Enhanced Ophthalmic Apparatus with Multi-Spectral Imaging and Adaptive Illumination
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved ophthalmic apparatus that captures high-quality images of a subject eye using multi-spectral imaging and adaptive illumination, enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original ophthalmic apparatus had limitations in capturing high-quality images of the subject eye, particularly in cases with varying reflectivity. This new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing multi-spectral imaging and adaptive illumination, ensuring more accurate and efficient ophthalmic examinations.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced ophthalmic apparatus comprises a multi-spectral image capturing unit, an adaptive illumination unit, and a processor. The multi-spectral image capturing unit captures images of the target part of the subject eye at multiple wavelengths, while the adaptive illumination unit adjusts the intensity and spectral characteristics of illumination based on the reflectivity of the target part. The processor optimizes the image capturing process based on the adjusted illumination and generates a composite image of the target part by combining the images captured at the multiple wavelengths. This results in higher-quality images and improved diagnostic accuracy.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces the combination of multi-spectral imaging and adaptive illumination, which is not present in the original patent. This combination enables the apparatus to capture high-quality images in a wider range of scenarios, making it a novel and non-obvious improvement over the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include using different types of image capturing units, such as hyperspectral or ultraviolet imaging. The adaptive illumination unit could also be replaced with other types of illumination adjustment mechanisms. Additionally, the apparatus could be integrated with machine learning algorithms for automated image analysis and diagnosis.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced ophthalmic apparatus has significant commercial potential in the medical industry, particularly in ophthalmology and optometry. It could be used in clinics, hospitals, and research institutions for more accurate and efficient ophthalmic examinations, leading to better patient outcomes and improved healthcare services.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B3/0025 |
| A | A61 | A61B3/0041 |
| A | A61 | A61B3/102 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Ophthalmic imaging technologies, specifically diagnostic imaging systems for eye examination, involving optical imaging, image processing, and medical device design with expertise in advanced optical capture techniques and medical instrumentation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or optical systems specialist with advanced degree, working knowledge of medical imaging technologies, familiarity with multi-wavelength imaging techniques, and understanding of image processing algorithms for medical diagnostics
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that extending the source patent's image capture methodology with multi-spectral imaging and adaptive illumination represents a predictable technological enhancement. The fundamental image capture framework from US 11857255 provides a clear foundation for implementing more sophisticated imaging techniques. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements using known optical engineering principles that would be readily conceived by a skilled practitioner seeking enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,255 |
|---|---|
| Title | Ophthalmic apparatus |
| Assignee(s) | Tomey Corporation |