Fundus Camera Integrated Optical Unit for Retinal Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fundus inspection apparatuses face challenges with high costs due to the need for sensitive light sensors and additional beam splitter devices, which increase complexity and reduce image quality.
Innovation Solution
An integrated optical unit combines photosensitive elements and LED devices to measure light exposure and project targets, using a single beam splitter to minimize interference and include a thermal calibration unit for temperature compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high sensitivity light sensors are used to detect low light levels from the retina, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
A beam splitter is introduced as an intermediary optical element that divides the reflected light from the retina into two paths: one to the light sensor and another to the acquisition means. This allows the use of less sensitive (lower cost) sensors while still achieving adequate measurement precision by capturing a portion of the already-reflected light.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical path is segmented into multiple channels using the beam splitter, separating the detection function from the imaging function. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling the use of cost-effective sensors that don't need to handle the full light load alone.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional beam splitter devices are added to project light targets onto the retina, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing beam splitter in the optical path is made multi-functional by configuring it to serve both light detection and light target projection purposes. By positioning light sources appropriately, the same beam splitter that divides detection light also directs projection light onto the retina, eliminating the need for separate beam splitting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of light detection and light target projection are merged into a single optical pathway using one beam splitter device. This combination reduces the total number of optical components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining both functionalities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional beam splitter devices are added to project light targets, then adaptability is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to optical interference
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the beam splitter are optimized for different functions: one region handles detection light paths while another region handles projection light paths. This spatial separation of functions within the beam splitter minimizes optical interference between the two pathways, preserving image quality while enabling target projection.
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 reduces costs, improves image quality, and maintains consistent light exposure regardless of retina reflectivity, while simplifying the apparatus design and manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
The beam splitter device is positioned along the optical path between the retina and the acquisition means and diverts a portion of light coming from the retina to a light sensor
Implementation Method 2
The detection signals generated by the light sensor are used to regulate the operation of the fundus camera lighting device
Implementation Method 3
lighting means, configured to project a light beam to illuminate the retina of the patient
Implementation Method 4
an optical path is provided, which comprises one or more lenses configured to optically conjugate the retina with said receiving surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus for inspecting the fundus of the eye, comprising: —lighting means configured to project a light beam for illuminating the retina of one eye; and —an optical path comprising one or more lenses configured to optically conjugate the retina with a receiving surface of acquisition means configured to acquire one or more images of the retina; and —a beam splitter device configured to divert a part of the light, which is reflected by the retina and directed towards said acquisition means, towards first photosensitive elements; and —a control unit operatively associated with said first photosensitive elements, said acquisition means and said lighting means, said control unit deactivating said lighting means when the light energy received from said first photosensitive elements overcomes a predefined threshold value; and —first LED devices configured to project light targets onto the retina, which the patient must stare to keep the eye still during the examination. The mentioned first photosensitive elements and first LED devices are arranged together in a single integrated optical unit configured to receive light from the retina and to project light onto the retina through said beam splitter device.