Binocular Balance Testing with Opposing Prisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vision testing systems for binocular balance are complex and expensive due to the use of two LCDs and two polarization filters, leading to increased apparatus size and cost.
Innovation Solution
A subjective vision testing system that uses a simple configuration with a first prism in front of the right eye and a second prism in front of the left eye, both with vertically opposite base directions and equal prism power, to accurately perform a binocular balance test without the need for polarization filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two LCDs and two polarization filters are used for binocular balance test, then binocular balance testing can be performed, but device complexity and apparatus size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate LCDs and two polarization filters into a single LCD displaying multiple images and a single pair of polarization filters. This consolidation reduces device complexity while maintaining binocular balance testing capability through selective presentation of optotypes to each eye.
Solution Approach 2:
The single LCD is designed to display multiple types of images (optotypes, fusion stimuli, dissociation stimuli) that serve different testing functions. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate LCDs for different test types, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive testing capability.
2Reliability
If two LCDs and two polarization filters are used for binocular balance test, then binocular balance testing can be performed, but apparatus size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical components into fewer elements. A single LCD replaces two LCDs, and a single pair of polarization filters replaces two separate filters. This merging directly reduces the physical volume and spatial footprint of the apparatus while preserving binocular balance testing functionality.
3Device complexity
If prisms with vertically opposite base directions and equal power are used, then configuration is simplified, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry through prisms with vertically opposite base directions (one base-up, one base-down) while maintaining equal prism power. This asymmetric configuration creates differential image displacement for each eye, enabling accurate binocular balance measurement while keeping the overall system configuration simple and symmetric in terms of component selection.
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
Enables accurate binocular balance testing with a simplified setup, reducing costs and apparatus size while maintaining effective visual function assessment.
Implementation Method 1
a first prism in front of a right eye of the examinee and a second prism in front of a left eye of the examinee, the second prism having a base direction vertically opposite to that of the first prism and the same prism power as the first prism
Data Source
AI summary
A subjective vision testing system is used for visual function tests for examinees. The subjective vision testing system is provided with an optometric apparatus which selectively sets optical elements in front of both eyes of an examinee, an optotype presenting apparatus for displaying optotypes to the examinee, and a controller. The optotype presenting apparatus, based on a command signal for implementation of a binocular balance test, displays optotypes used for binocular balance tests. The optometric apparatus, based on a command signal for implementation of a binocular balance test, sets a first prism in front of the examinee's right eye and a second prism in front of the examinee's left eye. The second prism has a base direction vertically opposite to the first prism and the same prism power as the first prism.