Product features

The blink detection subsystem constitutes the most important of the BlinkBridge. It is responsible for detecting the precise blinking movement of the eye on the non paralyzed side. It then processes  the emitted signals required to stimulate the paralyzed eye. 

 Requirements

The blink detection subsystem needs to meet some important requirements:

Firstly, High Detection Accuracy: It must be able to constantly detect the functional eye”s blinks regardless of environment constraints such as changing lighting conditions. 

Secondly, Non-Intrusiveness: It needs to work smoothly without blocking the user's vision or causing any kind of irritation.

Lastly, Energy efficiency: Its energy consumption must be as low as possible to ensure long-term usage.

 Technologies and Methods

sensors: for detecting the eye’s blinking motion, infrared sensors are used. They measure changes in reflected infrared light during eyelid movement.

Signal processing: the signals from the sensors are analyzed and then filtered in order to separate voluntary blinks from surrounding interference.

Microcontroller integration: after the processing phase, the signal is then sent to the microcontroller for executing next operations.

 Conceptualization

This subsystem, the blink detection subsystem, was made to fit effortlessly within the glasses’frame without any issue.

to ensure that: 

The IR sensors are placed near the functional eye to at the exact time when there is a blinking movement of the working eye.

Signals amplifiers and filters are used for better accuracy of the blink detection 

Even when there are environmental changes, the system remains stable and works consistently. 

 Physical Architecture

This sub-system is composed of:

IR Sensors: Placed on the glasses frame in a way that they detect blinking without obstructing the user’s vision.

Signal Processing Circuitry: Compact, lightweight electronics housed within the frame.

Power Source: A shared lithium-ion battery provides power for sensors and signal processing.

Materialization

Components such as IR sensors, operational amplifiers, and resistors are assembled and integrated into the frame.

The circuit board is 3D-printed for compactness and durability.

 Evaluation

Testing: Validate blink detection accuracy under varying light and motion conditions.

User Feedback: Gather input on comfort and usability.

Adjustments: Optimize sensor placement and signal filtering based on testing results.

Stimulation Sub-System

The stimulation subsystem copies and reproduces the motion of the natural blinking in order to stimulate the orbicularis oculi muscle of the paralyzed eye. It works together at the same time with the blink detection subsystem to recover and maintain facial symmetry. 

Technologies and Methods

Gel adhesive electrodes are used to transmit the electrical signal to stimulate the orbicularis oculi muscle.

The microcontroller, which is the signal generator, produces a pulse-width modulated signal(PWM signal) that controls the stimulation process.

for the safety circuitry, current and voltage limiters are integrated to protect the user from any harm.

Conceptualization

The design of the stimulation  subsystem is made by considering two important factors:

Electrodes are placed around the paralyzed eye in an ergonomically sound manner.

The microcontroller processes input from the Blink Detection Sub-System to generate stimulated signals to the unfunctional eye .

Physical Architecture

This sub-system includes:

Electrodes: Comfortable and reusable, placed to target the orbicularis oculi muscle.

Signal Generator: Integrated into the frame, delivering safe and effective stimulation signals.

Power source: Both the Blink detection and the stimulation subsystems utilize the same power supply  to minimize the energy use.

Materialization

The testing and calibration of the electrodes and the signal generator are performed to guarantee safety during the use of the device.

The device is designed and  built in a way that it prioritizes user comfort and also its long-term durability.

Evaluation

Safety Testing: Verify compliance with IEC 60601-2-10 standards.

Functional Testing: Confirm stimulation accuracy and synchronization with detected blinks.

User Feedback: Ensure the system is comfortable during extended use.