Invention novelty: This invention is a device and optimized method for detecting the fixation of the eye on a target. It is an improvement for early detection of amblyopia in young children.
Value Proposition: The leading causes of preventable vision loss in children are amblyopia “lazy eye” and strabismus (misaligned eyes). These conditions have traditionally been difficult to detect in young children resulting in delayed detection until school age. Retinal birefringence scanning (RBS) is a method to detect eye fixation, eye misalignment and defocus. This method is ideal to investigate less cooperative subjects, including young children and infants at risk for developing amblyopia. However, RBS is dependent on corneal birefringence which varies widely from one eye to the next and can influence detection results. This invention is an improved device and method to reduce the variability among eyes and minimize the influence of corneal birefringence on analysis of eye fixation. Advantages of this invention include:
- The reliability of instruments using RBS is increased
- It can be used for early detection of amblyopia, which is important for treatment
- The detection results are self-normalizing for different fundus reflectivities, pupil sizes, varying light levels, or dust on the optics over time
Technical Details: Johns Hopkins researchers have been working to improve RBS for improved instrument reliability. This invention optimizes the parameters in present retinal birefringence scanning (RBS) apparatus. This new combination of apparatus and method made RBS independent of corneal birefringence. This apparatus and method include: an optical illumination system, an optical detection system, a signal processing system communicating with the optical detection system, and a signal analysis system.
Looking for Partners: To develop & commercialize the technology as a vision screener detection amblyopia.
Stage of Development: Prototype
Patent Status: Pending US Application US-2016-0038025
