Retinal Image Refraction Measurement Using Pupil-Shifted Light Beams

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optometry methods are cumbersome, expensive, and often unavailable in developing countries, making it difficult to accurately determine optical parameters for eye prescriptions.

Innovation Solution

A method involving displaying multiple sharp images on the retina using light beams focused at different pupil positions, adapting image parameters based on user feedback, and determining optical parameters such as dioptric power and astigmatism using a head-mounted device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional prescription measurement devices are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprescription measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement device complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a head-mounted display device to project virtual images onto the user's retina, creating an optical copy of the target patterns. This allows prescription measurement without requiring complex traditional refraction equipment, as the virtual images serve as substitutes for physical test charts and lenses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces mechanical refraction measurement devices with a digital/optical system that uses a camera, display device, and image processing algorithms. The system captures images of the user's retina through the eye and uses computational methods to determine prescription parameters, eliminating the need for manual lens testing and mechanical adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If traditional prescription measurement methods are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprescription measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system displays multiple images with different parameters (such as varying orientations, sizes, or positions) in sequence to the user's retina. By periodically changing the image parameters and capturing the user's visual responses at different stages, the system efficiently gathers data needed for accurate prescription determination in a single brief measurement session.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement process continues uninterrupted by maintaining continuous display of images on the retina and continuous capture of visual responses. The system processes images and adjusts parameters in real-time without requiring breaks or repositioning, allowing the complete prescription measurement to be completed in one continuous action sequence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Measurement precision

If traditional prescription measurement devices are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprescription measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement operation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The head-mounted display device performs the measurement process automatically by projecting images, capturing retinal responses, and computing prescription parameters without requiring manual intervention from trained personnel. The system self-calibrates and self-measures, making the process as simple as having the user wear the device and follow basic instructions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The head-mounted display device serves multiple functions: it acts as both the prescription measurement instrument and the display medium for test images. The same device that presents visual targets to the retina also captures the optical response and processes the data, eliminating the need for separate measurement instruments and simplifying the overall measurement process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 quick, non-invasive, and cost-effective determination of optical parameters, allowing for customized image display on the retina to correct visual defects.

Implementation Method 1

two light beams focused substantially in the plane of a pupil of the eye at at least two different positions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight focusing: Focusing

Data Source

PatentUS12502062B2Method for determining at least one parameter of an eye of a person

Publication Date: 2025.12.23 ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL(COMPAGNIE GENERALE D OPTIQUE)

AI summary

A method for determining at least one optical parameter of an eye of a person comprising displaying at least two sharp images on a retina of the eye of the person, the at least two images comprising a target and being carried by two light beams focused substantially in the plane of a pupil of the eye at at least two different positions, adapting a parameter of the target in each image based on feedback of the person relative to the change of the parameter of the target in the image, and determining the at least one optical parameter of the person's eye based on the adaption of the parameter of the target in each image.