Interchangeable Loupe Alignment Ring for Diplopia-Free Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loupe devices often suffer from optical axis deviations that cause adverse consequences during precision medical or surgical procedures, leading to diplopia and vertical imbalance, which are not effectively addressed by current solutions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an interchangeable loupe device with a rotatable telescope assembly and magnetic attraction, combined with an indexing feature that aligns optical axis deviations along a horizontal axis, ensuring proper orientation and minimizing vertical imbalance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable telescope assemblies are used to provide multiple magnification levels, then adaptability is improved, but rotational misalignment causing diplopia and vertical imbalance occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The telescope assembly is divided into separable components (telescope body, indexing ring, magnetic elements) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The indexing ring with its geometric features is segmented from the telescope body, allowing for precise rotational positioning features to be added without redesigning the entire telescope assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
An indexing ring is introduced as an intermediary component between the telescope assembly and the anchor assembly. This indexing ring carries geometric features (protrusions, notches, or patterns) that interface with corresponding features on the anchor assembly, serving as a mediator to ensure precise rotational alignment and eliminate diplopia while maintaining the interchangeability of different telescope assemblies.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic attraction is used to hold telescope assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but rotational freedom is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic retention function and the rotational alignment function are merged into a single integrated system. Magnetic elements provide both the holding force to secure the telescope assembly and the rotational positioning through geometric features on the indexing ring. This combination eliminates the need for separate mechanical fasteners and alignment mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
3Manufacturing precision
If optical axis deviation is present, then manufacturing tolerance is improved, but visual precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of rotational orientation to compensate for optical axis deviation. By allowing the indexing ring to rotate to specific angular positions (defined by geometric features), the system can adjust the orientation of the telescope assembly relative to the anchor assembly. This parameter change enables the optical axis deviation to be oriented along the horizontal axis rather than the vertical axis, maintaining manufacturing tolerance while preserving visual precision.
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 solution provides a reliable and practical means to quickly change magnification levels while preventing diplopia and vertical imbalance, enhancing the precision and efficiency of medical and surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the interchangeable telescope assembly is held to the anchor assembly by magnetic attraction between the magnetic element and the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
Rotational alignment apparatus and methods for interchangeable loupe telescope(s) are provided. Some embodiments include an indexing ring including a projection. The ring is fixed to the telescope upon rotational alignment of the telescope. The alignment may involve use of a laser and test fixture. The projection mates with a corresponding indexing notch of a loupe anchoring device. Loupes may comprise one or more anchor assemblies, and one or more interchangeable telescope assemblies. The interchangeable telescope assemblies are held to the anchor assemblies by magnetic attraction between one or more magnets and/or one or more magnetic components affixed to corresponding surfaces of the corresponding assemblies. Mating of the projection with the notch ensures appropriate relative rotational alignment of the assemblies.