Dimensioning highly resolved retinal coherent imaging system embeddable in a contact lens.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Ophthalmology
• Optical Physics

Background:

• Scleral contact lenses offer a platform for advanced ophthalmic devices.
• Retinal imaging systems are crucial for diagnosing and treating visual impairments.
• Peripheral retinal stimulation is a target for vision restoration strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To dimension, design, implement, and test a coherent optical imaging system for scleral contact lens integration.
• To evaluate the system's capability to project monochromatic patterns onto the retinal periphery.
• To assess manufacturability and optical performance for potential clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Development of a coherent optical imaging system utilizing an annular light guide (ALG).
• Testing of two optical configurations: in-line and folded.
• Analysis of imaging resolution, quality, and manufacturability.
• Evaluation of source characteristics and encapsulation engineering.

Main Results:

• Successful dimensioning, design, implementation, and performance testing of the optical imaging system.
• Demonstration of monochromatic pattern projection onto the retinal periphery (< 1 mm²).
• Comparative analysis of in-line and folded configurations regarding performance and manufacturability.

Conclusions:

• The developed coherent optical imaging system is suitable for scleral contact lens embedding.
• The system effectively projects patterns onto the retinal periphery while maintaining central vision.
• Key design choices and engineering considerations are crucial for successful encapsulation and performance.