The reason most people visit their optician or ophthalmologist is to have their eyesight tested. However, more than just a routine eye exam can be evaluated when the doctor examines the eyes. A simple ophthalmic exam can reveal signs of systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, and in the future, the hope is it could even help to diagnose brain conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Even beyond the ability to assist in the diagnosis of certain diseases, using machine vision for other optical exams is becoming routine. For instance:
Corneal Mapping:
Corneal topography, or mapping, is a non-invasive medical imaging technique used for mapping the curvature of the cornea – the outer structure of the eye. The cornea is normally responsible for roughly 70% of the eyes’ refractive power. Because of that, its topography is critically important in determining the quality of ones’ vision. It measures thousands of points and creates a digital map. The 3D map is a valuable tool to doctors and can assist in the diagnosis and treatment of many different conditions, such as planning refractive surgery like LASIK, monitoring diseases of the cornea like keratoconus, or can assist in the proper fitting of contact lenses.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT):
An OCT scan, taken like a picture of the eye, is one of the latest advancements in imaging technology. Similar to an ultrasound, this diagnostic tool employs light rather than sound waves to achieve images with higher resolution of the structural layers of the back of the eye.
A scanning laser is used to analyze the layers of the retina and optic nerve for any signs of eye disease – similar to a CT scan of the eye. It works using light without radiation and is essential for early diagnosis of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other retinal diseases.
With the use of an OCT scan, the doctor is provided with color-coded, cross-sectional images of the retina. These detailed images are revolutionizing early detection and treatment of many eye conditions such as wet and dry age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal detachment and diabetic retinopathy.
Not only in the study of the eye, but in many other market sectors, high-quality imaging manufacturers are moving towards CMOS sensors in order to achieve higher resolutions and speeds. CMOS is quickly becoming equal or better than CCD quality.
We offer a wide variety of CMOS lens assemblies that are ideal for board and miniature camera applications. You can discuss your application with one of our engineers to determine which precision lens is right for your needs.