Folded-Path Slit Projector for Compact Ophthalmic Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slit projectors for ophthalmological therapy systems face limitations in providing a compact design with sufficient freedom of action, leading to restricted space for patients and operators, and require complex manipulations for adjusting slit width and brightness.
Innovation Solution
A slit projector with a compact structure using mirrors to bend the beam path, a slit shaping unit with adjustable slit width, and a switching unit with a single operating element for simplified operation, integrated with a surgical microscope for improved flexibility and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a conventional slit projector design is used, then the slit can be imaged onto the eye, but the device occupies substantial space and restricts freedom of action for patient and operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by folding the optical beam path using mirrors arranged at specific angles. Instead of a linear arrangement of optical components, the beam path is bent into a compact three-dimensional configuration, allowing the slit projector to achieve a small footprint while maintaining the necessary optical path length for proper slit imaging onto the eye
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by integrating the slit projector components into a compact housing where the optical path is folded back on itself. The mirrors are arranged to create a nested configuration where the beam path enters and exits the component assembly in a space-efficient manner, allowing the device to be positioned close to the surgical field without obstructing operator movement
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate controls are used for slit width and brightness adjustment, then precise control is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and requires multiple manipulations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated control mechanism. A single actuator or control element is designed to simultaneously adjust both the slit width (by moving the slit aperture) and the brightness (by adjusting the condenser lens position or light intensity), allowing the operator to make coordinated adjustments with one manipulation rather than requiring separate controls for each parameter
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism is designed with multi-functionality, where a single operating element can perform multiple adjustment tasks. The universal control allows the operator to adjust slit width, brightness, and potentially other parameters through a unified interface, simplifying the user experience while maintaining precise control over all illumination parameters
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 compact design enhances operational freedom, allows for easy adjustment of slit width and brightness, and simplifies handling, improving the efficiency of ophthalmological therapies by reducing the need for complex manipulations.
Implementation Method 1
The slit projector according to the invention furthermore comprises a mirror, the mirror being arranged in the beam path between the slit shaping unit and the imaging optical unit
Data Source
AI summary
A slit projector for generating slit illumination in an eye, including a light source, a slit forming unit and an imaging optical unit along a beam path. The invention facilitates improved freedom to operate in the treatment field. The slit projector includes a mirror arranged between the slit forming unit and the imaging optical unit. A corresponding positioning apparatus facilitates aligning the slit illumination in the eye for a therapy system with a surgical microscope and a slit projector. The positioning apparatus includes a holding element and a fastening element, which can be connected to the surgical microscope and the slit projector, respectively, and a pivoting element including a first connection, by use of which the pivoting element and the holding element are movably connected, and a second connection, by use of which the pivoting element and the fastening element are movably connected.