Eye Or Testing By Visual Stimulus Patents (Class 600/558)
  • Patent number: 7486988
    Abstract: Methods and systems for modifying or enhancing vision are described. In exemplary embodiments, neural or neuromuscular activity is analyzed to determine a focus or other quality of a visual input, and the focus or quality information used as a basis for controlling an adjustable lens system or optical system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Searete LLC
    Inventors: Eleanor V. Goodall, W. Daniel Hillis, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K. Y. Jung, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090012419
    Abstract: A system and method for assessing sexual attention of a test subject comprising: a computer readable medium; a display; an eye-tracking sensor; a set of display sets where each display set has images representing individuals having a plurality of different genders and age groups wherein each display set contains images having a unique combination of gender and age group; and; a set of computer readable instructions embodied in said computer readable medium for display said display sets on said display, determining the test subject's eye fixation time for each image, determining the test subjects saccade time for each displayed image, determining a gaze score according to said fixation time and said saccade time, and determining a gaze score for each combination of gender and age group.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Geoffrey R. McKee
  • Patent number: 7474775
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automated method which can detect images containing red lesions. First, each image is preprocessed; next, candidate objects that may represent red-lesions are extracted; and in the final stage the probability for each candidate to represent a red-lesion is estimated using a classifier and a large set of specifically designed features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: University of Iowa Research Foundation
    Inventors: Michael D. Abràmoff, Bram van Ginneken, Meindert Niemeijer
  • Patent number: 7473231
    Abstract: An applanation tonometer and its operation involve an actuator pressing a prism with a variable and determinable force against a cornea of an eye while a source directs light to reflect from an applanation surface of the prism to a detector producing a detected light signal received by a microprocessor. Such a tonometer produces a diastolic phase signal and a systolic phase signal representing the complete intra ocular pressure experience of the eye being examined. The signal information allows combined diastolic and systolic IOP to be determined in several corroborating ways and also yields measures of ocular blood flow and tonography.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventors: Francis Y. Falck, Jr., Robert W. Falck
  • Publication number: 20090005702
    Abstract: Methods for diagnosis and treatment are provided for a patient having processing difficulties, integration problems, imbalances or abnormal postures. In one embodiment, a patient is identified having retinal signal problems creating at least one negative medical condition. Then, at least a portion of the patient's lacrimal drainage system is blocked or altered. Further, as a result of the diagnosis and treatment, the patient achieves improved retinal signal processing and at least one of the patient's negative medical conditions is improved. Other embodiments include using in combination the Z-Bell Test and/or light blocking or altering devices for diagnosis and treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Deborah Zelinsky
  • Publication number: 20090002632
    Abstract: A method for measuring the dynamic behavior of an optical system is aimed at rendering the dynamic behavior of the optical system objectively detectable. To this end, the optical system to be measured is stimulated by stimuli whereby causing it to react, and the reaction is detected by means of a wave front analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Cart Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Hartmut Vogelsang, Michael Bergt, Manfred Dick, Holger Maeusezahl, Eckhard Schroeder
  • Patent number: 7469159
    Abstract: Neurovascular uncoupling that causes fMRI data to underestimate viable neuronal activity in the brain is detected and indicated to assist in pre-surgical planning. Tasks associated with the cortical region in question are performed while the fMRI measurement of brain activity is measured and the same tasks are performed while task performance is measured directly. Neurovascular uncoupling is detected and indicated by comparing the results of fMRI measurement and direct measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: The MCW Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Edgar DeYoe, John L. Ulmer
  • Publication number: 20080312552
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the detection of statistically significant changes in tissue characteristics within the eye. Change in a tissue characteristic is statistically significant when the magnitude of the change exceeds the test-retest measurement variability. One embodiment of the present invention analyzes the data using more than one statistic in order to capture global, regional, and/or local changes that are essential to clinical interpretation of changes in a tissue characteristic. In one embodiment of the present invention, the tissue characteristic tested is RNFL thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: Qienyuan Zhou, Pak-Wai Lo, Koenraad A. Vermeer
  • Publication number: 20080294066
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electrode array device for simultaneously detecting electrical potentials at five or more locations on the anterior surface of an eye. The device comprises a dielectric lens substrate having a concave inner surface conforming to the anterior surface of the eye, and at least five recording electrodes positioned in relation to the inner surface of the lens substrate so as to make electrical connection with the anterior surface of the eye when the lens substrate is placed on the anterior surface of eye. Each recording electrode is in electrically conductive communication with a corresponding conductive contact, there being one conductive contact for each recording electrode. Each conductive contact is adapted for operable connection to signal processor, and each conductive contact is electrically insulated from the anterior surface of the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: John R. Hetling, Tamas Ban, Safa Rahmani
  • Publication number: 20080287821
    Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, computer program products, devices and systems are described that carry out accepting at least one user-health test function output at least partly based on an interaction between at least one user and at least one device-operable application; accepting brain activity measurement data proximate to the interaction; associating the at least one user-health test function output with the brain activity measurement data; and presenting the at least one user-health test function output and the brain activity measurement data at least partly based on the associating the at least one user-health test function output with the brain activity measurement data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Edward K.Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud
  • Patent number: 7452336
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for rehabilitating patients and assessing tactile skills in response to visual stimuli generated from a portable neural training device. The device generates a visual output to elicit tactile response (hand movement) from the patient. The device preferably automatically adjusts the difficulty of a session in response to demonstrated patient skill level (i.e. combination of correct responses, speed, and accuracy of responses). The invention evaluates and challenges the patient to control tactile response, overcome visual perception difficulties, or practice simple multi-tasking or reasoning skills. The invention also provides information which is valuable to those administering the rehabilitation program or assessing patient skill and/or progress. By way of example the neural training device is described with an embodiment having discrete fixed keys and an embodiment utilizing a touch sensitive display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Interactive Neuro Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7438418
    Abstract: A method for determining mental proficiency level by monitoring point of gaze, pupillary movement, pupillary response, and other parameters in a subject performing a task, collecting the data in a database, analyzing the data in the database, and assigning the subject to a score indicating the subject's particular mental proficiency level in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: EyeTracking, Inc.
    Inventor: Sandra Peery Marshall
  • Patent number: 7435227
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for generating an indication of a level of vigilance of an individual using a gaze acquisition unit providing a gaze data stream of at least one eye of the individual, a processing unit receiving the gaze data stream and determining a level of vigilance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Biocognisafe (BCS) Technologies
    Inventor: Bruno Farbos
  • Publication number: 20080243005
    Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, computer program products, devices and systems are described that carry out obtaining user-health data; selecting at least one user-health test function at least partly based on the user-health data; and applying the at least one user-health test function to at least one interaction between at least one user and at least one device-implemented application whose primary function is different from symptom detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Edward K.Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud
  • Publication number: 20080234601
    Abstract: A method for mental health diagnosis and treatment using visual stimulation techniques. Eye to eye contact, face to face contact, looking up, looking to the side, back turned, finger movement in front of the eyes, and viewing multiple images of the patient are employed in the method. The method is used with a therapist or by a patient using a self help kit. Computer and Web camera techniques are used with programs for use with a therapist and a self help program.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: David Wexelman
  • Publication number: 20080161716
    Abstract: A device and method are presented for drug-free, non-invasive, modulation of a size of a patient's pupil. The invention utilizes application of an external electric and/or magnetic field of desired properties to the patient's iris to thereby effect stimulation or neutralization of synapses and thus temporarily inducing mydriasis or miosis effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: A.T.I. - ADVANCED MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Abraham Livne, Ilan Ron
  • Patent number: 7384399
    Abstract: A system for testing a subject's cognition and motor timing includes an actuator, a sensor and a computer. The actuator is configured to present to the subject multiple stimuli, including predictable stimuli and non-predictable (e.g., random or pseudo-random) stimuli. The sensor generates sensor signals associated with the subject responding to the stimuli. The computer stores timing values associated with the sensor signals for a plurality of the sequences of stimuli, and analyzes the timing values to determine if the subject has an anticipatory timing impairment. The system may also be configured to provide feedback signals to the user, in which case the system also functions as cognition timing and motor training system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventor: Jamshid Ghajar
  • Patent number: 7376459
    Abstract: A system and method of deception detection is disclosed wherein T trials are combined with P and I trials. Denoted as the complex trial (CT) protocol, in one embodiment, the beginning of each trial is indicated by the onset of a stimulus which is either a P or I, which remains on the display terminal for particular random (unpredictable to the subject) time period. At the expiration of the period, the stimulus remains on the screen, but is altered/augmented in some way, such as by color change. The subject has been instructed that if the color change is to green, for example, the trial is a target trial, and the subject should make a “yes” (target) response. If the color is anything else (e.g., red, blue, yellow), the subject must give a “no” (non-target) response. Accordingly, in the CT protocol, the subject must attend even more intensely than in prior 3-stimulus protocols to the probe-irrelevant attribute (i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: J. Peter Rosenfeld
  • Publication number: 20080103409
    Abstract: A system and method defining a new approach to visual information cognition, and methodology for teaching individuals to use this information to attain vision and increase brain usage by bypassing the sensory organs typically used like eyesight for processing this information. The system and method enables individuals to develop a part of the brain which is typically underutilized with resultant development of new channels to attain vision, while simultaneously potentially increasing IQ and improving memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Komissarov
  • Patent number: 7347694
    Abstract: A screening evaluation tool of the present invention provides instructions and mechanisms to probe areas of vision (related to learning). These areas include eye movements used during reading, visual imagery of mental pictorial images generated by viewing, visual recall of mental pictorial images maintained over time, mental manipulation of pictorial images transformed spatially and visual manipulation of mental pictorial images viewed from multiple spatial perspectives. The screening may be conducted remotely from any physical location via the Internet or other network. In addition, the present invention may be utilized for performing therapy, screening tests or more formal evaluations over the Internet. The screening tests and evaluations may be of multiple varieties and are made available for the purpose of further exploring or ruling out the need for further exploration of areas of dysfunction that relate to reduced performance in learning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Oculearn, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald M. Berger, Kevin Luddy
  • Patent number: 7344251
    Abstract: A method for determining mental alertness level by monitoring point of gaze, pupillary movement, pupillary response, and other parameters in a subject performing a task, collecting the data in a database, analyzing the data in the database, and assigning the subject to a score indicating the subject's particular mental alertness level in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: EyeTracking, Inc.
    Inventor: Sandra Peery Marshall
  • Patent number: 7338455
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for diagnosing schizophrenia, schizophrenia disorder subgroup, or predisposition thereto in a test subject is disclosed. The method includes the steps of determining an interhemispheric switch rate of the test subject. In one embodiment, the interhemispheric switch rate of the test subject is under conditions of increasing rate of dichoptic reversal, and comparing the switch rate with a corresponding reference switch rate to diagnose presence or absence of schizophrenia, a schizophrenic disorder subgroup, or predisposition thereto. In a preferred embodiment, the interhemispheric switch rate is determined by measuring the rate of binocular rivalry in the test subject. Also disclosed is use of a diagnostic method in genetic linkage studies for the identification of the molecular defect(s) underlying schizophrenia, and for the identification of compounds which may alleviate the disorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: The University of Queensland
    Inventors: Keith D. White, John M. Kuldau, Christiana M. Leonard, John Douglas Pettigrew
  • Patent number: 7331929
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a method and system for using gaze detection to improve information display in a healthcare environment. Certain embodiments of a system include an eyewear headset for detecting a location of a user's gaze and a display for displaying information. Information on the display, such as images and/or data, is customized for the user based on the user's gaze. In an embodiment, the eyewear headset viewer projects information into the user's oculars for an individual information display. The system may also include a conflict resolution module for determining priority and control of the display among a plurality of users. In an embodiment, a function at the display may be triggered using a voice command, a gesture, and/or a gaze, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mark M. Morita, Prakash Mahesh, Thomas A. Gentles
  • Patent number: 7309315
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and computer program product is presented to address early visual-sensory motor perception of a subject, where the method comprising the steps of: (1) controlling photic energetic parameters and/or photic perceptual attributes to trigger pre-attentive cuing or increase reactivity in magnocellular activity towards transient visual stimuli of the subject; and (2) generating a optical field comprising optical events based on said photic energetic parameters and said photic perceptual attributes, wherein said optical field transforms into a simple optical flow in the perceptual visual field of said subject. The photic energetic parameters may comprise light array energetic features, including one or more of wavelength, amplitude, intensity, phase, polarization, coherence, hue, brightness, and saturation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Epoch Innovations, Ltd.
    Inventors: Saul Kullok, Jose R. Kullok
  • Patent number: 7295124
    Abstract: A response measuring system for measuring the time required for a user or subject to respond to a prompting event includes a controller or computer connected to a plurality of annunciator driving outputs and a plurality of sensor input receivers. Methods of using the response measuring system in diagnoses and prognosis of injury, disease, and disorders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Diego Guillen
  • Patent number: 7285099
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for rotation test stimulus and analysis methods overcome many of the limitations of traditional clinical tests of peripheral vestibular function. An embodiment includes a rotational stimuli applied to the rotational motion for testing that includes two separate components, a bias component and a probe component. The bias component for rotational motion is designed to temporarily turn off vestibular responses in one ear while the responsiveness in the opposite ear is simultaneously evaluated using the probe component of the stimulus. Responses from application of these stimuli are analyzed by isolating and separating the bias response from the probe response. The bias and probe component responses are parameterized by applying curve fits of mathematical functions to the isolated bias and probe component responses. These parameters characterize the patient's vestibular function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Oregon Health & Science University
    Inventor: Robert J. Peterka
  • Patent number: 7267439
    Abstract: An optometric apparatus and an optometric method includes the steps of acquiring subject's attributes and an orientation selected by the subject on an astigmatic axis determination chart displayed on the computer screen, displaying vision measurement charts in the acquired orientation and the orientation perpendicular thereto to acquire visual recognition limits selected by the subject, calculating far point distances based on the acquired visual recognition limits and the acquired subject's attributes, and calculating a refractive power based on the acquired orientation and the calculated two far point distances. The far point distance is calculated using a neural network that has been determined by a number of subjects in advance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Vision Optic Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akio Toshima, Takehiko Yoshida
  • Patent number: 7264595
    Abstract: Method and system for detection and treatment of visual attention deficit is suggested. The method is based on exposing a patient to a visual display, capable to generate various images suitable for use as stimuli and to run the stimuli with a required frequency in front of the patient. Following the training program, the patient's performance becomes considerably improved both in terms of display test and in daily reading tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Disyvisi Ltd.
    Inventor: Oren Lamm
  • Publication number: 20070197932
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for detecting and evaluating retinal affecting neurodegenerative diseases. A plurality of selected retinal parameters are measured generating an eyeprint signature for a subject. The eyeprint signature can be used to evaluate whether the subject is suffering from a retinal affecting neurodegenerative disease, to monitoring the progression of the neurodegenerative disease, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of a treatment for the neurodegenerative disease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventors: Gilbert T. Feke, Fatmire Berisha
  • Patent number: 7224285
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for gas detection uses a sensor such as an electrochemical (EC) cell and includes a feedback control loop to control a pump to establish a first predetermined gas flow rate to the EC cell. The concentration of the gas at the first predetermined flow rate is measured. If the detected concentration exceeds a predetermined Alert value at the first flow rate an Initial Warning without remedial action is generated, and, the system then changes the gas flow rate before an Alarm is indicated. An Alarm is signaled only if the system verifies the first measurement. Preferably the first flow rate is set to optimize the measurement accuracy of the EC cell being used, and the second flow rate is lower than the first. Verification of an Alarm at the first flow rate may be conducted quickly by a quick-reaction process. The controller may periodically cycle the flow rates between the first and second rates for better accuracy and faster verification times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Honeywell Analytics, Ltd.
    Inventors: John A. Tiwet, Cary S. Stone, Richard A. Gorny, John Chapples, Ian Robins
  • Patent number: 7222961
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting a functional signal in retinal images. An optical imaging device comprises a stimulation light source, an interrogating light source, and a detector. The retina is stimulated by the stimulation light source. The retina is then illuminated by an interrogation light, and the reflected intensity from the retina is measured at an interrogating spectral band that indicates the state of hemoglobin saturation before and after visual stimulation. The optical changes that result from retinal neuronal activity are captured by the detector. The signal representing the state of hemoglobin saturation before and after visual stimulation is isolated. In an embodiment of the present invention, this signal is isolated using principle components analysis (PCA).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Kestrel Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Soliz, Eduardo S. Barriga
  • Patent number: 7211050
    Abstract: Treatment apparatus and method for the enhancement of neurophysiological processes of a patient's visual system utilizes a computer generated display that provides a patient simultaneously with passive visual stimulation images and visual cognitive exercises. The stimulation images include moving elements having edges or points of contrast. The exercises include visual and phonological elements. The invention is used to treat reading, writing and speech disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as having broader applications for example in sports sciences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: Dimitri Caplygin
  • Patent number: 7204590
    Abstract: A system and method allow for inducing and measuring a consensual pupillary response of a subject. The system includes an induction device and a measuring device, the induction device being structured to generate at least one stimuli and to expose a primary eye of the subject to the stimuli. The measuring device of the system includes a monitoring mechanism structured to allow a consensual pupillary response to be detected, and an analysis mechanism to interpret the detected consensual pupillary response. The measuring device may also include a recording device and a display device, to allow recording and displaying of the detected consensual pupillary response, respectively. The method includes exposing the primary eye of the subject to the stimuli, monitoring and detecting the consensual pupillary response in the secondary eye of the subject, and analyzing the detected consensual pupillary response. The method may also include recording and displaying the detected consensual pupillary response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Inventor: Andrew Lenoir
  • Patent number: 7202793
    Abstract: A device and method for monitoring a subject and providing feedback back to the subject that is pertinent to a behavior of the subject. The device includes a source of light having first and second wavelengths wherein the first wavelength does not equal the second wavelength; at least one image sensor producing a first signal indicative of reflected light having the first wavelength and a second signal indicative of reflected light having the second wavelength; a controller receiving the first and second signals and producing a third signal indicative of the first signal subtracted from the second signal; and an interface in communication with the controller providing informational content to the subject in response to the third signal, wherein the informational content is associated with a behavior of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Attention Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Grace, Ellen M. Ayoob
  • Patent number: 7169113
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for displaying viewer reactions to a display object. The display object is divided into a plurality of spatial regions, viewer reactions are collected to an exposure to the display object and correlated with the spatial regions, and the display object is displayed with an aspect of the display of each spatial region being a function of the viewer reactions for the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Hello-Hello, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Young
  • Patent number: 7166079
    Abstract: Systems and methods for observing and recording retinal irregularities are disclosed. A method according to the invention includes illuminating a viewing area with a steady light, illuminating the viewing area with a flash pattern, and enabling a user to observe, by looking at the illuminated viewing area, a visual representation of the existence of a retinal irregularity. The viewing area is illuminated with the steady light and flash pattern such that the user can identify in the viewing area a visual abnormality that is indicative of the retinal irregularity. The user can provide a description of the visual representation, which can be forwarded to a caregiver for analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Sensory Arts & Science, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Febbroriello, David M. Davis
  • Patent number: 7163513
    Abstract: A method for psychological testing of a subject is performed by (A) presenting a test by means of a testing means having output means (e.g. a computer monitor) and input means (e.g. a keyboard); and, (B) instructing the subject by displaying a simulation (as shown in the figure) of the test by means of the output means so that the subject can learn how to perform the test from the simulation. The test is therefore independent of the subject's language skills, or of verbal instructions provided by a supervisor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Cogstate, Ltd.
    Inventors: David Darby, Ashley Bush
  • Patent number: 7136492
    Abstract: A method for the visualization of the hearing capacity of a person. As a function of audiogram data, text is modified in any of several characteristics, including brightness, contrast, sharpness, and/or omission of letters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Phonak AG
    Inventor: Jonathan Möller
  • Patent number: 7115099
    Abstract: A method for diagnosis of a mood disorder or predisposition therefor in a test subject is disclosed. The method includes the steps of determining binocular rivalry rate in the test subject and comparing the binocular rivalry rate with a corresponding reference rivalry rate to diagnose presence or absence of the mood disorder or predisposition therefor. Also disclosed is use of the diagnostic method in genetic linkage studies for the identification of the molecular defect(s) underlying these disorders, and for the identification of compounds which may alleviate such disorders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: The University of Queensland
    Inventors: Steven Mark Miller, John Douglas Pettigrew
  • Patent number: 7110582
    Abstract: A method for identifying particular disorders of the eyes is disclosed. Initially, an image of the eyes in digital format is taken by a reflex photometer and the image provided to a computer programmed to run a plurality of algorithms that are associated with each type of disorder. Results of the algorithms are plotted in a format so that any of the eye disorders associated with the algorithms are readily apparent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Sam H. Hay
  • Patent number: 7084772
    Abstract: An estimated value of wakefulness is calculated from the ratio between the quantity of high frequency components and the quantity of low frequency components obtained by performing frequency transformation of vehicle displacements (S51). An imaginary deviation line is set between a lane marking and the vehicle according to the estimated value of wakefulness (S55, S59, S62, S66), and an alarm is issued when the vehicle deviates from the imaginary deviation line. Since the alarm is issued when the vehicle is at a predetermined distance from the lane marking, alarming can be performed at substantially constant timing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hajime Oyama
  • Patent number: 7084773
    Abstract: When a steering angle dakaku is equal to or smaller than ±15° (S22), the steering angle dakaku is integrated to calculate an integrated value dakaku_sum (S24). When the integrated value dakaku_sum is within a set range (S25, S26), a road-shape-based wakefulness correction coefficient R_hosei is set at 0.5 (S28). Any erroneous determination of wakefulness attributable to a road shape is prevented by correcting wakefulness H for evaluating wakefulness by decreasing it using the road-shape-based wakefulness correction coefficient R_hosei.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hajime Oyama
  • Patent number: 7034697
    Abstract: An awakening level estimation apparatus for vehicle has: a signal processing part; a frequency component amount calculation part for calculating an average value of the frequency component powers and calculating a maximum value of the frequency component powers; a correction factor calculation part for calculating a high frequency percentile value and calculating a low frequency percentile value and calculating a correction factor; an evaluation value calculation part for calculating an evaluation value; and a decision part for deciding an awakening level of a driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hajime Oyama
  • Patent number: 7011410
    Abstract: An apparatus consistent with the present invention comprises a sensor for receiving a signal representing eye tremor and a processor for monitoring eye tremor while receiving the signal. A method consistent with the present invention includes receiving a signal representing eye tremor, comparing the received signal representing eye tremor to at least one reference value, and classifying a patient's brain stem function using the comparison of the received signal representing eye tremor to at least one reference value. An embodiment consistent with the present invention includes an ocular micro tremor (OMT) sensor and associated signal processing hardware and software for clinical analyses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: EyeTect, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Ciaran Bolger, Steven W. Arms, Christopher P. Townsend, Kurt R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7004912
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a system generates a succession of selected visual perception task images for presentation to a person, and receives respective inputs from the person based on the person's perception of each image, wherein subsequently generated images are based at least in part on the person's perception of one or more previously presented images. The generation and modification of images based on the person's input is repeated until at least one characteristic of the person's visual perception capabilities is adequately evaluated, improved to a desired level, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: NeuroVision, Inc.
    Inventor: Uri Polat
  • Patent number: 7006863
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for simultaneously assessing the functional status of component parts of the nervous system by presenting sparse stimuli to one or more parts of the sensory nervous system. Sparse stimuli consist of temporal sequences of stimulus conditions presented against a baseline null stimulus condition, where the non-null stimulus condition, or conditions, are presented relatively infrequently. The low probability of encountering a stimulus differing from a baseline or null stimulus condition in sparse stimulus sequences insures that gain control mechanisms within the nervous system will increase the neural response magnitude and also bias the measured responses to those neurone populations having such gain controls. The consequently increased response amplitudes ensure more reliably recorded responses than are obtained with non-sparse stimuli.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: The Australian National University
    Inventors: Teddy Lee Maddess, Andrew Charles James
  • Patent number: 6988995
    Abstract: A system for the in vivo detection of the effects of AD in the interior of an eye. A scanning polarimeter, including a residual retardance canceling system and an improved anterior segment retardance compensator, produces an optical analysis signal representing the birefringence of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) structures of the eye. The birefringence data is more accurate because of compensation for anterior segment birefringence and residual birefringence of optical components, such as, for example, the beam splitters, lenses, scanners and retarders. An electrical analysis signal representing a large (20 by 40 degrees) retardance map is produced and evaluated by an artificial neural network to produce an analysis classification signal representing the contribution of Alzheimer's disease to the birefringence of the retinal layer corresponding to the relationship of the electrical analysis signal to an analysis signal database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.
    Inventors: Qienyuan Zhou, Michael J. Sinai, John C. Moore, William Wong
  • Patent number: 6986747
    Abstract: A method of measuring the stress or relaxation level of a mammal and a method of measuring the activity of the sympathetic nervous system of a mammal by measuring quantititative levels of deoxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin are disclosed. Preferably, the levels of deoxyhemoglobin and hemoglobin are measured by a noninvasive technique, such as spectroscopy. A method of changing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system of a mammal is also disclosed, wherein the method includes a step of administering an effective amount of sensory regimen to the mammal. The method is useful for humans who are operating vehicles or machinery, who are suffering from cardiovascular disease or related complications, who are pregnant, or who are preparing for sleep. In addition, a method of improving the complexion of the skin of a mammal is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies
    Inventors: Laura McCulloch, Benjamin Wiegand, Kathryn Dean, Neena Tierney, Nikiforos Kollias
  • Patent number: 6985079
    Abstract: A system is provided for testing and enhancing the alertness of operators who monitor video surveillance imagery. Alertness is tested by displaying any of a variety of visual elements on top of or near the video imagery, and receiving input from human operators in response to the visual elements, via one or more input devices. The system further allows for economic management of human operators by transmitting imagery from many video sources to any number of operators. Video feeds are automatically switched, via software, away from an operator who wishes to take a break or has poor alertness. In this fashion, the system maximizes operator vigilance while also maximizing workflow for all available operators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Magnetic Moments, LLC
    Inventors: Marco Pinter, Bradley E. Paden, Fiona M. Gaston
  • Patent number: RE39539
    Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring movement of a person's eye, e.g., to monitor drowsiness. The system includes a frame that is worn on a person's head, an array of emitters on the frame for directing light towards the person's eye, and an array of sensors on the frame for detecting light from the array of emitters. The sensors detect light that is reflected off of respective portions of the eye or its eyelid, thereby producing output signals indicating when the respective portions of the eye is covered by the eyelid. The emitters project a reference frame towards the eye, and a camera on the frame monitors movement of the eye relative to the reference frame. This movement may be correlated with the signals from the array of sensors and/or with signals from other sensors on the frame to monitor the person's level of drowsiness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: William C. Torch