A TELESCOPE TRAINING DEVICE

Abstract

The present invention relates to a telescope training device 100 configured to administer telescope vision training to a wearer donning the device 100. The device 100 comprises a mounting frame 101 configured with adjustable nose pads 101a and temple arms 101b, adapted to fit varying head sizes, a pair of telescopes 102 are disposed at a front portion of the mounting frame 101, designed to be aligned with eyes of the wearer to administer telescope vision training, a gaze detection unit 103 incorporated with the telescopes 102 to track eye movements of the wearer during the telescope vision training and an audio feedback unit 104 integrated with the mounting frame 101, to provide audio feedback and guidance to the wearer in the course of the telescope vision training.

Specification

Description:Page 1 of 19
FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
The Patents Rules, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10; rule 13)
Title of the invention: 'A TELESCOPE TRAINING DEVICE'
Applicant(s)
GD Goenka University, Sohna Road Gurugram, Haryana, India
PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the field of visions science. More particularly the present invention relates to a telescope training device to administer telescope vision training to a wearer, capable of imparting guided exercises to the wearer to help the wearer maintain a healthy eyesight and also improve upon conditions of low 5 vision.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Low vision is a significant visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected with standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. People with low vision may still have some usable vision but experience difficulties with daily tasks, such as 10 reading, recognizing faces, or seeing road signs, even with corrective lenses.
[003] The World Health Organization (WHO) generally defines low vision as visual acuity worse than 20/70 in the better eye, but better than total blindness (which is often classified as visual acuity worse than 20/400). People with low vision may benefit from vision rehabilitation services, special aids, and adaptive strategies, including 15 magnifying tools, screen readers, and enhanced lighting.
[004] Telescope training, also referred to as telescope vision training, is a specialized form of instruction designed to assist individuals with low vision, often guided by optometrists or vision therapists. This training enables those with significant visual impairments, such as macular degeneration or retinitis pigmentosa, to effectively use 20 low-vision telescopic devices. These devices help improve sight for specific activities, like reading, identifying objects, and navigating surroundings, enhancing patients' independence in everyday life.
[005] During telescope training, optometrists guide patients through a series of exercises that increase their comfort and skill with various telescopic aids. Patients 25 learn to optimize essential skills such as focusing, depth perception, and tracking. This training is usually part of a comprehensive low-vision rehabilitation program intended to enhance independence and quality of life by making visual tasks more manageable. Training typically begins with familiarizing the patient with different types of telescopic aids, which may include handheld or spectacle-mounted telescopes. 30 Patients are then taught to adjust these aids to view objects at varying distances and practice scanning and tracking techniques, which involve coordinated eye movements and positioning to follow moving or distant objects through the telescope lens.
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Additionally, adaptation exercises help users transition smoothly between normal and telescopic vision, creating a more natural viewing experience.
[006] By mastering these skills, telescope training can profoundly impact people with low vision, enabling them to undertake everyday tasks like recognizing faces, reading street signs, or watching performances with ease and enjoyment, ultimately enhancing 5 their confidence and ability to navigate the world around them.
[007] Telescope training can be life-changing for people with low vision, making everyday tasks like recognizing faces, reading street signs, or watching performances possible and more enjoyable.
[008] Traditional telescope vision training has several limitations that can hinder its 10 effectiveness for individuals with low vision. Firstly, in-office training typically requires frequent visits to optometrists, which can be inconvenient, particularly for patients with mobility issues. This approach offers little flexibility and often results in limited practice time due to the constraints of scheduled appointments.
[009] Additionally, printed materials and guides, such as instructional booklets or 15 pamphlets intended for home-based training, also present challenges. While these resources aim to assist users, they often lack real-time feedback, making it difficult for individuals to assess their own progress without guidance. The limited interactivity of these materials can further reduce their effectiveness in promoting effective learning. 20
[010] Video tutorials available online demonstrate various telescope techniques; however, this format primarily facilitates one-way communication and does not provide personalized feedback. The lack of engagement and interactivity in these tutorials makes it challenging to adapt to the individual needs of each patient.
[011] Telescope simulator software is another traditional training option, utilizing 25 computer programs to simulate the use of telescopes. While it can offer some insight, it often requires access to a computer, which may not be readily available to all users. Moreover, this software fails to provide the physical engagement that comes with using an actual telescope, resulting in limited feedback regarding gaze and technique.
[012] Finally, traditional optical devices, such as conventional magnifying glasses or 30 telescopes, offer fixed magnification without the adjustability needed for comprehensive training. These devices lack features specifically tailored for tracking, tracing, and focusing exercises, which are crucial for effective vision rehabilitation. Collectively, these limitations highlight the need for more innovative and accessible
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training methods that can better support individuals with low vision in their rehabilitation journey.
[013] The proposed telescope training device directly addresses these limitations by enabling low vision patients to train independently at home. With this device, they can receive real-time feedback and practice at their own pace, all while benefiting from a 5 guided, personalized approach to learning the necessary skills. This innovative solution aims to enhance accessibility, reduce dependency on in-office visits, and empower patients to master telescope techniques for greater independence in their daily lives.
[014] Thereby, the general purpose of the present invention is to provide an improved 10 combination of convenience and utility, to include the advantages of the prior art, and to overcome the drawbacks inherent therein.
[015] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[016] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. 15
[017] An object of the present invention is to develop a device which is capable of administering telescope vision training to a wearer to help the wearer maintain a healthy eyesight and also improve upon conditions of low vision.
[018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a means for tracking eye movements of the user during the course of telescope vision training. 20
[019] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a means for imparting continuous audio feedback to the wearer during the training to guide the user towards performing the training exercises in an appropriate manner.
[020] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed 25 description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[021] The present invention relates to a telescope training device configured to administer telescope vision training to a wearer donning the device. The device is capable of imparting guided training exercises to the wearer to help the wearer 30
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maintain a healthy eyesight and as well as improve upon conditions of low vision faced by the wearer.
[022] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the telescope training device to administer telescope vision training to a wearer, comprises a mounting frame configured with adjustable nose pads and temple arms, adapted to fit 5 varying head sizes. A pair of telescopes are disposed at a front portion of the mounting frame, designed to be aligned with eyes of the wearer to administer telescope vision training.
[023] Furthermore, a gaze detection unit incorporated with the telescopes to track eye movements of the wearer during the telescope vision training and an audio feedback 10 unit integrated with the mounting frame, to provide audio feedback and guidance to the wearer in the course of the telescope vision training.
[024] The present invention also relates to a method for administering telescope vision training to a wearer, comprising of steps imparting tracking training by having the wearer track a moving target with their eyes, conducting tracing training by prompting 15 the wearer to follow a pattern or shape with their eyes, providing localisation training by having the wearer locate targets in their peripheral vision, implementing focusing training by guiding the wearer to focus on a target at varying distances, continuously analysing a gaze of the wearer during the tracking training, the tracing training, the localisation training and the focusing training, and providing audio feedback to the 20 wearer in the form of guidance and cues during the training.
[025] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 25
[026] The advantages and features of the present aeration apparatus will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a telescope training device; and 30
Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for administering telescope vision training.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
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[027] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details.
[028] Reference herein to "one embodiment" or "another embodiment" means that a 5 particular feature, structure, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in a specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the diagrams 10 representing one or more embodiments of the invention do not inherently indicate any particular order nor imply any limitations in the invention.
[029] As used herein, the term "plurality? refers to the presence of more than one of the referenced item and the terms "a", "an", and "at least" do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item. 15
[030] The present invention relates to a telescope training device configured to administer telescope vision training to a wearer donning the device. The device is capable of imparting guided training exercises to the wearer to help the wearer maintain a healthy eyesight and as well as improve upon conditions of low vision faced by the wearer. 20
[031] The wearer refers to any person utilizing the device of the present invention to avail telescope vision training for maintaining a health eyesight or seeking improvement from a condition of low vision.
[032] The Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a telescope training device 100, the device 100 comprising a mounting frame 101 25 equipped with adjustable nose pads 101a and temple arms 101b to accommodate various head sizes. Positioned on the front portion of the frame are a pair of telescopes 102, carefully aligned with the wearer's eyes to facilitate effective telescope vision training. Integrated with these telescopes 102 is a gaze detection unit 103 that tracks the wearer's eye movements throughout the training process. Additionally, an audio 30 feedback unit 104 is built into the mounting frame 101, providing real-time audio feedback and guidance to the wearer, enhancing the effectiveness of the training experience.
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[033] The mounting frame 101 is intricately designed to support a pair of lenses and provide a comfortable fit on the face of the wearer, blending functionality with style. The structure begins with the frame front, which holds the lenses in place and spans across the bridge of the nose. This section includes the rims, which can fully encircle the lenses (full-rim), partially surround them (semi-rimless), or lack a surrounding rim 5 entirely (rimless). At the centre of the frame front is a bridge, connecting the lenses over the nose, available in various shapes like keyhole or saddle to enhance weight distribution and stability. The adjustable nose pads 101a, are attached to the inner side of the bridge, resting on the nose to improve comfort and help secure the frame.
[034] Extending from the frame front are the temples arms, which run alongside the 10 head and rest over the ears, ensuring the spectacles stay in place. Temple arm 101b feature hinges at the connection point with the frame front, allowing them to fold inward for convenient storage, with some models equipped with spring hinges for added flexibility. The ends of the temple arms 101b, referred to as temple tips, curve around the ears and are selected to be made of softer materials to enhance comfort and 15 grip. The mounting frame 101 can be crafted from various materials, including metals like titanium or stainless steel and plastics such as acetate or nylon, chosen for their strength, flexibility, weight, and aesthetic appeal. Overall, the design of mounting frame 101 combines durability, balance, and comfort to ensure they can be worn for extended periods without discomfort. 20
[035] The mounting frame 101 is crucial for providing stability and ensuring proper alignment during use, and it is typically constructed from a combination of materials selected for their strength, durability, and lightweight properties. In an embodiment of the present invention, aluminium is used for the frame due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for portable telescopes 102 that require easy transport 25 without compromising stability. Aluminum is also resistant to corrosion, which enhances the longevity of the telescope when exposed to various environmental conditions. In larger or more robust telescope models, steel may be employed for certain components of the mounting frame 101, providing additional strength and stability, particularly when the telescope is set up for extended periods. 30
[036] In addition to metals, high-strength plastics such as polycarbonate or ABS are often incorporated into the mounting frame 101 design. These materials offer significant weight savings and are resistant to impacts, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the frame during handling and transport. They can be
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moulded into intricate shapes, allowing for ergonomic designs that enhance user comfort. Furthermore, the mounting hardware, including clamps and brackets, typically utilizes metal alloys for their sturdiness, ensuring that the telescope remains securely in place during operation. The careful selection of these materials is vital for optimizing the performance and reliability of the mounting frame 101, ultimately 5 enhancing the overall experience for users, particularly those engaging in telescope vision training.
[037] The pair of telescopes 102 are installed with the mounting frame 101, positioned in front of the lenses and aligned with the eyes of the wearer. The telescopes 102 are attached in a manner to enable the wearer to look through the telescopes 102 with 10 convenience. To accomplish this, the telescopes 102 are positioned at a distance from the eyes of the wearer to cover a required portion of the field of view of the viewer.
[038] The telescopes 102 of the present invention, used for telescope vision training are constructed based on optical principles that allow them to magnify distant objects, making them more accessible to individuals with low vision. The fundamental 15 scientific principle behind telescopes 102 is refraction (for refracting telescopes 102) or reflection (for reflecting telescopes 102), both of which manipulate light to form magnified images.
[039] Each of the pair of telescopes 102 consists primarily of two types of lenses: the objective lens and the eyepiece lens. The objective lens is the larger lens positioned at 20 the front of the telescope, responsible for collecting light from distant objects. Its curvature plays a crucial role in determining the focal length, which is the distance at which light rays converge to create a clear image. At the rear end of the telescope lies the eyepiece lens, which serves to further magnify the image produced by the objective lens. The interplay between the objective and eyepiece lenses ultimately 25 establishes the telescope's overall magnification power, enabling users to see distant objects in greater detail.
[040] In an embodiment of the instant invention, the telescopes 102 have an adjustable zoom in the range of 2x to 10x. The zoom range of telescopes 102 refers to the extent to which the instrument can magnify distant objects, allowing users to observe them 30 in greater detail. In this context, a telescope with a zoom range of 2x to 10x can adjust its magnification level, enabling users to switch between two times and ten times magnification. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for various observational
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tasks, such as identifying objects in the distance, enhancing details for reading or studying, and facilitating accurate tracking of moving targets.
[041] At the lower end of the zoom range, the 2x magnification allows for a wider field of view, making it easier for users to locate objects and understand their spatial relationships. This level of magnification is especially useful for initial observations, 5 as it provides a broader perspective on the surrounding environment. As wearer adjusts to the higher end of the zoom range, reaching 10x magnification, they can observe fine details and nuances in distant objects that would be otherwise imperceptible at lower magnifications.
[042] The ability to smoothly transition between these magnification levels enhances 10 the overall user experience by allowing for both wide-angle views and close-up detail observations without the need to switch between different optical device 100s. This adaptability is particularly advantageous in training scenarios, where the wearer might need to engage with various distances and details while developing their visual skills. Overall, the zoom range of 2x to 10x in telescopes 102 provides a versatile tool for 15 the wearer, empowering them to tailor their viewing experience to their specific needs and preferences.
[043] The materials used in construction of the pair of telescopes 102 play a vital role in their performance, durability, and overall effectiveness. The optical components, specifically the objective and eyepiece lenses, are typically made from high-quality 20 optical glass, such as crown or flint glass, which possess low levels of optical distortion and specific refractive indices to ensure clear image quality. Anti-reflective coatings are often applied to these lenses to reduce light loss due to reflection, enhancing light transmission and improving the brightness and contrast of the observed image. 25
[044] The gaze detection unit 103 integrated into mounting frame 101 is a sophisticated system designed to track the eye movements of the wearer, to particularly impart telescope vision training. In an embodiment of the present invention, the gaze detection unit 103 comprises a pair of infrared cameras 103a strategically mounted on the mounting frame 101 of the device 100, positioned near 30 the lenses to minimize obstruction of the wearer's field of view. These cameras operate by emitting infrared light, which is reflected off the eye, allowing them to capture detailed images of the iris and pupil. Accompanying the cameras are infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that illuminate the eyes with infrared light, enhancing the
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contrast in the images captured and ensuring the system is unaffected by ambient lighting conditions.
[045] In an embodiment of the instant invention, the data collected by the infrared cameras 103a is processed by a compact microcontroller, which analyzes the images in real time to detect the position and movement of the pupils and the orientation of 5 the eyes. Advanced algorithms are employed to interpret this data, calculating the gaze vector and accounting for factors such as head movement and variations in eye shapes to ensure accurate tracking. The implementation can provide immediate feedback to the wearer, offering audio or visual cues based on their gaze direction. For instance, while training with the telescopes 102, the gaze detection unit 103 can alert the wearer 10 if they are misaligned, guiding them to adjust their focus effectively.
[046] The functioning of this gaze detection unit 103 begins with continuous eye tracking, as the infrared cameras 103a capture images of the eyes while the wearer looks around. The reflection of infrared illumination creates a distinct pattern that can be analysed. The microcontroller processes these images, using geometric modelling 15 and machine learning techniques to determine the wearer's gaze direction accurately. The real-time feedback provided by the system enhances learning, allowing users to develop better visual skills and coordination, especially beneficial for individuals with low vision. Additionally, this technology increases user independence, enabling practice with telescopes 102 or other visual aids at home, thereby boosting confidence 20 and autonomy in daily activities. Overall, the gaze detection unit 103 represents an invaluable tool for training individuals with low vision, helping them improve their visual skills and enhancing their quality of life.
[047] The audio feedback unit 104 integrated into the mounting frame 101 is essential for enhancing telescope vision training by providing auditory guidance and cues to 25 the wearer. This unit features speakers 104a embedded in each temple arm 101b of the mounting frame 101, delivering stereo sound that ensures clear audio instructions from both sides. The miniaturized speakers 104a are strategically positioned to provide effective sound output without obstructing the wearer's field of vision. Accompanying these speakers 104a is a volume control knob 104b, conveniently 30 located on one of the temple arms 101b, allowing the wearer to easily adjust the audio level to suit their preferences or the surrounding noise conditions.
[048] Functioning in tandem with a gaze detection unit 103, the audio feedback unit 104 continuously analyses the wearer's gaze during various training exercises-
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tracking, tracing, localization, and focusing. During tracking training, the unit provides real-time cues like "Shift right" or "Follow the target," helping the wearer smoothly follow a moving target with their eyes. In tracing training, auditory prompts such as "Trace the circle" guide the wearer in following specific patterns or shapes, improving precision in eye movements. For localization training, cues like "Look to 5 your left" enhance the wearer's ability to identify targets in their peripheral vision, which is crucial for developing scanning skills. Meanwhile, during focusing training, instructions such as "Shift your focus to the object far away" facilitate depth perception and the ability to adjust focus effectively.
[049] By integrating the gaze detection unit 103 with the audio feedback unit 104, the 10 training experience becomes cohesive, allowing for immediate auditory feedback based on continuous gaze analysis. This setup enhances the effectiveness of the training while supporting the wearer's learning curve through a multisensory approach to vision rehabilitation. The design emphasizes user engagement, enabling wearers to customize their auditory experience and improve comfort. Overall, the audio feedback 15 unit 104 plays a pivotal role in enriching telescope vision training, empowering individuals with low vision to enhance their visual skills, gain confidence, and achieve greater independence in their daily lives.
[050] The training mode selection button 105 installed in the mounting frame 101, is an integral feature of the present device 100 designed to enhance the effectiveness of 20 visual exercises for the wearer. This button allows users to easily switch between different training modes, each tailored to develop specific visual skills essential for improving their overall visual capabilities. The various training modes available include tracking training, tracing training, localization training, and focusing training.
[051] When the wearer engages in tracking training, the training mode selection 25 button 105 enables them to focus on a moving target. This mode prompts the wearer to follow the target's movement with their eyes, helping to improve their eye coordination and smooth tracking abilities. Users receive auditory cues that guide them in maintaining focus on the target, enhancing their ability to track objects in real time. 30
[052] The tracing training mode is activated by the selection button, allowing the wearer to follow a specific pattern or shape with their eyes. This mode is particularly beneficial for developing precision in eye movements, as it encourages the wearer to
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track complex paths, enhancing their visual control and coordination. Auditory prompts assist the wearer in understanding how to navigate the pattern effectively.
[053] In the localization training mode, the button allows the wearer to practice locating targets within their peripheral vision. This mode emphasizes the importance of scanning the environment and improving spatial awareness. Users are guided by 5 auditory instructions that prompt them to look for designated targets in their periphery, helping to enhance their ability to identify objects outside their direct line of sight.
[054] Finally, the focusing training mode, selected via the training mode button, helps the wearer develop their ability to focus on objects at varying distances. This mode provides guidance on adjusting focus, with auditory cues instructing the wearer to 10 shift their gaze between near and far targets. This exercise is crucial for improving depth perception and the ability to accommodate visual needs in everyday situations.
[055] Overall, the training mode selection button 105 serves as a user-friendly interface, allowing wearers to customize their training sessions according to their specific needs. By providing access to these varied modes, the device 100 supports a 15 comprehensive approach to vision rehabilitation, empowering users to enhance their visual skills and improve their quality of life.
[056] The integration of a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) embedded in the mounting frame 101 of the eyewear serves as a visual indicator for the training mode selected by the wearer. This feature enhances the user experience by providing 20 immediate, clear feedback regarding which specific training mode is currently active. Each LED can be programmed to emit different colors or patterns, corresponding to the various training modes-tracking, tracing, localization, and focusing. This visual cue allows the wearer to quickly and intuitively understand their current training context without needing to rely solely on auditory feedback. 25
[057] For instance, when the wearer selects tracking training, the LEDs may illuminate in a specific colour, such as green, signalling that they are set to follow a moving target. This immediate visual indication not only reinforces the auditory prompts given during the training but also helps the wearer stay engaged and focused on the task at hand. Similarly, for tracing training, the LEDs could change to a 30 different colour, like blue, indicating that the wearer should now concentrate on following a pattern or shape with their eyes. This clear differentiation helps prevent confusion and allows the wearer to transition smoothly between training modes.
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[058] In addition to indicating the training mode, the LEDs can serve a dual purpose by providing real-time feedback during exercises. For example, if the wearer successfully tracks a moving target or follows a designated pattern, the LEDs could flash or change colors as a form of positive reinforcement. This feature can enhance motivation, as visual recognition of their progress can encourage continued effort and 5 engagement in the training process.
[059] Moreover, the inclusion of these LEDs within the mounting frame 101 ensures that they are seamlessly integrated into the overall design of the eyewear, maintaining both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Their placement is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing the wearer to benefit from the visual cues without distracting from their 10 training exercises. Overall, the embedded LEDs significantly enhance the usability of the telescope training device 100, providing wearers with essential visual feedback that complements the auditory instructions and promotes a more effective training experience.
[060] The present invention also relates to a method for administering telescope vision 15 training to a wearer, as shown in Figure 2 illustrating a flowchart depicting the method for administering telescope vision training.
[061] The method for administering telescope vision training to a wearer consists of several structured steps designed to enhance the wearer's visual skills and overall functional independence. The wearer initiates the training by providing input by 20 actuating a power button provided on said mounting frame 101. The training begins with tracking training, where the wearer is instructed to follow a moving target with their eyes. This step is essential for improving eye coordination and smooth pursuit movements. The training system utilizes real-time tracking technology to ensure that the wearer can effectively focus on the target, while auditory cues guide them in 25 maintaining their gaze, reinforcing the connection between visual tracking and physical movement.
[062] Following the tracking training, the method progresses to tracing training. In this phase, the wearer is prompted to follow a designated pattern or shape with their eyes. This exercise enhances the precision of eye movements and helps the wearer 30 develop better control and coordination. The training device 100 provides auditory instructions to encourage the wearer to navigate the pattern accurately, fostering engagement and concentration on the task.
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[063] Next, the method includes localization training, where the wearer is challenged to locate targets within their peripheral vision. This step is crucial for developing spatial awareness and improving the ability to scan the environment effectively. The training system encourages the wearer to identify objects outside their direct line of sight, with auditory prompts guiding them to focus on specific areas in their periphery, 5 thus strengthening their visual scanning abilities.
[064] The training then shifts to focusing training, which involves guiding the wearer to focus on a target at varying distances. This phase is vital for enhancing depth perception and the ability to adjust visual attention based on distance. The auditory feedback system provides instructions that direct the wearer to shift their gaze between 10 near and far objects, helping them practice the necessary adjustments for everyday activities.
[065] Throughout all these training exercises, the method emphasizes the importance of continuously analyzing the gaze of the wearer. This ongoing analysis enables the training system to monitor the wearer's eye movements in real time, providing 15 valuable data that can inform the subsequent feedback and guidance offered. The continuous gaze analysis ensures that the training remains responsive and tailored to the wearer's specific needs, enhancing the effectiveness of the exercises.
[066] Finally, the method culminates in providing continuous audio feedback to the wearer in the form of guidance and cues throughout the training sessions. This 20 auditory feedback serves to reinforce the instructions given during each phase, helping the wearer stay focused and engaged. By offering immediate responses based on the wearer's performance, the audio feedback enhances learning and encourages continued practice. Overall, this comprehensive approach to telescope vision training equips wearers with the skills necessary to improve their visual function and 25 confidence in everyday situations.
[067] In an embodiment of the present invention, an app is provided which is designed to be installed on a mobile device 100 of the wearer to enable the wearer to operate the device 100. The app designed for a smartphone or tablet to operate the telescope vision training device 100 serves as a user-friendly interface that enhances the overall 30 training experience for individuals with low vision. This application connects seamlessly to the training device 100 via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing users to manage various aspects of their training program directly from their mobile device 100s.
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[068] The telescope training device 100 offers several significant advantages that enhance the effectiveness of visual exercise and rehabilitation for individuals with low vision or wanting to maintain healthy vision. One of the primary benefits is the provision of real-time feedback and direction during training sessions. The integrated gaze detection system continuously monitors the wearer's eye movements, allowing 5 for instant audio feedback that corrects the patient's gaze and technique as needed. This immediate guidance helps patients refine their skills in the moment, leading to quicker improvements and greater retention of techniques.
[069] Another major advantage is the convenience of home-based training. The device 100 enables patients to practice in the comfort of their own homes, significantly 10 reducing the necessity for frequent in-office visits to optometrists. This flexibility allows users to train at their own pace and on their schedule, making it easier to integrate practice into their daily routines. By providing a familiar environment, patients can focus on mastering their telescope skills without the pressure or logistics of attending appointments. 15
[070] The personalized training experience offered by the device 100 is also noteworthy. Each training session is tailored to the individual's progress and specific needs. The device 100 adapts to the patient's gaze patterns, offering customized feedback and challenges that cater to their unique learning curve. This personalized approach ensures that the training remains relevant and effective, ultimately leading 20 to better outcomes as patients receive support that aligns with their abilities and goals.
[071] Finally, regular use of the telescope vision training device 100 facilitates improvement and mastery of essential skills. As patients engage consistently with the training exercises, they enhance their tracking, tracing, localization, and focusing abilities. Mastery of these skills not only boosts the individual's confidence but also 25 significantly improves their overall proficiency in using telescopes 102 for better vision. The cumulative effect of these advantages contributes to a more effective rehabilitation process, empowering patients to engage more fully in daily activities and enhancing their quality of life.
[072] Although a particular exemplary embodiment of the invention is disclosed in 30 detail for illustrative purposes, it will be recognized to those skilled in the art that variations or modifications of the disclosed invention, including the rearrangement in the configurations of the parts, changes in steps and their sequences may be possible.
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Accordingly, the invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as may fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[073] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed and obviously 5 many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.
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CLAIMS:
We Claim
1. A telescope training device 100 to administer telescope vision training to a wearer, comprising:
a) a mounting frame 101 configured with adjustable nose pads 101a and temple arms 101b, adapted to fit varying head sizes;
b) a pair of telescopes 102 disposed with a front portion of the mounting frame 101, designed to be aligned with eyes of the wearer to administer telescope vision training;
c) a gaze detection unit 103 incorporated with the telescopes 102 to track eye movements of the wearer during the telescope vision training; and
d) an audio feedback unit 104 integrated with the mounting frame 101, to provide audio feedback and guidance to the wearer in the course of the telescope vision training.
2. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the telescopes 102 have an adjustable zoom in the range of 2x to 10x.
3. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gaze detection unit 103 comprises at least one infrared camera 103a installed at the front portion of the mounting frame 101.
4. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the audio feedback unit 104 is configured with a speaker 104a embedded on each of the temple arms 101b of the mounting frame 101.
5. The device 100 as claimed in claim 4, wherein the audio feedback unit 104 further comprises a volume control knob 104b connected with the speaker 104a to enable adjustment of volume of the speakers 104a.
6. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein a training mode selection button 105 is provided on said mounting frame 101 to enable selection between training modes.
7. The device 100 as claimed in claim 6, wherein the mode selection button 105 enables a selection between training modes including tracking training, tracing training, localisation training and focusing training.
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8. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) is disposed on the mounting frame 101 to indicate a selected training mode.
9. A method for administering telescope vision training to a wearer, comprising of steps:
a. imparting tracking training by having the wearer track a moving target with their eyes;
b. conducting tracing training by prompting the wearer to follow a pattern or shape with their eyes;
c. providing localisation training by having the wearer locate targets in their peripheral vision;
d. implementing focusing training by guiding the wearer to focus on a target at varying distances;
e. continuously analysing a gaze of the wearer during the tracking training, the tracing training, the localisation training and the focusing training; and
f. providing audio feedback to the wearer in the form of guidance and cues during the training.
Dated this 28th Day of October, 2024.
GD Goenka University
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ABSTRACT
A TELESCOPE TRAINING DEVICE
The present invention relates to a telescope training device 100 configured to administer telescope vision training to a wearer donning the device 100. The device 100 comprises a mounting frame 101 configured with adjustable nose pads 101a and temple arms 101b, adapted to fit varying head sizes, a pair of telescopes 102 are disposed at a front portion of the mounting frame 101, designed to be aligned with eyes of the wearer to administer telescope vision training, a gaze detection unit 103 incorporated with the telescopes 102 to track eye movements of the wearer during the telescope vision training and an audio feedback unit 104 integrated with the mounting frame 101, to provide audio feedback and guidance to the wearer in the course of the telescope vision training. , Claims:CLAIMS:
We Claim
1. A telescope training device 100 to administer telescope vision training to a wearer, comprising:
a) a mounting frame 101 configured with adjustable nose pads 101a and temple arms 101b, adapted to fit varying head sizes;
b) a pair of telescopes 102 disposed with a front portion of the mounting frame 101, designed to be aligned with eyes of the wearer to administer telescope vision training;
c) a gaze detection unit 103 incorporated with the telescopes 102 to track eye movements of the wearer during the telescope vision training; and
d) an audio feedback unit 104 integrated with the mounting frame 101, to provide audio feedback and guidance to the wearer in the course of the telescope vision training.
2. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the telescopes 102 have an adjustable zoom in the range of 2x to 10x.
3. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gaze detection unit 103 comprises at least one infrared camera 103a installed at the front portion of the mounting frame 101.
4. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the audio feedback unit 104 is configured with a speaker 104a embedded on each of the temple arms 101b of the mounting frame 101.
5. The device 100 as claimed in claim 4, wherein the audio feedback unit 104 further comprises a volume control knob 104b connected with the speaker 104a to enable adjustment of volume of the speakers 104a.
6. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein a training mode selection button 105 is provided on said mounting frame 101 to enable selection between training modes.
7. The device 100 as claimed in claim 6, wherein the mode selection button 105 enables a selection between training modes including tracking training, tracing training, localisation training and focusing training.
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8. The device 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) is disposed on the mounting frame 101 to indicate a selected training mode.
9. A method for administering telescope vision training to a wearer, comprising of steps:
a. imparting tracking training by having the wearer track a moving target with their eyes;
b. conducting tracing training by prompting the wearer to follow a pattern or shape with their eyes;
c. providing localisation training by having the wearer locate targets in their peripheral vision;
d. implementing focusing training by guiding the wearer to focus on a target at varying distances;
e. continuously analysing a gaze of the wearer during the tracking training, the tracing training, the localisation training and the focusing training; and
f. providing audio feedback to the wearer in the form of guidance and cues during the training.

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