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Vmax Vision’s Perfectus performs both objectiveand subjective refractions in one seating at one device. Once the examiner obtains the objective, he or she can complete the subjective refraction in about 30 seconds to get to 20/20 and about a minute to get to 20/12.
The 20/20 Now system offers a hybrid approach in which a patient sits at an automated phoropter in an eye doctor’s offi ce and a technician conducts the refraction remotely, using a video screen to communicate with the patient.
The Digital VisionOptimizer from Digital Vision Systems contains an objective autorefractometer and can perform subjective refractions with a resolution of .05 diopters.
The Perfectus from Vmax Vision is a refractive device that looks nothing like any of the other digital refraction technology—that is, a manual phoropter but only with a plastic skin for a sleeker, higher-tech look. The Perfectus looks more like a pregnant autorefractor. Perfectus uses a point spread function (PSF) target rather than the traditional Snellen letters, which enables a subjective refraction that can be measured to 0.05 D and 0.5-degree increments for axis angles.

Vmax Vision claims that it is five times more precise than a traditional lens-and-dial phoropter. In a paper presented at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons in 2013, ophthalmologist Alison Gordon, MD, who had been using the device for two years, reported that of 10 patients (20 eyes) tested, 19 eyes were able to read an average of 2.5 and 3.4 additional letters/targets in the right and left eyes, respectively.

The Perfectus performs both the objective and subjective refraction in one seating at one device. Once the examiner obtains the objective, he or she can complete the subjective refraction in about 30 seconds to get to 20/20 and about a minute to get to 20/12.

Another new approach to digital refraction is the 20/20 Now system. The system offers a hybrid approach in which a patient sits at an automated phoropter in an eye doctor’s office and a technician conducts the refraction remotely, using a video screen to communicate with the patient. The 20/20 Now company has already placed the system in a retail location in New York City and plans a national roll-out.

Then there is the Digital VisionOptimizer (DVO), which is being developed by Digital Vision Systems, an Atlanta-based company that describes it as “the industry’s first vertically-integrated exam-product solution for delivering premium vision care and corrective eyeglasses.” The system contains an objective autorefractometer and can perform subjective refractions with a resolution of .05 diopters, much higher than conventional phoropters.

According to company founder Keith Thompson, MD, the DVO will offer three new capabilities: proprietary ultra high-definition digitally surfaced eyeglasses fabricated by DVS’ lens manufacturing partners that will have 25 times greater resolution than phoropter-based eyewear to provide consumers with superior eyesight and wearing comfort; a proprietary preview, compare and select emulator that allows customers to interactively customize the features of their eyeglasses for work and leisure; and a telehealth capability that will enable optometrists, ophthalmologists and opticians to consult with patients via the internet.

“The DVO allows patients to see the real optical effects of lens enhancements such as polarized filters, photochromic, AR, blue blocking using real world scenes,” explained Dr. Thompson, an ophthalmologist. He also noted that “the DVO has a powerful white light engine that can emulate real discomforting glare like you would see on a bright sunny day on a lake; the wearer can then customize their lens to the level of polarization they need.”

National Vision is currently beta-testing DVO and plans to introduce it in its stores in 2016, Dr. Thompson told VM. He said Digital Vision has also partnered with lens makers Hoya, VSP and BluTech.