Mobile Pupilometry with Distance-Based Light Intensity Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-purpose mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are unable to deliver a consistent and precise light intensity to the eye for accurate pupilometry due to variable distances between the light source and the eye, leading to unreliable and inaccurate measurement results.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method or device with a built-in camera, light stimulus source, and algorithm to determine the distance to the eye and adjust the light intensity accordingly, using auto-focus lenses, range finders, or Perkinje reflections to ensure a consistent light intensity is delivered to the pupil.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-purpose mobile devices are used for pupilometry, then device versatility and ease of operation are improved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to inability to deliver consistent light intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the light stimulus intensity parameter based on measured distance to the eye. The algorithm calculates required intensity adjustments according to the inverse square law relationship between distance and light intensity, ensuring consistent retinal illumination despite varying device-to-eye distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where the distance measurement from the sensor is fed back to the light control algorithm, which then adjusts the light stimulus intensity accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures that the actual light intensity reaching the eye matches the intended intensity regardless of distance variations.
2Ease of operation
If distance between light source and eye varies, then ease of operation is improved, but light intensity consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical distance control (fixed device positioning) with an optical/electronic solution using distance sensors and algorithmic light intensity adjustment. This substitution allows the device to maintain measurement accuracy while providing greater operational flexibility and ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static light intensity setting to a dynamic adjustment mechanism that continuously adapts light intensity based on real-time distance measurements. This dynamic approach allows the device to maintain optimal illumination conditions regardless of how the user positions the device.
3Measurement precision
If professional grade pupilometers are used, then measurement precision and light intensity consistency are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single mobile device platform, combining distance sensing, image capture, light stimulus delivery, and pupillary response measurement capabilities. This multi-functional approach achieves professional-grade measurement precision while avoiding the complexity and cost of dedicated specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-calibration and self-adjustment capabilities where the device automatically measures distance, calculates required light intensity adjustments, and configures its own parameters without requiring manual calibration or specialized setup procedures. This reduces operational complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
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
Ensures accurate and reliable pupilometry by maintaining a consistent light intensity, enabling precise measurement of pupillary responses.
Implementation Method 1
the camera can detect the light reflected from the cornea and measure its intensity
Data Source
AI summary
A method of examining a response from one or more pupils of an eye is described. The method includes providing a hand-held mobile device with a display, a built-in camera, and a light stimulus source, wherein the light stimulus source can emit light at various intensities; using the mobile device to locate the pupil; using the mobile device to determine a distance between the device and the pupil; applying an algorithm that calculates a specific or optimal light intensity based on the distance between the device and the eye and causes the light stimulus source to emit one or more flashes of light at the specific or optimal light intensity; using the built-in camera to record the response of the pupil to the one or more flashes of light; and displaying on the display the data representative of the response of the pupil to the one or more flashes of light.