Mobile sensor system and methods for use
Inventors
Assignees
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Publication Number
US-10729370-B2
Publication Date
2020-08-04
Expiration Date
2035-12-10
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Abstract
The present disclosure provides a system including one or more sensors, a mounting system configured to removeably mount a computing device such that a camera of the computing device is positioned facing an eye of a subject, and a control system. The control system is configured to (a) receive sensor data from the one or more sensors, (b) determine whether the sensor data is indicative of balance instability of the subject, (c) track a position of the eye of the subject to assess vestibular dysfunction, (d) determine whether the camera data is indicative of vestibular dysfunction of the subject, and (e) in response to (i) the sensor data being indicative of balance instability of the subject and/or (ii) the camera data being indicative of vestibular dysfunction of the subject, display an indication of symptoms that are characteristic of a traumatic brain injury or concussion.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a portable mobile system and methods for detecting symptoms characteristic of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion. The system includes one or more sensors, a mounting system for removeably mounting a computing device such that its camera faces an eye of a subject, and a control system that processes sensor and camera data. The control system evaluates balance instability using sensor data and assesses vestibular dysfunction by tracking eye position using the camera, displaying indications if symptoms characteristic of TBI or a concussion are detected.
The problem addressed is the need for quick, onsite, objective, and quantitative assessment tools for balance and vestibular function in individuals who may have sustained TBI, especially since traditional tests often require specialized training, are subjective, and may miss mild injuries such as concussions. The disclosed invention seeks to solve these deficiencies by providing a system that can be used by non-specialists, provides objective measurements, and supports prompt screening and triage decisions.
The system can detect postural balance by using sensors that measure parameters such as sway area, sway velocity, maximum displacement, and head rotation when the subject performs specific actions. In parallel, it uses the camera to track eye movements (such as nystagmus), analyzing features like the edge or centroid of the iris or pupil, and compares results with stored dysfunction profiles. Visual, textual, and audio prompts guide both the subject and the administrator through standardized procedures, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the assessment process.
Claims Coverage
The independent claims cover a system, method, and computer-readable medium for detecting symptoms of traumatic brain injury or concussion, centered on the integration of sensors, eye tracking via a mounted camera, and context-specific data processing.
System for balance and vestibular dysfunction assessment
A system comprising: - One or more sensors configured to be removeably positioned on a subject (with at least one sensor on a body part other than the head). - A mounting system with a mounting clip having a first edge, a second edge, and a cutout, to removeably retain a computing device such that its camera is aligned to face a first eye of a subject. The second eye is covered by an opaque material, ensuring only the first eye is in the camera's field of view. - A control system to: - Receive sensor data from the one or more sensors. - Determine if the sensor data indicates balance instability. - Track the first eye's position for a specified time to assess vestibular dysfunction via the camera. - Determine if the camera data is indicative of vestibular dysfunction. - If either balance instability or vestibular dysfunction symptoms are indicated, display an indication the subject has symptoms characteristic of traumatic brain injury or concussion; if neither is indicated, display a negative indication.
Method for detecting traumatic brain injury or concussion symptoms
A method including: 1. Positioning one or more sensors on a subject (at least one sensor on a non-head body part). 2. Receiving sensor data at a computing device from the sensors. 3. Determining, by the computing device, if the sensor data is indicative of balance instability. 4. Removeably coupling the computing device to a mounting system so the camera faces the first eye (and the second is covered by an opaque material). 5. Tracking, by the computing device, the first eye’s position for a set time to assess vestibular dysfunction. 6. Determining, by the computing device, if camera data is indicative of vestibular dysfunction. 7. Based on the results, displaying an indication of symptoms characteristic (or not characteristic) of traumatic brain injury or concussion.
Non-transitory computer-readable medium for TBI and concussion assessment
A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that cause a computing device to: - Receive sensor data from one or more sensors positioned on a subject (at least one not on the head). - Determine if the sensor data indicates balance instability. - Track the first eye’s position for a given time via the camera when mounted in accordance with the system (with an opaque cover for the second eye). - Determine whether the camera data indicates vestibular dysfunction. - Based on sensor and camera data, display an indication of symptoms that are characteristic or not characteristic of a traumatic brain injury or concussion.
The inventive features establish a system, method, and computer-readable medium integrating balance sensors, eye tracking via camera, and a mounting system with specific alignment and occlusion requirements, all coordinated to objectively detect and display potential symptoms of traumatic brain injury or concussion.
Stated Advantages
Enables quick on-site objective and quantitative assessment of balance and vestibular function in individuals who may have sustained traumatic brain injury.
Supports efficient and accurate triaging by providing objective measures compared to subjective or qualitative clinical tests.
Does not require specialized training to administer, making it suitable for use by non-experts in the field.
Facilitates early and accurate detection of symptoms, reducing risk of delayed treatment or recurrent head trauma.
Documented Applications
Screening and initial assessment of individuals (such as soldiers or athletes) for symptoms characteristic of traumatic brain injury or concussion.
Use as a portable system for on-site evaluation of balance and vestibular function to assist in triage decisions.
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