Ocular Optical Array Retinal Mapping via Beam Steering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for targeting specific areas of the retina surface are invasive and difficult to achieve, particularly for therapeutic and diagnostic applications, as they often require direct interface with neurons or chemical injection, which are not practical for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A surgically implanted ocular optical array device with an optical phased array (OPA) that receives visible light, generates an optical signal, and projects images onto specific areas of the retina using beam steering, integrated with control circuitry and a wireless communication antenna, allowing for precise mapping and image projection onto healthy retinal areas to reduce or eliminate scotomas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct interface with retinal neurons or chemical injection is used to target specific retinal areas, then therapeutic and diagnostic precision is improved, but surgical invasiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/surgical intervention (direct neuronal interface or chemical injection) with an optical system. The OPA device uses optical signals to stimulate and map retinal areas non-invasively, substituting physical penetration with light-based interaction that achieves the same diagnostic and therapeutic goals without surgical trauma
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system between the external world and the retinal neurons. The OPA device acts as a mediator that converts visual information into optical signals that can be projected onto specific retinal areas, enabling precise targeting without direct contact or injection into the retinal tissue
2Measurement precision
If optical phased array is used to project images onto specific retinal areas, then retinal mapping precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functional components into a nested hierarchical structure. The OPA device contains imaging system, optical source generating circuitry, control circuitry, and wireless communication antenna all integrated within a single implantable unit, with each component nested within the overall device architecture to achieve precise retinal mapping while managing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the OPA device to perform multiple functions within a single system: imaging the retina, generating optical signals, steering beams to specific areas, wireless communication for programming, and self-powering. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining high mapping precision
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication antenna and rechargeable battery are integrated, then device functionality is improved, but power management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality through the rechargeable battery that can be recharged wirelessly from external charging systems. The device autonomously manages its own power needs without requiring surgical replacement or external wiring, and the wireless communication antenna enables self-programming and configuration, reducing the need for complex external power management infrastructure
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 device provides a less invasive solution for detailed retinal mapping and image projection, enabling precise targeting of functional retina areas, reducing scotomas, and improving visual function with minimal surgical invasiveness, making it more accessible for various medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the OPA projects the image onto the predetermined area of the retina using beam steering
Data Source
AI summary
A surgically implanted ocular optical array that can be used in both therapeutic and diagnostic applications is described. A device configured to be implanted in an eye includes: an imaging system that receives visible light incoming to the eye; optical source generating circuitry that generates an optical signal based on the light received by the imaging system; and an optical phased array (OPA) that generates and projects an image onto a retina of the eye in which the device is implanted, the image being based on the optical signal generated by the optical source generating circuitry.