Lasers were used to directly scan the retina in the early 80s1. These devices are called scanning laser ophthalmoscopes (SLO) and make it possible to obtain large field fundus images with high contrast and resolution yet with a lower illumination than conventional imaging systems. It was shown that these scanners could also stimulate the visual process and interest grew in using this technology for “virtual reality” displays2. A simple equation is developed to express permissible power output of a VRD based upon the ANSI Z136.1-1993. An equation is also proposed for permissible powers for multi-wavelength displays.
REFERENCES
1.
Li
Ling
and Rosenshein
Joseph S.
“Safety Considerations for Simultaneous Multiple Wavelength Exposure in Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopes
.” Health Physics
. Vol. 64
:(February 1993
). Page 170
.2.
de Witt
G. C.
“Safety Norms for Maxwellian View Laser Scanning Devices Based on the ANSI Standards
.” Health Physics
. Vol. 71
(5
):(November, 1996
). Pages 766
–769
.3.
Robinson
Gail
“Display prototype uses eye’s retina as screen
.” Electronic Engineering Times
. April 1, 1996
.4.
Virre
Erik
, Johnston
Richard
, Pryor
Homer
, Nagata
Satoru
, and Furness
Thomas A.
III “Laser safety analysis of a retinal scanning display system
.” Jounal of Laser Applications
. Vol. 9
(5
) (October 1997
). Pages 253
–260
.5.
American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers, Z136.1-1993.
6.
Technical Bulletin Medical 524, United States Army, 1985.
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1999 Laser Institute of America.
1999
Laser Institute of America
You do not currently have access to this content.