When designing a compact ophthalmic imaging device to enhance usability for doctors, achieving precise and reliable imaging is crucial. These devices rely on a combination of optical components, reflective surfaces, and light paths, so carefully managing factors like reflection and refraction is essential.
During the development of this compact device, we encountered a significant issue: a halo light effect forming around the light point in the image. This unwanted light artefact was causing visual interference, affecting measurement accuracy, and compromising diagnosis clarity.
Root Cause Analysis
Upon investigation, we determined that an unintended reflection from a metal surface within the optical path caused the halo light effect. While metal is ideal for structural durability, its reflective properties create secondary beams of light, resulting in the halo effect.
Key Features of the Device:
- Adjustable slit light length and width for flexibility.
- Brightness control for optimized illumination.
- A compact design for ease of use in clinical settings.
These features make the device versatile but also introduce complexity in ensuring an accurate and uninterrupted optical path.
The Solution
To address the issue, our engineering team performed a detailed analysis of the optical path to identify reflective surfaces contributing to the halo light effect. Instead of a costly redesign of the metal structure, we applied a simple yet effective solution:
- The reflective surface causing the disturbance was coated with non-reflective black paint.
- This eliminated the unwanted reflection without compromising the structural integrity or requiring changes to the overall design.
The main optical path, which is made of stainless steel for durability and precision, remained intact. By isolating and addressing the problematic surface, we successfully removed the halo effect, ensuring a clear and accurate image for the device.
Lessons Learned
This experience highlights the importance of thorough diagnostics during the design phase. While advanced optical engineering is critical, simple solutions, like modifying surface finishes, can often address complex problems effectively. By incorporating this adjustment, we delivered a functional prototype without any delays or additional manufacturing costs.
AUTHOR
Dhanasekar R
Design Engineer, Srushty Global Solutions
Dhanasekar is a skilled design engineer specializing in CAD and 2D drafting. With expertise in technical drawing and project management, he excels at transforming concepts into detailed designs. Dhanasekar is dedicated to delivering high-quality solutions that meet project requirements and timelines, driving innovation in every endeavor.