Laser Shot File Generation for Refractive Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current algorithms for generating laser shot files using finite pulse sizes result in approximations that often lead to unintended shape aberrations and require additional tissue ablation, as they do not accurately account for the pulse characteristics of individual laser shots, especially in customized treatments.
Innovation Solution
An iterative method and algorithm that considers the actual pulse characteristics of each laser shot by applying test shots on a reference material, allowing for the creation of a laser shot file that closely approximates the theoretical ablation profile, even with large pulse sizes, and compensates for biodynamic effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If classical ablation algorithms use fixed pulse sizes and theoretical total removed volume per pulse, then the laser shot file generation is simple and fast, but the manufacturing precision of the ablation profile deteriorates due to unintended induced shape aberrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing test shots on reference material before the actual treatment to measure actual pulse characteristics. These measured characteristics are then used to pre-calculate compensation factors that are incorporated into the laser shot file generation, allowing the system to account for real laser behavior rather than relying on theoretical models alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by transitioning from fixed theoretical pulse size assumptions to dynamically adjusted pulse characteristics based on measured test shot data. The system modifies the laser shot file to incorporate actual pulse diameter, depth, and energy distribution measurements, thereby adapting the ablation algorithm to real-world laser performance variations.
2Productivity
If larger pulse sizes are used to reduce treatment time, then productivity increases, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to greater deviation from theoretical ablation profile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the actual characteristics of test shots and using this information to adjust and optimize the laser shot file. The system continuously refines the ablation profile by comparing theoretical predictions with actual measured outcomes, incorporating compensation factors that account for pulse overlap effects and biodynamic responses, thereby maintaining precision even with larger pulse sizes.
3Manufacturing precision
If iterative optimization with test shots is performed to achieve accurate ablation profile, then manufacturing precision improves, but loss of time increases due to additional measurement and calculation steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing test shots and measurements before the actual treatment procedure. By conducting these characterization tests in advance and pre-calculating compensation factors, the system transfers the time investment to the preparation phase, allowing the actual treatment to proceed more efficiently with pre-optimized parameters.
4Device complexity
If conventional algorithms ignore individual pulse characteristics and use only theoretical total removed volume, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inability to compensate for biodynamic effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes parameters by transitioning from a single theoretical volume parameter to multiple measured pulse characteristics including pulse diameter, depth, energy distribution, and overlap effects. These additional parameters are integrated into the ablation algorithm to compensate for biodynamic effects and improve the accuracy of the ablation profile prediction.
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 enables a high level of accuracy in achieving the desired ablation profile, reducing operating time and minimizing residual structures, while allowing the use of existing laser apparatuses with larger pulse sizes, effectively correcting high-order aberrations.
Implementation Method 1
The laser shot file may be used for ablating the surface of a cornea in a corneal re-shaping procedure
Implementation Method 2
an algorithm is used... for calculating the result of the overlapping pulses... a dithering algorithm is used
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus, an algorithm and a method for providing a laser shot file for use in a laser. The laser may be an excimer laser. The shot file may be applied for performing a refractive laser treatment of an eye or for producing a customized contact lens or an intraocular lens. According to the invention information with respect to a desired ablation profile is provided and a first series of laser shot positions is calculated based on the desired ablation profile. A simulated ablation profile is generated using said first series of laser shot positions and using information about pulse characteristics of a single laser shot. The simulated ablation profile is compared with the desired ablation profile and residual structures are determined.