Handheld Neurological Assessment System for Field Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neurological assessment tools are cumbersome, require frequent calibration, and are not suitable for field deployment due to sensitivity to head-movement artifacts, making them impractical for assessing visual and vestibular functions in operational settings.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, low-power, calibration-free system utilizing multimodal 3D imaging technologies for robust head and eye tracking, enabling visual, vestibular, and oculomotor assessments, and distinguishing between otolith and canal-driven responses, which can be used in a hand-held device for operational deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional oculometric instruments are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (eye tracking, head tracking, display, processing) into a single integrated handheld device. The computing system integrates the display device, eye position sensor, head position sensor, and processing capabilities into one unified tool that can be held in the hand, eliminating the need for separate complex instruments for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld device performs multiple assessment functions simultaneously - it tracks eye position, tracks head position, displays visual stimuli, processes oculometric data, and provides neurological assessment all in one device. This multi-functional approach replaces multiple specialized instruments with a single universal tool suitable for field deployment.
2Measurement precision
If traditional oculometric instruments are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs calibration and tracking without requiring manual intervention. The eye position sensor and head position sensor continuously monitor and track the user's eye and head movements, with the computing system automatically processing this data to provide assessment results. This eliminates the need for operators to manually calibrate or adjust settings during testing.
3Measurement precision
If traditional oculometric instruments are used, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability to field conditions is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to head movement by continuously tracking head position and compensating for it in real-time. The computing system uses head position data from the sensor to adjust eye position calculations, allowing accurate oculometric measurement even when the user moves their head. This dynamic compensation enables field deployment without requiring a stabilized display or restricted head movement.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a portable, hand-held, self-powered, self-calibrated, easy-to-use “iCOBRA” system, a neural/neurological assessment tool for both operational decision-making in military, aerospace, sports, and other high-performance settings, and to assist in diagnostics in medical practice. The system harnesses multimodal 3D imaging technologies for robust, calibration free, head and eye tracking to allow for visual, vestibular, and oculomotor assessment of human neural health and performance.