Optometry control program and subjective optometry system

Abstract

An optometry control program including a self-optometry program that automatically advances optometry based on answers input by a subject, the optometry control program executed by a first information processing apparatus to control a corrective optical system and an optotype presentation section to perform a plurality of examination items based on an advancement process of the automatically advanced self-optometry, acquire answers input by the subject who visually recognized the presented optotype, and in a case where a problem occurs in the advancement of the self-optometry, perform an assist action for assisting the advancement of the self-optometry, characterized by including a step of executing a call action based on a call execution instruction, and a step of setting an examination timing at which the assist action is started in a manner that the assist action is able to be started in an examination item at a point in time at which the call execution instruction is input.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an optometry control procedure executed in a subjective optometry system and the subjective optometry system itself. Background Technology

[0002] A known subjective optometry device involves placing optical elements in front of the subject's eyes, presenting a test target to the examined eye through these optical elements, and thereby measuring the eye's refractive power and other optical characteristics. For example, the subjective optometry device described in Patent Document 1 includes an eye refractive power measuring unit, a target presentation unit, and a controller. The eye refractive power measuring unit switches between optical elements located in the refraction window from among multiple optical elements in the corrective optics system via a drive unit. The target presentation unit switches between test targets to be presented to the examined eye. The controller detects user operations on the operation panel and sends drive signals to the eye refractive power measuring unit and the target presentation unit based on the detected operations.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-18712 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In conventional subjective refraction devices, the examiner needs to examine the patient on-site and input the driving instructions for the next action of the subjective refraction device based on the patient's response to the visual recognition of the examination target. Therefore, conventional subjective refraction devices have difficulty performing subjective refraction smoothly while reducing the burden on the examiner.

[0008] The typical objective of this disclosure is to provide a refraction control procedure and a subjective refraction system that enable smoother execution of subjective refraction.

[0009] To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention is characterized by having the following structure.

[0010] An optometry control procedure is executed by the first information processing unit of a subjective optometry system, which includes a subjective optometry device and a first information processing unit. The subjective optometry device has a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of a target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye. The subjective optometry device is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing unit is connected to the subjective optometry device. The optometry control procedure is characterized in that…

[0011] This includes self-refractionation procedures that automatically advance the refraction process based on responses input by the subject.

[0012] The first information processing device performs the following steps by executing the self-examination procedure through the control unit of the first information processing device:

[0013] The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items;

[0014] The response acquisition step involves acquiring responses input by the subject who has visually recognized the presented visual targets; and

[0015] In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction.

[0016] The self-examination assistance step includes the following steps:

[0017] The receiving step involves the subject receiving input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction to perform a call action by a call assistant.

[0018] The call execution step performs a call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step; and

[0019] The inspection timing setting step, based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step, sets the inspection timing for starting the auxiliary action in such a way that the auxiliary action can be started in the inspection item at the time point when the call execution instruction is input.

[0020] (2) A refraction control procedure, executed by the first information processing unit of a subjective refraction system comprising a subjective refraction device and a first information processing unit, wherein the subjective refraction device has a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of a target beam presented to the examined eye and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye, the subjective refraction device being used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye, and the first information processing unit being connected to the subjective refraction device, the refraction control procedure being characterized in that...

[0021] This includes self-refractionation procedures that automatically advance the refraction process based on responses input by the subject.

[0022] The first information processing device performs the following steps by executing the self-examination procedure through the control unit of the first information processing device:

[0023] The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items;

[0024] The response acquisition step involves acquiring responses input by the subject who has visually recognized the presented visual targets; and

[0025] In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction.

[0026] The self-examination assistance step includes the following steps:

[0027] The acceptance step involves accepting input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction for performing a call action by a call assistant; and

[0028] The call execution step performs the call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step.

[0029] In the response acquisition step, if the call execution instruction has been entered, the input of a response is restricted to be entered after the time point at which the call execution instruction was entered.

[0030] (3) A refraction control program, executed by the first information processing unit of a subjective refraction system comprising a subjective refraction device and a first information processing unit, wherein the subjective refraction device has a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of a target beam presented to the examined eye and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye, the subjective refraction device being used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye, and the first information processing unit being connected to the subjective refraction device, the refraction control program being characterized in that...

[0031] This includes self-refractionation procedures that automatically advance the refraction process based on responses input by the subject.

[0032] The first information processing device performs the following steps by executing the self-examination procedure through the control unit of the first information processing device:

[0033] The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items;

[0034] The response acquisition step involves acquiring responses input by the subject who has visually recognized the presented visual targets; and

[0035] In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction.

[0036] The self-examination assistance step includes the following steps:

[0037] The acceptance step involves accepting input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction for performing a call action by a call assistant; and

[0038] The call execution step performs the call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step.

[0039] Specifically, at least a portion of the operational input from the examiner's controller is restricted until the input of the call execution instruction is reached. The examiner's controller is used by the examiner, acting as an assistant, to operate the subjective refraction device.

[0040] Upon input of the call execution instruction, the restriction on the operation input from the inspector using the controller is lifted.

[0041] (4) A subjective refraction system comprising a subjective refraction device and a first information processing device, wherein the subjective refraction device has a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of a target beam presented to the examined eye and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye, for subjectively measuring the optical characteristics of the examined eye, and the first information processing device is connected to the subjective refraction device, characterized in that...

[0042] The first information processing device is capable of executing a self-refractionation procedure that automatically advances the refraction process based on responses input by the subject.

[0043] The self-examination procedure includes the following steps:

[0044] The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items;

[0045] The response acquisition step involves acquiring responses input by the subject who has visually recognized the presented visual targets; and

[0046] The self-refraction assistance step involves performing auxiliary actions to assist in advancing the self-refraction process when problems arise. This self-refraction assistance step includes the following steps:

[0047] The receiving step involves the subject receiving input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction to perform a call action by a call assistant.

[0048] The call execution step performs a call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step; and

[0049] The inspection timing setting step, based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step, sets the inspection timing for starting the auxiliary action in such a way that the auxiliary action can be started in the inspection item at the time point when the call execution instruction is input.

[0050] According to the optometry control procedure and subjective optometry system disclosed herein, subjective optometry can be performed more smoothly. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the items categorized below with <> can be used independently or in conjunction with each other.

[0052] <Summary>

[0053] The subjective refraction system illustrated in this disclosure includes a subjective refraction device and a first information processing device. The subjective refraction device has a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of a target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye. This subjective refraction device is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing device is an information processing device connected to the subjective refraction device (hereinafter, sometimes also referred to as a "connection device"). The self-refraction procedure is a procedure that automatically advances the refraction based on responses input by the examinee.

[0054] The self-refraction procedure is executed by the control unit of the first information processing device, which performs a self-refraction advancement step, a response acquisition step, a correction value storage step, and a self-refraction assistance step. In the self-refraction advancement step, the first information processing device sequentially outputs multiple presentation instruction signals to the subjective refraction device, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refraction process (i.e., according to the advancement process), these multiple presentation instruction signals instruct the presentation of the visual target to the examinee. Furthermore, in the self-refraction advancement step, the first information processing device may also control the corrective optics system and the visual target presentation unit based on the automatically advancing self-refraction process to perform multiple examination items. In the response acquisition step, the first information processing device acquires the response input by the examinee who has visually recognized the presented visual target. In the correction value storage step, the first information processing device stores a correction value based on the response acquired in the response acquisition step, and the optical characteristics of the examined eye acquired by the visual target and the visual target beam presented by the subjective refraction device when acquiring the response. In the process of assisting with self-refractionation, if a problem occurs during the self-refractionation process, the first information processing device performs an auxiliary action to assist in the advancement of the self-refractionation.

[0055] According to the subjective refraction system disclosed herein, by performing a self-refraction procedure, the patient's refraction can be properly performed even without the examiner initiating the refraction. Furthermore, in the event of problems during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction. In other words, a function to assist in advancing the self-refraction is incorporated into the self-refraction procedure. Therefore, for example, during the execution of the self-refraction procedure, at least one of the auxiliary actions for self-refraction based on suggestions from the examiner is performed. Thus, subjective refraction is properly performed with reduced burden on the examiner.

[0056] Furthermore, various devices can be used as the first information processing device for executing the optometry control procedure. For example, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") can be used as the first information processing device. Alternatively, a server, portable terminal, or smartphone can also be used as the first information processing device.

[0057] Alternatively, the first information processing device can be configured by combining multiple devices. For example, the first information processing device can also be configured by a device such as a personal computer and a dedicated controller equipped with a controller and a storage device. Of course, the dedicated controller itself can also be configured as a device such as a personal computer with a CPU to form the first information processing device.

[0058] Alternatively, the storage device for storing the refraction control program can be appropriately selected. For example, the refraction control program can be stored in a storage device built into the first information processing device, or in a storage device removable from the first information processing device. The refraction control program can also be stored in a storage device built into the dedicated controller. Furthermore, the refraction control program can be stored in multiple storage devices.

[0059] In the self-refraction assistance procedure, auxiliary actions to advance the self-refraction can be performed when the specified conditions for the self-refraction being performed are met, or when an instruction to perform an auxiliary action has been input. In this case, auxiliary actions for self-refraction can be performed appropriately when situations arise, such as when the examinee is unable to perform the self-refraction.

[0060] Furthermore, the conditions for self-examination during the execution of auxiliary actions can be appropriately selected. For example, the control unit can determine that the execution conditions for the auxiliary action are met if no response from the subject has been input and a predetermined time has elapsed. Alternatively, the control unit can also determine that the execution conditions for the auxiliary action are met if the response input by the subject is inappropriate. The method for determining whether a response is inappropriate can be appropriately selected. For example, if the input response does not meet predetermined response conditions (e.g., if a response different from the candidate response requested by the subject is input, if the same response is input more than a predetermined number of times consecutively, or if the response is input more times than requested by the subject), the control unit determines that the input response is inappropriate.

[0061] The auxiliary actions performed during self-refractionation may include calling the examiner. In this case, calling the examiner when problems arise during self-refractionation allows for proper subsequent refraction.

[0062] The self-refractionation assistance process may also include a manual advancement step, in which a presentation instruction signal is output to the subjective refraction device according to an instruction input by the examiner, for advancing at least a portion of the advancement process. In this case, the examiner can manually advance any problematic examinations or other procedures that are to be advanced through self-refractionation. Therefore, it is possible to more appropriately assist the examinee in refraction.

[0063] The self-refractionation assistance process may also include a correction value correction step, in which at least one of one or more correction values ​​stored through self-refractionation is corrected according to instructions input by the examiner. In this case, even in cases where there are correction values ​​obtained due to measurement failures based on self-refractionation, the correction value can be corrected through the examiner's judgment. Therefore, the refraction of the examinee proceeds smoothly.

[0064] Self-examination assistance steps may also include a test omission step, in which at least a portion of the process is omitted based on instructions input by the examiner. In this case, the examiner can omit pre-determined unnecessary steps from the process. Therefore, the refraction examination of the subject proceeds smoothly.

[0065] The input method for the inspector's instruction to omit at least a portion of the advancement process can be appropriately selected. For example, the inspector may input an instruction to the first information processing device to select a test to be omitted from among multiple tests performed according to the advancement process. In this case, the control unit of the first information processing device may also omit the selected test from the advancement process. Alternatively, the inspector may input the timing for restarting a temporarily paused self-refractionation as a timing later than the process to be omitted into the first information processing device. In this case, the control unit of the first information processing device may also omit a portion of the process by restarting the self-refractionation from the input timing.

[0066] Self-refractionation assistance steps may also include a proxy response acquisition step. In this step, as the self-refractionation process progresses and presents the visual targets to the subject, the control unit acquires the subject's response based on instructions input by the examiner, indicating that the subject has visually recognized the presented targets. In this case, the examiner can hear responses from the subject who has visually recognized the targets as the self-refractionation process progresses and input the received responses themselves. Therefore, even if the subject does not understand the response methods in self-refractionation, the examiner can appropriately assist self-refractionation by inputting responses heard from the subject.

[0067] The self-refractionation assistance process may also include a restart step, in which the temporarily paused self-refractionation resumes from the next completed step in the process (e.g., a completed test). In this case, the self-refractionation resumes from the next completed step in the process. Therefore, even after the assistance for self-refractionation has ended, it is possible to properly continue self-refractionation according to the process.

[0068] The self-refractionation assistance procedure may also include a designated restart step, in which the temporarily suspended self-refractionation is resumed from a procedure specified by the examiner during the process (e.g., a designated test, etc.). In this case, the examiner can resume the self-refractionation from the examiner-specified procedure after eliminating any problems that occurred during the self-refractionation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the examiner from being overburdened by the assistance procedure.

[0069] During self-refractionation, the examiner can determine the multiple tests (examinations) to be performed on the subject and the order in which they are performed. Multiple tests can also be performed sequentially according to the self-refractionation process. In this case, multiple tests for the examined eye can be automatically advanced appropriately. Furthermore, the examiner can provide appropriate assistance for tests deemed to require further assistance (e.g., tests for which good correction values ​​were not obtained during self-refractionation).

[0070] The self-refractionation assistance procedure may also include a process display step that displays the progress on a display device. The display device can be positioned at the waiting location for the examiner, either at a location different from or the same as the location where the subjective refraction device is located. In the restart step, input can also be accepted to specify a restart procedure (hereinafter referred to as the "restart procedure") that restarts the self-refractionation based on the progress displayed on the display device. In this case, the examiner can specify the restart procedure to restart the self-refractionation while having a proper understanding of the details and progress of the progress based on the displayed progress.

[0071] Furthermore, the specific method for accepting input to restart the process on top of the displayed progress sequence can be appropriately selected. For example, a touch panel can be provided in the display area of ​​the display device. In this case, the control unit can also process the process corresponding to the position where the touch panel is operated (e.g., a specific test) in the displayed progress sequence as a restart process specified by the inspector. Alternatively, a mouse or similar device for moving a pointer within the display area of ​​the display device can be provided. In this case, the control unit can also process the process corresponding to the position of the pointer on the displayed progress sequence as a restart process specified by the inspector.

[0072] Additionally, the control unit can display at least one process at a given point in the entire process (e.g., multiple tests included in the process), or the process in progress when a problem occurs during the process. In this case, the examiner can appropriately monitor the progress of the self-examination by observing the displayed process.

[0073] As described above, various advantages arise from restarting a temporarily paused self-refraction. For example, in the cross-cylinder test, one of the tests performed by a subjective refraction system, two groups of dots are presented to the subject. However, if the relative position between the examination window of the corrective optics and the subject's eye deviates, the subject may sometimes only be able to visually identify one of the two groups of dots. In this case, the subject is unable to perform self-refraction. However, according to the subjective refraction system of this disclosure, the examiner can make suggestions during the period when self-refraction is temporarily paused to adjust the position of the subject's eye relative to the examination window and assist in performing the cross-cylinder test, after which the self-refraction performed by the subject alone can be restarted. Thus, when restarting a temporarily paused self-refraction, a useful effect for both the examiner and the subject can be obtained.

[0074] Self-examination assistance steps can also be performed based on instructions input into a second information processing device, which is another information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network. In this case, even if the examiner is located at a distance from the examinee, the examiner can appropriately assist the examinee's self-examination from a distance by inputting instructions into the second information processing device.

[0075] Furthermore, in the event of a problem during self-examination (e.g., when instructions for assisting actions are input), the control unit of the first information processing device can output instructions for calling the examiner to the second information processing device. In this case, even if the examiner is located at a distance different from the examinee, the examiner can easily grasp the situation where a problem has occurred during self-examination.

[0076] However, self-examination assistance steps can also be performed based on instructions directly input into the first information processing device (e.g., instructions input into the operation unit of the first information processing device). That is, instructions for performing self-examination assistance steps can also be input by an examiner located in a location equipped with both the subjective refraction device and the first information processing device. In this case, the operation unit (examiner controller) of the first information processing device, for example, used to input instructions from the examiner, can be either a dedicated controller for the subjective refraction device or a general-purpose user interface such as a mouse or tablet computer.

[0077] Furthermore, when using a second information processing device, the number of second information processing devices can be one or more. Also, similar to the first information processing device, various devices (e.g., PCs, portable terminals, or smartphones) can be used for the second information processing device. The second information processing device can be connected to the first information processing device either during self-examination or after a problem occurs during self-examination.

[0078] Furthermore, when using the second information processing device, the control units of both the first and second information processing devices can also perform a remote dialogue step. In this remote dialogue step, the examiner and the examinee communicate by at least sending and receiving audio data (or both audio and image data). In this case, the examiner, located at a distance, can understand the examinee's condition through dialogue, thereby appropriately assisting in self-examination.

[0079] <Setting the timing of the check when starting an auxiliary action>

[0080] The self-examination assistance process may also include the following steps: a receiving step, in which the subject receives input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction to perform a call action by a call assistant (e.g., the examiner); and a call execution step, in which the call action is performed based on the call execution instruction received in the receiving step. It may also include an examination timing setting step, in which the examination timing for initiating the assistance action is set based on the call execution instruction received in the receiving step, in a manner that allows the assistance action to begin on examination items at the time the call execution instruction was input. Furthermore, the examination timing for initiating the assistance action is used as the examination start point in the progression of the refraction process (examination flow). In this case, for example, the examiner can smoothly perform assistance actions on examination items that are difficult for the subject to handle, thus effectively assisting the subject in self-examination.

[0081] As a method for setting the timing of examinations at the time when the call execution instruction is input, the timing of examinations at the time when the call execution instruction is input can be set by temporarily stopping the self-refractionation process at that time. Thus, by temporarily stopping the self-refractionation process at the time the call execution instruction is input, the possibility of obtaining incorrect examination results due to the progress of the examination can be avoided beforehand. Furthermore, the burden on the examinee can be reduced.

[0082] Furthermore, the method for setting the inspection timing for inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction is input is not limited to the method described above. For example, the storage unit may store the inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction is input, thereby enabling the setting of inspection timing for the inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction is input based on the inspection items stored in the storage unit. Thus, for example, inspection can begin from the inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction is input, and if the inspection can be performed appropriately, the inspection can be advanced until the inspector begins to provide assistance.

[0083] Furthermore, the display device can also display a discrimination display that can identify the inspection items for which a call execution instruction has been entered, thereby allowing priority to be given to the inspection items at the time the call execution instruction was entered. Alternatively, the display device can display inspection items stored in the storage unit to facilitate easier assistance during the inspection.

[0084] <Restrictions on response input>

[0085] In the response acquisition step, if a call execution instruction has been entered, the input of responses after the time point of the call execution instruction can be restricted. Thus, for example, by restricting responses from the examinee, it is possible to prevent errors in the examination due to examinee misoperation during examiner-assisted procedures. Furthermore, the response input restriction can be lifted when self-refractionation resumes. Thus, for example, it is possible to smoothly resume self-refractionation.

[0086] Furthermore, the aforementioned restrictions on response input are not limited to the case where a call execution instruction has been input. In the response acquisition step, when an instruction to execute an auxiliary action has been input, restricting the input of responses after the time point of inputting the execution instruction can, for example, prevent erroneous progress of the examination due to subject error. In other words, as an instruction to execute an auxiliary action, in addition to inputting a call execution instruction, an instruction to temporarily stop the execution of the auxiliary action by halting the self-refractionation can also be input. In this case, the instruction to execute the auxiliary action can be input by either the subject or the examiner.

[0087] <Restrictions on the input of the controller used by the inspector>

[0088] In the self-examination assistance step, at least a portion of the operational input from the examiner's controller can be restricted until an instruction to execute is input. This examiner's controller is used by the examiner, acting as an assistant, to operate the subjective refraction device. Thus, for example, during self-examination, by restricting the operational input from the examiner's controller, it is possible to prevent inexperienced examiners from interfering with the examination by touching the controller.

[0089] In this case, the restriction on the operation input from the examiner's controller can be lifted after a call execution instruction has been entered. This allows the examiner to provide assistance smoothly after the call execution instruction has been entered. Furthermore, when resuming self-refractionation, at least a portion of the operation input from the examiner's controller can be restricted. This allows, for example, proper examination after resuming self-refractionation.

[0090] Furthermore, the aforementioned restrictions on some of the operational inputs are not limited to the case where a call execution instruction is input. In the self-refraction assistance step, at least a portion of the operational inputs from the examiner's controller may be restricted until an execution instruction for the assistance action is input. This examiner's controller is used by the examiner, acting as an assistant, to operate the subjective refraction device, thereby preventing inexperienced examiners from interfering with the self-examination by touching the controller. Alternatively, the restrictions on operational inputs from the examiner's controller may be lifted if an execution instruction is input. That is, in addition to inputting a call execution instruction, the input as an execution instruction for the assistance action may also include, for example, an instruction to temporarily stop the self-refraction process to perform the assistance action. In this case, the execution instruction for the assistance action may be input by either the examinee or the examiner.

[0091] Furthermore, during the self-refraction assistance step, responses from the examinee can be restricted when instructions for assisting actions are input, and restrictions on the operator's input via the controller can be lifted. Thus, for example, it is possible to reliably switch between self-refraction performed by the examinee and assisted refraction performed by the operator, and to prevent unintended progression of each examination.

[0092] The self-examination assistance process may also include an output step, in which the elapsed time since the time the call execution instruction was entered is output. Thus, for example, it is possible to confirm the elapsed time since the time the call execution instruction was entered.

[0093] When starting auxiliary actions in an examination item where the call execution instruction has been entered, the main body of the subjective device can be controlled during the self-refraction assistance step to achieve the examination state at the time the call execution instruction has been entered. For example, the target presentation unit can display the target at the time the call execution instruction has been entered, and the corrective optics system can set the correction value at the time the call execution instruction has been entered. Thus, for example, the examination state at the call execution time can be maintained, and auxiliary actions can be performed smoothly from examination states that are difficult for the examinee to handle, thereby reducing examinations with useless settings.

[0094] In this case, for example, the main body of the subjective device can be automatically controlled to achieve the check state at the time when the call execution instruction was input, or the check state at the time when the call execution instruction was input can be displayed on the display device, and the check state at the time when the call execution instruction was input can be adjusted by the examiner's manual operation. Furthermore, by presenting the visual target and setting the correction value, the check state at the time of call execution can be further reproduced, but it is also possible to perform only one of the visual target presentation or correction value setting.

[0095] When starting an auxiliary operation for a test item at the time the call execution instruction was input, the main body of the subjective device can be controlled during the self-refractionation assistance step to achieve the initial state of the test item at the time the call execution instruction was input. For example, the target presentation unit can display the target at the start of the test item at the time the call execution instruction was input, and the corrective optics system can set the correction value at the start of the test item at the time the call execution instruction was input. Thus, for example, the test can be performed from the initial state of the test at the time of call execution. Therefore, if the test at the time the call execution instruction was input is performed improperly, the test can be temporarily reset, and by performing the test from the start time, the test can be performed smoothly. By performing both target presentation and correction value setting, the initial state of the test at the time of call execution can be further reproduced, but only one of target presentation and correction value setting can be performed. In this case, for example, the main body of the subjective device can be automatically controlled to become the initial state of the inspection item at the time when the call execution instruction is input, or the initial state of the inspection item at the time when the call execution instruction is input can be displayed on the display device, and the inspector can manually adjust it to the initial state of the inspection item at the time when the call execution instruction is input.

[0096] Furthermore, the correction value (initial value) set as the initial state can be based on at least one of objective measurement data, previous spectacle data, and past subjective measurement data. Of course, different initial values ​​than those described above can also be used. In this case, any arbitrary value (e.g., a default value (e.g., 0)) can be set as the initial value.

[0097] For example, objective measurement data can be obtained by objectively measuring the optical characteristics of the examined eye. In this case, the optical characteristics of the examined eye measured objectively can include refractive power (e.g., spherical power, astigmatism, astigmatic axis angle, etc.), polarization characteristics, interpupillary distance, etc. Alternatively, objective data can be obtained by measuring the optical characteristics of the eyeglasses worn by the examinee. In this case, the optical characteristics of the eyeglasses can include refractive power (e.g., spherical power, astigmatism, astigmatic axis angle, etc.), polarization characteristics, interpupillary distance, etc. Furthermore, objective data can also be obtained by subjectively measuring the optical characteristics of the examined eye, such as the results of past subjective measurements performed by the examinee. For example, objective measurement data can also be obtained by subjectively measuring the optical characteristics of the examined eye. In this case, for example, the optical characteristics of the eye being examined, which are subjectively measured, can be listed as the eye's refractive power (e.g., spherical power, astigmatism power, astigmatic axis angle, etc.), polarization characteristics, interpupillary distance, etc.

[0098] Alternatively, both first and second controls can be selectively executed. In the first control, the main body of the subjective device is controlled to enter an inspection state at the time the call execution instruction was input. In the second control, the main body of the subjective device is controlled to enter an initial state for the inspection items at the time the call execution instruction was input. In this case, the controller for the inspector can also be configured to allow the inspector to select between the first and second controls. Thus, for example, the inspector can select the device settings for when assisting the inspector, based on the inspection status at the time the call execution instruction was input, after listening to the inspection situation.

[0099] When the inspector uses the first and second controls differently, for example, if it is the beginning stage of an inspection item for which a call execution instruction has been entered, the second control is selected; if it is the end stage of an inspection item for which a call execution instruction has been entered, the first control is selected. In this case, if it is a monocular inspection, the device settings can be performed only on the eye being tested. Alternatively, the inspector may choose the control they desire, without being limited to the differentiated use described above.

[0100] Furthermore, self-examination assistance steps can also be performed based on instructions input into a second information processing device, which is another information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network. For example, in cases where the examiner is located at a distance from the examinee, it is difficult to monitor the progress of the self-examination and to determine the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction was input. Therefore, in the self-examination assistance steps, the timing for starting the assistance action is set such that the assistance action begins at the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction was input. Thus, even an examiner located at a distance can smoothly perform assistance actions for examination items that are difficult for the examinee to handle, thereby effectively assisting the examinee during self-examination.

[0101] <Implementation Method>

[0102] (System Architecture)

[0103] Hereinafter, one of the typical embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 As shown, the subjective optometry system 100 of this embodiment includes a subjective optometry device 1 and a first information processing device 2A. The subjective optometry device 1 is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The optical characteristics of the examined eye measured by the subjective optometry device 1 of this embodiment are ocular refractive power. The measured ocular refractive power can also be at least one of the spherical power, cylindrical power, and astigmatic axis angle of the examined eye. The first information processing device 2A is connected to the subjective optometry device 1. Hereinafter, the first information processing device 2A may also be referred to as a connecting device. In addition, the first information processing device 2A is connected to a second information processing device 2B, which is another information processing device, via a network 5. That is, the first information processing device 2A of this embodiment is sometimes remotely accessed by the second information processing device 2B. The devices will be described in detail below.

[0104] The subjective refraction device 1 will be described. The subjective refraction device 1 includes an ocular refractive power measuring unit 10, a visual target presentation unit 15, and a relay unit 19.

[0105] The ocular refractive power measurement unit 10 includes a corrective optical system 11 and a drive unit 12. The corrective optical system 11 changes the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye. That is, the corrective optical system 11 changes at least one of the spherical power, cylindrical power, astigmatic axis angle, polarization characteristics, and aberrations of the target beam. As an example, the corrective optical system 11 of this embodiment changes the optical characteristics of the target beam by switching the optical element of the examination window arranged in front of the examined eye among a plurality of optical elements. In the corrective optical system 11 of this embodiment, a left-eye lens disk and a right-eye lens disk with a plurality of optical elements arranged on the same circumference are used. The left-eye lens disk and the right-eye lens disk can each be one or multiple. For optical elements, at least one of the following can be used, such as a spherical lens, a cylindrical lens, a cross-cylindrical lens, a rotating prism, and a wavefront modulation element. The drive unit 12 changes the optical characteristics of the target beam by driving the corrective optical system 11. In this embodiment, the drive unit 12 rotates the left and right eye lens disks respectively to switch the optical elements disposed in the examination window, thereby driving the corrective optical system 11. For the drive unit 12, a stepper motor, for example, can be used. The drive unit 12 is driven according to a drive signal.

[0106] The target presentation unit 15 presents test targets (e.g., at least one of the Landau ring target and characters) to the examined eye and switches the test targets presented to the examined eye. Specifically, the target presentation unit 15 includes a target presentation section 16 and a drive section 17. The target presentation section 16 presents the test targets to the examined eye. The target presentation section 16 can be, for example, a space-saving target projection device that projects the test targets to the examined eye via a concave mirror, a chart projector that projects the test targets onto a screen, or a display that displays the test targets. The target presentation section 16 is positioned at approximately the same height as the eye refractive power measurement unit 10, with the distance from the examined eye being an optically predetermined distance. The drive section 17 switches the test targets presented to the examined eye by driving the target presentation section 16. The drive section 17 is driven according to a drive signal.

[0107] The relay unit 19 relays drive signals between the first information processing device 2A and the drive units 12 and 17. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the system that outputs the drive signal from the first information processing device 2A differs from the system that controls the drive signal of at least one of the drive units 12 and 17. In this embodiment, the relay unit 19 converts the drive signal received from the first information processing device 2A into a drive signal capable of controlling the drive units 12 and 17, and sends it to the drive units 12 and 17. Moreover, as an example, when the relay unit 19 receives a single drive signal from the first information processing device 2A for driving both drive units 12 and 17 together, it converts the received drive signal into two separate drive signals for driving each drive unit 12 and 17, and sends them to the respective drive units 12 and 17.

[0108] The first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B will be described. At least any one of various information processing devices capable of processing various types of information can be used for the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B. As an example, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") is used for the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B of this embodiment. However, the information processing device that can function as the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B of this embodiment is not limited to a PC. For example, a server, a portable terminal, or a smartphone can also be used as at least any one of the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B. At least any one of the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B can also be composed of multiple devices. For example, the first information processing device 2A can also be composed of a dedicated controller equipped with a controller and a storage device and a personal computer.

[0109] The first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B are connected in a communicable state via a network (e.g., the Internet) 5. Figure 1 The example shown illustrates a case where multiple second information processing devices 2B are connected to a first information processing device 2A. However, it is also possible to connect a first information processing device 2A to a single second information processing device 2B. Furthermore, a second information processing device 2B can also be connected to multiple first information processing devices 2A.

[0110] The first information processing device 2A is disposed at a location (e.g., an optical shop or hospital) where subjective refraction is performed on a subject. The first information processing device 2A includes a CPU 21A and a storage device 22A. The CPU 21A is a control unit (controller) responsible for controlling the first information processing device 2A. The storage device 22A can store programs and various data. In this embodiment, the refraction control program is stored in the storage device 22A.

[0111] The first information processing device 2A is connected to the subjective optometry device 1 (more specifically, the relay unit 19 of the subjective optometry device 1) in a communicable state. Various standards, such as LAN, can be used for the connection between the first information processing device 2A and the subjective optometry device 1. Furthermore, the first information processing device 2A is connected to the objective optometry device 3 in a communicable state. The objective optometry device 3 measures the optical characteristics of the examined eye (e.g., at least one of spherical power, cylindrical power, and astigmatic axis angle) objectively. Various standards, such as LAN, can be used for the connection between the first information processing device 2A and the objective optometry device 3. Additionally, the objective optometry device 3 can also be connected to the relay unit 19. The measurement results of the objective optometry device 3 can also be stored in the storage device provided in the relay unit 19.

[0112] The first information processing device 2A is connected to a camera 31A, a microphone 32A, a speaker 33A, an operation unit 34A, and a display unit 35A. The camera 31A captures images. Specifically, in this embodiment, the camera 31A captures motion images of the subject. The microphone 32A converts sound into an audio signal and outputs it. The speaker 33A converts the audio signal into sound. The operation unit 34A is operated by a user (e.g., a subject) to input various instructions. The operation unit 34A can also use at least one of, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel. Alternatively, a dedicated operation unit (e.g., a joystick) suitable for inputting responses to subjective refraction can be used as the operation unit 34A. The display unit 35A displays various images. For the display unit 35B, various devices capable of displaying images (e.g., at least one of, a monitor, a display, and a projector) can be used.

[0113] The second information processing device 2B is installed at a location where examiners who perform refraction tests using the subjective refraction device 1 (e.g., opticians, doctors, or nurses skilled in using the subjective refraction device 1) can conduct such tests. The second information processing device 2B includes a CPU 21B and a storage device 22B. The CPU 21B is a control unit (controller) responsible for controlling the second information processing device 2B. The storage device 22B can store programs and various data.

[0114] The second information processing device 2B is connected to a camera 31A, a microphone 32A, a speaker 33A, an operation unit 34A, and a display unit 35A. These devices can be used with various devices, similar to those connected to the first information processing device 2A.

[0115] (Procedure / Refraction Method)

[0116] The program installed in the first information processing device 2A of this embodiment will be described. As described above, the storage device 22A of the first information processing device 2A stores a program for performing optometry control processing (see reference). Figure 2 The refraction control program includes a drive control program for performing drive control and a self-refraction program for performing self-refraction. The drive control program sends control signals to the subjective refraction device 1 to control its drive. The self-refraction program automatically advances the refraction performed using the subjective refraction device 1 based on responses input by the subject. Furthermore, the drive control program for performing drive control and the self-refraction program for performing self-refraction can be prepared separately or assembled into a single program.

[0117] The subjective refraction method that can be performed by the subjective refraction system 100 of this embodiment will be described. The subjective refraction system 100 of this embodiment can perform self-refraction and remote refraction. Self-refraction is refraction performed by a self-refraction procedure. That is, in the case of self-refraction, the refraction is basically automatically advanced based on the response input by the examinee. In addition, in the subjective refraction system 100 of this embodiment, if a problem occurs during the advancement of self-refraction, self-refraction assistance processing is performed to assist the advancement of self-refraction. Self-refraction assistance processing can also be performed based on the instruction signal input to the remote second information processing device 2B. Therefore, even if a problem occurs during the advancement of self-refraction, refraction can be performed smoothly. Hereinafter, self-refraction will be described in detail.

[0118] (Refraction control processing)

[0119] Reference Figures 2 to 4 An example of the refraction control processing performed by the first information processing device 2A of the subjective refraction system 100 of this embodiment will be described. In the refraction control processing, for example, processing for controlling self-refraction and processing for assisting self-refraction are performed. When an instruction to begin subjective refraction of the examined eye is input to the first information processing device 2A, the CPU 21A of the first information processing device 2A executes the refraction control program. Figure 2 The illustrated optometry control process.

[0120] As an example, in this embodiment, the refraction control processing is performed while one or more second information processing devices 2B have established communication (e.g., remote access) with the first information processing device 2A. However, communication between the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B can also occur during the refraction control processing (e.g., Figure 4 The self-examination assistance process shown is established at the start of the process. Furthermore, the communication method between the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B can be appropriately selected. For example, remote access from the second information processing device 2B to the first information processing device 2A can be established using RAS (Remote Access Service).

[0121] First, the CPU 21A acquires the objective refraction result (S1). As an example, the first information processing device 2A in this embodiment obtains the objective refraction result from the objective refraction device 3 (see reference 3) connected via a LAN or relay unit 19, etc. Figure 1 The process of obtaining objective refraction results for the same subject can be performed. However, the CPU 21A can also obtain objective refraction results for the same subject via a removable memory or network 5, for example. Furthermore, objective refraction results can also be input by the user via the operation unit 34A, etc. If objective refraction results for the same subject are not available, the processing in step S1 can be omitted.

[0122] Next, the CPU 21A sets up the self-examination process (S3). In Figure 3 The advancement process display bar 52 shows a portion of an example of the advancement process of self-refractionation used in the subjective refraction system 100 of this embodiment (in... Figure 3 (This refers only to the propulsion process of the right eye). For example, in... Figure 3 As illustrated, the advancement process used in this embodiment determines the multiple tests (multiple examinations) performed on the subject and the order in which the tests are performed. For example, in... Figure 3 The procedure shown involves performing the R / G test (S), cross-cylindrical lens test (A), cross-cylindrical lens test (C), R / G test, and VA test on the subject's right eye, followed by the same tests on the subject's left eye. In the R / G test (S), the spherical power of the tested eye is measured. In the cross-cylindrical lens test (A), the astigmatic axis angle of the tested eye is measured. In the cross-cylindrical lens test (C), the astigmatic power of the tested eye is measured. The subsequent R / G test confirms the effectiveness of the accommodation performed by the tested eye during the completed test. In the VA test, the maximum visual acuity of the tested eye is measured.

[0123] In S1, if the results of an objective refraction for the same subject are obtained, in S3, the self-refraction process is set according to the results of the objective refraction (e.g., at least one of the ocular refractive power (spherical power, astigmatism power, and astigmatic axis angle) measured for the same eye). For example, in each test included in the process, the optical elements initially arranged in the examination window of the corrective optics system 11, as well as the type and size of the target presented by the target presentation unit 16, can be set according to the results of the objective refraction. In addition, if the astigmatism power obtained by the objective refraction is below a threshold, a process that omits astigmatism-related tests (e.g., cross-cylinder test (A) and cross-cylinder test (C)) can be set. In addition, if no results of an objective refraction are obtained in S1, a default process can be set in S3.

[0124] Next, the CPU 21A determines the next presentation action of the visual target to be executed by the subjective refraction device 1 according to the progress process set in S3 and the progress of the autorefraction, and outputs a presentation instruction signal (drive signal) for executing the determined presentation action to the subjective refraction device 1 (S5). Specifically, in S5 of this embodiment, at least one of the optical elements arranged in the examination window of the corrective optical system 11 and the visual target presented in the visual target presentation unit 16 is determined as the next presentation action. A drive signal for executing the determined action, targeting at least one of the drive unit 12 and drive unit 17, is sent to the subjective refraction device 1. Furthermore, when sending the drive signal to the subjective refraction device 1, the CPU 21A outputs a guiding sound corresponding to the examination content from the speaker 33A. Therefore, the examinee can observe the presented examination target after properly understanding the examination content.

[0125] In this embodiment, the drive signal is transmitted via the relay unit 19 (see reference 19). Figure 1 The signal is sent from the first information processing device 2A to the drive units 12 and 17. Therefore, the signal sent from the first information processing device 2A does not need to pass through a dedicated controller or the like. As a result, signal processing performed by a dedicated controller or the like can be omitted, and thus refraction can be performed more smoothly.

[0126] In self-refractionation, after the subject understands the examination content based on the guided voice, they visually recognize the examination targets presented by the subjective refraction device 1 and input their visual recognition response into the first information processing device 2A. As an example, in this embodiment, the response is input by the subject operating a dedicated operation unit (subject controller) 34A suitable for inputting responses to subjective refraction. However, the response can also be input using a common operation unit 34A (e.g., a mouse, touch panel, or keyboard). Alternatively, the response can be input using a sound signal transformed by the microphone 32A.

[0127] CPU 21A determines whether a response from the examinee has been input (S7). If a response has been input (S7: "Yes"), the input response and the optically specific correction value (measurement value) of the examined eye are stored in storage device 22A (S8). The correction value of the optical characteristics of the examined eye is obtained based on the response input in S7, the visual target presented in the examined eye when the response was input, and the optical characteristics of the optical elements arranged in the examination window of the corrective optics system 11 (i.e., the optical characteristics of the visual target beam).

[0128] Next, if a series of self-refractions has not been completed (S9: "No"), the process returns to S5, allowing the self-refraction to continue according to the progress sequence. As an example, in the VA test of this embodiment, if the response from the test subject obtained in S7 is correct, the CPU 21A determines the next optotype presentation action by setting the optotype presented by the optotype presentation unit 16 to a optotype with a visual acuity value one level higher than the previously presented optotype (e.g., a optotype one level smaller). Conversely, if the response from the test subject obtained in S7 is incorrect, the CPU 21A determines the next optotype presentation action by setting the optotype presented by the optotype presentation unit 16 to a optotype with a visual acuity value one level lower than the previously presented optotype (e.g., a optotype one level larger). Furthermore, the CPU 21A can also determine the correction power of the optical elements arranged in the examination window of the corrective optics system 11 as the next optotype presentation action while switching optotypes.

[0129] In addition, repeat the process from S7 to S9. If a series of self-refractions are successfully completed (S9: "Yes"), the refraction control process ends directly.

[0130] If no response is received from the subject (S7: "No"), it is determined whether the self-refractionation condition meets the predefined condition of a high probability of inappropriateness (S11). For example, in this embodiment, if no response is received from the subject after the presentation instruction signal is sent in S5 and a predetermined time has elapsed, it is determined that the predefined condition has been met. Furthermore, if the response received by the subject is inappropriate (e.g., a response different from the candidate requested by the subject is received, the same response is received more than a predetermined number of times consecutively, or a response is received more times than requested by the subject), it is determined that the predefined condition has been met. If the predefined condition is met (S11: "Yes"), self-refractionation assistance processing is performed (S13).

[0131] Furthermore, if no response is received from the subject (S7: "No") and the conditions for self-examination are not met (S11: "No"), the CPU 21A determines whether the subject has input an execution instruction for assistive actions in self-examination (S12). For example, in this embodiment, the subject can input the execution instruction for assistive actions in self-examination by operating the HELP button 70 provided on the dedicated operation unit (subject controller) 34A or the help button displayed on the display unit 35A. If no input is received (S12: "No"), the process returns to S7. If an execution instruction for assistive actions is received (S12: "Yes"), self-examination assistance processing is performed (S13).

[0132] Reference Figure 4 The details of the self-examination assistance process will be explained below. First, CPU 21A executes examiner call processing (S21). As an example, in S21 of this embodiment, CPU 21A sends an examiner call instruction (S4) via network 5 to one or more second information processing devices 2B that have established remote access with the first information processing device 2A. The examiner call instruction is an instruction for the second information processing device 2B to perform an examiner call action to entrust the examiner to perform self-examination assistance. For example, the call action can be performed by at least one method such as sound output and image display. By performing the call action, the user (examiner) of the second information processing device 2B can properly understand the need for self-examination assistance (remote assistance in this embodiment).

[0133] Next, CPU 21A determines whether there is a response from an examiner who is a user of the second information processing device 2B (S22). If no response is received from either second information processing device 2B (S22: "No"), the examiner cannot perform self-examination assistance, and therefore enters a standby state after repeating the determination in S22. When a user of a second information processing device 2B becomes capable of assisting with self-examination and inputs a response instruction to the second information processing device 2B (S22: "Yes"), the process proceeds to S23.

[0134] Next, CPU 21A begins transmitting and receiving audio data with the second information processing device 2B used by the examinee for assisting self-refractionation, thereby initiating communication processing (S23). As a result, the assistive processing for self-refractionation, which will be explained later, is performed while the examinee and examiner are able to converse. Specifically, CPU 21A transmits audio data input via microphone 32A to the second information processing device 2B. Additionally, CPU 21A receives audio data input via microphone 32B to the second information processing device 2B and outputs it to speaker 33A. Furthermore, CPU 21A can also transmit and receive image data simultaneously with transmitting and receiving audio data with the second information processing device 2B. In this case, CPU 21A can also transmit image data input via camera 31A to the second information processing device 2B. Additionally, CPU 21A can also receive image data input via camera 32B to the second information processing device 2B and display it on display unit 35A.

[0135] Next, the CPU 21A displays the self-examination auxiliary screen on the display unit 35B of the second information processing device 2B used by the examiner to assist with self-examination (see reference). Figure 3 (S24). For example Figure 3 As shown, the self-examination assistance screen in this embodiment includes an operation image area 50 and a progress display area 51.

[0136] An operation image containing information about the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye is displayed in the operation image area 50. In this embodiment, the operation image displays values ​​related to the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye for each type of optical characteristic. The examiner can indicate the desired value among the various types of optical characteristics (spherical power, cylindrical power, and astigmatic axis angle, etc.) by operating various buttons and values ​​on the operation image area 50 using an operation unit such as a touch panel or mouse. Furthermore, if an optometry is performed appropriately, the corrected values ​​of the optical characteristics displayed in the operation image become the measured values ​​of the optical characteristics of the examined eye.

[0137] In this embodiment, the propulsion process display area 51 is displayed not only on the display unit 35B connected to the second information processing device 2B, but also on the display unit 35A connected to the first information processing device 2A. The propulsion process display area 51 in this embodiment includes a propulsion process display bar 52, an elapsed time display bar 54, left and right eye display bars 55, a help button 56, and a top button 57. As described above, the propulsion process displayed in the propulsion process display bar 52 shows the propulsion process set in relation to the self-examination being performed. Furthermore, in... Figure 3 In the example shown, the process in progress at this point in time during the entire advancement process (that is, the multiple tests included in the advancement process) is shown above the advancement process by arrow 53 and a thick box.

[0138] The elapsed time display bar 54 shows the elapsed time since the start of the self-refraction process. The left and right eye display bar 55 shows which eye of the subject is being processed at this point in time during the entire process. When the subject inputs instructions for assisting with the self-refraction process, the subject operates the help button 56. To return the screen displayed in the progress display area 51 to the top screen of the self-refraction procedure, the top button 57 is operated.

[0139] In the self-refraction assistance described later (S24-S43), as described above, the sound signal input from microphone 32A to the first information processing device 2A is converted into sound by the speaker 33B of the second information processing device 2B. Furthermore, the sound signal input from microphone 32B to the second information processing device 2B is converted into sound by the speaker 33A of the first information processing device 2A. Therefore, the examiner and the examinee can converse during self-refraction assistance. Additionally, the examiner using the second information processing device 2B during self-refraction assistance can input various instructions for assisting self-refraction through at least one of the operation unit 34B and microphone 32B.

[0140] Next, CPU 21A determines whether the process is being performed manually by the examiner (S26). In this embodiment, either indirect assistance or manual assistance is selected as the method for examiner-assisted self-refraction. Indirect assistance is performed by the examiner indirectly assisting the self-refraction while the self-refraction performed through the self-refraction procedure is advanced according to the advancement process set in S3. Manual assistance is performed by advancing the refraction according to the instructions input by the examiner, instead of advancing the self-refraction according to the advancement process, thereby assisting the self-refraction.

[0141] The examiner can use various methods to make the first information processing device 2A perform either indirect assistance or manual assistance. For example, in this embodiment, it is preset to perform indirect assistance first when the self-refraction assistance process begins. Furthermore, switching from indirect assistance to manual assistance is achieved by inputting action instructions, correction value correction instructions, or process omission instructions to the subjective refraction device 1 using various buttons on the operation image area 50. However, the method for switching between indirect and manual assistance can be appropriately selected. For example, a button for switching between indirect and manual assistance can be provided on the self-refraction assistance screen.

[0142] If indirect assistance is being performed (S26: "No"), the CPU 21A determines whether the examiner or the examinee has input a response from the examinee who has visually recognized the presented target (S27). In this embodiment, during indirect assistance, the examinee can input a response heard from the examinee to the second information processing device 2B by operating the operation unit 34B connected to the second information processing device 2B. The response input to the second information processing device 2B is sent to the second information processing device 2A. Therefore, even if the examinee cannot grasp the response method in self-refraction, the self-refraction can be appropriately assisted. In addition, in this embodiment, even during indirect assistance, the examiner can also communicate with the examinee in the above-mentioned S7 (see S27). Figure 2 Similarly, the examinee can manually input the response after visually recognizing the target. Therefore, if the examinee has learned the response method by following the examiner's advice, they can also manually input the response to advance the refraction process. However, during indirect assistance, the response can also be received by either the first information processing device 2A or the second information processing device 2B.

[0143] If the respondent's response is not input into either the first information processing device 2A or the second information processing device 2B (S27: "No"), the process proceeds directly to S38. When the respondent's response is input into either the first information processing device 2A or the second information processing device 2B (S27: "Yes"), the process proceeds to S8 (see reference). Figure 2 Similarly, the input response and the optically specific measurement values ​​of the examined eye are stored in the storage device 22A (S28). Next, the CPU 21A proceeds according to S3 (refer to...). Figure 2 The process is determined by the progression set in the sequence and the progress status at that point in time, which determines the next visual target presentation action to be performed by the subjective refraction device 1. A presentation instruction signal (drive signal) for performing the determined presentation action is then output to the subjective refraction device 1 (S29). In other words, the self-refraction performed by the self-refraction procedure according to the progression continues thereafter. After that, the process proceeds to S38.

[0144] Additionally, if the process is in the form of manual assistance rather than indirect assistance (S26: "Yes"), CPU21A determines whether the examiner has input an action instruction to manually advance at least a portion of the advancement process (S31). The examiner can, for example, use a self-examination assistive screen (see...) Figure 3 The examiner determines the action instructions for the subjective optometry device 1 (that is, instructions for the configuration of optical elements in the corrective optical system 11 and instructions for the presentation of visual targets in the visual target presentation unit 16) based on the displayed content or the dialogue with the examinee. In this case, the examinee inputs the determined action instructions to the second information processing device 2B via the operation unit 34B, etc. The first information processing device 2A obtains the input action instructions via the network 5. When the action instructions are input and obtained (S31: "Yes"), the CPU 21A sends a presentation instruction signal (drive signal) to the subjective optometry device 1 to cause the subjective optometry device 1 to perform the indicated action (S32).

[0145] Next, CPU 21A determines whether the input in S8 (refer to) has been verified by self-examination. Figure 2 The examiner determines that a correction instruction (S33) is needed for the correction value displayed on the self-examination aid screen (see S28). Figure 3 When correcting the correction value (measured value), the CPU 21A inputs a correction instruction for the correction value to be corrected to the second information processing device 2B via the operation unit 34B, etc. The first information processing device 2A obtains the input correction instruction via the network 5. When the correction instruction is input and obtained (S33: "Yes"), the CPU 21A corrects the correction value according to the instruction (S34).

[0146] Next, CPU 21A determines whether an omission instruction for at least a portion of the propulsion process (at least any one of multiple tests in this embodiment) has been input (S35). When an omission instruction is input via the second information processing device 2B and the network 5 (S35: "Yes"), CPU 21A omits the indicated test from the multiple tests included in the propulsion process (S36). After that, the process proceeds to S38.

[0147] Next, CPU 21A determines whether a series of refraction tests performed on the subject has been completed (S38). For example, CPU 21A may determine that a series of refraction tests has been completed if the self-refraction performed according to the progress process has been completed. Alternatively, CPU 21A may determine that a series of refraction tests has been completed if an instruction to end the refraction test on the subject has been input. If a series of refraction tests has been completed (S38: "Yes"), the process ends.

[0148] Next, CPU 21A determines whether a continue restart instruction for self-examination has been input (S39). The continue restart instruction is as follows: From S3 (refer to...) Figure 2 The process of restarting the refraction test is set to begin from the next stage of the already completed refraction process in the advancement process (S40), and the refraction test is restarted. For example, the CPU 21A can also determine that a continue restart instruction has been input when the subject operates the continue restart button (not shown). When a continue restart instruction is input via the second information processing device 2B and the network 5 (S39: "Yes"), the CPU 21A sets the restart process of restarting the self-refraction test to begin from the next stage of the already completed refraction process in the advancement process (S40), and the processing returns to the refraction control processing (see reference). Figure 2 In the subsequent processes S5 to S9, the auto-refractionation is restarted starting from the restart process set in S40. If no instruction to continue restarting is input (S39: "No"), the process proceeds directly to S42.

[0149] Next, CPU 21A determines whether a designated restart instruction for self-examination has been input (S42). The designated restart instruction is as follows: from S3 (refer to...) Figure 2 The self-refractionation process is restarted by the examiner specifying a step in the advancement process set in the self-refractionation assistance screen. In this embodiment, the examiner can restart the self-refractionation process by specifying a step in the advancement process display bar 52 (see reference 52). Figure 3 The self-refractionation process is restarted by inputting a specified restart instruction. For example, in this embodiment, the examiner inputs the specified restart instruction using a mouse or touch panel. Alternatively, a specified restart instruction button (reset button) can be provided in the self-refractionation assistance screen or similar device to delete previously performed self-refractionation results according to the progress process and restart the self-refractionation from the beginning of the progress process. When a specified restart instruction is input via the second information processing device 2 and the network 5 (S42: "Yes"), the CPU 21A sets the restart process for restarting the self-refractionation to the process specified by the specified restart instruction in the progress process (S43), and processing returns to the refraction control processing (see reference). Figure 2 In the subsequent S5-S9 processes, the self-examination is restarted starting from the restart process set in S43.

[0150] The technology disclosed in the above embodiments is merely one example. Therefore, the technology exemplified in the above embodiments can be modified. For example, only a portion of the technology exemplified in the above embodiments can be implemented. As an example, the subjective optometry system 100 of the above embodiments performs both examiner call processing (S21) and examiner assistance processing for self-optometry (S23-S43) when a problem occurs during self-optometry (S11: "Yes", or S12: "Yes"). However, the subjective optometry system 100 may also perform only one of the examiner call processing and examiner assistance processing. For example, even if only the examiner is called through the examiner call processing, self-optometry can be appropriately assisted.

[0151] In the above embodiment, self-refractionation begins with the second information processing device 2B connected to the first information processing device 2A. However, if a problem occurs during self-refractionation (S11: "Yes", or S12: "Yes"), the second information processing device 2B can be connected to the first information processing device 2A.

[0152] The self-examination assistance process of this embodiment is performed according to instructions input to the second information processing device 2B located at a remote location (see reference). Figure 4 However, self-refraction assistance can also be performed based on instructions directly input to the first information processing device 2A (e.g., instructions input to the first information processing device 2A by the examiner operating the operation unit 34A). That is, an examiner located in a place where the subjective refraction device 1 is installed can also input instructions for assisting self-refraction. Furthermore, the input of instructions for assisting self-refraction can be received from both the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B. In this case, the examiner can assist with self-refraction regardless of whether they are located in a place where the subjective refraction device 1 is installed or at a distance. Furthermore, when instructions for assisting self-refraction are input via the first information processing device 2A, in S21 (refer to...) Figure 4 The process of calling the inspector can be performed either in the first information processing device 2A or in both the first information processing device 2A and the second information processing device 2B.

[0153] In addition, Figure 2 S5 and Figure 4 In S29, the processing of outputting a presentation indicator signal to the subjective refraction device 1 based on the advancement process is an example of the "self-refraction advancement step". Figure 2 S7 and Figure 4 The process of obtaining a response from the examinee in S27 is an example of the "response retrieval step". Figure 2 S8 and Figure 4The process of storing the correction value in S28 is an example of the "correction value storage step". Figure 4 The self-refractionation aid shown is an example of a "self-refractionation aid procedure". In Figure 4 The processing in S31 and S32, which outputs a presentation indicator signal based on the action instruction, is an example of a "manual advancement step". Figure 4 The process of correcting the correction value in S33 and S34 is an example of the "correction value correction step". Figure 4 The omission of the propagation process in S35 and S36 is an example of "omitted steps in the process". Figure 4 The process in S27, which involves obtaining the examinee's response based on instructions input by the inspector, is an example of the "proxy response retrieval step." Figure 4 The procedure in S39 and S40 that allows self-refractionation to restart from the next step is an example of "continuing to restart the step." Figure 4 In S42 and S43, the procedure of restarting self-refractionation from the process specified by the examiner is an example of "specifying the restart step." Figure 4 The procedures in S33 and S34 that restart self-refractionation are an example of the "self-refractionation restart step". Figure 4 The processing of the propulsion process shown in S24 is an example of "process display steps".

[0154] Setting the timing of checks based on call execution instructions

[0155] The following describes an example of an embodiment for performing an inspector call processing. When the examinee calls the help button 70 located on the examinee's controller (for example, see...), Figure 5 When performing the operation, the CPU 21A accepts the input of the call execution instruction and executes the inspector call action.

[0156] <Inspector's Call>

[0157] As an inspector calling action, CPU 21A may also cause a display device (e.g., at least one of display unit 35A and display unit 35B) to display a call display for calling the inspector. The display form of the call display may, for example, be a message for calling the inspector (e.g., Figure 6 The Help (HELP) section displays 58a) and markings for calling inspectors (e.g., see reference 58a). Figure 6 At least one of the symbols in 58b). In addition, it is not limited to these forms, and various transformations such as making the display screen flicker or changing the background of the display screen can also be performed.

[0158] In this case, the display device for displaying the call display is not limited to display unit 35A or display unit 35B. It can be a fixed display (a display different from display unit 35A) installed in a facility with an optometry device, or a display of a tablet or smartphone owned by staff in the facility (a display different from display unit 35A). Of course, this embodiment can also be applied to a display different from display unit 35B used at a distance. Furthermore, the display device may not be a general display, but may be an inspector's controller operated by the inspector (for example, see [reference]). Figure 5 It goes without saying that the inspector uses the display of the controller 76 and the operating unit 34B.

[0159] Furthermore, as an action to call the examiner, the CPU 21A can, for example, generate a calling sound for calling the examiner via a sound generation unit. The sound can be, for example, a sound indicating the name of a specific examiner, or a sound indicating that the examiner should move towards the main body of the subjective optometry device. Alternatively, it can output a simple beeping sound based on a call execution instruction.

[0160] Furthermore, CPU 21A can also output the elapsed time since the time the call execution instruction was input (for example, referring to...). Figure 6 (Time display 59). For example, the CPU 21A can also display the elapsed time while performing a call display for the caller. In this case, the elapsed time can also be output by measuring the time from the point when the call execution instruction was input. Furthermore, the form of displaying the elapsed time is not limited to a numerical display; for example, it can be represented by a graphic (e.g., an indicator) that changes according to the elapsed time. Furthermore, the output method is not limited to a display and can be varied in various ways. For example, the elapsed time can also be output in the form of sound.

[0161] By outputting the elapsed time as described above, for example, visualizing the time elapsed since the input of the call execution instruction, it serves as an incentive to perform refraction as early as possible. Furthermore, the examiner providing assistance can offer an appropriate greeting corresponding to the elapsed time. For example, if the time since the call execution instruction is relatively long, a greeting such as "Thank you for waiting" can be given. Additionally, the examiner can take action starting with the examinee whose elapsed time (waiting time) is long.

[0162] Furthermore, the CPU 21A can also change the notification content based on the detection result if it detects that the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time. For example, it can also change the display format of the call display (e.g., color change, always lit → flashing, etc.) when the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time. In addition, it can also increase the volume of the call when the elapsed time has exceeded the specified time.

[0163] Furthermore, when outputting the elapsed time from the time the call execution instruction was input, the CPU 21A can also statistically output that elapsed time. For example, the CPU 21A can also output the elapsed time for each subject in tabular or graphical form. Alternatively, it can be configured to pre-measure the elapsed time for each facility and the elapsed time for each inspector, and output them in tabular or graphical form. This allows for statistical evaluation of the ability to respond quickly to call execution instructions, thus promoting individual improvements through facility-based evaluations and inspector-based evaluations, for example.

[0164] The promotion of self-examination has been halted.

[0165] Upon receiving a call execution instruction, the CPU 21A can also temporarily halt the auto-refraction process at the point in time when the call execution instruction was input.

[0166] In this situation, the CPU 21A can, for example, halt the progress of the examination at the time the call execution instruction was input. As another example, the CPU 21A may also refuse to accept responses from the subject since the time the call execution instruction was input, and will not switch to the next corrective value and target based on the autorefraction procedure. Thus, for example, the examination status at the time the call execution instruction was input (e.g., corrective value and target) can be maintained, allowing for smooth assistance from the examiner. Furthermore, it can prevent the possibility of obtaining erroneous examination results by performing the examination before addressing problems that occurred during autorefraction after the call execution instruction was given. In addition, it reduces the burden on the subject, allowing for focused processing of examinations assisted by the examiner.

[0167] To prevent the acceptance of responses from the subject, for example, CPU 21A may restrict the input of responses from the subject's controller 34A after the time point when the call execution instruction is input. In this case, CPU 21A may also cut off the input of response signals from the subject's controller 34A, and even if a response signal is received, it may be ignored in a way that does not participate in the advancement of autorefraction. In this case, it is not necessarily necessary to restrict all operations of the subject's controller 34A; for example, inputs related to the subject's response, such as inputs for input direction (e.g., joystick) and inputs for inputting whether visual recognition of the target can be performed, may be restricted.

[0168] Alternatively, to avoid switching between corrective values ​​and visual targets, the response input can be restricted as described above. However, depending on the settings of the autorefraction program, if the CPU 21A does not respond within a fixed time, it may consider it unable to perform visual recognition and switch to the next corrective value and visual target. In this case, by restricting the switching of corrective values ​​and visual targets from the time the call execution instruction was input, it is possible to prevent changes in the examination status from occurring at that time.

[0169] Additionally, the CPU 21A can also perform a discrimination display on the display screen of the display unit that displays the call execution instruction, enabling it to determine the check items at the time the call execution instruction was input. For example, the CPU 21A can also highlight the check items at the time the call execution instruction was input relative to other check items (for example, see reference). Figure 6 (The thick outline is shown, arrow 53). Alternatively, for example, the CPU 21A may be displayed in a way that corresponds to the display of the call execution instruction at the time the instruction was entered. For example, the check item may be displayed overlaid on the display indicating the call execution instruction (e.g., help display 58a, marker 58b). Furthermore, the display format of the discrimination display can be varied and is not limited to the structure described above.

[0170] Based on the discrimination shown above, the inspector can easily identify the inspection item at the time when the call execution instruction is entered, and therefore can smoothly respond to the situation based on the inspection item when the inspector performs auxiliary actions (for example, refer to the auxiliary actions in the cross-cylinder test mentioned above).

[0171] Furthermore, upon receiving a call execution instruction, the CPU 21A can also display a screen on a display device (e.g., at least one of display unit 35A, display unit 35B, or the display of the inspector controller 76) corresponding to the inspection status at the time the call execution instruction was input (e.g., refer to...). Figure 3Therefore, in addition to confirming the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction was entered, the examiner can also confirm the corrected value and optotype at the time when the call execution instruction was entered, thus enabling the examiner to smoothly implement the procedures for assisting refraction (e.g., selection of corrected value and optotype).

[0172] Furthermore, in cases where the autorefraction process is temporarily halted, the CPU 21A immediately stops the autorefraction process upon receiving a call execution instruction, thereby immediately preventing the autorefraction process from proceeding. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the CPU 21A may also stop the autorefraction process after a predetermined time has elapsed since the time the call execution instruction was received. In this case, the CPU 21A may, for example, have a signal from the examiner's controller (e.g., refer to...) within a predetermined time since the time the call execution instruction was received. Figure 5 Upon receiving a response from the examiner using the controller 76 (operation unit 34B), the self-examination process is stopped. Furthermore, the aforementioned prescribed time can be appropriately set considering the procedures and examination items involved in the self-examination.

[0173] Furthermore, the CPU 21A can also display the meaning of the ongoing call execution instruction on the visual target display unit at the time the call execution instruction is input. This allows the examinee to easily grasp the status of the ongoing call by the inspector.

[0174] <Assistive actions performed by the inspector>

[0175] Upon receiving a call execution instruction, the CPU 21A may also release the restriction on input from the inspector controller (e.g., inspector controller 76, operation unit 34B). In this case, the CPU 21A may also restrict at least a portion of the operation input from the inspector controller until a call execution instruction is input, and release the restriction on the operation input from the inspector controller upon receiving the call execution instruction.

[0176] When at least a portion of the operational input is restricted, at least one of the following inputs—operational input from the examiner and input from the examinee's response—can also be restricted to activate at least one of the corrective optical system 11 and the target presentation unit 16. Furthermore, when input restrictions are imposed, input signals from the operation unit operated by the examinee can be cut off, so that even if a response is received, it does not participate in (ignore) the progress of self-refractionation.

[0177] By restricting the operator's input to the examiner's controller until a call execution instruction is entered, operations from the examiner's controller are rendered ineffective during the self-refractionation process. This prevents, for example, the examiner from unintentionally operating the controller, violating the self-refractionation procedure by inputting responses, switching correction values, or changing targets. In this case, it is not necessary to restrict all operations of the examiner's controller. For example, input sections for receiving mandatory assistance input by the examiner, and input sections for providing suggestions to the subject via voice, text, etc., may not need to be restricted even before a call execution instruction is entered.

[0178] When a call execution instruction is input, the restriction on operational input from the examiner's controller is lifted, thereby enabling the operation of the examiner's controller. Thus, the examiner can operate the examiner's controller to assist the examinee in refraction testing. For example, the examiner can input the examinee's verbal response into the examiner's controller, or change the target, or change the correction value.

[0179] Furthermore, upon receiving a call execution instruction, the CPU 21A can quickly assist in refraction by immediately releasing the restriction on operational input from the examiner's controller. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the CPU 21A may also release the restriction on operational input from the examiner's controller after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time the call execution instruction was received. Additionally, the CPU 21A may, for example, release the restriction on operational input from the examiner's controller if a response from the examiner's controller indicates a willingness to assist in refraction.

[0180] As a process where the examiner performs auxiliary actions, such as a notification action to call the examiner, when the examiner is in a state where they can perform refraction assistance for the examinee, the examiner operates a response switch that indicates the meaning corresponding to the refraction assistance. When the response switch is pressed, the CPU 21A terminates the examiner's call action. The response switch can be as follows: Figure 6 That way, marker 58b can also be used, allowing the inspector's response signal to be input when marker 58b is touched. Of course, it is not limited to this form of response switch; a physical switch can also be used.

[0181] The examiner can also operate the examiner's controller while observing the display screen of a display device used to assist the examinee in performing examinations (e.g., at least one of display unit 35A, display unit 35B, and the display of the examiner's controller 76). For example, the CPU 21A can also cause the display device to display a process composed of multiple examination items arranged according to the self-examination procedure (e.g., referring to...). Figure 6 For example, by using the examiner's controller to select the desired examination items on the display screen, the examiner can easily select the examination items to be assisted in the refraction test. Thus, the examiner can perform the examinations for the selected items.

[0182] In the self-refractionation assistance step described above, the CPU 21A stops the self-refractionation process at the time the call execution instruction is input. This maintains the examination items at the time the call execution instruction was input, thus allowing the CPU 21A to set the examination timing for the examination items at the time the call execution instruction was input. Furthermore, the examiner can easily select the examination items at the time the call execution instruction was input as the examination items to be performed using the discrimination display related to those items. This allows the examination timing to be set for the examination items at the time the call execution instruction was input.

[0183] In this situation, by providing refraction assistance starting from the point where the call execution instruction was given, it is possible to assist with refraction for examinations where problems are highly likely to occur during self-refraction. Therefore, for example, it is easier for the examiner to track the subject's memory of the examination at the point when the call execution instruction was given. That is, if the method of response for the examination is unknown, supplementary explanations of the response method can be provided; if the visual target is completely invisible, suggestions can be made regarding the method of viewing the examination window. Furthermore, if the correction value deviates significantly from the subject's subjective value, the correction value can be adjusted.

[0184] On the other hand, considering the possibility that after a self-examination has been initiated following a call execution instruction, the examination might proceed to a different examination than the one where a problem is likely to occur, potentially leading to inappropriate handling of the problematic examination. Furthermore, it is conceivable that further examination on a high-probability-of-problem examination might cause the corrective value to deviate significantly from the examinee's appropriate subjective value, requiring more time than necessary to complete the examination properly. In contrast, by setting the timing of refraction examinations based on temporary pauses, the possibility of this problem occurring can be avoided beforehand.

[0185] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, even without selecting the inspection item, the inspector can start the inspection. For example, the CPU 21A can pre-display a screen on a display device (e.g., at least one of the display of the display unit 35A, the display unit 35B, and the display of the inspector controller 76) that corresponds to the inspection status at the time when the call execution instruction was input. Based on the operation signal from the inspector controller, it can accept the input of the response and change the target and correction value.

[0186] (Modified Example)

[0187] In the above embodiments, the self-refraction process is temporarily halted at the time when the call execution instruction is input, thereby setting the examination timing for the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction is input, but this is not limited to this. For example, in the self-refraction assistance step, the storage device 22A may store the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction is input, thereby enabling the setting of the examination timing for the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction is input based on the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction is input stored in the storage device 22A.

[0188] For example, CPU 21A can also cause storage device 22A to store inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction was input. Based on the inspection items at the time of the call execution instruction input stored in storage device 22A, a discrimination display can be performed on a display device (e.g., at least one of display unit 35A, display unit 35B, and the display of the inspector controller 76) to determine the inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction was input. The inspector can then set the inspection timing for the inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction was input based on this discrimination display.

[0189] In addition, when the CPU 21A receives the prescribed operation input from the inspector, it can also display the inspection item on the display device (e.g., at least one of the display unit 35A, display unit 35B, and the display of the inspector's controller 76) based on the inspection item at the input time of the call execution instruction stored in the storage device 22A.

[0190] Furthermore, even without setting the inspection timing based on the aforementioned screen display, the CPU 21A can automatically set the inspection timing for the inspection items at the time point of the input call execution instruction based on the inspection items stored in the storage device 22A when assisting the inspector with the operation signal from the controller.

[0191] In the above variation, the self-refractionation process can be intentionally accelerated instead of temporarily halting at the point when the call execution instruction is entered. In this case, if it is assumed that the examination was performed appropriately, it is possible to obtain more examination results before the examiner begins to assist, potentially shortening the overall examination time. However, since erroneous examination results are also possible, its implementation should be considered based on factors such as the difficulty of the examination.

[0192] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the optotype and correction value at the time point when the call execution instruction was input were set, but this is not the only limitation. It is also possible to smoothly assist in refraction by setting the optotype and correction value corresponding to the examination items at the time point when the call execution instruction was input.

[0193] For example, CPU 21A can also set the visual target and correction value at the start of the inspection for the inspection item at the time when the call execution instruction is input. In this case, CPU 21A can also set the visual target and correction value at the start of the inspection by pre-storing them in storage device 22A. Thus, for example, if the inspection at the time when the call execution instruction is input is performed improperly, by temporarily resetting the inspection and starting the inspection from the start time, the inspection can be performed smoothly. For example, this control is advantageous in cases where the correction value deviates significantly from the subjective value due to the examinee's self-examination.

[0194] Furthermore, the visual targets and corrected values ​​at the start of the examination do not necessarily need to be exactly the same. For example, they can be other visual targets with the same visual acuity values ​​as at the start of the examination. Regarding the corrected values, the spherical power can also be the same as at the start of the examination, while the astigmatic axis and astigmatic axis angle can be different values. In addition, when setting the visual targets and corrected values ​​at the time point when the call execution instruction is entered, they also do not necessarily need to be exactly the same.

[0195] Furthermore, before inputting the call execution instruction, a monitoring screen can be displayed on the display device (e.g., at least one of display unit 35A, display unit 35B, and the display of the examiner's controller 76) to monitor the progress of the self-refraction (e.g., displaying the optotype, correction value, and response content). For example, by constantly monitoring the displayed optotype and correction value, the examiner can easily grasp the progress of the self-refraction. Additionally, by displaying the examinee's response content, it is easy to determine whether the examinee's response is appropriate. Furthermore, when the call execution instruction is input, a call display for calling the examiner can be shown on the monitoring screen. Thus, the timing of the examination can be set for the examination items at the time the call execution instruction is input. During assisted refraction, the examiner can begin assisting the examinee with refraction based on prior knowledge of the progress of the self-refraction, thereby enabling more appropriate assistance.

[0196] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a timing for starting auxiliary actions is set for the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction is input. However, it is also possible to set a timing for starting auxiliary actions for examination items that are different from the examination items at the time when the call execution instruction is input. For example, in self-refractionation, when a call execution instruction is input during the astigmatism axis check in the cross-cylinder test, as an auxiliary action performed by the examiner, it is advisable to consider starting the examination from the astigmatism power check in the cross-cylinder test. In this case, a flow consisting of multiple examination items arranged based on the self-refractionation procedure is displayed. By using the examiner's controller on the display screen to select the desired examination item (e.g., the cross-cylinder test astigmatism power check), the examiner can smoothly perform the auxiliary actions.

[0197] Furthermore, in the above description, the call execution instruction is defined as the calling action of the examiner, but any calling action of the assistant is acceptable. Assistants include, for example, staff members who do not perform the examination, caregivers of the examinee, etc., in addition to the examiner conducting the subjective examination. Even when calling staff members or caregivers, the need for assistance with the refraction test is also communicated, so it is also possible for the staff member to call the examiner who can perform the subjective examination. Additionally, even staff members can expect certain suggestions, such as adjusting the positional relationship between the refraction device and the examinee.

[0198] Furthermore, in the above description, when a call execution instruction is input, the inspection timing is set for the inspection items at the time when the call execution instruction is input, but this is not a limitation. For example, CPU 21A can also set the inspection timing for the inspection items at the time when the self-refraction being performed meets the prescribed conditions, provided that the conditions for the self-refraction being performed are met. Thus, for example, it is possible to smoothly assist in refraction testing of the subject based on the inspection items at the time when the conditions for determining that the subject has a certain problem are met.

[0199] Furthermore, while the above description restricts input of responses from the subject using the controller after the call execution instruction is entered, it is not limited to this. Input to lift the restriction can also be received from the examiner's controller during refraction assistance, thereby removing the restriction on responses from the subject using the controller. In this case, the examiner can train the subject on the response input method, confirm the appropriateness of the response input, and then resume the temporarily suspended self-refraction.

[0200] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0201] 1: Subjective refraction device; 2A: First information processing device; 2B: Second information processing device; 5: Network; 10: Ocular refractive power measurement unit; 11: Corrective optical system; 15: Visual target presentation unit; 16: Visual target presentation section; 21A, 21B: CPU; 22A, 22B: Storage device; 100: Subjective refraction system Attached Figure Description

[0202] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the general structure of the subjective optometry system 100.

[0203] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the optometry control process performed by the first information processing device 2A.

[0204] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a self-examination aid screen used in this embodiment.

[0205] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the self-refractional refraction process performed in the refraction control process.

[0206] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a subjective optometry system according to this embodiment.

[0207] Figure 6 This is an example of a display screen shown in the self-examination assistance process.

Claims

1. A computer program product comprising a refraction control program, the refraction control program being executed by the first information processing device of a subjective refraction system having a subjective refraction device and a first information processing device, wherein, The subjective refraction device includes a corrective optical system that alters the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye. This subjective refraction device is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing device is connected to the subjective refraction device. The computer program product is characterized in that... This includes self-refractionation procedures that automatically advance the refraction process based on responses input by the subject. The first information processing device performs the following steps by executing the self-examination procedure through its control unit: The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items; The response acquisition step involves obtaining responses input by the subjects who have visually recognized the presented visual targets. as well as In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction. The self-examination assistance step includes the following steps: The receiving step involves the subject receiving input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction to perform a call action by a call assistant. The call execution step performs a call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step; and The inspection timing setting step, based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step, sets the inspection timing for initiating the auxiliary action in a manner that allows the auxiliary action to begin in the inspection item at the time the call execution instruction was input. In the response retrieval step, if the call execution instruction has been entered, the input of the response is restricted to be entered after the time point at which the call execution instruction was entered.

2. The computer program product according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the self-refraction assistance step, the self-refraction process is temporarily stopped at the time point when the call execution instruction is input, thereby setting the examination timing for the examination items at the time point when the call execution instruction is input.

3. The computer program product according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the self-examination assistance step, the storage unit stores the inspection items at the time point when the call execution instruction was input, thereby enabling the setting of the inspection timing for the inspection items at the time point when the call execution instruction was input based on the inspection items stored in the storage unit.

4. The computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In the self-refraction assistance step, At least a portion of the operational input from the examiner's controller is restricted until the input of the call execution instruction, the examiner's controller being used by the examiner as an assistant to operate the subjective refraction device. Upon input of the call execution instruction, the restriction on the operation input from the inspector using the controller is lifted.

5. The computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The self-examination assistance step includes an output step, in which the elapsed time from the time the call execution instruction was input is output.

6. The computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The self-examination assistance steps are performed according to instructions input into a second information processing device, which is another information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network.

7. The computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In the self-refraction assistance step, If the auxiliary action begins in the check item at the time point when the call execution instruction is entered, perform at least one of the following steps: The target display unit displays the target at the time point when the call execution instruction was input; as well as The corrective optical system is set with the correction value at the time point when the call execution instruction is input.

8. The computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In the self-refraction assistance step, If auxiliary actions are initiated in the check item at the time point when the call execution instruction was entered, perform at least one of the following steps: The target display unit displays the target of the inspection item at the start of the inspection when the call execution instruction was input; as well as The corrective optical system is set to the corrective value at the start of the inspection for the inspection item at the time point when the call execution instruction is input.

9. A computer program product comprising a refraction control program, the refraction control program being executed by the first information processing device of a subjective refraction system having a subjective refraction device and a first information processing device, wherein, The subjective refraction device includes a corrective optical system that alters the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye. This subjective refraction device is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing device is connected to the subjective refraction device. The computer program product is characterized in that... This includes self-refractionation procedures that automatically advance the refraction process based on responses input by the subject. The first information processing device performs the following steps by executing the self-examination procedure through its control unit: The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items; The response acquisition step involves obtaining responses input by the subjects who have visually recognized the presented visual targets. as well as In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction. The self-refraction assistance step includes a receiving step, in which the input of the execution instruction for the assistance action is received. In the response acquisition step, if the execution instruction has been entered, the input of a response is restricted to be entered after the time point at which the execution instruction was entered.

10. A computer program product comprising an optometry control program executed by a first information processing device of a subjective optometry system having a subjective optometry device and a first information processing device, wherein, The subjective refraction device includes a corrective optical system that alters the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye. This subjective refraction device is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing device is connected to the subjective refraction device. The computer program product is characterized in that... This includes self-refractionation procedures that automatically advance the refraction process based on responses input by the subject. The first information processing device performs the following steps by executing the self-examination procedure through its control unit: The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items; The response acquisition step involves obtaining responses input by the subjects who have visually recognized the presented visual targets. as well as In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction. The self-refraction assistance step includes a receiving step, in which the input of the execution instruction for the assistance action is received. At least a portion of the operational input from the examiner's controller is restricted until the execution instruction is input; the examiner's controller is used by the examiner, acting as an assistant, to operate the subjective refraction device. Upon input of the execution instruction, the restriction on the operation input from the inspector using the controller is lifted.

11. A subjective refraction system, comprising a subjective refraction device and a first information processing device, wherein, The subjective refraction device includes a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of the target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye, for subjectively measuring the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing device is connected to the subjective refraction device. The subjective refraction system is characterized in that… The first information processing device is capable of executing a self-refractionation procedure that automatically advances the refraction process based on responses input by the subject. The self-examination procedure includes the following steps: The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items; The response acquisition step involves acquiring responses input by the subject who has visually recognized the presented visual targets; and In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction. The self-examination assistance step includes the following steps: The receiving step involves the subject receiving input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction to perform a call action by a call assistant. The call execution step performs a call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step; and The inspection timing setting step, based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step, sets the inspection timing for initiating the auxiliary action in a manner that allows the auxiliary action to begin in the inspection item at the time the call execution instruction was input. In the response retrieval step, if the call execution instruction has been entered, the input of the response is restricted to be entered after the time point at which the call execution instruction was entered.

12. The subjective optometry system according to claim 11, characterized in that, It includes a second information processing device, which is another information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network. The subjective optometry system performs the self-optometry assistance steps according to instructions input into the second information processing device.

13. A computer-readable storage medium storing an optometry control program included in a computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A refraction control method, executed by the first information processing device of a subjective refraction system comprising a subjective refraction device and a first information processing device, wherein, The subjective refraction device includes a corrective optical system that changes the optical characteristics of a target beam presented to the examined eye, and a target presentation unit that presents the target to the examined eye. This subjective refraction device is used to subjectively measure the optical characteristics of the examined eye. The first information processing device is connected to the subjective refraction device. The refraction control method is characterized by including the following steps: The self-refractionation process, at least based on the automatically advancing self-refractionation process, controls the corrective optical system and the target presentation unit to perform multiple examination items; The response acquisition step involves acquiring responses input by the subject who has visually recognized the presented visual targets; and In the self-refraction assistance step, if problems arise during the self-refraction process, auxiliary actions are performed to assist in advancing the self-refraction. The self-examination assistance step includes the following steps: The receiving step involves the subject receiving input of a call execution instruction, which is an instruction to perform a call action by a call assistant. The call execution step performs a call action based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step; and The inspection timing setting step, based on the call execution instruction received in the acceptance step, sets the inspection timing for initiating the auxiliary action in a manner that allows the auxiliary action to begin in the inspection item at the time the call execution instruction was input. In the response retrieval step, if the call execution instruction has been entered, the input of the response is restricted to be entered after the time point at which the call execution instruction was entered.

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