Description:1
FORM2
THE PATENTS ACT 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETESPECIFICATION
(Seesection10andrule13)
1. TITLEOFTHEINVENTION
A SPECTACLE-MOUNTED DEVICE FOR DETECTING INTERMITTENT DEVIATION OF EYE AND EXAMINING OCULAR HEALTH
2. APPLICANT
(i) NAME : G D Goenka University
(ii) NATIONALITY: INDIAN
(iii) ADDRESS : Sohna Gurugram Road, Sohna, Haryana, India, 122103
(i) PREAMBLETOTHEDESCRIPTION
COMPLETE
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
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A SPECTACLE-MOUNTED DEVICE FOR DETECTING INTERMITTENT DEVIATION OF EYE AND EXAMINING OCULAR HEALTH
TECHNICAL FIELD
[1] The present invention relates to a spectacle-mounted device for detecting intermittent deviation of the eye and examining ocular surface health. More 5 particularly, it pertains to a device featuring a facility for basic eye health assessment, which includes the capability to detect the blinking rate of the eye for categorizing dry eye or normal tear conditions, as well as assessing the health of meibomian glands and identifying heat variations and inflammation on the ocular surface through the utilization of an infrared camera integrated into the device. 10
BACKGROUND
[2] Intermittent deviation of the eye, also known as intermittent exotropia or intermittent esotropia, is a condition characterized by periodic misalignment of the eyes, causing one eye to deviate from its normal position. This deviation disrupts binocular vision, leading to issues with depth perception and visual 15 discomfort. Additionally, the noticeable nature of this condition can result in cosmetic concerns, impacting the individual's self-esteem and confidence.
[3] Individuals with intermittent deviation may experience periods of normal ocular alignment, followed by episodes of misalignment. These episodes can vary in duration and severity, and they may not always be noticeable to the affected 20 individual or observers. However, during periods of misalignment, double vision (diplopia) may occur, as the brain receives conflicting visual information from the misaligned eyes.
[4] The underlying causes of intermittent deviation can be diverse, including issues with the muscles controlling eye movement, problems with binocular 25 vision development, or neurological conditions affecting eye coordination. Treatment for intermittent deviation depends on various factors, such as the
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severity of the condition, the age of the individual, and the underlying cause. Options may include corrective lenses, vision therapy, patching, or surgery to realign the eyes.
[5] Regular eye examinations are essential for diagnosing and managing intermittent eye deviation, as early detection and intervention can help prevent 5 complications and improve long-term visual outcomes. Additionally, individuals experiencing symptoms such as intermittent double vision or eye misalignment should consult an eye care professional for evaluation and appropriate management.
[6] In some cases, intermittent eye deviation can worsen over time, progressing to 10 more constant misalignment if not addressed early. Traditional treatments such as vision therapy, prism lenses, correcting refractive errors, and surgical intervention aim to improve eye coordination, strengthen eye muscles, and enhance binocular vision. However, there is currently no device available that provides real-time information about eye deviation to aid in treatment. 15
[7] In addressing this gap, a novel device is proposed to complement traditional treatment methods. This device is designed to consciously stimulate normal binocular vision whenever disruption occurs, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment plan. By providing real-time feedback and reminders to the user about their eye misalignment, this device aims to prevent 20 further progression of the condition and restore normal binocular function.
[8] Combining this innovative device with existing treatment modalities offers a comprehensive approach to managing intermittent eye deviation. By integrating technology with traditional interventions, healthcare providers can optimize outcomes and enhance the overall quality of care for individuals with this 25 condition.
OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
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[9] The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available techniques and processes.
[10] Accordingly, the present invention pertains to a spectacle-mounted device for detecting intermittent deviation of the eye and examining ocular surface 5 health. More particularly, it pertains to a device featuring a facility for basic eye health assessment, which includes the capability to detect the blinking rate of the eye for categorizing dry eye or normal tear conditions, as well as assessing the health of meibomian glands and identifying heat variations and inflammation on the ocular surface through the utilization of an infrared camera integrated into the 10 device.
[11] The yet one more object of present invention has been developed a device to facilitate continuous monitoring of eye health and detect abnormal deviations.
[12] Therefore, the current invention successfully overcoming all the above-discussed shortcomings present in the art. 15
[13] The main object of the present invention is to develop the deviceto alert the user of abnormal eye deviations.
[14] The main object of the present invention is to develop the devicethat is capable of analyzing acquired images for abnormalities in meibomian glands, ocular surface health, heat changes, and blinking rate. 20
[15] The main object of the present invention is to develop the device toenable integration with Internet of Things (IoT) technology for remote monitoring by eye care professionals.
[16] Another object of the present invention is to develop the deviceto provide historical data and trends related to eye deviation occurrences, ocular surface 25 health, blinking rate, surface inflammation, and meibomian gland condition
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through the mobile-based application interface for personalized patient monitoring and analysis.
[17] How the foregoing objects are achieved will be clear from the following brief description. In this context, it is clarified that the description provided is non-limiting and is only by way of explanation. Other objects and advantages of 5 the invention will become apparent as the foregoing description proceeds, taken together with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.
SUMMARY
[18] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified format that is further described in the detailed description of the 10 invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
[19] According to an aspect of the present invention relates to a spectacle-mounted device designed for detecting intermittent deviation of the eye and 15 examining ocular surface health is comprised of several key components. Firstly, the device features a spectacle frame equipped with a camera system positioned in front of each eye lens, enabling detailed imaging of the eyes. Additionally, a miniature vibrator is embedded in one of the temples of the spectacle frame, strategically placed to vibrate near the ear corresponding to the deviated eye, 20 effectively alerting the user to any abnormal eye alignment. An image processor, integrated with the camera system and an infrared camera, analyzes acquired images for abnormalities related to meibomian glands, ocular surface health, heat changes, and blinking rate. Furthermore, a gaze detection system, connected to the camera system, is programmed to identify normal eye alignment and trigger the 25 miniature vibrator upon detecting any abnormal deviation. Lastly, the device includes a mobile-based app interface for user interaction and data output, facilitating continuous monitoring of eye deviation, ocular surface health, blinking rate, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition, thereby offering a
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comprehensive solution for detecting and managing intermittent deviation of the eye while also examining ocular surface health.In an aspect of the invention, the gaze detection system activates the miniature vibrator, which vibrates near the ear of the corresponding side of the eye experiencing deviationupon detecting abnormal deviations. 5
[20] In an aspect of the invention, the device is further adapted for integration with Internet of Things (IoT) technology for remote monitoring by eye care professionals.
[21] In an aspect of the invention, the miniature vibratorvibrates for a predetermined duration upon activation by the gaze detection system to alert the 10 user of the abnormal deviation of the eye.
[22] In an aspect of the invention, the camera system includes a real-time image acquisition unit configured to provide continuous video feed of the ocular surface to the image processor for analysis.
[23] In an aspect of the invention, the infrared camera is capable of capturing 15 infrared images of the ocular surface to analyze heat changes, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition.
[24] In an aspect of the invention,the device further comprising a connection module facilitating wireless communication between the device and the mobile-based application interface for seamless data transmission and remote monitoring. 20
[25] In an aspect of the inventionthe mobile-based application interface provides historical data and trends related to eye deviation occurrences, ocular surface health, blinking rate, surface inflammation, and meibomian gland condition for personalized patient monitoring and analysis.
[26] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a 25 more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is
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appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 5
[27] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and devices in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the 10 principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components. 15
[28] Figure 1 illustratesa block diagram ofspectacle-mounted device for detecting intermittent deviation of eyeand examining ocular surface healthin accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and
[29] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 20
[30] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more 25 components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not
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to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[31] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the 5 drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in 10 the art to which the invention relates.
[32] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[33] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or 15 similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. 20
[34] The terms "comprise", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded 25 by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other
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components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.
[35] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided 5 herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
[36] The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[37] The terms “having”, “comprising”, “including”, and variations thereof signify the presence of a component. 10
[38] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[39] Referring Figure 1andFigure 2 illustrates a spectacle-mounted device (100) for detecting intermittent deviation of the eye and examining ocular surface health is a comprehensive system designed to provide real-time monitoring and 15 feedback to the user. The device (100) consists of several interconnected components aimed at fulfilling its purpose effectively.
[40] Firstly, the spectacle frame serves as the foundation of the device, housing various essential components. The camera system integrated into the frame is pivotal, featuring at least one camera positioned in front of each eye lens. These 20 cameras capture visual data, enabling the detection of abnormal eye movements and providing insights into ocular surface health.The camera system includes a real-time image acquisition unit configured to provide continuous video feed of the ocular surface to the image processor for analysis.
[41] Secondly, a miniature vibrator (106) discreetly embedded in one of the 25 temples of the spectacle frame plays a crucial role in alerting the user to any detected deviation of the eye. Positioned near the ear corresponding to the
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deviated eye, the vibrator provides a subtle yet effective notification method.The miniature vibrator (106) vibrates for a predetermined duration upon activation by the gaze detection to alert the user of the abnormal deviation of the eye.
[42] In addition, an image processor(108), intricately linked to the camera system and an infrared camera(104), processes the acquired images to detect 5 abnormalities. The image processor (108) is programmed to identify irregularities in various parameters, including meibomian glands, ocular surface health, heat changes, and blinking rate.The infrared camera (104) is capable of capturing infrared images of the ocular surface to analyze heat changes, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition. 10
[43] Further, a gaze detection system(102), interlinked with the camera system, is responsible for detecting normal eye alignment. Upon detecting abnormal deviation, the system triggers the miniature vibrator, alerting the user to take corrective action.The gaze detection system (102) activates the miniature vibrator, (106) which vibrates near the ear of the corresponding side of the eye 15 experiencing deviationupon detecting abnormal deviations.
[44] The device features a mobile-based app interface(110), facilitating user interaction and data output. The interface (110) enables continuous monitoring of various eye-related parameters, including eye deviation, ocular surface health, blinking rate, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition. The mobile-based 20 application interface (110) provides historical data and trends related to eye deviation occurrences, ocular surface health, blinking rate, surface inflammation, and meibomian gland condition for personalized patient monitoring and analysis.
[45] The seamless connectivity between the device and the mobile app empowers users to track their eye health effectively and take necessary 25 precautions based on real-time data analysis.the device is further adapted for integration with Internet of Things (IoT) technology for remote monitoring by eye care professionals.
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[46] Additionally, the spectacle-mounted device includes a connection module, expanding its capabilities by enabling seamless wireless communication between the device and the mobile-based application interface. The connection module serves as a vital link, facilitating the transmission of data between the device and the mobile app interface. With this feature, users can remotely monitor their eye 5 health status and receive real-time updates on various parameters, such as eye deviation, ocular surface health, blinking rate, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition, directly through the mobile app. The integration of the connection module enhances the user experience, providing convenience and accessibility while ensuring continuous monitoring and proactive management of 10 eye health.
[47] In summary, the spectacle-mounted device integrates advanced technology and interconnected components to provide comprehensive monitoring of eye health, enabling users to proactively manage any detected abnormalities and ensure optimal ocular well-being. 15
While certain present preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Clearly, the invention may be otherwise variously embodied, and practiced within the scope of the following claims.
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Claims
We claim:
1. A spectacle-mounted device for detecting intermittent deviation of eyeand examining ocular surface health, comprising:
a. a spectacle frame includinga camera system mounted on the 5 spectacle frame, wherein the camera system including at least one camera positioned in front of each eye lens of the spectacle frame;
b. a miniature vibrator embedded in a temple of the spectacleframeto vibrate near the ear corresponding to the deviated eye to alert the user; 10
c. an image processor configured to the camera system and the infrared camera to detect abnormality in acquired images for abnormalities in meibomian glands, ocular surface health, heat changes, and blinking rate;
d. a gaze detection system connected to the camera system and 15 configured to detect normal eye alignment and activate the miniature vibrator upon detecting abnormal deviation;
e. a mobile-based app interface configured to the device for user interaction and data output, enabling continuous monitoring of eye deviation, ocular surface health, blinking rate, inflammation, and 20 meibomian gland condition.
2. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe gaze detection system (102) activates the miniature vibrator, which vibrates near the ear of the corresponding side of the eye experiencing deviationupon detecting 25 abnormal deviations.
3. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device is further adapted for integration with Internet of Things (IoT) technology for remote monitoring by eye care professionals. 30
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4. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the miniature vibrator (106) vibrates for a predetermined duration upon activation by the gaze detection to alert the user of the abnormal deviation of the eye.
5. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the camera system 5 includes a real-time image acquisition unit configured to provide continuous video feed of the ocular surface to the image processor for analysis.
6. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the infrared camera (104) 10 is capable of capturing infrared images of the ocular surface to analyze heat changes, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition.
7. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a connection module facilitating wireless communication between the device and the 15 mobile-based application interface for seamless data transmission and remote monitoring.
8. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mobile-based application interface (110) provides historical data and trends related to 20 eye deviation occurrences, ocular surface health, blinking rate, surface inflammation, and meibomian gland condition for personalized patient monitoring and analysis.
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Dated this 14/03/2024
GD Goenka University
APPLICANT(s) NAME AND SIGNATURE
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ABTRACT
A SPECTACLE-MOUNTED DEVICE FOR DETECTING INTERMITTENT DEVIATION OF EYE AND EXAMINING OCULAR HEALTH 5
The present invention relates to spectacle-mounted device (100) for detecting intermittent deviation of eyeand examining ocular surface health. The device is integrated into a sleek and comfortable spectacle frame, housing essential components such as a camera system positioned in front of each eye lens and a miniature vibrator discreetly embedded in one temple. An advanced image 10 processor, coupled with an infrared camera(104), analyzes acquired images to detect abnormalities related to meibomian glands, ocular surface health, heat changes, and blinking rate. Additionally, a gaze detection system (102) ensures the accurate detection of normal eye alignment and activates the miniature vibrator (106) to alert users of abnormal deviations. Furthermore, a mobile-based 15 app interface (110) enables seamless user interaction and data output, facilitating continuous monitoring of various eye-related parameters including eye deviation, ocular surface health, blinking rate, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition.
Figure 1 20 , Claims:We claim:
1. A spectacle-mounted device for detecting intermittent deviation of eyeand examining ocular surface health, comprising:
a. a spectacle frame includinga camera system mounted on the 5 spectacle frame, wherein the camera system including at least one camera positioned in front of each eye lens of the spectacle frame;
b. a miniature vibrator embedded in a temple of the spectacleframeto vibrate near the ear corresponding to the deviated eye to alert the user; 10
c. an image processor configured to the camera system and the infrared camera to detect abnormality in acquired images for abnormalities in meibomian glands, ocular surface health, heat changes, and blinking rate;
d. a gaze detection system connected to the camera system and 15 configured to detect normal eye alignment and activate the miniature vibrator upon detecting abnormal deviation;
e. a mobile-based app interface configured to the device for user interaction and data output, enabling continuous monitoring of eye deviation, ocular surface health, blinking rate, inflammation, and 20 meibomian gland condition.
2. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe gaze detection system (102) activates the miniature vibrator, which vibrates near the ear of the corresponding side of the eye experiencing deviationupon detecting 25 abnormal deviations.
3. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device is further adapted for integration with Internet of Things (IoT) technology for remote monitoring by eye care professionals. 30
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4. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the miniature vibrator (106) vibrates for a predetermined duration upon activation by the gaze detection to alert the user of the abnormal deviation of the eye.
5. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the camera system 5 includes a real-time image acquisition unit configured to provide continuous video feed of the ocular surface to the image processor for analysis.
6. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the infrared camera (104) 10 is capable of capturing infrared images of the ocular surface to analyze heat changes, inflammation, and meibomian gland condition.
7. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a connection module facilitating wireless communication between the device and the 15 mobile-based application interface for seamless data transmission and remote monitoring.
8. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mobile-based application interface (110) provides historical data and trends related to 20 eye deviation occurrences, ocular surface health, blinking rate, surface inflammation, and meibomian gland condition for personalized patient monitoring and analysis.