Development and Validation of an Integrated Platform for Simultaneous Accommodometry and Eye-Tracking

Brief plain language background 

For us to see clearly, our eyes' focusing system (accommodation) and movement system must work together perfectly. The focusing system adjusts the lens for different distances, while the movement system points our eyes at objects. This crucial link ensures we have clear, stable, single vision. When this coordination is disrupted, it can lead to problems like blurred vision, eye strain, and squints (strabismus). 

What problem/knowledge gap does it help address 

Currently, scientists cannot properly study how the eye's focusing and movement systems work together. The best tools for measuring eye movements use infrared light, which unfortunately interferes with the tools used to measure focus, as they also use infrared. This technical problem creates a major roadblock. It stops us from investigating the precise, second-by-second link between focus and eye position in patients with specific vision problems. 

Aim of the project 

To build and test a specialised measurement station. By combining a custom-built, visible light focus tracker with a standard high-speed eye tracker, we can create a tool to measure both systems at once without interference, paving the way for new research. 

Potential impact on people with sight loss 

In conditions like amblyopia and strabismus, we know the eye's focusing and movement systems are dysfunctional, but we cannot see how they fail to work together. This project builds the tool to finally investigate this fundamental problem. In the long-term (5-10+ years), understanding this dynamic link will provide a roadmap for developing better treatments. It will help us understand why current therapies sometimes fail and how we can design new ones to achieve better, more stable vision for patients.