Retina Imaging with Prismatic Light Routing and 3D Switching
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic imaging systems face challenges such as poor ergonomics, limited adaptability to digital processing, complex optical paths, low resolution, and difficulty in switching between 3D and high-resolution monoscopic viewing, which affect the accuracy and efficiency of retinal examinations.
Innovation Solution
A compact and maneuverable ophthalmic stereomicroscopy apparatus with an optical relay, shutter, tube lens, and prismatic input port that allows for 2D or 3D imaging, adjustable stereopsis, and high-resolution monoscopic viewing, incorporating features like digital zoom and optical coherence tomography, and supports both conventional and coaxial illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect ophthalmoscope techniques are used, then digital imaging tools can be partially utilized, but the procedure requires expert operation with poor patient tolerance and low image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a digital imaging system with automated positioning and image processing capabilities as an intermediary between the practitioner and the patient's eye. The system includes a digital camera, illumination source, and processing unit that automatically capture and enhance retinal images, eliminating the need for manual lens positioning by experts while delivering high-quality images with better patient tolerance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical positioning of objective lenses with an automated digital imaging system. The system uses electronic control for positioning, illumination, and image capture, substituting the complex mechanical adjustments required in indirect ophthalmoscopy with automated digital processes that are easier to operate and produce superior image quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If stereomicroscopy is used for intraocular surgery, then 3D imaging capability is provided, but the system size is large causing patient obscuration and limited maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the imaging system components into a compact, nested configuration where the camera, illumination source, and optical elements are arranged in a space-efficient manner. The system can be positioned close to the patient without causing obscuration, maintaining 3D imaging capability while reducing the overall volume and improving maneuverability during intraocular surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional large-scale stereomicroscopy to a compact configuration by reimagining the spatial arrangement of components. The system achieves 3D imaging functionality in a minimized footprint, allowing it to be positioned in previously inaccessible areas without patient obscuration, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space more efficiently.
3Volume of moving object
If stereomicroscope aperture size is limited, then system compactness is achieved, but visibility of retinal features is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic illumination with the illumination source, cycling between different illumination states to enhance the visibility of retinal features through the limited aperture. This periodic action allows the system to maintain compactness while achieving sufficient image quality for retinal examination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes digital image processing techniques that change parameters such as contrast, brightness, and enhancement algorithms to improve the visibility of retinal features. By processing the captured images digitally, the system compensates for the limited aperture size and maintains good visibility without increasing the physical aperture dimensions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If digital image acquisition is added to legacy analog systems, then some digital functions are provided, but full digital capabilities and ergonomics are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a unified digital imaging system that integrates multiple functions including image capture, processing, display, and storage in a single platform. The system provides both 2D and 3D imaging capabilities, automated positioning, and various viewing modes, replacing the need for separate analog and digital systems while improving ergonomics through centralized control and digital interfaces.
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 high-resolution, ergonomic, and adaptable imaging with improved surgeon comfort, allowing seamless switching between 3D and monoscopic modes, enhanced visibility of retinal features, and integration with advanced imaging technologies like OCT, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of retinal examinations.
Implementation Method 1
an optical relay that defines an optical path and is configured to relay an image of the iris along the optical path to a pupil
Implementation Method 2
an optical relay that defines an optical path and is configured to relay an image of the iris along the optical path to a pupil
Implementation Method 3
a shutter disposed at the pupil and configured to define at least a first shutter aperture for control of light transmission through the pupil position
Implementation Method 4
a tube lens disposed to direct light from the shutter aperture to one or more image sensors
Implementation Method 5
a prismatic input port disposed between the shutter and the tube lens and configured to combine, onto the optical path, light from the relay with light conveyed along a second light path that is orthogonal or extraneous to the optical path
Implementation Method 6
a prismatic input port disposed between the shutter and the tube lens and configured to combine, onto the optical path, light from the relay with light conveyed along a second light path that is orthogonal or extraneous to the optical path
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for obtaining an image of a retina is described herein. The apparatus includes an optical relay that defines an optical path and is configured to relay an image of the iris along the optical path to a pupil, a shutter is disposed at the pupil and configured to define at least a first shutter aperture for control of light transmission through the pupil position, a tube lens disposed to direct light from the shutter aperture to an image sensor, and a prismatic input port disposed between the shutter and the tube lens and configured to combine, onto the optical path, light from the relay with light conveyed along a second light path that is orthogonal to the optical path.