The Pachycam is designed to photograph the eye and take Scheimpflug images of the anterior segment of the eye to evaluate the thickness of the cornea. The implanted keratometer measures the central radii of the cornea.
Device Story
Pachycam is a portable, AC-powered, non-invasive diagnostic system for anterior eye-segment imaging. It utilizes the Scheimpflug principle for slit-image photography. Input consists of blue light (455nm, UV-free) slit illumination of the eye; a CCD camera captures the resulting images. The device features a head-stabilizing chin/forehead rest, external fixation target, and joystick control. Used in hospitals or ambulances by clinicians. The system captures 5 images per series. Digital data is displayed on a CPU for clinician review. Output allows evaluation of corneal thickness and central corneal radii, aiding in clinical assessment of the anterior segment. Benefits include non-invasive diagnostic capability for corneal analysis.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data. Effectiveness demonstrated through internal company studies and bench testing confirming performance of the Scheimpflug imaging system and keratometry measurements.
Technological Characteristics
Scheimpflug-based slit-image photography; blue LED (455nm) illumination; infrared LED (800nm) for pupil observation; CCD camera; CPU-based digital display. Housing constructed of specially treated, non-inflammable polyurethane. Portable form factor (1kg). Power: 110/220 VAC, 50/60Hz. Non-invasive contact via chin/forehead rest.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients requiring anterior eye-segment imaging and corneal thickness evaluation, including central corneal radius measurement.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An AC-powered slitlamp biomicroscope is an AC-powered device that is a microscope intended for use in eye examination that projects into a patient's eye through a control diaphragm a thin, intense beam of light.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The device, when it is intended only for the visual examination of the anterior segment of the eye, is classified as Group 1 per FDA-recognized consensus standard ANSI Z80.36, does not provide any quantitative output, and is not intended for screening or automated diagnostic indications, is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 886.9.
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Description of the Pachycam Scheimpflug Camera
JAN 2 8 2005
Image /page/0/Picture/2 description: The image shows a logo with a geometric design above the word "OCULUS". The geometric design features a stylized shape resembling a mountain or a stylized letter "M", with additional lines and shapes within it. The word "OCULUS" is written in a blocky, sans-serif font, with each letter clearly defined.
# K041841 510(K) SUMMARY Substantially equivalent
General Information
| Applicant's Name and Address: | OCULUS Optikgeräte GmbH |
|-------------------------------|---------------------------|
| | Münchholzhäuser Straße 29 |
| | D-35582 Wetzlar |
| Date of Summary: | 17 June 2004 |
| Owner/Operator Number: | 8010318 |
| Contact person: | Mr. Joerg Iwanczuk |
| | Product Manager |
| Device Name | |
|----------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Trade Name: | Pachycam |
| Class: | Class II |
| Classification Name: | Scheimpflug Camera |
| Product Code: | MXK Anterior Eye-Segment Analysis System |
| Regulation Number: | 886.1850 |
### Predicate Devices
The Pachycam is claimed to be substantially equivalent to the following currently market device:
Pentacam, Scheimpflug Camera, OCULUS Optikgeraete GmbH, Germany; K 030179
## Device Description:
The Pachycam is a non-invasive, diagnostic system created to take photos of the anterior segment of the eye, portable and AC powered. The system is based on the Scheimpflug Principle for Slit Image photography. The device consists of a measurement unit, power supply and a CPU. The measuring system uses blue light (UV-free) given to a slit to illuminate the eye, and a CCD-Camera for photography. The device takes a series of the anterior segment of the eye from one fixed location (180°) and analyses one, selected by software.
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# Product Comparison
Image /page/1/Picture/2 description: The image shows a logo with a geometric design. The upper part of the logo features a stylized star-like shape with an eye-like symbol in the center. Below the geometric shape, the word "OCULUS" is written in a blocky, sans-serif font, with each letter clearly defined.
| | OCULUS Pentacam | New device, Pachycam |
|---------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Manufacturer | OCULUS Optikgeräte GmbH | OCULUS Optikgeräte GmbH |
| Measuring Principle | Scheimpflug Principle for Slit<br>Image photography | Scheimpflug Principle for<br>Slit Image photography |
| Optical | Please refer to the detailed description | |
| Observation<br>Illumination | Infrared LED 800nm for pupil<br>illumination | Infrared LED 800nm for<br>pupil illumination |
| Flash Output<br>Illumination | Blue LED Light (UV-free)<br>475nm, max. 2.5W Power<br>Input | Blue LED Light (UV-free)<br>455nm, max. 2.5W Power<br>Input |
| Camera | CCD-Camera | CCD-Camera |
| Display | Data digital, displayed on a<br>CPU | Data digital, displayed on<br>a CPU |
| Image resolution | 800 x 600 pixel | 640 x 480 pixel |
| Measuring points | 500 per image | 600 per image |
| Image size | 5.6 x 4.5mm | 4.8mm x 3.6mm |
| Photographic range | Eligible 0 to 360°<br>automatically | Fixed slit position in 180° |
| Photographic Series | 1 to 50 photos | 5 images |
| Exposure Control | Fixed during calibration, max<br>2.5Wsec. Power input | Fixed during calibration,<br>max 2.5Wsec. Power<br>input |
| Slit Length | 14mm fixed | 5mm fixed |
| Illumination time during<br>alignment | Limited to 300 seconds | Limited to 300 seconds |
| Where used | Hospital, ambulance | Hospital, ambulance |
| Intended use | Please refer to the detailed description | |
| Sterilisation | Please refer to the detailed description | |
| Materials | Housing is made of steel, the<br>back is made of Polyurethane,<br>specially treated, not | Housing is made of<br>Polyurethane, specially<br>treated, not inflammable |
| | inflammable | OCULUS |
| Mechanical safety | Please refer to the detailed description | |
| Power supply | External, 110/220 VAC, 50/60Hz | External, 110/220 VAC, 50/60Hz |
| Power Consumption | 50VA | 27 VA |
| Power requirement | 25 VDC 2A / 5 VDC 2A | 9 VDC, 3A |
| Weight | 9 kg | 1 kg |
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## Basics for Substantial Equivalence
Image /page/3/Picture/2 description: The image shows a logo with the word "OCULUS" in block letters at the bottom. Above the word is a stylized symbol that resembles a star or crown shape. Inside the star shape is a design that looks like an eye or lens. The logo is simple and geometric in style.
The systems utilize the same or similar Operating System. It contain
- an optical system, .
- a source of illumination for observation and photography, .
- a CCD-Camera as photographic medium, .
Both systems have the same intended use, to measure the anterior eye segment
Both systems use the same device features like a
- . head stabilizing device
- external fixation target .
- joy stick for control mechanism. .
Both systems are considered "Non Invasive" as defined in 21 CFR §812.3(k) and considered not to be a "Significant Risk Device" as defined in 21 CFR §812.3(m)
## Indications for Use
Intended Use:
The Pachycam is designed to photograph the eye and take Scheimpflug images of the anterior segment of the eye to evaluate the thickness of the cornea. The implanted keratometer measures the central radii of the cornea.
## Safety
The Pachycam is a non-invasive diagnostic system, which contacts the patient only on his/her chin and forehead. The Pachycam does not present or pose any new or additional effects for risk on the safety prescribed intended uses. The light output is of an eye safe intensity and wavelength. The electrical safety requirements for medical devices are met. The Pachycam is proven effective for its intended uses through internal company studies.
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Image /page/4/Picture/1 description: The image shows the seal of the Department of Health & Human Services - USA. The seal is circular and contains the department's name around the perimeter. In the center of the seal is an abstract symbol that resembles an eagle or bird-like figure.
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
JAN 2 8 2005
OCULUS Optikgeräte GmbH c/o Mr. Joerg Iwanczuk Dutenhofen Münchholzhäuser Strasse 29 D-35582 Wetzlar Germany
Re: K041841
Trade/Device Name: Pachycam Scheimpflug Camera Regulation Number: 21 CFR 886.1850 Regulation Name: AC-powered slitlamp biomicroscope Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: MXK Dated: December 23, 2004 Received: January 4, 2005
Dear Mr. Iwanczuk:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (OS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
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Page 2 - Mr. Joerg Iwanczuk
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4613. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmamain.html
Sincerely yours,
A helyi Rosenthal
A. Ralph Rosenthal, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic and Ear, Nose and Throat Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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Image /page/6/Picture/0 description: The image shows a logo with the word "OCULUS" written in a blocky, sans-serif font. Above the word, there is a stylized graphic that resembles a star or a geometric shape with a curved line and a small circle inside, possibly representing an eye. The logo is simple and appears to be in black and white.
Description of the Pachycam Scheimpflug Camera
#### 10 Intended use
510(k) number: k_04/84/
Device name: Pachycam Scheimpflug Camera
Indications For Use:
The Pachycam is designed to photograph the eye and take Scheimpflug images of the anterior segment of the eye to evaluate the thickness of the cornea. The implanted keratometer measures the central radii of the cornea.
| Prescription Use<br>(Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) | ✓ |
|-------------------------------------------------|---|
|-------------------------------------------------|---|
AND/OR
| Over-The-Counter Use<br>(21 CFR 801 Subpart C) | |
|------------------------------------------------|--|
|------------------------------------------------|--|
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Ophthalmic Ear, Nose and Throat Devices
K041841 510 (k) Number_
(Optional Format 3-10-98)
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Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
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Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
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Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
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Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
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Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
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What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
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Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
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Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.