Gaze-Tracking Testing for Brain Dysfunction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack the ability to accurately and objectively quantify gaze-tracking deficits in individuals suspected of brain dysfunction, particularly in acute or chronic conditions such as concussions and PTSD, which are common among veterans and athletes.
Innovation Solution
A sophisticated system and method using a head-mounted display with a video camera and gaze-tracker, allowing for quantitative measurement of gaze-tracking errors relative to baseline performance, employing a moving 'blob' target that adjusts in speed and size to assess eye movement accuracy, and providing a non-invasive, claustrophobia-free testing experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional subjective methods (e.g., finger-following test) are used to assess gaze tracking, then the testing process is simple and quick, but the measurement accuracy and objectivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual finger-following test with an automated computer-based system that uses a video camera to track eye movements and a display to present moving targets. This substitution of mechanical assessment with automated optical tracking and computational analysis enables objective, quantifiable measurement of gaze-tracking deficits while eliminating subjectivity from the evaluation process.
2Measurement precision
If a head-mounted display is used for testing, then gaze-tracking measurement accuracy is improved, but the subject may experience claustrophobia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote display (computer screen or monitor) as an intermediary between the subject and the testing system. Instead of placing the display directly on or near the subject's head, the moving target is presented on a remote screen that the subject views from a distance. This intermediary approach maintains the ability to conduct automated gaze-tracking assessment while eliminating the confined, claustrophobic environment associated with head-mounted displays.
3Productivity
If multiple test stages with increasing velocities are implemented, then the ability to measure fatigue objectively is improved, but the test duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic testing protocol with multiple stages, where the velocity of the moving target increases progressively through different test stages. This dynamic approach allows the system to assess gaze-tracking performance under varying demands, enabling objective measurement of fatigue as performance deteriorates with increasing speed. The progressive velocity increase provides a systematic way to evaluate how brain dysfunction affects the ability to maintain tracking accuracy under escalating cognitive load.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods provided utilize gaze-tracking to measure quantitatively and accurately the ability of an athlete or other subject suspected of a concussion to maintain gaze within a figure-eight pattern during a given period of time. The fixation icon is presented at increasing velocities, with multiple staged velocities constituting the preferred embodiment. Utilizing a figure-eight pattern is preferred. Total tracking error time is tabulated during each velocity stage of the test protocol, and total tracking error time occurring during a given velocity stage is compared to a subject's baseline, e.g., a pre-season Individual Bioperformance Level (IBL) for that velocity stage. Systems and methods disclosed may be used to help prevent debilitating neurological damage in our athlete population, as well as having important military applications related to PTSD, and to other mission-critical performance endeavors.