Switchable Mirror Fundus Camera with OCT Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combination instruments for fundus camera and OCT measurements suffer from reduced signal strength due to dichroic mirror inefficiencies and rigid focusing settings, limiting flexibility and optimal recording quality for various retinal structures.
Innovation Solution
A device with a switchable mirror that allows sequential recording of fundus and OCT images, enabling independent focus settings for each modality and minimizing polarization effects, along with an intuitive operating concept for flexible and cost-effective operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If fundus camera recordings and OCT measurements are made simultaneously using dichroic mirrors, then less space is required and patient reseating is avoided, but the signal strength of both modalities is reduced due to division of maximum illumination intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements sequential recording where the fundus camera and OCT alternate in time to capture images during a single patient positioning. The system switches between modalities periodically, allowing each to receive full illumination intensity during its active phase while maintaining the benefit of single-position recording.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic switching between fundus camera and OCT modalities based on temporal sequencing. The system dynamically allocates the optical path to each modality in turn, allowing adaptive control of signal strength while maintaining combined functionality in a single instrument configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dichroic mirrors are used to separate wavelengths for multiple modalities, then simultaneous recording is possible, but separation efficiency reduces when wavelengths lie close together, further reducing signal intensity
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing temporal multiplexing where each modality operates in alternating time slots, the system eliminates the need for dichroic mirror separation. Each modality receives the full optical signal during its active phase, avoiding the signal loss associated with wavelength separation when spectral bands are close together.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the wavelength separation function by removing dichroic mirrors from the system. Instead of using optical filters to separate modalities spatially, the system separates them temporally, taking out the problematic optical component that caused signal intensity reduction.
3Ease of operation
If focus position is fixedly coupled to IR live image focus setting, then alignment is simplified, but optimal focusing cannot be achieved for each modality and retinal structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic focus adjustment where the focus position is independently optimized for each modality (fundus camera and OCT) rather than being fixedly coupled. The system dynamically adapts focus settings based on the active modality and target retinal structure, enabling precise focusing for each application while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local optimization of focus settings for each specific modality and retinal structure combination. Rather than a global fixed focus coupling, the system tailors focus parameters locally to the requirements of each modality (fundus photography vs. OCT) and each target structure (macula, optic nerve, etc.), ensuring optimal image quality for each measurement type.
4Reliability
If measurement procedures are strongly oriented toward predefined application problems, then diagnostic completeness is ensured, but flexibility is reduced and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic measurement procedure system that can adapt to different clinical scenarios. Rather than rigid predefined protocols, the system dynamically selects and combines modalities and parameters based on the specific diagnostic needs, allowing flexibility while maintaining diagnostic completeness through on-the-fly procedure customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal measurement framework that can handle multiple diagnostic scenarios through a single flexible system. The measurement procedures are designed to be multi-functional, capable of adapting to different application problems (glaucoma, macular disorders, etc.) by selectively activating appropriate modality combinations rather than requiring separate rigid protocols for each condition.
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
Improves the recording quality of individual modalities by allowing optimal focus settings for different retinal structures and increasing signal intensity through sequential recording and independent focus adjustments, while maintaining operational simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
a switchable mirror that allows sequential recording of fundus and OCT images
Implementation Method 2
the signals of the modalities are separated by a dichroic mirror
Data Source
AI summary
A fundus camera with an OCT measurement module, in which, after the focusing objective, a mirror switches the light to be detected either to the OCT measurement module or an image detector. This design also renders it possible to carry out a method for improved focusing in order to improve the recording quality of the individual modalities. Furthermore, the multimodal measuring instrument distinguishes itself by an operating concept according to the invention. Such combination instruments are advantageous in that, as a result of the reduction from two instruments to one, less space is required than in the case of two separate instruments. Furthermore, reseating of the patient is avoided if recordings or measurements of different modalities should be made for one and the same patient, as a result of which the procedures in the medical practices and clinics can be influenced positively.