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iCrutch: Addressing the Therapeutic Challenges of Nystagmus
- Program: Biomedical Engineering
- Course: EN.580.X12 BME Design Team
- Year: 2025
Project Description:
Acquired nystagmus is a condition characterized by repetitive, involuntary eye movements that impair visual stability and quality of life. Current treatments, including pharmacological therapy and surgery, are often ineffective, non-specific, and unable to adapt to progressive symptom changes. Here, we present a real-time eye-tracking system that detects nystagmus, classifies its subtype using machine learning, and computes a corrective motion vector. The system integrates infrared cameras with Fourier-based processing to distinguish pathological oscillations from voluntary gaze shifts, achieving 99% detection accuracy with a 10 ms response latency. A computational model predicts the necessary counteracting motion to stabilize gaze, mapping corrective movements to extraocular muscles. Preliminary results demonstrate high precision in nystagmus classification and motion compensation, establishing a foundation for future electrode-based stimulation therapies. This system represents a step toward adaptive, closed-loop therapies.
Project Photo:
Our project, iCrutch, is a wearable device for individuals with nystagmus, using implanted electrodes to correct involuntary eye movements in real-time. The logo features a human eye and circuit lines, symbolizing the innovation of our device that is focused on improving visual focus and quality of life.
