Anamorphic Depth Gauge for Precise Intraocular Laser Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic systems fail to provide adequate imaging and depth measurement for targets within the eye, particularly during laser treatments like laser vitreolysis.
Innovation Solution
An anamorphic depth gauge (ADG) device with a detector array and optical elements is used to measure the z-location of targets within the eye, generating images and determining the optimal focus position for precise laser targeting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical coherence tomography is used for depth measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the depth measurement function from complex optical coherence tomography systems and implements it using a simplified anamorphic optical setup with a line focus and linear detector array, achieving adequate depth measurement without the complexity of full OCT systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive optical components (cylindrical lens, linear detector array) to create a cost-effective depth gauge that sacrifices some precision compared to OCT but provides sufficient performance for laser targeting applications
2Measurement precision
If optical coherence tomography is used for depth measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but signal processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential depth measurement capability from complex OCT signal processing by using geometric optics and simple detector positioning to directly encode depth information in the spatial distribution of focused light on the linear array
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex signal processing algorithms with a geometric optical system where depth information is directly mapped to spatial positions on the detector array through the anamorphic focus geometry
3Measurement precision
If adequate imaging and depth measurement are provided, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges imaging and depth measurement functions into a single integrated optical path using the anamorphic focus geometry, where the same focused light beam provides both imaging information on the linear array and depth information through the line focus position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional optical system where the anamorphic focus mechanism simultaneously performs imaging, depth measurement, and laser targeting guidance, eliminating the need for separate systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The ADG device enables accurate depth measurement and imaging, allowing for precise laser targeting and three-dimensional image generation, while being less expensive and requiring minimal signal processing compared to optical coherence tomography.
Implementation Method 1
The set of line focus optical elements focuses the light beam to form a line focus on the detector array
Implementation Method 2
the set of nominal focus optical elements focuses the light beam to form a nominal focus on the detector array
Implementation Method 3
The array generates a detector signal in response to detecting a light beam
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic system includes an anamorphic depth gauge (ADG) device and a computer. The ADG device measures the z-location in the interior of an eye and includes a detector array arranged at an oblique angle with respect to the z-axis. The array generates a detector signal in response to detecting a light beam, which has a z-focus in the interior of the eye. A set of line focus optical elements focuses the light beam to form a line focus on the detector array, and a set of nominal focus optical elements focuses the light beam to form a nominal focus on the detector array. The computer: generates an image using the detector signal; determines the position of the nominal focus on the line focus according to the image; and determines the z-location of the z-focus from the position of the nominal focus on the line focus.