Eye Exam Microscope Control via Power Line Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current eye examination devices, such as slit lamp microscopes, have ergonomically poorly designed controls, making it difficult for examiners to adjust settings without looking away from the eye, increasing the risk of accidental actuation and requiring extensive training for untrained users.
Innovation Solution
The device uses a communication module connected to the power supply line for data transmission, allowing control data to be sent to modules ergonomically positioned away from the examination area, reducing the need for manual actuation and minimizing the risk of accidental object activation, while using existing power lines for data transmission to maintain simplicity and reduce the risk of cable errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If operating elements are placed in the area of the function to be controlled, then the device structure is simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the examiner must look away from the eye to adjust settings
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a control unit with operating elements and a treatment unit with the function to be controlled. These are separated spatially, allowing the examiner to adjust settings at the control unit while observing the eye through the treatment unit, eliminating the need to look away from the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication device acts as an intermediary between the control unit and the treatment unit, transmitting control signals and data over the supply line. This allows the operating elements to be positioned away from the treatment area while maintaining functional connection through the intermediary communication system.
2Device complexity
If operating elements are scattered over the entire device, then the device structure is simple, but the training time for untrained users increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the device into a centralized control unit and distributed treatment units, all operating elements are consolidated in one location. This creates a consistent operational interface that reduces training time, as users learn the control layout once rather than locating scattered controls throughout the device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If operating elements move relative to one another when adjusted, then the device functionality is flexible, but the ease of operation deteriorates because it becomes difficult to find operating elements blindly
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed as a stable, stationary structure with operating elements that maintain fixed relative positions. This segmented design separates the control interface from the treatment mechanisms, allowing the controls to remain in a consistent, findable location while the treatment units can still be adjusted for different examination scenarios.
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional lines are provided for data transmission, then the communication capability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The supply line serves dual functions: it provides electrical power to the treatment unit and simultaneously transmits communication data between the control unit and treatment unit. This multi-functional use of the existing supply line eliminates the need for separate data transmission lines, reducing device complexity and manufacturing costs while maintaining full communication capability.
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 solution simplifies the device's structure, reduces training time for users, minimizes the risk of accidental actuation, and allows for easy retrofitting of conventional devices by using existing power lines for data transmission, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The data can preferably be transmitted via the supply line in the form of an electrical signal with a frequency greater than 100 Hz
Data Source
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AI summary
The microscope (100) has control modules (112, 113.1) connected with a supply line for supplying electrical energy. The modules are connected with a communication device (110) for transmitting and receiving data e.g. control data and measuring data, over the supply line, where the communication device is attached at the supply line. The communication device comprises a coupler that couples data in the supply line and uncouples data from the supply line by RS232interface. A transformer (104) and lighting devices (111.1 - 111.4) with an LED are provided in the modules.