Circular Image Visual Axis Centration and Retinal Function Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing and maintaining ocular centration of the visual axis during surgical procedures and other activities are inadequate, particularly as they cause patient discomfort and may not accurately reflect the visual axis alignment due to reliance on single beams of light, which can lead to inaccurate centration and potential complications.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing a circular image with a sufficient area for the patient to focus on, allowing for self-centering of the visual axis, which is projected onto a lens or displayed in the visual pathway, enabling precise alignment and centration of optical elements without discomfort, using software to adjust image size and brightness, and allowing for measurement of retinal function by assessing recovery times after light stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single beam of light is used to assess ocular centration, then the assessment method is simple, but the accuracy of visual axis alignment is poor and patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single beam of light into multiple discrete light beams arranged in a circular pattern. This segmentation allows the system to assess ocular centration across multiple spatial points simultaneously, improving measurement accuracy while distributing the light exposure to reduce patient discomfort at any single location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional single beam approach to a two-dimensional circular array of light beams. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive assessment of visual axis alignment across the retinal surface, significantly improving measurement precision while allowing the light distribution to be optimized for patient comfort.
2Reliability
If a single beam of light is used to assess ocular centration, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of centration assessment is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light source into multiple discrete beams arranged circularly, enabling reliable assessment of ocular centration by comparing light reflection patterns across multiple points. This segmentation improves reliability without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, as the circular array provides stable, repeatable measurement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the reflected light patterns from the multiple beams are analyzed to determine visual axis alignment. This feedback loop continuously monitors and assesses centration reliability, allowing the system to maintain high reliability through systematic evaluation of light reflection characteristics across the circular beam array.
3Measurement precision
If a circular image is projected onto a lens in the visual pathway, then accurate visual alignment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the circular image projection system to serve multiple functions: it provides visual alignment guidance, assesses ocular centration, and evaluates retinal function simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices for each assessment type, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a circular image projected onto a lens as an intermediary element that facilitates accurate visual alignment. This intermediary provides a visual reference that guides the patient's fixation while simultaneously serving as a measurement tool for assessing centration, thereby achieving high precision without requiring direct complex interaction between the measurement device and the patient's eye.
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 ensures accurate and comfortable centration of the visual axis during procedures and activities, reducing the risk of complications by providing a non-invasive means to maintain alignment and assess retinal function, even in cases of damaged retinas, and allows for the evaluation of retinal and foveal health over time.
Implementation Method 1
The circular image may be on a pair of glasses (spectacles) worn by an individual... The lens may be an intraocular lens inserted in the eye, or the lens may be external to the eye (e.g., glasses worn by a user)
Implementation Method 2
FIG. 8 depicts photoreceptor fatigue and exhausted photoreceptor recovery... determining a time interval between a patient seeing a continuous line and a discontinuous line
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device to assess centration of a visual axis, evaluate retinal function, foveal function, and/or visual field.