Circular Contrast Zones for Astigmatism-Independent Sensitivity Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Contrast sensitivity testing is challenging for individuals with astigmatism, as existing methods often align contrast patterns with visual defects, compromising perception, and current techniques primarily determine if a subject can perceive contrast rather than measuring sensitivity accurately.
Innovation Solution
The use of circular contrast zones with varying spatial frequencies and patterns, such as sinusoidal or square wave patterns, that extend 360°, allowing subjects to select the zone with the highest or lowest contrast, enabling accurate measurement of contrast sensitivity through input devices like touch screens or joysticks, independent of astigmatism alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional contrast sensitivity testing methods are used, then the testing process is simple, but the measurement accuracy is compromised for subjects with astigmatism because contrast patterns align with visual defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs circular contrast zones instead of traditional linear or grating patterns. The circular geometry ensures that contrast patterns are radially symmetric and do not align with the meridional orientation of astigmatism-related visual defects, thereby providing accurate contrast sensitivity measurements for subjects with astigmatism while maintaining a relatively simple testing methodology.
2Measurement precision
If contrast patterns are aligned with astigmatism defects, then the testing method is straightforward, but the subject's perception is compromised and measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the testing approach by using circular zones with varying contrast levels rather than uniform patterns. Each circular zone presents a different contrast level, and the subject must identify the zone with the highest or lowest contrast. This asymmetric contrast distribution within circular geometry allows accurate measurement of contrast sensitivity while avoiding alignment issues with astigmatism defects.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single contrast level is tested, then the testing procedure is simple, but the ability to measure contrast sensitivity across different levels is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the contrast sensitivity testing into multiple discrete circular zones, each presenting a different contrast level. By segmenting the test into distinct zones with varying contrast characteristics, the system can comprehensively assess contrast sensitivity across a wide range of levels. The subject identifies the zone with extreme contrast values, allowing the system to measure sensitivity thresholds while maintaining manageable test complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The contrast sensitivity of an individual may be tested and/or trained using a plurality of circular contrast zones. The individual may select the circular contrast zone having a different degree of contrast than the other circular contrast zones. For example, the individual may select the circular contrast zone having the highest or lowest contrast of a displayed plurality of circular contrast zones. A plurality of circular contrast zones may be displayed with a spatial arrangement that facilitates inputting a selection of one of the plurality by the individual. A variety of input devices may be used to receive a selection from an individual. Both the accuracy and speed of an individual's contrast sensitivity may be tested and/or trained in accordance with the present invention.