Reusable Model Eye Unit for Ophthalmic Laser Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ophthalmic training models are limited in their ability to simulate multiple laser procedures and examination techniques, often requiring separate devices for different procedures and resulting in high training costs due to the need for disposable units.
Innovation Solution
A modular, reusable model eye unit that can be adapted for various ophthalmic procedures, including selective laser trabeculoplasty, laser peripheral iridotomy, posterior capsulotomy, vitreolysis, and retinal photocoagulation, using interchangeable parts and adjustable components to simulate different anatomical sizes and pathologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate disposable model eyes are used for different laser procedures, then each procedure can be practiced with appropriate anatomical simulation, but training costs increase and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The model eye unit is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple laser procedures including SLT, LPI, YAG capsulotomy, vitreolysis, and retinal photocoagulation. The single unit integrates various anatomical structures and pathological conditions that can be targeted by different laser procedures, eliminating the need for multiple separate disposable models.
Solution Approach 2:
The model eye unit is divided into replaceable components including iris discs with different pathologies, intraocular lenses, capsules, and retinal targets. These segmented elements can be individually replaced or reconfigured to simulate different procedures and anatomical variations, allowing the same base unit to serve multiple training purposes.
2Reliability
If disposable model eyes are used for each procedure, then contamination and damage from laser procedures are avoided, but training costs increase due to continuous purchase of new units
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of discarding the entire model eye unit after each procedure, only the affected components such as iris discs, capsules, or retinal targets are replaced. The main body of the model eye, including the scleral shell and fluid filling system, is recovered and reused for subsequent training sessions, significantly reducing material consumption and training costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser-sensitive components (iris pigments, capsule membranes, retinal targets) are extracted as separate replaceable elements from the durable model eye body. This allows the consumable parts to be removed and replaced while the expensive reusable platform remains intact, separating the disposable and reusable portions of the training system.
3Device complexity
If a single model eye unit is designed to accommodate multiple procedures, then training cost decreases and device complexity reduces, but the ability to accurately simulate specific anatomical features and pathologies for each procedure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The model eye unit incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements such as height-adjustable middle sections, replaceable iris discs with varying pigmentation densities, and interchangeable intraocular lenses. These dynamic features allow the same physical platform to accurately represent different anatomical conditions and pathological states required for various laser procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the model eye unit are designed with specific local properties to simulate various anatomical structures and pathologies. The iris discs contain localized pigmented regions for SLT training, the capsule has specific membrane properties for YAG capsulotomy, and the retina contains targeted vascular patterns for photocoagulation, ensuring each procedure has appropriate local anatomical fidelity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for a model eye unit. In one example, the model eye unit includes a lens assembly removably attached to an anterior scleral casing and a middle section removably coupled to the anterior scleral casing. In the model eye unit, the middle section is removably and height adjustably coupled to a posterior scleral section and the lens assembly includes a cornea lens.