Ophthalmic Device Positioning via Image Sharpness Maximization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning ophthalmic devices, such as excimer lasers, during corneal surgery are prone to errors and require human intervention or additional hardware, lacking accuracy and automation in achieving optimal eye alignment and focus.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses image processing to determine the optimal position of the eye relative to an ophthalmic device by maximizing sharpness values through incremental adjustments, utilizing a processor and software to analyze images and adjust the device's position automatically, without requiring additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional positioning methods are used, then the system can operate with simpler hardware, but positioning accuracy and automation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning methods with an automated image processing system. The system captures images of the eye and uses computational algorithms to automatically determine optimal positioning, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and traditional mechanical alignment tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-alignment by automatically analyzing eye images and adjusting positioning without human intervention. The image processing software independently evaluates eye position and focus, making the system self-sufficient in achieving optimal alignment.
2Measurement precision
If additional hardware is used for positioning assistance, then positioning accuracy can be improved, but the system becomes more complex and requires more components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital copies of the eye (images) instead of physical measurement tools or additional optical components. By capturing and analyzing images of the eye, the system achieves precise positioning information without requiring extra hardware infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes physical positioning hardware with software-based image analysis. Instead of using additional optical sensors or mechanical alignment devices, the system uses computational algorithms processed on existing images to achieve precise positioning.
3Productivity
If manual operator intervention is used for positioning, then the system can be simpler, but productivity and automation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs positioning without requiring operator intervention. The image processing software independently captures, analyzes, and determines optimal eye position, making the system fully automated and eliminating manual adjustment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors eye position through image capture and provides real-time feedback for automatic adjustment. By analyzing images and comparing them against optimal positioning criteria, the system self-corrects and maintains precise alignment without manual input.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for determining an optimal position of an eye relative to an ophthalmic device are disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes receiving data comprising an image of a surface of an eye with the eye at a first position relative to an ophthalmic device. An edge feature in the image is located, and a sharpness calculation on the edge feature is performed using a predetermined algorithm to yield a sharpness value. The eye surface is then adjusted to a second position relative to the ophthalmic device, and the previous steps are repeated until the sharpness value is maximized, which is an indication that an optimal eye position has been achieved. An embodiment of the system includes a processor and a software package executable by the processor, the software package adapted to perform the calculations as above. Means are also provided for adjusting the eye surface to a second position relative to the ophthalmic device.