Automated Vision Testing System Using Liquid Crystal Shutters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vision testing methods rely heavily on paper charts and limited technology, leading to time-consuming, labor-intensive procedures prone to errors and vulnerable to test preparation, which compromises the integrity of the examination.
Innovation Solution
An automated vision testing system that presents stimuli to patients using display devices, optical components, and input systems, allowing for various vision tests at different distances and configurations, including the use of liquid crystal shutters and multiple projectors for high color resolution and stereo imaging, with automatic analysis and recording of results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated vision testing system is implemented, then testing accuracy and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vision testing system is divided into separate functional modules: stimulus presentation subsystem, eye movement detection subsystem, data processing subsystem, and control subsystem. Each module performs a specific function independently, which improves measurement precision while making the overall complex system more manageable and maintainable through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate components such as the chin rest and forehead rest as mediators between the patient and the testing apparatus. These intermediaries stabilize the patient's position and ensure consistent viewing distance, improving testing accuracy without requiring direct complex mechanical coupling between the patient and the measurement devices.
2Measurement precision
If multiple projectors and optical components are used for high color resolution and stereo imaging, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple projectors and optical components into an integrated stimulus presentation subsystem. By merging these components and coordinating their operation through centralized control, the system achieves high color resolution and stereo imaging capabilities while managing the inherent complexity through unified system architecture and synchronized operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical components and projectors are designed to serve multiple functions: presenting visual stimuli, creating stereo images, controlling color resolution, and enabling various vision test configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby improving measurement precision across multiple test types while managing overall device complexity.
3Productivity
If automated detection and analysis of eye motion is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vision testing system incorporates automated eye movement detection and analysis capabilities that operate independently without requiring manual intervention. The system self-calibrates, automatically tracks eye position, and processes visual data through integrated algorithms, thereby improving productivity while managing complexity through automation of previously manual tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors eye movement data and adjusts stimulus presentation accordingly. The automated detection system provides real-time feedback on patient responses, allowing the system to adaptively modify testing parameters, which improves testing efficiency and productivity while the centralized control manages the complexity of coordinating multiple sensors and actuators.
4Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive vision tests at different distances and configurations are enabled, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vision testing system employs dynamic optical elements and adjustable components that can be reconfigured for different viewing distances and test configurations. The system transitions between different operational states (near vision, far vision, intermediate vision, stereo testing, color vision) by dynamically adjusting optical paths and stimulus parameters, thereby achieving high adaptability while managing complexity through programmable control of dynamic components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables accurate, efficient, and comprehensive vision testing, reducing errors and providing detailed threshold estimates for improved patient assessment, while allowing for customizable and precise examination protocols.
Implementation Method 1
the shutters can be liquid crystal (LC) shutters
Data Source
AI summary
This application discloses systems and methods for automated vision testing. Performing automated vision testing can be beneficial in a number of eye care applications due to the reduction of chair time, increase of the measurement accuracy, elimination of human errors, capability for internal instrument calibration, and the possibility for test standardization.