Self-Administered Subjective Refraction Using Digital Test Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refraction exam systems require expert supervision and specialized equipment, making it difficult for individuals to obtain accurate refractive error measurements without professional assistance.
Innovation Solution
A self-administered subjective refraction exam system that uses a series of engineered images displayed on a computing device, allowing users to input their visual perceptions, which are analyzed to determine spherical, cylindrical, and axial measurements of their eyes, with results transmitted to a healthcare provider for interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional refraction exam systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring specialized equipment and expert supervision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses computer-generated images that replicate and modify traditional refraction test patterns (such as Snellen charts and E charts) to create virtual testing environments. These digital copies of traditional testing patterns enable the system to perform refraction exams without requiring physical specialized equipment, while maintaining measurement precision through algorithmic analysis of image perception.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical refraction equipment with a digital imaging system that uses computer-generated patterns displayed on screens. Instead of physical optometers or refraction machines, the system uses software algorithms to analyze how test subjects perceive displayed images, substituting mechanical measurement systems with computational analysis of visual perception.
2Measurement precision
If traditional refraction exam systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring expert supervision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables individuals to perform refraction exams independently through a user-friendly interface that guides test subjects through the testing process. The system automatically captures responses, processes data through algorithms, and generates preliminary results without requiring professional optometrists or ophthalmologists to administer the test, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms where the system adjusts displayed images based on test subject responses. The algorithm analyzes perception data and dynamically modifies subsequent test patterns to refine measurements, providing continuous feedback that guides the testing process and ensures accurate results without requiring expert intervention.
3Ease of operation
If self-administered refraction exam system is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to lack of professional validation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions healthcare providers as intermediaries who receive, review, and validate the refraction exam results generated by the self-administered system. The system maintains reliability by ensuring that professional clinicians can access and verify the measurements, creating a bridge between the accessible self-testing capability and the trusted professional validation needed for clinical decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems herein can include displaying at least one image to a test subject, wherein the at least one image has a visual appearance to the test subject based on physical characteristics of the eyes of the test subject, obtaining input from the test subject regarding the visual appearance of the at least one image, and calculating an optical parameter of the test subject based on the input from the test subject.