Multi-Depth Eye Imaging With Adjustable Optical Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ophthalmic imaging devices lack flexibility and precision in adjusting focal depth and alignment relative to the eye, leading to suboptimal imaging quality and efficiency during examinations.

Innovation Solution

A medical device with a movable base, rotatable illumination and observation system support arms, and adjustable optical assemblies, along with a controller to adjust focal depth and alignment, enabling precise imaging of the eye.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional slit lamp with fixed optical path is used, then the device structure is simple, but the imaging precision and flexibility are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging precisionVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustability in the optical path by allowing the illumination system and observation system to be independently positioned and angled. The illumination system can be adjusted to different angles relative to the observation system, enabling dynamic adaptation to various examination requirements while maintaining precise imaging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into functionally independent modules: an illumination system with its own support and positioning mechanism, and an observation system with separate cameras and optical path. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently for its specific function while reducing overall system complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If multiple cameras with complex alignment mechanisms are added, then the imaging quality improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging qualityVSAvoidalignment operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates automated alignment capabilities where the controller coordinates the positioning of multiple cameras and the illumination system based on pre-programmed parameters. The device performs self-alignment through automated adjustment mechanisms, reducing the need for manual intervention and making the complex multi-camera system easier to operate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust the alignment of multiple cameras and the illumination system. The controller receives information from the observation system and automatically adjusts positioning to maintain optimal alignment, ensuring high imaging quality while simplifying operation through automated closed-loop control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If the illumination system and observation system are fixed in position, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different examination conditions decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexamination flexibilityVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Both the illumination system and observation system are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities. The illumination system can be adjusted to different angles and positions independently of the observation system, allowing the device to adapt to various examination conditions such as different focal depths and viewing angles while maintaining a relatively simple base configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device achieves multi-functionality through independent adjustable illumination and observation systems that can be configured for various examination types. The same basic system can perform multiple functions by adjusting the relative positions and angles of the illumination source and cameras, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enhances imaging precision and flexibility by allowing for multiple focal depths and alignments, improving the quality of eye examinations.

Implementation Method 1

a first camera configured to receive imaging rays produced by reflection of light from the eye of the patient

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12440102B2Systems and methods for analyzing the eye
Publication Date: 2025.10.14 LIGHTFIELD MEDICAL INC
  • US12440102B2 patent drawing
  • US12440102B2 patent drawing
  • US12440102B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Medical devices and methods of use are disclosed to exam an eye of a patient. A medical device may include a digital projector as part of an illumination system. A medical device may include one or more cameras as part of an observation system to capture reflected light from the eye. The observation system may include one or more adjustable optical systems. The digital projector may produce a slit of light to be projected onto the eye. The slit of light and the observation system may be focused at a plurality of focal depths within the eye.