Binocular Alignment Measurement Using Eye Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining binocular alignment are subjective and lack objective measurement, leading to high variability in prismatic corrections and ineffective compensation for accommodative misalignments, which contributes to digital eye discomfort and migraines.
Innovation Solution
An objective method using an eye tracker to measure disassociated phoria and accommodative convergence, with a stereo display presenting fusible and non-fusible images to determine optimal prismatic corrections by tracking eye adjustments, integrating central and peripheral image tests and dynamic responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If subjective methods are used to determine binocular alignment, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision and reliability are poor leading to high variability in prismatic corrections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective mechanical assessment methods with an automated eye tracking system that uses optical sensors and computational algorithms to objectively measure binocular alignment. The eye tracker captures eye position data and calculates disassociated phoria and accommodative convergence values, eliminating inter-examiner variability and improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational system that processes raw eye tracking data to derive binocular alignment parameters. This intermediary layer translates complex eye movement patterns into quantifiable metrics for disassociated phoria and accommodative convergence, enabling precise objective measurement without requiring complex direct observation equipment.
2Reliability
If traditional prismatic corrections are used, then the prescription process is straightforward, but the effectiveness in compensating for accommodative misalignments is insufficient leading to digital eye discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where eye tracking data is continuously monitored during the prescription process. The system measures the patient's actual eye alignment and accommodative responses, then uses this feedback to calculate personalized prismatic corrections that precisely compensate for individual binocular misalignments, improving correction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from fixed standard prismatic corrections to dynamic, parameter-based prescriptions. By measuring specific parameters like disassociated phoria and accommodative convergence through eye tracking, the system tailors prismatic corrections to individual patient parameters, significantly improving the reliability and effectiveness of the treatment.
3Measurement precision
If more time is spent on eye training at near-vision, then near-vision focus ability improves, but the muscles become strained leading to fatigue and digital eye discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by identifying and correcting binocular misalignments and accommodative abnormalities before they cause significant eye strain and fatigue. Through objective eye tracking measurement, the system detects subtle alignment issues and prescribes prismatic corrections that prevent the development of muscle strain during prolonged near-vision activities like digital device use.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include a method to determine a binocular alignment, the method comprising: measuring a disassociated phoria of a first eye and a second eye of a patient at an apparent distance; and determining an accommodative convergence of the first eye and the second eye at the apparent distance using the measured disassociated phoria. In other embodiments, a system to determine a binocular alignment comprises a stereo display, for a projection of images for a first eye and a second eye; an accommodation optics, to modify the projection of the images according to an apparent distance; an eye tracker, to track an orientation of the first eye and the second eye; and a computer, coupled to the stereo display, the accommodation optics and the eye tracker, to manage a determination of the binocular alignment.