Galvanometric Laser Neuro-otologic Testing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neuro-otologic testing devices have slow response times, limiting their ability to effectively match motion of visual stimuli to patient movements, which is crucial for assessing and treating vestibular and balance disorders, particularly in environments like aviation where motion sickness is a significant concern.
Innovation Solution
A compact neuro-otologic testing device with a high-speed, servo-controlled galvanometric XY interface laser system capable of rapid image movement, exceeding 1,000,000 degrees/second² and 12,000 degrees/second velocity, allowing for precise and dynamic visual acuity testing and desensitization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a traditional neuro-otologic testing device is used, then the device structure is simple, but the response time is slow and cannot match patient motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical display systems with a laser-based optical system. The laser light source combined with galvanometric mirrors creates a rapid-response visual stimulus system that eliminates mechanical inertia, enabling response times under 75 milliseconds. This substitution of mechanical components with optical components directly resolves the contradiction between fast response and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic visual stimulus system where the laser target can rapidly change position, size, and shape in real-time. The galvanometric mirrors enable the visual target to dynamically track and match patient head and eye movements, creating an adaptive testing environment. This dynamic capability allows the system to respond instantly to patient motion, resolving the speed limitation of traditional static systems.
2Measurement precision
If visual stimuli cannot match patient motion rapidly, then the testing setup is simple, but the measurement precision of vestibular function is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors patient head position and eye movement, then adjusts the laser target position in real-time to match these movements. This closed-loop feedback ensures the visual stimulus remains accurately aligned with the patient's visual field during motion, enabling precise measurement of visual acuity and vestibular function even during rapid head movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes rapid changes in laser parameters including position, size, and shape to create dynamic visual stimuli. The system can instantly modify these parameters to match patient motion characteristics, enabling precise measurement of visual tracking and vestibular responses. The ability to dynamically adjust multiple laser parameters simultaneously resolves the contradiction between measurement precision and response speed.
3Productivity
If the laser system operates at high speed, then the visual acuity testing is effective, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pulsing of the laser rather than continuous operation. The laser emits light in synchronized pulses that correspond to the testing protocol requirements, turning the laser on only when visual stimuli are needed and off during transitions or between measurements. This periodic operation maintains high testing efficiency while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous laser operation.
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 efficient and effective assessment and treatment of motion sickness and vestibular disorders by providing rapid and precise visual stimuli, improving patient readiness for dynamic environments and reducing the risk of motion-related issues in pilots and other personnel.
Implementation Method 1
A compact, rapid response laser light source capable of forming fast cycling (e.g. faster than 75 mille-seconds) shapes and images in which the motion of the display may be easily and precisely matched to the motion of the patient and the patient's eyes
Data Source
AI summary
The above objects are achieved with a compact neuro-otologic testing device and method of utilizing the same according to the present invention. The device according to the present invention provides an image producing laser with a right hand, servo controlled galvanometric based XY interface. The high quality closed loop servo control system that can drive the target (i.e. the laser image) in excess of 1,000,000 degrees/second2 and at velocities in excess of 12000 degrees/second. The bandwidth of the XY interface is greater than 400 Hz, providing high image reproducibility. The repeatability and position accuracy of the target is +−3 arc-seconds and the field of range of the XY interface are about 60 degrees (i.e. about 60 degrees horizontal and 60 degrees vertical).