Modular Retinal Imaging Adapter for Handheld Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smartphone adapters for retinal imaging with handheld computer devices lack reliability, usability, and are not cost-effective, with issues related to light sources being too bright and requiring separate regulatory approvals for each device model.
Innovation Solution
A modular adapter system that includes a clamp, adjustable light source, macro lens, and ophthalmoscopy lens, allowing alignment of optical axes for improved image quality, with an adjustable light source to reduce patient discomfort and streamline regulatory approvals by using a single light source across different devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If existing smartphone adapters use fixed bright light sources, then illumination is sufficient for imaging, but patient discomfort increases and regulatory approval becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an adjustable light source that can vary its illumination intensity dynamically. The light source includes a control mechanism that allows the user to adjust the brightness level, transforming a fixed bright light source into a dynamic system that can adapt to different imaging conditions and patient tolerance levels, thereby reducing patient discomfort while maintaining sufficient illumination for retinal imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of light intensity from a fixed value to an adjustable range. By implementing a light source with variable output levels, the system can modify the illumination parameter to match both the imaging requirements and patient comfort thresholds, resolving the contradiction between sufficient illumination and patient discomfort
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing adapters are designed for specific device models, then compatibility with that model is ensured, but regulatory approval must be obtained separately for each device model
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the adapter with universal engagement features that can accommodate multiple hand-held computer device models. The clamp mechanism and engagement surfaces are configured to work with various device sizes and shapes, allowing a single adapter design to function across different device models, thereby eliminating the need for separate regulatory approvals for each model while maintaining compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed as a modular system with separable components including a clamp portion and an imaging assembly. This segmentation allows the core imaging components to remain consistent across different device configurations while only the engagement interface varies, simplifying the regulatory approval process by maintaining consistency in the critical imaging and illumination subsystems
3Ease of operation
If optical components are fixed in position, then alignment is simple, but image quality and focus adjustment are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements movable optical components including the macro lens and ophthalmoscopy lens that can be adjusted along the optical axis. The lens holder assembly includes translation mechanisms that allow precise positioning of the lenses while maintaining alignment with the camera optical axis, enabling both ease of operation through guided movement and high image quality through precise focal point adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment mechanism that includes alignment features and guides between the movable lens components and the camera. This intermediary system ensures that while the lenses can move for focus adjustment, they maintain proper optical alignment through the intermediary alignment structures, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and measurement precision
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
The adapter system provides high-quality retinal images comparable to expensive medical equipment, is portable, easy to use, and cost-effective, enabling healthcare providers to image patients in various settings, including remote locations, while ensuring regulatory compliance.
Implementation Method 1
a clamp configured to engage with the hand held computer device at a first location and a second location
Implementation Method 2
an adjustable light source with a light axis parallel to a macro lens optical axis
Implementation Method 3
a lens holder engaged with a macro lens movable between a first position in the optical axis of the camera and a second position outside of the optical axis of the camera
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter configured to engage with a hand held computer device to allow a camera on the hand held computer device to take a high quality image of an eye. The adapter allows for high quality imaging of the anterior portion of the eye and the posterior portion of the eye. The adapter can include additional modular components such as an optical pathway enclosure and a beamsplitter module.