Gamified Vision Testing System for Multi-Parameter Acuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vision testing methods are inadequate for accurately measuring visual function, particularly in children and elderly patients, as they are time-consuming, variable, and do not comprehensively assess multiple aspects of vision, leading to potential undetected vision loss and its associated consequences.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented system using a handheld device presents optotypes in a gamified environment to measure multiple aspects of visual function, including resolution acuity, detection acuity, recognition acuity, hyperacuity, temporal acuity, spectral acuity, and visual field, without requiring patient attention or verbal response, allowing for comprehensive and accurate vision assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional Snellen chart testing is used, then visual acuity can be measured, but the testing process is time-consuming and requires patient attention and communication skills
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static chart-based vision testing into a dynamic video game environment where stimuli change continuously. The game presents moving objects and requires continuous interaction, allowing vision measurement to occur naturally during gameplay rather than through static chart reading. This dynamic approach maintains measurement precision while significantly reducing testing time and eliminating the need for sustained patient attention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automated vision measurement through the patient's natural interaction with the game without requiring clinician intervention for each measurement. The software automatically presents stimuli, tracks responses, and calculates vision metrics based on game performance data, allowing the testing system to serve itself and reducing the time clinicians need to spend on administration.
2Measurement precision
If traditional chart testing is used, then visual acuity can be assessed, but multiple aspects of visual function are not comprehensively evaluated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a single video game platform that simultaneously measures multiple aspects of visual function including visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, colour vision, and visual field. Instead of requiring separate specialized equipment for each test, the game-based system integrates multiple measurement functions into one unified platform, reducing overall system complexity while providing comprehensive assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple traditional vision tests into a single integrated game experience. Elements such as acuity testing, contrast sensitivity testing, and colour vision assessment are combined into one cohesive gameplay session, allowing comprehensive evaluation of visual function without requiring multiple separate testing procedures or complex equipment setups.
3Measurement precision
If near-threshold testing is performed to gain reliable vision measurements, then accurate visual function data can be obtained, but patient attention wanders and results become variable
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic presentation of visual stimuli within the game, with stimuli appearing and disappearing in regular intervals. This periodic action maintains patient engagement through the natural rhythm of gameplay while systematically probing vision thresholds. The regular stimulation pattern ensures consistent measurement conditions and reduces variability caused by attention fluctuations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements immediate feedback mechanisms where patient responses to visual stimuli directly influence game outcomes and subsequent stimulus presentation. This feedback loop maintains patient attention and motivation throughout the testing process, ensuring reliable responses even at near-threshold levels. The gamified feedback reinforces engagement and reduces the variability associated with traditional threshold testing.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides an advantageous system and corresponding method for measuring a plurality of aspects of vision. It is a computer-implemented, user-interactive system which can be used by practitioners such as opticians to measure and assess a patient's visual acuity. It comprises a handheld computing device arranged and configured to present at least one optotype to a user (patient) within a gamified environment. This aspect of the invention provides the advantage that it is more easily used by certain types of patients, such as children, the elderly or those suffering from medical/clinical conditions who would typically struggle to use traditional measuring tools. In a preferred embodiment, the optotype has at least one characteristic selected to facilitate the measurement of at least one, or preferably at least two, aspects of visual function; and the invention is arranged to detect the user' s response to the optotype to provide a measurement of at least one or at least two aspects of visual function. Advantageously, this can be achieved in one 'sitting'. The plurality of aspects of visual function can include visual acuity, central visual field, contrast sensitivity, stereopsis and/or colour vision, detection acuity of vision, resolution acuity of vision (spatial resolution or identification of static of dynamic directionality), recognition acuity of vision, hyperacuity of vision, temporal acuity of vision, spectral acuity of vision. The at least one optotype is repeatedly presented to the user, and the at least one characteristic is altered upon each repetition. The repetition may continue until a threshold or limit is reached. The at least one characteristic relates to the level of detail, contrast, colour, position or movement of the at least one optotype.