Subjective Visual Vertical Mask With Electronic Line Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the subjective visual vertical and testing otolith function are cumbersome, require large equipment, and need to be conducted in a darkened room, limiting their usability and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with a mask-mounted inclination sensor, electronic display, and wireless data transmission that allows users to manually adjust an image to subjective vertical alignment without external references, enabling measurements to be taken anywhere, including at home, without the need for darkening the room.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large dome and motor system is used to rotate the line of light, then the measurement of subjective visual vertical can be performed, but the device becomes very large and requires a darkened room
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotation system (dome and motor) with an electronic display system that presents visual stimuli directly to the subject's eyes. The line of light is generated electronically on a display device rather than through physical rotation of a large dome structure, eliminating the need for complex mechanical components and darkened rooms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the line of light on an electronic display device. Instead of using actual light projected through a rotating dome, the system uses a digital image or graphic representation that can be displayed on standard screens, making the measurement device portable and adaptable to various environments.
2Measurement precision
If specialized examination rooms with darkened conditions are used, then accurate otolith function testing can be performed, but the accessibility and ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the measurement system universal by using standard electronic display devices that are already present in most environments. The system can be operated on common devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers, allowing otolith function testing to be performed anywhere without requiring specialized darkened examination rooms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables subjects to perform the measurement themselves using their own devices. The application guides users through the process of aligning the line of light with perceived vertical, allowing self-administered testing without requiring specialized facilities or extensive operator training.
3Ease of operation
If a portable device with manual adjustment is used, then ease of operation and accessibility improve, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors the subject's adjustments and provides real-time visual feedback through the display. The line of light responds dynamically to user input, allowing subjects to iteratively adjust the orientation until they achieve accurate alignment with their perceived vertical, thereby maintaining measurement precision while preserving ease of operation.
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
The device allows for quick, precise, and effort-efficient determination of subjective visual vertical, facilitating the assessment of otolith function in various environments and positions, including those where large equipment or darkened rooms are not feasible.
Implementation Method 1
an inclination sensor whose signals represent the inclination of the mask and/or an acceleration acting on the mask
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~4
AI summary
The apparatus has an opaque mask (10), which is placed opaque to a person and an inclination sensor (18). An electronic display (12) is provided for displaying an image within the mask, where a vertically oriented image positioned on the display is visually set in operation by control signals. A portable operating device generates the control signals for the display. A mirror system is disposed within the mask in such a way that the image appearing on the display deflects toward the viewer. The image is designed as a pattern of light or light line. An independent claim is included for a method for determining the subjective visual vertical in a person.