Articulatable Retinal Camera for Wide-Field Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical imaging technologies for diagnosing diabetic retinopathy and other eye diseases are limited by their high cost, complexity, and restricted field of view, making them inaccessible and ineffective for early detection, especially in the periphery of the retina.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a contact device with a small articulatable imager that provides a wide-angle view, allowing for the use of multiple spectrums and wavelengths to visualize eye anatomy, including a camera with an actuator that moves to offset positions for enhanced viewing, and a processor for image processing, enabling a wider field of view and more affordable diagnostics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional microscope-like devices with fixed field of view (20-50 degrees) are used, then device complexity is reduced, but the field of view is limited and peripheral retinal detection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is made articulatable with respect to the optical axis of the housing, allowing dynamic adjustment of the viewing angle. The actuator enables the camera to rotate between a first position (aligned with optical axis) and a second position (offset from optical axis), transforming a static imaging system into a dynamic one that can capture both central and peripheral retinal views.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging function is segmented into multiple viewing positions. The camera can be positioned at different angles relative to the optical axis, with each position capturing a specific sector of the retinal field. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of the retina by combining multiple limited-angle views.
2Measurement precision
If coherence tomography or confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope technologies are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex coherence tomography or confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope systems, the invention employs a simpler camera-based imaging system that captures optical images of the retina. The camera records light reflected from retinal structures, creating visual copies of the retinal anatomy that can be analyzed for diabetic retinopathy detection without requiring the sophisticated interferometric or laser scanning mechanisms of advanced imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex medical imaging equipment with a more affordable camera system. While the camera may have limitations compared to high-end imaging devices, it provides sufficient functionality for detecting diabetic retinopathy at a lower cost, making the technology more accessible to clinics and patients.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the camera remains in the same position relative to the eye surface, then device complexity is reduced, but the angle of view remains limited
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is made articulatable with respect to the optical axis of the housing, allowing dynamic adjustment of the viewing angle. The actuator enables the camera to rotate between a first position (aligned with optical axis) and a second position (offset from optical axis), transforming a static imaging system into a dynamic one that can capture both central and peripheral retinal views.
4Measurement precision
If newer optical imaging techniques are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex coherence tomography or confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope systems, the invention employs a simpler camera-based imaging system that captures optical images of the retina. The camera records light reflected from retinal structures, creating visual copies of the retinal anatomy that can be analyzed for diabetic retinopathy detection without requiring the sophisticated interferometric or laser scanning mechanisms of advanced imaging systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for visualization of eye anatomy includes at least one camera having a view vector along a first axis when in a first position, a housing to which the at least one camera is coupled, wherein the housing is configured to engage an eye of a patient such that the at least one camera is positioned adjacent the eye, and an actuator that moves the at least one camera from the first position to a second position, wherein the at least one camera, when in the second position, has a view vector along a second axis that is offset from the first axis.