Topography Module for Distance-Independent Keratometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmological devices face challenges in achieving precise distance-independent keratometry measurements, which limits the detection of corneal surface deviations and affects the accuracy of intraocular lens selection, due to the complexity of projecting light patterns and the need for additional distance measurement systems.
Innovation Solution
A topography module for ophthalmological devices that generates luminous patterns and is integrated into the beam path, allowing for distance-independent keratometric and topographic measurements without requiring precise distance determination, using a disk-shaped module with diffusing inhomogeneities or opto-electronic coatings for pattern generation, and a control unit for evaluating reflected images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional Placido ring systems are used for keratometry measurements, then distance-dependent measurement precision is achieved, but additional distance measurement systems and complex positioning mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a telecentric lens as an intermediary optical element between the light source and the cornea. This lens creates a telecentric beam where the principal rays are parallel to the optical axis, eliminating angular dependence on object distance. The telecentric lens acts as a mediator that transforms the measurement system from distance-dependent to distance-independent, allowing accurate keratometry measurements without requiring complex distance measurement systems or positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the beam by using a telecentric lens to create a beam with specific angular characteristics. By adjusting the lens parameters (focal length, aperture) and light source positioning, the system achieves a telecentric configuration where the beam angle remains constant regardless of object distance. This parameter change enables distance-independent measurements while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If distance-independent measurement systems are implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The telecentric lens serves multiple functions simultaneously: it creates the telecentric beam for distance-independent measurement, acts as the primary optical element for focusing light on the cornea, and provides the reference surface for measurement. By making this single optical element multi-functional, the patent achieves distance-independent measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The telecentric lens configuration is self-adjusting in nature. The optical geometry automatically ensures that rays remain parallel to the optical axis regardless of object distance, eliminating the need for external distance measurement systems or active positioning mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the telecentric geometry to maintain measurement accuracy without additional complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex light pattern projection is used for topography, then measurement capability is improved, but technical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light pattern into discrete Placido rings that are projected concentrically on the cornea. Each ring can be independently controlled and detected, allowing the system to handle complex topographic measurements by breaking down the overall pattern into manageable segments. This segmentation enables versatile topography measurement while reducing the complexity of pattern generation and processing.
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 topographic measurements with reduced technical complexity, improving the accuracy of corneal surface analysis and intraocular lens selection by eliminating the need for distance-dependent measurement systems, suitable for existing devices including 6-point keratometers.
Implementation Method 1
the cornea is illuminated with structures, e.g. individual light structures or Placido ring systems, and the resulting images are viewed with conventional optical imaging systems
Data Source
AI summary
A module for ophthalmological devices which enables ophthalmological devices to carry out keratometry and topography measurements of the eye. The proposed topography module is provided for ophthalmological devices with a distance-independent keratometer. The topography module, which is used to generate the luminous pattern, is arranged in a fixed or moveable manner in the beam path between the ophthalmological device and the eye. A control unit is provided to control the topography module for generating luminous patterns. The provided evaluation unit is also suitable to carry out keratometric as well as topographic evaluations of the reflection images of an eye, captured and transmitted by the detection unit. The invention enables ophthalmological devices, which are equipped with a distance-independent keratometer, to carry out additional topographical measurements on the eye.