Method for establishing fixation employing speech recognition

Abstract

The present invention provides a method for establishing fixation during computerized visual field perimetry, requiring the subject to verbally identify the symbol employed as fixation targets as they each appear. Speech recognition techniques are then employed to evaluate the subject's response, and, upon correctly identifying the fixation symbol, a visual test stimulus is displayed at a predetermined location within the subject's field of vision. Fixation is established by displaying to the subject fixation targets represented by varying symbols, which may be displayed at one or more locations on a display monitor. These so-called fixation symbols, include geometrical shapes, letters, numbers, pictures or other symbols readily identifiable by the subject. When a fixation symbol appears, the subject verbally identifies the symbol by saying the name of the symbol into a microphone. Using speech recognition, the system recognizes the response from the subject, and evaluates whether the symbol was correctly identified by the subject. Upon being correctly identified, the fixation symbol disappears, and a flashing visual test stimulus is displayed within the subject's field of view for a preset time.