Ophthalmologic Imaging Tracking Controller for Scan Position Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmologic photographing apparatuses require re-adjustment of scan positions when changing photographing conditions, such as scan patterns or angles, which is inconvenient and prone to errors due to the need to re-set the scan position manually.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmologic photographing apparatus with a tracking controller that adjusts and maintains the scan position based on real-time front images, allowing for continuous tracking and accurate imaging even when photographing conditions are changed, using a combination of a scanning unit, observing optical system, and condition setting unit to ensure consistent imaging of the same portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual scan position setting is used, then the scan position can be adjusted, but re-adjustment is required when photographing conditions change
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking controller continuously monitors the front image from the observing optical system and automatically adjusts the scanning unit's position based on this feedback, eliminating the need for manual re-adjustment when photographing conditions change. The system maintains real-time tracking of the photographing portion through closed-loop control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting changes in the photographing portion position and compensating for them without external intervention. The tracking controller autonomously maintains the scan position relative to the desired area even when conditions such as scan pattern or angle are changed.
2Reliability
If manual scan position re-setting is required, then condition changes can be accommodated, but accuracy is reduced due to manual adjustment errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time feedback from the front image to continuously monitor and adjust the scan position, ensuring high precision is maintained throughout the photographing process. The tracking controller compares the current position with the desired position and makes precise adjustments automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses image processing and electronic control. The tracking controller uses computational methods to determine position and adjust the scanning unit, eliminating human error in the adjustment process.
3Extent of automation
If tracking control is implemented, then scan position is maintained automatically, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking controller integrates multiple functions including image processing, position detection, and scanning control into a single unified system. The observing optical system serves dual purposes by providing both real-time imaging for tracking and reference information for position correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the tracking control functions with the existing photographing apparatus components. The scanning unit, observing optical system, and condition setting unit are integrated into a coordinated system where the tracking controller manages all functions through unified control logic.
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 easy capture of tomographic images under different conditions without the need for manual re-adjustment of scan positions, improving accuracy and convenience by maintaining the scan position relative to the desired area, even during changes in scanning conditions.
Implementation Method 1
An ophthalmic optical coherence tomography (OCT) apparatus using low coherent light is known as an ophthalmologic photographing apparatus that can obtain a tomographic image of a predetermined portion (e.g., the fundus or anterior segment) of an examinee's eye noninvasively
Implementation Method 2
an observing optical system, including a light-receiving device for receiving reflected light from the examinee's eye, for obtaining a front image of the examinee's eye based on a light receiving signal from the light-receiving device
Data Source
AI summary
An ophthalmologic photographing apparatus includes: a photographing optical system, including a scanning unit for scanning an examinee's eye with measurement light, for obtaining a tomographic image of the examinee's eye; an observing optical system, including a light-receiving device for receiving reflected light from the examinee's eye, for obtaining a front image of the examinee's eye based on a light receiving signal from the light-receiving device; a condition setting unit for setting conditions for capturing a tomographic image; and a tracking controller for performing tracking that controls the scanning unit in a manner of scanning a predetermined photographing portion of the examinee's eye based on a front image acquired by the observing optical system as well as performing tracking related to substantially the same photographing portion even in a case where the photographing condition is changed by the condition setting unit.