Segmented Aperture Corneal Measurement Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional corneal measurement apparatuses face challenges in accurately positioning apertures to form slits and characterizing the posterior surface of the cornea, as they require physical contact and struggle to image the back surface effectively due to light passing through the anterior portion twice.
Innovation Solution
A corneal measurement apparatus that projects segmented slits of light onto the cornea, using a mask subsystem and imaging element to capture images, allowing for the calculation of light pathways to the posterior surface by identifying corners in the images, facilitating accurate characterization of the posterior surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single aperture is translated to project slits at multiple locations, then the apparatus can perform corneal measurements at different positions, but the positioning accuracy of the aperture deteriorates over time making accurate recreation of cornea difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The single aperture is divided into multiple segmented apertures, each capable of projecting slits to different locations on the cornea. This segmentation eliminates the need for translating a single aperture, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy while preserving the ability to measure multiple locations simultaneously or sequentially.
2Reliability
If a slit of light passes through the anterior portion of the cornea twice to image the back surface, then the posterior surface can be characterized, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates due to difficulty in characterizing the back surface
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented apertures create corresponding segmented slits on the cornea, with each segment producing distinct light pathways. By using at least two corners from different segments in the image, the system can calculate multiple independent light pathways to the posterior surface, improving measurement accuracy through redundant measurements and better geometric constraints.
3Measurement precision
If physical contact is used to measure corneal data, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces mechanical contact-based measurement systems with an optical remote sensing system. Light segments are projected onto the cornea and reflected light is captured by imaging sensors, eliminating the need for physical contact while maintaining measurement accuracy through optical path analysis.
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 corneal measurement, including posterior surface characterization, without physical contact, improving the accuracy and reliability of corneal representation for applications like contact lens prescription and surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination projection subsystem comprising a light source, a mask subsystem disposed in a path of light from the light source
Implementation Method 2
after the light in the slit has been scattered by the cornea, an image of the light is obtained
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An apparatus for measuring a subject's cornea having a mask subsystem disposed in a path of light from the light source, the mask subsystem configured to produce a segmented slits of the light.