SUMMARY:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Ophthalmology have developed a small Bluetooth low energy beacon sensor to monitor low vision patient use of visual assist devices in real-time.
BACKGROUND:
Rehabilitation for low vision patients includes the use of visual assisting devices such as magnifiers. One in five patients, however, abandon their magnification device within three months, partially completing their rehabilitation and minimizing the effectiveness of the overall treatment. Technological developments have helped monitor patient compliance but existing devices are too large, bulky and intrusive for use on low vision assist devices. Improvements in monitoring technology are needed to help clinicians track low vision patient progress and use of magnifiers.
INNOVATION:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Ophthalmology have developed a device that uses a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) beacon sensor on magnifiers to allow for the real-time monitoring of patient usage. The device is non-intrusive, small, and disposable to make it easy to incorporate on any magnification device. The device can collect data on the frequency and duration of usage, temperature and motion changes (x, y, and z direction) real time and wirelessly transmit data to a mobile device via a custom application. By collecting and providing personalized data to the clinician, the doctor can monitor patient compliance and ensure optimal rehabilitation.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS:
- Personalized therapy
- Personalized diagnostics
- Real-time monitor on environmental changes (temperature and humidity)
- Health care data collection
ADVANTAGES:
- Non-invasive
- Non-intrusive
- Small
- Disposable
- Inexpensive
- Easy to pair with mobile device
- Real-time monitoring
RELATED MATERIALS:
DEVELOPMENT TO DATE:
Proof of concept device has been successfully developed and tested in small patient population.