Visual Function Testing Apparatus with Variable Luminance Obstacle Courses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing visual function and functional vision do not effectively evaluate an individual's ability to navigate and perform daily tasks at varying luminance levels, particularly for those with visual impairments, and lack standardized measures for tracking changes in vision over time.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for testing visual function and functional vision by having subjects navigate obstacle courses at different luminance levels, with courses designed to assess speed and accuracy, and using standardized luminance levels and course layouts to evaluate visual performance, which can be repeated to measure changes before and after ocular treatments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standardized obstacle courses with controlled luminance levels are implemented, then measurement precision of visual function is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is divided into separate modular components: standardized course layouts with marked paths and obstacles, controllable lighting systems for luminance adjustment, and standardized protocols for administration. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs controlled variation of luminance levels as a key parameter to assess visual function under different lighting conditions. By systematically changing this physical parameter and measuring performance responses, the system achieves high measurement precision without requiring complex diagnostic equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple courses with different layouts are used to assess navigation ability, then adaptability of the test is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The course is segmented into standardized elements (marked paths, specific obstacle types, turn configurations) that can be systematically combined to create multiple test variations. This modular approach enables adaptability across different visual conditions while maintaining consistent measurement standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized course design serves multiple functions: it assesses navigation ability, measures speed and accuracy, evaluates performance across luminance levels, and can be adapted for different populations (children, adults, various visual impairments). This multi-functionality achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Measurement precision
If speed and accuracy are measured to evaluate visual performance, then measurement precision is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test design allows subjects to self-regulate their pace while navigating the course, eliminating the need for complex pacing mechanisms. Speed is naturally captured by timing completion, and accuracy is objectively measured by obstacle avoidance, reducing measurement complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of high-contrast visual markers (such as colored arrows or contrasting path markings) enhances detectability of course elements, making speed and accuracy measurements more reliable without requiring complex sensing equipment. The visual contrast itself serves as the measurement enhancement mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A test of visual function and/or functional vision may be performed at varying luminance levels. A first course may be selected for a subject. A given course may comprise a layout having a beginning point, at least one turn, at least one obstacle, and an ending point. The first course may be illuminated with a first luminance level based on an estimated lower light sensitivity cutoff. The subject may be prompted to perform a first run of the test. The test may comprise, from the beginning point to the ending point, navigating the layout of the first course by walking around the at least one turn and avoiding the at least one obstacle. A determination may be made as to whether the subject successfully completed the first course based on one or both of speed or accuracy.