US20180101029A1 - Loupe attachment apparatus and system - Google Patents
Loupe attachment apparatus and system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20180101029A1 US20180101029A1 US15/834,310 US201715834310A US2018101029A1 US 20180101029 A1 US20180101029 A1 US 20180101029A1 US 201715834310 A US201715834310 A US 201715834310A US 2018101029 A1 US2018101029 A1 US 2018101029A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- loupe
- eyewear
- optical device
- attachment apparatus
- support element
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C7/00—Optical parts
- G02C7/02—Lenses; Lens systems ; Methods of designing lenses
- G02C7/08—Auxiliary lenses; Arrangements for varying focal length
- G02C7/088—Lens systems mounted to spectacles
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B17/00—Systems with reflecting surfaces, with or without refracting elements
- G02B17/02—Catoptric systems, e.g. image erecting and reversing system
- G02B17/04—Catoptric systems, e.g. image erecting and reversing system using prisms only
- G02B17/045—Catoptric systems, e.g. image erecting and reversing system using prisms only having static image erecting or reversing properties only
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B23/00—Telescopes, e.g. binoculars; Periscopes; Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies; Viewfinders; Optical aiming or sighting devices
- G02B23/02—Telescopes, e.g. binoculars; Periscopes; Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies; Viewfinders; Optical aiming or sighting devices involving prisms or mirrors
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B23/00—Telescopes, e.g. binoculars; Periscopes; Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies; Viewfinders; Optical aiming or sighting devices
- G02B23/16—Housings; Caps; Mountings; Supports, e.g. with counterweight
- G02B23/18—Housings; Caps; Mountings; Supports, e.g. with counterweight for binocular arrangements
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B25/00—Eyepieces; Magnifying glasses
- G02B25/002—Magnifying glasses
- G02B25/004—Magnifying glasses having binocular arrangement
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B25/00—Eyepieces; Magnifying glasses
- G02B25/002—Magnifying glasses
- G02B25/005—Magnifying glasses with means for adjusting the magnifying glass or the object viewed
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B7/00—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements
- G02B7/02—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for lenses
- G02B7/04—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for lenses with mechanism for focusing or varying magnification
- G02B7/08—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for lenses with mechanism for focusing or varying magnification adapted to co-operate with a remote control mechanism
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B7/00—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements
- G02B7/18—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for prisms; for mirrors
- G02B7/1805—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for prisms; for mirrors for prisms
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C9/00—Attaching auxiliary optical parts
Definitions
- Dentists and surgeons may regularly perform procedures that may last for several hours. During such procedures, the dentist or surgeon may often have to assume an arched position to a have a direct view of the surgical field and wear surgical loupe to magnify the region of interest. It is well documented that sustaining continuous flexion of the cervical region may induce cervical strain, fatigue, and discomfort that may lead to lower performance and poorer outcome.
- loupe designs may attempt to offer some relief by orienting the optics at an angle aimed at the surgical field.
- the partial relief from strain in the neck may be offset by increased eye fatigue caused by the surgeon having to look down continuously.
- a loupe attachment for glasses may be provided.
- This loupe attachment may allow a user of the loupe, such as a surgeon or dentist, to sit comfortably in a natural position, with their head in an ergonomically-correct forward-looking position and without requiring them to arch their back uncomfortably, while still allowing them to “see” an object at their lap/belly level and have that object be magnified as well.
- this may allow a dentist to more comfortably look into a supine dental patient's mouth.
- this may allow a dentist, surgeon, or other user to keep their vision on an object located directly downward by angling the user's vision approximately 90 degrees.
- this may allow a user to see an object some distance in front of them, and may angle the user's vision downward by an amount less than 90 degrees (such as 60 degrees, or 45 degrees).
- the loupe attachment may include a loupe and a number of optical devices such as mirrors and prisms. Both loupes and optical devices may be connected to eyeglasses and be positioned as desired. The loupe and the optical device may be connected to the glasses on a number of locations and the relative position of the loupe and optical devices in the trajectory of light may be modified. Loupes may also be rigidly connected to eyeglasses and a number of optical elements may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the front end of the loupe so as to reflect the field of view situated at an angle from the loupe viewing direction.
- a loupe attachment apparatus may be disclosed.
- Such an apparatus may include: a support element, the support element configured to be attached to a set of eyewear configured to be wearable by a user, the eyewear having a frame and further having a left lens and a right lens; and a plurality of optical elements.
- the optical elements may include a plurality of optical devices, a left optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus, each of the optical devices comprising a prism; and a plurality of loupes, a left loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus.
- each of the left and the right optical device and the left and the right loupe may be disposed such that, when the support element is attached to the set of eyewear configured to be wearable by the user, a left beam path extends through the left loupe and the left optical device and is directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and a right beam path extends through the right loupe and the right optical device and is directed into the right lens of the eyewear; and such that non-zero angles are created between the left beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the left beam path upon being directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and between the right beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the right beam path upon being directed into the right lens of the eyewear.
- a loupe suspension system may be disclosed.
- Such an embodiment may include eyewear configured to be wearable by a user, the eyewear comprising a frame, a left lens, and a right lens, which may be standard and/or specialty eyewear.
- Such an embodiment may also include a support element affixed to the eyewear; and a plurality of optical elements.
- the optical elements may include a plurality of optical devices, a left optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus, each of the optical devices comprising a prism; and a plurality of loupes, a left loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus; wherein the left and the right optical device and the left and the right loupe are disposed such that a left beam path extends through the left loupe and the left optical device and is directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and a right beam path extends through the right loupe and the right optical device and is directed into the right lens of the eyewear; and wherein non-zero angles are created between the left beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the left beam path upon being directed into the left
- FIG. 1A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the loupe placed in front of the prism;
- FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the prism placed in front of the loupe;
- FIG. 2A is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the prism placed in front of the loupe;
- FIG. 2B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with loupe placed in front of the prism;
- FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a top view an exemplary embodiment of a 3-pieces type of a loupe attachment
- FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a top view an exemplary embodiment of a 3-pieces type of a loupe attachment
- FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a front view of an exemplary embodiment of main element of a loupe attachment
- FIG. 5A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment
- FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment.
- FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the loupe placed in front of the prism;
- FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the prism placed in front of the loupe.
- FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with an optical device placed in between two lens assemblies;
- FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with an optical device placed in between two lens assemblies.
- FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses.
- FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses.
- FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected to a loupe.
- FIG. 9B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected to a loupe.
- FIG. 10A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses and having a loupe connected to the optical device.
- FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses and having a loupe connected to the optical device.
- FIG. 11A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected by a bar to another optical device.
- FIG. 11B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected by a bar to another optical device.
- the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance or illustration.”
- the embodiments described herein are not limiting, but rather are exemplary only. It should be understood that the described embodiments are not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
- the terms “embodiments of the invention”, “embodiments” or “invention” do not require that all embodiments of the invention include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation.
- the loupe attachment 101 may include a main element 108 rigidly connected to glasses 100 .
- a number of telescopic connections 106 may connect a number of optical devices 104 to the main element 108 .
- the optical devices 104 may include, but may not be limited to: reflective devices; mirrors; prisms made of organic or inorganic materials; mirrored prisms; prisms having any geometry, such as Bauernfeind prisms, pentaprisms, triangular prisms with 90, 60 and 30 degree angles or approximately these angle measurements (such as, for example, angle measurements within a certain number of degrees of these angle measurements, e.g.
- a loupe support 110 may connect a number of loupes 102 to the main element 108 .
- One or more of the loupes 102 may be rotatably connected to the loupe support, such that the loupes 102 may be rotated with respect to the loupe support 110 , if desired; alternatively, loupes 102 may be rigidly connected.
- the assembly of one or more of the loupes 102 may be adjustable, and may be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and/or may be adjusted for alignment with the optical device 104 ; alternatively, optical device 104 may be adjusted with respect to the loupes 102 . Any or all of these adjustments, or none of these adjustments, may be made to particular embodiments of an assembly of one or more of the loupes 102 .
- an assembly of a loupe 102 and an optical device 104 may be fully adjustable, such that both the loupe 102 and the 104 may each be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and/or adjusted for alignment.
- an assembly of a loupe 102 and an optical device 104 may be partially adjustable, for example being adjustable for inter-pupillary distance, but may not otherwise be alignable.
- two or more loupes 102 may be included in an assembly, which may provide magnified vision for both eyes. It may be appreciated that any types of loupes, such as single lens loupes, multiple lens loupes, and adjustable loupes, may be included, as desired.
- glasses 100 may also include magnifying lenses.
- the glasses 100 may include prescription lenses, of certain varieties (such as bifocal lenses) or of any variety, as desired or prescribed. These prescription lenses may be tailored to a specific user and may be used to replace the user's existing prescription eyewear.
- a loupe attachment 101 may be attachable to a user's existing eyewear rather than glasses 100 specific to the loupe attachment 101 assembly, if desired.
- loupes 102 may be selected such that they are appropriately paired with a user's prescription eyewear, if desired.
- a loupe 102 may be selected such that it accommodates the prescription of the user, as may be desired.
- glasses 100 may not include magnifying lenses, and lenses may instead serve a protective purpose or may be absent.
- glasses 100 may be just frames, and no lenses may be provided within the eye wires/rims of the glasses 100 , if desired.
- the main element 108 may be rigidly connected to the glasses by fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws, clasps, nuts, and bolts.
- the main element 108 may have an adjustable structure and may reposition the loupe support 110 in a horizontal and vertical direction.
- the first end of the telescopic connections 106 may be connected to the main element 108 through ball-socket type hinges 105 and the second end may be connected to the number of optical devices 104 through ball-socket type hinges 105 .
- the telescopic connections 106 may allow the optical device to be placed and aligned in front or behind the loupes 102 , as desired. Further, the telescopic connections 106 may have tightening screws to rigidly connect the optical elements to the main element 108 . Any desired structural elements such as flexible wires, coils, bars, lockable hinges, as may be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art, may be used to connect the main element 108 to the number of optical devices 104 . Further, it may be appreciated that the telescopic connections 106 may have any desired types and number of hinges 105 and may be particularly adapted to a specific to type or brand of loupes.
- the loupe attachment may include three pieces.
- a first piece may be main element 108 rigidly connected to glasses 100 .
- a loupe support 110 may connect a number of loupes 102 to the main element 108 and the number of loupes 102 , may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the loupe support.
- the main element 108 may be rigidly connected to the glasses by fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws, clasp, nuts, and bolts.
- the main element 108 may have an adjustable structure and may translate the loupe support 110 in a horizontal and vertical direction.
- the second and third pieces may be assemblies of a number of telescopic connections 106 and optical devices 104 .
- the first end of the telescopic connection 106 may be connected to the glasses 100 through ball-socket type hinges 105 and the second end the telescopic connection 106 may be connected to the number of optical devices 104 through ball-socket type hinges 105 .
- the telescopic connection 106 may also connect the number of optical devices 104 to the loupes 102 and to the loupe connector 110 , as desired.
- the telescopic connections 106 may allow the optical device to be placed and aligned in front or behind the loupes 102 , as desired. Further, the telescopic connections 106 may have tightening screws to rigidly connect the optical elements to the main element 108 . It may be appreciated that any desired structural elements may be used to connect the main element 108 to the number of optical devices 104 .
- a loupe frame 110 may be coupled to a main element 108 by emplacing a portion of the loupe frame 110 , such as an end or an end tab of the loupe frame 110 , in a slot disposed on the main element 108 and intended for the purpose of retaining the loupe frame 110 .
- FIG. 4 may illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a vertical array of horizontally-disposed slots 112 located on the main element 108 for rigidly connecting the loupe frame 110 at one of several desired height.
- one or more vertical slots 112 may be used instead, which may allow the loupe frame 110 to be coupled to the vertical slot or slots 112 at any desired height by sliding the loupe frame up and down the slot 112 and connecting it by an appropriate connection method, such as a clamp or pressure screw.
- a number of loupes 102 may be rigidly connected to glasses 100 in a forward position, with the axis of each loupe 102 arranged substantially perpendicular to the surface of the glasses lenses.
- a number of connecting elements 120 may rigidly or rotatably connect a number of optical devices 104 to the number of loupe 102 .
- the connecting elements 120 may be any desired structural element such as, but not limited to, clasps, clamps, and anchors, as may be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art.
- the number of optical devices 104 may reflect the field of view situated at an angle from the loupe viewing direction.
- the loupe attachment 101 may include a number of optical devices 104 .
- the optical devices 104 may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the number of loupes 102 and placed behind the loupes 102
- the optical devices 104 may be rigidly or rotably connected to the number of loupes 102 and placed in front of the loupes 102 .
- loupes 102 may be rigidly or rotatably connected to glasses 100 , for example by a loupe support 110 .
- the number of loupes 102 may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the loupe support.
- Each of the loupe's lenses assembly may be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and alignment with the optical device 104 , as would be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art.
- the number of loupes 102 may include a set of two lenses assembly that may provide magnified vision for both eyes.
- the optical device 104 may be connected to the loupes 102 , the loupes support 110 , and the glasses 100 . Further, the connections between the glasses 100 , the loupes 102 , and the optical devices 104 may be adjusted and locked rigidly, or may, for example, be permanently fixed or may have another configuration, as desired.
- the one or more optical devices 104 may be attached directly to the frames of the glasses 100 .
- glasses 100 may have prescription lenses, may have other magnifying lenses, may have flat lenses or may have no lenses, as desired.
- the one or more loupes 102 may be attached to the optical devices 104 , to the glasses 100 , or to any other component, as desired.
- Optical devices 104 may be fixed in place or may be adjustable, as desired.
- the optical device 104 may be connected to the first lens assembly 116 , the second lens assembly 115 , and the loupes support 110 . Further, the connections between the glasses 100 , the first lens assembly 116 , the second lenses assembly 115 , and the optical devices 104 may be adjusted and locked rigidly, as desired.
- the loupe attachment 101 may include an optical device 104 which may be connected directly to glasses 100 , without the use of a main element 108 .
- a main element 108 may be provided, for example to provide additional structural support.
- optical devices 104 may be or may include, for example, reflective devices such as mirrors, prisms, or mirrored prisms, which may be constructed from any appropriate material and which may have any geometry.
- such an optical device 104 may include a prism 122 and a mirror 124 affixed to at least one surface of the prism 122 and having a reflective surface oriented in the direction of the prism 122 .
- an optical device 104 may be another configuration of one or more mirrors and/or one or more prisms, such as one or more pentaprisms, as desired.
- the optical device 104 may be connected to the glasses 100 by the use of a connector 126 , which may allow the optical device to be adjusted in one or more directions or rotated along at least one arc, as may be desired.
- the connector 126 may extend through a portion of the optical device 104 , such as through a corner of a triangular prism 122 .
- a connector 126 may be otherwise affixed to an optical device 104 ; for example, a connector 126 may be affixed to an optical device 104 by adhesive or by a mechanical connector, or by another coupling method, as may be desired.
- the connectors 126 may be at least one of a clamp, a slide, and a swivel, or any other device allowing adjustment. Connectors 126 may also be lockable in place or unlockable using some mechanism; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, each connector 126 may be fixed in place by the adjustment of a screw. It may be appreciated, however, that fixing, fastening, adjusting, and coupling elements, such as a screw, are merely exemplary and any other fixing, fastening, adjusting or coupling elements may be utilized, as desired.
- optical devices 104 may be adjusted in a linear direction (such as in-out, up-down, or left-right) using a slide, rotated in an angular direction using a swivel (which may be, for example, a ball-and-socket allowing for multiple degrees of freedom in rotation, if desired), and then fixed in place by tightening the screw to lock the connector 126 .
- a linear direction such as in-out, up-down, or left-right
- a swivel which may be, for example, a ball-and-socket allowing for multiple degrees of freedom in rotation, if desired
- a loupe support 110 may connect one or more loupes 102 to glasses 100 .
- loupes 102 may be rotatably connected to the loupe support 110 , if desired.
- the interface or connection between the loupe support 110 and the glasses 100 may be adjustable; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, the glasses 100 may have a plurality of potential mounting sites in which the loupe support 110 may be emplaced, and a user may be able to move the loupe support 110 between each of the plurality of mounting sites in order to adjust the position of the loupe support.
- the loupe support 110 may be adjustable, and may, for example, include an adjustable structure.
- the loupe support 110 may incorporate a slider that allows for repositioning of the loupes 102 in a horizontal direction, such as from side to side or back and forth along the loupe support 110 , or may incorporate a telescoping portion that allows for repositioning of the loupes 102 .
- loupe supports 110 may have different adjustable and unadjustable states; for example, a loupe support 110 may become adjustable when a screw is loosened and unadjustable when the screw is tightened, ensuring that the loupe support 110 can be adjusted into place when desired and reducing the possibility of inadvertent adjustments being made to the loupe support 110 .
- Different loupe supports 110 in different sizes and shapes may also be available, and adjustment of the loupe support 110 may include replacement of the loupe support 110 with a different loupe support 110 , as may be desired.
- connectors 126 may be located on or connected to another part of the loupe attachment 101 rather than on the glasses 100 .
- an optical device 104 may be connected to a loupe 102 , or alternatively to a loupe support 110 or another part of the loupe attachment 101 , rather than being connected to the glasses 100 .
- different types of connectors 126 which may be, for example, clamps, slides, swivels, or any other devices allowing adjustment, may be used based on their placement on the loupe attachment 101 or on the glasses 100 , or based on the configuration of optical devices 104 connected to or supported by the connectors 126 .
- Connectors 126 may similarly be adjustable, regardless of their placement on the loupe attachment 101 , and may allow for the optical device 104 to be adjusted in one or more directions or in one or more degrees of freedom, as desired; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, a connector 126 placed between an optical device 104 and a loupe 102 may incorporate a clamp, slide, and/or swivel, and may be fixed in place by the tightening or loosening of a screw, as desired.
- loupe attachment 101 may be connected to and may extend from the optical devices 104 .
- the optical devices 104 may be connected to the glasses 100 via the use of connectors 126 , and the loupes 102 may extend from the optical devices 104 via one or more loupe supports 110 .
- Loupe supports 110 may be adjustable and may be linked to one or more other loupe supports 110 .
- loupe supports 110 may be connected to one another, for example by a bar or cross-linkage, allowing a relationship (for example, a set distance) between the loupe supports 110 to be maintained, or allowing multiple loupe supports to be adjusted at once.
- one or more of the optical devices 104 may be linked to other optical devices 104 , such as by an adjustable or fixed bar 128 .
- This may allow for multiple optical devices 104 to be adjusted at one time, ensuring that an operator needs to perform fewer adjustment steps in order to adjust the optical devices 104 into a desired position.
- an adjustable or fixed bar 128 may allow for a relationship between multiple optical devices 104 to be maintained when the optical devices 104 are adjusted into a different orientation.
- the optical devices 104 may be configured such that they may be flipped up and out of the way of the glasses 100 of the user such that the user can better see something that is directly in front of the glasses 100 , and then flipped down into the same position (or substantially the same position) that they were in before the user flipped them up.
- the connectors 126 may be adjustable in at least one direction or may have at least one degree of freedom, and may be constructed in such a manner as to take into account the adjustable or fixed bar 128 .
- two connectors 126 may be configured such that when one connector 126 is adjusted in a linear direction by adjusting a slide that is part of the connector 126 , the other connector 126 is simultaneously adjusted with it so as to maintain the spaced relationship between the optical devices 104 or other components that is created by the bar 128 .
- only one connector 126 may be lockable, for example with a locking screw, and the other connector 126 may be freely adjustable, such that when the locking screw is released from the one connector 126 , both may be adjusted.
- different numbers or configurations of connectors 126 may be understood; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, only one connector 126 , such as a centrally-placed connector 126 connected to the fixed or adjustable bar 128 , may be used, if desired.
- the entire frame of the loupe attachment 101 may also be attached to or linked to the adjustable or fixed bar 128 or to optical devices 104 having a fixed bar 128 .
- This may allow the entire frame of the loupe attachment 101 , or at least the interconnected portion of the frame including the loupes 102 , to be similarly held in a particular orientation when adjusted away from the front portion of the glasses 100 .
- This may allow a user to adjust the loupe attachment 101 out of the way, view an object in front of the user, and easily readjust the loupe attachment 101 back into place without having to readjust each component of the loupe attachment 101 .
- an adjustable bar 128 may be or may include at least one of a clamp, a slide, and a swivel, or any other device allowing adjustment.
- an adjustable bar 128 may include a telescoping slide.
- Adjustable bar 128 may also be lockable in place or unlockable using some mechanism; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, an adjustable bar 128 may be fixed in place by the adjustment of a screw. This may allow components connected to the adjustable bar 128 , such as optical devices 104 , to be adjusted in a linear direction using a slide, adjusted in any other desired manner, and then fixed in place by tightening the screw to lock the adjustable bar 128 .
- Adjustable bar 128 may also be, for example, a fixed bar 128 or a substantially fixed bar 128 that may be coupled to a connector 126 , which may be adjustable as previously described.
- a loupe attachment 101 may be attached or attachable to other face wear other than glasses 100 .
- a loupe attachment 101 may be built into or attachable to safety glasses, which may include, for example, a top shield, one or more side shields, and a bottom shield. This may allow the loupe attachment 101 to be used in roles in which the user would have to meet certain occupational safety requirements, such as, for example, certain laboratory work.
- a loupe attachment 101 may be attached or attachable to other headwear other than glasses 100 or face wear.
- one or more optical devices 104 may be attached to a hat, visor, headband, or another item of headwear, and may be suspended in front of or otherwise put in combination with the remainder of the loupe attachment 101 , for example by one of the connection mechanisms (such as a telescoping bar) previously discussed with regard to the glasses 100 or other face wear.
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- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Optics & Photonics (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Ophthalmology & Optometry (AREA)
- Astronomy & Astrophysics (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Lenses (AREA)
Abstract
According to an exemplary embodiment, a loupe attachment for glasses may be provided. The loupe attachment may include a loupe and a number of optical devices such as mirrors or prisms. The loupe and the optical devices may be connected to eyeglasses and be positioned as desired. The loupe and the optical device may be connected to the glasses on number of locations and the relative position of the loupe and optical devices in the trajectory of light may be modified. According to a second exemplary embodiment, loupes may be rigidly connected to eyeglasses and a number of optical elements may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the front end of the loupe so as to reflect the field of view situated at an angle from the loupe viewing direction.
Description
- Dentists and surgeons may regularly perform procedures that may last for several hours. During such procedures, the dentist or surgeon may often have to assume an arched position to a have a direct view of the surgical field and wear surgical loupe to magnify the region of interest. It is well documented that sustaining continuous flexion of the cervical region may induce cervical strain, fatigue, and discomfort that may lead to lower performance and poorer outcome.
- Current loupe designs may attempt to offer some relief by orienting the optics at an angle aimed at the surgical field. However, the partial relief from strain in the neck may be offset by increased eye fatigue caused by the surgeon having to look down continuously.
- According to an exemplary embodiment, a loupe attachment for glasses may be provided. This loupe attachment may allow a user of the loupe, such as a surgeon or dentist, to sit comfortably in a natural position, with their head in an ergonomically-correct forward-looking position and without requiring them to arch their back uncomfortably, while still allowing them to “see” an object at their lap/belly level and have that object be magnified as well. For example, this may allow a dentist to more comfortably look into a supine dental patient's mouth. In some embodiments, this may allow a dentist, surgeon, or other user to keep their vision on an object located directly downward by angling the user's vision approximately 90 degrees. In other embodiments, this may allow a user to see an object some distance in front of them, and may angle the user's vision downward by an amount less than 90 degrees (such as 60 degrees, or 45 degrees).
- The loupe attachment may include a loupe and a number of optical devices such as mirrors and prisms. Both loupes and optical devices may be connected to eyeglasses and be positioned as desired. The loupe and the optical device may be connected to the glasses on a number of locations and the relative position of the loupe and optical devices in the trajectory of light may be modified. Loupes may also be rigidly connected to eyeglasses and a number of optical elements may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the front end of the loupe so as to reflect the field of view situated at an angle from the loupe viewing direction.
- According to a first exemplary embodiment, a loupe attachment apparatus may be disclosed. Such an apparatus may include: a support element, the support element configured to be attached to a set of eyewear configured to be wearable by a user, the eyewear having a frame and further having a left lens and a right lens; and a plurality of optical elements. The optical elements may include a plurality of optical devices, a left optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus, each of the optical devices comprising a prism; and a plurality of loupes, a left loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus. In the apparatus, each of the left and the right optical device and the left and the right loupe may be disposed such that, when the support element is attached to the set of eyewear configured to be wearable by the user, a left beam path extends through the left loupe and the left optical device and is directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and a right beam path extends through the right loupe and the right optical device and is directed into the right lens of the eyewear; and such that non-zero angles are created between the left beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the left beam path upon being directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and between the right beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the right beam path upon being directed into the right lens of the eyewear.
- According to a second exemplary embodiment, a loupe suspension system may be disclosed. Such an embodiment may include eyewear configured to be wearable by a user, the eyewear comprising a frame, a left lens, and a right lens, which may be standard and/or specialty eyewear. Such an embodiment may also include a support element affixed to the eyewear; and a plurality of optical elements. The optical elements may include a plurality of optical devices, a left optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right optical device in the plurality of optical devices being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus, each of the optical devices comprising a prism; and a plurality of loupes, a left loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the left side of the loupe attachment apparatus and a right loupe in the plurality of loupes being disposed on the right side of the loupe attachment apparatus; wherein the left and the right optical device and the left and the right loupe are disposed such that a left beam path extends through the left loupe and the left optical device and is directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and a right beam path extends through the right loupe and the right optical device and is directed into the right lens of the eyewear; and wherein non-zero angles are created between the left beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the left beam path upon being directed into the left lens of the eyewear, and between the right beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the right beam path upon being directed into the right lens of the eyewear.
- Advantages of embodiments of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments. The following detailed description should be considered in conjunction with the accompanying figures in which:
-
FIG. 1A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the loupe placed in front of the prism; -
FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the prism placed in front of the loupe; -
FIG. 2A is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the prism placed in front of the loupe; -
FIG. 2B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with loupe placed in front of the prism; -
FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a top view an exemplary embodiment of a 3-pieces type of a loupe attachment; -
FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a top view an exemplary embodiment of a 3-pieces type of a loupe attachment; -
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a front view of an exemplary embodiment of main element of a loupe attachment; -
FIG. 5A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment; -
FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment. -
FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the loupe placed in front of the prism; -
FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with the prism placed in front of the loupe. -
FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with an optical device placed in between two lens assemblies; and -
FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment with an optical device placed in between two lens assemblies. -
FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses. -
FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses. -
FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected to a loupe. -
FIG. 9B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected to a loupe. -
FIG. 10A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses and having a loupe connected to the optical device. -
FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected directly to glasses and having a loupe connected to the optical device. -
FIG. 11A is a diagram showing a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected by a bar to another optical device. -
FIG. 11B is a diagram showing a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a loupe attachment having an optical device connected by a bar to another optical device. - Aspects of the present invention are disclosed in the following description and related figures directed to specific embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention.
- As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance or illustration.” The embodiments described herein are not limiting, but rather are exemplary only. It should be understood that the described embodiments are not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Moreover, the terms “embodiments of the invention”, “embodiments” or “invention” do not require that all embodiments of the invention include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation.
- In an exemplary embodiment, illustrated in
FIGS. 1A-1B andFIG. 2A-2B , theloupe attachment 101 may include amain element 108 rigidly connected toglasses 100. A number oftelescopic connections 106 may connect a number ofoptical devices 104 to themain element 108. It may be appreciated that theoptical devices 104 may include, but may not be limited to: reflective devices; mirrors; prisms made of organic or inorganic materials; mirrored prisms; prisms having any geometry, such as Bauernfeind prisms, pentaprisms, triangular prisms with 90, 60 and 30 degree angles or approximately these angle measurements (such as, for example, angle measurements within a certain number of degrees of these angle measurements, e.g. five degrees), or triangular prisms having other angle measurements, for example between 25 and 35 degrees, between 55 and 65 degrees, and between 85 and 95 degrees, as desired; or any other optical device, as it may be understood by a person having ordinary skills in the art. Combinations of optical devices may also be used, as desired. Aloupe support 110 may connect a number ofloupes 102 to themain element 108. One or more of theloupes 102 may be rotatably connected to the loupe support, such that theloupes 102 may be rotated with respect to theloupe support 110, if desired; alternatively,loupes 102 may be rigidly connected. In an embodiment, the assembly of one or more of theloupes 102 may be adjustable, and may be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and/or may be adjusted for alignment with theoptical device 104; alternatively,optical device 104 may be adjusted with respect to theloupes 102. Any or all of these adjustments, or none of these adjustments, may be made to particular embodiments of an assembly of one or more of theloupes 102. For example, according to one exemplary embodiment, an assembly of aloupe 102 and anoptical device 104 may be fully adjustable, such that both theloupe 102 and the 104 may each be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and/or adjusted for alignment. In another exemplary embodiment, an assembly of aloupe 102 and anoptical device 104, such as a prism, may be partially adjustable, for example being adjustable for inter-pupillary distance, but may not otherwise be alignable. In an exemplary embodiment, two ormore loupes 102 may be included in an assembly, which may provide magnified vision for both eyes. It may be appreciated that any types of loupes, such as single lens loupes, multiple lens loupes, and adjustable loupes, may be included, as desired. - In some embodiments,
glasses 100 may also include magnifying lenses. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, theglasses 100 may include prescription lenses, of certain varieties (such as bifocal lenses) or of any variety, as desired or prescribed. These prescription lenses may be tailored to a specific user and may be used to replace the user's existing prescription eyewear. In some other exemplary embodiments, aloupe attachment 101 may be attachable to a user's existing eyewear rather thanglasses 100 specific to theloupe attachment 101 assembly, if desired. In an exemplary embodiment,loupes 102 may be selected such that they are appropriately paired with a user's prescription eyewear, if desired. Alternatively, in some embodiments, aloupe 102 may be selected such that it accommodates the prescription of the user, as may be desired. In some embodiments,glasses 100 may not include magnifying lenses, and lenses may instead serve a protective purpose or may be absent. For example,glasses 100 may be just frames, and no lenses may be provided within the eye wires/rims of theglasses 100, if desired. - The
main element 108 may be rigidly connected to the glasses by fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws, clasps, nuts, and bolts. Themain element 108 may have an adjustable structure and may reposition theloupe support 110 in a horizontal and vertical direction. - In another exemplary embodiment, the first end of the
telescopic connections 106 may be connected to themain element 108 through ball-socket type hinges 105 and the second end may be connected to the number ofoptical devices 104 through ball-socket type hinges 105. Thetelescopic connections 106 may allow the optical device to be placed and aligned in front or behind theloupes 102, as desired. Further, thetelescopic connections 106 may have tightening screws to rigidly connect the optical elements to themain element 108. Any desired structural elements such as flexible wires, coils, bars, lockable hinges, as may be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art, may be used to connect themain element 108 to the number ofoptical devices 104. Further, it may be appreciated that thetelescopic connections 106 may have any desired types and number ofhinges 105 and may be particularly adapted to a specific to type or brand of loupes. - In another embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 3A-3B , the loupe attachment may include three pieces. A first piece may bemain element 108 rigidly connected toglasses 100. Aloupe support 110 may connect a number ofloupes 102 to themain element 108 and the number ofloupes 102, may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the loupe support. Themain element 108 may be rigidly connected to the glasses by fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws, clasp, nuts, and bolts. Themain element 108 may have an adjustable structure and may translate theloupe support 110 in a horizontal and vertical direction. The second and third pieces may be assemblies of a number oftelescopic connections 106 andoptical devices 104. The first end of thetelescopic connection 106 may be connected to theglasses 100 through ball-socket type hinges 105 and the second end thetelescopic connection 106 may be connected to the number ofoptical devices 104 through ball-socket type hinges 105. Thetelescopic connection 106 may also connect the number ofoptical devices 104 to theloupes 102 and to theloupe connector 110, as desired. Thetelescopic connections 106 may allow the optical device to be placed and aligned in front or behind theloupes 102, as desired. Further, thetelescopic connections 106 may have tightening screws to rigidly connect the optical elements to themain element 108. It may be appreciated that any desired structural elements may be used to connect themain element 108 to the number ofoptical devices 104. - In an exemplary embodiment, a
loupe frame 110 may be coupled to amain element 108 by emplacing a portion of theloupe frame 110, such as an end or an end tab of theloupe frame 110, in a slot disposed on themain element 108 and intended for the purpose of retaining theloupe frame 110.FIG. 4 may illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a vertical array of horizontally-disposedslots 112 located on themain element 108 for rigidly connecting theloupe frame 110 at one of several desired height. In another exemplary embodiment, one or morevertical slots 112, orslots 112 having another orientation, may be used instead, which may allow theloupe frame 110 to be coupled to the vertical slot orslots 112 at any desired height by sliding the loupe frame up and down theslot 112 and connecting it by an appropriate connection method, such as a clamp or pressure screw. - In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 5A-5B , a number ofloupes 102 may be rigidly connected toglasses 100 in a forward position, with the axis of eachloupe 102 arranged substantially perpendicular to the surface of the glasses lenses. A number of connectingelements 120 may rigidly or rotatably connect a number ofoptical devices 104 to the number ofloupe 102. It may be appreciated that the connectingelements 120 may be any desired structural element such as, but not limited to, clasps, clamps, and anchors, as may be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art. The number ofoptical devices 104 may reflect the field of view situated at an angle from the loupe viewing direction. - In another exemplary embodiment, illustrated in
FIGS. 6A-6B , theloupe attachment 101 may include a number ofoptical devices 104. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6A , theoptical devices 104 may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the number ofloupes 102 and placed behind theloupes 102, while in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6B , theoptical devices 104 may be rigidly or rotably connected to the number ofloupes 102 and placed in front of theloupes 102. In each exemplary embodiment,loupes 102 may be rigidly or rotatably connected toglasses 100, for example by aloupe support 110. The number ofloupes 102 may be rigidly or rotatably connected to the loupe support. Each of the loupe's lenses assembly may be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and alignment with theoptical device 104, as would be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art. The number ofloupes 102 may include a set of two lenses assembly that may provide magnified vision for both eyes. It may be appreciated that theoptical device 104 may be connected to theloupes 102, theloupes support 110, and theglasses 100. Further, the connections between theglasses 100, theloupes 102, and theoptical devices 104 may be adjusted and locked rigidly, or may, for example, be permanently fixed or may have another configuration, as desired. - Alternatively, in the exemplary embodiment depicted in
FIG. 6A or in a similar exemplary embodiment, the one or moreoptical devices 104 may be attached directly to the frames of theglasses 100. In some exemplary embodiments,glasses 100 may have prescription lenses, may have other magnifying lenses, may have flat lenses or may have no lenses, as desired. According to such an exemplary embodiment, the one ormore loupes 102 may be attached to theoptical devices 104, to theglasses 100, or to any other component, as desired.Optical devices 104 may be fixed in place or may be adjustable, as desired. - In a further embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 7A-7B , theloupe attachment 101 may include afirst lens assembly 116 rigidly or rotatably connected toglasses 100. Aloupe support 110 may connect afirst lens assembly 116 toglasses 100. Thefirst lens assembly 116 and theoptical device 104 may be rigidly or rotatably connected to theloupe support 110. Thefirst lenses assembly 116 and thesecond lens assembly 115 may be positioned to correct for focal point, adjusted for pupillary distance, and alignment with theoptical device 104, as would be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art. Theloupe attachment 101 may include asecond lenses assembly 115 that may be connected to theoptical device 104 and may provide magnified vision for both eyes. It may be appreciated that theoptical device 104 may be connected to thefirst lens assembly 116, thesecond lens assembly 115, and theloupes support 110. Further, the connections between theglasses 100, thefirst lens assembly 116, thesecond lenses assembly 115, and theoptical devices 104 may be adjusted and locked rigidly, as desired. - In a further embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 8A-8B , theloupe attachment 101 may include anoptical device 104 which may be connected directly toglasses 100, without the use of amain element 108. However, in some other embodiments, amain element 108 may be provided, for example to provide additional structural support. - According to some exemplary embodiments,
optical devices 104 may be or may include, for example, reflective devices such as mirrors, prisms, or mirrored prisms, which may be constructed from any appropriate material and which may have any geometry. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, such anoptical device 104 may include aprism 122 and amirror 124 affixed to at least one surface of theprism 122 and having a reflective surface oriented in the direction of theprism 122. According to another exemplary embodiment, anoptical device 104 may be another configuration of one or more mirrors and/or one or more prisms, such as one or more pentaprisms, as desired. Theoptical device 104 may be connected to theglasses 100 by the use of aconnector 126, which may allow the optical device to be adjusted in one or more directions or rotated along at least one arc, as may be desired. In some embodiments, such as in embodiments wherein theoptical device 104 or theprism 122 of theoptical device 104 is triangular, theconnector 126 may extend through a portion of theoptical device 104, such as through a corner of atriangular prism 122. In other embodiments, aconnector 126 may be otherwise affixed to anoptical device 104; for example, aconnector 126 may be affixed to anoptical device 104 by adhesive or by a mechanical connector, or by another coupling method, as may be desired. - In some embodiments, the
connectors 126 may be at least one of a clamp, a slide, and a swivel, or any other device allowing adjustment.Connectors 126 may also be lockable in place or unlockable using some mechanism; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, eachconnector 126 may be fixed in place by the adjustment of a screw. It may be appreciated, however, that fixing, fastening, adjusting, and coupling elements, such as a screw, are merely exemplary and any other fixing, fastening, adjusting or coupling elements may be utilized, as desired. This may allow theoptical devices 104 to be adjusted in a linear direction (such as in-out, up-down, or left-right) using a slide, rotated in an angular direction using a swivel (which may be, for example, a ball-and-socket allowing for multiple degrees of freedom in rotation, if desired), and then fixed in place by tightening the screw to lock theconnector 126. - In an exemplary embodiment, a
loupe support 110 may connect one ormore loupes 102 toglasses 100. As in other embodiments,loupes 102 may be rotatably connected to theloupe support 110, if desired. In some embodiments, the interface or connection between theloupe support 110 and theglasses 100 may be adjustable; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, theglasses 100 may have a plurality of potential mounting sites in which theloupe support 110 may be emplaced, and a user may be able to move theloupe support 110 between each of the plurality of mounting sites in order to adjust the position of the loupe support. In another exemplary embodiment, theloupe support 110 may be adjustable, and may, for example, include an adjustable structure. For example, in some potential embodiments, theloupe support 110 may incorporate a slider that allows for repositioning of theloupes 102 in a horizontal direction, such as from side to side or back and forth along theloupe support 110, or may incorporate a telescoping portion that allows for repositioning of theloupes 102. In some embodiments, loupe supports 110 may have different adjustable and unadjustable states; for example, aloupe support 110 may become adjustable when a screw is loosened and unadjustable when the screw is tightened, ensuring that theloupe support 110 can be adjusted into place when desired and reducing the possibility of inadvertent adjustments being made to theloupe support 110. Different loupe supports 110 in different sizes and shapes may also be available, and adjustment of theloupe support 110 may include replacement of theloupe support 110 with adifferent loupe support 110, as may be desired. - In a further embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 9A-9B ,connectors 126 may be located on or connected to another part of theloupe attachment 101 rather than on theglasses 100. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, anoptical device 104 may be connected to aloupe 102, or alternatively to aloupe support 110 or another part of theloupe attachment 101, rather than being connected to theglasses 100. In some exemplary embodiments, different types ofconnectors 126, which may be, for example, clamps, slides, swivels, or any other devices allowing adjustment, may be used based on their placement on theloupe attachment 101 or on theglasses 100, or based on the configuration ofoptical devices 104 connected to or supported by theconnectors 126.Connectors 126 may similarly be adjustable, regardless of their placement on theloupe attachment 101, and may allow for theoptical device 104 to be adjusted in one or more directions or in one or more degrees of freedom, as desired; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, aconnector 126 placed between anoptical device 104 and aloupe 102 may incorporate a clamp, slide, and/or swivel, and may be fixed in place by the tightening or loosening of a screw, as desired. - In a further exemplary embodiment, illustrated in
FIG. 10A-10B , other parts of theloupe attachment 101, such as theloupes 102, may be connected to and may extend from theoptical devices 104. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, theoptical devices 104 may be connected to theglasses 100 via the use ofconnectors 126, and theloupes 102 may extend from theoptical devices 104 via one or more loupe supports 110. Loupe supports 110 may be adjustable and may be linked to one or more other loupe supports 110. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, loupe supports 110 may be connected to one another, for example by a bar or cross-linkage, allowing a relationship (for example, a set distance) between the loupe supports 110 to be maintained, or allowing multiple loupe supports to be adjusted at once. - In a further exemplary embodiment, illustrated in
FIG. 11A-11B , one or more of theoptical devices 104 may be linked to otheroptical devices 104, such as by an adjustable or fixedbar 128. This may allow for multipleoptical devices 104 to be adjusted at one time, ensuring that an operator needs to perform fewer adjustment steps in order to adjust theoptical devices 104 into a desired position. In an exemplary embodiment, an adjustable or fixedbar 128 may allow for a relationship between multipleoptical devices 104 to be maintained when theoptical devices 104 are adjusted into a different orientation. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, theoptical devices 104 may be configured such that they may be flipped up and out of the way of theglasses 100 of the user such that the user can better see something that is directly in front of theglasses 100, and then flipped down into the same position (or substantially the same position) that they were in before the user flipped them up. - According to an exemplary embodiment where there is an adjustable or fixed
bar 128 between one or more components, such as theoptical devices 104, the connectors 126 (which again may be, for example, clamps, slides, swivels, or similar devices) may be adjustable in at least one direction or may have at least one degree of freedom, and may be constructed in such a manner as to take into account the adjustable or fixedbar 128. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, twoconnectors 126 may be configured such that when oneconnector 126 is adjusted in a linear direction by adjusting a slide that is part of theconnector 126, theother connector 126 is simultaneously adjusted with it so as to maintain the spaced relationship between theoptical devices 104 or other components that is created by thebar 128. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, only oneconnector 126 may be lockable, for example with a locking screw, and theother connector 126 may be freely adjustable, such that when the locking screw is released from the oneconnector 126, both may be adjusted. Alternatively, different numbers or configurations ofconnectors 126 may be understood; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, only oneconnector 126, such as a centrally-placedconnector 126 connected to the fixed oradjustable bar 128, may be used, if desired. - In some embodiments, the entire frame of the
loupe attachment 101, or a portion of the frame also including theloupes 102, may also be attached to or linked to the adjustable or fixedbar 128 or tooptical devices 104 having a fixedbar 128. This may allow the entire frame of theloupe attachment 101, or at least the interconnected portion of the frame including theloupes 102, to be similarly held in a particular orientation when adjusted away from the front portion of theglasses 100. This may allow a user to adjust theloupe attachment 101 out of the way, view an object in front of the user, and easily readjust theloupe attachment 101 back into place without having to readjust each component of theloupe attachment 101. - In some embodiments, an
adjustable bar 128 may be or may include at least one of a clamp, a slide, and a swivel, or any other device allowing adjustment. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, anadjustable bar 128 may include a telescoping slide.Adjustable bar 128 may also be lockable in place or unlockable using some mechanism; for example, in an exemplary embodiment, anadjustable bar 128 may be fixed in place by the adjustment of a screw. This may allow components connected to theadjustable bar 128, such asoptical devices 104, to be adjusted in a linear direction using a slide, adjusted in any other desired manner, and then fixed in place by tightening the screw to lock theadjustable bar 128.Adjustable bar 128 may also be, for example, a fixedbar 128 or a substantially fixedbar 128 that may be coupled to aconnector 126, which may be adjustable as previously described. - According to some exemplary embodiments, a
loupe attachment 101 may be attached or attachable to other face wear other thanglasses 100. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, aloupe attachment 101 may be built into or attachable to safety glasses, which may include, for example, a top shield, one or more side shields, and a bottom shield. This may allow theloupe attachment 101 to be used in roles in which the user would have to meet certain occupational safety requirements, such as, for example, certain laboratory work. - According to some other exemplary embodiments, a
loupe attachment 101, or a component thereof, may be attached or attachable to other headwear other thanglasses 100 or face wear. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, one or moreoptical devices 104 may be attached to a hat, visor, headband, or another item of headwear, and may be suspended in front of or otherwise put in combination with the remainder of theloupe attachment 101, for example by one of the connection mechanisms (such as a telescoping bar) previously discussed with regard to theglasses 100 or other face wear. - The foregoing description and accompanying figures illustrate the principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of the invention. However, the invention should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. Additional variations of the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
- Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that variations to those embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
Claims (14)
1. A loupe attachment apparatus, comprising:
an optical element, configured to be linked to a set of eyewear configured to be wearable by a user, comprising:
an optical device; and
a loupe, attached to the optical device;
wherein the optical device and the loupe are configured to be disposed such that, when the support element is attached to the set of eyewear, a beam path extends through the loupe and the optical device and is directed toward the eyewear; and
wherein a non-zero angle is created between the beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the beam path upon being directed toward the eyewear. (FIG. 5, 6A, 7A )
2. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the loupe is rigidly connected to a lens of the set of eyewear, with the axis of the loupe being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the lens, and the optical device is rotatably connected to the loupe by a connecting element or rigidly connected to the loupe. (FIG. 5, 7A )
3. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the connecting element comprises at least one of: a clasp, a clamp, or an anchor.
4. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a support element, the support element being configured to be attached to a frame of the set of eyewear and link the optical element to the eyewear.
5. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the support element comprises a plurality of connectors, each of the plurality of connectors being separately attachable to the frame of the eyewear, each of the connectors further being linked to the optical device.
6. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 5 , wherein each of the plurality of connectors is adjustable in at least one degree of freedom.
7. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 6 , wherein each of the connectors comprises at least one of a clamp, a slide, or a swivel, and wherein each of the connectors further comprises a pressure screw configured to lock or unlock movement of the connector.
8. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the support element further comprises a loupe support configured to link the loupe to the optical device. (FIG. 10 )
9. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the support element further comprises a loupe support configured to link the loupe to the frame. (FIG. 8 )
10. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the support element comprises a main element configured to be rigidly attached to the frame of the eyewear.
11. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the support element further comprises a telescopic connection extending from the main element, and wherein the telescopic connection is connected to the optical device. (FIGS. 1 and 2 , one piece)
12. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the support element further comprises a telescopic connection attached to and extending from the frame, and wherein the telescopic connection is connected to the optical device. (FIG. 3 , three piece)
13. The loupe attachment apparatus of claim 1 , comprising two of the loupes,
wherein the optical device and the two loupes are configured to be disposed such that, when the support element is attached to the set of eyewear, a beam path extends through the two loupes and the optical device and is directed toward the eyewear; and
wherein a non-zero angle is created between the beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the beam path upon being directed toward the eyewear.
14. A loupe suspension system, comprising:
eyewear configured to be wearable by a user, the eyewear comprising a frame;
a support element affixed to the eyewear; and
an optical element, configured to be linked to the support element, comprising:
an optical device; and
a loupe;
wherein the optical device and the loupe are configured to be disposed such that, when the support element is attached to the set of eyewear, a beam path extends through the loupe and the optical device and is directed toward the eyewear; and
wherein a non-zero angle is created between the beam path entering the loupe attachment apparatus and the beam path upon being directed toward the eyewear.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/834,310 US20180101029A1 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2017-12-07 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
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US201562207096P | 2015-08-19 | 2015-08-19 | |
US15/239,016 US9864214B2 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2016-08-17 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
US15/834,310 US20180101029A1 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2017-12-07 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
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US15/239,016 Continuation US9864214B2 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2016-08-17 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
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US15/239,016 Active US9864214B2 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2016-08-17 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
US15/834,310 Abandoned US20180101029A1 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2017-12-07 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
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US15/239,016 Active US9864214B2 (en) | 2015-08-19 | 2016-08-17 | Loupe attachment apparatus and system |
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GB2536650A (en) | 2015-03-24 | 2016-09-28 | Augmedics Ltd | Method and system for combining video-based and optic-based augmented reality in a near eye display |
IL244255A (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2017-04-30 | Vertical Optics Llc | Wearable vision redirecting devices |
WO2019211741A1 (en) | 2018-05-02 | 2019-11-07 | Augmedics Ltd. | Registration of a fiducial marker for an augmented reality system |
US11766296B2 (en) | 2018-11-26 | 2023-09-26 | Augmedics Ltd. | Tracking system for image-guided surgery |
US11980506B2 (en) | 2019-07-29 | 2024-05-14 | Augmedics Ltd. | Fiducial marker |
US11382712B2 (en) | 2019-12-22 | 2022-07-12 | Augmedics Ltd. | Mirroring in image guided surgery |
WO2022056153A1 (en) * | 2020-09-09 | 2022-03-17 | Alia Hakim | Visual loupes with point of view modification |
US11061257B1 (en) * | 2020-09-09 | 2021-07-13 | Alia Hakim | Visual loupes with point of view modification |
CN112203250A (en) * | 2020-11-04 | 2021-01-08 | 深圳市恒必达电子科技有限公司 | Intelligent glasses control method and device for monitoring sitting posture, storage medium and system |
US11896445B2 (en) | 2021-07-07 | 2024-02-13 | Augmedics Ltd. | Iliac pin and adapter |
WO2024057210A1 (en) | 2022-09-13 | 2024-03-21 | Augmedics Ltd. | Augmented reality eyewear for image-guided medical intervention |
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Also Published As
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US20170052391A1 (en) | 2017-02-23 |
US9864214B2 (en) | 2018-01-09 |
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