This technology stands apart by combining high-fidelity eye tracking, positional sensing, and environmental monitoring in a single, portable device designed for home use. Unlike traditional vestibular test equipment confined to clinical settings, it captures naturalistic data during actual dizziness or vertigo episodes, improving diagnostic precision. Dual optical configurations accommodate different user needs and device sizes, while wireless data transfer and precise time-stamping streamline clinician review. The result is a noninvasive, versatile system that bridges lab-grade measurement accuracy with patient comfort and real-world convenience.
Description
Investigators at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a device that will enable patients to record their eye movements during episodes of dizziness and vertigo. These data will enable physicians to evaluate physiologic data collected during attacks of dizziness and vertigo and thereby improve diagnostic accuracy and thus treatment of many common balance disorders. The recording of eye movements at home will be accomplished by portable, rugged goggles that will record infrared images of the eye using infrared illumination with a frame rate of at least 60Hz. These data will be analyzed by the ordering physician with the video images of eye movements and incorporated into the diagnostic process much like Holter monitor data for cardiac evaluations.
Applications
Home-based vertigo monitoring
Vestibular telemedicine diagnostics
Clinical trial eye-tracking data
Balance rehabilitation progress tracking
Remote neurological screening
Advantages
Enables at-home monitoring of dizziness and vertigo episodes in real-life settings
High-frequency (≥60 Hz) infrared eye-tracking captures subtle nystagmus for detailed analysis
Concurrent recording of head position and ambient luminance provides comprehensive diagnostic context
Time-stamped synchronization of eye images and sensor data ensures precise event correlation
Minimally obstructive eyeglass-style design maximizes patient comfort and compliance
Onboard or wireless storage allows seamless data transfer and remote physician review
Optional third-camera view of surroundings offers environmental context for triggers
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US8911090B2
