Integrated Retinoscopy Paddle with Axis Compass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retinoscopy paddles are limited in measuring oblique astigmatism angles, requiring the use of multiple devices and being time-consuming and inefficient for eye-care professionals.
Innovation Solution
An integrated retinoscopy paddle with an attachable axis compass that allows for quick, accurate, and convenient measurement of astigmatism angles, eliminating the need for separate devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate device (phoropter) is used to measure oblique astigmatism angles, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retinoscopy paddle and axis compass into a single integrated device. The paddle member contains both lens openings for retinoscopy and a compass with degree markings for measuring astigmatism angles, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated retinoscopy paddle serves multiple functions: it performs standard retinoscopy through lens openings and simultaneously measures oblique astigmatism angles using the integrated compass with degree markings. This multi-functional design allows one device to replace what previously required multiple separate instruments.
2Measurement precision
If a separate device is used to measure astigmatism angle, then measurement accuracy is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the compass directly into the retinoscopy paddle, the patent enables simultaneous or sequential measurement of refraction and astigmatism angle without switching devices. The compass with precise degree markings maintains measurement accuracy while the unified design eliminates time lost in device transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The compass is pre-integrated into the paddle member with degree markings positioned to align with the patient's eye during examination. This preliminary configuration ensures that measurement capability is immediately available without requiring additional setup or device positioning steps during the examination.
3Device complexity
If existing retinoscopy paddle is used without axis compass, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the axis compass directly into the retinoscopy paddle member, combining the simplicity of a single paddle device with the enhanced capability of measuring oblique astigmatism angles. The compass is incorporated as part of the paddle structure rather than as a separate attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The paddle member is designed to perform both standard retinoscopy through its lens openings and oblique astigmatism measurement through the integrated compass. This universal design maintains the ease of use associated with a simple paddle while expanding measurement capabilities to include angle determination.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved retinoscopy paddle with lens received through openings extending through the paddle member has an axis compass with indicia for assessing the range of refraction error and axis of astigmatism in the eyes of a patient as part of an optical examination. The axis compass may be formed on the paddle member or on a receptacle member adapted for operative receipt on as associated retinoscopy paddle. A method is provided for integrating a retinoscopy paddle and axis compass.