Iris Treatment via Spatially Varying Energy Density
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying electromagnetic radiation to the human iris for ophthalmic procedures cannot guarantee 100% protection against accidental exposure to the fundus, due to limitations in pupillary occlusion and eye tracking technologies.
Innovation Solution
The use of an electromagnetic radiation pathway with a Gaussian profile, where the energy density at the anterior iris is greater than at the posterior portion of the eye, combined with a computerized scanning system and optional eye movement restriction methods, to ensure effective treatment without fundus exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pupillary occlusion or eye tracking methods are used to protect the fundus, then the risk of accidental exposure is reduced, but the protection cannot guarantee 100% success due to limitations in these methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different energy densities to different regions of the electromagnetic radiation pathway. The beam profile is designed with higher energy density at the anterior iris region and lower energy density at the posterior fundus region, creating local quality differentiation that protects the fundus while treating the iris
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of control by shaping the electromagnetic radiation pathway in three-dimensional space. Instead of simply blocking or tracking, the system creates a spatially varying energy distribution that inherently protects the fundus through the beam's geometric profile
2Reliability
If contact lens occlusion is used to block the electromagnetic radiation pathway, then the fundus is protected, but the contact lens can move during surgery leaving the pupil unprotected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact lens occlusion system with an electromagnetic radiation pathway control system. Instead of relying on physical barriers that can move or dislodge, the system uses precise control of the radiation beam's spatial profile to achieve protection without mechanical components in the eye
3Manufacturing precision
If active eye tracking is used to shift the treatment pattern, then the treatment stays aligned with the iris, but the response time may not be fast enough to prevent accidental exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electromagnetic radiation pathway profile in advance to inherently protect the fundus region. Rather than reacting to eye movements after potential exposure occurs, the beam is pre-configured with lower energy density in the fundus direction, providing proactive protection before any misalignment can cause harm
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 approach allows for effective application of electromagnetic radiation to the anterior iris while minimizing the risk of accidental exposure to the fundus, thereby preventing permanent vision impairment or loss.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic radiation pathway with a profile such that the energy density at the iris is greater than the energy density at the posterior portion of the eye
Data Source
AI summary
Rather than rely solely upon pupillary occlusion or tracking of eye movement to protect the fundus from accidental exposure to electromagnetic radiation, the present invention also utilizes an electromagnetic radiation pathway with a profile such that the energy density at the iris is greater than the energy density at the posterior portion of the eye. This disparity in energy density allows for efficacy at the anterior iris treatment site, without injury to the fundus.