Face mask with position guides for fundus imaging

Abstract

The techniques described herein relate to face masks with positioning guides for fundus imaging. An example face receptacle assembly for retinal imaging includes an example rigid frame and an example pliable face mask mounted onto the rigid frame and comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The example pliable face mask further includes a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask and a second positioning guide on the second side and extending from the surface.

Description

Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 FACE MASK WITH POSITION GUIDES FOR FUNDUS IMAGING RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This patent claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 568,343, titled “FACE MASK WITH POSITION GUIDES FOR FUNDUS IMAGING,” filed on March 21, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. FIELD

[0002] The techniques described herein relate generally to fundus imaging and, more particularly, to face masks with position guides for fundus imaging. BACKGROUND

[0003] Fundus photography is capturing an image of an inner lining of an eye, such as an eye of a human subject, with a fundus camera. The inner lining of the eye may also be referred to as the fundus of the eye. To facilitate fundus image capture, a fundus camera may have a mechanical interface, such as a mask, to receive the person’s face. The fundus image may be captured once the person is in front of the fundus camera and situated in the mechanical interface. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, face masks with position guides for fundus image are provided.

[0005] Some embodiments relate to a face receptacle assembly for retinal imaging, comprising a rigid frame and a pliable face mask mounted onto the rigid frame. The pliable face mask comprises a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask, and a second positioning guide on the second side and extending from the surface.

[0006] Some embodiments relate to a method of manufacturing a face receptacle assembly for retinal imaging. The method comprises constructing a rigid frame. The method further comprises constructing a pliable face mask comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The pliable face mask further comprises a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask and a second positioning guide onAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 the second side and extending from the surface. The method further comprises manufacturing the face receptacle assembly by mounting the pliable face mask onto the rigid frame.

[0007] Some aspects relate to a system for retinal imaging. The system comprises a housing comprising a fundus camera and a face receptacle assembly coupled to the housing. The face receptacle assembly comprises a rigid frame and a pliable face mask mounted onto the rigid frame. The pliable face mask comprises a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask, and a second positioning guide on the second side and extending from the surface.

[0008] The foregoing summary is not intended to be limiting. Moreover, various aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented alone or in combination with other aspects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0009] Various aspects and embodiments will be described with reference to the following figures. In the figures, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like reference character. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, with emphasis instead being placed on illustrating various aspects of the techniques and devices described herein.

[0010] FIG.1A is a front view of an example fundus camera system including an example face receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0011] FIG.1B is an isometric view of the fundus camera system of FIG.1A, according to some embodiments.

[0012] FIG.2 is a front view of the face receptacle assembly of FIGS.1A-1B, which depicts positioning guides, according to some embodiments.

[0013] FIG.3 is a translucent front view of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2, which depicts an example face mask and an example rigid frame assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIG.4A is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.3, which depicts example floating cheekbone mounting structures, according to some embodiments.

[0015] FIG.4B is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.4A, which depicts removal of a portion of one of the example floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG. 4A, according to some embodiments.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0016] FIG.4C is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.4A, which depicts removal of a portion of both the example floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG.4A, according to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG.5 is a rear view of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2, which depicts the face mask of FIGS.2-3 and the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.3-4C, according to some embodiments.

[0018] FIG.6 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.3-5, which depicts first and second floating cheekbone mounting structures, according to some embodiments.

[0019] FIG.7 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.3-6, which depicts removal of a portion of one of the floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG.6, according to some embodiments.

[0020] FIG.8 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.3-7, which depicts removal of a portion of both the floating cheekbone mounting structures removed, according to some embodiments.

[0021] FIG.9 is an isometric view of a vertical cross section of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2 through the center mid-plane of the face receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0022] FIG.10 is a bottom view of a horizontal cross section of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2 through the center-mid plane of the face receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0023] FIG.11 is a translucent front view of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2, which depicts another example face mask and another example rigid frame assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0024] FIG.12A is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.11, which depicts example floating cheekbone mounting structures, according to some embodiments.

[0025] FIG.12B is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.12A, which depicts removal of a portion of one of the example floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG. 12A, according to some embodiments.

[0026] FIG.12C is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.12A, which depicts removal of a portion of another one of the example floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG.12A, according to some embodiments.

[0027] FIG.12D is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIG.12A, which depicts removal of a portion of both the example floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG. 12A, according to some embodiments.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0028] FIG.13 is a rear view of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2, which depicts the face mask of FIGS.2 and 11 and the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.11-12D, according to some embodiments.

[0029] FIG.14 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.11-13, which depicts first and second floating cheekbone mounting structures, according to some embodiments.

[0030] FIG.15 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.11-14, which depicts removal of a portion of one of the floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG.14, according to some embodiments.

[0031] FIG.16 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.11-15, which depicts removal of a portion of another one of the floating cheekbone mounting structures of FIG.14, according to some embodiments.

[0032] FIG.17 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.11-16, which depicts removal of a portion of both the floating cheekbone mounting structures removed, according to some embodiments.

[0033] FIG.18 is a bottom view of a horizontal cross section of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.11 through the center-mid plane of the face receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0034] FIG.19 is a flowchart representative of an example process that may be performed to manufacture the face receptacle assembly of FIGS.2 and / or 11, according to some embodiments.

[0035] FIG.20 is a flowchart representative of an example process that may be performed to use positioning guides of the face receptacle assembly of FIGS.1A-1B, 2, and / or 11 to pre- align a patient’s face for fundus image capture, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present application generally provides techniques for face masks with position guides for fundus imaging. Fundus photography, and / or, more generally, fundus imaging, is capturing an image and / or photograph of an inner lining of an eye, such as an eye of a human subject, with a fundus camera. The inner lining of the eye may also be referred to as the fundus of the eye or simply the fundus. The fundus camera may record images of the condition of the fundus to document the presence (or absence) of eye disorders and / or diseases and monitor their change over time.

[0037] A fundus camera (also known as a retinal camera) may be implemented by a specialized, low power microscope with an attached camera designed and / or configured toAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 image the interior surface of the eye, including the retina, retinal vasculature, optic disc, macula, and posterior pole (i.e., the fundus). To facilitate fundus imaging, a human subject’s eyes may be dilated before image capture, such as by administering eye drops in the pupil of each eye to be imaged. Fundus imaging using pupil dilation may be referred to as mydriatic imaging. Widening (i.e., dilating) a patient’s pupil reduces the likelihood of clipping the illumination and detection beams while allowing for a larger spatial separation of these two paths, which also assists with mitigating and / or reducing image artifacts such as halo and glare. The increase of imaging angle of observation enables an operator controlling the fundus camera to image an increased area of the back of the eye and have a larger view thereof. Examples of a fundus camera operator include a medical doctor (e.g., an ophthalmologist), an optometrist, an optician, and a technician.

[0038] Typically during fundus imaging, a human subject (i.e., a patient) may be instructed to sit in front of the fundus camera with the subject’s chin resting on a chin rest (e.g., a fundus camera attachment) and the subject’s forehead against a bar or other support structure of a face receptacle interface, such as a mask (e.g., an eye mask, a face mask) or goggles (e.g., eye goggles). The fundus camera operator may focus and align the fundus camera on a pupil of a first eye of the subject, such as by focusing / aligning an imaging path of the fundus camera with the black center of the subject’s eye. Once focused / aligned, the operator presses the shutter release on the fundus camera, which causes a flash (e.g., a camera flash, an illumination flash) to be fired such that an image and / or photograph of the interior surface of the subject’s eye may be captured for subsequent analysis and / or processing. The operator may repeat this procedure to capture an image / photograph of the interior surface of the subject’s other eye.

[0039] The inventors have recognized that there are several challenges with conventional fundus camera systems. First, face receptacle interfaces of conventional fundus camera systems do not guide a human subject’s face into position for optimal and / or otherwise improved fundus imaging. For example, a human subject typically inserts their face into the face receptacle interface. The operator of the fundus camera may manually assist the human subject to place their face into an appropriate fundus imaging position. The operator may capture several fundus images to provide feedback to the human subject to make the appropriate face position adjustments to improve fundus image capture. However, human subjects with larger and / or wider faces may be unable to make the face position adjustments needed for improved fundus image capture.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0040] Second, face receptacle interfaces of conventional fundus camera systems have limited adjustment ranges. For example, some fundus cameras may have face receptacle interfaces with a certain adjustment range available by the translation stages that help cover a corresponding range of different facial geometric variations. However, these adjustment ranges are limited and are especially challenging for human subjects with larger and / or wider faces. For example, larger and / or wider faces may not fit correctly within these face receptacle interfaces, and the limited adjustment range is unable to overcome the incorrect fit. Usability of the fundus camera is thereby limited because the face receptacle interface may not cover both eyes to create a sufficiently dark enough environment for fundus imaging. Accordingly, human subjects with larger and / or wider faces may need mydriatic agents to dilate their pupils appropriately because the face receptacle interface is unable to create the dark environment needed for adequate pupil dilation without the mydriatic agents.

[0041] Third, face receptacle interfaces of conventional fundus camera systems are uncomfortable to human subjects. For example, conventional face receptacle interfaces are configured, constructed, and / or manufactured for a limited range of human face geometries. In such an example, human subjects with face geometries (e.g., smaller or larger face geometries) that do not conform to the limited range experience an uncomfortable facial sensation when undergoing fundus imaging.

[0042] The inventors have developed a face receptacle interface (e.g., a face mask, goggles) for fundus camera systems that overcome the challenges of conventional fundus camera systems. The face receptacle interface developed by the inventors is a face mask (or goggles) that may include positioning guides (e.g., automated positioning guides) for guiding a human subject’s face into an optimal and / or otherwise improved position for fundus image capture. The positioning guides may include raised bodies on opposite sides of the face mask that provide visual but also tactile feedback on where to place their face within the face mask. Examples of the raised bodies include bumps, knobs, and lumps. Beneficially, these positioning guides assist the human subjects position their face and eyes to enable consistent results on the imaging of their eyes. For example, the raised bodies may define the position of the face in the vertical axis (e.g., up-and-down direction with respect to the human subject). Advantageously, these positioning guides overcome the challenge of conventional fundus camera systems that do not guide a human subject’s face into position for optimal and / or otherwise improved fundus imaging.

[0043] The face receptacle interface developed by the inventors may include a rigid structure (e.g., a rigid support structure, a rigid sub-structure) with cheek bone support mechanismsAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 that are operatively coupled to the rigid structure for improved compliance with a wide range of different facial structures of the cheekbones and / or forehead of human subjects. For example, the cheek bone support mechanisms may be plates mounted to swivels on the rigid structure for a three-pointed reference system. Beneficially, the cheek bone support mechanisms may be configured, constructed, and / or manufactured to intrinsically stabilize the human subject when placed in the face receptacle interface and locate the human subject in the correct depth location (e.g., in-and-out direction with respect to the human subject). Beneficially, the flexibility provided by the cheek bone support mechanisms provide compliance to all facial structures. Advantageously, the improved compliance enabled by the cheek bone support mechanisms and / or, more generally, the rigid structure, overcome the limited adjust range of conventional fundus camera systems.

[0044] The face receptacle interface developed by the inventors improves comfort to a human subject undergoing fundus imaging. For example, the face receptacle interface may be a face mask with an outer surface (e.g., a skin) made of a pliable biocompatible material to achieve the desired flexibility for a range of facial geometries. An example pliable biocompatible material is silicon. Further, the pliable biocompatible material may collapse easily in areas where the facial structures are lager than the outline of the outer surface of the face mask. Advantageously, the pliable biocompatible material of the face receptacle interface overcomes the lack of comfortability of conventional fundus camera systems.

[0045] The face receptacle interface disclosed herein is configured, constructed, and / or manufactured to ensure both eyes are in a dark environment and, as a result, supports natural dilation of the pupils. Beneficially, by supporting natural pupil dilation, the face receptacle interface disclosed herein enables the imaging of human subjects without the use of mydriatic agents, which leads to improved comfort and / or safety of the human subjects.

[0046] The techniques described herein may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the techniques are not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of details of implementation are provided herein solely for illustrative purposes. Furthermore, the techniques disclosed herein may be used individually or in any suitable combination, as aspects of the technology described herein are not limited to the use of any particular technique or combination of techniques.

[0047] Turning to the figures, the illustrated examples of FIG.1A and FIG.1B are front and isometric views, respectively, of an example fundus camera system 100. The fundus camera system 100 includes an example face receptacle assembly 102 attached to a camera housing 104.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0048] The camera housing 104 includes and / or implements a fundus camera 105. For example, the fundus camera 105 can be operated automatically and / or via a human operator (e.g., a technician, a medical professional, etc.).

[0049] The camera housing 104 is mounted to a frame 106. The frame 106 includes a handle 107 to support mobile and / or portable operation. The handle 107 is rounded for improved user comfort when grasping the handle 107. Alternatively, the handle 107 may have a different shape.

[0050] The frame 106 is supported by a base 108. The frame 106 is operatively coupled to the base 108. For example, the frame 106 can be extended or collapsed in a vertical direction using extendible members 109. The extendible members 109 are rods (e.g., extendible rods) that can be extended to increase a height of the fundus camera 105 and / or collapsed to decrease the height of the fundus camera 105. The rods are shown as square (e.g., rectangular) rods. Alternatively, they may have a different shape. Alternatively, the members 109 may be bars, poles, or shafts.

[0051] The base 108 may be configured for mobile and / or portable operation, such as by including rotatable tracks and / or wheels. The face receptacle assembly 102 shown in these illustrated examples is a face mask assembly configured, constructed, and / or manufactured to receive a face of a human subject for fundus imaging. Alternatively, the face receptacle assembly 102 may be implemented as a goggle system (e.g., an eye goggle system).

[0052] FIG.2 is a front view of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A-1B. The face receptacle assembly 102 includes a face receptacle interface shown in FIG.2 as a face mask 202. The face mask 202 of this example is shaped to receive a face, or portion(s) thereof, of a human subject for fundus imaging.

[0053] The face mask 202 is constructed and / or manufactured from a pliable biocompatible material. An example of a pliable biocompatible material is silicone. For example, at least an outer surface, or skin, of the face mask 202 may be constructed of silicone (e.g., silicone resin). Alternatively, the material of the face mask 202 may be any other material pliable enough to conform to a human face during an eye examination.

[0054] In the illustrated example, the face mask 202 is constructed to have a specified hardness and / or thickness, which may be quantified by shore hardness. Shore hardness is a measure of the resistance a material has to indentation.

[0055] The face mask 202 may have a 50 shore hardness measure. For example, the face mask 202 may have a 50 shore hardness measure within a manufacturing tolerance of 1 shore hardness such that the face mask 202 may have a shore hardness measure in a range of 49 toAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 51 shore hardness. Alternatively, the face mask 202 may have a different shore hardness. For example, the face mask 202 may have a shore hardness in a range of 40 to 60 shore hardness. Alternatively, the face mask 202 may have a shore hardness in a different shore hardness range, such as a range of 10 to 100 shore hardness.

[0056] The face mask 202 may have a thickness (e.g., a material thickness) of 2 millimeters (mm) throughout. For example, the face mask 202 may have a uniform thickness of 2 mm throughout. Alternatively, the face mask 202 may have a different thickness throughout or may have different thicknesses in different portions of the face mask 202. For example, the face mask 202 may have a thickness in a range of 1.0 to 3.0 mm. In another example, the face mask 202 may have a thickness in a range of 1.5 to 2.5 mm.

[0057] The face mask 202 has a concave shape that bends inward and towards a human subject’s face. For example, the face mask 202 has a curved shape with a portion (e.g., an inner portion) that curves inward. Sides 204, 206, 208, 210 of the face mask 202 form the shown concave shape.

[0058] The sides 204, 206, 208, 210 include a first side 204 and a second side 206, opposite the first side 204. The first side 204 in this example is a left side for receiving a left-hand portion of a face. The second side 206 in this example is a right side for receiving a right- hand portion of a face. The first side 204 and the second side 206 are portions of the face mask 202 that deflect with larger, flatter, and / or wider faces to conform to a wide range of facial geometries. Beneficially, the first and second sides 204, 206, due to being constructed of a pliable biocompatible material, provide enhanced comfort and eliminates reflected ambient light during fundus imaging.

[0059] The sides 204, 206, 208, 210 further include a third side 208 and a fourth side 210, opposite the third side 208. The third side 208 of this example is a top side for receiving a forehead portion of a face. The fourth side 210 of this example is a bottom side for receiving a nose of a face. The first and second sides 204, 206 extend closer to the human subject than the third and fourth sides 208, 210 to form the concave shape. For example, the left and right sides of the face mask 202 extend further out from the camera housing 104 of FIGS.1A-1B (e.g., towards the human subject) than the top and bottom of the face mask 202, creating divots 212, 214 at the top (identified by reference numeral 212) and bottom (identified by reference numeral 214) of the face mask 202. In such an example, these divots 212, 214 are the intended positions where the human subject should place their forehead and nose. By way of example, the first side 204 and the second side 206 may extend to a first depth with respect to the z-axis of a reference coordinate system 222 (shown). Furthering the example, the thirdAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 side 208 and the fourth side 210 may extend to a second depth with respect to the z-axis of the reference coordinate system 222. In such an example, the second depth is less than the first depth to form and / or establish the concave shape of the face mask 202.

[0060] Edges of the sides 204, 206, 208, 210 of the face mask 202 define an opening 216. The opening 216 is a space for receiving a portion of a face that includes the eyes. The opening 216 exposes the eyes of a human subject to a fundus camera.

[0061] The face mask 202 includes positioning guides 218, 220 (or position guides) to improve positioning of a human subject’s face within the face mask 202. The positioning guides 218, 220 provide a visual indication to a human subject to where their face is to be inserted into the face mask 202. Further, the positioning guides 218, 220 provide tactile feedback to the human subject once their face is inserted into the face mask 202 to enable the human subject to adjust their facial position to the intended or desired facial position for fundus imaging.

[0062] The positioning guides 218, 220 shown in FIG.2 are raised bodies on opposite sides of the face mask 202. Examples of the raised bodies include bumps, knobs, mounds, and lumps. The positioning guides 218, 220 are capsule shaped (e.g., pill shaped). For example, the positioning guides 218, 220 can be capsule-shaped bumps, which may be molded and / or machined as described further below. Alternatively, one or both positioning guides 218, 220 may have a different shape, such as a triangular shape or a rectangular shape. There are two of the positioning guides 218, 220 shown. Alternatively, one or more than two positioning guides 218, 220 may be used.

[0063] In the illustrated example, a first positioning guide 218 is coupled to the first side 204 and a second positioning guide 220 is coupled to the second side 206. The positioning guides 218, 220 are coupled to respective portions of an interior of the face mask 202 for improved positioning of a human subject’s face within the face mask 202. For example, the positioning guides 218, 220 shown in FIG.2 are located at respective portions of the face mask 202 to make contact with the upper lateral surface of the Zygomatic bone to center the eye sockets on the y-axis of the reference coordinate system 222. Beneficially, the picture result from the fundus imaging can be of higher quality when the eye sockets are centered on the y-axis of the face mask 202. Alternatively, one or both positioning guides 218, 220 may be located elsewhere on the face mask 202.

[0064] The positioning guides 218, 220 are configured as alignment guides (e.g., facial alignment guides) to assist the patient to haptically auto-align their face to the correct height within the face mask 202. The three point support of the face mask 202, which includes theAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 two positioning guides 218, 220 and the divot 212 establish a plane of the face to align within the face mask 202. For example, the roundness of the divot 212 (and the divot 214) and the corresponding roundness of the patient’s nose enable the centration of left and right. Furthering the example, the positioning guides 218, 220 enable the centration of the height of the patient’s face within the predefined space in the face mask 202 along the laser axes.

[0065] In some embodiments, the fundus camera 105 has a fixed range of travel (i.e., a travel range) and the range of travel can be greatly reduced if the location of the patient’s eyes can be pre-aligned reliably, such as by being pre-aligned using the positioning guides 218, 220. By reducing the travel range of the fundus camera 105 by way of structural features of the face mask 202 described herein, the fundus camera 105 and / or, more generally, the fundus camera system 100 may be reduced in size to achieve a compact overall design. Further, the face mask 202 is provided herein to be flexible with respect to different facial geometries, which can further reduce the needed travel range of the fundus camera 105 and further contribute to the compactness of the fundus camera system 100.

[0066] The positioning guides 218, 220 of FIG.2 are coupled to the first and second sides 204, 206, respectively, by being molded to the face mask 202. For example, the positioning guides 218, 220 may be integrated into the face mask 202 using a molding process. An example of a molding process is an injection molding process.

[0067] Alternatively, one or both positioning guides 218, 220 may be removeable. For example, one or both positioning guides 218, 220 may be attached to the face mask 202 using an adhesive, one or more fasteners, or a sliding system. An example of a sliding system includes a sliding rail on which a positioning guide may be slid onto for securing the positioning guide to the face mask 202. For example, the sliding rail may be a dovetail rail and an underside of the positioning guide may have a corresponding rail to fit into the dovetail rail.

[0068] Beneficially, in embodiments in which the positioning guides 218, 220 are removeable, the positioning guides 218, 220 may be configured to be interchangeable to allow a wider variety of facial anatomical features to better fit into the face mask 202. For example, a first set of the positioning guides 218, 220 may be configured for a first facial geometry corresponding to a first position of cheek bones with respect to a nose of a human subject. Furthering the example, a second set of the positioning guides 218, 220 may be configured for a second facial geometry corresponding to a second position of cheek bones with respect to a nose of a human subject. In such an example, the face mask 202 may be configured with the first set of positioning guides 218, 220 installed. An operator of theAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 fundus camera system 100 may change, replace, and / or swap the first set for the second set for a human subject with the second facial geometry.

[0069] FIG.3 is a translucent front view of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A, 1B, and / or 2. The face receptable assembly 102 shown includes the face mask 202 of FIG.2 and an example rigid frame assembly 302. The rigid frame assembly 302 includes a rigid frame 304 for supporting the structure of the face mask 202 when a human subject is pressing their face into the face mask 202. As shown, the face mask 202 is mounted to the rigid frame 304. For example, the face mask 202 is shaped over the rigid frame 304 such that the face mask 202 conforms to the shape of the rigid frame 304. The rigid frame 304 has a similar general shape as the face mask 202. Beneficially, the use of the rigid frame 304 in conjunction with the pliable face mask 202 allows a wide range of facial geometries and eye anatomical structures to be comfortably and consistently positioned during an eye examination.

[0070] FIG.4A is a front view of the rigid frame 304 and / or, more generally, the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIG.3. The rigid frame 304 of the shown example is a molded rigid sub- structure. Alternatively, the rigid frame 304 may be machined using multiple components. The rigid frame 304 of the shown example is constructed from and / or manufactured using plastic. Alternatively, the rigid frame 304 may be constructed from and / or manufactured using a different material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum) or carbon fiber. The rigid frame 304 may alternatively be a flexible frame, such that it may deform at least in part when a human subject presses their face into the face mask 202.

[0071] The rigid frame 304 of the illustrated example includes a forehead rest area 402 to receive a forehead of a human subject. The rigid frame 304 is further shown to include a pair of cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408. Alternatively, a different number of cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 may be used.

[0072] The cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 are shown in this example to be plates. The plates shown are curved such that the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 may be curved plates. The cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 may be constructed of plastic (e.g., hardened plastic). Alternatively, the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 may be constructed of a different material, such as a foam, metal, or carbon fiber.

[0073] Although the rigid frame 304 has the same general shape as the face mask 202 (e.g., the shape of the rigid frame 304 aligns with and / or corresponds to the shape of the face mask 202), at the bottom of the rigid frame 304, the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 are separated by a distance and / or otherwise are not connected to each other. For example, theAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 rigid frame 304 is shown to have a partial oval shape as ends of the rigid frame 304 do not connect. Furthering the example, a first side 410 of the rigid frame 304 does not connect to a second side 412 of the rigid frame 304. As shown in FIG.3, the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 are not the same as the nose divot 214 present at the bottom of the face mask 202.

[0074] FIG.4B is a front view of the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-4A. In the illustrated example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 406 of FIG.4A is removed to reveal and / or expose a mounting joint 414. For example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 406 can be coupled to the rigid frame 304 by being mounted to the mounting joint 414 on the rigid frame 304.

[0075] The mounting joint 414 of this example is a ball-and-socket joint configured to allow backward, forward, sideways, and / or rotating movements. For example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 406 can be a floating cheekbone mounting structure when attached to the rigid frame 304 using the mounting joint 414. The ball-and-socket joint may be a magnetic ball-and-socket joint. Alternatively, the mounting joint 414 may be a different type of joint, such as a universal joint. The mounting joint 414 of this example is molded to the rigid frame 304. Alternatively, the mounting joint 414 may be machined to the rigid frame 304.

[0076] FIG.4C is a front view of the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-4B. In the illustrated example, the second cheekbone mounting structure 408 of FIG.4A is removed to reveal and / or expose a mounting joint 416. For example, the second cheekbone mounting structure 408 can be a floating cheekbone mounting structure when attached to the rigid frame using the mounting joint 416. The first cheekbone mounting structure 406 and the second cheekbone mounting structures 408 can be floating cheekbone mounting structures configured to conform to varied facial structures and to prevent the patient to move into the fundus camera. As shown, the second cheekbone mounting structure 408 can be coupled to the rigid frame 304 by being mounted to the mounting joint 416 on the rigid frame 304.

[0077] The mounting joint 416 of this example is a ball-and-socket joint configured to allow backward, forward, sideways, and / or rotating movements. For example, the second cheekbone mounting structure 408 can be a floating cheekbone mounting structure when attached to the rigid frame 304 using the mounting joint 416. The ball-and-socket joint may be a magnetic ball-and-socket joint. Alternatively, the mounting joint 416 may be a different type of joint, such as a universal joint. The mounting joint 416 of this example is molded to the rigid frame 304. Alternatively, the mounting joint 416 may be machined to the rigid frame 304.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0078] The rigid frame 304 is assembled, configured, constructed, and / or manufactured such that the rigid frame 304 can be coupled to the face mask 202. As shown in FIGS.4A-4C, the rigid frame 304 includes a pass-through opening 418 in the forehead rest area 402 for mechanically capturing the face mask 202. For example, the pass-through opening 418 can be configured to receive a fastener. Examples of fasteners include a bolt and a screw.

[0079] The pass-through opening 418 in the forehead rest area 402 functions to secure the rigid frame 304 to the face mask 202 by utilizing an oversize “mushroom” button detail on the face mask 202. The mushroom button detail is shown in FIG.5 and identified by reference numeral 502. For example, the mushroom button detail 502 may face away from the human subject and toward the camera housing 104. Although a single pass-through opening 418 in the forehead rest area 402 is shown, multiple pass-through openings may be used to securely attach the face mask 202 to the rigid frame 304 through the forehead rest area 402. Alternatively, the face mask 202 may be attached to the rigid frame 304 by gluing and / or over molding. For example, pliable material of the face mask 202 may be over molded to the rigid frame 304.

[0080] The rigid frame 304 is assembled, configured, constructed, and / or manufactured such that the rigid frame 304 can be coupled to the camera housing 104 of FIGS.1A-1B using pass-through openings 420, 422, 424, 426 as shown in the rigid frame 304. The pass-through openings 420, 422, 424, 426 are mounting through holes configured to receive a corresponding fastener. Although four of the pass-through openings 420, 422, 424, 426 are shown, a different number of pass-through openings 420, 422, 424, 426 may be used to securely attach the rigid frame 304 to the camera housing 104.

[0081] Alternatively, the rigid frame 304 may be coupled to the camera housing 104 using a different mounting technique, such as by using one or more magnetic mounts as discussed below in connection with FIGS.11-17. For example, magnets may be placed on the rigid frame 304 and / or the camera housing 104 such that the rigid frame 304 magnetically attaches to the camera housing 104 when the rigid frame 304 is brought within magnetic proximity to the camera housing 104. In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be embedded and / or integrated into the rigid frame 304 and the camera housing 104 may be constructed at least in part using ferromagnetic materials. In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be embedded and / or integrated into the camera housing 104 and the rigid frame 304 may be constructed at least in part using ferromagnetic materials. Examples of ferromagnetic materials include aluminum, iron, and nickel.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0082] Beneficially, in embodiments in which magnetic mount(s) are used, improved interchangeability of the face mask 202 and the rigid frame 304 may be achieved. For example, use of magnetic mount(s) may support the use of different sizes for different human subject populations. For example, magnetic mount(s) may enable the relatively easy and convenient swapping of a first one of the face masks 202 corresponding to a first facial geometry for a second one of the face masks 202 corresponding to a second facial geometry. Beneficially, magnetic mount(s) eliminate the need for tools for replacing or exchanging the face mask 202. In such an example, the first and second ones of the face masks 202 may be configured, constructed, and / or manufactured to be attached to the same rigid frame 304 for improved interchangeability and / or interoperability.

[0083] FIG.5 is a rear view of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A-2, which depicts the face mask 202 of FIGS.2-3 and the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-4C.

[0084] FIG.6 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-5, which depicts the rigid frame 304. Also shown is a rear view of the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 and the mounting joints 414, 416. For example, the rear view shows capturing sockets 602 of the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 and the post and ball elements of the mounting joints 414, 416 for insertion into the capturing sockets 602.

[0085] FIG.7 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-6, which depicts the cheekbone mounting structure 408 removed for an enhanced view of the post and ball elements of the mounting joint 416.

[0086] FIG.8 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-7, which depicts both the cheekbone mounting structures 406, 408 removed for enhanced views of the post and ball elements of the mounting joints 414, 416.

[0087] FIG.9 is an isometric view of a vertical cross section of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIG.2 through the center mid-plane of the face receptacle assembly 102.

[0088] FIG.10 is a bottom view of a horizontal cross section of the face receptacle assembly of FIG.2 through the center-mid plane of the face receptacle assembly 102.

[0089] FIG.11 is a translucent front view of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A, 1B, and / or 2. The face receptable assembly 102 shown includes the face mask 202 of FIG.2 and another example rigid frame assembly 1102.

[0090] The rigid frame assembly 1102 includes a rigid frame 1104 for supporting the structure of the face mask 202 when a human subject is pressing their face into the face mask 202. As shown, the face mask 202 is mounted to the rigid frame 1104. For example, the face mask 202 is shaped over the rigid frame 1104 such that the face mask 202 conforms to theAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 shape of the rigid frame 1104. The rigid frame 1104 has a similar general shape as the face mask 202. Beneficially, the use of the rigid frame 1104 in conjunction with the pliable face mask 202 allows a wide range of facial geometries and eye anatomical structures to be comfortably and consistently positioned during an eye examination.

[0091] FIG.12A is a front view of the rigid frame 1104 and / or, more generally, the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIG.11. The rigid frame 1104 of the shown example is a molded rigid sub-structure. Alternatively, the rigid frame 1104 may be machined using multiple components. The rigid frame 1104 of the shown example is constructed from and / or manufactured using plastic. Alternatively, the rigid frame 1104 may be constructed from and / or manufactured using a different material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum) or carbon fiber. The rigid frame 1104 may alternatively be a flexible frame, such that it may deform at least in part when a human subject presses their face into the face mask 202.

[0092] The rigid frame 1104 of the illustrated example includes a forehead rest area 1202 to receive a forehead of a human subject. The rigid frame 1104 is further shown to include a pair of cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208. Alternatively, a different number of cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 may be used.

[0093] The cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 are shown in this example to be plates. The plates shown are curved such that the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 may be curved plates. The cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 may be constructed of plastic (e.g., hardened plastic). Alternatively, the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 may be constructed of a different material, such as a foam, metal, or carbon fiber.

[0094] The rigid frame 1204 has the same general shape as the face mask 202. For example, the shape of the rigid frame 1204 aligns with and / or corresponds to the shape of the face mask 202. As shown in FIG.12A, the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 are not the same as the nose divot 214 present at the bottom of the face mask 202.

[0095] Unlike the rigid frame 304 shown in FIG.4A, the bottom of the rigid frame 1104 is connected such that a portion 1207 of the rigid frame 1104 is connected between the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208. Furthering the example, a first side 1210 of the rigid frame 1104 connects to a second side 1212 of the rigid frame 1104 through at least the rigid frame portion 1207. Beneficially, the geometry of the portion 1207 can achieve improved and / or easier assembly between the rigid frame 1104 and the face mask 202. Beneficially, the geometry of the portion 1207 can achieve improved molding and constraining of the face receptacle assembly 102.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0096] FIG.12B is a front view of the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-12A. In the illustrated example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 1206 of FIG.12A is removed to reveal and / or expose a mounting joint 1214. For example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 1206 can be coupled to the rigid frame 1104 by being mounted to the mounting joint 1214 on the rigid frame 1104.

[0097] The mounting joint 1214 of this example is a ball-and-socket joint configured to allow backward, forward, sideways, and / or rotating movements. For example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 1206 can be a floating cheekbone mounting structure when attached to the rigid frame 1104 using the mounting joint 1214. The ball-and-socket joint may be a magnetic ball-and-socket joint. Alternatively, the mounting joint 1214 may be a different type of joint, such as a universal joint. The mounting joint 1214 of this example is molded to the rigid frame 1104. Alternatively, the mounting joint 1214 may be machined to the rigid frame 1104.

[0098] FIG.12C is a front view of the rigid frame assembly of FIGS.11-12A. In the illustrated example, the second cheekbone mounting structure 1208 of FIG.12A is removed to reveal and / or expose a mounting joint 1216. For example, the second cheekbone mounting structure 1208 can be coupled to the rigid frame 1104 by being mounted to the mounting joint 1216 on the rigid frame 1104.

[0099] The mounting joint 1216 of this example is a ball-and-socket joint configured to allow backward, forward, sideways, and / or rotating movements. For example, the first cheekbone mounting structure 1208 can be a floating cheekbone mounting structure when attached to the rigid frame 1104 using the mounting joint 1216. The ball-and-socket joint may be a magnetic ball-and-socket joint. Alternatively, the mounting joint 1216 may be a different type of joint, such as a universal joint. The mounting joint 1216 of this example is molded to the rigid frame 1104. Alternatively, the mounting joint 1216 may be machined to the rigid frame 1104.

[0100] FIG.12D is a front view of the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-12A, which depicts removal of both of the floating cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 of FIG.12A. The rigid frame 1104 is assembled, configured, constructed, and / or manufactured such that the rigid frame 1104 can be coupled to the face mask 202. As shown in FIGS.12A- 12C, the rigid frame 1104 includes a pass-through opening 1218 in the forehead rest area 1202 and a pass-through opening 1228 in chin rest area 1229 for mechanically capturing and / or coupling to the face mask 202. For example, the pass-through openings 1218, 1228 can be configured to receive a fastener. Examples of fasteners include a bolt and a screw.

[0101] The pass-through opening 1218 in the forehead rest area 1202 functions to secure the rigid frame 1104 to the face mask 202 by utilizing an oversize “mushroom” buttonAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 detail on the face mask 202. The mushroom button detail is shown in FIG.13 and identified by reference numeral 1302. For example, the mushroom button detail 1302 may face away from the human subject and toward the camera housing 104. Beneficially, the geometry of the mushroom button detail 1302 can achieve improved and / or easier assembly between the rigid frame 1104 and the face mask 202. Beneficially, the geometry of the mushroom button detail 1302 can achieve improved molding and constraining of the face receptacle assembly 102.

[0102] Although a single pass-through opening 1218 in the forehead rest area 1202 is shown, multiple pass-through openings may be used to securely attach the face mask 202 to the rigid frame 1104 through the forehead rest area 1202. Although a single pass-through opening 1228 in the chin rest area 1229 is shown, multiple pass-through openings may be used to securely attach the face mask 202 to the rigid frame 1104 through the chin rest area 1229. Alternatively, the face mask 202 may be attached to the rigid frame 1104 by gluing and / or over molding. For example, pliable material of the face mask 202 may be over molded to the rigid frame 1104.

[0103] The rigid frame 1104 is assembled, configured, constructed, and / or manufactured such that the rigid frame 1104 can be coupled to the camera housing 104 of FIGS.1A-1B using magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 as shown in the rigid frame 1104 and discussed in further detail below in connection with FIGS.13-17.

[0104] In some embodiments, the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 are permanent magnets. Examples of permanent magnets include Alnico, Samarium Cobalt, and Neodymium Iron Boron magnets. Alnico magnets may be composed of (e.g., an alloy of) aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. Samarium Cobalt magnets may be composed of samarium and cobalt. Neodymium Iron Boron magnets may be composed of neodymium, iron, and boron.

[0105] FIG.13 is a rear view of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A-2, which depicts the face mask 202 of FIG.2, the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-12D, and the rigid frame 1104 of FIGS.11-12D.

[0106] In the illustrated example of FIG.13, alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 are shown to be coupled to a rear of the rigid frame 1104. The alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 can be used to interface with the camera body of the fundus camera 105 of FIGS. 1A-1B. For example, the camera body of the fundus camera 105 can have corresponding and / or complimentary recesses (e.g., hole recesses, peg recesses) configured to receive the alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310. A manufacturer or operator of the fundus camera 105 may couple (e.g., attach) the face receptacle assembly 102 to the fundus camera 105 byAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 aligning the alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 with the corresponding recesses of the fundus camera 105 and inserting the alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 through the recesses.

[0107] As shown, first and second alignment pegs 1304, 1306 are disposed at the top of the rigid frame 1104 and third and fourth alignment pegs 1308, 1310 are disposed at the bottom of the rigid frame 1104. Additionally and / or alternatively, alignment pegs may be disposed on the left and / or right hand sides of the rigid frame 1104.

[0108] In some embodiments, the alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 are constructed using the same material type as the rigid frame 1104. Alternatively, one or more of the alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 may be constructed from different material type(s). For example, one or more of the alignment pegs 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 may be constructed using the same material type as the face mask 202.

[0109] Also shown in FIG.13 are rear views of the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226. The magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 are magnetic couplers respectively configured to magnetically couple (e.g., attach) to a corresponding magnetic coupler on the camera housing 104. The magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 may also be referred to herein as magnetic mounts (e.g., magnetic mounting surfaces).

[0110] The magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 are shown as magnetic flat surfaces (e.g., discs) respectively configured to magnetically couple (e.g., attach) to a corresponding magnetic flat surface on the camera housing 104. For example, the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 can be metal inserts (e.g., metal slug inserts) for magnetic capture to the camera body of the fundus camera 105.

[0111] The magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 are circular shaped (e.g., disc shaped). Alternatively, one or more of the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 may have a different shape (e.g., a triangle shape, square shape, a rectangular shape, a pentagon shape, a hexagon shape, etc.). Although four of the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 are shown, a different number of magnets may be used to securely attach the rigid frame 1104 to the camera housing 104.

[0112] In some embodiments, the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 are disposed (e.g., installed) on the rigid frame 1104 and / or the camera housing 104 such that the rigid frame 1104 magnetically attaches to the camera housing 104 when the rigid frame 304 is brought within magnetic proximity to the camera housing 104. In such embodiments, one or more magnets may be embedded and / or integrated into the camera housing 104 and / or the camera housing 104 may be constructed at least in part using ferromagnetic materials. Examples of ferromagnetic materials include aluminum, iron, and nickel.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0113] Beneficially, the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 improve interchangeability of the face mask 202 and the rigid frame 1104. For example, use of the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 may support the use of different sizes for different human subject populations. For example, the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 may enable the relatively easy and convenient swapping of a first one of the face masks 202 corresponding to a first facial geometry for a second one of the face masks 202 corresponding to a second facial geometry without any disassembly (e.g., removal and replacement of fasteners). Beneficially, the magnets 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 eliminate the need for tools for replacing or exchanging the face mask 202. In such an example, the first and second ones of the face masks 202 may be assembled, configured, constructed, and / or manufactured to be attached to the same rigid frame 1104 for improved interchangeability and / or interoperability.

[0114] FIG.14 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-13, which depicts the rigid frame 1104. Also shown is a rear view of the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 and the mounting joints 1214, 1216. For example, the rear view shows capturing sockets 1402 of the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 and the post and ball elements of the mounting joints 1214, 1216 for insertion into the capturing sockets 1402.

[0115] Further shown in FIG.14 are hollow features 1404 of the rigid frame 1104. The rigid frame 1104 can be constructed to have the hollow features 1404 to achieve improved injection molding. The hollow features 1404 are a linear array of box shaped openings. Alternatively, one or more of the hollow features 1404 may be a differently shaped opening.

[0116] FIG.15 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-14, which depicts the cheekbone mounting structure 1208 removed for an enhanced view of the post and ball elements of the mounting joint 1216.

[0117] FIG.16 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-15, which depicts the cheekbone mounting structure 1206 removed for an enhanced view of the post and ball elements of the mounting joint 1214.

[0118] FIG.17 is a rear view of the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-16, which depicts both the cheekbone mounting structures 1206, 1208 removed for enhanced views of the post and ball elements of the mounting joints 1214, 1216.

[0119] FIG.18 is a bottom view of a horizontal cross section of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIG.11 through the center-mid plane of the face receptacle assembly 102.

[0120] FIG.19 is a flowchart 1900 representative of an example process that may be performed to manufacture the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A, 1B, 2, and / or 11.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 For example, the flowchart 1900 may represent a method of manufacturing the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.1A, 1B, 2, and / or 11, or portion(s) thereof.

[0121] The flowchart 1900 of FIG.19 begins at block 1902, at which a rigid frame is constructed. For example, the rigid frame 304 of FIGS.3-8 and / or, more generally, the rigid frame assembly 302 of FIGS.3-8, may be constructed. In another example, the rigid frame 1104 of FIGS.11-18 and / or, more generally, the rigid frame assembly 1102 of FIGS.11-18, may be constructed.

[0122] The flowchart 1900 continues at block 1904, at which a pliable face mask is constructed. For example, the face mask 202 of FIGS.2, 3, 11, and / or 13 may be constructed.

[0123] The flowchart 1900 concludes at block 1906, at which the pliable face mask is mounted onto the rigid frame. For example, the face mask 202 may be mounted onto the rigid frame 304 by shaping the face mask 202 over the rigid frame 304. In such an example, the face mask 202 may be mounted onto the rigid frame 304 by securing a fastener inserted through the pass through opening 418 in the forehead rest area 402.

[0124] In another example, the face mask 202 may be mounted onto the rigid frame 1104 by shaping the face mask 202 over the rigid frame 1104. In such an example, the face mask 202 may be mounted onto the rigid frame 1104 by securing a fastener inserted through the pass through opening 1218 in the forehead rest area 1202.

[0125] FIG.20 is a flowchart 2000 representative of an example process that may be performed to use positioning guides of the face receptacle assembly 102 of FIGS.2 and / or 11 to pre-align a patient’s face for fundus image capture by the fundus camera 105 of FIGS.1A- 1B.

[0126] The flowchart 2000 of FIG.20 begins at block 2002, at which a patient places their faces into the face mask 202 of FIGS.2 and / or 11. The face mask 202 has the positioning guides 218, 220 to pre-align the patient’s face such that eye(s) of the patient are within the correct and / or desired eye box of the fundus camera 105. By placing their face into the face mask 202, the positioning guides 218, 220 on respective sides of the face mask 202 pre-align the patient’s face into a first position for fundus image capture.

[0127] The flowchart 2000 continues at block 2004, at which the patient readjusts their face in the face mask 202 using the positioning guides 218, 220 to align with axes of the fundus camera 105. For example, the positioning guides 218, 220 can be coupled to and / or integrated in the face mask 202 at the shown positions in FIGS.2 and / or 11 such that they assist the patient to haptically auto-align their face to the correct height within the face maskAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00

[0128] The flowchart 2000 concludes at block 2006, at which a fundus image is captured. An operator of the fundus camera 105 may determine that the eye(s) of the patient is / are at the correct height and are aligned with the laser axes of the fundus camera 105. In such an example, the eye(s) of the patient can be at the correct height and aligned with the laser axes due to being haptically aligned to an advantageous fundus image capture position using the positioning guides 218, 220. Furthering the example, the fundus camera 105 may capture a fundus image of the patient’s eyes.

[0129] Various aspects of the embodiments described above may be used alone, in combination, or in a variety of arrangements not specifically discussed in the embodiments described in the foregoing and is therefore not limited in its application to the details and arrangement of components set forth in the foregoing description or illustrated in the drawings. For example, aspects described in one embodiment may be combined in any manner with aspects described in other embodiments.

[0130] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both,” of the elements so conjoined, e.g., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, e.g., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B,” when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0131] The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

[0132] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase, “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at leastAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently, “at least one of A and / or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, ,and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

[0133] Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements.

[0134] Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0135] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0136] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment, implementation, process, feature, etc., described herein as exemplary should therefore be understood to be an illustrative example and should not be understood to be a preferred or advantageous example unless otherwise indicated.

[0137] Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment, it is to be appreciated that various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the principles described herein. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 CLAIMS 1. A face receptacle assembly for retinal imaging, comprising: a rigid frame; and a pliable face mask mounted onto the rigid frame and comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the pliable face mask further comprising: a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask; and a second positioning guide on the second side and extending from the surface.

2. The face receptacle assembly of claim 1, wherein the pliable face mask comprises first, second, third, and fourth sides, the first side opposite the second side and the third side opposite the fourth side, the first and second sides extending to a first depth with respect to a reference axis, and the third and fourth sides extending to a second depth with respect to the reference axis, and the second depth less than the first depth.

3. The face receptacle assembly of claim 2, wherein the first depth is less than the second depth to form a concave shape of the pliable face mask.

4. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the pliable face mask is formed of a pliable biocompatible material.

5. The face receptacle assembly of claim 4, wherein the pliable biocompatible material is silicone.

6. The face receptacle assembly of claim 5, wherein the silicone has a shore hardness in a range of 40 to 60 shore hardness.

7. The face receptacle assembly of claim 5, wherein the silicone has a 50 shore hardness.

8. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the pliable face mask has a uniform thickness in a range of 1.5 to 2.5 millimeters.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 9. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the pliable face mask has a uniform thickness of 2 millimeters.

10. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-9, wherein at least one of the first positioning guide or the second positioning guide is removeable.

11. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the first positioning guide and the second positioning guide have a first depth, the pliable face mask is constructed to receive a third positioning guide with a second depth different from the first depth, and the at least one of the first positioning guide or the second positioning guide is removeable such as to be replaced with the third positioning guide.

12. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-11, wherein at least one of the first positioning guide or the second positioning guide is capsule shaped.

13. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the rigid frame has a partial oval shape and comprises a first end of the partial oval shape and a second end of the partial oval shape, the first end and the second end separated by a space.

14. The face receptacle assembly of claim 13, wherein the rigid frame comprises a first plate coupled to the first end and a second plate coupled to the second end.

15. The face receptacle assembly of claim 14, wherein: the first end comprises a first mounting joint and the first plate is operatively coupled to the first mounting joint; and the second end comprises a second mounting joint and the second plate is operatively coupled to the second mounting joint.

16. The face receptacle assembly of claim 15, wherein at least one of the first mounting joint or the second mounting joint is a ball-and-socket mounting joint.

17. The face receptacle assembly of claim 14, wherein the first plate is magnetically coupled to the first end and the second plate is magnetically coupled to the second end.Attorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 18. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the rigid frame comprises a mushroom shaped portion, and the mushroom shaped portion comprises an opening to receive a fastener for attaching the pliable face mask to the rigid frame.

19. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the pliable face mask is magnetically coupled to the rigid frame.

20. The face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the pliable face mask is over molded to the rigid frame.

21. A method of manufacturing the face receptacle assembly of any one of claims 1-20.

22. A method of manufacturing a face receptacle assembly for retinal imaging, comprising: constructing a rigid frame; constructing a pliable face mask comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the pliable face mask further comprising: a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask; and a second positioning guide on the second side and extending from the surface; and manufacturing the face receptacle assembly by mounting the pliable face mask onto the rigid frame.

23. A system for retinal imaging, comprising: a housing comprising a fundus camera; and a face receptacle assembly coupled to the housing, the face receptacle assembly comprising: a rigid frame; and a pliable face mask mounted onto the rigid frame and comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the pliable face mask further comprising: a first positioning guide on the first side and extending from a surface of the pliable face mask; andAttorney Docket No. T0753.70040WO00 a second positioning guide on the second side and extending from the surface.

Images