Wavefront sensor to replace the optician ?

17 Jun 2002

Eye examinations at the opticians could become more accurate and much less subjective with a wavefront sensing system.

Based on a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor, which detects the "ripples" of light waves reflected when a laser hits an object, the Complete Ophthalmic Analysis System from WaveFront Sciences, of Albuquerque, NM, can tell opticians precisely what prescription a particular eye needs.

Another application is as a precursor to laser eye surgery, as the system can create a detailed map of the eye.

The system is a spin-off of similar technology used in more conventional optical metrology applications, such as checking the shape of components on a production line. For example, another Shack-Hartmann sensor system made by French company Imagine Optics is used on a Ford production line in Bordeaux, to ensure quality control of the shape of pinions used in gearbox production. MH

Story courtesy of Opto and Laser Europe magazine.