Camera-based optokinetic motor device for predicting visual acuity in rodents

Abstract

A camera-based optokinetic motor device (OMR) for assessing visual acuity in rodents, consisting of: a. a two-chamber structure consisting of: ◯ an outer rotating chamber with an inner surface of alternating black and white vertical stripes, designed to produce an optokinetic visual stimulus; ◯ an inner static chamber, which is transparent and centrally positioned within the outer chamber and configured to accommodate the test object, wherein the inner chamber contains a centrally arranged, non-rotating platform for placing the rodent; b. a motorized rotation mechanism, comprising: ◯ a stepper motor that is operationally coupled to the outer chamber to enable controlled rotation at a fixed and adjustable speed; ◯ a switch-controlled rotation direction system that enables bidirectional movement, allowing both clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW) rotation at a predefined speed of 10 revolutions per minute (rpm); c. a high-resolution imaging system, consisting of: ◯ a high-resolution (HD) camera positioned at an optimal height above the device to capture the rodent's movement response in real time; ◯ a motion tracking module, either software-based or hardware-integrated, to analyze and quantify the subject's spatial frequency threshold (SFT) in response to the moving stimulus; d. a closed test environment, consisting of: ◯ a non-transparent housing surrounding the dual-chamber structure, forming a closed box configuration approximately 45 cm long and wide and 30 cm high to minimize interference and distractions from external light; ◯ an internal white LED lighting system on the inner wall of the housing, which ensures uniform lighting conditions and thus guarantees the clarity of the recorded visual data; e. a data acquisition and processing module configured to: ◯ Record the video data received from the HD camera; ◯ Processing and analyzing rodent movement patterns using the rotating stimulus to determine the optokinetic reflex (OKR) and visual acuity response; ◯ Save and export the collected data for later statistical analysis.

Description

Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to a camera-based optokinetic motor (OMR) apparatus designed to assess visual acuity function in rodents. The device is particularly useful in evaluating optokinetic reflex reactions (OKR) indicative of retinal health and visual integrity. The system is applicable in the study of diabetic retinopathy and other retinal toxin-associated visual disorders and provides a reliable tool for visual research and neurophysiological assessments.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONThe optokinetic motor response (OMR) is a well-established method for assessing visual acuity and optokinetic reflex function in animal models, particularly rodents. Visual behavioral studies require precise instruments that can effectively evaluate spatial frequency thresholds (SFT) while still providing reproducibility and accuracy. The present invention addresses this need by providing an improved OMR device that is integrated with high resolution camera technology and allows accurate recording and analysis of rodent movement responses. This apparatus enables noninvasive, reliable and repeatable assessments of visual acuity, thus making a substantial contribution to visual science and neurological research.The assessment of the visual acuity and the optokinetic reflex (OKR) in rodents is decisive for the investigation of the visual function, neurophysiological processes and the course of the disease in diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and degenerative retinal diseases. Optokinetic motor response (OMR) is often used as a non-invasive technique for evaluating spatial frequency thresholds (SFT) in animal models. The optokinetic response is a substantial visual tracking behavior that allows organisms to stabilize their field of view by moving their eyes or body in response to movement stimuli. This technique has been found to be particularly useful in neuro science and ophthalmic research, where it serves as a valuable method for assessing retinal function, visual perception and processing capabilities.Traditionally, the assessment of visual acuity in rodents has relied on behavioral tests such as the visual cliff test, Morris water maze and electrophysiological techniques such as electroretinography (ERG) and visually evoked potentials (VEP). The visual cliff test evaluating depth perception is not suitable for evaluating subtil variations of spatial frequency thresholds and is limited in its ability to quantify specific visual obstructions. Also, Morris water maze evaluates cognitive and spatial memory rather than direct vision function, making it unsuitable for precise analysis of retinal function. Electrophysiological methods such as ERG and VEP provide objective measurements of the responses of the retina and cortex to light stimuli, but require the implantation of electrodes or the placement of surface electrodes, making them invasive and stressful to test persons. Moreover, these methods do not always correlate directly with behavioral acuity, as recordings of neuronal activity may not fully reflect the perception of visual stimuli by the subject.The OMR test, on the other hand, offers a non-invasive and behavior-relevant approach for assessing the visual acuity. Existing OMR systems use a rotating drum or virtual optokinetic stimulation system to induce reflex-like tracking movements in rodents. The earliest OMR systems consisted of simple rotating drums with printed black and white stripes to generate motion stimuli. In these setups, an experimenter visually observed and manually recorded the rodent movement responses, leading to subjectivity and inconsistency in data acquisition. Manual observation also restricted the ability to perform high throughput screening of vision function because it was time consuming and susceptible to human failure.To overcome these limitations, automated OMR systems have been developed that include digital displays and infrared cameras to track eye movements and body rotations in response to visual stimuli. One such system is the virtual optomotor system which uses computer generated sine wave grids displayed on four surrounding monitors to create an immersive visual environment. The rodent is placed on a platform in the middle of the monitors and the stimulus is presented in a manner that mimics the movement of a physical drum. This system allows precise control over stimulus parameters such as spatial frequency, contrast and rotational speed, thus allowing detailed analysis of visual acuity. However, despite its advantages, the virtual optomotor system has several disadvantages.A significant limitation of the virtual optomotor system is its dependence on head tracking software for measuring the reactions of the rodent. Although this software automates the evaluation process, it is strongly dependent on the position and consistency of movement of the test subject. If the rodent does not inherently perform reflex-like tracking movements, the software may not register a response, resulting in inaccurate or incomplete data. Moreover, the system requires controlled lighting conditions to avoid glare effects on the screen and to ensure consistent irritation, which may be difficult to achieve in standard laboratory environments. Another disadvantage is the high cost and technical complexity of virtual OMR systems, which require special hardware and software integration. This makes them less attractive for smaller research facilities or laboratories with limited budget.Other modified OMR devices use video recordings to acquire movement data so that researchers can analyze the post-experiment responses. These systems normally comprise a transparent chamber in which the rodent is placed, surrounded by a rotating drum with vertical black and white stripes. A video camera records the behavior of the rodent and using motion tracking software, the direction and speed of the subject's movements are analyzed. This approach, while eliminating observer distortion and increasing the reliability of the results, has some limitations. One problem is that video analysis is time consuming, as researchers must check the records manually or rely on motion tracking algorithms that may not always be able to accurately distinguish between spontaneous motions and stimulus driven responses.Another challenge with existing OMR devices is their inability to assess vision function in rodents with motor disorders or diseases that affect arbitrary motion. In stroke models, for example, rodents may have one-sided deficits that limit their ability to exhibit normal optokinetic responses. Similarly, animals with muscular dystrophy, epilepsy or other neurological diseases cannot show reliable movement-based responses, leading to difficulties in interpreting OMR data. This limitation reduces the applicability of current OMR systems in broader neurological research fields where motor dysfunction is a variable factor.The present invention seeks to overcome these disadvantages by providing a camera-based optokinetic motor apparatus which provides precise, reproducible and automated assessment of the visual acuity function in rodents. By incorporating a high resolution camera with automated video recording and analysis functions, this device obviates the need for manual observation and reduces human variability in data acquisition. The design includes a stepper motor controlled rotating chamber with black and white stripe patterns that provides consistent and controlled presentation of visual stimuli. In contrast to virtual optomotor systems which rely on head tracking software, this device records the entire movement behavior of the test subject and thus enables a more comprehensive assessment of the spatial frequency thresholds.In addition, the system is designed for rodents with different motor functions and is therefore suitable for studies on neurodegenerative and muscle diseases. The transparent interior chamber allows clear observation of the test object and simultaneously minimizes environmental deflections that could affect performance. Moreover, the noninvasive nature of the system provides that the rodents are only subject to minimal stress during the test, which improves the reliability and repeatability of the acquired data.Another advantage of the present invention is its cost efficiency as compared to high-end virtual optomotor systems. By using a straightforward mechanical design with a stepper motor driven rotating chamber and a HD camera for motion tracking, this apparatus provides a practical alternative that can be implemented in a variety of research laboratories without requiring expensive digital display devices or complex software integration.Although existing OMR systems have made a major contribution to visual neuroscience research overall, they have limitations such as observer compliance, dependence on arbitrary head movements, susceptibility to environmental conditions, and limited utility in impaired animal models. The present invention addresses these problems by combining automated video recording with a structured optokinetic stimulus environment, thus ensuring accurate and reproducible assessment of vision function. This progress increases the reliability of OMR assays and extends their applicability in vision science, eye healing and neurophysiological research.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe invention comprises an optokinetic motor device with a two-chamber system, which is intended to evaluate the visual responses of rodents to visual stimuli by utilizing their reflex movements. The apparatus has a rotating outer chamber and a static inner chamber in which the test person is placed. A high resolution camera is positioned at an optimal height to acquire motion data for further analysis. The outer chamber rotates at a constant speed and provides a controlled visual stimulus in the form of alternate black and white stripes. The recorded responses of the test subject are analyzed to determine spatial frequency thresholds and evaluate the general visual acuity function.The principal object of the present invention is to provide a camera-based optokinetic motor (OMR) apparatus for accurately and reproducibly assessing visual acuity function in rodents. The invention aims to facilitate the measurement of optokinetic reflex (OKR) responses by eliminating observer distortion and ensuring consistent irritation presentation through an automated motor driven rotation chamber. By incorporating a high resolution camera for video recording, the apparatus enables precise tracking and analysis of rodent movements, thus improving the reliability of visual acuity assessments.Another object of the invention is to develop a standardized and noninvasive method for evaluating spatial frequency thresholds (SFT) in rodent models used in vision research. In contrast to conventional electrophysiological methods which require invasive electrode placement, this system uses the natural reflective tracking behavior of rodents and thus offers a stress-free and behavior-relevant approach for examining the retinal function. The invention also aims to overcome the limitations of existing manual OMR systems by introducing an automated mechanism that minimizes human-caused variability in data acquisition and analysis.The invention is also intended to provide a cost effective and accessible alternative to virtual optokinetic test systems based on high-end digital displays and sophisticated head tracking software. By using a mechanically rotating drum with black and white stripes coupled to a HD camera for motion tracking, this apparatus simplifies the evaluation process while maintaining accuracy and repeatability. This ensures that smaller research laboratories or institutions with limited resources can take over the technology without requiring expensive digital infrastructure.Another object of the invention is to extend the applicability of OMR assays to a broader range of research areas, including neurophysiology, eye healing and disease modelling. The apparatus is designed for assessing vision function in both normal and impaired rodents, making it particularly useful for examining vision-related deficits in diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal toxicity, neurodegenerative diseases and innate vision disorders. Moreover, the invention supports research on rodents with motor impairment, such as those affected by stroke, epilepsy or muscle diseases, and ensures that visual assessments can also be made on models with limited movement capabilities.Another important object of the invention is to improve the efficiency of data acquisition and analysis in vision function studies. The integration of automatic video recording eliminates the need for manual observations in real time, so that researchers can record and analyze the behavior of rodents over extended periods of time after the experiment. The recorded film material can be used to more accurately determine spatial frequency thresholds and to apply statistical methods that improve the reliability of the results. The ability to display and analyze movements image by image ensures that even subtilous visual obstructions can be detected and quantified.The invention also aims to provide an adaptable system which can be modified for various experimental setups and types. While the focus is on rodents, the device can be adapted to pick up other small animals used in visual research as well. The modular design of the rotating chamber and video recording system allows adaptation to the specific requirements of various research studies, including variations in spatial frequency patterns, rotational speeds, and illumination settings.In addition, the invention is intended to support longitudinal section studies for developing visual acuity and the course of the disease. By providing a reliable and repeatable test method, researchers can track changes in vision function over time and judge how disease states or therapeutic interventions affect retinal and nerve processing. This makes the device particularly valuable for preclinical drug testing, gene therapy research and retinal regeneration studies.In summary, it can be said that the invention aims to improve the accuracy, reproducibility and accessibility of optokinetic engine response tests for assessing visual acuity. By overcoming the limitations of existing solutions, it provides a robust, automated and low cost system that can be widely used in vision science and neurophysiological research. The invention ensures that researchers can obtain reliable data and at the same time minimize test subjects' stress, making them a major instrument for the advancement of understanding visual processing and retinal function.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURESThese and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become more fully understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals represent like parts throughout. The following applies here: FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a camera-based optokinetic motor device for predicting the visual acuity function.Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements are shown in the drawing for simplicity and need not necessarily be drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the method using the major steps to improve understanding of aspects of the present disclosure. Moreover, with respect to the construction of the apparatus, one or more components of the apparatus may have been represented in the drawing by conventional symbols, and the drawing may only show the specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the drawing with details readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONIn order to aid in the understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and described in specific language. It is to be understood, however, that no limitation of the scope of the invention is intended, since such changes and further modifications to the illustrated system and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein are contemplated, as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be limiting thereof.References throughout this specification to "one aspect," "another aspect," or similar language mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment," "in another embodiment," and similar language in this specification may or may not all refer to the same embodiment.The terms "comprises," "comprising," or other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method comprising a list of steps not only comprises those steps, but may also comprise other steps not expressly listed or inherent in such a process or method. Likewise, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises...a" do not exclude, without further limitations, the existence of other devices or other subsystems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional subsystems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and are not to be considered limiting.Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.Referring now to Fig. 1, a block diagram of a diagram illustrating a camera-based optokinetic motor apparatus for predicting visual acuity function. The system 100 comprises: a dual chamber structure (102) consisting of: an outer rotating chamber (102a) having an inner surface of alternating black and white vertical stripes to provide an optokinetic visual stimulus; an inner static chamber (102b) positioned transparently and centrally within the outer chamber and configured to receive the test object, the inner chamber including a centrally located non-rotating platform for placement of the rodent; a motorized rotating mechanism (104) comprising: a stepper motor (104a) operatively connected to the outer chamber to enable controlled rotation at a fixed and adjustable speed; a switch controlled rotational directional system (104b) to enable bidirectional motion that permits both clockwise (CW) and counter-clockwise (CCW) rotation at a predefined speed of 10 revolutions per minute (U / min); a high resolution imaging system (106) comprising: a high resolution (HD) camera (106a) positioned at an optimal height above the device to capture the motion response of the rodent in real time; a motion tracking module (106b), either software based or hardware integrated, for analyzing and quantifying the subject's spatial frequency threshold (SFT) in response to the moved stimulus; a closed test environment (108) comprising: a non-transparent housing (108a) surrounding the dual chamber structure having a closed box configuration of about 45 cm length and width and 30 cm height configured to minimize external light disturbances and deflections; an internal white LED lighting system on the interior wall of the housing to provide uniform light conditions and ensure clarity of the recorded visual data; a data acquisition and processing module (110) configured to: record the video data obtained from the HD camera; process and analyze the motion patterns of rodents based on the rotating stimulus to determine the optokinetic reflex (OKR) and the visual acuity response; store and export the acquired data for subsequent statistical analysis.In one embodiment, the outer rotating chamber (102a) is made of a low reflectivity material to prevent optical distortions that could interfere with the perception of the alternating black and white stripes by the test subject.In one embodiment, the black-and-white stripe pattern on the inner surface of the outer chamber is interchangeable or customizable, thereby allowing the change in spatial frequency parameters to assess different degrees of visual acuity in rodents.In one embodiment, the stepper motor (104a) is electronically controlled and configured to maintain a precise and stable rotational speed with minimal variations, thereby ensuring a uniform visual stimulus during the test period.In one embodiment, the switch controlled rotation mechanism (104b) allows predefined speed variations in the range of 5 U / min to 20 U / min, thereby allowing matched test conditions for different experimental requirements.In one embodiment, the inner transparent chamber (102b) is made of an optically clear, non-reflective material that provides unobstructed visual access to both the test subject and the HD camera and prevents distortion from light reflection or refraction.In one embodiment, the central platform within the interior chamber has a non-slip, structured surface that is intended to stabilize the rodent and prevent unintentional movements caused by external influences rather than by movement controlled by optokinetic reflexes.In one embodiment, the HD camera (106a) has a resolution of at least 1080p (1920×1080 pixels) and a minimum frame rate of 30 images per second (fps), thereby ensuring high quality video capture suitable for accurate motion tracking and analysis.In one embodiment, the motion tracking module (106b) includes an artificial intelligence (AI)-based video processing system configured to automatically detect and quantify the direction and speed of motion of the rodents in response to the rotating chamber.In one embodiment, the non-transparent housing (108a) is made of light absorbing material to avoid undesirable reflections and glare effects that could alter the visual perception of the rotating pattern by the test subject.The present invention relates to a camera-based optokinetic motor (OMR) device that provides a highly accurate, reproducible and automated system for assessing visual acuity function in rodents through optokinetic reflex (OKR) responses. The apparatus integrates a motorized rotating chamber, a high resolution camera for real-time motion tracking, an AI-based motion analysis module, and a data acquisition and processing system. The aim is to improve the accuracy of spatial frequency threshold (SFT) measurements, to reduce human-caused variability and to facilitate longitudinal section studies in vision research, neurophysiology and disease modelling.The physical structure of the apparatus consists of a two chamber design with an outer rotating drum and an inner static transparent chamber in which the rodent resides. The outer chamber, the inner surface of which consists of alternating black and white vertical stripes, produces a well-defined optokinetic visual stimulus. The chamber is driven by a stepper motor which provides precise speed and direction control and allows clockwise (CW) and counter-clockwise (CCW) rotation at a standard speed of 10 revolutions per minute (U / min) which can be adjusted according to experimental requirements. The inner chamber remains stationary and transparent, ensuring that the rodent movement response is influenced solely by the visual stimulus and not by external mechanical forces.The frog of the invention is an AI-based motion tracking algorithm embedded in the camera system. The high resolution (HD) camera, mounted 30 cm above the test chamber, continuously captures real-time videos of the movements of the rodent. The camera has a resolution of 1080p at a frame rate of 30 frames per second (fps), which ensures high quality video recording. The recorded film material is analyzed using a deep learning based motion detection algorithm that quantitates head tracking, body orientation, and reflexive motion patterns in response to the rotating stimulus.The motion analysis algorithm operates over a multi-stage processing pipeline. First, the raw video feed is pre-processed, where background noise, illumination variations, and non-essential objects are filtered out using Gaussian smoothing and edge detection techniques. The position of the rodent is then recognized using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that have been trained using rodent motion patterns identified using a dataset. This ensures a robust and accurate segmentation of the object from the background.Once the person is identified, the system tracks their head and body movements by optical flow analysis and trajectory mapping. The algorithm uses the Lucas-Kanade estimation of the optical flow in combination with Kalman filtering and thus enables a precise calculation of the motion vector even when the person is performing small, fast movements. This ensures that spontaneous movements such as personal care or sniffing are distinguished from irritation-induced tracking behavior, thereby reducing false positive detections to quantify the spatial frequency thresholds (SFTs), the algorithm calculates the directional consistency of rodent movement relative to outer chamber rotation. A statistical threshold function is used to distinguish active tracking movements from random travel by correlating motion vectors to the rotational trajectory of the stimulus. If the rodent maintains a circular pattern of travel in accordance with the rotation of the stimulus, the spatial frequency is considered to be within the recognizable threshold for that subject. If the motion patterns are inconsistent, the threshold is adjusted by changing the stripe density in subsequent trials.The data acquisition and analysis system processes the recorded motion data in real time and generates a quantitative output of spatial frequency response values. The system automatically compiles the data into tabular and graphical formats and displays visual acuity readings in real time. Researchers can export the processed data to statistical analysis software such as MATLAB, Python or Microsoft Excel for further investigation. The system also includes machine learning-based predictive modeling that enables a longitudinal assessment of the degradation or improvement of vision function over time.The invention is also designed for multi-condition testing and supports variations in spatial frequency stimuli, rotational speeds, and ambient light conditions. The black and white fringe pattern of the outer chamber is interchangeable so that researchers can test different fringe densities corresponding to different spatial frequencies. The LED lighting system is adjustable between 5000K and 6000K and simulates natural daylight conditions to maintain consistent test conditions throughout several trials.A major advantage of this system is its versatility in various experimental models, including studies on rodents with motor impairment. Unlike conventional OMR setups, which rely on arbitrary head movements, the KI-based tracking system of this device partially compensates for motion impairment, thus allowing visual acuity assessment in models for stroke, muscle dystrophy, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases. The motion tracking module can distinguish between intentional optokinetic tracking motions and spontaneous motor anomalies and thus ensures accurate data acquisition even in test persons with limited mobility.To enable scalability and high-throughput screening, the system supports wireless connectivity so that researchers can remotely monitor and control the device via a connected computer or mobile device. The experimental parameters, including rotational speed, test duration and irritable contrast, can be preprogrammed and automated, thereby reducing the need for manual interventions. The system also includes a real-time feedback loop in which detected motion responses can dynamically adjust the stimulus presentation to optimize data acquisition efficiency.The recorded video data is encoded in high efficiency video formats such as H.264 or H.265 to minimize memory requirements while maintaining high resolution for analysis. Moreover, the motion tracking data is stored in a structured database, which allows metaanalysis of large data sets from various research studies.Safety and operational reliability are other important features of the device. The motorized rotation mechanism is equipped with an emergency stop function that allows immediate shutdown upon detection of abnormal behavior or hardware failures. The entire system is modular, so that a simple adaptation to different rodent types and experimental setups is ensured.The combination of a mechanically controlled optokinetic stimulus, AI-based motion tracking, and automated data processing provides that this invention significantly improves the accuracy, reproducibility, and scalability of eye acuity scores in rodents. By eliminating the limitations of conventional OMR setups such as observer compliance, head tracking software dependence, and susceptibility to environmental variations, this invention provides a robust, highly accurate solution for the advancement of research in the fields of eye healing, vision science, and neurophysiology.The optokinetic motor device consists of two concentric circular chambers. The outer chamber having a diameter of 28 centimeters encloses an inner chamber having a diameter of 18 centimeters. This configuration ensures that the test subject remains in a fixed position while exposed to the moving external chamber visual stimulus. The whole system is accommodated in a non-transparent square box with a length and width of 45 centimeters and a height of 30 centimeters, ensuring a controlled dark environment that optimizes the test conditions. A white LED light band is attached to the inner walls of the square box to provide sufficient illumination in video recording.The inner wall of the outer rotating chamber is provided with a plurality of vertical black and white stripes serving as visual stimuli. The chamber is connected to a stepping motor which enables controlled rotation at a speed of 10 revolutions per minute. The motor supports both clockwise (CW) and counter-clockwise (CCW) rotation, which can be adjusted via a switch control system. The stepper motor provides a constant rotational speed and provides a stable and repeatable visual stimulus for accurate optokinetic studies.At the center of the apparatus is a smaller, non-rotating transparent chamber in which the test object is located. This chamber has a platform with a diameter of 8 centimeters, which has been specially developed for rodents such as mice or rats. The transparent material allows unobstructed view of the moving exterior chamber and ensures that the test object effectively receives the visual stimulus.To allow accurate assessment and data recording, a high resolution camera (model TT-LV2M6, 2 MP, 3.6 mm lens) is installed at a height of about 30 centimeters above the interior chamber. This camera captures high resolution video photographs of rodent movements which are later analyzed to determine the visual acuity function. The recorded data provides information about spatial frequency thresholds that are of vital importance for evaluating optokinetic reflex responses and visual processing capabilities.In the judgment, the test object (rodent) is set on the central platform in the static inner chamber. The outer chamber is then adjusted to rotate at a fixed speed, rotating clockwise for two minutes and then counter-clockwise for two minutes. The response of the rodent to these movements is observed and recorded by the high resolution camera. The spatial frequency threshold (SFT) is determined from the movement of the rodent in response to the rotating black and white stripes. This threshold reflects the number of fringe pairs imaged within a particular retinal distance and represents a quantitative measure of visual acuity.The test is repeated six times to ensure reproducibility and reliability of the recorded responses. The collected video material is analyzed and the data tabulated using software such as Excel. The mean and standard error of the mean values (SEM) are calculated and suitable statistical methods are applied based on the trial design and the group classifications.The present invention provides a reliable and noninvasive method for assessing retinal visual acuity and optokinetic reflex function in rodents. The optokinetic reflex which tracks eye movements in moving objects plays a decisive role in studies on visual function. The instrument helps evaluate smooth follow-up movements of the eyes, followed by rapid saccades which are essential for visual tracking and processing.Moreover, the device assists in the early evaluation of eye development and function under normal and pathological conditions. It is particularly useful for the investigation of visual disorders caused by diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, the OMR device can be used to evaluate retinal trajectory functions, making it a valuable tool in neuro science and vision research.Because of its reliability, the device is frequently used in visual behavior studies, including studies with immobilized rodents with diseases such as stroke, epilepsy and muscle diseases. The system allows comprehensive evaluations of visual integrity, efficiency and processing, thus contributing to a deeper understanding of the visual acuity functions in various experimental models.The camera-based optokinetic motor apparatus provides a robust and precise system for assessing visual acuity functions in rodents. By integrating a high resolution camera with a controlled rotating stimulus, the device enables an accurate assessment of the optokinetic reflex reactions. Its design ensures reproducibility, user-friendliness and applicability in various research environments and makes it an indispensable instrument for examining visual disorders and retinal function. The invention addresses the need for a standardized and efficient method for examining visual acuity and offers potential applications in biomedical research, eye healing and neurophysiology.The present invention falls within the field of eye healing, neuro science and biomedical instruments and relates specifically to devices and systems for assessing visual acuity and optokinetic reflex (OKR) responses in animal models. The invention relates to the development, automation and application of optokinetic motor response (OMR) assays using mechanised rotational stimuli, high resolution imaging, AI-based motion tracking, and automated data acquisition systems. It is particularly relevant for preclinical research in assessing retinal function, spatial frequency perception, and neurophysiological responses to visual stimuli in rodents. The device is applicable in ophthalmic studies including those which focus on diabetic retinopathy, retinal toxicity, innate visual disorders and neurodegenerative disorders. Moreover, it supports neurological research and facilitates study of visual-motor integration, eye tracking behavior and central nervous system diseases. The invention also extends to the development of high throughput screening methods for pharmacological interventions, in particular in the evaluation of therapeutics for the treatment of retinal degeneration, diseases of the optic nerve and disorders of cortical vision. Moreover, technology is of importance in robotic vision research, motion perception analysis, and cognitive neuro science, where automated motion tracking and reflex analysis are required for behavioral studies.The drawings and the foregoing description provide examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be divided into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of the processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow chart need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be performed. Also, those actions that are not dependent on other actions may be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether or not explicitly stated in the specification, such as differences in structure, dimension, and material usage, are possible. The scope of the embodiments is at least as broad as recited in the following claims.Advantages, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with respect to certain embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, solutions to problems, and any components that may result in an advantage, solution occurring or becoming clearer are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all claims.REFERENCES100 A camera-based optokinetic motor device for predicting the visual acuity function. 102 dual chamber structure 102 a Äußere rotating chamber 104 motorized rotating mechanism 104 a Schrittmotor motor 104 bSwitch controlled rotating direction system 106 High resolution imaging system 106 a Hochauflösende (Hd) camera 106 b Motion tracking module 108 Closed test environment 108 a Undurchsichtig housing 110 Data acquisition and processing module

Claims

A camera-based optokinetic motor (OMR) apparatus for assessing visual acuity function in rodents, comprising: a. a two-chamber structure comprising: ◯ an outer rotating chamber having an inner surface of alternating black and white vertical stripes to produce an optokinetic visual stimulus; ◯ an inner static chamber positioned transparently and centrally within the outer chamber and configured to accommodate the test object, the inner chamber including a centrally located non-rotatable platform for placement of the rodent; b. a motorized rotating mechanism comprising: ◯ a stepper motor operatively coupled to the outer chamber to enable controlled rotation at a fixed and adjustable speed; ◯ a switch controlled rotational direction system that allows bidirectional motion that allows both clockwise (CW) and counter-clockwise (CCW) rotation at a predefined speed of 10 revolutions per minute (U / min); c. a high resolution imaging system consisting of: ◯ a high resolution (HD) camera positioned at an optimal height above the device to capture the motion response of the rodent in real time; ◯ a motion tracking module, either software based or hardware integrated, to analyze and quantify the subject's spatial frequency threshold (SFT) in response to the moved stimulus; A closed test environment comprising: ◯ a non-transparent housing surrounding the dual chamber structure and having a closed box configuration with a length and width of about 45 cm and a height of 30 cm to minimize interference and deflections from external light; ◯ an internal white LED lighting system on the inner wall of the housing that provides uniform lighting conditions and thus ensures clarity of the recorded visual data; e. a data acquisition and processing module configured to: ◯ record the video data obtained from the HD camera; ◯ process and analyze patterns of motion of rodents based on the rotating stimulus to determine the optokinetic reflex (OKR) and the visual acuity response; d; Store and export the acquired data for later statistical analysis.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outer rotating chamber is made of a low reflectivity material to prevent optical distortions that could interfere with the perception of the alternating black and white stripes by the test subject.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the black-and-white stripe pattern on the inner surface of the outer chamber is replaceable or adjustable, thereby allowing the change of spatial frequency parameters for assessing different degrees of visual acuity in rodents.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the stepper motor is electronically controlled and configured to maintain a precise and stable rotational speed with minimal variations, thereby providing a uniform visual stimulus during the test period.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the switch controlled rotation mechanism allows predefined speed variations in the range of 5 U / min to 20 U / min, thereby allowing individual test conditions for different experimental requirements.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inner transparent chamber is made of an optically clear, non-reflective material that provides unobstructed visual access to both the test subject and the HD camera and prevents distortion from light reflection or refraction.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the central platform within the interior chamber has a non-slip textured surface that serves to stabilize the rodent and prevent inadvertent movements caused by external influences rather than optokinetic reflexes.

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