Dual Scheimpflug Cameras for 3D Eye Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current eye analysis technologies face challenges in providing accurate, non-invasive, and efficient measurement of corneal topography and anterior segment analysis, particularly in detecting irregularities like keratoconus, and require user intervention and complex alignment processes.
Innovation Solution
A fully automatic ophthalmologic analyzer using a pair of rotating Scheimpflug cameras positioned perpendicular to each other, coupled with a tracking camera system for real-time eye movement tracking and auto-alignment, enabling precise measurement of corneal curvature, thickness, and anterior chamber volume, and generating three-dimensional representations of the eye's surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single Scheimpflug camera is used for eye analysis, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and three-dimensional analysis capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement task into two perpendicular meridians (first and second Scheimpflug cameras positioned at 90 degrees), each capturing specific cross-sectional views of the cornea. This segmentation allows comprehensive 3D reconstruction from multiple angles while maintaining manageable individual camera systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-plane imaging to three-dimensional analysis by positioning cameras in perpendicular orientations. The rotation mechanism adds temporal dimension, capturing the cornea from multiple angular positions to generate complete topographic maps and elevation data
2Ease of operation
If manual alignment procedures are used for eye analysis, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation and examination efficiency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking camera continuously monitors eye position and provides real-time feedback to the control system. The auto-alignment mechanics adjust the optical system based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains optimal alignment without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-alignment through automated tracking and adjustment mechanisms. The optical system automatically compensates for eye movement and positioning errors, eliminating the need for operator intervention during the examination process
3Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision for irregular corneas is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The Scheimpflug imaging system provides varying image planes at different depths, allowing detailed local analysis of specific corneal regions. The tilted camera plane captures sharp images of irregular surfaces by matching the plane of focus to the local corneal curvature at each measurement point
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating Scheimpflug cameras dynamically adjust the imaging plane orientation during examination. The rotation mechanism allows the system to adapt to different corneal curvatures and irregularities by changing the angular position, maintaining optimal focus across varying surface geometries
4Measurement precision
If multiple meridians are measured for three-dimensional analysis, then the measurement precision is improved, but the examination time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Scheimpflug cameras rotate continuously during the examination, capturing images at multiple meridians in a single uninterrupted motion. This continuous rotation allows measurement of all anterior chamber surfaces (cornea, iris, lens) across 360 degrees without stopping, maintaining measurement quality while minimizing examination time
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2~4B
AI summary
An apparatus for imaging an eye can include a pair of Scheimpflug imaging systems. Each Scheimpflug imaging system can have respective video cameras and optics configured to direct light reflected from an eye into the video cameras. The apparatus can also have a movable platform configured to move the pair of Scheimpflug imaging systems in accordance with eye movement detected by an eye tracking imaging system. In some embodiments, the Scheimpflug imaging systems can rotate 90 degrees about an optical axis of an eye being examined.