JP7486223B2 - Vision training equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a visual acuity training device.

Conventionally, devices for training visual acuity have been proposed, such as "a training device for dynamic visual acuity that selectively lights up a number of light-emitting elements (16) at predetermined time intervals and allows the trainee (5) to confirm the light emitted, characterized in that the light-emitting elements (16) are formed in a rod shape so that the light emission can be seen from the side."

JP 2005-160971 A

The above-mentioned dynamic visual acuity training device is effective in improving the visibility of the light-emitting part from the side, but it is inconvenient because the operation is complicated and the trainee cannot operate it by himself. In addition, since the trainee only has to follow the dot-like light-emitting part, the training is monotonous and he or she quickly becomes bored.

Meanwhile, as the aging population progresses, there is growing talk of the need for training to improve the eyesight of the elderly. Dynamic visual acuity generally peaks at around 0.8 around age 20, but begins to decline gradually and drops sharply from the age of 40, with the average dynamic visual acuity of people aged 70 and over said to have fallen to around 0.1. In addition, the visual field angle is said to be around 200 degrees for the average adult, narrowing to around 160 degrees for the elderly, and peripheral visual function is said to decline with age. However, the above-mentioned training devices are not suitable for the elderly.

It is also said that the condition in which something is visible but difficult to recognize can occur due to psychological factors or unconscious brain selection (scotoma), so training is required to ensure that you do not overlook objects that should be of interest.

The present invention aims to solve at least one of the above problems by providing a visual acuity training device that is easy to operate and can be used without getting bored.

In order to solve at least one of the problems described above, the visual acuity training device of the present invention is a visual acuity training device worn on the head, and includes a mounting unit and an image display unit that is mounted on the head by the mounting unit so that a display area is positioned in front of the eyes, and training images of a training image set are sequentially displayed in the display area, and a gaze area and a non-gaze area having lower visibility than the gaze area are formed by displaying the training images, and the training image set includes two or more of one or both of left eye training images and right eye training images, and the gaze areas of the left eye training images are different from each other, and the gaze areas of the right eye training images are different from each other.

In the visual acuity training device, the training image set is displayed in the display area by sequentially switching the training images so that the gaze area moves in a predetermined direction, and the predetermined direction may be an up-down direction, a horizontal direction, a diagonal direction, or a combination of these directions.

In the visual acuity training device, the training image set may be displayed repeatedly during one training session.

In the visual acuity training device, the non-focused area may be an area in which it is difficult to see the outside scene when viewed directly through the display area.

In the visual acuity training device, the non-focused area may be a portion of the outside scene that is indirectly viewed by displaying the training image in the display area and that is difficult to see.

In the visual acuity training device, the non-focused area may be a portion of the image displayed in the display area that is difficult to see. In the visual acuity training device, the display area may display a highlighting frame or figure around the focus area.

In the visual acuity training device, the training image may be switched in response to the movement of the wearer's head.

The present invention provides a visual acuity training tool that is easy to operate and can be used without getting bored.

Problems, configurations, and advantages other than those described above will become clear from the description of the embodiments below.

1 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to a first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a training image set for a visual acuity training tool. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of an image visually recognized by a wearer before a training image is displayed by the visual acuity training device. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of an image visually recognized by a wearer when a training image is displayed by the visual acuity training tool. FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a training image set for a visual acuity training tool. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a training image set for a visual acuity training tool. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a training image set for a visual acuity training tool. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a training image set for a visual acuity training tool. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a visual acuity training tool that works in conjunction with body movement. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a visual acuity training tool that is linked to the movement of an object. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an eye muscle visual acuity training device that moves in conjunction with the movement of an object. FIG. 11 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to a second embodiment. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an image visually recognized by a wearer of the visual acuity training device according to the second embodiment. FIG. FIG. 11 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training tool according to a third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to a third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the visual acuity training device according to embodiment 3. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the visual acuity training device according to embodiment 3. FIG. 13 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training tool according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the visual acuity training device according to embodiment 4. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the eye muscle visual acuity training device according to the fifth embodiment.

The following describes an example of an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Note that components common to the following embodiments may be given the same reference numerals as those described above, and descriptions thereof may be omitted. In addition, when referring to the shape, positional relationship, etc. of components, etc., this includes those that are substantially similar or similar to the shape, etc., unless otherwise specified or considered to be clearly different in principle.

The visual acuity training device of one embodiment of the present invention is worn on the head of a wearer. The visual acuity training device of the present invention trains visual acuity by sequentially displaying training images of a training image set in a display area placed in front of the wearer's eyes. The visual acuity training device of the present invention comprises an image display unit that displays the training image set in front of the wearer's eyes, a mounting unit that mounts the image display unit on the wearer's head so that the display area is placed in front of the wearer's eyes, and a control unit that controls the image display unit. Note that in this application, visual acuity broadly refers to visual ability, and includes abilities related to visual organs such as the eyes, and abilities related to the brain involved in processing visual stimuli.

<Embodiment 1>
1 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training device 100 according to embodiment 1. The visual acuity training device 100 of embodiment 1 trains the eye muscles by encouraging eye movement. This is also expected to improve the brain's ability to recognize moving objects. The visual acuity training device 100 of embodiment 1 changes the visibility of the external scene (the state of the outside world (real world)) directly viewed through the display area by displaying a training image set.

The vision training device 100 has a mounting unit 110, an image display unit 120, and a control unit 130. The mounting unit 110 is formed in the shape of glasses and has a pair of strings 111 (left string 111L, left string 111R) that are hung on the ears, and a connection unit 112 that connects the pair of strings and is hung on the nose.

The image display unit 120 includes a pair of training image display units 121, a left eye training image display unit 121L and a right eye training image display unit 121R. Here, the training image display unit 121 includes an organic electroluminescent panel (OLED) that is transparent in a non-emitting state, and the display area is formed on this organic electroluminescent panel.

Detailed illustrations are omitted, but the left eye training image display unit 121L will be taken as an example (the right eye training image display unit 121R is formed symmetrically). As an example, this organic EL panel has organic EL elements arranged in a matrix, with each pixel consisting of a unit containing one R, G, and B element, and the driving circuit displays the training image by selecting and energizing the organic EL elements in accordance with a signal from the image control unit 133 described below. Note that the organic EL panel may include elements of other colors, or may include transparent elements.

The control unit 130 includes an operation unit 131, an operation display unit 132, and an image control unit 133. Here, the control unit 130 is illustrated as being disposed on the left string unit 111L, but it may be disposed in another location, and some or all of its functions may be configured separately.

The operation unit 131 is an operation button or the like that allows the wearer to operate the image display unit 120. The operation display unit 132 displays an operation display corresponding to the operation of the operation unit 131. The image control unit 133 accepts the operation of the wearer and controls the display of the training image by the image display unit 120.

Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the visual acuity training device 100 according to embodiment 1. The image control unit 133 has a CPU that functions as a training image control unit 134, a memory consisting of a RAM, a ROM, etc. that functions as a storage unit 135, a communication unit 136, and an input/output unit 137. The training image control unit 134 may execute a program stored in the storage unit 135 to generate a training image and output it to the image display unit, or may obtain a training image from the outside via the communication unit 136 and output it to the image display unit.

The visual acuity training device 100 may be equipped with a pair of left and right gaze detection units 71 (71L, 71R) that detect the gaze of the wearer. A known device is used for the gaze detection units 71, for example, one that uses infrared rays and detects the gaze by receiving the infrared rays that are projected and reflected off the wearer's eyes.

The visual acuity training device 100 may include a head movement detection unit 72 that detects the movement of the wearer's head. The head movement detection unit 152 may be a known device, such as a six-axis acceleration sensor.

<Training image set>
A training image set including two or more pairs of training images, each pair being a left eye training image and a right eye training image, is displayed in the display area of the image display unit 120. In the display area, a gaze area and a non-gaze area that surrounds the gaze area and has lower visibility than the gaze area are formed by displaying the training images.

Figure 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of a training image set of a visual acuity training tool. Each training image has an outer edge K1 (LK1, RK1) and an inner edge K2 (LK2, RK2), and the outer edge K1 (LK1, RK1) coincides with the outer edge of the display area of the training image display unit 121 (121L, 121R), and the inner edge K2 is located within the outer edge K1. When each training image is displayed, a fixation area M (LM, RM) with the inner edge K2 as the outer edge and a non-fixation area N (LN, RN) between the outer edge K1 and the inner edge K2 are formed in the display area. Note that, for convenience of explanation, the area within the inner edge K2 of each training image will be referred to as the fixation area M (LM, RM), and the area between the outer edge K1 and the inner edge K2 will be referred to as the non-fixation area N (LN, RM) in the following explanation.

At least two pairs of training images in the training image set have different gaze areas between the left eye training images and between the right eye training images, more specifically, the positions or sizes of the gaze areas are different. Preferably, the training images in the training image set are sequentially switched and displayed so that the gaze area M moves in a predetermined direction or expands or contracts to a predetermined size.

Here, a training image set 500 is shown for moving the eyes horizontally, e.g., from right to left. A training image set for moving the eyes from left to right can be constructed symmetrically.

The training image set 500 includes two or more pairs of left and right training images. As an example, it includes three pairs of training images, a first training image 501, a second training image 502, and a third training image 503, in that order. Here, in each training image, the gaze area M is an area where the outside scene can be seen through the display area, and the non-gaze area N is a dark color. In the case of a transparent organic EL panel, the training image is displayed by turning off the organic EL elements in the corresponding area to a transparent state, and the non-gaze area N is displayed by turning on the corresponding surrounding organic EL elements to emit a dark color. Although details are omitted, the image control unit 133 generates and outputs an image signal that causes the training image display unit 121 to display in this manner.

The first training image 501 includes a left eye training image 501L including a gaze area LMA located on the right side and a non-gaze area LNA located around it, and a right eye training image 501R including a gaze area RMA located on the right side and a non-gaze area RNA located around it. The second training image 502 includes a left eye training image 502L including a gaze area LMB located in the center and a non-gaze area LNB located around it, and a right eye training image 502R including a gaze area RMB located on the right side and a non-gaze area RNB located around it. The third training image 503 includes a left eye training image 503L including a gaze area LMC located on the left side and a non-gaze area LNC located around it, and a right eye training image 503R including a gaze area RMC located on the right side and a non-gaze area RNC located around it.

The total time for displaying the training image set 500 is, for example, 1/80 seconds, more preferably 1/50 seconds, and has an upper limit of 1 second, more preferably 1/2 seconds. During one training session, the training image set 500 is repeatedly displayed.

Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams for explaining an example of an image seen by a wearer using a visual acuity training device, with Figure 4 showing the state before the training image is displayed and Figure 5 showing the state when the training image is displayed. Here, the image seen by the wearer as a result of displaying training image set 500 in front of the wearer's eyes is shown, using the left eye as an example. As shown, by displaying training image set 500, the visibility of the outside scene seen by the wearer is partially changed, forming a gaze area LM and a non-gaze area LN, and the visibility of the non-gaze area N is reduced. Here, the training image can also be said to be a visibility-changing image that changes the visibility of the outside scene seen directly by the wearer through the display area.

As shown in image 601L, when left eye training image 501L is displayed to the left eye, the left eye sees the person on the right side of the external scene where two people are playing a ball game through the gaze area. Next, as shown in image 602L, when left eye training image 502L is displayed to the left eye, the left eye sees the racket held by the two people in the middle of the scene where two people are playing tennis. Next, as shown in image 603L, when left eye training image 503L is displayed to the left eye, the left eye sees the person on the left side of the scene where two people are playing tennis. In this way, the left eye's eyeball moves so that its gaze follows the fluctuations of gaze area LM.

In this way, the visual acuity training device 100 can encourage the wearer's eyes to make a specific movement by displaying a training image set in front of the wearer's eyes, allowing for easy training of the eye muscles and improving dynamic visual acuity. In addition, the movement of the eyes covers a wide range of the line of sight, which also trains the brain's recognition and prevents the field of view from narrowing.

When using the vision training device 100, the wearer operates the operation unit 131 (e.g., by pressing the start button) to display the training image set 500, and without moving the head, the wearer uses the eyes to follow the changes in the gaze area. By simply repeating this, the wearer can stretch the eyes by moving the extraocular muscles from side to side. With one operation, the training image set 500 may be repeatedly displayed for a predetermined period of time. A stop time may be set so that when one set has finished being displayed, it stops for a maximum of several seconds, after which the training image set 500 is displayed again.

The vision training device 100 can be operated easily in this way. In addition, because training can be done while looking at the outside scenery, it can be used easily and without getting bored.

Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining another example of a training image set for a visual acuity training device. Here, a training image set 510 for moving the eyeball from the inside to the outside is shown. Note that a training image set for moving the eyeball from the outside to the inside can be constructed symmetrically.

The training image set 510 includes two or more pairs of left and right training images. As an example, it includes three pairs of images, a first training image 511, a second training image 512, and a third training image 513, in that order. The first training image 511 includes a left eye training image 511L with a gaze area LMA on the inside (right side) and a right eye training image 511R with a gaze area RMA on the inside (left side). The second training image 512 includes a left eye training image 512L with a gaze area LMB in the center and a right eye training image 512R with a gaze area RMB in the center. The third training image 513 includes a left eye training image 513L with a gaze area LMC on the outside (left side) and a right eye training image 512R with a gaze area RMC on the outside (right side).

Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining another example of training images for a visual acuity training device. Here, a training image set 520 is shown for changing the visual range by expanding or contracting the gaze area.

The training image set 520 includes two or more pairs of left and right training images. As an example, it includes three pairs of images, the first training image 521, the second training image 522, and the third training image 523, in that order. The first training image 521 includes a left eye training image 521L with the smallest gaze area LMA and a right eye training image 521R with the largest gaze area RMA. The second training image 522 includes a left eye training image 512L with the second smallest gaze area LMB and a right eye training image 512R with the second largest gaze area RMB. The third training image 513 includes a left eye training image 523L with the third smallest (largest) gaze area LMC and a right eye training image 522R with the third largest (smallest) gaze area RMC. It is also possible to configure the system symmetrically to that shown in the figure, displaying a training image for the left eye in which the gaze area changes sequentially from large to small, and displaying a training image for the right eye in which the gaze area changes sequentially from small to large.

Figure 8 is a diagram for explaining another example of a training image for a visual acuity training device. Figure 8(a) shows a training image set 530 for encouraging eye movement diagonally from above to below. Training image set 530 includes two or more pairs of left and right training images, but here, the first training image is shown, and the change in the gaze area is indicated by a white arrow. As shown, training image set 530 displays a gaze area for the left eye that gradually changes from the upper right to the lower left, and similarly for the right eye, gradually changing from the upper right to the lower left.

Figure 8 (b) shows a training image set 540 for encouraging eye movement diagonally from above to below. Training image set 540 includes two or more pairs of left and right training images, but here, the first training image is shown, and the change in the gaze area is indicated by a white arrow. As shown, training image set 540 displays a gaze area for the left eye that moves from the top right to the bottom left, then to the bottom right, then to the top left, and finally back to the top right. Note that the gaze area for the right eye is also displayed by changing in a similar manner.

Figure 8 (c) shows a training image set 540 for encouraging rotational movement of the eyeballs. Training image set 550 includes two or more pairs of left and right training images, but here, the first training image is shown, and the change in the gaze area is indicated by a white arrow. As shown, training image set 550 displays the gaze area for the left eye by changing it clockwise from the upper right, and similarly changes the gaze area for the right eye.

By training as shown in FIG. 8, the movement of the six extraocular muscles can be accelerated and the dynamic visual acuity can be improved. The display time of one set of training image sets can be preferably selected according to age. The display time of one set of training image sets can be preferably gradually shortened to increase the training level. For example, for elderly people, the display time may be about 5 seconds at first, and then the training level may be gradually increased to about 0.5 seconds at the highest level. For young people, the display time may be about 3 seconds at first, and then the training level may be gradually increased to about 0.2 seconds at the highest level. A combination of the above training image sets may be made into one group, and training may be performed on a group-by-group basis. In training on a group-by-group basis, a stop time may be provided between the training image sets, and the display of the training image set may be combined with a stop time (for example, 1 second to 6 seconds). A stop time may be provided in a predetermined unit in the display of one set of training image sets. For example, in the training image set 540 of FIG. 8(c), the images may be divided into four groups, the upper right, lower right, lower left, and upper left, and a stop time may be provided between each group.

The above are examples of training image sets, but the training image sets may have different movements or combinations of movements than those described above. They may also be repeatedly displayed in units different from those described above. They may also be linked to brain training by combining with the display of numbers, letters, figures, etc. They may also be linked to the movement of parts of the body other than the head. Note that, in this case, the body refers to parts of the body other than the head.

Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a training image for a visual acuity training device. Here, the training image further includes a document display, and combines the document display with a visibility-changing image.

Fig. 9(a) shows training image set 560 in which a horizontally written document is displayed with a varying gaze area. Fig. 9(b) shows training image set 570 in which a vertically written document is displayed with a varying gaze area. Training image sets 560 and 570 vary gaze area M in the order of A, B, C, D, ... to the end of the document. Note that training image sets 560 and 570 may include images that display the entire document at the beginning or end. Also, the size of the gaze area is three lines here, but it may be four or five lines.

When the training image display unit 121 is configured using a transparent organic EL panel, the training image sets 560 and 570 can be displayed, for example, by causing the organic EL elements corresponding to the characters in the gaze area to emit white light, turning off the organic EL elements corresponding to the parts other than the characters in the gaze area, and causing the organic EL elements corresponding to the non-gaze area to emit dark light.

It is said that the basis of speed reading is to move your eyes quickly and to look at the next line or character as one. These elements require eye movement and dynamic visual acuity. Furthermore, the brain's judgment ability is also required. By repeating the above training, it is expected that you will acquire the basic ability of speed reading.

Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a visual acuity training device that works in conjunction with body movement. The training images in the training image set may be switched in response to the movement of the wearer's head. Here, an example of switching of training images as a result of the wearer's head movement is shown using the visual image of the wearer for the left eye as an example.

As shown in image 611L, when left eye training image 501L is displayed to the left eye and a person on the right side is viewed in the gaze area, if the head moves to the right as shown by the black arrow, left eye training image 502L is displayed to the left eye in which the gaze area moves to the left so that the gaze remains on the person on the right side as shown in image 612L. Next, if the head moves further to the right as shown by the black arrow, the gaze area moves further to the left so that the gaze remains on the person on the right side as shown in image 613L, and left eye training image 503L is displayed to the left eye. In this way, a training image set may be displayed to train the eye muscles so that the head is moved to continue observing the same object.

Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of a visual acuity training device that works in conjunction with the movement of an object. The visual acuity training device 100 may further include an object movement detection unit that detects the movement of the object, and may display a training image set in conjunction with the movement of the object. Here, an example of the training image switching as a result of tracking the movement of the object is shown using the visual image of the wearer, taking the left eye as an example.

As shown by image 621L, when left eye training image 501L is displayed to the left eye and a person on the right side is viewed in the gaze area, if the object, a ball, moves, the gaze area moves to the left as if to follow the ball, as shown in image 622L, and left eye training image 502L is displayed to the left eye. If the ball further moves to the left, the gaze area moves further to the left as if to follow the ball, as shown in image 623L, and left eye training image 503L is displayed to the left eye. In this way, a training image set may be displayed to train the eye muscles to follow a moving object.

Figure 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of a visual acuity training device that is linked to the movement of an object. In ball games such as the one shown in the figure, the ball often moves in a curved shape (such as a parabola), so a training image set in which the gaze area changes in a curved shape is desirable. For example, an image set in which the gaze area changes in a curved shape like the images 631L, 632L, and 633L shown in the figure may be used.

The inner edge K2 of each training image may be highlighted in red, for example. The non-focused area N may be any area with lower visibility than the focused area M, and the form is not particularly limited.

The training image set may include only left eye training images and be performed only on the left eye, may include only right eye training images and be performed only on the right eye, or may be performed alternately on both eyes.

<First Modification of First Embodiment>
Although the visual acuity training device 100 of the first embodiment displays the training image set on a training image display section that uses a transparent organic EL panel, the training images may be displayed (presented) to the wearer by other configurations.

As an example, the training image display unit may be configured using a liquid crystal shutter (light filter), and the display area may be formed in this liquid crystal shutter. The liquid crystal shutter is configured so that the drive voltage changes in accordance with a signal from the image control unit 133, thereby changing the light transmittance. The configuration of the liquid crystal shutter is not particularly limited, and publicly known technology may be used as appropriate.

The gazed area M of each training image in the training image set is displayed by having the light transmittance of the corresponding area of the liquid crystal shutter be 100%, and the non-gaze area N of each training image is displayed by having the corresponding area of the liquid crystal shutter be in a non-transparent state or with low transmittance.

<Embodiment 2>
13 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training device 200 according to embodiment 2. The visual acuity training device 200 changes visibility by displaying a training image set with respect to an external scene that is directly viewed through a display region.

The vision training device 200 has a mounting unit 210, an image display unit 220, and a control unit 230. The mounting unit 210 is formed in the shape of glasses and has a pair of strings 211 (left string 211L, left string 211R) that are hung on the ears, and a connection unit 212 that connects the pair of strings and is hung on the nose.

The image display unit 220 includes a pair of training image display units 221, a left eye training image display unit 221L and a right eye training image display unit 221R. The training image display unit 221 is a so-called optical see-through type display unit, and the display area is formed on a light guide plate.

Although detailed illustration is omitted, the left eye training image display unit 221L will be described as an example (the right eye training image display unit 221R is formed symmetrically). As an example, it includes a display panel as a projection unit, an optical lens, and a light guide plate. The display panel is composed of a liquid crystal panel (including a backlight) or an organic EL panel. The optical lens is disposed in front of the display panel and converts the image light emitted from the display panel into a parallel light beam. The light guide plate is provided with a prism and a half mirror located in front of the eye, and the image light emitted from the optical lens is reflected by the prism toward the half mirror, and is reflected by the half mirror toward the rear eye. The reflected image light forms an image on the retina, allowing the wearer to view a virtual image. On the other hand, external light incident from the outside world passes through the half mirror and can be directly viewed by the wearer.

The control unit 230 includes an operation unit 231, an operation display unit 232, and an image control unit 233. The operation unit 231 is an operation button that allows the wearer to operate the display of the image display unit 220. The operation display unit 232 displays an operation display corresponding to the operation of the operation unit 231. The image control unit 233 accepts the operation of the wearer and controls the display of the training image by the image display unit 220. It goes without saying that the control unit 230 may be wirelessly connected to the image display unit 220. It goes without saying that the control unit 230 may be connected to a high-speed processing machine or an AI machine via the Internet to perform processing.

Figure 14 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device 200 according to embodiment 2. The image control unit 233 has a CPU that functions as a training image control unit 234, a memory consisting of a RAM, a ROM, etc. that functions as a storage unit 235, a communication unit 236, and an input/output unit 237. The training image control unit 234 may execute a program stored in the storage unit 235 to generate a training image and output it to the image display unit, or may obtain a training image from the outside via the communication unit 236 and output an image signal to the image display unit.

Figure 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of an image seen by a wearer using a visual acuity training device according to embodiment 2. As shown in the figure, by displaying a training image, the visibility of the outside scene seen by the wearer (see FIG. 15(a)) is partially changed, and as shown in FIG. 15(b), a gaze area M and a non-gaze area N are formed, and the visibility of the non-gaze area N is reduced. The training image can also be said to be a visibility-changed image that changes the visibility of the outside scene seen directly by the wearer through the display area. This visibility-changed image can be seen as a virtual image by the image light emitted from the display panel as a projection unit as described above being guided to a half mirror, reflected, and formed on the wearer's retina. Since this virtual image is superimposed on the outside scene seen directly by the wearer through the half mirror (see FIG. 15(a)), the visibility of the non-gaze area N is reduced or difficult to see in the image seen by the wearer, as shown in the image 641 in the figure.

The training image sets of this embodiment can be configured in the same way as the above examples, and by displaying these training image sets in front of the wearer's eyes using the visual acuity training device 200, it is possible to encourage the wearer's eyes to make a predetermined movement, which makes it possible to easily train the eye muscles and improve dynamic visual acuity. In addition, the movement of the eyes covers a wide range of the line of sight, which also trains the brain's recognition and prevents the field of view from narrowing.

The vision training device 200 of this embodiment is an optical see-through type image display unit, which allows the outside scene to be viewed through a lens, and an image (video) from an electronic display is overlaid on the wearer's retina using optical systems such as a prism or half mirror, overlaying the real world outside scene with virtual world information such as symbols, images, and text information. Publicly known technology is used as appropriate for the overlay display. For example, to overlay a real-world object at a specified position, information such as the object's latitude, longitude, and altitude is obtained using GPS or Wi-Fi, and digital information is then overlaid and displayed.

The visual acuity training device 200 can be easily operated, just like the visual acuity training devices in the above embodiments. In addition, since training can be done while looking at the outside scenery, it can be used casually without getting bored.

<Embodiment 3>
16 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training device 300 according to embodiment 3. The visual acuity training device 300 changes a part of the visibility of an outside scene that is indirectly viewed by being displayed in a display area. The visual acuity training device 300 converts the outside scene into information as a three-dimensional space, and can arrange and freely operate a gaze area within the space.

The vision training device 300 has a mounting unit 310, an image display unit 320, a control unit 330, and an image capture unit 340. The mounting unit 310 is formed in a band shape and is attached to the center of the band so that the display area of the image display unit 320 is positioned in front of both eyes.

The image display unit 320 includes a pair of training image display units 321, a left eye training image display unit 321L and a right eye training image display unit 321R. The image display unit 320 is a so-called video see-through type display unit, and the display area is formed on a liquid crystal display panel. The image display unit 320 includes a communication unit (not shown) and is capable of short-range wireless communication with the control unit 330.

Although detailed illustrations are omitted, the left eye training image display unit 321L will be taken as an example (the right eye training image display unit 321R is formed symmetrically). As an example, the liquid crystal display panel is placed in front of the wearer's eyes, and displays a mixed reality image generated based on an outside scene image. The outside scene image is captured by the image capture unit 340.

The control unit 330 includes an operation unit 331, an operation display unit 332, and an image control unit 333. The image control unit 333 receives operations from the wearer and controls the display of training images by the image display unit 320. Here, the control unit 330 is configured separately, and communicates with the image display unit 320 via a communication unit 336.

The image capturing unit 340 includes a pair of image capturing units, a left eye image capturing unit 340L and a right eye image capturing unit 340R, which are arranged so as to cover the same range as the visual fields of the left and right eyes, and capture outside scene images (stereo images) for the left and right eyes, respectively. Note that, since the pair of image capturing units is arranged so as to cover the same range as the visual fields of the left and right eyes, visually induced motion sickness is suppressed, allowing for comfortable training.

Figure 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to embodiment 3. The image control unit 333 has a CPU that functions as a training image control unit 334, a memory such as a RAM or ROM that functions as a storage unit 335, a communication unit 336, and an input/output unit 337.

The training image control unit 334 acquires the outside scene image captured by the image capturing unit 340, extracts feature information (points, lines, markers, etc.) from the image, measures the position and orientation of the object if necessary, determines the gaze area, and generates a training image by superimposing the visibility-modified image on the outside scene image.

18 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the visual acuity training tool according to the third embodiment. In the display area of the visual acuity training tool 300, a gaze area M and a non-gaze area N having lower visibility than the gaze area M are formed by displaying the illustrated training image 571. The training image 571 includes an outside scene image P and a visibility-changed image superimposed on the outside scene image P. As shown in the figure, the gaze area M is a part of the outside scene image P, i.e., an area that is easy to see in the outside scene that is indirectly seen by being displayed in the display area, and the non-gaze area N is a part of the outside scene image P that is difficult to see. In the training image 571, for example, the part corresponding to the gaze area M in the outside scene image P is left as it is, and the part corresponding to the non-gaze area N can be reduced in visibility by, for example, filling it with an approximate color or a dark color, changing it to a dark color at every predetermined pixel unit, or changing it all to a dark color.
The display area may display an emphasis frame or figure (such as an arrow, a star, a dot, a circle, or multiple circles) around the gaze area M. Such an emphasis display may be included in the training image and displayed by displaying the training image.

The training image set includes two or more pairs of such training images, i.e., two or more pairs of left eye training images and right eye training images, and the gaze areas M of the left eye training images and the gaze areas M of the right eye training images are different from each other. As in the above example, the gaze areas M are different in size or position from each other, and preferably vary in a vertical direction, horizontal direction, diagonal direction, or a combination of these directions. By displaying such a training image set in front of the wearer's eyes using the visual acuity training device 300, it is possible to encourage a predetermined movement of the wearer's eyes, which makes it easy to train the eye muscles and improve dynamic visual acuity. In addition, the movement of the eyes covers a wide range, which also trains the brain's recognition and prevents the field of view from narrowing.

The vision training device 300 is easy to operate. In addition, because you can train while looking at the outside world, you can use it casually without getting bored.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the visual acuity training device according to embodiment 3. The visual acuity training device 300 may include a body movement detection unit 73 that detects hand movement. The wearer moves his/her hand so as to vary the gaze area M in the training image, and the movement is detected by the operation detection unit 343, and a training image is generated that corresponds to the gaze area according to the movement, allowing the wearer to operate as if the hand were moving the gaze area M in space. The visual acuity training device 300 may detect movements of the feet, back muscles, etc. by the body movement detection unit 73, and generate training images in conjunction with these movements.

<Embodiment 4>
20 is an external view showing an example of a visual acuity training device 400 according to embodiment 4. The visual acuity training device 400 is a training device that displays training images in a state where the field of vision is covered 360 degrees, and provides a sense of immersion. In the visual acuity training device 400, a part of the training image displayed in the display area is difficult to see.

The visual acuity training device 400 has a mounting unit 410, an image display unit 420, and a control unit 430. The mounting unit 410 is mounted on the head so that the display area of the image display unit 420 is positioned in front of both eyes, and has a band 411 and a housing 412.

The image display unit 420 is disposed within the housing 412 and includes a pair of training image display units, a left eye training image display unit and a right eye training image display unit. The image display unit 420 includes a communication unit (not shown) and is capable of short-range wireless communication with the control unit 430.

Although detailed illustrations are omitted, each training image display unit has an eyepiece lens for widening the wearer's field of vision and a liquid crystal display panel for displaying images. A partition member is provided between the left and right training image display units.

The control unit 430 includes an operation unit 431, an operation display unit 432, and an image control unit 433. The image control unit 433 receives operations from the wearer and controls the display of training images by the image display unit 420. Here, the control unit 430 is configured separately, and communicates with the image display unit 420 via a communication unit 436.

Figure 21 is a block diagram showing an example of a visual acuity training device according to embodiment 4. The image control unit 433 has a CPU that functions as a training image control unit 434, a memory such as a RAM or ROM that functions as a storage unit 435, a communication unit 436, and an input/output unit 437.

22 is a diagram showing an example of a training image of the visual acuity training tool according to the fourth embodiment. In the display area of the visual acuity training tool 400, a gaze area M and a non-gaze area N having lower visibility than the gaze area M are formed by displaying the illustrated training image 581. The training image 581 includes an image Q and a visibility-changing image superimposed on the image Q. As shown in the figure, it can be said that the gaze area M is a part of the image Q that is easy to see, and the non-gaze area N is a part of the image Q that is difficult to see. For example, the training image 581 can reduce visibility by leaving the part corresponding to the gaze area M of the image Q acquired from the outside by the training image control unit 434 via the communication unit 436 as it is, and by, for example, filling in an approximate color or a dark color, changing the color to a dark color at every predetermined pixel unit, or changing the whole area to a dark color.
The display area may display an emphasis frame or figure (such as an arrow, a star, a dot, a circle, or multiple circles) around the gaze area M. Such an emphasis display may be included in the training image and displayed by displaying the training image.

The training image set includes two or more pairs of such training images, i.e., two or more pairs of left eye training images and right eye training images, and the gaze areas M of the left eye training images and the gaze areas M of the right eye training images are different from each other. As in the above example, the gaze areas M are different in size or position from each other, and preferably move in the vertical direction, horizontal direction, diagonal direction, or a combination of these directions. By displaying such a training image set in front of the wearer's eyes, the visual acuity training device 400 can encourage the wearer's eyes to make a predetermined movement, easily training the eye muscles and improving dynamic visual acuity. In addition, the movement of the eyes covers a wide range of the line of sight, which also trains the brain's recognition and prevents the field of view from narrowing.

The vision training device 300 is easy to operate. In addition, the scene viewed changes as the gaze area changes, making it easy to use and less tiring.

<Embodiment 5>
A visual acuity training device according to one embodiment of the present invention is worn on the head of a wearer and displays an object display to train the visual acuity of the wearer so that the wearer does not miss an object to be noted.

The visual acuity training device of this embodiment uses, for example, the visual acuity training device of embodiment 3 above, and includes a target display unit instead of the training image display unit, and a target control unit instead of the training image control unit. Below, differences from the above example will be mainly explained, and explanations of commonalities will be omitted as appropriate. Note that the training image display unit and training image control unit of the above embodiment may be used in common, equipped with the functions of the target display unit and target control unit.

The target control unit acquires an outside scene image captured by the image capturing unit, and detects objects in the outside scene. Target objects are registered in advance in the memory unit, and the target control unit determines whether an object in the outside scene matches the target object to identify an object that should be noted. The target control unit determines a target display S to be given to the identified object that should be noted, and causes the target display unit to display an image in which the target display S is superimposed on the outside scene image.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the object display of the visual acuity training device according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 23(a), when training is performed so as not to miss an object to be focused on in a ball game, as an example, the opponent's ball and racket are specified as the object to be focused on, and object displays S1 and S2 are determined and displayed according to the size of the ball and racket, respectively. The object displays S1 and S2 are, for example, rectangular red frames. The object display S2 may include the opponent's hand holding the racket within the frame. The object displays S1 and S2 are displayed in accordance with changes in the outside scene, that is, so as to follow the opponent's movement. By displaying in this way, the wearer can train so as not to miss the opponent's racket or ball to be focused on in a ball game. The color or shape of the object display may be changed depending on the object to be focused on. For example, if the object display S1 of the ball is a round red frame and the object display S2 of the racket is a square yellow frame, the brain can more easily distinguish the object to be focused on through repeated training.
Also, in addition to the frame lines, shapes (arrows, stars, dots, circles, multiple circles, etc.) may be displayed.

As shown in the figure, when serving in a ball game, it is necessary to determine the opponent's style of serve (e.g., slice serve, spin serve, etc.), and the relative positions of the ball and the body (e.g., face) can serve as a guide, so an arrow indicating the relative positions may be additionally displayed as an object display S3 for training purposes. By displaying an object in this way, the wearer's line of sight can be guided, and eyesight can be trained so that the key points for determining the opponent's movements are not overlooked.

The target control unit may analyze the external scene image captured by the image capturing unit, and may use a target display such as an arrow to indicate the direction of the next target to focus on, and guide the gaze in that direction. For example, in a doubles ball game, if the opponent's forward player does not poach, the gaze must be quickly shifted to the opponent's back player, and if the forward player does not hit the ball but the back player does, it must be determined whether the opponent's forward player will poach. Therefore, by training to guide the gaze using a target display, early improvement can be expected.

As shown in FIG. 23(b), when the target object to be focused on is far away, the target control unit may determine a portion of the outside scene image to be enlarged, and may enlarge that portion and display it superimposed on the target display.

As described above, the detection method involves attaching markers to objects, such as balls and rackets, in order to detect each object, and then detecting these to identify their orientation, position, and type, making it easier to detect with greater accuracy.
Additionally, the condition in which something is visible but difficult to recognize is said to be caused by psychological factors or unconscious brain selection (scotoma), and this could serve as a way to strengthen training so as not to overlook objects that should be of interest.

The visual acuity training device of the above-mentioned embodiment 2 may be used with an image capturing unit, a target display unit instead of the training image display unit, and a target control unit instead of the training image control unit. In this case, the target display is displayed against the outside scenery that is viewed directly through the display area. The visual acuity training device of the above-mentioned embodiment 4 may be used with an image capturing unit, a target display unit instead of the training image display unit, and a target control unit instead of the training image control unit.

Based on the above description, a person skilled in the art may be able to conceive of additional effects and various modifications of the present invention, but the aspects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment examples. Various additions, modifications, and partial deletions are possible within the scope of the conceptual idea and intent of the present invention derived from the contents defined in the claims and their equivalents.

100, 200, 300, 400 Vision training device 110, 210, 310, 410 Mounting unit 120, 220, 320, 420 Image display unit 130, 230, 330, 440 Control unit 133, 233, 333, 433 Image control unit 500, 510, 520, 530 Training image set

Claims (2)

A visual acuity training device that is worn on the head and trains eye muscles,
A mounting portion and
an image display unit that is attached to the head by the attachment unit so that a display area is disposed in front of the eyes;
In the display area, training images of a training image set are sequentially displayed, and a gaze area and a non-gaze area having a lower visibility than the gaze area are formed by displaying the training images,
The training image set includes two or more left eye training images and/or two or more right eye training images, the gaze regions of the left eye training images are different from each other, and the gaze regions of the right eye training images are different from each other,
The non-gaze area is a part of an outside scene that is indirectly viewed by displaying the training image in the display area, and is difficult to view;
the training image is a mixed reality image generated based on a left eye outside scene image and a right eye outside scene image,
In the display area, the training image set is displayed by sequentially switching the training images so that the size of the fixation area changes , and the training image set is repeatedly displayed during one training session.
A visual acuity training device characterized by 2. The visual acuity training device according to claim 1,
The training image set is displayed such that the size of the fixation region changes from large to small for one of the left and right eyes and the size of the fixation region changes from small to large for the other eye.
A visual acuity training device characterized by