Self-Positioning Eye Examination Mirror with Integrated Illumination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for self-inspection of the eye, particularly for conditions like blepharitis and contact lens issues, lack a convenient and effective device for magnified visualization of the eye and surrounding areas, making it difficult for individuals to adequately remove debris and bacteria without professional assistance.

Innovation Solution

A portable eye examination device with a mirror, integrated light, and a projection feature that assists in positioning the mirror correctly over the eye, providing magnification and illumination for self-inspection, potentially integrated with a digital camera and Bluetooth capabilities for image capture and review.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a magnifying device is used for eye inspection, then the visualization detail is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisualization detailVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into distinct functional components: a handle for holding, a projection for positioning, a mirror for magnification, and a light for illumination. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while keeping the overall device simple and manageable for self-examination use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The projection acts as an intermediary element that facilitates correct positioning of the mirror relative to the eye. By providing a physical reference that rests on the cheek, it mediates between the user's hand positioning and the optical requirements of the mirror, ensuring proper focal alignment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the mirror is positioned close to the eye for detailed inspection, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection detailVSAvoidease of positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The projection is pre-configured with a specific length corresponding to the focal length of the mirror. This preliminary design ensures that when the projection rests on the user's cheek, the mirror is automatically positioned at the correct distance from the eye, eliminating the need for the user to manually adjust the positioning during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to self-position correctly through the projection resting on the cheek. The geometric relationship between the projection length and mirror focal length creates a self-aligning system that automatically achieves the proper inspection distance without requiring user skill or adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If frequent doctor visits are performed for eye monitoring, then the reliability of eye condition monitoring is improved, but the loss of time and financial resources increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeye condition monitoringVSAvoidtime and financial resources
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables patients to perform self-examinations at home, transferring the monitoring function from professional medical settings to patient self-care. The combination of magnification, illumination, and positioning features provides sufficient inspection capability for routine monitoring without requiring professional intervention for every check

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device serves multiple functions in a single unit: magnification for detail visualization, illumination for adequate lighting, and positioning guidance for correct alignment. This multi-functionality makes it suitable for various eye conditions and examination needs, replacing multiple separate tools or professional visits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables users to perform effective self-inspection of the eye and surrounding areas, improving the ability to detect and remove debris and bacteria, and facilitating regular monitoring of eye health without frequent medical visits.

Implementation Method 1

a mirror connected to the body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The predefined length of the projection is defined by a focal length of the mirror

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFocusing: Focusing

Implementation Method 3

a light integrated in the body adjacent to the mirror

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight: Light

Data Source

PatentUS10143371B2Eye examination device
Publication Date: 2018.12.04 MYCO INDS INC
  • US10143371B2 patent drawing
  • US10143371B2 patent drawing
  • US10143371B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An eye examination device may include a body defining a handle and a retainer for a mirror. The device may further include a projection having a predefined length from the body. The predefined length of the projection is defined by a focal length of the mirror. The device may further include a light integrated in the retainer adjacent to the mirror.