulses for an artificial lens to be implanted during eye surgery, A multifocal optical system configured to multiplex a laser beam to generate a plurality of focused spots within a target including an artificial lens along the propagation axis of the laser beam, wherein the plurality of focused spots include shallower focused spots and deeper focused spots, and the multifocal optical system includes a computer-controlled spatial light modulator that modulates the characteristic portion of the laser beam to form the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam, A plurality of scanners configured to direct the laser beam in the x, y, and z directions, wherein the z direction is defined by the optical axis of the laser system, and the x and y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. A delivery optical system configured to focus the laser beam within the target and form the plurality of focus spots within the target along the propagation axis of the laser beam, It is a computer, The maximum allowable energy loss to the focus spot is determined, and the energy loss is caused by the obscuration effect of the shallower focus spot relative to the deeper focus spot. The scan patterns of a plurality of the focusing spots are determined by calculating the spatial separation that produces an amount of obscuration that keeps the energy loss below the maximum allowable energy loss, wherein the scan patterns include the scan patterns for lenses for correcting farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism of the eye. To form a plurality of the concentration spots simultaneously along the propagation axis, with the spatial separation between the shallower concentration spot and the deeper concentration spot, the scanner and the delivery optical system are commanded to orient and concentrate the plurality of concentration spots within the target according to the scan pattern. The computer is configured as follows: An ophthalmic laser system equipped with [feature / feature].

9. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 8, wherein the multifocal optical system includes a diffractive optical element that multiplexes the laser beam to generate the plurality of focused spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

10. The ophthalmic laser system according to claim 8, wherein the multifocal optical system includes a holographic optical element having an interference pattern with high diffraction efficiency that generates the plurality of focal spots along the propagation axis of the laser beam.

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