Electronic Amsler Grid for Remote Visual Distortion Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting early symptoms of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, such as metamorphopsia, are limited by the need for manual and time-consuming Amsler grid tests that lack remote monitoring and data management capabilities, making it difficult for patients to perform tests conveniently and for clinicians to access results.
Innovation Solution
A portable electronic device implementing an electronic Amsler grid with wireless connectivity, allowing patients to perform self-administered tests using various input methods, record results, and transmit them electronically for remote evaluation and integration into Electronic Medical Records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual Amsler grid tests are used, then patients can perform tests at home, but the process is time-consuming and lacks remote monitoring capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of drawing and analyzing Amsler grids with an electronic system. The electronic device automatically generates grids, captures patient responses through touch input, and digitally stores results, eliminating the time-consuming manual drawing and physical collection processes while maintaining ease of home use
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic Amsler test system enables patients to independently perform tests at home using the portable device. The system self-guides patients through the testing process, automatically captures responses, and stores results without requiring clinician presence or manual intervention, thus saving time while maintaining convenience
2Ease of operation
If manual Amsler grid tests are used, then patients can self-perform tests, but data management and result access for clinicians is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical paper grids and manual data collection with an electronic system that digitally captures, stores, and transmits test results. The electronic device automatically records patient responses and stores them in digital format, enabling easy retrieval and access for clinicians without the complications of physical document management
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where test results are automatically transmitted from the patient's device to the clinician's system. This digital feedback mechanism ensures that test data is continuously available to clinicians for monitoring disease progression, eliminating the information loss and access difficulties associated with manual data collection
3Extent of automation
If electronic Amsler grid with wireless connectivity is implemented, then remote monitoring is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal capabilities of existing portable electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) that already possess wireless connectivity, processing power, and data storage. By utilizing these multi-functional devices rather than creating a specialized dedicated device, the system achieves automated remote monitoring while minimizing additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses existing communication networks and protocols as intermediaries to transmit test data between patient and clinician systems. By relying on established infrastructure rather than building proprietary communication systems, the patent enables remote monitoring functionality without significantly increasing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system and apparatus are provided for portable evaluation of metamophopsia. The method, system and apparatus includes a computer application capable of making any handset or portable display terminal into a portable electronic eye evaluation unit, including clinician's and/or automated assistance, test evaluation and re-test if required.