Eye Imaging System with Artifact Elimination via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current eye imaging technologies face challenges in obtaining high-quality, wide-field, artifact-free stereo images with ease of operator use, proper alignment, focus, and exposure for both dilated and undilated pupils, especially in the posterior and anterior segments of the eye.
Innovation Solution
A system and method combining innovative optical, mechanical, and image processing techniques, including optical coherence tomography integration, adjustable illumination, flipping masks, and image processing algorithms to eliminate artifacts and achieve wide field views, suitable for various imaging modes and configurations such as hand-held, microscope-mounted, and slit lamp integrated setups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional fundus cameras are used to image the eye, then images can be obtained, but the field of view is limited and artifacts are present
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system divides the eye examination into multiple sequential captures of different regions (anterior segment, posterior segment, macula, periphery) and combines them into a comprehensive mosaic image. This segmentation allows wide field coverage while maintaining image quality in each region.
Solution Approach 2:
A series of optical intermediaries including dichroic mirrors, beam splitters, and relay lenses are used to redirect light paths between the illumination source, the eye, and the image sensor. These intermediaries enable flexible optical routing to achieve wide field views while eliminating artifacts through controlled light paths.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the imaging system is designed for high image quality, then artifact-free images are obtained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is designed as a multi-functional device that can capture anterior segment, posterior segment, macular, and peripheral images using the same optical platform. By integrating multiple imaging capabilities into one system, complexity is managed while maintaining high image quality across all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts optical parameters including illumination wavelength, aperture size, and focus distance to optimize image quality for different regions of the eye. These parameter changes are controlled through software to maintain simplicity while achieving artifact-free images.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system accommodates both dilated and undilated pupils, then versatility is improved, but alignment and focus difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system incorporates dynamic focus adjustment and alignment correction mechanisms that automatically adapt to the patient's pupil size and eye position. The system can switch between fixed focus and variable focus modes, and includes real-time alignment compensation to maintain image quality regardless of pupil condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the captured images to automatically adjust alignment and focus parameters. Image processing algorithms analyze the quality metrics and provide feedback to the optical system for real-time correction, making the system adaptable to different pupil conditions without increasing operational difficulty.
4Reliability
If stereo imaging is implemented, then depth perception is improved, but device complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines two imaging paths (stereo pair) into a single integrated optical platform using beam splitters and dichroic mirrors. This merging approach provides stereo depth perception while maintaining a unified control interface and processing pipeline, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate imaging devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A slit lamp mounted eye imaging, a slit lamp integrated, a handheld, OCT integrated, or attached to a separate chinrest-joystick assembly apparatus and method for producing a wide field and/or magnified views of the posterior or the anterior segments of an eye through an undilated or dilated pupil is disclosed. The apparatus images sections and focal planes and utilizes an illumination system that uses one or more LEDs, shifting optical elements, flipping masks, and/or aperture stops where the light can be delivered into the optical system on optical axis or off axis from center of optical system and return imaging path from the eye, creating artifacts in different locations on the eye image. Image processing is employed to detect and eliminate artifacts and masks from images. The apparatus can be used in combination with an OCT, microscope and can be disposed in a hand-held housing for hand-held use.