Variable Refractive Correction Optics for Visual Field Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current visual field testing methods using trial lenses are cumbersome, time-consuming, and prone to errors, reducing test reliability and patient comfort, while also slowing down clinical workflows due to refractive blur and rim artifacts.
Innovation Solution
A system with variable refractive correction optics, such as adjustable lens wheels, liquid lenses, or Alvarez lenses, integrated with visual field testing devices, automatically adjusts to correct refractive errors, reducing the need for multiple trial lenses and minimizing errors by calculating and applying the necessary refractive power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard ophthalmic trial lenses are used to correct refractive error, then refractive blur is reduced, but the testing process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic lens system that can automatically change its refractive power to match the patient's specific correction needs. The lens device transitions from static trial lenses to a dynamic, adjustable system that adapts to individual refractive requirements, eliminating the time-consuming process of manually selecting and exchanging multiple trial lenses while maintaining accurate refractive correction throughout the visual field test
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic refractive correction capabilities where the device itself performs the correction without requiring manual intervention. The lens device automatically determines and applies the appropriate refractive power based on the patient's needs, eliminating the need for operators to manually select and insert trial lenses, thereby reducing both time loss and potential for human error
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trial lenses are used to cover different refractive errors, then various patient needs are met, but device complexity and操作流程 complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal lens device that can perform multiple refractive correction functions within a single system. Rather than requiring separate trial lenses for different refractive conditions, the device incorporates the capability to adjust across the full range of refractive errors, providing multi-functionality that simplifies the overall system while maintaining versatility for accommodating diverse patient needs
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces a static collection of discrete trial lenses with a dynamic, continuously adjustable lens mechanism. This dynamic capability allows the single device to cover the entire spectrum of refractive errors that would otherwise require multiple fixed-power lenses, reducing device complexity while preserving adaptability across different patient conditions
3Reliability
If trial lenses are inserted into the line of vision, then refractive correction is achieved, but rim artifacts block parts of the visual field and reduce test accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful rim artifact effect from the correction system by eliminating the physical trial lens frame that causes blocking. The solution removes the source of interference (the trial lens rim) while preserving the essential function of refractive correction through an integrated lens design that does not introduce obstructive artifacts into the visual field
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the refractive correction function with the visual field testing system itself, rather than using separate trial lenses. By integrating the correction lens directly into the testing apparatus, the system achieves refractive correction without the need for additional components that would create rim artifacts, thereby combining multiple functions into a unified system that eliminates harmful side effects
4Ease of operation
If manual trial lens selection is performed, then refractive correction can be applied, but operator errors and mistakes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic refractive correction by determining the appropriate lens power and applying it without requiring manual operator selection. This self-service capability eliminates human error in lens selection while maintaining ease of operation, as the device autonomously handles the correction process that would otherwise require operator judgment and manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that allow it to determine the patient's refractive needs and automatically adjust the lens power accordingly. This feedback loop replaces manual trial-and-error selection with an automated control system that continuously monitors and adjusts the correction, thereby eliminating operator errors while maintaining operational simplicity
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 solution enhances the reliability and efficiency of visual field tests by providing precise refractive correction, improving patient comfort, and streamlining clinical workflows by reducing the complexity and time required for refractive error correction.
Implementation Method 1
variable refractive correction optics used in conjunction with a perimeter system. The refractive power of the lens device is adjustable in a manner to correct a patient's refractive error and provide the patient with a sharp image of a visual stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing variable refractive correction in a visual field testing device are presented. One embodiment of the variable refractive correction involves two or more aligned transmissive plates arranged to produce changes in refractive power by translation or rotation of the plates relative to each other. Several alternative designs for providing variable refractive correction are described. The refractive correction can be set manually or automatically based on knowledge of the refractive error of a specific patient and spherical and cylindrical refractive correction are possible. Additional lens systems can be used to extend the range of refractive correction to accommodate a larger patient population.