Laser reprofiling system employing an erodable mask
US5019074A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 11, 1989 |
| Grant date | May 28, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 11, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2009/00872
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A laser system for reprofiling a surface comprising a laser and an erodable mask disposed between the laser means and the surface for providing a predefined profile of resistance to erosion by laser radiation, and control for controlling the laser such that upon irradiation of the mask, a portion of the laser radiation is selectively absorbed and another portion is transmitted to the surface in accordance with the mask profile to selectively erode the surface. The mask can be connected to the support structure and disposed in optical alignment with the laser means and the cornea. The mask can be directed integrated with the support structure or, preferably, a transparent stage can be formed as part of the support structure to support and position the masking lens. In one preferred embodiment, the mask is spatially separated from the surface and imaged onto the surface, thereby permitting the use of an oversized mask, which is easier to form.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.