Ophthalmic Device Lighting Array for Artefact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rural and remote areas face a lack of ophthalmic service coverage due to the high cost and complexity of ophthalmological equipment, limited availability of ophthalmologists, and the sensitivity of eye examinations, making it difficult to resource Emergency Departments effectively for eye injuries, which are often not directly related to the severity of the underlying issue.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for remotely capturing and assessing eye images using a combination of image display, capture, and lighting systems that include multiple light sources to reduce light artefacts, allowing for efficient communication of ophthalmic data over a network for remote assessment, enabling efficient use of ophthalmological expertise and minimizing the need for on-site specialists.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex ophthalmological equipment is deployed to improve diagnostic accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging modalities (anterior segment imaging, posterior segment imaging, visual field testing) into a single integrated ophthalmic device. This merging approach maintains comprehensive diagnostic capability while simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing the need for multiple separate complex devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital imaging and data capture to create accurate representations of eye conditions. Digital copies of ocular structures are captured and transmitted remotely, allowing specialists to assess conditions without physically examining the patient, thereby simplifying on-site equipment requirements while maintaining diagnostic precision.
2Measurement precision
If specialized ophthalmological equipment is introduced to improve diagnostic capability, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to training requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated image capture and remote transmission of ophthalmic data. The device automatically captures images and transmits them to remote specialists, reducing the need for trained operators to manually perform complex procedures. The system serves itself by automating data collection and relay functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote specialist as an intermediary who performs the actual diagnostic assessment. The local device acts as a mediator, capturing and transmitting data to the remote expert, thereby eliminating the need for local operators to possess specialized ophthalmological expertise while maintaining high diagnostic accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If multiple light sources are added to reduce light artefacts, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is segmented into multiple independent light sources positioned at different locations and angles. Each light source can be individually controlled to illuminate specific areas of the eye from different perspectives. This segmentation allows the system to eliminate light artefacts by capturing multiple views and processing them to remove artifacts, while keeping each individual light source relatively simple.
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 solution allows for effective remote assessment and potential treatment of eye conditions, reducing the complexity and cost of ophthalmic care, improving access to ophthalmic services in underserved areas by simplifying the use of ophthalmic equipment and leveraging remote expertise.
Implementation Method 1
a beam splitter positioned to split light between the image capture device and the image display device
Implementation Method 2
each of the first array and the second array comprise two or more different light types wherein each of the first array and the second array are comprised in a respective lighting housing wherein each of the two or more different light types comprise respective lower light sources and upper light sources which may be individually complementarily illuminated in a series of captured images so that a light artefact may be eliminated or at least substantially reduced
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
The present invention relates to an eye testing and image capture device for testing and examination of an eye comprising an image display device to display an image for viewing by an eye to be tested; an image capture device to capture an image of the eye; a beam splitter positioned to split light between the image capture device and the image display device; and a lighting array for illuminating the eye wherein the lighting array comprises a first array positioned at a first angle to the eye and a second array positioned at a second angle to the eye and the first array and second array comprise two or more different light types. The present invention also relates to a method of obtaining eye test data and one or more image of an eye as well as to a system and method of screening a patient using the device and method.