阅读说明：本技术 测量仪器的对准装置 (Alignment device for measuring instrument ) 是由 M·撒克拉 安蒂·贾廷恩 卡蒂·斯特兰纽斯 梅特西·哈帕莱恩 于 2019-09-04 设计创作，主要内容包括：本公开是一种测量仪器(102)的对准装置(100)。该对准装置包括壳体(104)；光学部件(106,202,302,606),该光学部件具有在平行于期望对准的方向上的主轴(204,304)；第一光源(108,206,306,620),该第一光源被定位在距光学部件的第一距离S1处和距主轴的第一高度h1处；第二光源(110,208,308,622),该第二光源被定位在距光学部件的第二距离S2处和距主轴的第二高度h2处；以及角挡板装置(112,210,312,612),该角挡板装置被布置在光学部件与第一光源之间和光学部件与第二光源之间。壳体、光学部件和角挡板装置被布置成沿主轴在大于d1’的距离处阻挡第一光源的可见度；以及沿主轴在小于d2的距离处阻挡第二光源的可见度,其中,d2小于d1’。(The present disclosure is an alignment apparatus (100) of a measurement instrument (102). The alignment device includes a housing (104); an optical component (106, 202, 302, 606) having a principal axis (204, 304) in a direction parallel to a desired alignment; a first light source (108, 206, 306, 620) positioned at a first distance S1 from the optical component and at a first height h1 from the principal axis; a second light source (110, 208, 308, 622) positioned at a second distance S2 from the optical component and at a second height h2 from the spindle; and an angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) disposed between the optical component and the first light source and between the optical component and the second light source. The housing, the optical components and the angle baffle device are arranged to block visibility of the first light source at a distance along the principal axis greater than d 1'; and blocking visibility of the second light source at a distance along the major axis that is less than d2, wherein d2 is less than d 1'.)

1. An alignment apparatus (100) of a measuring instrument (102), the alignment apparatus comprising:

-a housing (104);

-an optical component (106, 202, 302, 606) having a principal axis (204, 304) in a direction parallel to a desired alignment, the optical component being configured such that a user's eye is aligned with the principal axis of the optical component;

-a first light source (108, 206, 306, 620) positioned at a first distance S1 from the optical component and at a first height h1 from the spindle;

-a second light source (110, 208, 308, 622) positioned at a second distance S2 from the optical component and at a second height h2 from the spindle; and

-an angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612),

wherein the optical component comprises a focal point, wherein the first and second light sources are positioned between the optical component and the focal point; and

wherein the housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device are arranged to:

-blocking the visibility of the first light source at a distance along the main axis greater than d 1'; and

-blocking visibility of the second light source at a distance along the main axis that is less than d2, wherein d2 is less than d 1';

wherein d 1' and d2 are distances from the optical component.

2. The alignment device (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (104), the optical component (106, 202, 302, 606) and the angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) are arranged to block visibility of the second light source (110, 208, 308, 622) along the main axis (204, 304) at a distance greater than d2', wherein d2' is greater than d1 '.

3. The alignment device (100) of claim 2, further comprising a third light source arranged at a third distance S3 from the optical component (106, 202, 302, 606) and at a third height h3 from the main axis (204, 304), wherein the housing (104), the optical component and the angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) are arranged to block visibility of the third light source at a distance less than d3 along the main axis, wherein d3 is greater than d1 'and less than d 2'.

4. The alignment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first, second and optionally third light sources is arranged to provide light of a different color.

5. The alignment device (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first, second and optional third light sources is a blinking light source.

6. The alignment device (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first, second and optional third light sources is a circular light source.

7. The alignment device (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first, second and optionally third light sources is realized by a light emitter and a light guide.

8. The alignment device (100) of claim 7, wherein the light emitter is a light emitting diode.

9. The alignment device (100) of claim 7 or 8, wherein the light guide is one of a circular light guide, a triangular light guide, an elliptical light guide, a square light guide, a linear light guide.

10. The alignment device (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) is arranged between the optical component (106, 202, 302, 606) and the first light source and between the optical component and the second light source.

11. The alignment device (100) of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the optical component (106, 202, 302, 606) is arranged between the angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) and the first light source and between the angle baffle device and the second light source.

12. The alignment device (100) of any of the preceding claims 1 to 10, wherein the angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) is an angle baffle disc.

13. The alignment device (100) of any of the preceding claims 1 to 9 or 11, wherein the angle baffle device (112, 210, 312, 612) is a support structure or housing.

14. A surveying instrument (102) comprising an alignment arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The measurement instrument (102) of claim 14, wherein the measurement instrument is an instrument for measuring intraocular pressure.

16. The measurement instrument (102) of claim 15, wherein the measurement instrument comprises a probe configured to be ejected toward an eye to measure the intraocular pressure.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to optics and, more particularly, to alignment apparatus for a measurement instrument.

Background

The eye is one of the most sensitive parts of the human body and requires extreme care and precautions. However, even with such extreme care and precautionary measures, the eye often suffers from various diseases due to various factors such as aging, contamination, accidental damage, and the like. In this case, the eye is subjected to an optometric and/or ophthalmologic procedure, such as a retinal examination, tonometry, ophthalmologic surgery, or the like, for examination and appropriate treatment. Such optometry and ophthalmologic procedures are performed using a measuring instrument. Furthermore, measurement instruments used in optometry and ophthalmic procedures require a desired alignment with respect to the eye to obtain accurate results.

Currently, the desired alignment of the eye with the measuring instrument is achieved by manually moving the instrument and/or by changing the position of the eye. The instrument and/or eye are moved in directions toward or away from each other to achieve the desired alignment. Many measuring instruments are hand-held and require the individual to achieve the desired alignment himself. Alternatively, the measuring instrument is associated with the support and moved based on feedback from an individual to achieve the desired alignment.

However, the alignment apparatus (i.e., procedure) of the measuring instruments currently in use faces several challenges. Such devices are not user-friendly because the device requires multiple feedback (i.e., inputs) and manual effort from an individual. In addition, feedback is prone to error and can lead to misalignment of the instrument. Furthermore, such alignment means are time consuming and inefficient and lead to delays and substantially inaccurate results. Furthermore, such alignment devices do not satisfactorily ensure the desired alignment. In other words, self-alignment of the measuring instrument is difficult.

Therefore, in light of the above discussion, there is a need to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages associated with conventional alignment devices for measuring instruments.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure seeks to provide an alignment apparatus for a measurement instrument. The present disclosure also seeks to provide a measuring instrument comprising an alignment device. The present disclosure seeks to provide a solution to the existing problem of providing a manual time-consuming process of aligning a user's eye with a measurement instrument. It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that at least partly overcomes the problems encountered in the prior art and provides an easy to implement, efficient, robust, faster alignment device to achieve a desired alignment with a measurement instrument.

In one aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an alignment apparatus of a measuring instrument, the alignment apparatus including:

-a housing;

-an optical component having a principal axis in a direction parallel to the desired alignment, the optical component being configured to align the user's eye with the principal axis of the optical component;

-a first light source positioned at a first distance S1 from the optical component and at a first height h1 from the spindle;

-a second light source positioned at a second distance S2 from the optical component and at a second height h2 from the spindle; and

-an angle baffle means for the angle of rotation,

wherein the optical component comprises a focal point, wherein the first and second light sources are positioned between the optical component and the focal point; and

wherein the housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device are arranged to:

-blocking the visibility of the first light source at a distance along the main axis greater than d 1'; and

-blocking the visibility of the second light source at a distance along the main axis which is less than d2, wherein d2 is less than d 1';

where d 1' and d2 are distances from the optical component.

In another aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a surveying instrument comprising an alignment device.

Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate or at least partially solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art and enable the provision of a effortless, substantially accurate, robust and efficient alignment arrangement to achieve a desired alignment of a user with a measuring instrument.

Other aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the drawings and from the detailed description of illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction with the appended claims.

It is to be understood that the features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various different combinations without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Drawings

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the disclosure, there is shown in the drawings exemplary constructions of the disclosure. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the drawings are not drawn to scale. Wherever possible, like elements are denoted by the same reference numerals.

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an alignment apparatus of a measurement instrument according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an implementation of an alignment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of an alignment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

4A, 4B, and 4C are exemplary operations of an alignment device relative to a user's eye, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 5A, 5B, and 4C are example operations of an alignment device relative to a user's eye, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; and

fig. 6A and 6B are schematic diagrams of an implementation of an alignment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

In the drawings, underlined reference numerals are used to denote items in which the underlined reference numerals are located or items adjacent to the underlined reference numerals. The non-underlined reference numeral refers to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined reference numeral to the item. When a reference number is not underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the underlined reference number is used to identify the generic item to which the arrow points.

Detailed Description

The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the disclosure and the manner in which the disclosure may be practiced. Although a few modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other embodiments for carrying out or carrying out the present disclosure are possible.

In one aspect, an alignment apparatus of a measuring instrument, the alignment apparatus comprising:

-a housing;

-an optical component having a principal axis in a direction parallel to the desired alignment, the optical component being configured to align the user's eye with the principal axis of the optical component;

-a first light source positioned at a first distance S1 from the optical component and at a first height h1 from the spindle;

-a second light source positioned at a second distance S2 from the optical component and at a second height h2 from the spindle; and

-an angle baffle means for the angle of rotation,

wherein the optical component comprises a focal point, wherein the first and second light sources are positioned between the optical component and the focal point; and

wherein the housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device are arranged to:

-blocking the visibility of the first light source at a distance along the main axis greater than d 1'; and

-blocking the visibility of the second light source at a distance along the main axis which is less than d2, wherein d2 is less than d 1';

where d 1' and d2 are distances from the optical component.

The present disclosure provides an alignment apparatus for achieving a desired alignment between a measurement instrument and a user. The alignment device disclosed herein provides an efficient, seamless, robust, faster, and optimized device to achieve the desired alignment. Furthermore, the alignment device disclosed herein is easy to implement. Additionally, the present disclosure may be implemented with existing optical and non-optical components. Furthermore, the alignment apparatus substantially reduces the dependence on user feedback to achieve a desired alignment between the measurement instrument and the user. Notably, the alignment device disclosed herein reduces the manual effort required by a user to achieve a desired alignment. Thus, the reduced need for feedback and manual effort by the user greatly reduces the likelihood of error in achieving the desired alignment. Furthermore, a surveying instrument comprising an alignment apparatus as disclosed in the present disclosure provides a method for achieving a desired alignment that is easy for a user to understand and implement.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the alignment device is configured to facilitate achieving a desired alignment of the measurement instrument with respect to a user. In particular, the desired alignment refers to a substantially accurate positioning of the user's eye relative to the measurement instrument for proper functioning of the measurement instrument. Notably, the alignment device facilitates substantially accurate positioning of the user's eye relative to the measurement instrument by adjusting at least one of: the viewing direction of the user, the distance of the user (specifically, the user's eyes) from the surveying instrument, the tilt angle of the user, and the vertical and horizontal alignment of the user's eyes.

Further, a measurement instrument refers to a device operable to measure parameters of the eye, view images and/or objects, analyze light waves, and the like. In one example, the measurement instrument is operable to measure intraocular pressure, i.e., the measurement instrument is an instrument for measuring intraocular pressure. Further, the user may be an entity (e.g., a person, an instrument, a processing device, etc.) that requires output from a measurement instrument for tasks such as ophthalmic surgery, pressure measurement, etc. The user needs to make the desired alignment with the measuring instrument for the correct functioning of the measuring instrument. In particular, proper functioning of a measurement instrument relates to the ability of the measurement instrument to perform specific tasks such as measuring parameters of the eye, viewing images, analyzing light waves, etc., and provide accurate output to a user. The user needs to be accurately positioned relative to the surveying instrument to obtain the correct output of the task performed by the surveying instrument. Furthermore, the user uses the alignment device to achieve the desired alignment with the measurement instrument.

The optical component has a principal axis in a direction parallel to the desired alignment, i.e. the principal axis of the optical component is parallel to the optical axis of the user's eye. Thus, the optical component is configured such that the user's eye is aligned with the main axis of the optical component when the measurement instrument is used.

The present alignment device may be connected to a measuring instrument such that the main axis of the optical element coincides with the relevant axis of the measuring instrument. For example, in the case where the measurement instrument is a tonometer, the main axis of the optical element coincides with the ejection direction (axis) of the tonometer probe. The alignment means may be a detachable or an integral part of the measuring instrument.

Optionally, the alignment device is operably coupled with the measurement instrument by a support device. The support means is a cylindrical or cubical structure providing support for the alignment means.

Alternatively, the alignment device is permanently connected to the measuring instrument and the alignment device cannot be detached from the measuring instrument. In another example, the alignment device may be removably coupled to the measurement instrument, so the alignment device is removable. In this case, the detachable coupling of the alignment appliance to the measuring instrument enables the alignment appliance to be connected to and used with another measuring instrument.

Throughout this disclosure, the term "alignment device" refers to a device associated with a measurement instrument. The alignment device includes a plurality of optical and non-optical components for achieving the desired alignment. The precise positioning of the measuring instrument and the user's eye relative to each other provides the desired alignment between the measuring instrument and the user's eye.

As previously mentioned, the alignment device of the surveying instrument comprises a housing. In addition, the housing is configured to house optical and non-optical components of the alignment device. The housing is further configured to retain components of the alignment device at respective positions within the alignment device. In addition, the housing provides protection for the alignment device from external interference. Furthermore, the housing is also configured to protect the components of the alignment device from damage caused by external causes, such as accidental damage. The housing has a first end facing the user's eye and a second end facing the measurement instrument.

Optionally, the body of the housing is essentially light blocking or opaque. The body of the housing may be made of a metal or non-metal material. In addition, the housing has a hollow and regular geometric shape, such as a cube, sphere, etc. Alternatively, the housing has an irregular geometry.

The alignment device includes an optical component. The optical component is a refractive medium through which light can pass. An optical component, which is a refractive medium, changes the path of light passing through the optical component. Further, an optical lens is positioned at the first end of the housing. In addition, the optical lens has a principal axis (i.e., optical axis) in a direction parallel to the desired alignment. The principal axis refers to an axis passing through the optical center (i.e., geometric center) of the optic and connecting the two centers of curvature of the optic.

Furthermore, the alignment device comprises a first light source and a second light source. The first light source and the second light source are configured to emit light towards the optical component. The first light source is positioned a first distance S1 from the optic and a first height h1 from the spindle. A housing surrounds the first light source within a hollow structure of the housing. In addition, the first light source is positioned toward the second end of the housing. This positioning of the first light source and the optical component causes light from the first light source to be projected onto and through the optical component.

Further, the alignment device includes a second light source, wherein the second light source is positioned at a second distance S2 from the optical component and a second height h2 from the spindle. In addition, the second light source is positioned toward the second end of the housing. This positioning of the second light source and the optical component causes light from the second light source to be projected onto and through the optical component.

Optionally, the first light source and the second light source are positioned at a height h1 and a height h2, respectively, above the spindle. Alternatively, optionally, the first and second light sources are positioned below the primary axis.

Optionally, the first distance S1 and the second distance S2 are equal. Thus, the first light source and the second light source are positioned at equal distances from the optical component.

It should be appreciated that the first height h1 and the second height h2 are not equal. In other words, the first and second light sources are positioned at different heights with respect to each other. It is noted that since the first height h1 and the second height h2 are not equal, neither of the first light source nor the second light source blocks the visibility of the other light sources. Thus, the visibility of the first and second light sources enables the alignment device to function properly. Specifically, the first height h1 is less than or greater than the second height h 2. However, throughout this disclosure, for simplicity and clarity, the first height h1 is considered to be greater than the second height h 2.

Optionally, the alignment device further comprises a third light source arranged at a distance S3 from the optical component and at a third height h3 from the principal axis. The housing further surrounds the third light source. In addition, a third light source is positioned toward the second end of the housing. This positioning of the third light source and the optical component causes light from the third light source to be projected onto and through the optical component.

Optionally, the third light source is positioned in any one of the following positions: above the first light source and the second light source, below the first light source and the second light source, or between the first light source and the second light source.

Optionally, at least one of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source is a circular light source. The first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source are in the form of a ring, a disc. In addition, the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source are positioned in a sequential order. In this alternative embodiment, the height (h1, h2, h3) corresponds to the radius of the circular light source relative to the major axis. I.e. the radius of the first circular light source is h1, the radius of the second circular light source is h2 and the radius of the third circular light source is h 3.

Further optionally, each of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source is arranged to provide light of a different color. The different colors of each of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source provide a unique identification for the light sources. Furthermore, the different colors of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source enable a user to more easily identify the light source from any one of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source. In one example, the first light source may emit blue light, the second light source may emit green light, and the third light source may emit yellow light.

Optionally, at least one of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source is a blinking light source. In addition, the flashing of any of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source enables the user to identify the correct light source. Advantageously, such blinking of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source enables a desired alignment to be achieved more easily and faster.

More optionally, the first light source, the second light source and optionally the third light source are realized by a light emitter and a light guide. The light emitter is a light source configured to emit at least one light ray towards the optical component. In addition, the light emitter is associated with a switch configured to change its state (on/off). Further, the light emitter is connected to a power source configured to provide power to the light emitter for operation of the light emitter. In one example, the light emitters are light emitting diodes. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are dual-lead semiconductor light sources. Advantageously, such a high brightness of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source enables a visually impaired user to identify the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source.

Furthermore, optionally, a light emitter is associated with the light guide, which enables normal operation of the first light source, the second light source and optionally the third light source. In addition, the light guide is configured to guide light from the light emitter to the optical component. The light guide prevents early scattering of light from the light emitter. In one example, the light guide is one of a circular light guide, a triangular light guide, an elliptical light guide, a square light guide, a linear light guide. The shape of the light guide associated with the light emitter may be selected based on the requirements of a user of the aforementioned measuring instrument. In addition, the light guide is operable to control a travel path of light emitted from the light emitter toward the optical component.

Optionally, the optical component is a lens, such as a converging lens, a diverging lens, a combined lens, a fresnel lens, or the like. The optical component has an optical center at a geometric center of the optical component. In addition, the optical component has a principal axis passing through an optical center of the optical component. Furthermore, the main axis of the optical component comprises at least one focal point on the optical component. Furthermore, the optical component forms virtual images of the first light source, the second light source and optionally the third light source based on the position of the optical component relative to the at least one focal point. It is to be noted that the virtual image formed by the lens relates to an image formed when the light rays from the first light source and the second light source do not intersect but appear to intersect when extended backward. These formed images are inherently distinct.

It should be understood that the optical component is any lens operable to create virtual images of the first and second light sources. However, throughout the disclosure, the optical component is assumed to be a converging lens for simplicity and understanding.

It should be understood that throughout this disclosure, "viewing a first light source" refers to viewing a virtual image of the first light source through the optical component, and "viewing a second light source" refers to viewing a virtual image of the second light source through the optical component.

Optionally, the first distance S1 of the first light source and the second distance S2 of the second light source are less than the distance between the optical center and the focal point of the optical component. In addition, the first and second distances S1 and S2 may vary according to the type of optical component. Specifically, the positions of the first light source and the second light source are varied based on the characteristics of the optical member for generating the virtual image.

Optionally, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical component is a converging lens. The converging lens is operable to produce a virtual image when an object is placed between the focal point and the optical center. The converging lens is configured by applying a thin lens formula (i.e., lens equation). Specifically, the thin lens formula provides that the sum of the reciprocal of the object distance and the reciprocal of the image distance is equal to the reciprocal of the focal length, where the focal length refers to the distance between the optical center of an optical component and the focal point of the optical component. As previously described, the first and second light sources are positioned between the optical center and the focal point of the optical component. Thus, the optical component creates a virtual image of the first and second light sources behind the focal point. A virtual image of the first light source may be seen by a user through the optical component. The virtual image of the first light source is visible up to a distance d1 'from the optical center along the principal axis, the distance d 1' being the distance from the optical component. Similarly, a virtual image of the second light source may be seen by the user through the optical component. The virtual image of the second light source is visible after a distance d2 along the principal axis through the optic until a distance d2', where distance d2 is the distance from the optic. Notably, the user views virtual images of the first and second light sources from the first end of the housing when viewed through the optical component.

The optical component comprises a focal point, wherein the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source are positioned between the optical component and the focal point. The focal point (i.e., focus) of the optical component is located on the principal axis. It should be understood that the first, second, and third distances S1, S2, and S3 are less than the distance between the optical center and the focal point of the optical component. In particular, the distance between the optical center and the focal point of the optical component forms the focal length of the optical component. Notably, virtual images of the first light source, the second light source, and the optional third light source are formed toward the second end of the housing. Thus, virtual images of the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source are visible to the user through the optical component. The technical effect of this is that such positioning of the first and second light sources between the optical component and the focal point facilitates a clear visualization of the light sources by the user, even when the user's eye is very close to the device. Furthermore, no blurring effect is produced. The blurring effect causes inaccuracies in the positioning of the measuring instrument relative to the eye of the user. If the measuring instrument is positioned inaccurately, the measuring device will produce erroneous results and may be harmful to the user. In fact, the positioning of the light source between the optical component and the focal point enables the measuring instrument to be positioned accurately with respect to the eye of the user.

As previously mentioned, the alignment device further comprises an angle baffle device. The corner baffle device is an opaque piece of metal or non-metal media. Furthermore, the angle baffle device is configured to block, pass and/or alter the path of light from the first light source, the second light source and the optional third light source.

Optionally, an angular baffle device is arranged between the optical component and the first light source and between the optical component and the second light source. Alternatively, the optical component is arranged between the angle baffle device and the first light source and between the angle baffle device and the second light source. In general, the angle baffle arrangement is arranged such that it can block the light path from the light source to the eyes of a user of the measuring instrument. Essentially, the angle baffles may be on either side of the optical component. In addition, if the optical component includes two or more lenses, an angular baffle may be disposed between the two lenses.

Optionally, the height of the angle baffle arrangement is less than the height of the optical component, the height of the angle baffle arrangement being such that a virtual image of the first, second and optional third light sources is visible. The corner baffle device comprises at least one of a circle, a rectangle and a polygon. The angle baffle means may be an angle baffle disc. The angle baffle device may also be another structural component disposed in the optical path between the one or more light sources and the user's eye. As one example, a portion of the housing may be used as an angle baffle device. Alternatively/additionally, the support structure may be used as an angle baffle device.

Alternatively, optionally, the height of the corner baffle arrangement is equal to or greater than the height of the optical component. In this case, the corner baffle arrangement has a cutout which allows light emitted from the first light source, the second light source and optionally the third light source to pass through. In addition, such cut-outs on the angle block device create a pattern of light that is viewed by the user through the optical components. In one example, a user may view a virtual image of a particular light pattern used to achieve a desired alignment through an alignment device.

Optionally, the alignment device comprises a probe connected to the support structure. A support structure is operably connected with the housing and provides a support structure for the alignment device. In addition, a probe connected to the support structure is positioned outside the housing. Additionally, the probe is positioned behind the optical component, toward the first end of the housing. The probe is arranged to move in an anterior-posterior direction within the support structure for measuring a characteristic of the user's eye. In an exemplary embodiment, before, during and/or after measuring the impact, the probe is arranged to strike (impact) the user's eye and move the probe. The measurement results are analyzed to obtain intraocular pressure. In the measurement example, the user's eye needs to be properly aligned and maintained at a proper distance relative to the measurement instrument (and thus relative to the probe). In further embodiments, the support structure (or a portion of the support structure) used to connect the probes may be used as an angle baffle device. In another exemplary embodiment, a water pulse may be provided toward the eye of the user, for example, instead of a probe, to measure a characteristic of the eye. In other examples, the measurement device is used to capture a picture of the eye/retina of the eye from the aligned distance. In such an example, the camera optics/camera may be connected to the support structure instead of the probe.

Optionally, the housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device are arranged to block visibility of the second light source along the principal axis at a distance greater than d2', wherein d2' is greater than d1 '. Until a distance d2', where the distance d2' is a finite distance, a virtual image of the second light source is visible. A distance greater than distance d2 and less than distance d2' forms a visibility range of the virtual image of the second light source, wherein the visibility range is arranged along the principal axis of the optical member.

It will be appreciated that the visibility ranges of the first and second light sources are not constant (i.e. fixed) and may vary depending on the requirements of the user and/or the use of the measuring instrument.

As previously mentioned, the optical component is positioned at the first end of the housing. In addition, the housing surrounds the corner baffle arrangement within the hollow structure of the housing. Furthermore, the housing has a structure compatible with the requirements of the measuring instrument and/or the user.

Furthermore, the housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device are arranged such that:

-blocking the visibility of the first light source at a distance along the main axis greater than d 1'; and

-blocking the visibility of the second light source at a distance along the main axis which is less than d2, wherein d2 is less than d 1'.

Notably, the structural design of the housing limits the viewing angle, tilt angle, etc. associated with the user for viewing through the optical components. The angle baffle device is configured such that the first light source is visible up to a distance d 1' on the principal axis. Moreover, the angle baffle device is configured such that the second light source is visible at a distance greater than the distance d2, wherein d2 is less than d 1'. Thus, at distances greater than d2 and less than d 1', the first and second light sources have overlapping visibility ranges.

Further, at distances greater than d 1', the first light is not visible, and at distances less than d2, the second light is not visible. In addition, d1 is less than d2 and d2 is less than d 1'. Thus, the first and second light sources are visible along the major axis at a distance greater than distance d2 and less than distance d 1'. In one example, the visibility of the first and second light sources indicates a desired alignment with the measurement instrument. In this example, only the visibility of the first light source indicates that the user is too close to the measurement instrument. Furthermore, only the visibility of the second light source indicates that the user is too far from the alignment device. In this case, the position of the measurement instrument and/or the user is changed to achieve the desired alignment.

Optionally, the distance to achieve the desired alignment is the operating distance of the measurement instrument. More optionally, the operating distances of different measuring instruments are different depending on the operation of the different measuring instruments and/or the requirements of the user to use the measuring instruments.

In one example, when only the first light is visible, the measurement instrument may have an operating distance for the desired alignment. In another example, when only the second light is visible, the measurement instrument may have an operating distance for the desired alignment.

In an exemplary embodiment, the alignment means of the measuring instrument may be realized with two light sources, in particular a first light source and a second light source. The optical component may be configured to form virtual images of the first and second light sources. A user of the measurement instrument may view virtual images of the first and second light sources through the optical component. In addition, the user can view virtual images of the first and second light sources only in the visibility range. Further, the angle baffle device is configured to restrict viewing of the first and second light sources through the optical component by blocking a viewing path of a user. The housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device may be arranged to block visibility of the first light source by the optical component at a distance greater than the distance d 1'. Additionally, the alignment device may enable the second light source to be visible at distances greater than d2, where d2 is less than d 1'. The user may need to view virtual images of the first and second light sources to achieve the desired alignment. Thus, the overlapping portions of the viewing areas of the first and second light sources may form the operating distance of the alignment means.

In another exemplary embodiment, the alignment means of the measuring instrument may be implemented with two colored light sources, in particular, the first colored light source may be red colored light and the second colored light source may be green colored light. The optical component may be configured to form virtual images of the first and second colored light sources. A user of the measurement instrument may view virtual images of the first and second colored light sources through the optical component. In addition, the user can view virtual images of the first and second color light sources only in the visibility range. Additionally, the housing, the optical components, and the angle baffle device may be arranged to block visibility of the first colored light source by the optical components at a distance greater than the distance d 1'. Further, the angle baffle device may be configured to block visibility of the second color light source at a distance greater than distance d2', where d2' is less than distance d1 '. The first and second colored light sources may not have any overlapping visibility ranges. Furthermore, there may be no light zones between the visibility ranges of the first and second colored light sources, wherein the first and second light sources are not visible. Thus, in any case, zero or any one of the first and second colored light sources may be visible to a user through the optical component. Additionally, the visibility of the second colored light source may indicate that the user is too far from the alignment device, and the visibility of the first colored light source may indicate that the user is too close to the alignment device. The matt areas between the visibility areas of the first and second colour light sources thus form an operating distance for correct functioning of the measuring instrument.

In one example, virtual images of the first and second light sources may appear to overlap or be invisible to the user. In such an example, the user may observe aberrations from the desired alignment.

Optionally, the overlap or invisibility of light within the operational distance indicates an aberration (i.e., deviation) from the desired alignment. In one example, when there is horizontal aberration, the second light source is partially viewed behind the upper portion of the first light source, and the user observes a non-light area between the first light source and the second light source. In another example, when there is vertical aberration, the second light source is partially viewed behind a side (i.e., left or right) portion of the first light source, and the user observes a non-light region between the first light source and the second light source.

In one example, when the desired alignment is achieved, virtual images of the first and second light sources are visible to the user through the optical component. In addition, the user observes non-light areas.

Optionally, the desired alignment is achieved with the first light source, the second light source and optionally a third light source. A virtual image of the third light source is created by the optical component behind the focal point. After a distance greater than distance d3 and until distance d 3', a virtual image of the third light source is visible. More optionally, the distance d 3' is finite.

Optionally, the housing, the optical component and the angle baffle device are arranged to block visibility of the third light source along the principal axis at a distance less than d3, wherein d3 is greater than d1 'and less than d 2'. The angular baffle arrangement enables the third light source to be visible within a range of visibility along the major axis. Below distance d3, the third light source is not visible. Additionally, the first light source, the second light source, and the optional third light source are visible at distances greater than d3 and less than d 2'. Distances greater than d3 and less than d2' are operating distances for a measuring instrument that includes a first light source, a second light source, and a third light source. However, the operation distance may be changed based on the operation of the measuring instrument and/or the user.

In one example, the operating distance may be the distance between d2 and d 1', where the first light source and the second light source are visible. In another example, the operating distance may be a distance visible only by the second light source.

In an exemplary embodiment, the alignment means of the measuring instrument may be realized with three light sources, in particular a first light source, a second light source and a third light source. The optical components of the alignment device may be configured to form virtual images of the first light source, the second light source and optionally the third light source. A user of the measurement instrument may view virtual images of the first, second and third colored light sources through the optical component. In addition, the user may view virtual images of the first, second, and third light sources only within the visibility range. Further, the housing, the optical component, and the angle baffle device are arranged to restrict viewing of the first and second light sources through the optical component by blocking a viewing path of a user. In particular, the visibility of the first light source may be blocked at a distance greater than the distance d 1'. In addition, the visibility of the second light source may be blocked by the optical component at a distance less than d2 and greater than d2', where d2 is less than d 1' and d1 'is less than d 2'. Thus, the first light source and the second light source have overlapping viewing areas. Further, the optical shutter disk is configured such that the third light source is visible at a distance greater than d3, where d3 is greater than d 2'. The user may need to view a virtual image of the second light source to achieve the desired alignment. Thus, a distance greater than d 1' and less than d3, including only the visibility range of the second light source, may form the operating distance of the alignment device.

Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a surveying instrument comprising the alignment device. The measuring instrument is configured to achieve a desired alignment by the alignment device. In particular, the alignment device is operatively coupled to the measuring instrument. Optionally, the position of the measurement instrument and/or the user is changed to achieve the desired alignment.

The present disclosure relates to a method of aligning a measuring instrument using an alignment device, the method comprising adjusting a visibility range of a first light source until a first distance S1 from an optical component. The method of aligning a measuring instrument using the alignment device further includes adjusting the visibility range of the second light source starting from a second distance S2 from the optical component, the second distance S2 being less than the first distance S1. Furthermore, the first and second light sources are used to arrange the measuring instrument to achieve a desired distance of the user's eye from the measuring instrument. In addition, the first and second light sources are used to adjust the horizontal and/or vertical position of the eye to achieve the desired alignment.

Furthermore, the present disclosure provides a surveying instrument comprising an alignment device as described above. Optionally, the measurement instrument is an instrument for measuring intraocular pressure. Further, optionally, the measurement instrument comprises a probe configured to be ejected towards the eye to measure intraocular pressure.

Detailed description of the drawings

Referring to fig. 1, a schematic diagram of an alignment apparatus 100 of a measurement instrument 102 is shown, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The alignment device 100 includes a housing 104. The alignment device 100 includes an optical component 106 having a major axis in a direction parallel to the desired alignment. The alignment device 100 includes a first light source 108 and a second light source 110. The first light source 108 is positioned at a first distance S1 from the optical component 106 and the second light source 110 is positioned at a second distance S2 from the optical component 106. The first light source 108 and the second light source 110 are arranged to provide light to the optical component 106. The alignment device 100 includes an angle baffle device 112 disposed between the optical component 106 and the first light source 108 and between the optical component 106 and the second light source 110. The alignment device includes a support structure. The support structure includes an inner support structure portion 114 and an outer support structure portion 118. An optional probe 116 is arranged to move in an anterior-posterior direction within the inner support structure 114 and the outer support structure 118 to measure characteristics of the eye 120.

Fig. 1 is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It should be understood that the specific designations for the alignment device 100 are provided as examples and should not be construed to limit the alignment device 100 to a particular number, type, or arrangement of optical components, light sources, and angle baffle devices. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that there are numerous variations, alternatives, and modifications to the embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring to fig. 2, a schematic diagram of an implementation of an alignment apparatus (e.g., alignment apparatus 100 of fig. 1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the alignment device includes an optical component 202 having a principal axis 204 in a direction parallel to the desired alignment. Further, the first light source 206 is positioned at a first height h1 from the primary axis 204. Additionally, the second light source 208 is positioned at a second height h2 from the primary axis 204. First and second light sources 206, 208 are positioned between optical component 202 and focal point F of optical component 202 at distances S1 and S2, respectively, from optical component 202. In the figure, S1 and S2 are equal. Furthermore, an angle baffle device 210 is arranged between the optical component 202 and the first light source 206 and between the optical component 202 and the second light source 208.

It should be appreciated that light from first light source 206 passes through optical component 202 and creates virtual image 212 of first light source 206. Similarly, light from the second light source 208 passes through the optical component 202 and creates a virtual image 214 of the second light source 208. Further, the housing (e.g., housing 104 shown in fig. 1), the optical component 202, and the angle baffle device 210 are arranged to block visibility of the first light source 206 at a distance along the primary axis 204 that is greater than the distance d 1'. Further, the housing, the optical component 202 and the angle baffle device 210 are arranged to block visibility of the second light source 208 along the principal axis 204 at a distance less than d 2.

For purposes of illustration, the first line marking 216 extending from the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 to the principal axis 204 shows a distance d1 'until a distance d 1' the first light source 206 is visible. Similarly, a second line marker 218 extending from the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 to the principal axis 204 shows a distance d2 after which the second light source 208 is visible after a distance d 2.

Fig. 2 is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It should be understood that the specific designations for the embodiments of the alignment devices are provided as examples and should not be construed to limit the alignment devices to a particular number, type or arrangement of optical components, light sources and angle baffle devices. Further, in fig. 2, the first and second light sources 206, 208 are considered to be positioned at equal distances from the optical component 202. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that there are numerous variations, alternatives, and modifications to the embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring to fig. 3, a schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of an alignment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the alignment device includes an optical component 302 having a principal axis 304 in a direction parallel to the desired alignment. Further, the first light source 306 is positioned at a first height h1 (not shown) from the primary axis 304. In addition, the second light source 308 is positioned at a second height h2 (not shown) from the primary axis 304. Further, the third light source 310 is positioned at a third height h3 (not shown) from the primary axis 304. First light source 306, second light source 308, and third light source 310 are positioned between optical component 302 and focal point F of optical component 302. Furthermore, an angular baffle device 312 is arranged between the optical component 302 and the first light source 306, the optical component 302 and the second light source 308, and between the optical component 302 and the third light source 310.

It should be appreciated that light from the first light source 306 passes through the optical component 302 and creates a virtual image 314 of the first light source 306. Similarly, light from the second light source 308 passes through the optical component 302 and creates a virtual image 316 of the second light source 308. Also, light from the third light source 310 passes through the optical member 302 and creates a virtual image 318 of the third light source 310. Further, the housing (e.g., housing 104 shown in fig. 1), the optical component 302, and the angle baffle device 312 are arranged to block visibility of the first light source 306 at a distance along the primary axis 304 that is greater than the distance d 1'. Further, the housing, the optical component 302, and the angle blocker 312 are arranged to block visibility of the second light source 308 along the primary axis 304 at a distance less than d2 and greater than d 2'. Further, the housing, the optical component 302 and the angle baffle device 312 are arranged to block visibility of the third light source 310 at a distance less than d 3.

For purposes of illustration, the first line marking 320 extending from the virtual image 314 of the first light source 306 to the principal axis 304 shows a distance d1 'until the distance d 1' the first light source 306 is visible. Similarly, second line markers 322 and third line markers 324 extending from virtual image 316 of second light source 308 to primary axis 304 show distances d2 and d2', respectively, after distance d2, second light source 308 is visible, and until distance d2', second light source 308 is visible. Also, a fourth line marker 326 extending from the virtual image 318 of the third light source 310 to the principal axis 304 shows a distance d3, after which distance d3 the third light source 310 is visible.

Referring to fig. 4A, 4B, and 4C, exemplary operation of an alignment device (e.g., alignment device 100 of fig. 1) relative to a user's eye according to embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. The alignment means is implemented in a similar manner as described in fig. 2. Notably, the user's eye is aligned with a principal axis of the optic (e.g., principal axis 204 of optic 202 of FIG. 2). The virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 (of fig. 2) and the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 (of fig. 2) are each optionally centered on a probe 402 (e.g., probe 116 of fig. 1). Further, the alignment device is configured to facilitate achieving a desired alignment between the measurement instrument 102 and the user's eye (in particular, a desired distance of the eye from the measurement instrument 102).

In fig. 4A, the user's eye is positioned at a distance greater than d 1'. Thus, only the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 is visible to the eye of the user through the optical component.

In fig. 4B, the user's eye is positioned at a distance greater than d2 and less than d 1'. Thus, the virtual images 212, 214 of the first and second light sources 206, 208, respectively, are visible to the user's eye through the optical component.

In fig. 4C, the user's eye is positioned at a distance less than d 2. Thus, only the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 is visible to the eye of the user through the optical component.

It will be appreciated that when the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 and the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 are visible to the user's eye, respectively (as shown in fig. 4B), the user's eye is positioned at a desired distance relative to the measurement instrument. However, when only the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 is visible to the user's eye (as shown in fig. 4A), the user is positioned at a distance relative to the measurement instrument. Similarly, when only the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 is visible to the user's eye (as shown in fig. 4C), the user is positioned proximally with respect to the measurement instrument.

Referring to fig. 5A, 5B, and 5C, exemplary operation of an alignment device (e.g., alignment device 100 of fig. 1) relative to a user's eye according to embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. The alignment means is implemented in a similar manner as described in fig. 2. Notably, the user's eye is positioned at a desired distance from a measurement instrument (e.g., measurement instrument 102 of fig. 1). The virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 (of fig. 2) and the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 (of fig. 2) are each optionally centered on a probe 402 (e.g., probe 116 of fig. 1). Further, the alignment device is configured to facilitate achieving a desired alignment between the measurement instrument 102 and the user's eye (in particular, a desired vertical and horizontal alignment of the eye relative to the measurement instrument 102).

In fig. 5A, the user's eye is horizontally misaligned relative to the measurement instrument 102. Thus, the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 partially overlaps the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 in the horizontal direction.

In fig. 5B, the user's eye is in the desired vertical and horizontal alignment with respect to the measurement instrument 102. Thus, the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 and the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 are approximately centered.

In fig. 5C, the user's eye is vertically misaligned relative to the measurement instrument 102. Thus, the virtual image 214 of the second light source 208 partially overlaps the virtual image 212 of the first light source 206 in the vertical direction.

Fig. 6A is a perspective schematic view of an alignment device as seen from the front, and fig. 6B is a perspective schematic view of an alignment device as seen from the rear, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The alignment device includes an optical component 606 having a major axis in a direction parallel to the desired alignment. The alignment device includes a first light source 620, a second light source 622, and a third light source 624. In an example, the light source is a circular light source. The light sources are arranged at equal distances from the optical component 606. The circular light source includes a circular light guide and an LED (not shown) that provides light to the corresponding light guide. The first circular light guide of the first light source 620 has a radius h 1. The second circular light guide of second light source 622 has a radius h 2. The third circular light guide of the third light source 624 has a radius h 3. Radius h1 is less than radius h 2. Radius h2 is less than radius h 3. The light guides emit light of different colors (or alternatively, flash in a dedicated pattern, for example, to enable a person to identify between the light guides). Light sources 620, 622, 624 and optical component 606 are arranged around inner support structure 614. In the given example, the internal support structure is a hollow tube. When a measurement instrument having an alignment device is used to measure characteristics of the eye, optional probe 616 is configured to pop up toward the user's eye. The probe 616 is partially covered by an outer support structure 618. The probe 616 is ejected/controlled/held by an optional coil arrangement 630 disposed around the inner support structure 614. An angle baffle device 612 is disposed between the optical component 606 and the light source. The example angle baffle device 612 of fig. 6A and 6B is an angle baffle disk.

Modifications may be made to the foregoing embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from the scope thereof, as defined by the following claims. The terms "comprising," "including," "incorporating," "having," and the like, as used in describing and claiming the present disclosure, are intended to be interpreted in a non-exclusive manner, i.e., to allow for items, components, or elements that are not expressly described. References to the singular are also to be construed to relate to the plural.