Retinal Densitometer Dark Adaptation Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inadequate for early detection of age-related macular degeneration and other retinal diseases, as they fail to effectively measure critical changes in the retina's adaptation to dark conditions, which are indicative of these conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a control unit, a head unit with optics and imaging, and an analysis unit that synchronizes light generation and image acquisition to measure retinal reflectance and bleaching, using multiple wavelengths and controlled illumination to map retinal changes over time, allowing for detailed imaging and analysis of dark adaptation and photo-bleaching processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional vision testing methods are used, then basic visual acuity can be assessed, but early signs of retinal disease related to dark adaptation changes cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the illumination parameter by transitioning from light to dark conditions, enabling measurement of dark adaptation characteristics. The apparatus controls illumination levels to induce and measure dark adaptation, allowing detection of early retinal disease signs that conventional methods miss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic illumination cycles, alternating between light and dark periods, to stimulate and measure the retina's adaptation response. This periodic action enables capture of dynamic dark adaptation changes over time, providing early disease detection capability.
2Loss of information
If multiple wavelengths are used to map retinal changes, then detailed spatial information can be obtained, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the illumination spectrum into multiple discrete wavelengths, with each wavelength providing specific retinal information. This segmentation allows comprehensive spatial mapping of retinal reflectance while managing system complexity through modular wavelength selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with multi-functional capability to operate at multiple wavelengths simultaneously, enabling comprehensive retinal assessment across different spectral regions. This universal design allows a single system to perform diverse measurements without requiring separate specialized devices.
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 precise measurement and monitoring of retinal changes, facilitating early detection and potential treatment of retinal diseases by providing spatially mapped reflectance data and allowing for the evaluation of dark adaptation and bleaching responses, thereby supporting the diagnosis of conditions like age-related macular degeneration.
Implementation Method 1
The generated illumination may be visible light. In particular, the measurement module is arranged to output light of one or more predetermined wavelengths, or wavelength bands, such that the reflectance of the light at that wavelength from the patient's eye is determined
Implementation Method 2
The bleaching module is arranged to generate illumination for photo-bleaching the patient's retina
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a retinal densitometer, comprising an illumination unit for outputting bleaching illumination for photo-bleaching an eye and reflectance illumination at one or more wavelengths for determining reflectance of the eye at the one or more wavelengths,an imaging device arranged to output image data corresponding to an image of the eye at the one or more wavelengths of reflectance illumination, and a control unit arranged to control the illumination unit and the imaging device to output the bleaching illumination, the reflectance illumination at the one or more wavelengths and to output image data according to a predetermined sequence.