Multi-Function Light Guide for Corneal and Scleral Topography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corneal and scleral topography systems face challenges such as high cost, complex registration methods, inaccurate central corneal region mapping, and inefficiency in capturing both corneal and scleral features, leading to a need for improved ophthalmological imaging devices and methods.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmological imaging system incorporating a multi-function light guide with a reference object, directing and reflecting optical systems, and interchangeable lens systems for precise corneal and scleral mapping, enabling simultaneous illumination and imaging of the eye surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Scheimpflug method is used for scleral mapping, then scleral imaging is achieved, but the high intensity light causes the sclera to become blurred and the system becomes expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide body serves multiple functions: it guides illumination light to the eye, projects the reference object onto the eye surface, and allows imaging of the projected reference object. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate scleral mapping systems, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining imaging capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate systems are used for corneal topography and scleral mapping, then comprehensive eye surface mapping is achieved, but the registration becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines corneal topography and scleral mapping into a single integrated system. The same light guide body and imaging system are used for both functions, with the reference object projection serving as a common reference for both corneal and scleral imaging, thereby simplifying registration and eliminating the need for complex multi-system coordination
3Area of stationary object
If projection type topographic systems are used, then corneal mapping is achieved, but accuracy at the central corneal region is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs different optical approaches for different regions of the eye. For the central cornea, it uses direct illumination and imaging through the light guide body. For the peripheral cornea and sclera, it uses the reference object projection method. This localized approach ensures high accuracy in the central region while maintaining comprehensive coverage
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 system provides accurate, cost-effective corneal and scleral topography with improved diagnostic capabilities, reducing the need for fluorescein and enhancing contact lens fitting precision.
Implementation Method 1
a topography illumination source illuminating the light guide body and the reference object wherein the illuminated light guide body directs light for illumination of said eye
Implementation Method 2
a directing optical system housed in a proximal end of the light guide body directing light from the light guide body across said corneal profile
Implementation Method 3
a reflecting optical system housed in the proximal end of the light guide body reflecting light from the directing optical system that has traversed the corneal profile through the light guide body
Implementation Method 4
an imaging system imaging the reference object projected onto said eye surface through a central channel in the light guide body
Data Source
AI summary
A light guide for an ophthalmological topographer is disclosed. The light guide comprising a light guide body comprising a reference object; a topography illumination source illuminating the light guide body and the reference object wherein the illuminated light guide body directs light for illumination of said eye; a directing optical system housed in a proximal end of the light guide body directing light from the light guide body across said corneal profile; and a reflecting optical system housed in the proximal end of the light guide body reflecting light from the directing optical system that has traversed the corneal profile through the light guide body. Also disclosed is an ophthalmological topographer comprising the light guide. Further disclosed is an ophthalmological topographer comprising a scleral projection system. Methods of determining topography are also disclosed.