Ophthalmic UBM Scanner with Overhead Fixation Target
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ophthalmic ultrasound bio-microscopy (UBM) technologies face challenges in accurately positioning intraocular lenses (IOLs) due to variability in human eye morphology and involuntary eye movements during scans, leading to potential complications such as cataract formation and optical errors.
Innovation Solution
An ophthalmic UBM apparatus that uses a scanner with a single or paired UBM probes, combined with an overhead fixation target and motorized height adjustment, to acquire vertically spaced UBM scans and construct computerized 3D models of anterior segments, minimizing errors through gaze stability and incremental height adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single-probe UBM scanning is used, then the device complexity is low and ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision and reliability of IOL positioning are insufficient due to eye movement artifacts and morphological variability
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning process is segmented into multiple passes with different probe positions (first and second vertical positions) and multiple scan directions. This segmentation allows acquisition of comprehensive anterior segment data at different depths and angles, improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through systematic data collection
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-plane scanning to three-dimensional scanning by adding vertical position dimension. The probe scans at multiple vertical positions (first position for anterior chamber, second position for posterior chamber) to capture complete anterior segment morphology, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
2Measurement precision
If multiple scan positions and directions are used to account for eye morphology variability, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases due to multiple scanning passes
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation target is positioned overhead before scanning begins, and the patient is instructed to maintain fixation throughout the procedure. This preliminary action stabilizes the eye and reduces movements during scanning, improving measurement precision without significantly increasing examination time
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning process maintains continuous useful action by using overlapping scan patterns and continuous probe movement between vertical positions. This ensures complete coverage of the anterior segment while minimizing gaps and reducing total scanning time, balancing measurement precision with time efficiency
3Measurement precision
If higher frequency UBM probes (>80 MHz) are used for superficial imaging, then measurement precision for superficial structures improves, but penetration depth is reduced limiting posterior chamber imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging task is segmented into two depth zones: anterior chamber imaging using higher frequency probes for superficial structure resolution, and posterior chamber imaging using lower frequency probes for deeper penetration. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by matching probe frequency to imaging depth requirements
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the anterior segment are imaged with different probe frequencies optimized for their specific depth requirements. The anterior chamber receives high-frequency imaging for detailed superficial structure visualization, while the posterior chamber receives low-frequency imaging for adequate penetration, applying local quality to each imaging zone
4Measurement precision
If manual probe manipulation is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision and consistency are reduced due to operator variability
Solution Approach 1:
An articulated arm with positioning mechanisms serves as an intermediary between the operator and the probe. This intermediary provides motorized or semi-automated positioning control, improving scan consistency and measurement precision while maintaining operational simplicity through intuitive control interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
Manual probe manipulation is partially replaced with motorized positioning systems and automated scanning sequences. The mechanical system performs precise positioning and probe movement, reducing operator variability and improving measurement consistency while maintaining ease of operation through programmable scan paths
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
This approach enhances the accuracy of IOL positioning by reducing outlier scans and improving the resolution of 3D models, thereby minimizing complications and optimizing IOL placement.
Implementation Method 1
UBM probes typically operate either at 35 MHz frequency or 50 MHz frequency for anterior segment imaging purposes
Data Source
AI summary
Ophthalmic Ultrasound Bio-Microscope (UBM) apparatus for eye examinations of a human subject in a supine position and fixating the gaze of his examined eye on an illuminated overhead fixation target. The ophthalmic UBM apparatus has a vertical UBM examination centerline on which overhead fixation target is located therealong and a UBM scanner with a UBM probe directed towards an examined eye at a known spatial position with respect to the overhead fixation target for acquisition of UBM scans of fixated examined eyes.