OCT Apparatus Eye Tracking via Optical Path Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ophthalmologic imaging apparatuses face challenges in performing preparatory operations for OCT measurement due to eye movement, which can cause the site of interest to be rendered near or outside the image frame, leading to improper operations and failed image acquisition.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmologic imaging apparatus with a data acquisition unit for repeated scanning and a controller that adjusts the optical path length difference between the sample and reference arms to maintain the eye's image within the image frame, using auto-Z and Z-lock controls to correct and maintain the image position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If OCT measurement is performed on a living eye, then the eye can be imaged noninvasively, but the eye moves during preparatory operations causing the site of interest to be rendered near or outside the image frame
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously acquires eye position information during preparatory operations and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the optical path length difference, maintaining the site of interest within the image frame despite eye movement
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static optical path length difference adjustment to dynamic adjustment that adapts to real-time eye movement, allowing the imaging system to track and maintain proper positioning of the site of interest
2Ease of operation
If the optical path length difference is adjusted to place the image in a reference position, then the preparatory operations can be performed, but eye movement causes the site of interest to move to the edge or outside of the image frame
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors eye position continuously during preparatory operations and provides real-time feedback adjustments to the optical path length difference, maintaining precise positioning of the site of interest within the image frame
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary acquisition of eye position information before and during preparatory operations, enabling proactive adjustment of the optical path length difference to prevent the site of interest from moving out of the image frame
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
Enables proper performance of preparatory operations and ensures the site of interest is accurately positioned within the image frame, even with eye movement, allowing for effective OCT measurement and image acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
OCT that uses interference of light to image a surface morphology and internal morphology of an object
Data Source
AI summary
An ophthalmologic imaging apparatus includes a data acquisition unit and a controller. The data acquisition unit is configured to repeatedly acquire data by repeatedly scanning an eye using optical coherence tomography. The controller is configured to perform first control to adjust optical path length difference between a sample arm and a reference arm of an interference optical system for optical coherence tomography to place an image of the eye in a reference position in an image frame based on the data repeatedly acquired by the data acquisition unit. Further, the controller is configured to perform second control to change the optical path length difference so as to place the image of the eye in a new reference position in the image frame based on the data repeatedly acquired by the data acquisition unit. The apparatus can perform preparatory operations for OCT measurement of the subject's eye.