Fundus Imaging Device Using Segmented Monochromatic Light Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fundus image capture devices face challenges in obtaining clear images due to weak reflection or scattering of light, often requiring enhanced light sources that shrink the pupil and cause discomfort with mydriatic agents, and struggle with vibrations leading to blurred images.
Innovation Solution
An image capture device for fundus using a lighting module emitting multiple beams of monochromatic light, a splitter to reflect these beams onto the fundus, a monochrome image sensor to capture images, and an image synthesis module to combine them into a color image, along with optional features like a mask module for external light isolation, positioning for stable imaging, and vibration compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a single light source is used to project light onto the fundus, then the imaging process becomes easier and the light source intensity can be enhanced, but the enhanced light source shrinks the pupil and reduces the inspecting area of the fundus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single light source into multiple light sources emitting different wavelengths (e.g., blue, green, red light sources). Each wavelength is projected separately onto the fundus, allowing the use of multiple light sources without causing pupil constriction from a single intense source. The imaging module captures multiple images corresponding to different wavelengths, which are then synthesized into a comprehensive fundus image with both detailed texture and broad field of view.
2Illumination intensity
If mydriatic agents are applied to enhance light source intensity, then the imaging quality improves, but the examinee experiences discomfort and trouble
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single intense light source that would require mydriatic agents, the patent segments the illumination into multiple light sources with different wavelengths. This distributed approach provides sufficient total illumination for high-quality imaging without the need for pupil dilation, thereby avoiding discomfort to the examinee.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple light sources with different wavelengths are used, then the field of view and image quality improve, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources emitting different wavelengths into a single integrated illumination system. The imaging module is designed to receive and process multiple wavelengths simultaneously or sequentially. The image synthesis module integrates the multiple captured images into a single comprehensive fundus image, effectively merging the functions of multiple components into a unified system that achieves broad field of view without proportionally increasing device size.
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 broader field of view without pupil constriction, improved image quality with monochrome sensors, and reduced device size, while minimizing discomfort and image blurriness through precise light management and stabilization.
Implementation Method 1
The splitter is disposed on a light path of the lighting module to respectively reflect the plurality beams of the monochromatic light to a fundus of an examinee
Implementation Method 2
Now, the light source is reflected or scattered by the fundus of the examinee to form an image on an image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
This invention discloses an image capture device for fundus and an imaging method thereof. The image capture device includes a lighting module, a splitter, a monochrome image sensor and an image synthesis module. The lighting module emits plurality beams of monochromatic light. The splitter is disposed on a light path of the lighting module. The splitter reflects the plurality beams of the monochromatic light to a fundus of an examinee and forms a plurality of reflecting light respectively through reflection of the fundus. The monochrome image sensor receives the plurality beams of the reflecting light and produces a monochromatic image corresponding to each beam of the monochromatic light. The image synthesis module receives each of the monochromatic images and synthesizes each monochromatic image into a color image. By such arrangements, the invention provides good quality fundus imaging and reduces costs.