Binocular Vision Analyzer Using Wavefront Sensor and Adaptive Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining visual aid prescriptions are limited by instrument myopia, unnatural viewing conditions, and the separation of objective and subjective measurement techniques, which affect accuracy and the ability to account for individual subjective tolerance to optical designs.
Innovation Solution
A binocular vision analyzer apparatus that uses virtual heads-up displays, an optometer unit, a wavefront sensor unit, and adaptive optics to combine objective and subjective refraction techniques, allowing for binocular vergence control, aberration measurement and correction, and simulation of optical performance under natural viewing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If auto-refractor is used for objective measurement, then measurement speed is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to instrument myopia and unnatural viewing conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines objective wavefront sensor measurement with subjective patient feedback into a single integrated refraction process. The objective measurement provides initial values and aberration data, while the subjective refraction allows the patient to express preference, merging both approaches to achieve accurate prescription determination without the limitations of purely objective methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a trial frame or phoropter head as an intermediary device that presents various lens configurations to the patient. This intermediary allows the objective measurement results to be translated into forms that can be subjectively evaluated by the patient, bridging the gap between automated measurement and human judgment.
2Device complexity
If monocular refraction is performed for each eye separately, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to lack of binocular interaction effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures both eyes simultaneously using the wavefront sensor while the patient views a target, capturing binocular interaction effects. This combined measurement approach reveals how the eyes work together, including detection of heterophoria and other binocular conditions that would be missed in separate monocular measurements.
3Measurement precision
If subjective refraction is performed with trial frame, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to multiple separate tests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple refraction measurements and aberration assessments into a single integrated process. The wavefront sensor simultaneously captures spherical error, cylindrical error, axis orientation, and higher-order aberrations while the patient views a target, eliminating the need for multiple separate tests and significantly reducing examination time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary objective wavefront measurement to establish initial refraction values and aberration profiles before proceeding to subjective refinement. This preliminary action provides a comprehensive baseline that guides the subsequent subjective refraction process, making it more efficient and targeted.
4Measurement precision
If wavefront sensor is used for aberration measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single wavefront sensor system that performs multiple functions: measuring spherical error, cylindrical error, axis orientation, and higher-order aberrations. This multi-functional device replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate instruments, achieving comprehensive measurement capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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
This approach improves the accuracy of visual aid prescriptions by integrating objective and subjective measurements, enabling precise control of vergence and subjective feedback, and simulating optical performance to assess individual tolerance before manufacturing visual aids.
Implementation Method 1
at least one beam splitter disposed in front of the first and second eyes directs the virtual images toward the respective eyes
Implementation Method 2
Wavefront sensors provide a more detailed objective picture of visual performance by measuring lower and higher order aberrations of the eye
Implementation Method 3
Recently introduced ocular aberration based techniques for prescribing visual aids appear to partially overcome the need for subjective refraction
Data Source
AI summary
A binocular vision analyzer apparatus is used for determining a prescription of visual aids for the eyes of an individual. The apparatus includes first and second targets respectively corresponding to the first and second eyes of the individual and at least one illuminator unit for illuminating the targets. An optical system is configured to present respective virtual images of the first and second targets so as to be viewable by the respective first and second eyes. At least one beam splitter disposed in front of the first and second eyes directs the virtual images toward the respective eyes. The apparatus also includes first and second spherical correction devices and first and second cylindrical correction devices that respectively correspond to the first and second eyes.