Abstract: A wavefront-sensing device for measuring ocular aberrations includes, among other things, a retinal illumination component and a wavefront imaging component (e.g., a microlens array for a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor). The retinal illumination component includes a laser source and a fixed collimating lens. In one embodiment, an improved device has a beam path between the retinal illumination component and the patient's eye containing no refracting, diffracting, or phase altering components for focusing the illumination beam on the retina. In another embodiment, the retinal illumination component provides a beam having a diameter on the retina that is smaller than the diffraction limit of the wavefront imaging component over a refractive focus range of the patient's eye of between about −12D to +6D.

Abstract: A wavefront sensor for measuring ocular aberrations includes a calibration test component and comparative calibration measurement information stored in the device to insure that the device is properly calibrated for reliable aberration measurement. Wavefront calibration, focusing calibration, and retinal illumination level monitoring are contemplated calibration measurements. An optional interlock function prevents diagnostic/therapeutic operation of the aberrometer if it is out of calibration or unsafe for use. A method for calibrating an aberrometer is described.

Abstract: A wavefront-sensing device for measuring ocular aberrations includes, among other things, a retinal illumination component and a wavefront imaging component (e.g., a microlens array for a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor). The retinal illumination component includes a laser source and a fixed collimating lens. In one embodiment, an improved device has a beam path between the retinal illumination component and the patient's eye containing no refracting, diffracting, or phase altering components for focusing the illumination beam on the retina. In another embodiment, the retinal illumination component provides a beam having a diameter on the retina that is smaller than the diffraction limit of the wavefront imaging component over a refractive focus range of the patient's eye of between about −12D to +6D.

Abstract: A wavefront sensor for measuring ocular aberrations includes a calibration test component and comparative calibration measurement information stored in the device to insure that the device is properly calibrated for reliable aberration measurement. Wavefront calibration, focusing calibration, and retinal illumination level monitoring are contemplated calibration measurements. An optional interlock function prevents diagnostic/therapeutic operation of the aberrometer if it is out of calibration or unsafe for use. A method for calibrating an aberrometer is described.

Abstract: A method and business architecture for providing vision correction to a patient involves obtaining wavefront aberration measurement information and, optionally, patient history data, ordering data, dispensing data, billing data, and other information, from the patient; transmitting the various data to respective appropriate platforms, e.g., transmitting the wavefront aberration information to a custom lens supply platform; producing a custom lens for the patient; and delivering a custom lens to the patient in a personalized manner. The method further involves fitting and measurement processes including in-situ lens shaping and custom manufacture of contact lenses, IOLs, inlays or onlays by laser ablation, lathing, casting/molding and machining. Business architectures according to the invention include segregating vision correction method steps into contractual, revenue generating business transactions.

Abstract: A stereoscope in which a digitally stored image can be seen through either or both eyepieces and compared with an object which can also be seen through either or both eyepieces. Digital images of objects can be stored. Both the images to be stored and the stored images can be digitally manipulated, i.e. magnified, rotated or warped.

Abstract: A stereomicroscope for comparing photographs is disclosed. The microscope includes a pair of complementary occluders with one occluder positioned in an intermediate image plane of each side of the stereo optical system, which also includes a conventional image rotator and zoom system to permit independent adjustment of the orientation and size of each image. The complementary occluders accentuate small differences between nearly identical photographs by providing a border at which an object present in only one photograph will appear or disappear as the two photographs are simultaneously scanned.

Abstract: A film accumulator having a fixed set of rollers and a moveable set of rollers to provide a serpentine path for accumulating film during photo interpretation is disclosed. The accumulator permits a substantially planer path for loading when the moveable rollers are located below the fixed rollers and a serpentine path for accumulating film when the moveable rollers are above the fixed rollers.

Abstract: In a reticle plate, a pattern is provided which contains a material that, when activated by a particular source of light, becomes highly visible in the field of view of the viewing instrument.

Abstract: A high intensity light table, for use with a stereomicroscope having movable rhomboid arms, has an illumination source and a reflector. The table also includes light diffusing members which are rotatably mounted thereto. The diffusing members have: (1) magnets affixed thereto which are responsive to movement of the rhomboid arms of the instrument; and (2) means therein for selectively passing a beam of high intensity illumination.

Abstract: A high intensity light table, for use with a stereomicroscope having movable rhomboid arms, has an illumination source and a reflector. The table also includes light diffusing members which are rotatably mounted thereto. The diffusing members have: (1) magnets affixed thereto which are responsive to movement of the rhomboid arms of the instrument; and (2) means therein for selectively passing a beam of high intensity illumination. An auxiliary reflector, which is rotatable about the source of illumination, may be employed to substantially increase the intensity of the beam of illumination.

Abstract: A stereo viewing system including a stereomicroscope, a film advance system and a high intensity illumination light table. The stereomicroscope includes rhomboid arms for positioning the optics over the film to be viewed. The light table includes a light transmitting cover, and a pair of intersecting reflectors, a pair of lamp assemblies and a diffuser, all combined to produce a diffused pair of intersecting annular rings of illumination. Each reflector is a section of a surface of revolution, preferably a section of a paraboloid. The lamp assemblies are mounted relative to the reflectors so that the filament of each lamp is, at least nominally, at the focal point of each parabolic reflector. The diffuser is, preferably, a pair of cylindrical shaped elements each of which is located between a lamp and its respective reflector and surrounds each lamp. The light table also includes a pair of mechanical dimmers and a cooling system.

Abstract: A stereo viewing system including a stereomicroscope, a film advance system and a high intensity illumination light table. The stereomicroscope includes rhomboid arms for positioning the optics over the film to be viewed. The light table includes a light transmitting cover, and a pair of intersecting reflectors, a pair of lamp assemblies and a diffuser, all combined to produce a diffused pair of intersecting annular rings of illumination. Each reflector is a section of a surface of revolution, preferably a section of a paraboloid. The lamp assemblies are mounted relative to the reflectors so that the filament of each lamp is, at least nominally, at the focal point of each parabolic reflector. The diffuser is, preferably, a pair of cylindrical shaped elements each of which is located between a lamp and its respective reflector and surrounds each lamp. The light table also includes a pair of mechanical dimmers and a cooling system.