Multi-Angle Ophthalmic Imaging for Patient-Specific Refractive Indices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ophthalmic imaging techniques lack non-invasive methods to determine patient-specific refractive indices of the optical components in the eye, relying instead on averaged or invasive measurements, which hinders accurate geometric modeling and surgical planning.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using ophthalmic imaging devices to capture measurements at multiple angles, applying various refractive indices to generate 3D models, and comparing these models to identify a congruent set that corresponds to the true refractive indices of the eye's components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If averaged patient-independent values for refractive indices are used, then the imaging process is simplified and faster, but the accuracy of geometric model reconstruction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the refractive index values in the geometric model during image processing. Multiple candidate refractive index values are tested against the actual imaging data, and the correct values are identified by finding the model that produces images matching the actual captured images. This resolves the contradiction by automatically determining patient-specific refractive indices without manual intervention, maintaining speed while improving accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If invasive or destructive measurement techniques are used, then direct measurement of refractive indices is achieved, but patient safety and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating a virtual geometric model of the eye that replicates the actual eye's optical properties. Instead of physically measuring the refractive indices through invasive techniques, the system captures images of the eye and computationally determines the refractive indices by comparing the actual images with simulated images generated from the geometric model. This virtual copying approach achieves direct measurement accuracy without any physical intrusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical or physical measurement techniques with an optical and computational approach. Instead of using invasive probes or destructive sampling to measure refractive indices, the system uses optical imaging combined with computational algorithms to indirectly but accurately determine the refractive indices by analyzing how light interacts with the eye's optical components in the captured images.
3Measurement precision
If multiple refractive index values are tested to find the correct model, then patient-specific accuracy is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by iteratively comparing the images generated from the geometric model with the actual captured images and adjusting the refractive index values accordingly. The system evaluates which refractive index values produce the best match between simulated and actual images, using this feedback loop to automatically converge on the correct patient-specific values. This feedback mechanism manages computational complexity through systematic elimination of incorrect values rather than exhaustive search.
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 accurate, non-invasive determination of patient-specific refractive indices, facilitating precise geometric modeling and improving surgical planning and diagnostic accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
ophthalmic imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, and scanning laser polarimetry
Implementation Method 2
the refractive indices of the optical components inside the eye are needed
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a non-invasive technique to determine a true set of refractive indices of a patient's eye in order to generate an accurate model of the patient's eye. Certain aspects provide a system for generating a three-dimensional reconstruction model of a patient's eye. The system includes an imaging device configured to generate first and second measurements of a patient's eye at first and second angles relative to a line of sight of the patient's eye. The system includes an image processor configured to generate a first and second plurality of models of the patient's eye based on applying a plurality of sets of refractive indices to the first and second measurements; identify a first model from the first plurality of models that is congruent with a second model from the second plurality of models; and determine a set of refractive indices associated with the first and second models.