Ophthalmic Laser Beam Detection Using Automated Spot Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser systems face challenges in accurately detecting deviations in laser beam accuracy and precision due to environmental factors and human error in manual inspection, which can lead to improper laser spot formation and surgical complications.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmic laser system comprising a laser system, imaging system, and computer that automatically analyzes digital images of laser spots to detect deviations from planned patterns, identifying issues and providing corrective commands to align the laser beam and scanner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inspection by human technician is used to detect laser spot deviations, then the system can identify problems with laser beam accuracy, but the detection process is slow and subject to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated imaging system comprising a digital camera and computer analysis software. The system captures images of laser spots and uses image processing algorithms to automatically measure spot positions, diameters, and shapes, eliminating human subjectivity and accelerating the detection process while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-diagnosis by automatically comparing actual laser spot parameters against planned parameters and generating deviation reports without requiring human intervention. The computer system performs independent analysis of captured images, identifies deviations beyond acceptable tolerances, and flags potential issues, allowing the laser system to monitor and evaluate its own performance.
2Productivity
If automated imaging system is implemented to detect laser spot deviations, then detection speed and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system serves multiple functions within a single integrated setup: it captures laser spot images, measures spot parameters (position, diameter, shape), compares measurements against planned values, and generates deviation reports. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices for each measurement task, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer as an intermediary between the digital camera and the user. The computer automatically processes images, performs measurements, compares results with planned parameters, and presents findings in a user-friendly format. This intermediary handles the complex image analysis and measurement calculations, keeping the user interface simple while enabling sophisticated automated detection capabilities.
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 enhances the speed and reliability of detecting and correcting laser beam deviations, ensuring precise surgical outcomes by automating the detection and correction process, reducing human error and improving surgical safety.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging system has a digital camera that generates a digital image of the actual test pattern
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic laser system include a laser system, imaging system, and computer. The laser system accesses a planned test pattern of a planned laser spot having a planned beam feature and directs a laser beam towards a test target located at a target plane according to the planned test pattern to yield an actual test pattern of an actual laser spot having an actual beam feature. The imaging system includes one or more digital cameras that generate a digital image of the actual test pattern of the actual laser spot. The computer analyzes the digital image to compare the actual laser spot to the planned laser spot, to detect a deviation of the actual beam feature from the planned beam feature, to identify an issue indicated by the deviation, and to provide output in response to the issue.