Interferometer Ophthalmic Alignment Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic alignment apparatuses lack the precision required for consistent and accurate alignment of instruments with a subject's eye, limiting the degree of accuracy in diagnostic and surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmic instrument incorporating an interferometer with a test arm and a reference arm, where the reference arm includes a mirror positioned to achieve a predetermined length, allowing for adjustment of the test arm length to achieve interference between light reflected from the eye and the mirror, thereby aligning the ophthalmic apparatus with the eye.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional alignment apparatus using laser beams and camera observation are used, then the alignment process can be performed, but the degree of accuracy with which the instrument can be consistently aligned is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical/optical alignment system (lasers and cameras) with an interferometric system that uses light interference patterns to achieve precise alignment. The interferometer measures axial position by detecting interference between reference and test light paths, providing sub-micron resolution that exceeds the capabilities of conventional laser-camera systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an interferometer as an intermediary measurement device between the instrument and the eye. The interferometer uses a reference mirror and test light path to create interference patterns that indirectly measure the axial position and alignment, providing more precise feedback than direct optical observation methods.
2Measurement precision
If the test arm length is adjusted to achieve interference, then precise axial alignment is achieved, but the complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the interferometer to serve multiple functions: it provides both the alignment measurement capability and the axial positioning feedback mechanism. The same interferometric system that measures alignment also guides the adjustment of the test arm length, reducing the need for separate alignment and positioning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The interferometer system is designed to automatically provide alignment feedback by monitoring interference patterns. The system self-adjusts by using the interference signal to guide the movement of the test arm, reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms and manual adjustment procedures.
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 enables precise axial alignment of ophthalmic instruments, such as ablation lasers and diagnostic devices, by generating interference patterns that indicate optimal alignment, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of ophthalmic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
interference between the light reflected from the surfaces of the eye and the light reflected from the mirror is achieved, thereby aligning the ophthalmic apparatus with the eye
Data Source
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AI summary
An ophthalmic instrument for use with a subject's eye, comprising an interferometer having a test arm in which the subject's eye is to be positioned and a reference arm, the reference arm including a mirror adapted to be positioned such that the reference arm has a predetermined length, and an ophthalmic apparatus coupled to the interferometer such that, by altering a test arm length, a length between the ophthalmic apparatus and the eye is also altered. The mirror is positioned to achieve the predetermined length and a length of the test arm is adjusted such that interference between the light reflected from the eye and the light reflected from the mirror is achieved, the ophthalmic apparatus is optically aligned with the eye.