Description:1
FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule13)
1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION
A PORTABLE SLITLAMP ATTACHMENT DEVICE FOR IMAGING ANTERIOR CHAMBER ANGLE
2. APPLICANT
(i) NAME : GD Goenka University
(ii) NATIONALITY: INDIAN
(iii) ADDRESS : Sohna Gurugram Road, Sohna, Haryana, India,122103
(i) PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
COMPLETE
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
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A PORTABLE SLITLAMP ATTACHMENT DEVICE FOR IMAGING ANTERIOR CHAMBER ANGLE
TECHNICAL FIELD
[1] The present invention relates to a portable slit lamp attachment device for imaging anterior chamber angle. More particularly, it introduces a devicethat 5 enables the capture, analysis, and sharing of detailed anterior chamber angle images, revolutionizing eye care diagnostics, facilitating telemedicine consultation, and providing a clear and accurate view of the anterior chamber angle of the eye.
BACKGROUND 10
[2] Gonioscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the angle between the cornea and iris in the eye, a critical factor in managing various eye conditions, particularly glaucoma. During the examination, a specialized contact lens with a mirrored surface is placed on the patient's eye, allowing the ophthalmologist to visualize and evaluate the drainage angle where the aqueous humor drains from 15 the eye. By directing a beam of light onto the angle and observing the reflected light, the clinician can assess the structural integrity and openness of the drainage channels. This examination is pivotal in determining the risk of angle-closure glaucoma and aids in tailoring an appropriate treatment plan. Gonioscopy is a valuable tool in the comprehensive assessment of ocular health, enabling early 20 detection and intervention to preserve vision and manage conditions affecting the anterior segment of the eye.
[3] Conventionally, gonioscopy has significantly advanced the field of ophthalmology, offering a specialized technique for examining the anterior chamber angle of the eye. This procedure, demands a considerable level of 25 training and expertise, making it a manageable task for optometrists with the requisite skills. However, the success of gonioscopy hinges on the practitioner's proficiency in equipment handling and interpretation of findings. Patient
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cooperation, particularly in maintaining steady eye positioning during the examination, poses an occasional challenge. The critical nature of interpreting gonioscopic findings, crucial for assessing the health of the anterior chamber angle and identifying potential pathologies such as angle-closure glaucoma, underscores the need for a device that enhances accuracy and reduces human 5 error, thereby minimizing patient chairtime.
[4] In response to this need, alternative conventional inventions and procedures have emerged for assessing the anterior chamber angle, each varying in complexity, cost, and the level of detail they offer. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), provides high-resolution, non-contact cross-sectional images 10 of the anterior chamber angle. Gonioscopy lenses, exemplified, offer a comprehensive view but require manual positioning by the practitioner. Additionally, Scheimpflug imaging technology, employed in devices like Pentacam, captures detailed three-dimensional images of the anterior segment, including the crucial anterior chamber angle. These alternatives provide valuable 15 options for clinicians, offering a spectrum of choices to suit diverse clinical needs while contributing to the ongoing refinement of diagnostic tools for eye health.
[5] However, to address these problems, in conventional devices, the present invention introduces a portable slit lamp attachment device for imaging anterior chamber angle, addressing several shortcomings associated with traditional 20 device.
[6] Thus, to overcome these limitations the present invention represents a revolutionary advancement in the assessment of the anterior chamber angle of the eye, offering numerous advantages over existing devices and procedures. Its seamless integration with slit lamps streamlines the clinical workflow, ensuring 25 accessibility for eye care professionals without requiring additional equipment or space. The device provides real-time imaging and advanced image processing capabilities, enabling immediate assessment and diagnosis during the examination. Patient comfort is enhanced as it minimizes chair time, offering a
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more patient-friendly experience compared to traditional gonioscopy and certain alternative methods. The integrated approach ensures consistency and repeatability in results, addressing the variability often associated with alternative methods. With its compact and lightweight design, the device is highly portable and versatile, allowing its use in various clinical settings. Cost-effectiveness is 5 achieved by reducing the need for multiple specialized lenses and equipment, making it a practical choice for eye care practices. The device supports secure data storage and sharing, facilitating documentation, collaboration, and telemedicine applications. Its high-resolution imaging and real-time analysis contribute to enhanced diagnostic accuracy, while remote transmission 10 capabilities make it compatible with telemedicine, expanding access to expert consultations. Additionally, the device aids patient education by providing visual aids for explaining conditions and treatment options, fostering improved understanding and engagement.
OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION: 15
[7] The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available techniques and processes.
[8] Accordingly, the present invention pertains to an relates to a portable slit lamp attachment device for imaging anterior chamber angle. More particularly, it 20 introduces a devicethat enables the capture, analysis, and sharing of detailed anterior chamber angle images, revolutionizing eye care diagnostics, facilitating telemedicine consultation, and providing a clear and accurate view of the anterior chamber angle of the eye.
[9] The yet one more object of present invention has been developed a device 25 toensure compatibility with a variety of slit lamp models to maximize accessibility.
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[10] Therefore, the current invention successfully overcoming all the above-discussed shortcomings present in the art.
[11] The main object of the present invention is to develop the deviceto ensure advanced image analysis capabilities to enhance diagnostic accuracy.
[12] The main object of the present invention is to develop the deviceto focus 5 on creating a user-friendly experience to improve overall patient satisfaction.
[13] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device toaddress potential sources of variability in measurements to enhance reliability.
[14] Another object of the present invention is to develop the deviceto develop a compact and lightweight design for easy portability and ensure versatility for 10 use in diverse clinical settings, catering to the mobility needs of eye care professionals.
[15] Another object of the present invention is to develop for the device to focus on practicality for eye care practices, considering budget constraints.
[16] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device to enable 15 easy sharing of data for documentation, collaboration among professionals, and telemedicine applications.
[17] Another object of the present invention is to device toensure real-time analysis capabilities to improve diagnostic accuracy compared to existing methods. 20
[18] The main object of the present invention is to develop the deviceto facilitate expert consultations and collaborations, expanding access to specialized care.
[19] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device to enhance patient education to improve understanding and engagement in the 25 treatment process.
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[20] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device to ensure seamless attachment to biomicroscopes of different slit lamp models.
[21] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device to focus on achieving precision in image capture for accurate diagnostic data.
[22] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device to 5 prioritize the highest quality diagnostic data through advanced image processing capabilities.
[23] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device to ensure clear and accurate display for effective examination.
[24] How the foregoing objects are achieved will be clear from the following 10 brief description. In this context, it is clarified that the description provided is non-limiting and is only by way of explanation. Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the foregoing description proceeds, taken together with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.
SUMMARY 15
[25] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified format that is further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention. 20
[26] According to an aspect of the present invention relates to a portable slit lamp attachment device for imaging anterior chamber anglefor enhancing the precision and gonioscopy. The portable slit lamp attachmentdevice comprising a frame. The portable slit lamp attachmentdevice further comprising a high-resolution camera module configured to the frame capturing detailed images of an 25 anterior chamber angle. The portable slit lamp attachmentdevicefurther comprising an image processor unit configured to enhance and analyze captured
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images in real-time, ensuring the highest quality diagnostic data. The portable slit lamp attachmentdevice further comprisinga real time display unit displays of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure. The portable slit lamp attachment device further comprising integration unit configured to the frame capabilities allowing seamless attachment to a biomicroscope of a slit lamp 5 attachment. The portable slit lamp attachment device further comprising a data storage unit allowing to storing and sharing of captured images and diagnostic data for documentation and collaboration. The portable slit lamp attachment device further comprising a telemedicine integration unit configured to transmit images remotely, facilitate telemedicine consultations and collaborations. 10
[27] In an aspect of the invention, the high-resolution camera moduleand the image processor configured together to offer invaluable support to eye care professionals by providing clear and accurate views of the anterior chamber angle, minimizing variability in diagnostic insights.
[28] In an aspect of the invention, the portable slit lamp attachment is equipped 15 with autofocus and zoom features for optimal image capture.
[29] In an aspect of the invention, the frame is designed to securely hold and position the high-resolution camera module, image processor unit, real-time display unit, integration unit, data storage unit, and telemedicine integration unit in a compact and ergonomic manner. 20
[30] In an aspect of the invention, the high-resolution camera module comprises an autofocus mechanism and zoom features, allowing for optimal and adjustable image capture during the gonioscopy procedure.
[31] In an aspect of the invention, the real-time display unit is integrated seamlessly into the frame, providing eye care professionals with an immediate 25 and clear visualization of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure.
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[32] In an aspect of the invention,the integration unit is configured to securely attach the frame to the biomicroscope of a slit lamp, facilitating stable and efficient integration into the clinical workflow.
[33] In an aspect of the invention, the telemedicine integration unit configured to transmit captured images remotely, supporting telemedicine consultations and 5 collaborations, thereby extending the reach of anterior chamber angle assessment beyond physical clinic boundaries.
[34] In an aspect of the invention, the frameautofocus and zoom features are synchronized to optimize image capture, providing eye care professionals with enhanced flexibility and control during the gonioscopy procedure. 10
[35] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be 15 described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
[36] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[37] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the 20 disclosed methods and devices in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each 25 component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
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[38] Figure 1 illustratesa block diagram of a portable slit lamp attachment devicein accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and
[39] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view an example of a portable slit lamp attachment devicein accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[40] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are 5 illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by 10 conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 15
[41] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated 20 device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
[42] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention 25 and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
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[43] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this 5 specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
[44] The terms "comprise", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or 10 more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components. 15
[45] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
[46] The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but 20 rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[47] The terms “having”, “comprising”, “including”, and variations thereof signify the presence of a component.
[48] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. 25
[49] Referring Figure 1 illustrates a portable slit lamp attachment device(100) for enhancing the precision and gonioscopy. The device(100) represents a
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groundbreaking advancement in ophthalmic technology a portable slit lamp attachment meticulously designed to augment the precision and convenience of gonioscopy procedures. The device(100) encompasses a carefully engineered device(100) that seamlessly integrates into the biomicroscope of a slit lamp. At its core, the device(100) is composed of a frame serving as the foundational structure 5 for the integration of various components.
[50] In central device(100) to its functionality is a high-resolution camera module (104) affixed to the frame, strategically positioned to capture detailed images of the anterior chamber angle. This camera module (104) incorporates cutting-edge autofocus and zoom features, ensuring optimal image capture during 10 the gonioscopy procedure. The captured images are then fed into an image processor unit, a critical component that operates in real-time to enhance and analyze the images, thereby providing eye care professionals with the highest quality diagnostic data.
[51] Further, the real-time display unit(108), seamlessly integrated into the 15 frame, plays a pivotal role in offering eye care professionals an immediate and clear visualization of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure. The real-time display (108) feedback contributes to enhanced precision and decision-making, minimizing variability in diagnostic insights. Moreover, the frame (102) is designed with ergonomic considerations to securely hold and 20 position not only the camera (104) and processor (106) but also the display unit(108), integration unit, (112) data storage unit(114), and telemedicine integration unit(116).
[52] The integration unit (112) is a key element, configured to securely attach the frame to the biomicroscope of a slit lamp. This design ensures stable and 25 efficient integration into the clinical workflow, providing eye care professionals with a reliable tool for anterior chamber angle assessment. Simultaneously, the telemedicine integration unit (116) enables the transmission of captured images remotely, facilitating telemedicine consultations and collaborations. This
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capability extends the reach of anterior chamber angle assessment beyond physical clinic boundaries, offering a new dimension to patient care.
[53] In essence, this portable slit lamp attachment device(110) represents a comprehensive solution to the challenges associated with traditional gonioscopy. Its autofocus and zoom features, coupled with real-time imaging and advanced 5 image processing capabilities, provide invaluable support to eye care professionals. This invention not only addresses a significant need in optometry and ophthalmology but also promises to revolutionize the field, significantly improving patient care and diagnostic accuracy.
[54] Referring Figure 2 illustratesa practical perspective, envision a scenario 10 where an eye care professional seamlessly integrates the portable slit lamp attachment device into their daily clinical practice. As the patient comfortably rests, the high-resolution camera module captures detailed images of the anterior chamber angle with unparalleled precision, eliminating the need for prolonged chairtime. The real-time display unit instantly presents a comprehensive view of 15 the angle structures, allowing the eye care professional to navigate through the intricate details with ease. With the device's consistency and repeatability, the healthcare provider confidently performs gonioscopy assessments, knowing that each result is reliable. The versatility of the attachment becomes apparent as it effortlessly adapts to different slit lamp models, showcasing its compatibility in 20 various clinical settings. During the consultation, the eye care professional utilizes the device not only for its diagnostic accuracy but also as a powerful educational tool, visually explaining conditions and treatment options to the patient. In this perspective, the portable slit lamp attachment becomes an indispensable asset, revolutionizing anterior chamber angle assessments and exemplifying the future 25 of advanced eye care.
[55] The portable slit lamp attachment device introduces several key advantages that significantly contribute to patient comfort and diagnostic precision. Firstly, by eliminating the need for extended chairtime, the device
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minimizes discomfort for patients, enhancing their overall experience. Second, the device ensures consistency in gonioscopy assessments, providing healthcare professionals with reliable and repeatable results, thereby reducing variability in diagnoses. Additionally, the device offers a comprehensive view of the angle structures of the eye, particularly beneficial for diagnosing conditions such as 5 glaucoma. The enhanced visual capabilities of the attachment not only contribute to improved diagnostic accuracy but also serve as a valuable tool for patient education. Eye care professionals can visually explain conditions and treatment options, fostering better patient understanding. The device's versatility, compatible with various slit lamp models, increases its adaptability in diverse 10 clinical environments, further emphasizing its potential to revolutionize anterior chamber angle assessments and elevate patient care standards.
[56] While certain present preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Clearly, the invention may be otherwise variously embodied, and 15 practiced within the scope of the following claims.
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Claims
We claim: 10
1. A portable slit lamp attachment device (100) for imaging anterior chamber angle, comprising:
aframe(102);
ahigh-resolution camera module(104) configured to the frame (102) capturing detailed images of an anterior chamber angle; 15
an image processor unit (106) configured to enhance and analyze captured images in real-time, ensuring the highest quality diagnostic data;
areal time display unit(108) displays of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure;
integration unit (112) configured to the frame capabilities allowing 20 seamless attachment to a biomicroscope of a slit lamp attachment(110);
a data storage unit (114) allowing to storing and sharing of captured images and diagnostic data for documentation and collaboration; and
a telemedicine integration unit (116) configured to transmit images 25 remotely, facilitate telemedicine consultations and collaborations.
2. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high-resolution camera module(104) and the image processor
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(106) configured together to offer invaluable support to eye care professionals by providing clear and accurate views of the anterior chamber angle, minimizing variability in diagnostic insights.
3. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, 5 wherein the portable slit lamp attachment (110) is equipped with autofocus and zoom features for optimal image capture.
4. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame (102) is designed to securely hold and position the 10 high-resolution camera module (104), image processor unit (106), real-time display unit (108), integration unit (112), data storage unit (114), and telemedicine integration unit (116) in a compact and ergonomic manner.
5. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, 15 wherein the high-resolution camera module (104) includes an autofocus mechanism and zoom features, allowing for optimal and adjustable image capture during the gonioscopy procedure.
6. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, 20 wherein the real-time display unit (108) is integrated seamlessly into the frame (102), providing eye care professionals with an immediate and clear visualization of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure.
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7. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the integration unit (112) is configured to securely attach the frame(102) to the biomicroscope of a slit lamp, facilitating stable and efficient integration into the clinical workflow.
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8. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the telemedicine integration unit (116) configured to transmit captured images remotely, supporting telemedicine consultations and collaborations, thereby extending the reach of anterior chamber angle assessment beyond physical clinic boundaries. 5
9. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame(102) autofocus and zoom features are synchronized to optimize image capture, providing eye care professionals with enhanced flexibility and control during the gonioscopy procedure. 10
Dated this 16/12/2023
15 G D Goenka University, Sohna Gurugram Road, Sohna, Haryana, India,
122103
APPLICANT 20
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ABTRACT A PORTABLE SLITLAMP ATTACHMENT DEVICE FOR IMAGING 5 ANTERIOR CHAMBER ANGLE The present invention relates to a portable slit lamp attachment device (100) for imaging anterior chamber angle. The device(100) includesframe (102), a high-resolution camera module (104) with autofocus and zoom features captures 10 detailed images of the anterior chamber angle. Real-time image processing by a dedicated unit ensures the highest quality diagnostic data, displayed in real-time on an integrated unit. The device (100) seamlessly attaches to a slit lamp biomicroscope, providing stability and efficiency in clinical workflows. Additionally, a data storage unit facilitates the secure storage and sharing of 15 captured images and diagnostic data for documentation and collaboration. The telemedicine integration unit (116) extends its functionality by enabling remote image transmission, facilitating telemedicine consultations, and collaborations. Thedevice addresses a crucial need in optometry and ophthalmology, promising to revolutionize anterior chamber angle assessment and significantly enhance patient 20 care.
Figure 1
, Claims:We claim: 10
1. A portable slit lamp attachment device (100) for imaging anterior chamber angle, comprising:
aframe(102);
ahigh-resolution camera module(104) configured to the frame (102) capturing detailed images of an anterior chamber angle; 15
an image processor unit (106) configured to enhance and analyze captured images in real-time, ensuring the highest quality diagnostic data;
areal time display unit(108) displays of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure;
integration unit (112) configured to the frame capabilities allowing 20 seamless attachment to a biomicroscope of a slit lamp attachment(110);
a data storage unit (114) allowing to storing and sharing of captured images and diagnostic data for documentation and collaboration; and
a telemedicine integration unit (116) configured to transmit images 25 remotely, facilitate telemedicine consultations and collaborations.
2. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high-resolution camera module(104) and the image processor
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(106) configured together to offer invaluable support to eye care professionals by providing clear and accurate views of the anterior chamber angle, minimizing variability in diagnostic insights.
3. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, 5 wherein the portable slit lamp attachment (110) is equipped with autofocus and zoom features for optimal image capture.
4. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame (102) is designed to securely hold and position the 10 high-resolution camera module (104), image processor unit (106), real-time display unit (108), integration unit (112), data storage unit (114), and telemedicine integration unit (116) in a compact and ergonomic manner.
5. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, 15 wherein the high-resolution camera module (104) includes an autofocus mechanism and zoom features, allowing for optimal and adjustable image capture during the gonioscopy procedure.
6. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, 20 wherein the real-time display unit (108) is integrated seamlessly into the frame (102), providing eye care professionals with an immediate and clear visualization of the anterior chamber angle during the gonioscopy procedure.
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7. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the integration unit (112) is configured to securely attach the frame(102) to the biomicroscope of a slit lamp, facilitating stable and efficient integration into the clinical workflow.
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8. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the telemedicine integration unit (116) configured to transmit captured images remotely, supporting telemedicine consultations and collaborations, thereby extending the reach of anterior chamber angle assessment beyond physical clinic boundaries. 5
9. The portable slit lamp attachment device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame(102) autofocus and zoom features are synchronized to optimize image capture, providing eye care professionals with enhanced flexibility and control during the gonioscopy procedure.