Adjustable binocular optical systems methods for adjusting same

Abstract

Described are various embodiments of a binocular optical system with adjustable monocular positioning and related methods for adjusting same. In one embodiment, a system comprises a binocular optical system, comprising: a digital display; a first monocular subassembly comprising a first eyepiece and defining a first optical path therethrough between said first eyepiece and said digital display; a second monocular subassembly comprising a second eyepiece and defining a second optical path therethrough between said second eyepiece and said digital display; wherein said digital display is operated to project respective first and second pixelated content through said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece, respectively; and wherein the system further comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a relative position of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece so to substantially correspond with a user's interpupillary distance in order to optimize viewing of said respective first and second pixelated content.

Description

ADJUSTABLE BINOCULAR OPTICAL SYSTEMS METHODS FOR ADJUSTING SAMEFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure relates to binocular optical devices and systems, and in particular, to an adjustable binocular optical systems and methods for adjusting same.BACKGROUND

[0002] Interpupillary distance (IPD) reflects the distance between the center of an individual’s pupils when gazing straight ahead. An individual’s IPD can be accurately measured by an optometrist or otherwise can be measured at home using a ruler. Knowledge of an individual’s IPD is important to ensure, for example, that when wearing prescription glasses, the individual gazes through the correct positioning on the lenses.

[0003] Knowledge of an individual’s IPD is also an important consideration when selecting a virtual reality (VR) or artificial reality (AR) headset, particularly since it determines the individual’s degree of horizontal retinal image disparity which impacts stcrcopsis. In order to most closely match how an individual perceives the real world through their own IPD, the VR or AR headset should align as close as possible with their IPD. Should the IPD of the headset be even slightly offset from the individual’s IPD, the scale of the augmented or virtual world will appear to the individual to be incorrect. Yet further, since headsets are designed to be viewed through the optical center of the lens or lenses, if the individual’s eyes are misaligned therewith, the individual will perceive reduced clarity and field of view, negatively impacting the visual quality of the VR or AR.

[0004] VR and AR headsets typically allow for physical IPD adjustment. Certain headsets provide for software based IPD adjustments, which in essence correct the sense of scale as opposed to the physical positioning. In both cases, prior knowledge of the individual’s accurate IPD is crucial.

[0005] This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should beconstrued, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art or forms part of the general common knowledge in the relevant art.SUMMARY

[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of the general inventive concept(s) described herein to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is not intended to restrict key or critical elements of embodiments of the disclosure or to delineate their scope beyond that which is explicitly or implicitly described by the following description and claims.

[0007] A need exists for adjustable binocular optical systems and methods for adjusting same that overcome some of the drawbacks of known techniques, or at least, provides a useful alternative thereto. Some aspects of this disclosure provide examples of such binocular optical systems and methods for adjusting same.

[0008] In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a binocular optical system, comprising: a digital display; a first monocular subassembly comprising a first eyepiece and defining a first optical path therethrough between said first eyepiece and said digital display; a second monocular subassembly comprising a second eyepiece and defining a second optical path therethrough between said second eyepiece and said digital display; wherein said digital display is operated to project respective first and second pixelated content through said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece, respectively; and wherein the system further comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a relative position of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece so to substantially correspond with a user’s interpupillary distance in order to optimize viewing of said respective first and second pixelated content.

[0009] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece.

[0010] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is operable in response to subjective user perception feedback.

[0011] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is operable via a mechanical input mechanism.

[0012] In one embodiment, the system further comprises an interpupillary distance sensor configured to sense said user’s interpupillary distance, and a digital processor in communication with said interpupillary distance sensor and said adjustment mechanism so as to automatically adjust said adjustment mechanism as a function of said user’s interpupillary distance.

[0013] In one embodiment, said interpupillary distance sensor comprises respective gaze sensors operable to sense respective gaze directions as the user focuses their gaze on said respective first and second pixelated content.

[0014] In one embodiment, said interpupillary distance sensor comprises a camera to capture camera feed data of both eyes of said user.

[0015] In one embodiment, said camera feed data captured is communicated to said digital processor so as to determine any one or both of pupil location and said interpupillary distance, of said user.

[0016] In one embodiment, said camera feed data is captured during or after adjustment of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece and wherein said camera feed data is communicated to said digital processor so as to determine whether erroneous adjustment of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece occurred.

[0017] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece in a horizontal plane.

[0018] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a mounting assembly defining a horizontal adjustment range within which any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally positionable.

[0019] In one embodiment, any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second cycpiccc arc horizontally adjustable via a corresponding horizontal adjustment of any one or both of said first monocular subassembly or said second monocular subassembly.

[0020] In one embodiment, each of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece are fixedly assembled within each of said corresponding first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly such that said adjustment mechanism adjusts said relative distance by adjusting a relative distance between said first monocular assembly and said second monocular assembly.

[0021] In one embodiment, each of said first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly comprises a respective digital display operated to respectively project said first and second pixelated content.

[0022] In one embodiment, each said respective digital display comprises a light field display.

[0023] In one embodiment, each said light field display comprises an array of digital pixels and an array of light field shaping elements disposed relative thereto so to adjust a user perception of each of said first and second pixelated content.

[0024] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism comprises respective motor assemblies and respective linear translation assemblies arranged so as to translate rotational movement in a relative horizontal movement of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece.

[0025] In one embodiment, each of said respective motor assemblies comprise a stepper motor.

[0026] In one embodiment, the system comprises a light field refractor.

[0027] In one embodiment, user perception of said respective first and second pixelated content is adjusted as a function of subjective user feedback in subjectively assessing a visual acuity of the user.

[0028] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a binocular light field refractor for assessing a visual acuity of a user, comprising: a light field display; a first monocular subassembly comprising a first eyepiece and defining a first optical path therethrough between said first eyepiece and said light field display; a second monocular subassembly comprising a second eyepiece and defining a second optical path therethrough between said second eyepiece and said light field display; wherein said light field display is operated to project respective first and second pixelated content through said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece, respectively, wherein a user perception of said first and second pixelated content is adjusted in response to subjective user feedback in assessing the user’s visual acuity; and wherein the system further comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a relative position of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece so to substantially correspond with a user’s interpupillary distance in order to optimize the user perception of said first and second pixelated content.

[0029] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece in a horizontal plane.

[0030] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is operable in response to subjective user perception feedback.

[0031] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism is operable via a mechanical input mechanism.

[0032] In one embodiment, the system further comprises an interpupillary distance sensor configured to sense said user’s interpupillary distance, and a digital processor in communication with said interpupillary distance sensor and said adjustment mechanism so as to automatically adjust said adjustment mechanism as a function of said user’s interpupillary distance.

[0033] In one embodiment, said interpupillary distance sensor comprises respective gaze sensors operable to sense respective gaze directions as the user focuses their gaze on said respective first and second pixelated content.

[0034] In one embodiment, said interpupillary distance sensor comprises a camera to capture camera feed data of both eyes of said user, wherein said camera feed data captured is communicated to said digital processor so as to determine any one or both of pupil location and said interpupillary distance, of said user.

[0035] In one embodiment, the refractor further comprising a mounting assembly defining a horizontal adjustment range within which any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally positionable, wherein any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally adjustable via a corresponding horizontal adjustment of any one or both of said first monocular subassembly or said second monocular subassembly.

[0036] In one embodiment, each of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece are fixedly assembled within each of said corresponding first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly such that said adjustment mechanism adjusts said relative distance by adjusting a relative distance between said first monocular assembly and said second monocular assembly.

[0037] In one embodiment, each of said first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly comprises a respective light field display operated to respectively project said first and second pixclatcd content, wherein each said light field display comprises an array of digital pixels and an array of light field shaping elements disposed relative thereto so to adjust said user perception.

[0038] In one embodiment, said adjustment mechanism comprises a single motor assembly and associate linear translation assembly arranged so as to translate rotational movement in a relative horizontal movement of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece.

[0039] In one embodiment, said single motor assembly comprises a stepper motor.

[0040] Other aspects, features and / or advantages will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of specific embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0041] Several embodiments of the present disclosure will be provided, by way of examples only, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

[0042] Figure 1 is a front side perspective view of a binocular optical system with adjustable monocular positioning (“system”), in accordance with one embodiment;

[0043] Figure 2 is a front top perspective view of the system shown in Figure 1;

[0044] Figure 3 is a top first side perspective view of the system shown in Figures 1 and 2;

[0045] Figure 4 is a first side view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 3;

[0046] Figure 5 is a front side perspective view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 4, with an exemplary mounting body of the system removed to more clearly illustrate certain features, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0047] Figure 6 is a front side perspective view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 5, with the exemplary mounting body of the system included to more clearly illustrate certain features, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0048] Figure 7 is a front side perspective view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 6, with an exemplary mounting plate of the system included to more clearly illustrate certain features, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0049] Figure 8 is a rear first side perspective view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 7, illustrating an exemplary interpupillary distance sensor, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0050] Figure 9 is a rear second side perspective view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 8, illustrating further the arrangement of the exemplary interpupillary distance sensor;

[0051] Figure 10 is a front view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 9, illustrating a smallest intcrpupillary distance which is accommodatablc, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0052] Figure 11 is a front view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 10, illustrating a largest intcrpupillary distance which is accommodatable, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0053] Figure 12 is a front view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 11, encased within an exemplary housing, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0054] Figure 13 is a side view of the system shown in Figures 1 to 11, encased within another exemplary housing, in accordance with another embodiment;

[0055] Figure 14 is a front perspective view of an eyepiece comprising an IR camera system, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0056] Figure 15 is a rear perspective view of the eyepiece of Figure 14, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0057] Figure 16 is a front side perspective view of a binocular optical system with adjustable monocular positioning (“system”), in accordance with another embodiment;

[0058] Figure 17 is a side view of the system of Figure 16;

[0059] Figure 18 is another front side perspective view of the binocular optical system of Figure 16, partially disassembled to illustrate some of the underlying components thereof;

[0060] Figure 19 is a front side perspective view of a binocular optical system with adjustable monocular positioning (“system”) and operated using a singular stepper motor, in accordance with another embodiment;

[0061] Figure 20 is a rear side perspective view of the system of Figure 19; and

[0062] Figure 21 is a side cross section view of a stepper motor assembly of the system of Figure 19.

[0063] Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating understanding of the various presently disclosed embodiments. Also, common, but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Various implementations and aspects of the specification will be described with reference to details discussed below. The following description and drawings are illustrative of the specification and are not to be construed as limiting the specification. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of various implementations of the present specification. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to provide a concise discussion of implementations of the present specification.

[0065] Various apparatuses and processes will be described below to provide examples of implementations of the system disclosed herein. No implementation described below limits any claimed implementation and any claimed implementations may cover processes or apparatuses that differ from those described below. The claimed implementations are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses or processes described below. It is possible that an apparatus or process described below is not an implementation of any claimed subject matter.

[0066] Furthermore, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the implementations described herein. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the relevant arts that the implementations described hereinmay be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the implementations described herein.

[0067] In this specification, elements may be described as “configured to” perform one or more functions or “configured for” such functions. In general, an element that is configured to perform or configured for performing a function is enabled to perform the function, or is suitable for performing the function, or is adapted to perform the function, or is operable to perform the function, or is otherwise capable of performing the function.

[0068] It is understood that for the purpose of this specification, language of “at least one of X, Y, and Z” and “one or more of X, Y and Z” may be construed as X only, Y only, Z only, or any combination of two or more items X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XY, YZ, ZZ, and the like). Similar logic may be applied for two or more items in any occurrence of “at least one ...” and “one or more...” language.

[0069] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0070] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The phrase “in one of the embodiments” or “in at least one of the various embodiments” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, though it may. Furthermore, the phrase “in another embodiment” or “in some embodiments” as used herein does not necessarily refer to a different embodiment, although it may. Thus, as described below, various embodiments may be readily combined, without departing from the scope or spirit of the innovations disclosed herein.

[0071] In addition, as used herein, the term “or” is an inclusive “or” operator, and is equivalent to the term “and / or,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “based on” is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional factors not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout the specification, themeaning of "a," "an," and "the" include plural references. The meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on."

[0072] The term “comprising” as used herein will be understood to mean that the list following is non-exhaustive and may or may not include any other additional suitable items, for example one or more further feature(s), component(s) and / or element(s) as appropriate.

[0073] The term “binocular” as used in this specification refers generally to an optical device or system generally configured or adapted for both eyes of a user. As such, “binocular” may refer to any device or system providing two distinct viewing channels through which each respective eye can observe, either separately or jointly. Thus, “binocular” may include any one or more of the following non-limiting examples: refractive devices for eye testing or cognitive testing, binoculars, smart goggles or headsets, virtual reality (VR) goggles or headsets, augmented reality (AR) goggles or headsets, or the like. Similarly, the term “monocular” as used herein refers generally to any device or system providing a singular viewing channel through which an eye of a user can observe whether separately from or jointly with the other eye. As will be described in greater detail below, a binocular- system may comprise respective monocular- subassemblies that each provide a corresponding optical path.

[0074] The term “refractive optical element” as used in this specification refers generally to one or more optical elements disposed along a viewing or optical path, and / or within a viewing or optical channel, to refract light channeled therethrough in accordance with a designated optical purpose or application. For instance, a refractive optical element may be used to adjust a focus, collimate, redirect, bend, combine, and / or otherwise optically manipulate input light to produce a desired optical effect. In some embodiments, a “tunable” refractive optical element is disclosed in which an optical property of the element, notably a refractive power or effect of the element, can be dynamically adjusted to provide a dynamically or selectively variable refractive optical effect. In some particular embodiments, a refractive optical element will comprise a lens, such as a tunable lens, which may refer to a single lens or two or more lenses, in different embodiments anddepending largely on the optical system application, although not limited thereto. In some embodiments, as the context will indicate, the term “lens” may refer to a plurality of lenses arranged or otherwise combined to provide a resulting compound optical effect along an optical path or within a single optical channel. Furthermore, a lens may also or alternatively refer to a lens system or the like in which a complex or multiple optical paths and / or channels are deployed and in which a same or respective lenses are employed. In yet other embodiments, the refractive optical element will comprise a waveguide or the like.

[0075] The systems and methods described herein provide, in accordance with different embodiments, different examples in which a binocular optical system, having respective first and second monoculars or monocular subassemblies, is adjustable to accommodate different interpupillary distances of different users. In particular, some embodiments provide for systems and methods wherein the interpupillary distance (IPD) of a particular user is determined and the positioning of one or both of the first and second optical paths defined by the respective monoculars is adjusted such that the inter-optical path distance defined between them is adjusted to suit the IPD of the particular user. For example, in some embodiments, a relative distance between the respective monocular eyepieces is adjusted independently of other monocular components via appropriate intervening monocular optics, whereas in other embodiments, relative monocular distancing is adjusted as a whole with each eyepiece fixedly mounted as part of each monocular optical path. As such, while particular optical designs are described herein in which fixed monocular subassemblies are relatively displaceable so to effectively displace monocular eyepieces to accommodate a user’s IPD, other embodiments may encompass optical designs in which an IPD is accommodated via a relative positioning of respective monocular eyepieces without entirely displacing an entire monocular subassembly. Accordingly, unless explicitly specified otherwise, description of the relative positioning of monoculars to accommodate a user’ s IPD will equally describe embodiments in which the respective eyepieces are moved independently of other monocular components as well as embodiments in which an entire monocular subassembly is translated.

[0076] In some embodiments, the positioning or adjustment of the monocular(s) / cycpiccc(s) is fully automated. In others, certain user input and / or fine tuning of certain parameters is required or advantageous.

[0077] In some embodiments, the systems and methods disclosed herein provide for adjustable monocular positioning with highly accurate alignment to the IPD of a particular user and / or respective users. This is achieved at least in part in some embodiments by employing a linear servomechanism or belt-driven servomechanism (or servo) which precisely controls the adjustment of the monocular(s). Some embodiments provide specifically for robust and reliable systems and methods configured for repeated adjustment of the monoculars, without undue wear and tear, such as would be suitable for use in clinical or retail settings, where tens or more users may make use of the system or method in a single day.

[0078] In some embodiments, the systems and methods disclosed herein provide adjustable monocular’ positioning where the mechanical and / or electronic componentry for IPD detection of a particular user and / or monocular adjustability is arranged or configured in a manner so as to not obstruct the optical viewing channels or paths. In some embodiments, the componentry for IPD detection and / or monocular adjustability is arranged or configured in a manner so as to manage or maintain even heat distribution within a housing of the optical system (or put differently, avoid excessive temperatures so as to maintain the system within a favourable temperature range). In some embodiments, the componentry for IPD detection and / or monocular adjustability is arranged about componentry for the thermal regulation of the optical system and specifically, for the thermal regulation of the tunable refractive optical elements in some embodiments.

[0079] With reference now to Figures 1 to 13, and in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, a binocular optical system with adjustable monocular positioning, generally referred to using reference numeral 100, will now be described.

[0080] In this embodiment, the system 100 generally comprises a mounting assembly 102, a first monocular 104 mounted to said mounting assembly 102 and defining a first optical path 106 therethrough (via a first eyepiece), and a second monocular 108 mountedto said mounting assembly 102 and defining a second optical path 1 10 therethrough (via a second eyepiece). As such, the first and second monoculars 104, 108 (collectively “monoculars” for brevity) thereby define an inter-optical path distance 112 between the first and second optical paths 106, 110 (collectively “optical paths” for brevity), notably defining a relative distance between the first and second eyepieces. In this embodiment, the system 100 further comprises an adjustment mechanism 114 configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 relative to said mounting assembly 102 so as to at least substantially align said inter-optical path distance 112 with an IPD of a user (not shown). Accordingly, a relative distance between the eyepieces can be adjusted to substantially correspond with the user’s IPD, in this embodiment, by adjusting a relative position of each monocular subassembly.

[0081] In this embodiment, the mounting assembly 102 generally comprises several mounting components and / or subassemblies which work cooperatively to mount various components and / or subsystems of the system 100, including refraction subsystems, cooling subsystems, electronic subsystems, processing subsystems and / or the like, as herein described and illustrated. In this embodiment, the mounting assembly 102 defines several layers, including a mounting body 116 and a mounting plate 118 positioned above it, although other structural configurations are envisaged in other embodiments.

[0082] As shown in Figure 2, the mounting body 116 is configured in this embodiment to support the monoculars 104, 108 on an underside of the mounting body 116, specifically within respective, parallel channels 120. The mounting body 116 is also configured to receive therein the adjustment mechanism(s) 114 on each opposing side of the mounting body 116, in proximity to the respective monoculars 104, 108. As will be described hereunder, each adjustment mechanism 114 is mechanically connected to the respective monocular 104, 108 through the mounting body 116. The mounting body 116 defines an upper mounting body surface (or main mounting plate, see Figure 6) on which further componentry is mountable. As shown in Figure 7, the mounting plate 118 is positioned above the mounting body 116, using vertical mounts 122 which support the mounting plate 118 above the upper mounting body surface. In this embodiment, the vertical mounts 122 create space beneath the mounting plate 118 for further componentry. In this embodiment,the mounting plate 118 supports thereon a digital processor 124, which forms part of the system 100.

[0083] In this embodiment, the monoculars 104, 108 are substantially similar, although generally mirror images of one another, as shown in Figures 10 and 11. In this embodiment, the monoculars 104, 108 each comprise respective tunable refractive optical elements (not specifically shown) stably mounted therein to apply tunable refraction along the optical paths 106, 110, respectively. As shown, each monocular 104, 108 in this embodiment comprises a monocular casing which defines the optical paths 106, 110 (specifically, by means of optical channels) therethrough. Furthermore, each monocular 104, 108 in this embodiment comprises an eyepiece on a front end through which a user would gaze into the optical paths 106, 110. In this embodiment, the tunable refractive optical elements are favourably operable within a designated (favourable) thermal operating range and specifically comprise tunable liquid lenses, although not limited thereto.

[0084] In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 114 is specifically configured to adjust the position of both of the monoculars 104, 108. More specifically, the adjustment mechanism 114 is configured to adjust the position of both of the monoculars 104, 108 in a horizontal plane. In this particular embodiment, the monoculars 104, 108 are respectively adjustable or positionable within a horizontal adjustment range (notably, without crossover in this embodiment) specifically defined by respective channels 120, with each monocular 104, 108 having its own horizontal adjustment range defined by its channel 120. Adjustment of the monoculars 104, 108 by the adjustment mechanism 114 is in response to adjustment instructions received, which may originate from one or more sources, as discussed below.

[0085] In this embodiment, each of the monoculars 104, 108 are adjustable or movable independently of the other. Accordingly, depending on the adjustment instructions received, the positioning of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 are adjusted by the adjustment mechanism 114. In this embodiment, the independency of each of the monoculars 104, 108 is achieved by the adjustment mechanism 114 comprising independent monocular adjustment assemblies, as described below.

[0086] In this embodiment, the system 100 is configured to accommodate user intcrpupillary distances of approximately 40 mm to approximately 75 mm. In this context, the term “approximately” is generally used to refer to a measurement differential of 5 mm above or 5 mm below the stated distance or distance range. It is to be appreciated, nonetheless, that the range of IDPs accommodated by the system 100 may vary in different embodiments, without limitation, depending on the use case.

[0087] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the system 100 further comprises an intcrpupillary distance sensor (IPD sensor) 126 configured to sense or measure the IPD of the user. Of course, the IPD is variable between different users. Notably, in this embodiment, due at least in part to the configuration of the system 100, the IPD sensed or measured is specifically the near pupillary distance (Near PD) of the user, that is, the distance between the centers of the pupils when observing a close or near object or target, such as that displayed by an active digital display (not shown) arranged within the monoculars 104, 108.

[0088] In this particular embodiment, the IPD sensor 126 specifically comprises a camera (noted as camera 210 in Figure 14) and associated software on a digital processor 124 which work collaboratively to record camera feed data of the eyes of the user, locate the pupils of each eye, determine a central point for each pupil and calculate the distance between these central points, that being the IPD of the user. In this embodiment, the camera specifically comprises one or more infrared (IR) cameras (e.g. one IR camera 210 per monocular as seen in Figure 14) and one or more IR light sources (e.g. IR light source 220 per monocular as also seen in Figure 14) strategically mounted within a peripheral region of each monocular eyecup. Related hardware 230 (see Figure 15) is mounted behind the eyecup to minimize obstruction of other device componentry. Indeed, special consideration can be made in this regard to the carefully position the IR lighting in a way as to not obstruct the optical path of the device (i.e. the main monocular optical path) while still allowing for the capture adequate data using the IR camera to process images of the user’s eyes in calculating the user IPD, for example, via a vision processing algorithm or the like.

[0089] Notably, in this embodiment, the camera and related software on the processor 124 may be considered to serve as a servomechanism for the precise control of the monoculars 104, 108, as described below. In this embodiment, the IPD sensor 126 is located behind the monoculars 104, 108, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, which in this embodiment, serves to create space in front of the digital processor 124. The IPD sensor 126 works in conjunction with an upright panel 128 on which a white surface is created. In one embodiment, the white surface is created with a piece of white paper being mounted thereto. In this embodiment, the system 100 further comprises an IPD cable guide 130 which is used to guide IDP sensor cables (not specifically shown) from the IPD sensor 126 to the digital processor 124. The IPD cable guide 130 in this embodiment specifically comprises a channel, as shown, which is attached to the upper mounting surface of the mounting body 116.

[0090] In an alternative embodiment, an IR triangulation sensor may be used in addition to, or instead of, the camera based IPD sensor described in more detail herein. For example, an IR triangulation sensor can be used to supplement a system as described herein, as can other distance measuring solutions.

[0091] As noted, the system 100 further comprises a digital processor 124 which is in communication with said IPD sensor 126 and the adjustment mechanism 114. The digital processor 124 in this embodiment is specifically configured to determine a current or existing monocular’ position of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108, determine a predefined monocular position suited for the IPD of the user (as sensed by the IPD sensor 126) and, if the current monocular position and the predefined monocular position mismatch or are not substantially aligned, the digital processor 124 will actuate the adjustment mechanism 114 such that the inter-optical path distance at least substantially aligns with the IPD of the user.

[0092] The digital processor 124 is further configured to control the system 100 and its componentry. In this embodiment, the digital processor 124 is further in communication, either directly or indirectly, with the tunable refractive optical elements provided in each monocular 104, 108, the active heat transfer devices associated with each monocular 104,108 (e.g., Peltier devices), and the adjustment mechanism 1 14 (e.g., respective stepper motors 138). Indeed, in this embodiment, the digital processor 124 comprises an embedded system having a combination of a computer processor or microcontroller, computer memory and input / output peripheral devices that contribute to various functions with respect to the aforementioned componentry, as will be elaborated on hereunder.

[0093] In this embodiment, the digital processor 124 is specifically configured, amongst other features, to determine the IPD in conjunction with the IPD sensor 126. In this embodiment, the digital processor 124 is further configured to automatically adjust the inter-optical path distance 112 via the positioning of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 based on the predefined monocular positioning suited to the IPD sensed. More specifically, once a user or healthcare provider activates the system 100, the IPD of the user is automatically sensed and the monocular positioning is automatically adjusted accordingly, if needed. In this embodiment, the digital processor 124 comprises a high- performance system-on-module (SOM). More specifically, the digital processor 124 comprises a NVIDIA® letson Xavier™, which provides an advanced graphics processing unit (GPU). It is to be appreciated that the digital processor 124 in this embodiment thus includes several integrated components which are well known to those skilled in the art and are thus omitted here for the sake of brevity, although forming pail of the scope of the instant disclosure. Notably, other embodiments may employ other computing or processing units, without limitation.

[0094] In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 114 is specifically configured to provide a servomechanism (or servo), whereby electrical signaling and / or circuitry from the digital processor 124 is converted into precise, controlled movement of the monocular(s) 104, 108 by means of negative feedback. More specifically, in this embodiment, error- sensing feedback from the camera (not shown), for example, can be used to correct the adjustment of the positioning of the monoculars 104, 108 and / or the speed of movement of the monoculars 104, 108 if any error is detected. Accordingly, the servo in this embodiment facilitates the mechanical movement and positioning of the monoculars 104, 108 to ensure the inter-optical path distance 112 at least substantiallymatches the IPD of a particular user. Servo-assisted embodiments such as this may be fully automated.

[0095] In alternative embodiments, the servos described herein may be replaced by alternative means such as hydraulics or pneumatics, or again by electrically expanding / contracting materials such as nitinol wires, for example.

[0096] In this embodiment, as noted above and shown in Figure 5, the adjustment mechanism 114 comprises two independent monocular adjustment assemblies which, in this embodiment, work cooperatively to provide precise, controlled movement of the monocular(s) 104, 108. In turn, each monocular adjustment assembly comprises a motor assembly 132 and a linear translation assembly 134 in this embodiment, as will now be described without limitation. The two motor assemblies 132 each engage respective monoculars 104, 108. In this embodiment the two motor assemblies 132 are located on respective sides of the mounting assembly 102. The positioning of motor brackets 136 supporting the motor assemblies 132 in this embodiment defines one end of the horizontal adjustment range of the monoculars 104, 108. In this embodiment, the respective motor assemblies 132 (and in turn, the respective adjustment mechanisms 114) are operable independently of one another, as noted above, although operation in concert is possible.

[0097] Turning now to the particulars of each motor assembly 132, shown in Figures 2 and 5, which will be described in the singular although mirrored motor assemblies 132 are provided on each side, as noted. The motor assembly 132 comprises a motor 138 and specifically in this embodiment, a stepper motor 138 (e.g., NEMA17 stepper motor). As shown, the stepper motor 138 is arranged on a back end of the motor assembly 132, spaced away from the refractive optical element(s). In some embodiments, placement of the stepper motor 138 spaced away from the refractive optical element(s) serves to avoid interference with the (favourable) operation of the refractive optical element. For example, distant placement of the stepper motor 138 from the refractive optical element(s) may avoid potential vibrational interference caused by the motion of the motor 138, or otherwise heat interference caused by the motor 138, particularly where the refractive optical element(s) is tunable and / or vulnerable to such vibrational and / or temperature fluxes. The use of thestepper motor 138 in particular, in this embodiment, may present other nonlimiting advantages, including, for example, the ability to precisely position the monoculars 104, 108 based on instructions received, and / or the ability to withstand repetitive use with minimal mechanical failure, such that the monoculars 104, 108 can be adjusted on a per user basis. The stepper motor 138 is connected to a motor shaft 140 by means of a motor shaft coupler 142 (e.g., M8 shaft coupler). In this embodiment, a ball bearing 144 (e.g., M8 ball bearing) is provided on the end of the shaft coupler 142, which is securely connected to the motor bracket 136 (see Figure 2). Indeed, this robust motor assembly 132 is configured in this embodiment to withstand repeated monocular adjustments as may be required, for example, in a clinical eye testing facility.

[0098] Gears are used to engage the motor assembly 132 with the linear translation assembly 134, in this embodiment. The linear translation assembly 134 is positioned generally perpendicular to the motor assembly 132, and travels through the mounting body 116. Notably, each monocular 104, 108 has its own linear translation assembly 134 and these are independent of one another in this embodiment. A gear of the linear translation assembly 134 engages a motor gear 146 of the motor assembly 132 in a gear transmission, which, as described below, is used to the change the direction of translation of the monoculars 104, 108. The linear translation assembly 134 further comprises a flange bearing 148 (e.g., pillow block flange bearing) which connects the gear to a translation shaft 150. In this embodiment, the translation shaft 150 specifically comprises a threaded screw (e.g., M8 lead screw) which threadedly connected to a nut 152 (e.g., nut for M8 lead screw) within the mounting body 116. The translation shaft 150 has a length which accommodates the linear translation of each monocular 104, 108 needed. On the other side of the mounting body 116, the linear translation assembly 134 comprises another flanged ball bearing 154 (e.g., M8 flanged ball bearing) for receiving the end of the translation shaft 150.

[0099] When this embodiment is in use, the motor assembly 132 and the linear translation assembly 134 work cooperatively via the gear transmission. For example, if the motor assembly 132 is activated for a first direction, the stepper motor 138 will rotate in a first direction, causing the motor shaft 140 to rotate in a first direction, thereby causing thetranslation shaft 150 to rotate in a first direction, thereby moving the monocular 104 or 106 in a first direction (c.g., inwards). In turn, if the motor assembly 132 is activated for a second direction, the stepper motor 138 will rotate in a second direction, causing the motor shaft 140 to rotate in a second direction, thereby causing the translation shaft 150 to rotate in a second direction, thereby moving the monocular 104 or 106 in a second direction (e.g., outwards). As such, this embodiment provides for a mechanically simple yet effective and accurate adjustment mechanism 114.

[0100] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the motor assembly 132 further comprises a rod 160 (e.g., M8 rod, cut to 85mm in this example) which is connected to the mounting body 116 via a linear bearing 162 (e.g., M8 linear bearing) and a retaining ring 164 (e.g., retaining ring for M8 linear bearing). The rod 160 extends outwards from this connection to the mounting body 116 towards the stepper motor 138.

[0101] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the adjustment mechanism 114, and specifically the linear translation assembly 134, specifically accommodates user interpupillary distances of approximately 42.1 mm to approximately 75 mm. In other embodiments, other IPDs may be accommodated.

[0102] In an alternative embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 114 may comprise a joint monocular adjustment assembly operable to adjust a relative distance between respective monoculars using a single drive mechanism. For example, while respective monocular adjustment mechanisms as described above may be used to independently move a right and lefthand monocular relative to a device casing or mounting structure in ultimately achieving a desired or prescribed IPD, an alternative embodiment may instead use a single adjustment mechanism to adjust a relative distance between the two monoculars. For example, a single stepper motor can be used to concurrently distance or bring together the respective monoculars. While some users may exhibit asymmetric distances for their right and left eye relative to a center of their face, which can be addressed explicitly using distinctly actuated monoculars, since the user’s physical engagement with the device can, in some embodiments, be limited to respective eyecups, the only measure that may truly have an impact on user comfort and device performance may be that of theIPD, irrespective of facial asymmetries. Accordingly, an embodiment with a single drive mechanism, such as a single stepper motor, engaging a single joint relative distance adjustment mechanism, may adequately serve this purpose.

[0103] In this embodiment, the system 100 further comprises a thermal regulation subsystem 170 which is configured to maintain at least the monoculars 104, 108 within a designated thermal operating range. More specifically, the thermal regulation subsystem 170 is configured to maintain the tunable lenses within the monoculars 104, 108 within the designated thermal operating range. Notably, the thermal regulation subsystem 170 is arranged within the system 100 so as to avoid obstructing or otherwise interfering with the movement of the monoculars 104, 108 within the horizontal adjustment range.

[0104] In this embodiment, although not specifically shown, the thermal regulation subsystem 170 comprises respective active heat transfer devices configured to selectively transfer heat from the respective tunable optical refraction elements in the monoculars 104, 108 via respective thermal transfer chains to the active heat transfer devices for heat dissipation. In this embodiment, each thermal transfer chain comprises a thermally conductive element dimensioned to at least partially contact the tunable refractive optical element and at least one thermal transfer conduit thermally coupled between the thermally conductive element and the active heat transfer device. In this embodiment, the thermal regulation system further comprises fans arranged in proximity to the respective active heat transfer devices to assist in heat dissipation. In use, the thermal regulation subsystem 170 is activatable by the digital processor 124 to selectively transfer heat from the tunable optical refraction element via the thermally conductive element and the thermal transfer conduit to the active heat transfer device so as to maintain favourable operation of the tunable refractive optical element within a designated thermal operating range.

[0105] The thermal regulation subsystem 170 in this embodiment is selectively activated by the digital processor 124. The processor 124 in this embodiment, in addition to its functioning related to monocular positioning adjustment, also processes and controls the thermal regulation subsystem 170. In particular, the processor 124 receives from one or more temperatures sensors (not shown) arranged in proximity to the tunable opticalrefraction elements in the monoculars 104, 108 a sensed temperature, compares it to the designated thermal operating range for the tunable optical refraction elements (or related thresholds or ranges therefore), and selectively activates / deactivates the thermal regulation subsystem 170. Exemplary implementation of this thermal regulation subsystem 170 is described, for example, in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 490,955, filed March 17, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0106] In this embodiment, the system 100 further comprises one or more processing enhancing components. More specifically, in this embodiment the system 100 comprises an expansion board or card 172, operable to support the digital processor 124 with any one or more additional functionalities suited to the intended application of the system 100.

[0107] In this embodiment, the system 100 further comprises a display driver integrated circuit (DDIC) board 174 (e.g., Synaptics™ ClearView™) which in this embodiment enables high resolution display of images or content through the monoculars 104, 108. More specifically, this DDIC board 174 is employed in this embodiment so as to generate high resolution display of content on the active display (not shown), by means of which optical or cognitive testing is carried out.

[0108] In this embodiment, the system 100 further comprises a power management subsystem (not specifically shown) configured to manage power supply to the various componentry of the system 100. In this embodiment, the power management subsystem is configured to manage current from a power source (not shown) to any one or combination of the adjustment mechanism 114 (e.g., the motor 138), tuning or actuation componentry associated with the tunable refractive optical elements (or lenses), the processor 124, the IPD sensor 126, the cooling subsystem 170 (e.g., the temperature sensor(s), the active heat transfer device(s), the fan(s), and / or the like), the expansion board 172, the synaptics board 174, or the like. In this embodiment, the power management subsystem comprises a voltage regulator 180 configured to regulate voltage applied to the adjustment mechanism 114. In particular, the voltage regulator 180 in this embodiment comprises two respective step- up / step-down voltage regulators of differing voltages (e.g., Pololu® 6V and 9V Step- Up / Step-Down voltage regulators). In this embodiment, the power management subsystemfurther comprises two voltage convertors (not shown) which respectively convert power supply to the motors and active heat transfer devices (Peltier devices), respectively, from 19V to 9V.

[0109] In this embodiment, turning to Figures 12 and 13, the system 100 further comprises a housing 190 (or shell) in which various componentry is housed. In particular, the housing 190 encloses therein the mounting assembly 102, the adjustment mechanism 114, the digital processor 124 and associated electronics, the IPD sensor 126 and the like. The housing 190 further surrounds the active heat transfer device of the thermal transfer subsystem 170 such that it is hidden from a front view (see Figure 12). As shown, the monoculars 104, 108 extend from the front of the housing 190 and the housing 190 defines a monocular window within which the monoculars 104, 108 can translate in the horizontal plane, in this embodiment. The housing 190 in this embodiment provides a compact, user- friendly design which is suited, for example, to optical examination rooms or even general retailers. Indeed, the housing 190 in this embodiment prevents users from interfering with any components of the system 100 and avoids wires or other connections being interrupted by user vandalism or the like. In one embodiment, the housing 190 may further comprise an adjustable base support (not shown) which supports the housing 190 and system 100 at a distance from the ground. For example, the adjustable base support may allow a practitioner to adjust the vertical height of the housing 190 relative to a user height (seated or standing), before the IPD of the user is at least closely matched.

[0110] In this embodiment, the system 100 specifically comprises a light field refractor or phoropter-like device, where identical digital light field monocular devices 104, 108 are disposed and operated side-by-side to provide for binocular vision-based testing capabilities. More specifically, each optical path 106, 110 of each monocular 104, 108 comprises a viewing channel to an active digital display (not shown). In this embodiment, the tunable refractive optical elements (not shown) specifically comprise tunable liquid lenses which variably refract pixelated content projected by the active digital display. This variable refraction of the pixelated content on the active digital display is operable, in this embodiment, to test the visual acuity of a patient. Indeed, in this particular embodiment, the light field refractor 100 specifically comprises the digital display and a microlens arraydisposed at a distance therefrom (not shown) for this purpose. In various embodiments, the light field refractor 100 may be a diagnostic or screening device, for diagnosing optical conditions, aberrations or the like, determining prescriptions for same, or the like. Other vision-based testing capabilities, such as for screening or testing for cognitive impairments such as a concussion or the like, may also be applied. Indeed, as will be understood by skilled artisans, light field refractors 100 are known to adjust a user’s perception of an input image by adjusting a light field emanated by the active digital display so to control how a light field image is ultimately projected for viewing. For instance, in some examples related to determining prescriptions, users who would otherwise require corrective eyewear, may consume images produced by such light field refractors in clear or improved focus without the use of such corrective eyewear. Although the present disclosure is not limited in application to the thermal regulation of tunable optical elements (such as tunable liquid lenses) forming part of light field refractors, this use case has been specifically implemented, in accordance with one embodiment, with usage of at least one of the embodiments disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 957,845 filed on September 30, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0111] Thus, when the system 100 is employed to test the visual acuity of a user, or otherwise to test for cognitive impairments, or the like, as the case may be, the system 100 is configured to first adjust the inter-optical path distance 112 between the respective monoculars 104, 108 to at least substantially or closely match that of the IPD of the user sensed, before an optical or cognitive test is canned out.

[0112] With reference to Figures 16 to 18, the following describes another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, referred to as system 200. In this embodiment, system 200 comprises substantially the same components and functionalities of system 100, with the exception of a modified motor assembly 232, and a modified adjustment mechanism 192, which will be further described below. This modification provides system 200 with improved mechanical precision and operational smoothness compared to system 100.

[0113] In this embodiment, system 200 comprises two modified adjustment mechanisms 192 which are substantially similar, although generally mirror images of oneanother, as shown in Figure 16. Tn this embodiment, the modified adjustment mechanisms 192 each comprise a stepper motor 138 (c.g., Ncma 14) which is operatively connected to a belt-driven servomechanism 188 (BDS). The BDSs 188 have a similar functionality to the adjustment mechanisms 114 of system 100, as they are configured to adjust the respective monoculars 104 or 108, in the horizontal plane within a horizontal adjustment range. Similarly to system 100, adjustment of the monoculars 104, 108 is in response to adjustment instructions received, which may originate from one or more sources, as previously described.

[0114] The BDS 188 comprises two tooth pinion pullies 184, which are operatively connected via a timing belt 182. The first tooth pinion pully 184A is coupled to the stepper motor 138, and drives the timing belt 182, thereby rotating the second tooth pinion pully 184B. The second tooth pinion pully 184B, is couple to the respective threaded translational shaft 150, and thereby rotates the respective threaded translational shaft 150 when engaged.

[0115] Similar to system 100, the threaded translational shaft 150 of system 200 is operatively connected to the corresponding monocular 104,108. As the translational shaft 150 rotates, the associated monocular moves horizontally along the shaft within the specified horizontal range. The ball bearings 154 and flange bearing 148 (e.g., pillow block flange bearing) define the ends of the horizontal adjustment range of each of the monoculars 104, 108 along their respective translational shafts 150.

[0116] When this embodiment is in use, the modified motor assembly 232 and BDS 188 work cooperatively via the timing belt 182. For example, if the modified motor assembly 232 is activated for a first direction, the stepper motor 138 will rotate in a first direction, causing the timing belt 182 to rotate in a first direction, thereby causing the translation shaft 150 to rotate in a first direction, thereby moving the monocular 104 or 108 in a first direction (e.g., inwards). In turn, if the modified motor assembly 232 is activated for a second direction, the stepper motor 138 will rotate in a second direction, causing the motor shaft 140 to rotate in a second direction, thereby causing the translation shaft 150 to rotate in a second direction, thereby moving the monocular 104 or 108 in a second direction(e.g., outwards). Each monocular is independently controlled by its respective modified motor assembly 232, facilitating autonomous adjustability and precise positioning of each monocular independently within the defined horizontal range.

[0117] The use of a BDS 188 allows for slower and more precise adjustments of the monoculars 104, 108 along the translational shaft 150. The BDS 188 also allows for system 200 to operate with less noise and mechanical resistance over system 100.

[0118] With reference to Figures 19 and 20, the following describes another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, referred to as system 300. In this embodiment, system 300 comprises substantially the same components and functionalities of system 200, however with the exception of a single modified motor assembly 332 and modified thermal regulation system, which will be further described below. These modifications provide system 300 with improved accuracy and electrical efficiency, a more compact size, and further operational smoothness over the other embodiments.

[0119] In this embodiment, the single motor assembly 332 consists of a stepper motor 138 (e.g. Nema 14) and a BDS 188, which collectively control the horizontal movement of both monoculars 104, 108 simultaneously. The stepper motor 138 is operatively connected to the BDS unit 188, transmitting the rotational motion of the motor shaft to the single translational shaft 150.

[0120] The translational shaft 150, which is operatively connected to both monoculars via threaded connection, is driven by the rotation of the timing belt 182. This configuration allows the monoculars to move in equal but opposite directions simultaneously. Additionally, the threaded translational shaft 150 of system 300 is designed to achieve increased monocular’ travel speed along its length, resulting in reduced torque, less vibration, and lower noise levels compared to other systems. The single motor assembly 332 also allows system 300 to be more compact over the previous systems described.

[0121] In this embodiment, and as illustrated in Figure 21, the modified adjustment mechanism with tensioning bearings 193 of system 300 features a BSD 188 incorporating a pair of toothed pinion pulleys 184 and a set of tensioning ball bearings 186. The firsttoothed pinion pulley 184A, which is directly coupled to the stepper motor 138, drives the timing belt 182, thereby rotating the second toothed pinion pulley 184B, which is further coupled to the threaded translational shaft 150. The threaded translational shaft 150 of system 300 is a reversely threaded rod (bidirectional T8 lead screw) featuring threads wound in opposite directions at each end and converging toward the center. This design allows for opposing rotational movement, enabling the monoculars 104,108, attached to each end, to move in opposite directions when the rod is rotated.

[0122] The tensioning ball bearings 186 maintain optimal tension on the timing belt 182, preventing slippage and maintaining rotational accuracy of the timing belt 182. This ensures that the precise rotational motion of the first toothed pinion pulley 184A is effectively transferred to the second toothed pinion pulley 184B, thereby precisely rotating the translational shaft and positioning each of the monoculars 104, 108 within the horizontal range. In addition to the tensioning ball bearings 186, to compensate for potential precision loss due to pulley slack, the system 300 applies corrective adjustments to the modified adjustment mechanism 193 to ensure accurate positioning of the monoculars 104, 108.

[0123] In this embodiment, system 300 employs a relative measurement system based on the fixed positions of two electromechanical switches (not shown). The external limit switch is positioned at the outermost limit of the monoculars' range along the translational shaft 150, while the internal limit switch is situated at the innermost limit. These two reference points define the maximum (approximately 70mm) and minimum (approximately 45mm) extents of the monoculars' motion range. The system uses these landmarks as absolute positional references, from which the step motor's 138 movement is measured, operating in step increments of 0.1 mm. Calibration of the relative measurement system is employed when the refractor is turned on.

[0124] In this embodiment, the horizonal adjustment range is defined by a flange bearing 148 at one end of the translational shaft 150, and a ball bearing 154 at the other end, with the second tooth and pinion pully 184B placed between the monoculars 104, 108.

[0125] In this embodiment, in addition to the thermal transfer subsystem 170, system 300 incorporates a protective mechanism aimed at reducing the workload on the motor and preventing overheating. The system utilizes an internal timer that activates following each motion to monitor the elapsed time since the last movement. If this duration exceeds 60 seconds, the motor is disabled. Upon subsequent movement of the slider, the motor is reenabled and adjusts to the specified position.

[0126] In this embodiment, the cameras are integrated within each monocular (104, 108) and are equipped with monochromatic sensors, such as the OV9281, providing a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. They support frame rates ranging from 30 to 60 frames per second and typically measure 8 mm x 8.5 mm. Each camera is paired with an infrared (IR) LED emitting at a wavelength of 860 nm and is connected through a 330 Ohm resistor.

[0127] The cameras are independently driven by their own printed circuit boards (PCBs) and are linked to the refractor via separate USB cables. Despite these distinct connections, both cameras operate in parallel to deliver simultaneous video feeds for the left and right eyes to the refractor. They are also equipped with an IR LED featuring a 140- degree beam angle for uniform illumination across the designated area and are fitted with a lens providing a 160-degree field of view (FOV).

[0128] Additionally, the cameras utilize refractor software to process MJPEG input frames through the Video For Linux 2 (V4L2) application programming interface (API). The frames are converted to H.264 format using the GStreamer library and streamed to the Amazon AWS Kinesis Video Streams service. The AWS Kinesis WebRTC C SDK facilitates streaming, with the refractor serving as the master device and a tablet acting as the viewer device. This streaming employs the WebRTC protocol to establish a peer-to- peer connection. It is to be appreciated that various alternative embodiments of the system 100, 200, and 300 are envisaged, without departing from the general nature and scope of the instant disclosure. Some of these embodiments or variations are briefly described hereunder, without limitation.

[0129] In other embodiments, the monoculars 104, 108 may be substantially different from one another, although configured to work together in a binocular system. In otherembodiments, the monoculars 104, 108 need not specifically comprise a tunable refractive element; however, some form of lens or lenses arc typically envisaged to be mountable in the optical paths 106, 110.

[0130] In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 114 may be specifically configured to adjust the position of any one of the first monocular 104 or the second monocular 108 (as opposed to both). In such embodiments, one monocular may be stationary whilst the other monocular may be movable to adjust the inter-optical path distance 112 to align with the IDP. Accordingly, such embodiments may employ only a single motor assembly engaging the movable monocular.

[0131] In other embodiments, where the adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of both the monoculars 104, 108 simultaneously, it is to be appreciate that each monocular 104, 108 may move in opposite directions for the same distance. For example, if the adjustment instructions received indicate that the inter-optical path distance 112 is to be made shorter, both the monocular's 104, 108 may move inwards towards one another until the desired inter-optical path distance 112 is reached (thereby aligning with the 1PD). Continuing this example, if the adjustment instructions received indicate that the inter- optical path distance 112 is to be made longer, both the monoculars 104, 108 may move away from one another until the desired inter-optical path distance 112 is reached (thereby aligning with the IPD).

[0132] In other embodiments, the positioning of any one or both the monoculars 104, 108 may not be limited a horizontal adjustment range, defined by the mounting body / assembly or otherwise. In some embodiments, the monocular's 104, 108 may be vertically adjusted, rotationally adjusted, or the like.

[0133] In other embodiments, the IPD sensor 126 may be located at any position within the system 100, provided the IPD sensor 126 does not interrupt the optical paths 106, 110. In some embodiments, the IPD sensor 126 may be arranged within or proximate the eye cup(s).

[0134] In other embodiments, the IPD of a user may be determined by another means (c.g., manually measuring the IPD distance) and the IPD may be inputted into the system 100 such that the adjustment mechanism 114 will position any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 to align with the IPD inputted. In such embodiments, the adjustment instructions received may comprise the IPD inputted and / or a confirmation to proceed with adjustment of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 based on the IPD inputted. In some embodiments, in addition to the IPD calculation and automated adjustment of the monoculars 104, 108, the adjustment instructions are also based on user perception feedback. For example, if after automated adjustment of the monoculars 104, 108, the user indicates that their perception through the binocular is inaccurate, blurred, unfocussed or the like, the system 100, 200, and / or 300 receives user perception feedback to manually adjust the positioning of one or both of the monoculars 104, 108.

[0135] In other embodiments, the digital processor 124 may include a memory, whether a permanent memory or a temporary memory, to support processing of IPDs of users, temperatures sensed and / or activation and / or deactivation of the active thermal transfer device in use.

[0136] In other embodiments, where adjustment of the monoculars 104, 108 is not automated based on an IPD sensor, the adjustment instructions may comprise or be based on subjective user perception feedback. For example, a user may be asked to position their eyes in front of the monoculars 104, 108 to provide feedback as to whether they perceive the image(s) therein clearly and / or accurately. Additionally, or alternatively, a healthcare practitioner may observe this. The user perception feedback, based on the user or healthcare provider, may be inputted into the system 100, 200, and / or 300 such that the adjustment mechanism can move the monoculars in response thereto. For example, if the user perception feedback includes that the monoculars 104, 108 are too widely spaced, the system 100, 200, and / or 300 may move any one or both monoculars 104, 108 inwards in gradual, sliding manner until the user perception feedback is positive. In some embodiments, a mechanical input may be used to provide the subjective user perception feedback to the system 100, 200, and / or 300. For example, the mechanical input may comprise a dial or similar mechanical device for adjusting the positioning on themonoculars 104, 108. In other embodiments, the subjective user perception feedback may be inputted electronically by means of a touchpad, keyboard and mouse, or the like, without limitation.

[0137] In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 114 may be configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 in a vertical plane, in addition to or in the alternative to the horizontal plane. In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 114 may be configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of the monoculars 104, 108 in a diagonal plane, in addition to or in the alternative to the horizontal plane and / or vertical plane. In certain embodiments, various two-dimensional (2D) movements may be made. In some embodiments, such 2D movements may be enabled by two distinct motor assemblies engaging each monocular 104, 108 to enable movement in both the horizontal and vertical planes.

[0138] In other embodiments, the motor assemblies 132 may be located at any other position relative to the mounting assembly 102, provided the positioning thereof does not obstruct the optical paths 106, 110. For example, the motor assemblies 132 may be located underneath or on top of the mounting assembly 102.

[0139] In other embodiments, the motor 138 may comprise any motor, including any direct current (DC) motor, configured for the functioning disclosed herein.

[0140] In other embodiments, the digital processor 124 may comprise any high- performance system-on-module (SOM) or similar computer processing system suited to the functioning disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, Raspberry Pi™ 4 Benchmark (4B) may be workable. In other embodiments, the digital processor 124 may be in communication with any alternative and / or additional componentry of the system 100. For example, the digital processor 124 may be in communication with a temperature sensor or the like.

[0141] In other embodiments, other processing enhancing components may be integrated into the system 100, 200, and / or 300, including components for enhancing imagedisplay. For example, different display drivers may be integrated in different embodiments to enable high resolution display of images or content through the monoculars 104, 108.

[0142] In other embodiments, the thermal regulation system may comprise a single active heat transfer device configured to selectively transfer heat from both tunable optical refraction elements in the monocular’s via a singular, combined thermal transfer chain to said active heat transfer device for heat dissipation. In other embodiments, the thermal regulation system may comprise any one or more cooling members or components which may be distinct from the active heat transfer device described above. For example, liquid or gas-based cooling may be used in other embodiments.

[0143] In other embodiments, the housing may take any shape, form and / or dimensions suited to the intended application.

[0144] In other embodiments, the system 100, 200, and / or 300 may comprise a linear encoder for determining the positioning of the monocular(s) 104, 108 to an electronic signal for receipt by the digital processor or other componentry of the associated system.

[0145] In other embodiments, the power supply of the power management subsystem may comprise a mains power supply, a battery or the like, providing current to one or more components of system 100.

[0146] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may adjust the monoculars 104, 108 within the horizontal, vertical, or diagonal range based on IPD information received from an external device.

[0147] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may use a tablet separate from the refractor to calculate a user’ s IPD, and relay instructions to the binoculars to adjust the monoculars to match the user’s IPD. For example, a standard or modified tablet (e.g. one encasing or operating a set of 2, 4 or 6 cameras, for example) may be utilized to

[0148] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may employ a separate tablet as the control interface, enabling users to receive instructions and directly manage the system through the tablet.

[0149] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may utilize an external processor to handle certain processing tasks, including those performed by the GPU.

[0150] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may incorporate headphones to deliver instructions and feedback to the user.

[0151] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may integrate a wavefront aberrometer to measure light waves as they travel through the user’s eyes or eye.

[0152] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may integrate an autorefractor to measure how light is refracted as it enters the user’s eyes or eye.

[0153] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may integrate a retina or fundus camera to capture detailed images of the user’s retina.

[0154] In other embodiments, system 100, 200, and / or 300 may incorporate a motorized table to adjust the height if the system while in use.

[0155] In accordance with a further embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a method of adjusting monocular positioning within a binocular optical system. The method comprises providing a user access to a binocular optical system which comprises first and second monoculars, each defining respective optical paths therethrough, thereby defining an inter-optical path distance between the respective optical paths, sensing via an interpupillary distance sensor arranged in the binocular optical system an IPD of the user gazing into the respective optical paths, determining on a digital processor arranged in the binocular optical system a current monocular position and a predefined monocular position suited for the IPD of the user as sensed, and adjusting by means of an adjustment mechanism the positioning of any one or both of the first and second monoculars to the predefined monocular position so as to align the inter-optical path distance with the IPD of the user.

[0156] In this embodiment, the binocular optical system comprises anyone of systems 100, 200, or 300 as described above.

[0157] In this embodiment, sensing the IPD comprises sensing the IPD when the user focuses their gaze on pixclatcd content projected by an active digital display arranged in both of the monoculars. More specifically, in this embodiment, sensing comprises processing camera feed data from the camera of the IPD sensor of both eyes of the user to determine the IPD.

[0158] In this embodiment, determining the predefined monocular position comprises determining any one or both of a direction of adjustment and an extent of adjustment of any one or both of the monoculars. In some embodiments, the predefined monocular position may be predetermined based on an index of IPDs and associated predefined monocular positionings suited therefor.

[0159] In this embodiment, adjusting the positioning of one or both of the monoculars comprises adjusting positioning in a horizontal plane within a defined horizontal adjustment range. In other embodiments, adjusting further comprises adjusting positioning of any one or both of the monocular’s in any one or both of a vertical plane and a diagonal plane. Where the positioning of both of monoculars is adjusted, the adjusting occurs either independently or in concert. In this embodiment, the positioning of the monoculars is automatically adjusted in real-time. More specifically, once a healthcare practitioner starts or activates the system, the system automatically determines the IPD and automatically adjusts the monocular positioning in response thereto. In this embodiment, the method is configured to adjust the monoculars so as to accommodate user IPDs of approximately 40 mm to approximately 75 mm.

[0160] In this embodiment, adjusting further comprises determining from the camera feed data whether erroneous adjustment of the monoculars occurred and readjusting positioning of any one or both of the monoculars accordingly.

[0161] In this embodiment, since the system generally reflects system 100 described above, it includes, amongst other features, respective tunable refractive optical elements in the monoculars for applying tunable refraction along the optical paths, respective motor assemblies arranged to engage respective linear translation assemblies, which respectivelyconnect to the monoculars, and a thermal regulation subsystem configured to maintain the tunable refractive optical elements within a designated favourable thermal operating range.

[0162] In the above-described embodiments, the systems specifically comprise a light field refractor and the method is adapted to prepare the light field refractor for any one or both of optical testing and cognitive testing, as the application may be.

[0163] In other embodiments where the IPD is manually determined, it is to be appreciated that determining the IPD may be carried out before providing the user access to the system. Indeed, the IPD may be determined at more than one occasion and / or continuously assessed in certain embodiments. It is to be further appreciated that in some use cases, adjustment of the monocular positioning may not be required where the inter- optical distance already substantially matches that of the IPD. For example, if the system is adapted to accommodate an IPD of a first user and the IPD of a second user happens to closely if not exactly match that of the first user, no adjustment of the monoculars is required.

[0164] While the present disclosure describes various embodiments for illustrative purposes, such description is not intended to be limited to such embodiments. On the contrary, the applicant's teachings described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments, the general scope of which is defined in the appended claims. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the processes themselves, no particular order to steps or stages of methods or processes described in this disclosure is intended or implied. In many cases the order of process steps may be varied without changing the purpose, effect, or import of the methods described.

[0165] Information as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above-described object of the present disclosure, the presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become apparent to those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims,wherein any reference to an element being made in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments as regarded by those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, no requirement exists for a system or method to address each and every problem sought to be resolved by the present disclosure, for such to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. However, that various changes and modifications in form, material, workpiece, and fabrication material detail may be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as set forth in the appended claims, as may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are also encompassed by the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A binocular optical system, comprising: a digital display; a first monocular subassembly comprising a first eyepiece and defining a first optical path therethrough between said first eyepiece and said digital display; a second monocular subassembly comprising a second eyepiece and defining a second optical path therethrough between said second eyepiece and said digital display; wherein said digital display is operated to project respective first and second pixelated content through said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece, respectively; and wherein the system further comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a relative position of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece so to substantially correspond with a user’s interpupillary distance in order to optimize viewing of said respective first and second pixelated content.

2. The system of Claim 1, wherein said adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece.

3. The system of Claim 1, wherein said adjustment mechanism is operable in response to subjective user perception feedback.

4. The system of Claim 1, wherein said adjustment mechanism is operable via a mechanical input mechanism.

5. The system of Claim 1, wherein a user’s interpupillary distance information is received from an external device.

6. The system of Claim 1, wherein the system further comprises an interpupillary distance sensor configured to sense said user’s interpupillary distance, and a digitalprocessor in communication with said interpupillary distance sensor and said adjustment mechanism so as to automatically adjust said adjustment mechanism as a function of said user’s interpupillary distance.

7. The system of Claim 6, wherein said interpupillary distance sensor comprises respective gaze sensors operable to sense respective gaze directions as the user focuses their gaze on said respective first and second pixelated content.

8. The system of either one of Claim 6 or Claim 7, wherein said interpupillary distance sensor comprises a camera to capture camera feed data of both eyes of said user.

9. The system of Claim 8, wherein said camera feed data captured is communicated to said digital processor so as to determine any one or both of pupil location and said interpupillary distance, of said user.

10. The system of Claim 9, wherein said camera feed data is captured during or after adjustment of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece and wherein said camera feed data is communicated to said digital processor so as to determine whether erroneous adjustment of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece occurred.

11. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece in a horizontal plane.

12. The system of Claim 11, the system further comprising a mounting assembly defining a horizontal adjustment range within which any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally positionable.

13. The system of Claim 12, wherein any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally adjustable via a corresponding horizontal adjustment ofany one or both of said first monocular subassembly or said second monocular subassembly.

14. The system of Claim 13, wherein each of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece are fixedly assembled within each of said corresponding first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly such that said adjustment mechanism adjusts said relative distance by adjusting a relative distance between said first monocular' assembly and said second monocular' assembly.

15. The system of Claim 1, wherein each of said first monocular subassembly and said second monocular' subassembly comprises a respective digital display operated to respectively project said first and second pixelated content.

16. The system of Claim 15, wherein each said respective digital display comprises a light field display.

17. The system of Claim 16, wherein each said light field display comprises an array of digital pixels and an array of light field shaping elements disposed relative thereto so to adjust a user perception of each of said first and second pixelated content.

18. The system of Claim 1, wherein said adjustment mechanism comprises respective motor assemblies and respective linear translation assemblies arranged so as to translate rotational movement in a relative horizontal movement of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece.

19. The system of Claim 18, wherein each of said respective motor assemblies comprise a stepper motor.

20. The system of Claim 1, wherein the system comprises a light field refractor.21 . The system of Claim 20, wherein user perception of said respective first and second pixclatcd content is adjusted as a function of subjective user feedback in subjectively assessing a visual acuity of the user.

22. A binocular light field refractor for assessing a visual acuity of a user, comprising: a light field display; a first monocular subassembly comprising a first eyepiece and defining a first optical path therethrough between said first eyepiece and said light field display; a second monocular subassembly comprising a second eyepiece and defining a second optical path therethrough between said second eyepiece and said light field display; wherein said light field display is operated to project respective first and second pixelated content through said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece, respectively, wherein a user perception of said first and second pixelated content is adjusted in response to subjective user feedback in assessing the user’s visual acuity; and wherein the system further comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a relative position of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece so to substantially correspond with a user’s interpupillary distance in order to optimize the user perception of said first and second pixelated content.

23. The binocular light field refractor of Claim 22, wherein said adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust positioning of any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece in a horizontal plane.

24. The binocular light field refractor system of Claim 22, wherein said adjustment mechanism is operable in response to subjective user perception feedback.

25. The binocular light field refractor of any one of Claims 22 to 24, wherein said adjustment mechanism is operable via a mechanical input mechanism.

26. The binocular light field refractor of any one of Claims 22 to 24, wherein the system further comprises an interpupillary distance sensor configured to sense said user’sinterpupillary distance, and a digital processor in communication with said interpupillary distance sensor and said adjustment mechanism so as to automatically adjust said adjustment mechanism as a function of said user’s interpupillary distance.

27. The binocular light field refractor of Claim 26, wherein said interpupillary distance sensor comprises respective gaze sensors operable to sense respective gaze directions as the user focuses their gaze on said respective first and second pixelated content.

28. The binocular light field refractor of Claim 26, wherein said interpupillary distance sensor comprises a camera to capture camera feed data of both eyes of said user, wherein said camera feed data captured is communicated to said digital processor so as to determine any one or both of pupil location and said interpupillary distance, of said user.

29. The binocular light field refractor of Claim 22, the refractor further comprising a mounting assembly defining a horizontal adjustment range within which any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally positionable, wherein any one or both of said first eyepiece or said second eyepiece are horizontally adjustable via a corresponding horizontal adjustment of any one or both of said first monocular subassembly or said second monocular subassembly.

30. The binocular light field refractor of Claim 29, wherein each of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece are fixedly assembled within each of said corresponding first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly such that said adjustment mechanism adjusts said relative distance by adjusting a relative distance between said first monocular assembly and said second monocular assembly.

31. The binocular light field refractor of Claim 22, wherein each of said first monocular subassembly and said second monocular subassembly comprises a respective light field display operated to respectively project said first and second pixelated content, wherein each said light field display comprises an array of digital pixels and an array of light field shaping elements disposed relative thereto so to adjust said user perception.

32. The system of Claim 1, wherein said adjustment mechanism comprises a single motor assembly and associated linear translation assembly arranged so as to translate rotational movement in a relative horizontal movement of said first eyepiece and said second eyepiece.

33. The system of Claim 32, wherein said single motor assembly comprises a stepper motor.

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