Peripheral Retinal Phototherapy via Diffractive Lens Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phototherapy devices are ineffective when users attempt to engage in activities like reading or working due to light obstruction by eyelids, and they either require users to remain stationary or inundate the entire field of vision, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A portable phototherapy device with a light source positioned at the periphery of the field of vision, using diffractive lenses to deflect light rays onto a specific zone of the retina, allowing for activities while minimizing light obstruction and maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the light source is positioned directly in front of the eyes, then the phototherapy effectiveness is maximized, but the user cannot perform activities like reading or working due to light obstruction by eyelids
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is repositioned from the central field of view to the periphery of the field of vision, changing the spatial dimension of light delivery. This peripheral positioning allows the light to enter the eye without requiring the user to lower their eyelids, thus maintaining both phototherapy effectiveness and the ability to perform activities like reading and working.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention directs light to a specific zone of the retina (excluding the fovea) rather than uniformly illuminating the entire retina. This localized approach allows the fovea to remain functional for detailed vision during activities while the peripheral retina receives therapeutic light exposure.
2Ease of operation
If the light source is positioned at the periphery of the field of vision, then the user can perform activities like reading and working, but the phototherapy effectiveness may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a spectacle lens that integrates both corrective/optical functions and phototherapy delivery. The light source, optical elements, and control systems are nested within a compact spectacle-mounted device, allowing peripheral light delivery while maintaining sufficient retinal illumination for effective phototherapy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable light intensity and duration controls that allow optimization of phototherapy parameters despite the peripheral positioning. The dynamic adjustment capabilities ensure adequate light dosage is delivered to the retina while maintaining user comfort and activity capability.
3Reliability
If the entire field of vision is inundated with light, then phototherapy coverage is maximized, but no activities are allowed since vision is overwhelmed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention selectively illuminates specific zones of the retina while leaving other areas dark. By targeting peripheral retinal zones for phototherapy while preserving foveal darkness, the system enables simultaneous phototherapy treatment and normal visual function for activities like reading and working.
4Ease of operation
If a portable lighting unit is fixed to the head, then mobility is improved, but the device becomes heavy and conspicuous
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs lightweight, low-cost components such as LED light sources and thin spectacle lens materials. These components provide sufficient phototherapy function while minimizing the weight and bulk of the portable device, making it comfortable for extended wear without compromising mobility.
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 users to perform semi-sedentary tasks like reading and working during treatment without reducing the effectiveness of phototherapy, by directing light rays to a non-foveal area of the retina, thus maintaining vision and enhancing the treatment's benefits.
Implementation Method 1
using diffractive lenses to deflect light rays onto a specific zone of the retina
Data Source
AI summary
A phototherapy method, acting on the eyes (5) of an individual through light rays (R) of at least one specific wavelength, emitted by at least one light source (3) stationary relative to his/her head, which consists in: arranging the light source (3) at the periphery of his/her visual field allowing the individual's normal activities and in deflecting the light rays (R) onto a specific zone (9) of the retina (11), so as to maintain vision.