Rotating Ophthalmologic Kiosk for Remote Eye Exams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current eye examination processes are time-consuming and inconvenient for patients, requiring multiple steps and often lengthy waits, making it difficult to integrate ophthalmologic examinations into daily life and follow up with future care.
Innovation Solution
An eye examination kiosk system that can be placed in various locations, equipped with rotatable and translatable ophthalmologic examination devices, allowing for quick and easy examinations, with results transmitted to a remote location for interpretation by a qualified physician, providing recommendations and follow-up care guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional eye examination processes are used in an ophthalmologist's office, then comprehensive examination and professional interpretation are provided, but the time required for examination and follow-up is significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The examination process is segmented into two distinct parts: (1) automated data collection at the kiosk using multiple examination devices, and (2) remote interpretation by qualified personnel. This separation allows the examination to be performed quickly at the kiosk while the interpretation phase occurs separately, eliminating waiting time for patients.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an automated kiosk as an intermediary between the patient and the qualified person. The kiosk performs initial examinations and transmits data remotely, acting as a mediator that enables quick data collection without requiring the patient to wait for professional interpretation in person.
2Reliability
If traditional eye examination processes are used, then professional ophthalmologic care is provided, but the convenience and accessibility for patients is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The kiosk is designed with multiple examination devices that can perform various eye examinations in one location. This multi-functional capability allows patients to receive comprehensive eye care at a single accessible location rather than requiring multiple visits or specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables patients to initiate and complete their examination at the kiosk with minimal staff intervention. The automated nature of the kiosk allows patients to receive examination services quickly without extensive scheduling or waiting, improving accessibility while maintaining care quality through remote professional review.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple examination devices are integrated into the kiosk, then comprehensive eye examination capability is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple examination devices are integrated within the kiosk structure in a nested arrangement, with each device housed within the main kiosk body. This nesting approach allows comprehensive examination capability while managing the physical complexity by organizing devices within a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple examination devices and functions into a single integrated kiosk unit. By combining various examination capabilities in one location, the system achieves comprehensive eye examination versatility while presenting a unified, manageable interface to patients.
Data Source
AI summary
The eye examination kiosk and method may comprise a structure for rotating and/or translating ophthalmologic examination devices such as an auto-refractor, an auto-keratometer, a corneal topographer, a fundus camera, an external photo camera, a perimeter, a lensmeter, a specular microscope, a retinal and external eye imager, an Optical Coherence Tomographer (OCT), or a non-contact tonometer into a position such that they may be used for examination of a patient. The kiosk outer shell may comprise an opening allowing the ophthalmologic examination equipment to perform eye examinations of a patient. Eye examination results are transmitted to a remote location where they are read by a physician, who transmits examination findings and recommendations for follow up treatment to the patient. The results may include the identity of qualified physicians who practice geographically near the patient, or who are qualified to treat a patient for a specific condition indication.


