Perspective Vision Tunnel Mirror Folded Optical Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for evaluating visual abilities require a large dedicated space, making them inefficient and impractical for use in smaller areas or varied environments.
Innovation Solution
A perspective vision tunnel device with low reflectance walls and strategically placed mirrors that reflect test images to create the illusion of stimuli at a greater distance, allowing for visual acuity testing in a compact space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large dedicated space is used to display visual stimuli at optical infinity, then visual acuity testing accuracy is improved, but the area required for testing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses mirrors to create virtual images of test stimuli that appear to be located at optical infinity, eliminating the need for physically large spaces. The mirrors copy and redirect light paths to simulate distant viewing conditions in a compact environment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the spatial dimension by using folded optical paths through mirrors. Instead of requiring linear distance for optical infinity, the system uses reflected light paths that fold space, allowing distant stimulus presentation within a compact physical footprint
2Measurement precision
If multiple mirrors are arranged within the tunnel to reflect test images, then the perceived distance of stimuli is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mirrors serve multiple functions simultaneously: they extend the optical path length, create the perception of distance, and fold the physical space. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components that would increase complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric mirror arrangements where mirrors are positioned at specific non-uniform angles and locations within the tunnel. This asymmetric configuration optimizes the optical path folding to achieve the desired perceived distance while minimizing the number of mirrors required
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 efficient and portable visual acuity testing in various environments, including those with high ambient light, by reducing the physical space required and maintaining accurate stimulus presentation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one mirror arranged within the tunnel to reflect test images output from the display
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for testing a subject's visual ability are provided. More specifically, the device may include a perspective vision tunnel comprised of plurality of low reflectance walls with one or more mirrors arranged within the perspective vision tunnel. Visual indicia for administering the test of a subject's visual ability are displayed into a first portion of the perspective vision tunnel. The one or more mirrors are arranged to reflect the visual indicia out of the first portion such that visual indicia may be visually perceived by the subject. In accordance with the invention, a subject may be tested utilizing the perspective vision tunnel and input may be received from the individual. The received input may then, for example, be used to compute data related to the user's visual ability.