Multi-Axis Fundus Imaging System for Automated Retinal Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual review of retinal images for diabetic retinopathy diagnosis is labor-intensive and prone to errors, requiring efficient and accurate imaging solutions.
Innovation Solution
A fundus imaging system with a camera and image processor that captures high-quality images of the eye using a variable focus lens and optical lens module, capable of movement along multiple axes for precise alignment and automatic image capture, eliminating the need for mydriatic drugs and allowing for simultaneous imaging of both eyes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual review of retinal images is used for diabetic retinopathy diagnosis, then diagnostic accuracy can be maintained by trained medical professionals, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated image capture and processing. The multi-axis positioning system automatically aligns and captures retinal images without requiring manual intervention for each adjustment, and the integrated processor automatically analyzes the captured images for diabetic retinopathy detection, reducing reliance on manual review while maintaining diagnostic accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical review processes with automated electronic systems. The image capture system uses motorized multi-axis positioning instead of manual camera adjustment, and the diagnostic process substitutes manual image review with automated digital image processing and analysis algorithms
2Illumination intensity
If traditional fundus imaging requiring pupil dilation is used, then adequate illumination and image quality can be achieved, but the process requires mydriatic drugs which increase procedure complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the illumination parameters by using optimized LED light sources with specific wavelengths and intensities that can penetrate the pupil without requiring dilation. The multi-axis positioning system also adjusts the optical parameters to maximize light delivery to the retina and image capture efficiency, achieving adequate illumination through parameter optimization rather than physical pupil dilation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the requirement for mydriatic drugs from the imaging procedure. By using a specialized illumination system and multi-axis positioning approach, the system achieves adequate retinal imaging without the need for pupil-dilating medications, removing this complex step from the overall procedure
3Measurement precision
If high-quality fundus images are captured using traditional methods, then diagnostic precision is improved, but the process requires sequential imaging of each eye which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from sequential one-dimensional imaging to simultaneous multi-dimensional imaging. The multi-axis positioning system enables the camera to capture images of both eyes at different angular orientations simultaneously by positioning the camera in three-dimensional space, allowing parallel image acquisition while maintaining high diagnostic quality through precise positioning control
Data Source
AI summary
An example device is configured to capture an image of an eye. The device includes a camera configured to capture the image of the eye. The device also includes: a first base configured to be moved along a first axis to position the camera to capture the image of the eye; a second base configured to be moved along a second axis to position the camera to capture the image of the eye; and a third base configured to be moved along a third axis to position the camera to capture the image of the eye.