Ophthalmic Pupil Alignment Using Dual Fixation Targets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmologic imaging systems, particularly OCT devices, require complex and costly alignment processes that rely on trained operators or automated systems, which are not suitable for self-administered procedures like at-home use, and lack effective self-alignment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing first and second fixation targets with different optical characteristics, spatially filtered by apertures and filters, providing intuitive feedback to subjects for aligning their pupils with the imaging device, allowing self-alignment and reducing reliance on external operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated alignment systems are used, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables subjects to perform self-alignment using fixation targets and visual feedback mechanisms. The subject adjusts their own positioning by observing the alignment indicators, eliminating the need for external operators or complex automated positioning systems while maintaining high alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time visual feedback through alignment indicators and fixation targets that show the subject whether their pupil is properly aligned with the imaging device. This feedback loop allows the subject to make precise adjustments without requiring complex automated control systems.
2Measurement precision
If operator training is provided, then alignment competency is improved, but operational time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is designed to be intuitively operable by subjects without requiring trained operators. The self-aligning mechanism with visual feedback enables anyone to achieve proper alignment through self-instruction, eliminating the need for extensive operator training while maintaining high alignment competency.
3Ease of operation
If self-alignment mechanism is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but alignment precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates multiple visual feedback indicators including fixation targets and alignment markers that provide real-time information to the subject about their positioning accuracy. This feedback enables the subject to achieve high-precision alignment through self-adjustment without sacrificing alignment quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multiple fixation targets and redundant visual indicators that provide more alignment information than strictly necessary. This excessive visual feedback ensures that even subjects with limited dexterity or visual acuity can achieve precise alignment, maintaining high precision while maximizing ease of operation.
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 subjects to align ophthalmologic devices with high precision and ease, reducing costs and complexity, facilitating self-administered procedures, and enhancing safety by minimizing operator interaction.
Implementation Method 1
first and second fixation targets located in a first plane and respectively configured to transmit light having first and second optical characteristics
Implementation Method 2
first and second apertures located in a second plane and configured to spatially filter the light transmitted from the first and second fixation targets
Implementation Method 3
first and second filters located approximately in the second plane, the first filter configured to optically filter the spatially filtered light from the first fixation target to have the first optical characteristic
Implementation Method 4
at least one lens configured to image the first and second apertures in the second plane to a third plane approximately corresponding to the subject's pupil
Implementation Method 5
based upon the ophthalmologic device being misaligned with the subject's pupil in approximately the third plane, the subject's pupil blocks the image of at least one of the first and second apertures
Implementation Method 6
light from the first light source of the ophthalmologic device enters the subject's pupil, is reflected or scattered by the subject's retina, exits the subject's pupil, and is received by the image sensor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A system for assisting a subject with alignment with an ophthalmologic device that includes a first light source and an image sensor. The system includes first and second fixation targets located in a first plane to transmit light having first and second optical characteristics. Also, first and second apertures are located in a second plane and configured to spatially filter the light transmitted from the first and second fixation targets. At least one lens configured to image the first and second apertures in the second plane to a third plane approximately corresponding to the subject's pupil, wherein, based upon the ophthalmologic device being misaligned with the subject's pupil in the third plane, the subject's retina receives an image of at most one of the first and second fixation targets.