Portable Fundus Camera Modular Design and Auto-Focus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fundus cameras are bulky, expensive, and require specialized training to operate, limiting access to retinal imaging, especially in remote and underserved areas, and are not portable enough for widespread use in managing retinal and optic nerve diseases.
Innovation Solution
A compact, portable fundus camera system that allows for easy use by individuals of varying backgrounds, integrating lenses, illumination systems, image stitching software, and compatibility with handheld computing platforms like iPhone and Android devices, enabling digital imaging and remote consultation, along with ultrasound probe technology for media opacity evaluation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If table-top fundus cameras are used to acquire high quality retinal images, then imaging quality is improved, but device portability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fundus camera system into separate modular components: a handheld imaging unit that can be detached from the base station. This segmentation allows the imaging quality functions to remain in the main unit while the handheld portion becomes simple and portable, resolving the contradiction between high-quality imaging and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a base station as an intermediary that handles complex operations such as image processing, storage, and connectivity. The handheld unit communicates with the base station, allowing the user to interact with a simple device while the intermediary performs the complex functions needed for high-quality imaging.
2Volume of moving object
If hand-held fundus cameras are made compact, then portability is improved, but alignment and focusing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld fundus camera incorporates automatic alignment and focusing mechanisms that self-adjust during use. The device uses sensors and computational algorithms to automatically compensate for misalignment and focus issues, eliminating the need for manual adjustment by the user and reducing operational complexity despite the compact form factor.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fundus cameras are made portable for widespread distribution, then accessibility is improved, but cost reduction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fundus camera functionality with existing portable computing devices such as smartphones or tablets. By combining the imaging unit with a commonly owned device, the system achieves widespread accessibility without requiring users to purchase a completely new expensive system, thereby addressing both accessibility and cost concerns.
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
Facilitates accessible, high-quality retinal imaging and improved patient care by enabling easy use in diverse settings, reducing costs, and enhancing access to retinal diagnostics, particularly in underserved populations, while integrating with existing medical technologies for comprehensive eye care.
Implementation Method 1
receiving light reflected back from the fundus onto an image sensor in the camera
Implementation Method 2
a forward lens, with optics capable of focusing light reflected back from the fundus onto an image sensor
Implementation Method 3
a light source configured to direct light from locations distributed around the perimeter of the forward lens forwardly out of the housing end
Data Source
AI summary
A portable hand-held camera for imaging the fundus of an eye, the camera comprising a housing comprising an internal cavity terminating at a forward housing end, a forward lens, and a light source configured to direct light from locations distributed around the perimeter of the forward lens forwardly out of the housing end. In other embodiment, a portable hand-held camera for imaging the fundus of an eye includes optics configured to focus light reflected back from the fundus onto an image receptor, with the optics being capable of varying the field of view among differing portions of the fundus. Methods to ensure unique image identification and storage are described.