AUTONOMOUS AND CUSTOMIZABLE EYELID MOVEMENT SYSTEM FOR THE TREATMENT OF EYELID DROOPING

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of biomedical engineering and medical devices, particularly wearable ophthalmic aid systems developed to restore eyelid movement in patients with neuromuscular and neurological disorders.

Description

1 TARIFF AUTONOMOUS AND EYELID DROOPING TREATMENT CUSTOMIZABLE EYELID MOVEMENT SYSTEM Subject of the Invention The invention has implications for the fields of biomedical engineering and medical devices. especially those with neuromuscular and nerve disorders to restore eyelid movement in patients 10 wearable ophthalmic aid systems developed It is related. State of the Art and Description of the Invention 1. Source of the need: Millions of people around the world and in our country; paralysis, neuromuscular diseases (such as myasthenia gravis), nerve 15 damage to the eyelid or ptosis that develops due to old age These patients are facing the problem of (low eyelid). Their field of vision is obstructed because they cannot control the covers. and they have great difficulty carrying out their daily lives independently. They are filming. 20 2. Inadequacy of current solutions: Current treatments are often These are surgical interventions. However, surgery is not suitable for every patient. It is not, or in some cases, it cannot offer a permanent solution. In addition, there are existing simple mechanical devices (wires attached to glasses) etc.) It is uncomfortable and cannot mimic the natural blinking motion. 25 3. The genesis of the invention: The invention stems from the fact that these patients are considered "incapacitated". to the helplessness that can be identified (as stated in the files) It originated from the idea of ​​creating a technological solution. By combining engineering expertise and clinical needs, the eye 30 personalized items that can be opened and closed naturally An adjustable and autonomously operating system has been designed. 4. Primary motivation: To enable patients to become independent of others. to enable them to see, to increase their participation in social life and Improving their quality of life is the most fundamental outcome of this invention. 2 That's the point. The first prototype, especially seen in patient videos. success in trials, commercialization and development of the product It has accelerated the process. Before this discovery, there were 5 treatments for eyelid drooping disease. and essentially in fulfilling the function of the eyelid The following methods were used: 1. SURGICAL INTERVENTIONS (SLING OPERATIONS): The most common method, surgically shortening the muscles that lift the eyelid or This involves suspending the eyelid from the forehead muscles. However, this method is only effective for every 10 years. It is not successful in the patient, carries a risk of infection, and some in some cases it can lead to complications such as the eye not being able to close completely. It opens. 2. MECHANICAL PTOSIS CRUTCHES: Eyeglasses mounted on the frames and mechanically closing the eyelid 15 Fixed wire brackets are used to hold it in place. This In these systems, the eyelids remain constantly open, leading to dry eyes and Irritation occurs, as does the natural act of blinking. It is not possible. 3. PASSIVE ASSISTANTS: 20 devices that pull the eyelid upwards. Tapes or adhesive mechanisms are used. This These methods are neither aesthetically pleasing nor do they cause skin irritation. Long-term use is quite difficult for this purpose. The difference brought about by the invention: in previous techniques, the eyelid or in a "fixed position" by surgery or a fixed mechanical barrier 25 while being held in place; this invention is active, autonomous and sensor-assisted Thanks to this system, the eyelid can be opened and closed as desired. and natural eye movements are mimicked. 1. LIMITED MOVEMENT AND UNNATURAL APPEARANCE: Traditional 30 In these methods, the eyelid is lifted either surgically or with mechanical slings. The eye is held in a fixed position. This situation affects the patient's eye. This prevents them from turning it off or on whenever they want. Natural The absence of the blinking reflex affects the patient's social life. 3 a fundamental thing that makes him feel "helpless" and uncomfortable It's a technical problem. 2. DRY EYE AND CORNEA DAMAGE: Existing mechanical solutions (ptosis) (like a crutch) because it keeps the eyelid constantly open The blinking function, which keeps the eyes moist, cannot occur. This situation, 5 the eye becomes vulnerable to external factors, serious eye problems dryness and, in the long term, permanent damage to the cornea This is the reason. 3. LACK OF PERSONALIZATION AND ADJUSTABILITY: Each patient The degree of eyelid drooping and muscle strength vary. Previous 10 Standard equipment used in the technique, user-specific angles and It does not allow for force adjustment. This means the device is either insufficient or not. or causing irritation by applying excessive pressure to the eyelid It causes it to open. 4. LACK OF CONTROL MECHANISM: Previous systems are passive; 15 that is, it responds according to environmental conditions or user needs. They cannot. It depends on the light level or the patient's fatigue level. will automatically adjust the position of the eyelid according to There is no electronic feedback mechanism. 5. SURGICAL RISKS AND PERMANENCE ISSUES: Surgical interventions can have recurring effects in 20 years. It is difficult to reverse, carries a risk of infection, and its effects can persist over time. These are methods that can result in loss. The patient's overall health condition. When the patient is not suitable for surgery, the current technique involves social and... an effective wearable solution to provide physical support not available. 25 The advantages this invention offers over the previous technique are as follows: 1. Active and natural mobility: Unlike fixed mechanical slings. On the contrary, thanks to the invention, the eyelid actively opens and It can close. This mimics the natural blinking reflex. 30 by helping the patient achieve a more natural look and social It enables them to adapt to life. 2. Protecting eye health: Periodically washing the eyelid with the device the ability to close it, preventing the eye from remaining constantly open 4 resulting risks of dryness, infection and corneal damage It eliminates the problem. The eye's natural moisture balance is preserved. 3. Customizable settings and mobile control: Mobile The angle, speed, and waiting time of eyelid opening can be controlled via the application. The duration is determined precisely according to each patient's needs: 5 It is adjustable. This provides maximum flexibility compared to standard devices. It offers user comfort. 4. A solution free from surgical risks: For those who cannot undergo surgery or For patients who are afraid of surgery, it poses no risk. a safe, non-invasive (non-surgical) alternative 10 presents. 5. Autonomous work and quality of life: The system allows the user to... It can operate autonomously without requiring any intervention. This by reducing the patient's dependence on others, thus improving their life It significantly improves their quality and self-confidence. 15 6. Aesthetic and ergonomic design: Unlike the bulky design of classic ptosis slings. And despite its aesthetically unappealing appearance, the "Liftlid" is an everyday accessory. It is in the form of glasses. With its lightweight and ergonomic design, it is suitable for all days. It provides comfortable use. The invention is designed to restore eyelid movement. It consists of electromechanical and digital components. Technical The components and their functions are as follows: 1. Microcontroller unit (3) (control box): The brain of the system It processes data from sensors and tells the motors when to start, 25 an electronic circuit that determines at what angle it will move It is a system. It also has wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi / Bluetooth). It manages the protocols. 2. Micro servo motors: Received from the control unit (3) 30 main components that convert electrical signals into mechanical motion They are activists. The delicate balance required to lift the eyelid. They provide torque and angular motion. 3. Eyelid holder apparatus (1) (mechanical arm): To the motor shaft attached and in direct contact with the upper eyelid (or It is a mechanical part (attached). It observes the rotational movement of the motor. It transmits the energy to the lid, causing it to move up / down. 4. Sterile eyelid retainer bands: The mechanical arm attaches to the patient's eye. to hold securely without damaging the lid Provides skin-friendly and sterile double-sided adhesive 5 They are devices. 5. Custom designed eyeglass frame (2): All electronic and mechanical integrated onto the components (motors, cables and holders) It is a lightweight and ergonomic carrier frame. The device It makes it look like a standard pair of glasses from the outside. 10 6. Power supply (battery system): The system is portable and electricity required for wireless operation rechargeable lithium-polymer battery that provides its energy It is a unit. 7. Mobile application and cloud software: Patient or doctor's device 15 You can remotely adjust the settings (opening angle, speed, dwell time). It is a digital control interface that enables this. Synchronizing data over the internet and It ensures that it is updated. The elements that constitute the structure of the invention are as follows: • Eyeglass frame (2): standard in vision aids It is the carrier element used. • Lithium-polymer batteries: for portable electronic devices a standard 25 used as an energy source in most of them It is a component. • Micro servo motors: precision in robotic and mechanical systems. These are actuators commonly used to provide motion. • Autonomous control unit (3) and software: Micro motors 30 that manages the movement according to the patient's needs (angle and timing) And it is a "smart" unit that was not present in the previous technology. • Eyelid retention mechanism: The motor's rotational movement is controlled by the eyelid. specially designed to ensure patient comfort, transmitting to the cover 6 It is a mechanical interface. This part performs the function of the system. It is essential for bringing it. • Mobile application integration: Device parameters (power-on) (speed, shutdown time, etc.) Wireless personalization It is a software control mechanism that provides 5 The non-essential elements of the invention in question are as follows: • Adjustable headband: Ensures the glasses stay more securely on the face. provides; however, if the eyeglass frame (2) fits the patient’s face perfectly The system can function even without this tape. • Cloud database: For remote monitoring of patient data. It is used. If removed, the device will temporarily stop working. It continues, but remote medical monitoring and data analysis are not possible. • Audio feedback unit: Provides information about the device's status. These are audible alerts that inform the user. Removing the device It does not affect the function of opening and closing the eyelid. 15 The method for resolving the technical issue and the technical characteristics of the invention are as follows: It is as follows: 1. Active and precise motion mechanism: The system that is the subject of the invention Included micro servo motors and specially designed mechanical arms, 20 By applying direct but gentle force to the upper eyelid, lifting and lowering functions that muscles cannot perform It is done electromechanically. 2. Autonomous and digital control loop: Microcontrollers in the system. unit (3), software-defined algorithms 25 This technique allows it to control the angular movement and speed of the motor. The feature is that the eyelid closes not suddenly, but according to the natural blinking rhythm. by ensuring proper movement, user comfort maximizes it. 3. Mobile application-based parameter setting: Digital 30 of the invention The interface, according to the degree of eyelid drooping of the patient, "minimum and determines the "maximum opening" thresholds. This allows the system to control each according to the anatomical needs that are different for the user 7 It produces a personalized solution and relieves mechanical stresses. It gets ahead. 4. Safe and hygienic gripping method: To the end of the mechanical arm integrated sterile and double-sided tape system, eyelid It provides a secure hold without damaging the skin. This method, 5 by preventing slippage that may occur during the movement of the device It maintains technical continuity. 5. Integrated design for stabilization: All technical components are specially designed. to be mounted on the designed eyeglass frame (2), The system's reaction forces during operation are shown on the frame as 10. by dampening the pressure, it minimizes the pressure on the patient's face and It ensures the stable operation of the system. The innovations in this invention and its differences from the previous technique are listed below. It has been explained: 15 1. The effect of active motorization on functional rehabilitation: The fixed mechanical wires used in the previous technique (ptosis crutch), It simply holds the eyelid up in a static position. The use of a micro servo motor in our invention transforms a passive grip into a more efficient one. It enables a transition to an active movement mechanism. This technical innovation, 20 not only keeping the eyelid open, but also when desired By also enabling its closure, it technically restores natural eye functions. It re-establishes it as such. 2. Autonomous blinking simulation and moisturizing effect: Software and thanks to the microcontroller unit (3), the device can be activated at certain intervals 25 They can open and close their eyes. This is what previous techniques led to. It is a technical solution to the dryness problem caused by "always open eyes". This solution mimics the eye's natural moisturizing mechanism. It creates a physiological protective effect that preserves corneal health. 3. Digital personalization and fine-tuning effect: Mechanical 30 Making adjustments to the systems requires physical intervention and Its sensitivity is low. Our invention is for mobile applications and cloud computing. integration, motor operating angle in degrees (0-180 It offers the possibility of adjustment (with a precision between degrees). This technical effect, 8 The device is perfectly matched to the patient's degree of eyelid drooping. and enables it to become an adaptive assistive device. 4. Non-invasive (non-surgical) treatment alternative: Surgery risks of the procedure (infection, bleeding, overcorrection) In contrast, this system offers externally attachable electromechanical 5 The solution creates a risk-free therapeutic effect on the patient. The device When removed, the patient can return to their previous state, meaning it is reversible. A technical solution is provided. 5. Signal processing and future biometric integration. Potential: The presence of the control unit (3) will be reviewed in the future 10 or biopotential signals (EMG / EOG) obtained from muscle tissue This allows the device to be integrated into the system. Techniques so that it can function as a neuro-controlled prosthesis in the future It creates an infrastructure. Problem Definition The invention aims to improve the condition of patients with drooping eyelids who have weakened or impaired vision. due to dysfunctional eyelid muscles (Levator muscle) their inability to open their eyes and consequently their field of vision It solves the problem of restriction. It's not just a physical barrier. 20 not only, but also the experiences patients have in their social lives also psychological problems such as aesthetic concerns and feelings of "helplessness" It offers a solution. Today, patients cope with this problem using two main methods. is working: • Surgical Intervention: Surgery to remove the eyelid muscles. abbreviation or suspension. • Passive Mechanical Straps (Ptosis Crutch): For standard eyeglasses mounted, the eyelid is continuously held in place by a fixed wire 30 Mechanical devices that hold things up. Eyelid drooping, if left untreated, can lead to vision loss and neck pain. to his pains (the patient constantly tilts his head back to be able to see) 9 (because of the risk of expulsion) and leads to social isolation. Therefore Patients have to choose between a risky surgical operation or aesthetic and comfort options. forced to use mechanical hangers which are inadequate in this respect It remains. The main technical bottlenecks created by current methods are as follows: • Dry Eye and Corneal Damage: This is the most critical problem. The current situation... The straps keep the eyes constantly open, thus inhibiting the natural blinking reflex. This is impossible. This prevents the eye from becoming moist, leading to severe dryness. and causes permanent damage (ulcers, etc.) to the cornea. 10 • Static Structure: The existing devices are fixed; the user's eye... when you want to close it (to sleep, rest or protect your eyes) (to) physically remove the device or remove the glasses It is necessary. • Aesthetic and Psychological Pressure: Wires on glasses 15 It is very obvious from the outside, which makes it difficult for patients to integrate into society. It makes them feel uncomfortable. • Lack of Personalization: Every patient has a different eye structure. However, current mechanical solutions allow for precise adjustment (opening) angle, speed, etc.) does not allow it. 20 The fundamental solution created by the invention is for those with drooping eyelids. natural eyes for patients without requiring surgical intervention restoring its functions (opening-closing-cropping), aesthetic and It offers an intelligent rehabilitation opportunity. Not just vision. It not only opens up the field, but also protects eye health and 25 It enables the patient to participate in social life with confidence. Benefits of the invention: • Performance: While traditional hangers only hold things open, this system... It provides movement. 30 • Ease of Use: Worn like standard glasses. It is removable and requires no complicated installation. • Cost: The cost of repeated surgical operations and Considering the risks, a long-term and sustainable approach. It offers an economical solution. The working and application method of the invention is described below. 5 The system is controlled by a spectacle frame (2) The unit (3) consists of three parts: micro motor and software. • Sensing and Control: Microcontroller unit (3) (MCU), in software defined parameters (opening angle, blinking frequency) 10 It processes the data and sends a signal to the motor driver. • Actuation: The micro servo motor, upon receiving the signal, performs a precise angular movement. It performs movement. This movement is carried out by thin, attached components connected to the motor shaft. It is transferred to a lightweight and biocompatible mechanical arm. • Motion Transfer: Sterile holder 15 at the end of the mechanical arm (medical tape) gently lifts the upper eyelid or He leaves. • Autonomous Loop: Software mimics the natural eye reflex It releases the motor at certain intervals (blinking) and then again. It restores it to its original position. 20 The user wears the device on their face like standard eyeglasses. The eye secures the sterile tape area on the cover and the goggles He switches on the power button on the handle (control unit (3)). Mobile via the app (via Bluetooth) according to your own comfort Adjusts the opening level. 25 Advantages provided by the invention: Additional requirements for implementing the system. No external technology (hospital equipment, etc.) is needed. For initial setup and personalized settings only. A Bluetooth-enabled smartphone is required. The device itself It gets its energy from the lithium-polymer battery on it. 30 The technical aspects of the invention are as follows: 11 • Electronic Layer: Microcontroller Unit (3) (MCU), Bluetooth Module, Motor Driver Circuit, Li-Po Battery, Charging Circuit (USB- Type C). • Mechanical Layer: High-torque micro servo motor, custom design. motion transmission arm (stainless steel or carbon fiber), motor 5 fixing bracket. • Body Structure: Made using 3D printing or injection molding. manufactured, technology compatible special eyeglass frame (2). • Consumables: Skin-friendly, hypoallergenic double-sided. Medical adhesive tapes. 10 The invention is passive in the market for devices that help with eyelid drooping. transition from support category to active rehabilitation category It is a pioneering technology that represents a leading example. The fundamental technical difference between this invention and existing products on the market. Its unique feature is its dynamic and autonomous movement capability. • Dynamic Adaptation: Fixed wires apply the same pressure to every patient. When creating it, the servo motor in our invention has micro-stepping (0.5 degrees). (sensitivity) technology takes into account the patient's eyelid weight and 20 It adjusts the torque according to the elasticity of the leather. • Software-Controlled Protection: Not just a hardware issue, but also the software within it. Thanks to its algorithm, it maintains the eye's natural moisture balance. It is an artificial reflex system that provides protection. The table below shows the traditional 25, which is the most common solution currently available for this invention. It includes a comparison with ptosis slings: To compare Criteria Traditional Ptosis hangers (Crutch) The present invention has a technical difference. Its effect Movement Ability 0% (Completely) Static) 100% (Active / Dynamic) eyelid natural function He wins. Blinking Frequency 0 per minute (Continually Open) 12-18 per minute (Adjustable) Corneal dryness risk 90% It reduces it by a certain percentage. 12 Fine Adjustment Range No (Manual) Bending / Estimation ni) 0° - 180° (Sensitive Digital) Adjustment) Millimetric personalization provides. User Comfort (Oppression) Continually Fixed Print Dynamic and Intermittent Printing Skin irritation and muscle fatigue It minimizes it. Control Method Manual / Mechanical Mobile Application (Bluetooth) Ease of use and modern interface presents. Aesthetic Visibility High (Metal wires evident) Low (Cosmetic) aspect hidden) Social self-confidence It provides the increase. 3. Performance and Security Comparison • Eye Health (Numerical Data): In the literature, eyes that remain open continuously "Exposure Keratopathy" in the eyes (side effect of current suspension devices) The risk is over 60%. Our invention, autonomous blinking 5 This feature causes the eye surface to become moist every 4-6 seconds, thus reducing this risk. It is reduced to post-surgical levels (5-10%). • Energy Efficiency: The microcontroller used in the device is low-powered. Operating in sleep mode, it provides 12-16 hours of service on a single charge. It offers (a full day) of use. This is a wearable medical device. 10 It is a performance above the standards. Alternative Application Areas: The invention possesses precise micro-motion and software control. Actuation capabilities can also be used in the following areas: 15 • Facial Paralysis Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation of the eyelid In addition, micro-stretching for the corners of the mouth or the eyebrow area. under the control of the devices that provide it. • Dry Eye Treatment: Even without ptosis, neurological For these reasons, in patients who cannot blink their eyes enough, only the eye 20 As a cropping trigger. • Wearable Precision Dosing: Micro-motor mechanism, skin micro-pumps attached to it contain very small amounts of liquid. It can be modified for (drug) repulsion. 13 Explanations of the Figures Figure 1: A view of the autonomous eyelid movement system. Figure 2: Another view of the autonomous eyelid movement system. Explanations of Reference Numbers in Figures 5 1. Holding device 2. Eyeglass frame 3. Control unit

Claims

14 REQUESTS 1. Treatment for patients experiencing eyelid drooping. It is a wearable autonomous eyelid movement system, Feature; 5 - a glasses frame (2), - at least one integrated into the said eyeglass frame (2) micro servo motor, - connected to the shaft of the micro servo motor and controls the rotational movement of the motor. a mechanical arm that transmits light to the upper eyelid, 10 - at least the mechanical arm that allows it to attach to the upper eyelid a holding device (1), - Controls the angular position and rotational speed of the micro servo motor. a micro-motor with an electrical connection to do so control unit (3), 15 - to supply power to the microcontroller unit (3) by including at least one configured power supply It is characteristic.

2. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic is; micro servo motor 20 a structured to be fixed to the eyeglass frame (2) It includes a motor mounting bracket.

3. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic feature is that the mechanical parts in question... arm made of stainless steel and / or carbon fiber material 25 It includes.

4. It is a system according to claim 1, and its feature is; the holding apparatus (1) sterile double-sided adhesive tape for contact with skin It includes. 30 5. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic is microcontroller. the control signal produced by the unit (3) to the micro servo motor a motor driver circuit configured to transmit It includes.

6. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic is microcontroller. 5 configured to transfer electrical energy to unit (3) It contains a charging circuit.

7. It is a system according to claim 6, and its characteristic is; the charging circuit. It includes a USB-C type connector.

8. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic is microcontroller. (3) is to manage the wireless connection protocols of the unit.

9. It is a system according to claim 8, and its feature is that it provides wireless connectivity. It is provided via Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi. 15 10. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic feature is that the eyelid... settings related to opening angle, speed and waiting time enabling it to be done with a microcontroller (3) It includes a mobile application that communicates wirelessly. 20 11. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic is; eyeglasses. support the fixation of the frame (2) on the user face an adjustable headband structured for It includes. 25 12. It is a system according to claim 1, and its characteristic is the state of the device. an audio feedback that informs the user about it It includes the unit.

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