In the eye clinic it is it is often important to measure possible misalignment between the eyes. In a healthy person the eyes normally point to the same location, however in a whole range of eye problems this is not the case. This can be a simple displacement of one eye, a so called squint, or there can be a further rotational (torsional) misalignment.

Alternating Frame Stereoscopy is a technique that allows different images to be presented to each eye using just one CRT monitor. Electronic shutter glasses open and close over each eye, such that alternate video frames are seen by each eye. Using special high-speed CRT monitors with rapid decay phosphors and rapid switching ferro-electric shutter goggles, excellent disassociation of the images to each eye can be achieved. The separate images presented to each eye should be seen as one image; however those suffering from a squint will perceive two separate images. By manipulating the position and orientation of the image presented to one eye, the patient can be made to perceive a single image. The amount that the image is translated and rotated by gives a measure of the eye’s deviation.

This project involves developing software using Matlab and the Cambridge Research Systems VSG Toolbox to make a series of measurements to map deviation and torsion across the range of eye movements, and to present the results graphically. An important part of the project will involve investigating alternate graphical representations. As well as developing the software the student will be expected to be involved in initial testing of the system in cooperation with Moorfields Eye Hospital, and refining the software based upon their experiences.

So far, my placement at Cambridge research systems has been an enjoyable and exciting experience.My colleagues here, and my bosses, have been very understanding and a pleasure to work with.

Right from day one, students working here are given ownership of their projects. With assisstance from helpful staff whenever necessary, you are given more than enough time to work through necessary tutorials etc, to learn about the equipment and software you'll be working with. I have found this ideal, as the help- provided in the form of tutorials- is enough to get you started soon, and equip you to continue to learn, as you simultaneously progress through your project. The placement has given me great opportunities to work with state of the art equipment, such as the VSG and stereo goggles, which would otherwise be inaccessible to students.

On my placement, I had the opportunity to travel into London to Moorfields eye hospital, to get a better idea of what it was I was trying to achieve.

This not only motivated me by showing how my work could eventually help people and save the NHS some money, but it also allowed me to begin to have a few of my own ideas of how the project might be put together.

Aside from the work itself, again, the staff here are all friendly and welcoming, and given the accessible transport routes here, and particularly the abundance of provided food, I'm glad I got a placement here!

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