Magnetometer-Based Eye Tracking for Neurological Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices fail to accurately and quickly measure symmetry, convergence, and latency in eye movements, which are crucial indicators of brain-related anomalies and learning impairments, often requiring executive function that leads to chaotic data collection.
Innovation Solution
A system using a single sensor to track eye movements as an object appears to move closer, with a light beam reflected from fixed and movable reflective surfaces, allowing the controller to record and evaluate convergence or divergence rates, and store data for future analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods are used to measure eye movement convergence, then measurement can be performed, but measurement precision and speed are insufficient and data collection becomes chaotic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/optical measurement systems with a magnetic field-based detection system. Magnets are embedded in the visual target, and a magnetometer detects eye movement by measuring changes in magnetic field position, providing both high precision and rapid data collection without the chaos of executive function interference
Solution Approach 2:
The system eliminates the need for subject cooperation or executive function by using automatic magnetometer detection. The eye movement data is collected passively through magnetic field changes as the eyes naturally track the visual target, enabling rapid automated measurement without human intervention or chaotic data from conscious control
2Ease of operation
If executive function is used to control vision and convergence, then vision control is achieved, but data collection becomes chaotic and measurement reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the interfering executive function from the measurement process. By using automatic magnetometer detection of magnetic field changes, the system captures pure eye movement data without the chaos introduced by conscious control or executive function, thereby improving data reliability while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the visual target and the detection system. Magnets embedded in the target create a magnetic field that the magnetometer detects, providing reliable objective data that bypasses the unreliable executive function control while requiring minimal subject cooperation
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are used to measure eye movement parameters, then comprehensive measurement is possible, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where a single integrated device performs multiple eye movement measurements (convergence, symmetry, latency) using magnetic field detection. The magnetometer and visual target system can measure all three parameters comprehensively while maintaining simple device architecture, eliminating the need for multiple separate measurement devices
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 timely and accurate detection of neurological conditions, including acute and chronic brain injuries, and learning impairments, allowing for early intervention and improved diagnosis and treatment.
Implementation Method 1
The object is in the form of a light beam that is directed to a pair of fixed reflective surfaces. The light beam is reflected from each of the fixed reflective surfaces toward a second pair of movable reflective surfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
In described embodiments, a device and method for diagnosing brain and neurological issues is provided. The device measures the performance of Convergence, Divergence, and binocular tracking capabilities of a subject's eyes, which can be used to determine whether a subject has experienced a brain or other neurological event.