Combined OCT System for Eye Dimension Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic methods for the eye require multiple devices with different measurement principles, leading to inefficiencies in data integration and increased time and cost, as well as inadequate accuracy for precise refractive surgery planning.
Innovation Solution
A combined system integrating multiple optical coherence tomography (OCT) devices with different axial and lateral resolutions, allowing for simultaneous measurement of various internal eye dimensions with varying levels of precision, reducing the need for multiple devices and streamlining data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple different diagnosis devices with different measurement principles are used to obtain precise diagnostic data of different sections of the eye, then measurement precision for specific sections is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase due to sequential usage and data integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple OCT devices with different resolutions into a single integrated system. The system includes a first OCT device with high axial resolution for measuring the corneal and anterior segment, and a second OCT device with lower axial resolution for measuring the total eye length and posterior segment, merging their functions into one unified diagnosis device that eliminates the need for sequential measurements with separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated OCT system performs multiple measurement functions simultaneously - it can measure both the anterior segment with high precision (5-10 μm axial resolution) and the posterior segment with adequate precision (50 μm axial resolution) using a single device, making the system universal for comprehensive eye diagnosis without requiring multiple specialized devices
2Measurement precision
If multiple different diagnosis devices are used sequentially to measure different sections of the eye, then measurement precision for various sections is improved, but loss of time increases due to sequential measurements and device adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement functions of multiple devices into one integrated OCT system that can simultaneously or sequentially measure different eye sections without requiring physical relocation or re-adjustment between devices, eliminating the time loss associated with sequential device usage
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements of the entire eye structure in one setup, capturing both anterior and posterior segment data during a single measurement session, thereby preventing the need for subsequent adjustments and re-positioning that would consume additional time
3Measurement precision
If a single OCT device with high axial resolution is used to measure the entire eye, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and measurement time increase due to the need to capture both detailed anterior and extensive posterior structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different resolution characteristics to different measurement zones - the first OCT device provides high axial resolution (5-10 μm) for the anterior segment where precise topography is critical, while the second OCT device provides adequate axial resolution (50 μm) for the posterior segment where lower precision is sufficient, optimizing productivity without sacrificing necessary measurement quality
4Measurement precision
If multiple diagnosis devices are used to measure different eye sections, then measurement precision for each section is improved, but loss of information occurs due to difficulties in integrating data from different measurement principles into a unified eye model
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data acquisition systems into a single integrated OCT device that captures all measurement data using consistent optical coherence tomography principles, eliminating the data integration problems that arise when combining measurements from devices based on different measurement principles and preventing information loss in the unified eye model
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 integrated system enables precise, efficient measurement of internal eye dimensions, facilitating more accurate refractive surgery planning and reducing patient suffering and diagnostic time by consolidating data from multiple sources into a single, comprehensive model.
Implementation Method 1
system and method for optically measuring internal dimensions of an object by means of optical coherence tomography
Implementation Method 2
internal interfaces at which the (optical) refraction index changes, so that a portion of incident light is backreflected
Implementation Method 3
a portion of incident light is backreflected and/or backscattered and can be detected
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (OCT12 - OCT12"') is provided for optically measuring internal dimensions of a sample object (10), for example an eye (20), said object comprising internal interfaces (14, 14', 14") at which the refraction index changes so that a portion of incident light is backreflected and/or backscattered and can be detected, by means of optical coherence tomography (OCT), comprising at least one first OCT device (OCT1) adapted to measure internal dimensions in a first partial volume (17) of the object (10), characterized by a combination with at least one second OCT device (OCT2) adapted to measure internal dimensions in a second partial volume (19) of the same object (10), wherein the second partial volume (19) is at least partially different from the first partial volume (17). The first and second OCT devices (OCT1, OCT2) may share at least partially spatially superimposed first and second sample arms (SA1, SA2), which may have respective different focal lengths (f1, f2) and pass through a common optical lens system (L12) toward the object, and which may share a common light source (LS12). Internal dimensions in a first partial volume (17) of the object and internal dimensions in a second partial volume (19) of the same object (10) are measured by means of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in a single measurement operation, but with different spatial resolution.