Patent Description:
Despite the progress made in eye-imaging devices, there is a need in the art for improved methods and systems related to imaging of the eye.

<CIT> discloses a device for training in ophthalmic surgery, comprising a front head unit engaging with a face plate and a rear head unit engaging with the front head unit; a member for retaining a simulated eyeball, an eye socket portion; a thread for causing the eyeball to rotate; and a pedestal.

The present disclosure relates to an eye-imaging training apparatus, a system, and a method for training using an eye-imaging training apparatus. In particular, the present disclosure provides an eye-imaging training apparatus that provides a simulation for caregivers to learn various practices (e.g., retracting eyelids, calibrating and using eye-imaging cameras, etc.) that provides training to a caregiver, avoids harm to patients, and improves efficiency. Beneficially, the eye-imaging training apparatus can train caregivers to learn to properly align eye-imaging cameras and to practice imaging a moveable eyeball having numerous functionalities.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include an eye-imaging training apparatus. The eye-imaging training apparatus includes a housing including a front end and a rear end. The front end may be removably attached to the rear end to provide an interior volume of the housing. The apparatus also includes a first eye socket and a second eye socket formed on the front end of the housing. The apparatus also includes an eye structure disposed in each of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The eye structure may include an eyeball member and a fastening member, where the fastening member extends from a distal end of the eyeball member. The apparatus also includes an actuator assembly disposed in the interior volume of the housing. The actuator assembly may include a pivot member and a receiving member in communication with the pivot member. The receiving member may be configured to receive the fastening member of the eyeball structure. The pivot member is configured to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The apparatus also includes a base material disposed over at least the front end of the housing.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system of training a caregiver to perform eye imaging. The system of training includes providing an eye-imaging training apparatus. The eye-imaging training apparatus includes a housing including a front end and a rear end. The front end may be removably attached to the rear end to provide an interior volume of the housing. The apparatus also includes a first eye socket and a second eye socket formed on the front end of the housing. The apparatus also includes an eye structure disposed in each of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The eye structure may include an eyeball member and a fastening member, where the fastening member extends from a distal end of the eyeball member. The apparatus also includes an actuator assembly disposed in the interior volume of the housing. The actuator assembly may include a pivot member and a receiving member in communication with the pivot member. The receiving member may be configured to receive the fastening member of the eyeball structure. The pivot member is configured to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The apparatus also includes a base material disposed over at least the front end of the housing. The base material may include a pair of retractable eyelids configured to rest over the eyeball member disposed in the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The system may also include one or more speculum configured to retract the retractable eyelids.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method of training a caregiver to use an eye-imaging camera. The method includes providing an eye-imaging training apparatus. The eye-imaging training apparatus includes a housing including a front end and a rear end. The front end may be removably attached to the rear end to provide an interior volume of the housing. The apparatus also includes a first eye socket and a second eye socket formed on the front end of the housing. The apparatus also includes an eye structure disposed in each of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The eye structure may include an eyeball member and a fastening member, where the fastening member extends from a distal end of the eyeball member. The apparatus also includes an actuator assembly disposed in the interior volume of the housing. The actuator assembly may include a pivot member and a receiving member in communication with the pivot member. The receiving member may be configured to receive the fastening member of the eyeball structure. The pivot member is configured to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The apparatus also includes a base material disposed over at least the front end of the housing. The base material may include a pair of retractable eyelids configured to rest over the eyeball member disposed in the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The method also includes securing the eye-imaging training apparatus on a surface. The method also includes retracting one or more of the retractable eyelids. The method also includes providing an eye-imaging camera for imaging the eyeball member. The method also includes exerting an external force on the actuator assembly to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The method also includes tracking the eyeball member in the first eye socket and the second eye socket with the eye-imaging camera. The method also includes aligning the eye-imaging camera with the eyeball member in the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The method also includes imaging the eyeball member.

Numerous benefits are achieved by way of the present disclosure over conventional techniques. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an eye-imaging training apparatus that allows caregivers to train in a simulated experience. The eye-imaging training apparatus provides training and experience to be able to properly retract eyelids, calibrate and use eye-imaging cameras, and track the eyeball for eye imaging. The eye-imaging training apparatus provides a training tool that can help caregivers learn best practices for eye imaging. This can avoid potential injury to patients and can improve results from eye imaging tests that can lead to more accurate diagnosis. These and other embodiments of the disclosure, along with many of their advantages and features, are described in more detail in conjunction with the text below and attached figures.

The inventors have determined that imaging the eyes of patients, and particularly children and infants, is a very delicate and regimented process. This process demands adequate training and experience to be able to properly retract eyelids, calibrate and use various eye-imaging cameras, track the eyeball for eye-imaging, among other things. Yet, there is a severe lack of training tools that can help caregivers learn best practices for eye imaging. This can lead to potential injury to patients and inaccurate results from eye imaging tests that can lead to potential misdiagnosis.

Therefore, devices and methods are needed for training caregivers that simulate or mimic natural and human-like eye movement for training purposes. Additionally, there is a need for an eye-imaging training apparatus for training caregivers to obtain high quality images of the eye using effective techniques.

The present disclosure describes a number of embodiments related to an apparatus, system, and method for training caregivers to use equipment for any eye imaging modality. For example, the training apparatus can be used to train caregivers for ophthalmic imaging such as confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, optical coherence tomography, scanning laser polarimetry, and fluorescein angiography. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an eye-imaging training apparatus including an actuator to articulate one or more movable members (e.g., eyeball members). In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus provides a caregiver a training tool for practicing various eye-imaging techniques that simulate or mimic natural and animal-like eye movement. For example, the eye-imaging training apparatus may include an eyeball member that can move in multiple directions to simulate human-like eye movement. The eye-imaging training apparatus can train a caregiver to practice, for example, aligning an eye-imaging camera, calibrating the eye-imaging camera (e.g., determining the desired optical parameters), and retracting eyelids for eye-imaging. The present disclosure is also related to systems and methods for eye imaging using the eye-imaging training apparatus described herein.

As described above, the eye-imaging training apparatus described herein can provide a real-life model to practice various eye-imaging techniques. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus may include a housing resembling and having the shape of an animal (e.g., baby head). For example, the housing may include eye sockets for receiving an eye, a nose, a mouth, ear sockets for receiving ears. The eye-imaging training apparatus may include a base material that corresponds to the texture of skin that is disposed on a portion of the housing. In some embodiments, the base material adheres to a surface of the housing (e.g., the front face). The base material may include eyelids that are configured to fit over the eye sockets of the housing, a nose that is configured to fit over the nose region of the housing, and a mouth that is configured to fit over the nose region of the housing. The base material may include contoured features around the eyes, nose, mouth, other regions to provide a real-life appearance. In some embodiments, the base material is a silicone-based material.

In some embodiments, the housing may include one or more eye sockets configured to receive removable eye structures. The eye structures can be inserted into the eye sockets and coupled to an actuator assembly. For example, the eye structures may include a fastening member (e.g., an elongated pin) on a rear face of an eyeball member that can be coupled to an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly includes a first receiving member and a second receiving member. The first receiving member and the second receiving member are configured to receive the fastening members of the eye structures. The first receiving member and the second receiving member are each coupled to a mechanical actuator (e.g., levers or knobs) of the actuator assembly. In some embodiments, the mechanical actuator is configured to move the eyeball members in a desired XYZ direction in the eye sockets. For example, the mechanical actuator can be an ear structure that is coupled to one of the receiving members that is capable of being rotated or pushed to move the eye structures in a desired direction. In this way, a trainer can move the eye structures in the eye socket of the housing to mimic the movement of the eyes of an animal and a caregiver can practice aligning and imaging using an eye-imaging device. Additionally, a caregiver can practice using devices (e.g., a speculum) to retract the eyelids of the eye-imaging training apparatus.

The present disclosure also relates to an eye-imaging training apparatus including one or more eye structures that have multiple functionalities. For example, the eye structure may include an eyeball member including an electrically conductive substrate and one or more sensors to detect light. Based on the detected light from the sensors, a processor can send an electrical signal to an electrical pulse generator to provide an electrical pulse to the electrically conductive substrate. In some embodiments, the electrical pulse can correspond to electrical responses of the retina in response to light.

In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus may include a microfluidic network to deliver fluids to one or more regions of the eye-imaging training apparatus. In some embodiments, the eye structures of the eye-imaging training apparatus may include a plurality of channels of the microfluidic network. For example, the eyeball members of the eye structure can include channels that mimic the veins in an animal eye (e.g., animal eye). The microfluidic network may include a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) that pumps fluid throughout the eyeballs and to, for example, the pupils. The fluid can be a fluorescent dye (e.g., fluroxene). The eye-imaging training apparatus can include an inject port to supply a fluid to the microfluidic network.

<FIG> illustrates a front perspective view of an eye-imaging training apparatus according to some embodiments. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> includes a front end <NUM> and a rear end <NUM>. In some embodiments, the front end <NUM> and the rear end <NUM> of the housing are removably attached. As shown in <FIG>, the front end <NUM> includes a male engagement member <NUM> and the rear end <NUM> includes a female engagement member <NUM>. The female engagement member <NUM> disposed on the rear end <NUM> is configured to receive the male engagement member <NUM> of the front end <NUM>. The front end <NUM> and the rear end <NUM> can be removably attached by any suitable means to allow for access to the interior volume of the housing <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> can resemble and have a shape that corresponds to an animal. For example, the housing <NUM> can have the shape of a baby head and include features to resemble a baby's face. In this embodiment, the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> includes a base material <NUM> disposed over the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The base material <NUM> includes features that resemble the features of a baby's face. For example, the base material <NUM> includes eyelids <NUM>, a nose <NUM>, a mouth <NUM>, and a plurality of contour features <NUM>. In some embodiments, the contour features <NUM> correspond to creases between the mouth and nose, creases between the nose and eyes, and creases around the eyes to provide a real-life simulation of a baby face. The rear end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include a first ear <NUM> and a second ear <NUM> on each opposing side of the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> shows illustrates a dissembled view of the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> according to some embodiments. As shown in <FIG>, the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is detached from the rear end <NUM> and the base material <NUM> is removed from the front end <NUM>. In this embodiment, the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> includes a first eye socket <NUM> and a second eye socket <NUM> configured to receive a first eye structure <NUM> and a second eye structure <NUM>. The first eye socket <NUM> and the second eye socket <NUM> each comprise a concave receptacle to receive the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>, respectively. The first eye socket <NUM> and a second eye socket <NUM> each include an aperture <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> in each of the first eye socket <NUM> and the second eye socket <NUM> provides an access point to the interior volume of the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include a nose region <NUM> and a mouth region <NUM>, and the rear end <NUM> of the housing may include a first ear <NUM> and a second ear <NUM>. In this way, the housing resembles the appearance of a baby.

The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> includes a first eye structure <NUM> and a second eye structure <NUM>. The first eye structure <NUM> includes a first eyeball member <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM> includes a second eyeball member <NUM> and a fastening member <NUM>. In some embodiments, each of the eyeball members may resemble a human eye. For example, each of the each of the eyeball members may include portions resembling the sclera, the iris, the pupil, the cornea, the retina, the lens, optic nerves, and various blood vessels. In some embodiments, the blood vessels can be channels of a microfluidic network that is configured to carry a fluid. The fastening member <NUM> extends from the distal end of the first eyeball member <NUM>. The fastening member <NUM> can be an elongated pin that is configured to extend through the aperture <NUM> of the sockets and can be coupled to an actuator assembly.

As shown in <FIG>, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> may include a base material <NUM> that is disposed on the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base material <NUM> adheres to a surface of the housing. For example, the base material <NUM> may comprise a non-slip material that can adhere to the housing <NUM> via surface tension forces. The base material may include eyelids <NUM> that are configured to fit over the eyeball members of the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>. The eyelids <NUM> are configured to partially or completely cover the eyeball members. In this way, a caregiver can train using speculum to retract the eyelids of the base material <NUM> disposed on the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM>.

The base material <NUM> has a profile that corresponds to the front end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. For example, the base material <NUM> includes eyelids <NUM> configured to rest over the eyeball members, a nose <NUM> that is configured to fit over the nose region of the housing <NUM>, and a mouth <NUM> that is configured to fit over the mouth region of the housing <NUM>. The base material <NUM> may include contour features <NUM> around the eyes, nose, mouth, other regions to provide a real-life appearance. In some embodiments, the base material is a silicone-based material. In some embodiments, the base material can be disposed over the entire surface of the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base material can have a color resembling human skin. For example,.

<FIG> illustrates the internal structure of the housing of the eye-imaging training apparatus according to some embodiments. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> may include an actuator assembly <NUM> that is configured to engage (e.g., move) the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>. For example, a force can be exerted on the actuator assembly <NUM> to manipulate the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>. This action can force the eyeball members of the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM> to move in any direction within the eye socket of the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the actuator assembly <NUM> includes a first knob <NUM> and a second knob <NUM> disposed outside the housing <NUM>. The first knob <NUM> may be coupled to a first arm <NUM> and the second knob <NUM> may be coupled to a second arm <NUM>. Each of the first arm <NUM> and the second arm <NUM> extend from the knobs to the interior of the housing <NUM>. The first arm <NUM> and the second arm <NUM> each include a receiving member <NUM>. The receiving member <NUM> is configured to receive the fastening member <NUM> of the eyeball structures. In this way, a force can be exerted on the first knob <NUM> to move the first eye structure <NUM> and the second knob <NUM> to move the second eye structure <NUM>. The first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM> are configured to move along an X-axis, a Y-axis, and/or a Z-axis, with respect to a long axis of the eye-imaging training apparatus, based on the exerted force. For example, the first knob <NUM> and the second knob <NUM> can be rotated in any direction to translate the eyeball member along the X-axis. The first knob <NUM> and the second knob <NUM> can be pulled or pushed to translate the eyeball member along the Y-axis.

<FIG> illustrate the eye-imaging training apparatus described in <FIG><NUM> in use for training a caregiver. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> can be placed on a surface. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> is placed on a flat surface. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> can be secured on a surface. For example, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> can be secured to a table using fasteners or a person can hold the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> in place. As shown in <FIG>, a caregiver can use a speculum <NUM> to retract the first eyelid <NUM> covering the first eyeball member <NUM>. The caregiver can practice using the speculum <NUM> to retract the bottom portion of the first eyelid <NUM> and the top portion of the first eyelid <NUM> using the speculum <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the speculum <NUM> holding the top and bottom portions of the first eyelid <NUM> covering the first eyeball member <NUM> of the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> in an open position. After the speculum <NUM> is used to retract the first eyelid <NUM> covering the first eyeball member <NUM>, a second pair of speculum <NUM> can be used to retract the second eyelid <NUM> covering the second eyeball member <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a second pair of speculum <NUM> can retract the second eyelid <NUM> covering the second eyeball member <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a trainer exerting an external force on the first knob <NUM> and the second knob <NUM> of the actuator assembly, respectively, to move the eyeball members. As shown in the <FIG>, the first speculum <NUM> and the second speculum <NUM> each hold first eyelid <NUM> and the second eyelid <NUM> in an open position. In this configuration, a caregiver can view of each of the eyeball members of the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>. In this position, an individual (e.g., an instructor) can actuate the first knob <NUM> or second knob <NUM> to move the eyeball member within the eye socket of the eye-imaging training apparatus. For example, actuating the first knob <NUM> can move the eyeball member of the first eye structure <NUM> and actuating the second knob <NUM> can move the eyeball member of the second eye structure <NUM>. <FIG> shows the first knob <NUM> being manipulated to move the eyeball member of the first eye structure <NUM>. Similarly, <FIG> shows the second knob <NUM> can be manipulated to move the eyeball member of the second eye structure <NUM>. As the eyeball members move within the eye socket, a caregiver can practice tracking the eyeball members of the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM> with an eye-imaging camera and aligning the eye-imaging camera with a desired target in the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>. The caregiver can then practice imaging the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM> once the eye-imaging camera is aligned with the desired location of the first eye structure <NUM> and the second eye structure <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate perspective and side-perspective views, respectively, of another eye-imaging training apparatus. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> including a first part <NUM> and a second part <NUM>. The first part <NUM> can be removably attached to the second part <NUM>. The first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> are removably attached to provide access to the interior volume of the housing <NUM>. The first part <NUM> of the housing <NUM> includes a first eye socket <NUM> and a second eye socket <NUM> configured to receive an eye structure <NUM>. The first eye socket <NUM> and the second eye socket <NUM> each comprise a concave receptacle <NUM> to receive an eye structure <NUM>. The first part <NUM> may include a mouth region <NUM> and a nose region <NUM>. The second part <NUM> of the housing <NUM> includes a pair of ear structures <NUM> on opposing sides of the housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can resemble and have a shape that corresponds to a baby's face.

In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> includes a base material. The base material may comprise a silicone-based material. The silicone-based material may have a skin-like texture. The base material may include eyelids, a mouth, and a nose that corresponds to the first eye socket <NUM>, the second eye socket <NUM>, the mouth region <NUM>, and the nose region <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the interior volume of the housing <NUM> including an actuator assembly <NUM>. The actuator assembly <NUM> includes a top region <NUM> and a bottom region <NUM>. The top region <NUM> can be connected to the bottom region <NUM> via a connection member. For example, the top region <NUM> can be connected to the bottom region <NUM> via a hinge <NUM>. The top region <NUM> includes a first receiving member <NUM> and a second receiving member <NUM>. The first receiving member <NUM> and the second receiving member <NUM> are configured to receive a fastening member (e.g., a pin) from an eyeball structure. In this way, the eyeball structure can be coupled to the actuator assembly <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the bottom region <NUM> can be a unitary structure. The bottom region <NUM> region can include a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end may include ear structures <NUM>. The ear structures <NUM> may include gripping member <NUM>. The gripping member <NUM> can be used to manipulate the ear structures <NUM> to translate the eyeball members in the socket. For example, <FIG> shows a first eyeball structure <NUM> and a second eyeball structure <NUM>. Each of the first eyeball structure <NUM> and the second eyeball structure <NUM> includes a fastening member <NUM>. The fastening member <NUM> extends from the distal end of the eyeball member. The fastening member <NUM> can be an elongated pin that is configured to be coupled to the first receiving member <NUM> and the second receiving member <NUM> of the top region <NUM> of the actuator assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, actuating ear structures <NUM> acts on the fastening member <NUM> coupled to the receiving member to translate the eyeball members along an X-axis, a Y-axis, or a Z-axis, with respect to a long axis of the eye-imaging training apparatus. In some embodiments, a sensor could be disposed in the mouth of the model to detect dextrose or other suitable chemical. If a pacifier coated with dextrose is inserted in the mouth of the model, the sensor would detect the dextrose and cause the eyes to stop rotating. This would simulate the clinical practice of giving a neonate patient a pacifier dipped in dextrose to calm them and get the neonate to focus forward and stop rolling their eyes.

<FIG> provides another exemplary eye-imaging training apparatus. As discussed herein, the appearance and shape of the eye-imaging training apparatus can simulate a real-life animal. For example, <FIG> shows an eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> in the shape of and resembling a mouse. In some embodiments, a three-dimensional scan of an animal can be used to produce the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM>. For example, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> can be created based on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of a mouse to produce a real-life eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM>. In some embodiments, the scan can provide the basis for a 3D-printed eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM>. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> may include a pair of eyeball structures <NUM>. Each of the eyeball structures <NUM> may include a conical structure including an aperture <NUM> at a center region. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> is useful for training caregivers to align an eye-imaging camera with the eyeball structure <NUM>. For example, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> can be used to train a caregiver to align the eye-imaging camera to sight down the aperture of the eyeball structure <NUM>. The eyeball structure <NUM> can provide negative feedback if the eye-imaging camera is aligned with a side wall of the eyeball structure <NUM> rather than the aperture <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an eyeball structure of the eye-imaging training apparatus according to some embodiments. The eye-imaging training apparatus described herein may be utilized with any of the models described herein and can include an eyeball structure <NUM> including a microfluidic network <NUM>. For example, the microfluidic network <NUM> may include a plurality of channels <NUM> configured to receive a fluid. In some embodiments, one or more channels <NUM> are interconnected. The channels <NUM> can extend from a first end <NUM> of the eyeball structure <NUM> to a second end <NUM> of the eyeball structure <NUM> adjacent the iris <NUM>. The channels <NUM> can receive a fluid from a port <NUM> or via other channels. In some embodiments, the eyeball structure <NUM> includes a plurality of ports <NUM> for each channel <NUM>. In this way, fluid can be selectively controlled to each region of the microfluidic network <NUM> of the eyeball structure <NUM>. The channels <NUM> in the eyeball structure <NUM> can mimic the function of fluidically active veins. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus can include one or more injection ports to deliver a fluid to the eyeball structure <NUM>. The fluid can travel through the eye-imaging training apparatus to the microfluidic network <NUM> in the eyeball structures <NUM>. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus may include a pump to move fluid through the microfluidic network <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pump is configured to control the pressure of the fluid in the eyeball structure <NUM>. For example, the pump can provide additional fluid to the microfluidic network <NUM> to increase the pressure of the eyeball structure <NUM>, which can serve as an indicator of glaucoma.

In some embodiments, the eyeball structure <NUM> can include one or more membranes <NUM> disposed on the surface of the eyeball structure <NUM>. The membranes <NUM> may comprise a fluorescent material. In some embodiments, a portion of the membranes <NUM> may comprise a fluorescent material. In some embodiments, microfluidic network may include a static fluid.

The eye-imaging training apparatus including eyeball structures <NUM> can be useful for training individuals to analyze blood flow through the eye. For example, the eyeball structures <NUM> having a microfluidic network <NUM> can be used for training caregivers to conduct optical coherence tomography, Doppler imaging, and other eye-imaging techniques that can analyze blood flow in the eyes. Additionally, an eye-imaging training apparatus including an injection port allows caregivers to practice delivering fluids into the eye-imaging training apparatus. For example, a caregiver can practice injecting fluorescein into the eye-imaging training apparatus. As the fluorescein dye passes through the microfluidic network of the eye structure, photographs can be taken with an eye-imaging camera to record the blood flow to the retina. The fluorescein dye can travel through the microfluidic network and the caregiver can take images of the microfluidic network at specific time periods after injection. The photographs can reveal abnormal blood vessels or damage to the lining underneath the retina. Using the microfluidic network described herein, processes that simulate eye imaging for a fluorescein angiography can be performed. In some embodiments, specific channels of the microfluidic network can be closed such that caregivers can practice analyzing functioning and non-functioning channels in the eye. The eye-imaging training apparatus described herein can provide a standardized model for training calibration, alignment, and targeting. Since the devices described herein simulate processes observed in an eye, equipment, including cameras, can be calibrated and quality confirmed and operators can be trained using the devices described herein.

In some embodiments, the eyeball structure <NUM> may include an iris <NUM> including electronics. For example, the iris <NUM> may include one or more sensors, a processor in communication with the light sensors, and an expandable member in communication with the processor. In some embodiments, the sensors can be a light sensor. The light sensor can be configured to measure the amount of light contacting the eyeball structure. Based on the detected amount of light, the iris <NUM> can contract or expand similar to a human eye in response to light. For example, the processor can process information from the light sensor to expand or retract the expandable member.

In some embodiments, the microfluidic channels may comprise a material that is configured to retract or close. For example, a laser can be used to cinch or close one or more of the microfluidic channels to stop or prevent fluid flow in a specific channel. Thus, embodiments of the present invention can simulate the use of a laser to intentionally block veins. As an example, the laser could impinge on one of the microfluidic channels and the operator could verify that the microfluidic channel, simulating a vein, was closed (e.g., by melting) and that fluid no longer runs through it. In some embodiments, the microfluidic channels may include a valve in communication with one or more sensors. The sensors may be configured to detect a laser. When the sensor detects a laser, a signal can be sent to the valve to close the valve to prevent any fluid flow.

<FIG> provides another embodiment of the eyeball structure <NUM>. The eyeball structure <NUM> can include a plurality of layers <NUM>. The layers <NUM> may comprise a polymeric material. For example, the layers <NUM> can be a plurality of layered thin-films comprising plastic disposed at the first end <NUM> of the eyeball structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the layers <NUM> can simulate the tissue layers in the back end of a human or animal eye. A caregiver can train ablating the layers <NUM> of the eyeball structure <NUM> to simulate a corneal surface ablation procedure. In some embodiments, the eyeball structure <NUM> can include fibers or membranes. The fibers and membranes can resemble veins within a human or animal eye. For example, the eyeball structure <NUM> can include a plurality of fibers embedded within the eyeball member.

In some embodiments, the eyeball structure <NUM> may include a thread on the surface of the eyeball structure. The thread can comprise a fluorescent material. In some embodiments, the thread is a glow-in-the-dark material. The thread can provide a three-dimensional structure on the eyeball structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the eyeball structure <NUM> includes glow-in-the-dark fibers to resemble veins. The eyeball structure <NUM> can be disposable, which is suitable for surgical practice. In addition to fibers or threads resembling veins, other embodiments provide structures that simulate other physical structures that are important in the eye anatomy. As an example, larger structures like tumors are difficult to image because it is difficult to get the whole structure in focus at the same time. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention provide large structures that enable an operator to practice imaging of these large structures. Additionally structures that rise up into the vitreous fluids of the eye closer to the center are also useful for practice.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of an internal structure of an eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM>. The eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> may include electrical components that provide an electrical signal to the eyeball structure <NUM>. For example, the eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM> may include an electrical circuit that can deliver an electrical signal to the eyeball structure <NUM> in response to inputs from one or more sensors.

The housing <NUM> may include electrical components that are in communication with the eyeball structure <NUM>. For example, the housing <NUM> may include a power source <NUM>. In some embodiments, the power source <NUM> can be a rechargeable battery. The housing <NUM> may include a processor <NUM> and an electrical pulse generator <NUM> that are coupled to the power source <NUM>. The processor <NUM> can be configured to receive data from one or more sensors <NUM> disposed on the eyeball structure <NUM>. The processor <NUM> is configured to process the data from the one or more sensors <NUM> to provide an output to the electrical pulse generator <NUM>. For example, the sensors <NUM> can detect light on the eyeball structure <NUM>. The processor <NUM> is configured to process data received from the one or more sensors <NUM>. Based on the data from the sensors <NUM>, the processor <NUM> can send an output signal to the electrical pulse generator <NUM> to generate one or more electrical pulses.

The eyeball structure <NUM> includes one or more sensors <NUM>. The sensors <NUM> may be disposed on the surface of the eyeball structure <NUM> or in layers within the eyeball structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors <NUM> comprises a photodiode. The eyeball structure <NUM> may include wiring <NUM> to couple the sensors <NUM> to different components of the eyeball structure <NUM>. The eyeball structure <NUM> includes an electrically conductive substrate <NUM>. The electrically conductive substrate <NUM> may comprise a web of interconnected wiring. The electrically conductive substrate <NUM> may include one or more discrete regions <NUM>. The discrete regions <NUM> is configured to receive an electrical pulse. In some embodiments, the discrete regions <NUM> are configured to expand in response to an electrical pulse. The electrical pulse generator <NUM> can deliver an electrical pulse to one or more of the plurality of discrete regions <NUM> of the electrically conductive layer in response to a signal received from the processor <NUM>. This embodiment can simulate an electroretinography test which measures the electrical response of various cells in the retina.

<FIG> provides a flow diagram of a method of training a caregiver to use an eye-imaging camera <NUM>. The method includes providing an eye-imaging training apparatus <NUM>. The eye-imaging training apparatus may include a housing comprising a front end and a rear end. The front end of the housing can be removably attached to the rear end to provide an interior volume of the housing. The front end of the housing includes a first eye socket and a second eye socket formed. An eye structure is disposed in each of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The eye structure includes an eyeball member and a fastening member. The fastening member extends from a distal end of the eyeball member. The eye-imaging training apparatus includes an actuator assembly disposed in the interior volume of the housing. The actuator assembly includes a pivot member and a receiving member in communication with the pivot member. The receiving member is configured to receive the fastening member of the eyeball structure such that actuating the pivot member is configured to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket. The eye-imaging training apparatus includes a base material disposed over at least the front end of the housing. The base material includes a pair of retractable eyelids configured to rest over the eyeball member disposed in the first eye socket and the second eye socket.

The method includes securing the eye-imaging training apparatus on a surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus is placed on a flat surface. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus can be secured on the surface using a fastener (e.g., a belt). For example, the eye-imaging training apparatus can be secured to a table using fasteners or a person can hold the eye-imaging training apparatus in place for eye imaging.

The method includes retracting one or more of the retractable eyelids <NUM>. For example, method may include using a speculum to retract the eyelids of the eye-imaging training apparatus. The speculum can retract and hold the top and bottom portions of the eyelid covering the eyeball members of the eye-imaging training apparatus in an open position. In some embodiments, a first speculum is used to retract the eyelid covering the first eyeball member and a second pair of speculum can be used to retract the eyelid covering the second eyeball member. In this way, a caregiver can train using speculum to retract the eyelids of the eye-imaging training apparatus. The caregiver can practice using the speculum to retract the bottom portion of the eyelid and the top portion of the eyelid using the speculum.

The method includes providing an eye-imaging camera for imaging the eyeball member <NUM>. The eye-imaging camera can be any eye-imaging device. For example, the eye-imaging camera can be configured to perform intraoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT), confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, scanning laser polarimetry, or any other eye-imaging techniques.

The method includes exerting an external force on the actuator assembly to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket <NUM>. The eye-imaging training apparatus includes an actuator assembly that is configured to move the eye structures. For example, an external force can be exerted on the actuator assembly of the eye-imaging training apparatus to move the eyeball member. This action can force the eyeball members of the eye structures to move in any direction within the eye socket of the housing. For example, the actuator assembly can move the eyeball member in an.

The method includes tracking the eyeball member in the first eye socket and the second eye socket with the eye-imaging camera <NUM>. A caregiver can track the eyeball member of the eye-imaging training device with an eye-imaging camera. For example, as the eyeball member moves within the socket, a caregiver can practice tracking the eyeball member with the eye-imaging camera. The method includes aligning the eye-imaging camera with the eyeball member in the first eye socket and the second eye socket <NUM>. Once the camera is aligned, the method includes imaging the eyeball member <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus further includes a microfluidic network comprising a plurality of channels. The eyeball member may include a portion of the plurality of channels. The method may further include pumping a volume of fluid to the microfluidic network. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises a fluorescent dye. The method may include determining a time for the fluid to reach the channels disposed on the eyeball member. In some embodiments, the method also includes imaging the channels as fluid moves through the channels disposed in the eyeball member based on the determined time.

In some embodiments, the eyeball member of the eye-imaging training apparatus includes one or more sensors and an electrically conductive substrate. The electrically conductive substrate may include a plurality of discrete regions. In some embodiments, the eye-imaging training apparatus includes a power, a processor coupled to the power source, and a pulse generator in communication with the processor. The processor may be configured to process data received from the one or more sensors. The pulse generator may be configured to send an electrical pulse to one or more of the plurality of discrete regions of the electrically conductive substrate in response to a signal received from the processor.

In some embodiments, the method may include directing a light source at the eyeball member comprising the one or more sensors. The method may include processing, using the processor, data provided by the one or more sensors. The method may include sending an electrical pulse, using the pulse generator, to one or more of the plurality of discrete regions of the electrically conductive substrate in response to a signal received from the processor. The method may include imaging the eyeball member as the electrical pulse travels to one or more of the plurality of discrete regions.

It should be appreciated that the specific steps illustrated in <FIG> provide a particular method of attaching an apparatus to an eye-imaging camera according to some embodiments. Other sequences of steps may also be performed according to alternative embodiments. For example, alternative embodiments of the present invention may perform the steps outlined above in a different order. Moreover, the individual steps illustrated in <FIG> may include multiple sub-steps that may be performed in various sequences as appropriate to the individual step. Furthermore, additional steps may be added or removed depending on the particular applications. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations, modifications, and alternatives.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Claim 1:
An eye-imaging training apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) comprising a front end (<NUM>) and a rear end (<NUM>), wherein the front end is removably attached to the rear end to provide an interior volume of the housing;
a first eye socket (<NUM>) and a second eye socket (<NUM>) formed on the front end of the housing;
an eye structure (<NUM>, <NUM>) disposed in each of the first eye socket and the second eye socket, wherein the eye structure comprises an eyeball member (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a fastening member (<NUM>), wherein the fastening member extends from a distal end of the eyeball member;
an actuator assembly (<NUM>) disposed in the interior volume of the housing, and
a base material (<NUM>) disposed over at least the front end of the housing;
characterised by:
the actuator assembly comprising a pivot member and a receiving member in communication with the pivot member;
the receiving member being configured to receive the fastening member of the eye structure;
wherein actuating the pivot member is configured to move the eyeball member within at least one of the first eye socket and the second eye socket.