Surgical Laser Capacitive Alignment Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic surgical laser interface systems face challenges in accurately aligning the laser with the eye due to cumulative tolerance errors from multiple parts, which can affect the precision of the alignment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize sensing elements on both the surgical laser and interface lens to determine and correct the alignment, using ohmic or capacitive contacts to sense electrical changes and adjust the laser position for precise alignment with the eye.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple parts are used in the patient interface assembly, then the device can be constructed with modular components, but cumulative tolerance errors significantly degrade alignment accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the alignment reference function into the laser output surface itself by placing sensing elements directly on it. This eliminates the need for separate alignment reference features on multiple components, thereby reducing cumulative tolerance errors while maintaining modular device construction. The laser head integrates the sensing capability that previously would have required precise mechanical alignment between separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using sensing elements on the laser output surface to detect alignment status in real-time. The system provides visual feedback through indicators that show when the laser is properly aligned with the eye, allowing dynamic adjustment rather than relying solely on precise mechanical tolerances. This feedback mechanism compensates for the inherent tolerance accumulation in multi-part assemblies.
2Manufacturing precision
If high precision machining is applied to maintain tight physical dimension tolerances, then alignment accuracy improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment system (relying on precisely machined physical dimensions and tolerances) with an optical/electrical sensing system. Instead of ensuring precise mechanical fit between multiple components, the system uses sensing elements and visual feedback to guide alignment. This substitution dramatically reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining or improving alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser head performs its own alignment verification through the integrated sensing elements on its output surface. The system self-diagnoses alignment status and provides feedback without requiring external alignment tools or complex mechanical reference features. This self-service capability simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for high-precision reference surfaces that would otherwise be required.
3Measurement precision
If sensing elements are integrated on the laser output surface, then alignment detection precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensing function directly with the laser output surface structure. The sensing elements are integrated into the existing laser head assembly rather than being separate external components. This merging approach minimizes the increase in device complexity while achieving high alignment detection precision, as the sensing system becomes an inherent part of the laser delivery mechanism.
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
The system effectively minimizes alignment errors between the surgical laser and the eye, ensuring accurate positioning and reducing the need for precise machining of multiple parts, thereby improving the precision and reliability of ophthalmic surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
using ohmic or capacitive contacts to sense electrical changes
Implementation Method 2
using ohmic or capacitive contacts to sense electrical changes
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~8
AI summary
A surgical system for an eye, the system comprising: a laser having an output surface, the output surface comprising a first sensing element; and a patient interface having a first end and a second end, the first end of the patient interface configured to couple to the laser, the second end configured to couple to the eye, the patient interface comprising: an interface lens having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the interface lens configured to contact the eye; and a second sensing element coupled to the second surface of the interface lens, the laser operable to couple the output surface with the second surface of the interface lens; the system further comprising a detector coupled to the plurality of capacitive electrodes, the detector configured to: determine when at least one of the plurality of capacitive electrodes couples to the second surface of the interface lens; and determine a capacitance change between the plurality of capacitive electrodes, the capacitance change indicating a relative position of the output surface of the laser with the second surface of the interface lens, wherein the first sensing element comprises a plurality of capacitive electrodes, wherein the second sensing element comprises a dielectric.