Head-Worn VR Device for Vestibulo-Ocular Performance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring and improving vestibulo-ocular performance (VOP) in non-clinical environments are limited by the complexity and cost of equipment, which restricts accurate tracking of head and eye movements during natural head motion, making it difficult to assess and enhance VOP effectively.
Innovation Solution
A head-worn device that presents virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) information, tracks head movement, and records eye movement to measure and improve VOP, allowing for more immersive and accurate assessment and treatment of vestibular disorders using VR/AR platforms that can evaluate all six semicircular canals and provide enhanced fixation abilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional equipment is used for measuring VOP, then measurement precision can be maintained, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical tracking equipment with virtual reality-based optical tracking systems. The VR system uses computer-generated visual environments and optical sensors to track head and eye movements, substituting traditional mechanical measurement apparatus with software-based virtual reality platforms that achieve comparable or superior measurement precision while reducing physical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The VR/AR platform serves multiple functions simultaneously: it presents visual stimuli for VOP measurement, tracks head movement through motion sensors, records eye movement via eye-tracking cameras, and provides immersive visual environments. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment for each measurement function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precision
2Measurement precision
If traditional equipment is used for measuring VOP, then measurement precision can be maintained, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs commercially available consumer-grade VR headsets and eye-tracking technology instead of expensive custom-built medical equipment. By utilizing off-the-shelf components that can be updated or replaced as technology evolves, the system achieves cost-effectiveness while maintaining measurement precision through continuous technological improvement in the consumer VR market
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement of expensive mechanical tracking systems with software-based VR environments and optical eye-tracking cameras significantly reduces hardware costs. The virtual reality platform uses computational methods and standard imaging sensors rather than specialized mechanical gimbals and precision instruments, making the system more affordable while preserving measurement accuracy
3Ease of operation
If VR/AR environment is used, then ease of operation and accessibility improve, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The VR system incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms where the computer continuously monitors head position and eye movement data, compares it against expected ranges, and adjusts the visual environment or measurement parameters accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures that even in the immersive VR setting, measurement precision is maintained through dynamic calibration and validation
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the VR environment based on measured head and eye movements, adjusting visual stimulus presentation, tracking parameters, and measurement protocols in real-time. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize for both user comfort and measurement precision throughout the assessment, maintaining accuracy while preserving ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for using a virtual reality or an augmented reality environment for the measurement and/or improvement of human vestibulo-ocular performance can be implemented by combining a video camera based eye orientation sensor, a head orientation sensor, a display, and an electronic circuit that connects the eye sensor, head sensor, and display. The system and method can be operated in the range of frequencies between 0.01 Hertz and 15 Hertz. The system and method can use a Fourier transform to compute a gain and a phase. The system and method can be used for measuring vestibulo-ocular reflex, dynamic visual acuity, dynamic visual stability, kinetic visual acuity, retinal image stability, or foveal fixation stability in a non-clinical setting. The system and method can be completely portable, head-worn, and self-contained.