Automated Low Contrast Visual Acuity Test System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clinical assessments of contrast sensitivity are limited by requiring a skilled administrator and are not suitable for self-administration, particularly in evaluating neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injury.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for an automated low contrast visual acuity test using a mobile computing device that allows self-administration through modules such as the low contrast letter acuity test and contrast sensitivity vision test, which can be performed without a technician, utilizing optotypes and sinusoidal gratings to measure contrast sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standard clinical assessments using pocket- or wall-based charts are used, then contrast sensitivity can be measured, but a skilled technician is required to administer the test
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling patients to administer the contrast sensitivity test themselves using a mobile device. The system presents visual stimuli through the device display and automatically captures responses via touchscreen input, eliminating the need for technician intervention while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/administrative system of technician-guided testing with an automated digital system. The mobile device software controls stimulus presentation, timing, and response capture, substituting human administrative functions with automated computational processes.
2Measurement precision
If standard clinical assessments are used, then contrast sensitivity can be evaluated, but the process requires technician involvement increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a mobile device that serves multiple functions: it displays visual stimuli, captures patient responses, processes test data, and stores results. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate specialized equipment and technician coordination into a single automated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service administration where the patient independently completes the entire testing process through the mobile device interface, significantly reducing the complexity associated with technician involvement while preserving measurement precision.
3Ease of operation
If automated mobile device testing is implemented, then self-administration is enabled, but comprehensive contrast sensitivity assessment must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by systematically varying multiple test parameters including contrast levels, spatial frequencies, and stimulus types within the software. This allows comprehensive assessment of contrast sensitivity across different conditions while maintaining self-administration through automated parameter control and adjustment based on patient responses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by implementing adaptive testing algorithms that continuously adjust stimulus parameters based on patient performance. This ensures comprehensive coverage of the contrast sensitivity function while maintaining patient engagement and enabling self-administration through real-time feedback and adaptation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Devices, systems and methods are described that can facilitate automated administration of a low contrast visual acuity test to a user. The low contrast visual acuity test can be administered using a display device and a computing device. The computing device can score results of the low contrast visual acuity test and determine a visual status of the user based on the score.