Convertible Anterior and Posterior Eye Imaging With Afocal Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems for imaging both the anterior and posterior surfaces of the eye are complex, expensive, and suffer from chromatic aberrations, limited field-of-view, and inability to adapt to different modes of operation.
Innovation Solution
A portable, handheld optical camera system using a first lens system with afocal relay and two optically-matched lenses that can be reconfigured to interchangeably image posterior and anterior eye surfaces, maintaining unity magnification and wide field-of-view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional slit-lamp-based optical system with an ophthalmic lens is used to image both anterior and posterior surfaces of the eye, then imaging capability is achieved, but the system becomes complex and expensive with chromatic aberrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single optical system that can function as both a slit lamp for anterior segment imaging and a fundus camera for posterior segment imaging. By using a retractable ophthalmic lens that can be inserted or removed, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system incorporates a dynamically adjustable configuration where the ophthalmic lens can be retracted or extended based on the imaging mode required. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt between anterior and posterior segment imaging, reducing complexity by avoiding the need for multiple fixed optical paths
2Adaptability or versatility
If an ophthalmic lens is added to the slit-lamp system for posterior chamber imaging, then fundus imaging is enabled, but chromatic aberrations occur due to insufficient correction
Solution Approach 1:
The ophthalmic lens is designed with achromatic correction that enables it to function effectively for both anterior segment imaging (when extended) and fundus imaging (when retracted). This universal design with proper chromatic correction eliminates the need for separate lenses optimized for different functions, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling versatile imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system changes its effective parameters by adjusting the position of the ophthalmic lens. When the lens is retracted, the system is optimized for anterior segment imaging; when extended, it is optimized for fundus imaging. This parameter change approach allows a single lens with adequate chromatic correction to perform multiple functions without requiring separate highly-corrected lenses
3Manufacturing precision
If the optical system is designed for direct viewing through an eyepiece with well-corrected aberrations, then imaging quality is improved, but the system becomes complicated and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a smartphone camera to capture optical images of the eye, replacing the need for expensive eyepiece-based direct viewing systems. The smartphone's camera sensor acts as a digital copy mechanism, allowing the optical system to be simplified while maintaining imaging quality through digital capture and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the smartphone camera as a disposable or replaceable imaging component. Instead of investing in expensive, highly-corrected eyepiece systems, the invention uses the readily available, cost-effective smartphone camera to achieve the same imaging function, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adequate image quality
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 system provides a cost-effective, simple, and efficient solution for imaging both eye surfaces with reduced chromatic aberrations and enhanced operational flexibility, compatible with mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens system of an first optical system housed in a body of a mobile telecommunication device
Implementation Method 2
an afocal relay including first and second lenses that possess equal optical properties
Data Source
AI summary
An reconfigurable optical arrangement for imaging posterior and anterior surfaces of a visual system. The optical arrangement includes a relay containing first and second lenses each having a positive optical power and detachably cooperated with one another such that the first lens and the second lens form an afocal system configured to form a conjugate relationship between the first plane and the second plane. In a related embodiment, the optical arrangement may include a first lens system of an first optical system housed in a body of a mobile telecommunication device and an afocal relay including first and second lenses that possess equal optical properties. Here, the afocal relay is configured to have a unity magnification and to provide diffraction-limited imaging within a spectral range from at least 486 nm to at least 656 nm. The method for imaging with the use of the optical arrangement.