Patient identification for measurement data obtained by an optician or optometrist or ophthalmologist

Abstract

A method for identifying patients comprises the following steps: determining (S10) first identification data during a first measurement of a patient (P) by means of a first measuring device (1) for determining measurement data obtained by an ophthalmologist and / or optometrist; and determining (S30) a patient ID of the patient on the basis of the determined first identification data. The invention also relates to a system and to a computer program (product).

Description

[0001] 120464P1423PC 1 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0002] P2323 PCT

[0003] Description

[0004] Patient identification for ophthalmic or optometric measurement data

[0005] The present invention relates to a method for patient identification and to a system or computer program or computer program product for carrying out a method described herein.

[0006] Currently, when a patient is measured by an optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist, the identity, in particular the name, of the patient being measured must be recorded manually.

[0007] For the sake of a more compact presentation, customers, especially those of opticians, are referred to generally as patients within the meaning of the present invention.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to improve patient handling, particularly in ophthalmic or optometric measurements.

[0009] This problem is solved by a method with the features of claim 1. Claims 13 and 14 protect a system, computer program, or computer program product for carrying out a method described herein. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for patient identification, preferably during or for an ophthalmic measurement or, particularly preferably, an optometric measurement, or by an ophthalmologist, optician, or optometrist, or with one or more optometric and / or ophthalmic measuring devices, comprises the steps of: 120464P1423PC 2 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0011] P2323 PCT

[0012] - Determining identification data during a measurement of a patient, preferably ophthalmic or, more preferably, optometric or ophthalmic, which is carried out using a measuring device, preferably ophthalmic or, more preferably, optometric or ophthalmic, for determining optometric or ophthalmic measurement data, wherein this identification data, measurement or measuring device is / are designated as the first identification data, measurement or measuring device without limitation of generality and in particular to distinguish it from others; and

[0013] - Determining a patient ID or a one- or multi-dimensional, preferably unique or individual, identifier of the patient based on the determined initial identification data.

[0014] The underlying idea is, in particular, to determine identification data during an ophthalmic or optometric measurement, which enables the identification of a patient, preferably semi- or fully automated.

[0015] In this way, patient handling during optometric or ophthalmic measurements can be improved, in particular reducing the effort, especially in terms of time and / or logistics, and / or increasing reliability.

[0016] Determining a patient ID based on a measurement taken with a device for acquiring ophthalmic, optometric, or other ophthalmic measurement data can be used, for example, to ensure that the "correct" patient is being or has been measured, and / or to verify measurement results using the determined patient ID, preferably with patient data stored or provided for this purpose, for example, for plausibility or the like. 120464P1423PC 3 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0017] P2323 PCT

[0018] A particular advantage is that the determined patient ID can be linked to the determined (optometric, ophthalmic) measurement data. This allows for the further improvement of the assignment of measurement data to patients, and thus patient management during optometric, ophthalmic measurements. In particular, it reduces effort, especially in terms of time and / or logistics, and / or increases reliability. Accordingly, one implementation of the procedure includes the following step:

[0019] - Linking, preferably using data or storage technology and / or fully or partially automated linking, the determined (ophthalmic, optometric or ophthalmic) measurement data and the determined patient ID, in particular, preferably using data or storage technology and / or fully or partially automated, assigning the measurement data to the patient ID or the patient ID to the measurement data.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, the determined patient ID can be linked to the initial identification data. This can improve (re)identification of the patient.

[0021] "During a measurement of a patient" within the meaning of the present invention can, in particular, mean "during a measurement of a patient," "within the context of a measurement of a patient," or "in temporal, spatial, instrumental, and / or logistical connection with a measurement of a patient." Accordingly, "determining (first / second) identification data during a (first / second) measurement of a patient using a (first / further / second) measuring device" in one embodiment can mean determining the identification data.

[0022] - during this patient measurement or this measurement, preferably immediately, preceding or following; and / or

[0023] - without the patient changing location; and / or

[0024] - using this measuring device; and / or

[0025] - assigned to this measurement 120464P1423PC 4 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0026] It should be P2323 PCT.

[0027] The determination of (first / second) identification data during a (first / second) measurement can, in one implementation, include the acquisition, in particular measurement, and / or processing of (this) data. In one implementation, the patient identification procedure also includes the performance of the first and, if applicable, the second measurement; in another implementation, the patient identification procedure does not include the performance of the first and, if applicable, the second measurement itself.

[0028] Optometric measurement data within the meaning of the present invention are preferably measurement data that are determined, in particular regularly or usually, by an optician or for an optometric examination, especially for ordering and / or fitting eyeglasses and / or examining visual acuity, or that are used or intended for an optometric examination. Optometric measurement data within the meaning of the present invention are preferably measurement data that are determined, in particular regularly or usually, by an optometrist or for an optometric examination, especially for prescribing, ordering and / or fitting eyeglasses and / or examining visual acuity, or that are used or intended for an optometric examination. Ophthalmic measurement data within the meaning of the present invention are preferably measurement data that are determined, in particular regularly or usually, by an optometrist or for an optometric examination, especially for prescribing, ordering and / or fitting eyeglasses and / or examining visual acuity.by an ophthalmologist or for an ophthalmic examination, in particular for prescribing glasses and / or testing visual acuity, or are used or intended for an ophthalmic examination. In one version, the patient identification procedure does not include the complete optometric or ophthalmic examination, in particular no (ophthalmic) medical diagnosis based on the measured data; in a further training version, as already mentioned, it may or may not include the determination of the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data itself. 120464P1423PC 5 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH.

[0029] P2323 PCT

[0030] In one version, the initial identification data includes optometric or ophthalmic data and / or data derived therefrom; in a further development, one or more hash values ​​derived from the optometric or ophthalmic data and / or one or more feature vectors derived from the optometric or ophthalmic data; in a further development, hash values ​​and / or feature vectors of a classifier that is at least partially based on machine learning.

[0031] Due to their specificity, optometric and ophthalmic data are particularly suitable for determining a patient ID. The use of derived values, especially hash values ​​and feature vectors, can significantly improve data security. Consequently, this can further enhance patient management, particularly by increasing reliability.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, in one version the initial identification data is based on the (optometric or ophthalmic) measurement data obtained during the first measurement using the first measuring device, and / or on data derived therefrom; in a further development, on one or more hash values ​​derived from these measurement data and / or one or more feature vectors derived from these measurement data; in a further development, on hash values ​​and / or feature vectors of a classifier that is at least partially based on machine learning.

[0033] By using the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data obtained during the first measurement with the first measuring device, this data can be used particularly advantageously for optometric or ophthalmic examinations, especially for prescribing, ordering and / or fitting glasses and / or examining visual acuity, as well as for patient identification, thereby improving patient handling during optometric or ophthalmic examinations. 120464P1423PC 6 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0034] P2323 PCT

[0035] Measurements can be further improved, particularly by reducing the effort required, especially in terms of time, equipment, and / or logistics. The use of derived values, especially hash values ​​and feature vectors, can particularly improve data security.

[0036] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the first identification data includes at least a part of the ophthalmic, optometric or ophthalmic measurement data determined during the first measurement using the first measuring device and / or data derived therefrom; in a further development, one or more hash values ​​derived from the measurement data and / or one or more feature vectors derived from the measurement data; in a further development, hash values ​​and / or feature vectors of a classifier that is at least partially based on machine learning; and may in particular consist of the following.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively, in one implementation, the initial identification data is determined based on temporal and / or spatial parameters of the first measurement (defined in further training), while in another implementation, it is determined based on the location and / or time or time window of the first measurement. For example, identification data indicating measurements taken at different locations within the same time window can rule out the possibility that the same patient is involved. Conversely, identification data indicating measurements taken in successive time windows increases the probability that the same patient is involved, thereby reducing effort, particularly in terms of time and / or logistics, and / or increasing reliability.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, in one version, the initial identification data is determined based on additional measurement data, which, in a further training course, are not ophthalmic, non-optometric, and non-ophthalmic. This data is obtained from the patient using the first or a further measuring device during the first measurement, in addition to the ophthalmic, optometric, or ophthalmic measurement data. Such additional measurement data may, in particular, include, or consist of, in a further training course,

[0039] P2323 PCT

[0040] The underlying idea is to collect additional data, beyond the (actual) optometric or ophthalmic measurement or examination, using the first or a further measuring device, and to use this data for patient identification. For example, facial recognition performed for video centration as part of an optometric measurement or examination can (also) be used for patient identification. This can further improve patient handling and, in particular, increase reliability.

[0041] A determined patient ID of a patient includes, in one version, their name and / or date of birth and / or address and / or age and / or gender and / or data on their health insurance and / or medical history and / or a, preferably individual or unique, number or number-letter combination.

[0042] In one version, the procedure includes the following step:

[0043] - Determining second identification data based on at least one second measurement of the patient to determine ophthalmic or optometric measurement data using the first or a second measuring device, whereby the designation as second identification data, measurement or measuring device is also made without restriction of generality and serves in particular for differentiation; wherein

[0044] - the patient ID is determined based on or taking into account the second identification data obtained; and / or

[0045] - the determined patient ID, if applicable, is linked with these measurement data obtained by means of the second measurement and / or these second identification data, preferably in a data or storage-related manner and / or fully or partially automated way.

[0046] In particular, if the first measurement is carried out using the first measuring device and the second measurement using the second measuring device, an advantageous further development, preferably fully or partially automated, 120464P1423PC 8 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0047] P2323 PCT the (same) patient is identified on the two measuring devices (each by determining the first or second identification data) and measurement data determined using the first measuring device and / or using the second measuring device or during the first measurement and / or during the second measurement are linked with his patient ID, preferably in terms of data or storage technology.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, in an advantageous further training, if the first identification data has already been linked to the patient ID determined on the basis of the determined first identification data, this first identification data can be checked and / or updated on the basis of the determined second identification data, preferably (only) updated if it meets a specified update condition, for example, a deviation between first and second identification data falls below a specified limit, in particular a deviation between the corresponding identification characteristics falls below a specified limit, or a (sufficient) number of identification characteristics of the first and second identification data correspond to each other (sufficiently), or the like.Preferably, the identification data linked to the determined patient ID, which has been reviewed and / or updated in a training course, are used as comparison data when a patient ID is re-determined. This allows for the determination of a measure of the agreement between the newly determined identification data and the comparison data provided. This can improve patient identification, particularly with changing identification data or characteristics, and especially its reliability and / or robustness.

[0049] Optometric and ophthalmic examinations often involve two or more measurements, sometimes with the same (first or combined) measuring device, and sometimes with different devices or a combination of (first and second) measuring devices. It is advantageous to also use such a second measurement for patient identification in one setup. By using the second 120464P1423PC 9 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0050] P2323 PCT

[0051] Identification data can further improve patient management, particularly increasing reliability. Additionally or alternatively, this allows measurement data from multiple measurements to be reliably and / or efficiently assigned to the same patient.

[0052] In one further training, the second identification data includes optometric or ophthalmic data and / or data derived therefrom. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the second identification data is based on the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data and / or data derived therefrom obtained during the second measurement using the first or second measuring device. Similarly, in one embodiment, the second identification data includes at least a portion of the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data and / or data derived therefrom obtained during the second measurement using the first or second measuring device.

[0053] These derived data can each contain at least one hash value and / or at least one feature vector, or, in further training, hash values ​​and / or feature vectors of a classifier that is at least partially based on machine learning.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, in one version, the second identification data is determined based on temporal and / or spatial parameters of the second measurement and / or on the basis of additional measurement data, which are determined on the patient using the first or second or another measuring device during the second measurement in addition to the ophthalmic or optometric measurement data.

[0055] For information on the advantages and possible further developments of these explanations, please refer to the corresponding explanations for the initial identification data.

[0056] A patient identification method according to the invention can be used with particular advantage in ophthalmic and especially optometric procedures known per se. 120464P1423PC 10 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0057] P2323 PCT is used for optometric measurements or examinations, particularly by an optician, optometrist, or ophthalmologist, or by means of a (first and possibly a further or second) ophthalmic or optometric measuring device. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the first measuring device and / or the second measuring device (each) is a stationary device, since a large number of different patients are typically measured with such stationary devices, and therefore assigning the measurement to the respective patient is both particularly important and particularly prone to error and / or difficult. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the first measurement and / or the second measurement (each) involves receiving radiation, preferably electromagnetic, from the patient, or, in a further development, electromagnetic radiation emitted by the measuring device towards the patient and reflected by the patient.Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment the first measurement and / or the second measurement (each) includes illuminating one eye of the patient, preferably by means of the first or second measuring device.

[0058] In one embodiment, the determined (first and / or second) identification data comprises (each) two or more, preferably differently determined and / or diverse, patient identification characteristics, preferably a combination of these identification characteristics. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, determining a patient ID based on determined (first and / or second) identification data comprises statistical processing of the determined (first and / or second) identification data; in a further development, statistical processing of a combination of two or more, preferably differently determined and / or diverse, identification characteristics of the respective (first or second) patient identification data and / or a combination of the patient's first and second identification data. Statistical processing, in one embodiment, comprises processing based on at least one statistic or...Statistical data-based evaluation, for example, accepting or confirming, using or rejecting identification data or characteristics based on their conformity with or deviation from statistical data, and / or 120464P1423PC 11 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH.

[0059] P2323 PCT a modification based on at least one statistic or statistical data, in particular a supplement and / or an amendment based on at least one statistic or statistical data.

[0060] In one embodiment, the patient ID is determined based on a combination of two or more, preferably differently determined and / or different, patient identification characteristics obtained during a measurement using a measuring device for ophthalmic or optometric measurement data. This is achieved by determining the patient ID based on a combination of two or more, preferably differently determined, identification characteristics and / or identification data obtained during two or more measurements. This significantly increases reliability, particularly when identification characteristics or data are determined imprecisely and / or when one or more identification characteristics or data are only partially captured or determined.This is particularly possible.

[0061] - facial recognition as part of video centration in combination with iris recognition as part of centration or focusing for aberrometry;

[0062] - a fundus or back-of-the-eye image in combination with iris recognition as part of centration or focusing for aberrometry or from an ocular imaging study; and

[0063] - facial recognition as part of video centration in combination with iris recognition as part of video centration can be particularly advantageous.

[0064] In one implementation, determining a patient ID based on determined (first or second) identification data includes determining a measure of the correspondence of the determined identification data, in a further development of the at least two identification characteristics of the patient of the first and / or second identification data, with provided comparison data of one or 120464P1423PC 12 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0065] P2323 PCT of several patients, preferably determining the patient ID(s) of the patient(s) with the highest match(es) as the (most likely) patient ID of the patient.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, determining a patient ID based on determined (first or second) identification data includes selecting a patient ID or a hierarchized subgroup of patient IDs from a provided group of patient IDs based on the determined identification data, wherein preferably the patient ID(s) with the highest determined match(es) of the determined identification data with the comparison data of the provided group of patient IDs are selected and preferably hierarchized according to their matches.

[0067] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, determining a patient ID based on determined (first or second) identification data includes proposing at least one patient ID based on the determined identification data, preferably proposing the patient ID(s) with the highest determined match(es) of the determined identification data with the comparison data of the provided group of patient IDs.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, determining a patient ID based on determined (first or second) identification data includes validating a provided patient ID based on the determined identification data, whereby preferably the provided patient ID is determined to be valid if the correspondence between the determined identification data and comparison data of the provided patient ID is sufficiently high.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively, in one implementation, determining a patient ID based on determined (first or second) identification data includes adding a patient ID to a provided group of patient IDs based on the determined identification data. Accordingly, determining 120464P1423PC 13 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0070] P2323 PCT of a patient ID, in particular, also includes or may include the creation of a new patient ID.

[0071] One or more of the aforementioned features can further improve patient handling, in particular reducing effort, especially in terms of time and / or logistics, and / or increasing reliability.

[0072] In one version, during further training, the determined patient ID and / or the provided group of patient IDs is stored in a device-specific database, in one version of the first measuring device. This can reduce effort and / or increase reliability.

[0073] In one implementation, the determined patient ID and / or the provided group of patient IDs is stored in a centralized database, which, in one implementation, communicates with the first and, if applicable, the second measuring device. This allows the patient ID to be determined particularly advantageously based on a combination of two or more, preferably differently determined, identification characteristics and / or identification data obtained from two or more measurements, thereby increasing reliability. Additionally or alternatively, this facilitates the use of the patient ID determined based on the first identification data for a second measurement performed using the second measuring device.

[0074] In one version, the determined first and / or second optometric or ophthalmic measurement data are checked against the determined patient ID, and in a further training, their plausibility is verified. In a further training, comparative data, in particular reference values ​​and / or older or previously determined measurement data, are determined based on the determined patient ID. This data is retrieved from a data storage system and, in a further training, from the database, and compared with the first and / or second optometric measurements obtained during the first or second measurement. 120464P1423PC 14 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0075] P2323 PCT is compared with optometric or ophthalmic measurement data. This can increase reliability and / or detect changes in a patient. The comparison data can be stored in the same database as the determined patient ID or provided group of patient IDs, which can improve data storage and processing.

[0076] In one version, the procedure includes the following step:

[0077] - Providing an order for an arrangement which includes one or more spectacle lenses, in particular one or more spectacle lenses for one or more pairs of glasses, based on the determined patient ID and associated measurement data, which were determined using the first and / or second measurement.

[0078] This allows the ordering process to be improved with the correct measurement data for the identified patient, in particular reducing effort, especially in terms of time and / or logistics, and / or increasing reliability.

[0079] In one embodiment, the determined first and / or second ophthalmic, optometric or ophthalmic measurement data and / or the determined first and / or second identification data, in particular one or more identification features of the (respective) identification data, (each)

[0080] - Data from at least one of the patient's eyes, in a further training course

[0081] - Data from the iris of one or both of the patient's eyes; and / or

[0082] - Data of a cornea, in a further development of a corneal anterior surface determined in a version using a topographer or by other means, of one or both eyes of the patient; and / or

[0083] - Data from a lens of one or both of the patient's eyes; and / or

[0084] - Data from the fundus of one or both eyes of the patient; and / or

[0085] - Data from one or both eyes of the patient; and / or 120464P1423PC 15 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0086] P2323 PCT

[0087] - Data on an optical aberration of one or both of the patient's eyes; and / or

[0088] - Data of a pupil, in a further development of a pupil diameter, of one or both eyes of the patient; and / or

[0089] - Patient's spectacle centration data, in a further education course

[0090] - Data of a head shape; and / or

[0091] - Facial recognition data; and / or

[0092] - Data on corneal vertex distance; and / or

[0093] - Pupillary distance data; and / or are, in a further development, determined using at least one aberrometer and / or at least one camera. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the first measuring device and / or the further measuring device and / or the second measuring device comprises at least one aberrometer for determining an aberration of the eye and / or a pupil size and / or at least one topograph for determining an anterior corneal surface and / or at least one camera, in a further development at least one fundus camera for determining a fundus image and / or at least one eye camera for determining an external eye image and / or a video centration system for determining centration data. For the purposes of the present invention, spectacle centration data of the patient are understood to mean, in particular, data obtained during spectacle centration, especially (actual) centration data used for centration of spectacle lenses.are intended and / or are required for this purpose, for example eye, in particular pupil and / or corneal vertex distances or the like, and / or (auxiliary) data that are (also) collected as part of determining such (actual) centration data, but are not themselves used or intended for centration of spectacle lenses and / or are required for this purpose, for example head shape, iris images or the like.

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for

[0095] Patient identification, in particular hardware and / or software identification, especially 120464P1423PC 16 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0096] P2323 PCT is programmed to perform a procedure described herein and / or exhibits:

[0097] - Means of determining initial identification data during an initial measurement of a patient using an initial measuring device for determining ophthalmic or optometric measurement data; and

[0098] - Means of determining a patient ID based on the initial identification data obtained; and in further training:

[0099] - Means of linking the determined measurement data and the determined patient ID and / or of linking the initial identification data and the determined patient ID.

[0100] In one version, the system or its means exhibit:

[0101] - Means of determining the initial identification data based on parameters of the first measurement and / or based on additional measurement data obtained from the patient using the first or a further measuring device during the first measurement, in addition to the ophthalmic, optometric or ophthalmic measurement data; and / or

[0102] - Means for determining secondary identification data based on at least one secondary measurement of the patient for determining ophthalmic or optometric measurement data using the first or a secondary measuring device, wherein the system or its means is / are configured to determine the patient ID based also on the determined secondary identification data and / or to link this measurement data determined by means of the second measurement and the determined patient ID; and / or

[0103] - Means to

[0104] - Determining a measure of the correspondence between the identified identification data and provided comparison data of one or more patients; and / or

[0105] - Selecting a patient ID or a subset of patient IDs, particularly a hierarchical one, from a provided group of patient IDs based on the determined identification data; and / or 120464P1423PC 17 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0106] P2323 PCT

[0107] - Suggestions for at least one patient ID based on the identified identification data; and / or

[0108] - Validating a provided patient ID based on the determined identification data; and / or

[0109] - Adding a patient ID to a provided group of patient IDs based on the determined identification data; and / or

[0110] - Means for statistically processing determined identification data to determine a patient ID based on the determined identification data; and / or

[0111] - a device-specific or centralized database for storing the determined patient ID and / or the provided group of patient IDs; and / or

[0112] - Means of verifying determined ophthalmic, optometric or ophthalmic measurement data based on the determined patient ID; and / or

[0113] - Means of providing an order for an arrangement which includes at least one spectacle lens, based on the determined patient ID and associated measurement data obtained using the first and / or second measurement.

[0114] A means according to the present invention can be configured as hardware and / or software, in particular comprising at least one processing unit, preferably a microprocessor unit (CPU), graphics card (GPU), or the like, preferably connected to a storage and / or bus system via data or signals, and / or comprising one or more programs or program modules. The processing unit can be configured to execute instructions implemented as a program stored in a storage system, to acquire input signals from a data bus, and / or to output signals to a data bus. A storage system can comprise one or more, in particular different, storage media, in particular optical, magnetic, solid-state, and / or other non-volatile media. The program can be structured as follows: 120464P1423PC 18 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0115] P2323 PCT means that it embodies or is capable of executing the procedures described herein, so that the processing unit can perform the steps of such procedures and thus, in particular, carry out patient identification. A computer program product may, in one version, include a storage medium, in particular a computer-readable and / or non-volatile medium, for storing a program or instructions, or with a program or instructions stored thereon. In one version, the execution of this program or these instructions by a system or a controller, in particular a computer or an arrangement of several computers, causes the system or the controller, in particular the computer(s), to execute a procedure described herein or one or more of its steps, or the program or instructions are configured for this purpose.

[0116] In one implementation, one or more, in particular all, steps of the procedure are fully or partially computer-implemented, or one or more, in particular all, steps of the procedure are fully or partially automated, in particular by the system or its means. In one implementation, (first and / or second) identification data is determined by means of data processing based at least partially on machine learning, and / or the patient ID is determined by means of data processing based at least partially on machine learning. Artificial intelligence is particularly suitable for determining identification data and / or patient IDs in the manner described herein, in particular based on the data proposed here.

[0117] In one version, the system includes the first and, if applicable, the further or second measuring device and / or the centralized database or a corresponding centralized data storage.

[0118] In one version, the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data obtained during the first and, if applicable, second measurement of a patient using a first or second measuring device are transferred to the 120464P1423PC 19 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0119] P2323 PCT

[0120] Patients are automatically or semi-automatically assigned. This can be done directly on the measuring device itself, across multiple devices, or using a centralized database. In addition to or as an alternative to automatic or semi-automatic patient selection, validation or verification of the selected patient's identity can also be performed. Furthermore, the results of the comparisons can be used for screening purposes.

[0121] As previously explained, depending on the measurement, identifying data ("identification data") can be determined from the measurement data to be collected, and / or the measurement data to be collected, or a portion thereof, can be used as identifying data. The patient can then be identified based on this identifying data. This can preferably be done by comparing the identifying data with identifying data resulting from previous measurements taken with the same device.

[0122] In one implementation, the system can automatically select the patient whose captured identifying data best matches the identifying data stored on the device or network. Alternatively, it can check whether a certain minimum match exists and only select the patient automatically if it does. Instead of automatic selection, the system can also suggest a patient, allowing the user to confirm whether it is indeed the correct patient. If there is a sufficient match with several patients, the user can be asked which of these patients, or which is still unknown, the suggested patient.In the latter case, the user may also be asked for personal data of the patient, such as name, date of birth, and / or individual identification number. This can also occur if there is no corresponding match with any stored patient. Furthermore, the degree of match can be displayed. Should there be multiple 120464P1423PC 20 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH.

[0123] When potential patients are displayed in P2323 PCT, they can be sorted or displayed hierarchically in descending order of match. Furthermore, the patient with the highest match in the list of potential patients can already be preselected. The following combinations of measuring devices, ophthalmic or optometric measurement data to be determined, and identifying data are particularly advantageous: 120464P1423PC 21 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0124] P2323 PCT

[0125] Many ophthalmic, optometric, and optical measuring devices already incorporate at least one camera for centering, particularly focusing, which can generate an image of the iris. From this image, features of the iris can be particularly advantageously derived and used as identification data or identifying characteristics. Images can also contain only a portion of the object in question (e.g., iris, fundus, facial shape). In this case, identification can be performed based on the relevant part. It is not necessary to capture or use the entire object for identification. Furthermore, if necessary or desired, multiple features can be used to enable a (still) reliable identification.

[0126] Identification can be achieved, in particular, by comparing recorded identifying data with reference data or known identifying data already assigned to patient IDs. Reference data can be derived from previous measurements, measurements specifically conducted for this purpose, or other datasets.

[0127] Combination measuring devices can be used to obtain various data (e.g., aberrations and / or fundus images and / or external eye images). In this case, all or some of these data can be used for identification purposes to make it more reliable.

[0128] Often, a single process (e.g., ordering spectacle lenses) requires measurements using various devices (e.g., video centration and aberrometry). In these cases, accurately assigning the different measurements to each other and to the respective patients is particularly important.

[0129] Either the same identifying data can be used for this purpose (e.g., iris characteristics from the image used for base plate centering or from the centering camera), or individually adapted data can be used (e.g., head shape from the image used for base plate centering and iris characteristics from the centering camera). 120464P1423PC 22 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0130] P2323 PCT

[0131] The assignment can be done in a decentralized manner (e.g., at the respective device) (possibly using a cross-device patient ID) or centrally at a location where the measurement data from different devices (e.g., for further use, in this example, ordering glassware) are summarized.

[0132] In both cases, either device-specific data pools or databases and / or a cross-device or centralized data pool or database for the identifying data and / or comparison data can be used. A central data pool for the identifying data and / or a centralized mapping is particularly advantageous if the various mappings are at least partially based on the same identifying data.

[0133] Advantageously, additional metadata, such as the date and / or time of the measurement(s) and / or further information like a list of patients who were in the practice within a certain period, can be used. Simultaneous measurements with different devices on the same patient are not possible, while measurements within a given timeframe, e.g., two hours, are more likely. In this case, too, a central data pool for the identifying data and / or centralized data allocation is particularly advantageous. Generally, a measurement requires the patient's presence in the practice. This can be leveraged by synchronizing the data with an appointment management system.

[0134] Each of these options allows the number of potential or eligible patients to be reduced, advantageously even before a comparison, thus accelerating the comparison process, as less comparative data is required, and / or improving the reliability of identification after the comparison (e.g., if the identifying or identification data allow for different patients). 120464P1423PC 23 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0135] P2323 PCT

[0136] Since many patient, measurement, and order data are stored or processed in ordering systems, customer management programs, appointment scheduling programs, or generally integrated industry solutions (so-called "Practice Management Systems," PMS) that integrate several of these functions, a method according to the invention can preferably be integrated into such software. Preferably, orders or parts of orders, for example, aberrometry data and individual parameters, can be generated or provided without subjective refraction. As already explained, orders can be generated at least partially automatically by combining the data obtained using, if necessary, different devices into a single order based on their identification. The user can then review this data in one version and supplement it if necessary.Additionally or alternatively, patient measurements can be taken on devices without the customer being selected or even registered on those devices. Using identifying data already stored elsewhere, such as on a central server or another measuring device, a new customer or patient record can be automatically created after the measurement, either with confirmation or by selecting from several candidates. If no suitable record is found, customer or patient registration can be forced to prevent unassigned measurements.

[0137] A particularly advantageous example of identification data or identification features are parts of the iris, which are preferably determined using various measuring devices.

[0138] Advantageously, existing data records within a device or across devices can be checked for duplicates and merged. Examples include (e.g., after a marriage or divorce) changed surnames, incorrectly or inconsistently recorded first names (e.g., Michel, Michl, Michael, ...), incorrectly or inconsistently recorded or generically entered birth dates, and the like. 120464P1423PC 24 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0139] P2323 PCT

[0140] Even with manually assigned measurements, plausibility checks can be performed, particularly using data from across different devices. In addition to the previously mentioned identifying data, non-identifying data can also be used. One example is the total pupillary distance, which is determined both during aberrometry measurements and video centration, where a certain degree of blurring can be specified. Another example would be pupil sizes. Aberrometry can determine a mesopic pupil size, topography a photopic pupil size, and video centration another. A plausibility check, possibly with a defined degree of blurring, can then verify whether the photopic pupil is smaller than the mesopic pupil and whether the other pupil size lies between the two values.

[0141] In addition to measurement data, other data can also be used. For example, the addition of pupils or pupillary repetition can be checked to see if it falls within the expected range for the patient's age. Plausibility can also be verified against older data. For instance, with age, accommodation and pupillary repetition typically decrease rather than increase, while in children, an increase rather than a decrease in myopia is more likely. Other parameters, such as total pupillary distance, increase in children and adolescents, while remaining largely constant after a certain age. Similarly, an opacity chart would more likely show an increase in dark areas (e.g., due to cataracts or corneal or lens injuries) or a general clouding (e.g., due to cataracts).

[0142] Another example would be an increase in intraocular pressure, even if it is still within the typical range. The correlations used for plausibility checks or screening can be found, for example, in the literature. Furthermore, new correlations can be derived from existing cross-patient datasets, either once, several times, or continuously. This can also be done with computer support, particularly using artificial intelligence or data processing based at least partially on machine learning, such as neural networks. 120464P1423PC 25 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0143] P2323 PCT

[0144] In the field of ophthalmic optics, an advantageous workflow would be one in which the data comparison according to the invention can be used multiple times: anamnesis — aberrometery — subjective refraction — video centration — ordering — supplementary ordering with further parameters and / or options. In the anamnesis phase, automatic identification is also possible, for example, based on the head shape determined with a camera (known from the video centration of previous orders).

[0145] If validation is successful, the display may show, for example, the patient's name or the data record with a corresponding positive marker, such as a checkmark (especially green) or similar. If validation fails, a warning marker may be displayed, such as an exclamation mark (especially red), or a query may appear, possibly with an alternative patient.

[0146] Particularly for data protection reasons, it can be advantageous not to perform data matching based on measured data, but rather to derive a value locally from measured data, e.g., by calculating a hash value or a feature vector (in a further training course, hash values ​​and / or feature vectors of a machine learning classifier), and to compare this derived value with previously stored derived data. To avoid false negatives, similarity comparisons can be used. Preferably, algorithms that allow similarity comparisons are employed, such as locality-sensitive hashing (LSH) algorithms and feature vectors of an ML classifier, with the latter being particularly advantageous because they allow for a very precise definition of similarity criteria.

[0147] The hash values ​​and / or feature vectors mentioned here can also be determined partially or completely analytically or using algorithms that are not machine learning algorithms. 120464P1423PC 26 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0148] P2323 PCT

[0149] Further advantages and features will become apparent from the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments. These are shown, in part schematically:

[0150] Fig. 1: a system performing patient identification according to one embodiment of the present invention; and

[0151] Fig. 2: a method for patient identification according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Fig. 1 shows a system performing patient identification according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 shows a corresponding method.

[0153] In step S10 (see Fig. 2) during a first measurement of a patient P using a first measuring device 1 to determine ophthalmic or optometric measurement data, for example (iris recognition within the framework of (centration or focusing for a)) aberrometry, initial identification data are determined, for example data of an iris.

[0154] In step S20, during a second measurement of the patient P using a second measuring device 2 to determine ophthalmic or optometric measurement data, for example video centration or fundus recording, second identification data are determined, for example spectacle centration data or data of a fundus.

[0155] In step S30, a patient ID is determined based on the identified first and second identification data. From a group of patient IDs provided by a centralized database on computer 3, the patient ID(s) for which the associated comparison data shows the highest match with the determined identification data can be selected and proposed. If there is no sufficiently high match, an error message can be displayed and / or a corresponding new patient ID can be created. The proposal can be accepted via user input or a [missing text - likely a separate document or similar] (120464P1423PC 27 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH)

[0156] P2323 PCT

[0157] User-provided or suggested patient IDs are determined or classified as valid if there is a sufficiently high degree of similarity.

[0158] In step S40, the determined patient ID is linked to the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data obtained during the first and second measurements, and in step S50, an order for one or more spectacle lenses is prepared based on the determined patient ID and the associated measurement data.

[0159] In the present disclosure, "has an X" does not generally imply an exhaustive list, but is a shorthand for "has at least one X" and also includes "has two or more X" as well as "has Y in addition to X". Although exemplary examples were explained in the preceding description, it should be noted that a multitude of variations are possible.

[0160] In particularly advantageous configurations, eye imaging can be performed using one of the measuring devices 1, 2. Additionally or alternatively, a combination device can be used instead of two measuring devices 1, 2. In particular, this allows for facial recognition within the framework of video centration in combination with iris recognition within the framework of video centration. It can be advantageous to determine a patient ID, either initially or already in step S10, based on the initial identification data obtained, using the first and second measuring devices 1, 2 or (only) the first measuring device 1, and, if necessary, to combine this ID with the ophthalmic, optometric, or other data obtained during the first measurement.to link ophthalmic measurement data technically, and in S30 to determine a patient ID based on the second identification data determined (using the second measuring device or instead using the first measuring device), whereby the optometric or ophthalmic measurement data determined during the second measurement are linked technically with this patient ID and / or the patient ID 120464P1423PC 28 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH.

[0161] The P2323 PCT linked first identification data may be updated based on the determined second identification data.

[0162] As is particularly evident from these especially advantageous examples, it can generally be particularly advantageous to determine the patient ID based on a combination of two or more patient identification features contained in (the first) identification data, and / or a combination of identification data obtained from two or more measurements. This can particularly increase reliability, especially when using iris data in combination with fundus data and / or ocular imaging data and / or spectacle or video centration data. As is also particularly evident from these especially advantageous examples, optometric and ophthalmic measurement data and / or identification data can be used for centration of spectacle lenses.required data (“patient’s spectacle centration data”), such as eye distances, especially pupil and / or vertex distances, or similar, must be present.

[0163] Additionally or alternatively, instead of the centralized database of the computer 3, a device-specific database can also be used in the first and / or second measuring device 1 or 2, and a method according to the invention can be carried out on the first and / or second measuring device 1 or 2.

[0164] Furthermore, it should be noted that the exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to restrict the scope of protection, applications, or structure in any way. Rather, the preceding description provides the skilled person with a guideline for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment, whereby various modifications, particularly with regard to the function and arrangement of the described components, can be made without departing from the scope of protection as defined by the claims and these equivalent combinations of features. 120464P1423PC 29 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH

[0165] P2323 PCT

[0166] List of reference signs

[0167] 1 first measuring device

[0168] 2 second measuring device 3 computer with centralized database

[0169] Patient

Claims

120464P1423PC 30 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH P2323 PCT Patent claims 1. Patient identification procedure comprising the following steps: - Determining (S10) initial identification data during an initial measurement of a patient (P) using an initial measuring device (1) for determining ophthalmic or optometric measurement data; and - Determine (S30) a patient ID of the patient based on the determined initial identification data.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized by the step: - Linking (S40) the determined measurement data and the determined patient ID and / or linking the first identification data and the determined patient ID.

3. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first identification data comprise ophthalmic or optometric data and / or data derived therefrom and / or that the first identification data are based on the measurement data obtained during the first measurement using the first measuring device and / or data derived therefrom.

4. Method according to claim 3, characterized in that the derived data comprise at least one hash value and / or at least one feature vector, in particular a classifier based at least partially on machine learning, and / or that the first identification data comprise at least one part of the measurement data obtained during the first measurement using the first measuring device and / or data derived therefrom.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first identification data are determined on the basis of parameters of the first measurement and / or on the basis of additional measurement data, which are obtained from the patient using the first or a further 120464P1423PC 31 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH P2323 PCT The measuring device is used to determine the data during the first measurement in addition to the ophthalmic or optometric measurement data.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the step: - Determining (S20) second identification data based on at least one second measurement of the patient (P) to determine ophthalmic or optometric measurement data using the first or a second measuring device (2); wherein the patient ID is also determined on the basis of the determined second identification data (S30) and / or these measurement data determined by means of the second measurement and the determined patient ID are linked (S40).

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or second measuring device is a stationary measuring device and / or the first and / or second measurement comprises receiving radiation from the patient and / or illuminating one eye of the patient.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the identified identification data includes at least two patient identification features; and / or that the determination of a patient ID based on identified identification data includes: - Determining a measure of the correspondence between the identified identification data and provided comparison data of one or more patients; and / or - a statistics-based processing of the determined identification data; and / or 120464P1423PC 32 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH P2323 PCT - Selection of a patient ID or a subset of patient IDs, particularly a hierarchical one, from a provided group of patient IDs based on the identified identification data; and / or - Suggestions for at least one patient ID based on the identified identification data; and / or - Validating a provided patient ID based on the determined identification data; and / or - Adding a patient ID to a provided group of patient IDs based on the identified identification data.

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determined patient ID and / or the provided group of patient IDs is stored in a device-specific or centralized database.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that determined ophthalmic or optometric measurement data are checked on the basis of the determined patient ID.

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the step: - Providing (S50) an order for an arrangement which includes at least one spectacle lens, based on the determined patient ID and associated measurement data obtained using the first and / or second measurement.

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that determined ophthalmic or optometric measurement data and / or identification data are data of at least one eye of the patient, in particular of an iris and / or cornea and / or lens and / or fundus and / or vitreous body and / or aberration of at least one eye of the patient, and / or 120464P1423PC 33 / 34 Rodenstock GmbH P2323 PCT Spectacle centration data of the patient and / or determined using at least one aberrometer and / or at least one camera.

13. Patient identification system configured and / or comprising: - Means for determining initial identification data during a first Measurement of a patient using a primary measuring device to determine ophthalmic or optometric measurement data; and - Means of determining a patient ID based on the initial identification data obtained.

14. Computer program or computer program product, wherein the A computer program or computer program product, in particular stored on a computer-readable and / or non-volatile storage medium, containing instructions which, when executed by one or more computers or a system according to claim 13, cause the computer(s) or system to perform a method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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