Abstract: The methods and systems of the present invention enable a user to perform eye exercises and training that may aid in relieving eye fatigue and eye strain. In general, the present invention teaches providing movement between associated images having a plurality of objects. When a viewer focuses on a central focal point interposed between the viewer's eyes and the associated images, the viewer perceives, in addition to the associated images, a merged image (also possibly having a plurality of objects) derived from the associated images. Then, by performing one of a number of suitable movements with the associated objects, the viewer's eyes are exercised. For example, by increasing the separation between the associated images along a horizontal axis while the viewer attempts to maintain the perception of the merged image, the viewer's eyes are exercised in such a manner that eye fatigue and eye strain may be relieved.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating muscular disorders of the eye. The method comprising placing an object in front of the patient at a predetermined distance and placing a binocular optical system comprising lenses and prisms between the objects and the patient's eyes. A patch is placed over the patient's strong eye and the focal length of the optical system is adjusted so that the objects are clearly resolved by the patient. The patch is removed from the good eye so that the patient can repeat the exercise using both eyes. The object is then placed at a greater distance from the patient and the exercise is repeated until the resolution observed with the patient's weak eye is equal to the resolution observed with the patient's strong eye.

Abstract: Off axis photon stimulation of a person's eye, provided by a light field which is either uniform or interactive depending on pupil position, provides for biological and/or psychological benefits. The photon stimulation is advantageously provided using eye wear with embedded or affixed light delivery elements such as fiber optic members.

Abstract: An infant eye trainer (10) for a baby bottle (12) comprising a structure (14) for gripping the baby bottle (12). An extension member (16) extends from the gripping structure (14). A visually attractive ornament (18) on a distal free end of the extension member (16), will help keep the eyes (20) of an infant (22) focused in a straight manner towards the ornament (18), thereby preventing the eyes (20) of the infant (22) from crossing when the infant (22) is nursing with the baby bottle (12).

Abstract: This relates to a device to be located in front of a person eyes containing a plurality of light sources disposed and mounted near the edge, and on the concave side of a dish shaped wall. The position of said dish shaped wall relative to the user eyes and visual axis is adjustable by means adjustable forhead and chin supports. Each individual light source is sequentially turned on and off. When one light source turns off the following light source turns on immediately or after a predetermined time delay. The sequence may be clockwise, counterclockwise, zig-zag, random or any desired pattern. The person using this invention must move his eyes to focus them on the light source that turns on sequentially.

Abstract: A device for training the binocular function of the human visual system for optimal performance. The device is comprised of a horizontal shaft, with a handle substantially in the center of it. It has two stationary vertical posts. One post is affixed to each end of the shaft. The posts are aligned in a spaced apart relationship in the same vertical plane. When combined the elements of this device induce physiological diplopia and enable it to be used dynamically as visual biofeedback during training. The visual biofeedback is informative because it provides the user with proof that their visual system is focused binocularly. Training systematically and methodically recalibrates the musculature of the human visual system, thereby enhancing its performance. Use of the personal Binocular Trainer also increases the user's attention span and comprehension.

Abstract: An arrangement for enhancing vision and/or hand-eye coordination includes a foldable or bendable sheet. The sheet carries a circular array of annular pads, and a light-emitting diode fits in the center of each pad. The pads and light-emitting diodes can be connected to a microprocessor which, in turn, can be connected to a display unit. The microprocessor can be programmed to illuminate the light-emitting diodes in different sequences. The sheet is suspended and a subject stands in front of the sheet. As different light-emitting diodes are illuminated, the subject attempts to follow the motion with her/his eyes. Alternatively, the subject attempts to extinguish an illuminated light-emitting diode by touching, or propelling an object against, the associated pad. The microprocessor can establish a score or rating for the subject, and the results can be shown on the display unit.

Abstract: Eye-wear, such as eye glasses or goggles, are provided with lenses having an embedded fiber optic or optical waveguide mesh to produce an interactive light field (ILF) at the back of the wearer's eye. In order for the subject to see clearly through the glasses, controlled light enters from the periphery of the pupil, at an angle, such that the main image (i.e., the external environment scene) enters perpendicular to the pupil. The ILF tracks the pupil using the embedded fiber optic mesh. The wearer's brain is stimulated to adjust or maintain a circadian sleep rhythm despite natural light influences. The device has application for example in mitigating the effects of jet-lag, sleep disorders or helping shift workers adjust to a new shift.

Abstract: This relates to a device to be located in front of one eye or both, eyes to exercise the ciliary muscle. A plurality of light sources are disposed and mounted on the inner surface of a first tubular enclosure. Said first tubular enclosure has one end open, and the other end is closed. In a first preferred embodiment said open end is of sufficient amplitude to be located in front of only one eye at a time. In a second preferred embodiment said open end is of sufficient amplitude to be able to be located in front of both eyes. Said light sources are located at different distances from the open end of said first tubular enclosure. Said light sources are turned on and off sequentially. The sequence may be away or toward said open end, random or any other desired pattern.

Abstract: A bare eyed stereogram based on continuous tone, non-random dot art and a process for making the stereogram. A computer implemented process for making the stereogram uses a computer system having a central processing unit, memory, storage, a user interface, an edit program and display means. The art is input to the system in the form of repeating bands of picture elements in a stereogram base. The picture elements have assigned information, and depth information as well. Below a threshold value, new information is assigned by the method of smear. At or above the threshold value, information is provided by a number of techniques which import the information values of picture elements outside the stereogram base. Preferably some of the information is color information and the external color information values are altered to blend with colors in the surrounding base. A process for making a stereogram with wide repeating bands that can be viewed at a distance is shown.

Abstract: A contact lens and method of use are disclosed where the lens has a vertical orienting mass and an occluded portion that restricts light passing through the portion. The occluded portion can be preselected to continuously restrict visual input to any portion of the retina, regardless of movement of the eye.

Abstract: An exercise device for prophylaxis and improving eye acuity conditions that can be used at home or at work without any medical supervision. The device includes several visual targets, a control unit and a keyboard. The device causing one target at a time in a random order to display one of a number of predetermined characters randomly chosen. A person who use the device put equally spaced targets in front of himself or herself at a distance from 0.5' to 20' and adjust the characters displayed to minimal discernable size. During every therapy session the person must denote each character on each target through the keyboard. If the person's response is correct the next character will appear. The amount of correct responses in a session and time intervals between sessions are predetermined depending on the person's age, type of his or her activities and eye acuity conditions.

Abstract: A training device for the therapy of, in particular, brain-damaged patients having perception defects, includes a large number of signalers (6) arranged on one surface (4) for the production of perceptual stimuli, a marking element that is firmly attached in a specific location on the surface (4) and on which the patient must focus his eyes during the therapy, a start-signaling device (16) for producing a starting signal, a control mechanism (20), a reaction-detecting device (22), and a time-determining device (24).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an instrument for improving eyesight and color-blindness, more specifically, to an instrument for improving or recovering weakened eyesight or color-blindness of a person. The instrument includes a sphere-shaped member having a plurality of apertures. There is an apparatus for emanating visible ray into the eyeball. Support means attaches to the member as does an eyepiece consisting of a light-transmitting plate and a plurality of LEDs. There is a case for protecting the light-transmitting plate and a plurality of light-transmitting holes which are equipped with plates in red, green and colorless or clear. The instrument also includes a sensor for preventing sleepiness and a driving section. There is a motor driving the light-transmitting plate. The instrument also includes lighting and fire-extinguishing equipment with a carbon point and a sound amplifier.

Abstract: The invention provides a tinted pair of lenses for overcoming the deleterious effects of nystagmic oscillations, particularly in persons suffering from dyslexia, the tinting varying along the lateral direction and extending in each lens over at least two zones, a lighter tint being used in a first zone extending from the lens edge nearest to the nose of the wearer, when the lens is in use, to a position corresponding to the centre of the pupil, and a darker tint being used in a second zone extending over the remaining lens area.

Abstract: A eye exercising process and apparatus for an individual focusing on a viewable object, such as a computer monitor or television screen, and causing the object through means to slowly reciprocate or oscillate, generally at a predetermined rate, whereby the viewer's eye muscles are exercised without visual distraction.

Abstract: Accommodation training apparatus is modified to include electroencephalography apparatus for monitoring the patient's brainwaves. This permits a patient to be trained to enter, and to remain in, the alpha state, even with the eyes open and with something to look at.A two-dimensional CCD matrix is used to receive reflected-back radiation from the eye. A computer is connected to the matrix and permits the patient to be trained for correction of conditions such as strabismus, nystagmus and eccentric fixation by identifying whether the patient's eye is moving or whether the patient's state of accommodation is changing.An LCD matrix is used to present variable visual information to the patient's eye. This facilitates training the patient for dichotic learning.Advantageously, electromyography apparatus is used to monitor the tension of one of the patient's muscles, advantageously the frontalis muscle.

Abstract: A vision training system according to the present invention is computer based and is self-advancing and self-directed. The system is operable in two modes, a diagnostic mode and a therapeutic exercise mode. Therapeutic exercises are automatically tailored for a subject based upon the subject's test results in the diagnostic mode. The system has particular application for subjects who suffer from near point visual stress, but is not limited thereto.

Abstract: A device for inducing saccadic eye movement in a subject utilizing a source of power which activates a multiplicity of visual signaling elements. The visual signaling elements are mounted in a structure such that the elements are placed at a certain level and angle relative to the eye or eyes of the subject. The visual signaling elements are sequentially activated in a back and forth manner.

Abstract: An improved vision tester apparatus and method are disclosed for use in conducting optometric examinations of patients who use video display terminals (VDTs). Specifically, the tester simulates images that are displayed to the patient by a typical VDT, so as to facilitate prescribing corrective lenses that will perform well for the patient when used with an actual VDT. The tester (10) includes a flat-panel electroluminescent light source (32) for illuminating a screen (14) without hot spots. The screen includes a colored ink layer (78,80,82) and an opaque ink mask (70) for forming pixel-like light elements (24). Lensing structures (52,56,58,60) degrade the image such that each light element exhibits a generally Gaussian light amplitude curve (FIG. 5B) characteristic of a pixel of an actual VDT. A rechargeable battery (34) coupled to a inverter circuit (30) provide portable power for the EL panel to complete a compact, portable tester.

Abstract: A voluntary control, intended to obtain an increase in retinal reflection, is carried out using an auditory biofeedback technique based on the measurement of retinal reflection, for the purpose of achieving an improvement in visual perception in its principal functions; the method includes the following phases:periodic measurement of the retinal reflection and of its variations, independently of factors concerning ocular optics;production of a tone representative of such measurements, which informs the patient as to the condition and as to the variations of his own retinal reflection;instruction on voluntarily increasing the retinal reflection by means of the voluntary control of the biofeedback tone.

Abstract: A vision training device, useful for improving hand-eye coordination activities, takes the form of eyewear having two red colored, translucent lenses, each lens containing a clear target sight positioned and dimensioned to allow a trainee to focus the image of an object onto the foveal vision areas of his eyes through the apertures while simultaneously stimulating the rod vision of the eye by exposure to light in the red spectrum.

Abstract: Visual-perceptual, visual-motor, and cognitive training exercises on scanning boards that are large enough to involve visual scanning and tracking sufficient for head turning and full visual field awareness as required for integrating stimuli from the environment. The boards vary in design incorporating perceptual and cognitive subskills which may be modified to all levels of ability. Specifically, the boards are used with clients in occupational therapy who have visual-perceptual, and visual-motor deficits, i.e., due to cerebral vascular accident, head injury, ocular-motor impairments, and other visual deficits, as well as for special education teachers for instruction of students with learning disabilities impaired by perceptual deficits, cerebral palsy, etc. The boards are coated with a non-glare plastic covering and may be drawn on with various colored water-base, odorless, non-toxic pens, as the boards may be wiped clean and ready to be re-used indefinitely.

Abstract: An ophthalmic apparatus includes a lens having a diameter greater than the distance between the pupils of the eyes of a user to be tested, adapted to be disposed in front of the eyes, a first visual target, including a visual target portion and a surrounding field of view defining portion, disposed at or near a focal plane of the lens, and a light source for illuminating the visual target portion and the surrounding field of view defining portion.

Abstract: A method for testing and treating visual dysfunctions (for example amblyopia) includes steps of providing an interactive visual game that presents to the patient a visual task, the visual game employing images scaled to the threshold visual parameter or parameters of the patient, and presenting a nonvisual reward to the patient for successful completion of the task. Also, apparatus for treating visual dysfunctions in a patient includes means for presenting an image to the patient, the image presenting a visual task to the patient, means for scaling the image to about the patient's threshold value for a visual parameter or parameters, means for providing an interaction between the patient and the image, and means for providing a reward for successful completion of the task.

Abstract: An optical instrument for use in conducting optometric examinations which generates an alphanumeric type display simulating the optical features of displays provided by video display terminals. The instrument comprises a light source and a multi-layered screen through which light from the source may be transmitted. The screen employs light from the source in forming characters which are comprised of pixel-like light elements similar to those making up VDT generated characters. Further, the screen is operative for degrading the image quality of the characters by transforming the light elements into Gaussian type spatial profiles typical of the pixels generated by VDTs.

Abstract: An optical system which contains multiple images comprised of two or more images at varying focal distances, which when viewed consecutively and in repetition will exercise the ciliary muscle of the eyes. The optical system may have its own power to illuminate said images. The shifting of conditions of the viewer to alternate the viewing of one image and then the other, may involve the physical movement of the user's head, the system may contain a motor coupled to rotate said system, or the configuration of the lighting source(s) shall illuminate one image and then another. The system may include a clock-timer and control of the variable speed of illumination between one optical image to another. The system may include a sound alarm to remind the viewer to utilize the holographic system.

Abstract: A training system for rehabilitation of hemianopsia patients, including a first training device adapted to be placed before the eyes of a hemianopsia patient during a first phase of training, said first training device having blocking means for substantially blocking the passing of light therethrough, and transmitting means for substantially passing light therethrough, said blocking means being disposed in the part of the field of vision outside of the scotoma, and said transmitting means being disposed in the part of the field of vision in which there is no longer any vision due to the scotoma and a second training device adapted to be placed before the eyes of a hemianopsia patient during a second phase of training, said second training device comprising disposed before each eye means for transmitting light, the means for transmitting light before one of the eyes having applied thereto an indicator mark ranging from the boundary of the scotoma and the functional visual field toward the edge of the scotoma t

Abstract: A method of increasing the reliability of visual field testing by preventing intermittent darkening of the visual field during visual field analysis and that is particularly useful in applications of bowl perimetry comprises occluding one eye of a subject, measuring the visual field perception of the unoccluded eye of the subject, while providing sufficient illumination to the occluded eye to eliminate intermittent darkening of the visual field perceived by the unoccluded eye, and while reducing visual acuity in the occluded eye to a level that prevents interference with the visual field testing of the unoccluded eye.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for directing flashes of light into the eyes of a user. LED's 17 are mounted in the eyepieces of goggles 3 or spectacles 43 to face the eyes of a wearer. The goggles 3 or spectacles 43 are opaque and are provided with opaque flanges 9 to avoid ambient light reaching the eyes of a wearer. The frequency and brightness of the flashes is variable. The device is useful in the treatment of migraine, pre-menstrual syndrome, insomnia and nervous tension. Alternatives are disclosed using remote light sources 51 and optic fibres 53 or mirrors 57, mechanical or electro-optic shutters 59, 61, and arrangements using a common light source 51 for both eyes.

Abstract: A vision training system according to the present invention is computer based and is self-advancing and self-directed. The system is operable in two modes, a diagnostic mode and a therapeutic exercise mode. Therapeutic exercises are automatically tailored for a subject based upon the subject's test results in the diagnostic mode. The system has particular application for subjects who suffer from near point visual stress, but is not limited thereto.

Abstract: A vision test apparatus illuminated by internal light source generating a constant, predetermined light intensity in the vicinity of the eye chart. The unit employs at least one photocell to monitor the light intensity near the eye chart and thereby adjust the amount of light generated by the light source to provide a constant level of illumination near the eye chart.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving visual acuity during sports activities includes the steps of increasing the strength of the image on the brain half corresponding to the weaker eye of a person by substantially occluding ambient light to the dominant eye of the person for a period of approximately one to two weeks for at least one hour per day; forcing both brain halves to operate at substantially equal visual levels in coordination with each other by wearing eyeglasses having inner opaque sections adjacent the nose bridge so as to limit overlapping vision of the two eyes to a small overlapping area, the inner opaque areas being inwardly and downwardly inclined at an angle of approximately 20 with respect to a nasal axis extending through the nose of the person; and forcing both brain halves to operate independently of each other at substantially equal visual levels by increasing the areas of the opaque sections so as to eliminate the overlapping area, which forces each brain half to process the visual inf

Abstract: A holographic system which contains a multiple image hologram comprised of two or more images at varying focal distances, which when viewed consecutively and in repetition will exercise the ciliary muscle of the eyes. The holographic system will have its own power to illuminate said hologram. The shifting of conditions of the viewer to alternate the viewing of one image and then the other, may involve the physical movement of the user's head, or the system may contain a motor coupled to rotate said system. The system may include a clock-timer to activate said motor, and for periodically illuminating the hologram. The system may include a sound alarm to remind the viewer to utilize the holographic system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for monitoring and training eye position under clinical conditions are provided in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. An infrared optometer is employed to measure a patient's corneal and retinal reflection and outputs therefrom are employed to generate tone information and viewable patient information indicative of eye position and the state of focus. A patient is trained until a predetermined proficiency in the voluntary control of eye position is achieved.

Abstract: An optical instrument for use in conducting optometric examinations which generates an alphanumeric type display simulating the optical features of displays provided by video display terminals. The instrument comprises a light source and a multi-layered screen through which light from the source may be transmitted. The screen employs light from the source in forming characters which are comprised of pixel-like light elements similar to those making up VDT generated characters. Further, the screen is operative for degrading the image quality of the characters by transforming the light elements into Gaussian type spatial profiles typical of the pixels generated by VDTs.

Abstract: A method and optometer apparatus for measuring the accommodative state of eye of a subject is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the optometer apparatus includes: a pinhole aperture plate having a center and a plurality of apertures in the pinhole aperture plate for viewing by the subject's eye; a positive lens disposed near the pinhole aperture plate and having an optical axis coincident with the center of the pinhole aperture plate; and scaled means inclined away from the positive lens for indicating to the subject the accommodative state of the subject's eye in diopters.

Abstract: Patients suffering severe retinal damage and focusing impairment are examined in an area having actual or simulated outdoor illumination by viewing a large graphic having colored familiar objects, number and letters of graduated incremental sizes thereon with colored backgrounds either darker or lighter than the objects, numbers and letters involved which the patient points out to ascertain the patient's estimated optimal correction for distance vision. Based on said estimate, the patient is provided with a combination of a soft contact lens either between the estimated correction and a correction obtained by traditional testing methods using black letters against a white background in a darkened room, or the best correction obtained by the examination with the large graphic and a plurality of spectacle type lenses in incremental diopter corrections of two or three diopters for training purposes.

Abstract: A spectacle for promoting even sight strength in the two eyes comprises a frame, two viewing lenses and a rectangular plate attachment to the frame. The rectangular plate has a bar and a ball affixed to the bar, mounted within a socket located in the frame which can deflect the rectangular plate toward the left lens or the right lens.

Abstract: A hologram comprised of two or more opticals (10) which communicate images of depth-of-field; a light source (11) to illuminate said opticals.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, the optometer apparatus includes: a pinhole apure plate having first and second horizontally positioned apertures disposed on opposite sides of a first optical axis; first and second orthogonally-oriented polarizing filters respectively covering the first and second horizontally positioned apertures; a positive lens having an optical axis on the first optical axis and being positioned at a distance of approximately one focal length from the pinhole aperture plate; a lens system having an optical axis on the first optical axis; a slit aperture plate having a vertical slit and being disposed on the first optical axis and between the positive lens and the lens system; third and fourth vertically positioned polarizing filters selectively disposed adjacent to the slit aperture plate to divide the slit vertically, the third and fourth polarizing filters being respectively oriented parallel to the first and second polarizing filters; a monochromatic light source for propagating light along

Abstract: A light stimulator device which tests and therapeutically stimulates the neurovisual system by visible light. It utilizes a balanced spectrum, magnetic, plasmatic light source (32) with different color filters (20) and different apertures (18) interposed between the light source and the subject's eyes. The flash rate of the light source (32) can be continuously varied (24) to provide for diagnostic CFF testing.

Abstract: For three-dimensional viewing of television and movies, in the format wherein left-eye and right-eye images are presented alternately on the screen, a pair of 3-D viewing glasses have correspondingly alternating on/off left and right lenses. The lenses each contain liquid crystal material which varies from a nearly totally obscured state by scattering, to nearly 100% transmission, as controlled by a signal from the television or movie projector. In this way, in instances when the left-eye image is presented on the screen, the left-eye lens is "ON" so that the viewer sees the image with his left eye, and when the right-eye image is presented on the screen, the right-eye lens is "ON" to enable the viewer to see that image with his right eye. The two images on the screen are taken from different photographic angles, and the images alternate at a sufficient frequency for the viewer to perceive that both images are occurring at once, and he sees them as a composite three-dimensional image.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved apparatus for treatment of amblyopia and similar eye conditions through use of a solitary visual target maintained at a level of minimal discernible size. The improved apparatus provides instantaneous electronic switching between targets of different acuity demand levels, compact optics requiring limited case size, and automatic scoring of correct responses.

Abstract: Seeing of objects is performed through an optical system with a stationary main optical axis with deviating an output image of the system away of the stationary main optical axis by jump-like movements with randomly distributed time intervals.

Abstract: A device and method for relieving eye strain which uses a head band and light which is switched on and off when the user's eyelids are shut. The user controls the frequency with which the light is turned on and off by means of a hand-held battery pack and switch. On-and-off switching is continued in the absence of ambient light until the user feels sufficient relief.

Abstract: An eye exercising device is disclosed having a positioning product to position the eye along an optical axis, which defines a range of accommodation for the eye. The range of accommodation is bounded by a proximal and a distal limit. An object is movable along the optical path and a displacement device is provided to displace continuously the object along the optical path from a first location on one side of a given one of the limits to a second location on another side of the given limit opposite the first location.

Abstract: A vision and hand/eye coordination testing machine includes a front panel sub-divided into a grid-like array. Each array position is either a lamp position or a dummy position, the two being visually indistinguishable. Panel lamps are illuminated in one of three alternative modes, namely: a pursuit mode wherein lamps are illuminated according to a prescribed continuous pattern and the subject must follow the pattern by moving his/her eyes; a saccadic hand/eye mode wherein the subject focuses on a centrally located alternating fixator lamp and actuates a switch at array lamp positions; and a second hand/eye mode, similar to the saccadic mode, but the fixator lamp remains off. Timely switch actuations are counted and actuate respective indicators in a remote monitoring unit. In both hand/eye modes the lamps are illuminated in a random or other sequence unrelated to lamp position.

Abstract: A unique technical process which must be taught is provided for quickly, simply, objectively and accurately measuring an individual's ocular tracking ability. The technique includes a process for measuring only the smooth movement of the eye, and both eyes together, in a neurologically oriented eye examination for educational diagnosis and evaluation. As a result of the examination one may prescribe motor-perceptual training. The most simple economical instrument providing instantaneously usable scores is described which is an improvement for this useful purpose and it overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

Abstract: An amusement device, useful for ocular as well as hand-eye coordination exercises, takes the form of a rod with two removable end balls and a positionally adjustable intermediate ball. The rod is manipulated, twirled and juggled by means of two hand-held juggling wands in a variety of ways to effect different exercises. The balls are visibly distinguishable, preferably by color, to permit a user to focus on a specific ball while the rod is twirling and to catch the rod with that ball in a prescribed orientation. The adjustable ball permits selective adjustment of the center of gravity of the rod and correspondingly adjusts the rod trajectory so as to increase and decrease the difficulty of each exercise. One or more individuals can use the juggled rod, each holding a pair of juggling wands.