Fundus Imaging Using Infinity-Corrected Optics and Machine Learning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fundus cameras, especially those using smartphones, face challenges in observing and photographing the fundus due to the need for close proximity, pupil contraction from dazzle, and difficulty in accurate alignment, which poses risks and complexity, especially in developing countries.
Innovation Solution
A fundus information acquisition method utilizing an infinity-corrected optical system that allows for simple and easy observation and photography without precise alignment, using an imaging unit opposite an objective lens that forms a fundus image within the pupil's range, and employing machine learning for image composition and focus correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile fundus camera is used to photograph the fundus, then the device portability and accessibility are improved, but the pupil contracts greatly due to dazzle from close proximity illumination, making observation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical system (beam splitter, relay lenses) between the illumination source and the fundus to indirect the light path. This allows the illumination light to reach the fundus without directly dazzling the patient's pupil, while still enabling clear fundus imaging through the optical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial arrangement from direct close-proximity illumination to a multi-dimensional optical path using beam splitters and relay lenses. The illumination and imaging paths are separated in different spatial dimensions, allowing the device to be positioned at a comfortable distance from the patient while maintaining effective fundus illumination and imaging capability.
2Measurement precision
If precise alignment is required for fundus photography, then the imaging accuracy is improved, but the operation complexity and risk increase, especially in developing countries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-alignment mechanisms where the optical system automatically adjusts and aligns itself with the fundus. The beam splitter and relay lens system are designed to inherently guide the light path to the fundus center, eliminating the need for manual precise alignment by the operator. The system self-corrects for minor positioning variations, making it foolproof for use by non-specialists in resource-limited settings.
3Length of moving object
If the imaging unit is placed close to the test eye, then the fundus can be photographed, but the pupil contracts due to dazzle, making observation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a beam splitter to separate the illumination and imaging paths into different spatial dimensions. The illumination source can be positioned at a distance from the patient, and the light is directed to the fundus through the beam splitter, while the imaging unit captures the reflected light along a different optical path. This dimensional separation eliminates the need for close proximity illumination that causes pupil contraction.
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 observation and photography at a safe distance with reduced risk, achieving accurate and comprehensive fundus imaging without the need for precise alignment, facilitating early detection of retinal diseases.
Implementation Method 1
an eyeball includes a comea and a crystalline lens, which are convex lenses with high refractive indices. Therefore, light from the fundus is strongly refracted by the cornea and the crystalline lens and images are formed at a very close distance from the eyeball
Implementation Method 2
acquiring an image of the test eye including the fundus image reflected in the range of the pupil of the test eye in the imaging unit
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a fundus information acquisition method that allows observation and photography to be conducted using an optical system of a simple and easy configuration without the need for accurate alignment of the imaging unit with a test eye even when there is a distance from the test eye. A fundus information acquisition method is provided with an infinity-corrected optical system that uses an imaging unit placed opposite an objective lens that causes light passing through the objective lens to form an image as part of a fundus image of a test eye, where at least a site defined by a range of a pupil of the test eye out of a cornea and a crystalline lens of the same test eye is used as the objective lens opposed to a fundus of the test eye.