By Diagnostics World Staff
October 16, 2024 | Dr. Jae-Hyun Ryou, a mechanical engineer at the University of Houston, has developed a breakthrough wearable eye-tracking system aimed at enhancing brain studies through continuous monitoring. The flexible piezoelectric eye movement sensor array (F-PEMSA) consists of three small sensors, each smaller than a penny, which attach comfortably to the upper, mid, and lower temple. These sensors provide ongoing, highly precise measurements of eye movements, detecting changes at the micrometer level. By offering continuous data, this system has the potential to improve the understanding of brain function and cognition.
F-PEMSA addresses significant shortcomings of traditional eye-tracking systems, which are often bulky, expensive, and limited in data output. Current systems typically involve headgear and optical methods, which intermittently capture eye movements by reflecting light off the eye. This limitation results in insufficient data for many clinical studies, particularly those focusing on neurological disorders. Ryou’s sensors, however, provide a steady stream of data, opening the door to more reliable research on conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Ocular movements have been linked to brain disorders, and the continuous data F-PEMSA provides could aid in early diagnosis and disease progression monitoring.
The clinical possibilities for this wearable technology are vast, with potential applications extending to various neurological and ophthalmological assessments. For instance, eye blinking patterns have been used for early diagnosis of neurological disorders, and motor neurons linked to autism have been observed through ocular movements.
Ryou and his team are currently focused on refining the sensors to wirelessly transmit data to base stations like smartphones or tablets, a crucial step before beginning clinical trials. With adequate funding, the commercialization of F-PEMSA could happen in the next three to five years.
For further details, read the full article at Clinical Research News.