Static Mirror Retinal Projection Eliminates Moving Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for improving vision in eyes affected by Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) are unreliable due to moving parts that consume excessive energy and require bulky power sources, necessitating frequent recharging.
Innovation Solution
A device with optical means and a controllable processing optical projector that forms images and adjusts them based on eye rotation, using a static mirror and sensor to project images directly onto the retina without moving parts, enhancing reliability and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If moving elements are used to deflect image light beam, then the device can adjust image position according to eye rotation, but the reliability decreases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical deflection system (mirrors on rails with motors) with a static mirror mounted on the spectacles frame. The image position adjustment is achieved through optical projection control rather than mechanical movement, eliminating moving parts and improving reliability while reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the moving elements (mirrors on rails and their drive motors) from the system entirely. Instead of using these mechanical components to deflect light, the invention uses a fixed mirror combined with controlled optical projection to achieve the same functional result without any moving parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If moving elements with motors are used, then image deflection is achieved, but the energy consumption increases requiring bulky power sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for motors and mechanical deflection systems by using a static mirror configuration. Image deflection is achieved through optical projection control, which consumes minimal energy compared to mechanical systems, thereby removing the requirement for bulky power sources.
3Adaptability or versatility
If moving parts are used for image deflection, then dynamic adjustment is possible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all moving parts (mirrors on rails, motors, and associated mechanical components) from the system. The dynamic adjustment functionality is maintained through electronic control of the optical projector, which directs light beams to different positions on the static mirror, thereby simplifying the mechanical structure while preserving adaptability.
4Ease of operation
If mirrors on rails with motors are used, then image position can be controlled, but the device requires frequent recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the high-energy-consuming mechanical deflection system with a low-power optical projection system using a static mirror. This dramatically reduces energy consumption, eliminating the need for frequent recharging while maintaining full image position control capability through electronic means.
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 solution provides a simpler, more reliable, and energy-efficient means to improve vision by eliminating moving parts, allowing for better miniaturization and integration into wearable devices like glasses, suitable for AMD and various industrial, military, and civil applications.
Implementation Method 1
the projector being capable (i) of emitting the image at output 24 in the form of an image light beam 22, and (ii) of being controlled by a signal of determined values applied to a control input 21 so that the image light beam 22 is deflected according to a deflection angle depending on the value of the signal
Implementation Method 2
a mirror 30, and means 40-1, 40-2 for linking this mirror 30 to the orbit 2 and to the optical treatment projector 20 so that the optical axis 31 of the mirror 30 passes substantially constantly by the center of rotation 5 of the eye 1 and that this mirror 30 is on the optical path of the image light beam 22
Implementation Method 3
a sensor 50 for determining the rotation of the eye 1 with respect to its orbit 2, this sensor being capable of delivering at output 51 a signal representative of this rotation
Implementation Method 4
The device further comprises a sensor 50 for determining the rotation of the eye 1 with respect to its orbit 2... so that the image, reflected on the mirror is created directly on the retina of the eye
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A device for improving the vision of an eye of a human being includes optical elements for forming an image of a scene; a controllable projector having an input and mounted to co-operate with the optical elements, and suitable for outputting a beam; a mirror; elements for linking the mirror to the orbit and to the projector in such a manner that the optical axis of the mirror passes through the center of rotation of the eye and that the mirror is on the light path of the beam; a sensor for determining the rotation of the eye relative to its orbit, and elements for applying the signal output from the sensor to the input of the projector so as to cause the image light beam to be projected on a location of the mirror that is a function of the rotation of the eye in its orbit.