Optical Parameter Determination via Image Blur Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining optical parameters of eyewear require complex and costly equipment, as well as trained personnel, making it difficult for individuals to obtain accurate measurements, especially when ordering new eyewear without visiting an eye care practitioner.

Innovation Solution

A method using a portable electronic device to adjust the configuration of an optical system and determine optical parameters based on the blur level of images acquired through the device in different states, allowing for self-assessment of optical parameters such as optical power and cylindrical power of lenses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If complex equipment like lens mapper and lens meter is used to determine optical parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical parameter determination accuracyVSAvoidequipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the professional lens mapping function using a smartphone camera and computational algorithms. Instead of requiring physical lens mapper equipment, the system captures images through the optical device and processes them computationally to determine optical parameters, thereby replicating professional measurement capabilities with consumer-grade hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems (lens mappers, lens meters) with a computational imaging system. The mechanical adjustment and measurement functions are substituted by capturing images at different configurations and using algorithms to extract optical parameters from the image data, eliminating the need for specialized mechanical equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If professional equipment is used for optical measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring qualified personnel

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical parameter determination accuracyVSAvoiduser accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables users to perform their own optical measurements without requiring professional eye care practitioners or qualified personnel. The system is designed to be operated by end-users themselves, who can capture images through their optical devices and obtain measurement results using the provided application, thus making the service self-performable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transfers the measurement capability from professional settings to consumer devices. By implementing the measurement functionality in a smartphone application, it copies the essential measurement capability and makes it accessible to anyone with a compatible device, eliminating the barrier of requiring specialized training or professional presence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If traditional measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to complex procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical parameter determination accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses periodic action by capturing a series of images at different, predetermined configurations of the optical system. Rather than continuous measurement, the system takes discrete images at specific positions, then processes them computationally to determine optical parameters, which streamlines the measurement process while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement procedures with rapid computational image processing. Multiple images captured in quick succession are processed algorithmically to extract optical parameters, significantly reducing the time required compared to traditional manual measurement methods while preserving measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 quick, cost-effective, and accurate determination of optical parameters, facilitating remote ordering of eyewear and mass distribution programs, particularly in areas with limited optical resources.

Implementation Method 1

an optical system comprising a visual target 12, an optical device 14 and an image acquisition module 16 is provided

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical refraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

a parameter of the optical device is determined based on the blur level of the images of the visual target acquired by the image acquisition module through the optical device in at least two different configuration states

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical focusing: Focusing

Data Source

PatentEP3419499B1Method for determining a parameter of an optical device comprising at least an optical lens
Publication Date: 2023.08.16 ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL(COMPAGNIE GENERALE D OPTIQUE)
  • EP3419499B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3419499B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~4b
  • EP3419499B1 patent drawingFigure 3b~3d

AI summary

Method for determining a parameter of an optical device comprising at least an optical lens, the method comprising: -an optical system providing step, during which an optical system comprising a visual target, the optical device and an image acquisition module is provided in an initial configuration state, -a parameter determining step during which a parameter of the optical device is determined based on the blur level of the images of the visual target acquired by the image acquisition module through the optical device in at least two different configuration states.