RU237178U1 - A barbell machine for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training the eye muscles - Google Patents

Abstract

The utility model relates to medicine, to the field of neurology, neuropsychology, and ophthalmology, and can find application in conducting classes on the restoration of impaired eye movement processes in neurological patients with visual agnosia, as well as for training the eye muscles for the purpose of preventing visual impairment when working on a computer, and classes aimed at improving visual acuity in various diseases associated with impaired functioning of the eye muscles. The utility model is a device consisting of a rod made in the form of a core (1) with a smooth outer surface, at the ends of which a first tip (2) and a second tip (3) are rigidly fixed, and on the rod (1) a control element (4) with a through hole is placed with the possibility of free movement, intended for fixing the gaze and controlling the eye movement of the student, wherein the first and second tips (2, 3) are intended for holding the device with the fingers of the hands, as well as for fixing the gaze and controlling the eye movement of the student. Thus, the proposed "Barbell Trainer" is a simple-to-manufacture and easy-to-use device that allows for training sessions aimed at both the central and peripheral visual systems. Using the "Barbell Trainer" expands the possibilities of training sessions aimed at restoring impaired eye movement and training the eye muscles, as from the very first sessions, the process is carried out using an external device that facilitates eye movement control and eye muscle training, making the training process more interesting and engaging for those involved.

Description

The utility model relates to medicine, to the field of neurology, neuropsychology, and ophthalmology, and can be used in conducting classes to restore the impaired process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia, as well as for training the eye muscles for the purpose of preventing visual impairment when working on a computer, and classes aimed at improving visual acuity in various diseases associated with impaired functioning of the eye muscles.

The process of eye movements is one of the necessary components that ensures the functioning of the human visual analyzer, in the functioning of which the normal functioning of the eye muscles plays an important role.

The visual analyzer is a complex neuroreceptor system that perceives and analyzes visual stimuli. It consists of three sections: peripheral (the eye), conductive (the optic nerve, optic and subcortical nerve structures), and central (the visual cortex) (Dictionary of Correctional Pedagogy and Special Psychology. Visual Analyzer, found online at https://correction_pedagogy.academic.ru/741/Зрительный_анализатор).

One of the disorders of the central part of the visual analyzer is visual agnosia, which occurs with damage to the occipital and frontal parts of the cerebral cortex, as a result of which patients have difficulty perceiving "noisy" images of objects and, with more severe damage to the occipital parts of the cerebral cortex, also real objects and objects.

The process of visual perception has a complex structure and can be disrupted due to damage to its various components.

One of the important components necessary for the normal functioning of visual perception is the process of eye movements that trace the contour of the perceived object or subject, and perform a number of other complex movements during the perception of various objects and subjects (Yarbus A.L. The role of eye movements in the process of image perception. Moscow: Nauka, 1965).

In the cerebral cortex there are two oculomotor "centers" that control gaze movements: the posterior "center" is located in the parietal-occipital regions of the cerebral cortex and serves for the reflex regulation of gaze movements, ensuring the act of fixation and tracking of a moving point, and the anterior "center" is located in the middle sections of the premotor zone (Brodmann's area 8) and is the apparatus that regulates voluntary translation of the eyes and active searching movements of the gaze (Luria A.R. Lectures on General Psychology, St. Petersburg: Piter, 2006).

Currently, various methods are used to restore the impaired process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia.

Thus, a well-known method of M.G. Khrakovskaya is designed to restore the process of eye movements, their optomotor activity in neurological patients with visual perception disorders. In the early stages of work according to this method, tasks are used aimed at restoring eye movements according to automated reading algorithms: from left to right and top to bottom, line by line. Gradually, during the course of lessons, the volume of visual information and the complexity of the tasks increase. This type of tasks allows for increasing readiness for perception due to the regulation of movement and fixation of gaze. Further tasks are used aimed at identifying and classifying the details of objects according to given visual characteristics, etc. (Khrakovskaya M.G. Optimization of neuropsychological rehabilitation strategies using the example of restoration of visual gnosis. // Neurorehabilitation-2009: Proceedings of the I International Congress. - M., 2009. - P. 48).

The disadvantages of this method when used for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training the eye muscles, are:

a) this technique is based on the use of automated eye movement algorithms, without the use of any additional external means that make it easier for the patient to control eye movement;

b) this technique provides the possibility of restoring eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material;

c) this technique helps train the eye muscles that ensure eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material.

L.S. Tsvetkova's method is also well-known, designed to restore reading skills in cases of eye movement disorders. This method is based on the use of an additional external aid that guides the patient's gaze and facilitates the impaired eye movement process. This external aid is a special cardboard frame placed over a word, leaving the entire word or a few of its letters visible for the patient to read. The frame then gradually moves along the line from word to word, guiding the patient's gaze and engaging intact kinesthetic sensations (L.S. Tsvetkova, "Restorative Training for Localized Brain Lesions." Moscow: Pedagogy, 1972).

The disadvantages of this method when used for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training the eye muscles, are:

a) this technique is intended only for the restoration of eye movements in case of reading process disorders;

b) this technique provides the possibility of restoring eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material;

c) this technique helps train the eye muscles that ensure eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material.

Also known is the method of L.E. Selyavko, designed to restore the impaired process of eye movements based on the use of the "Methodological manual "Linear simulator for group classes to restore the impaired process of eye movements and voluntary attention in neurological patients" (Patent RU 109874 S dated 07/24/2018).

This manual contains worksheets in the form of circles connected by lines. One patient writes the letters of a phrase into these circles, while the other patient reads them, moving their gaze along the lines connecting the circles with the letters inscribed within them in various directions (horizontal, vertical, diagonal). A pointer is used as an external aid to facilitate the patient's impaired eye movement (Selyavko, L.E., Neuropsychological Manual "Linear Trainer for Exercises to Restore Impaired Eye Movement and Voluntary Attention," Methodological Almanac "Neurorehabilitator" No. 1. Moscow: Sputnik+ Publishing House, 2020. pp. 52-55).

The disadvantages of this method when used for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training the eye muscles, are:

a) this method is intended for conducting group sessions with neurological patients;

b) this technique provides the possibility of restoring eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material;

c) this technique helps train the eye muscles that ensure eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material.

Thus, the methods discussed above promote training of the eye muscles that ensure eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material, and are not intended to train the eye muscle (ciliary muscle), which ensures clear perception of objects located in space at different distances from the person practicing.

The ciliary muscle (ciliary muscle) is an internal muscle of the eye that has a ring-shaped form and provides accommodation for viewing objects at different distances (Wikipedia. Ciliary muscle, found on the Internet at https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Цилиарнаямыша).

Accommodation is the eye's adaptation to clearly see objects at different distances by focusing the image on the retina. When viewing an object at close range, signals are sent to the brain due to its blurred image on the retina. Stimulation from the oculomotor nerve is transmitted to the ciliary muscle, which contracts. This causes the ciliary body ring to narrow, the tension of the zonule of Zinn to weaken, and the lens, particularly its anterior surface, to become more convex. The refractive power of the eye increases, and the image of a nearby object becomes clear. When the visual axis of the eye is shifted to a distant object, irritation of the oculomotor nerve ceases, the ciliary muscle relaxes, the ciliary body ring expands, the zonule of Zinn is stretched, and the lens takes on a flatter shape (Great Russian Encyclopedia. Accommodation, found on the Internet at https://bigenc.ru/c/akkomodatsiia-aba563?ysclid= m6tfpmbicu886157737).

Along with methods based on the use of printed materials, various devices and simulators are used to restore the impaired eye movement process.

Thus, from the existing level of technology, a device is known called “A simulator for exercises to restore eye movements in patients in a neurological clinic with a disorder of the visual perception process” (Patent RU 153548 U1 dated 07/27/2015).

Structurally, this device is a plastic frame in which a sheet of working material in the form of various images (objects, labyrinths, etc.) is installed, and an eye movement control element (made of metal with magnetic properties) is installed on the surface of the sheet being used, under which a magnet is located.

When using this device, the patient moves the magnet so that the eye movement control element moves along the contours or other parts of the image being used, while tracking its movement with the gaze.

Thus, this device makes it possible to work on restoring eye movement within the plane of the worksheet. However, eye movement is a more complex process, enabling visual perception not only in a plane but also in real three-dimensional space.

The disadvantages of this device when used for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as for training eye muscles, are:

a) this device provides the ability to restore eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material;

b) this device helps train the eye muscles that ensure eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material, but is not intended for training the ciliary muscle;

c) the need to use additional materials in the form of sheets with working materials.

To train the ciliary muscles of the eyes, various sets of exercises are used, one of which is, for example, the set "Visual exercises for relaxation and training of the ciliary muscle", which includes the following exercises: a) a mark with a diameter of 1.5-2 cm is put on the window glass, and the practitioner, standing at a distance of 30-35 cm from the window glass, moves his gaze from the mark to some object located outside the window at a distance of at least 5 meters, and back; b) the practitioner stretches his hand forward and looks at the tip of his index finger, after which he slowly brings the finger to his nose, without taking his eyes off it, until the finger begins to double; c) the practitioner places the finger of his right hand at face level, at a distance of 25-30 cm from his eyes and looks with both eyes at the tip of his finger for 5 seconds, covering his left eye with his hand for 5 seconds, after which he removes his palm and again looks at the finger with both eyes for 5 seconds, then changes hands. (Ophthalmology Center. Eye exercises - ciliary muscle training, found online on July 2, 2025 at https://optika-r.ru/zdorove-glaz/uprazhneniya-dlya-glaz-trenirovka-ciliarnoy-myshtsy/).

The disadvantages of these exercises when used for training in restoring impaired eye movement processes, as well as training the eye muscles, are:

a) these exercises are not intended for training in restoring impaired eye movement processes;

b) these exercises provide training only for the ciliary muscles of the eyes;

c) in these exercises, the fingers of the hand are used as an element for fixing the gaze of the practitioner and controlling the process of eye movement.

Along with the exercises discussed above, various devices and exercise machines are also used to train the ciliary muscles of the eyes.

Thus, from the existing level of technology, a device “Trainer for the correction of presbyopia” is known (RU 138750 U1 from 03/20/2014).

Structurally, this device is a hollow tube with a diameter of 15 mm and a length of 240 mm with a longitudinal slot, while plugs are installed on both sides of the tube, and a ball with a diameter of 12 mm is placed inside it.

When using this device, the practitioner holds it perpendicularly at a distance of 15-30 cm from the eyes, so that the ball is visible through the tube's slit. By rocking the tube along its longitudinal axis, the patient sets the ball in motion. The ball moves away from the eyes and back, at a speed the practitioner adjusts to ensure convergence of the eye axes and bifixation of the ball as it approaches without causing discomfort. The closer the distance and the slower the speed of the ball, the more effective the effect on the ciliary muscles.

By continuously tracking the ball moving forward and backward perpendicular to the eyes for a short period of time and by using it daily and repeatedly, it has a direct effect on the ciliary muscles, restoring their tone and correcting vision in presbyopia.

Thus, this device provides the opportunity to train the ciliary muscles of the eyes due to the possibility of free movement of the ball in the cavity of the tube and tracking its movement through a longitudinal slot.

The disadvantages of this device when used for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as for training eye muscles, are:

a) this device is not intended for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes;

b) this device is intended for training only the ciliary muscles of the eyes;

c) the ability to perform only one exercise with the device;

d) the difficulty of conducting classes with bedridden neurological patients.

Also known from the existing level of technology is the device “Trainer for exercises to restore eye movements in patients with visual-object agnosia” (Patent RU 160587 U1 dated 03/27/2016).

Structurally, this device is a handle movably mounted on a flat stand, in the upper and lower parts of which two groups of telescopically connected tubes are located, while the end of the central tube, located in the lower part of the handle, is connected to the stand, and to the end of the central tube, located in the upper part of the handle, an eye movement control element is attached, which is a ball with a diameter of 10-20 mm.

During the exercises, this device is placed on the surface of the table, and the ball is raised to a height (by moving the upper tubes) corresponding to the eye level of the patient, who, holding the handle with one hand, begins to slowly move the ball, tracking its movement with his gaze.

This movement can be carried out in a plane either parallel or perpendicular to the patient’s face, or be of a more complex circular nature with periodic alternation of the direction of rotation.

At the same time, the patient, holding the stand of the device with one hand, smoothly lifts the ball by the handle with the other hand (pushing apart the lower tubes) above eye level, after which he also lowers it below eye level, as a result of which vertical movements are added to the trajectory of the ball's movement.

Thus, this device provides the ability to continuously track a ball with the gaze, performing complex movements in three spatial coordinates.

An important feature of this device is that it provides the ability to work aimed at both restoring the process of eye movements carried out under the control of the oculomotor “centers” of the brain (included in the central section of the visual analyzer), and work aimed at training the eye muscles (included in the peripheral section of the visual analyzer).

The disadvantages of this device when used for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training the eye muscles, are:

a) the possibility of using this device only if there is a horizontal surface;

b) the difficulty of conducting classes with bedridden neurological patients;

c) the technical complexity of this device, which consists of two groups of telescopically connected tubes located in the handle.

In order to overcome the shortcomings of the above-mentioned devices and training machines, a device called "Barbell Trainer for Exercises to Restore the Disturbed Process of Eye Movements, as well as Training the Eye Muscles" (hereinafter referred to as the "Barbell Trainer") has been developed. This device is easy to use and provides the opportunity to conduct exercises aimed at both restoring the process of eye movements (implemented under the control of the oculomotor "centers" of the brain, which are part of the central section of the visual analyzer), and exercises aimed at training the eye muscles (which are part of the peripheral section of the visual analyzer).

The tasks that the declared technical solution is aimed at solving are:

a) the versatility of the “Barbell Trainer”, which provides the possibility of conducting exercises aimed at both the central and peripheral sections of the visual analyzer, which allows its use in various areas of medical rehabilitation;

b) providing the opportunity to conduct classes to restore the impaired process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia;

c) providing the opportunity to train the eye muscles to prevent visual impairment when working on a computer;

d) providing the opportunity to train the eye muscles to improve visual acuity in various diseases associated with dysfunction of the eye muscles;

d) providing the opportunity for the trainee to see the movement of the eye movement control element in different positions of the “Barbell Trainer”;

e) providing the opportunity to perform various exercises to restore the impaired process of eye movements, as well as training the eye muscles, using the “Barbell Trainer”;

g) providing the opportunity to conduct classes with the “Barbell machine” for bedridden neurological patients;

c) providing the opportunity to conduct independent training using the “Barbell Trainer”.

The technical result of the claimed utility model is an expansion of the arsenal of devices designed for work aimed at both the central and peripheral sections of the visual analyzer, implemented through the design elements of the claimed "Barbell Trainer", providing the possibility of conducting classes on the restoration of the impaired process of eye movements with a wide contingent of neurological patients with visual agnosia, including bedridden patients, as well as classes on training the eye muscles for the prevention of visual impairment when working on a computer, and classes on training the eye muscles to improve visual acuity in various diseases associated with disorders of the eye muscles.

This technical result is achieved due to the fact that the "Barbell Trainer" is a device consisting of a barbell made in the form of a rod with a smooth outer surface, at the ends of which a first tip and a second tip are rigidly fixed, and on the rod a control element with a through hole is placed with the possibility of free movement, designed to fix the gaze and control the movement of the eyes of the exerciser, wherein the first and second tips are designed to hold the device with the fingers of the hands, as well as to fix the gaze and control the movement of the eyes of the exerciser.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the first tip is made in the form of a three-dimensional geometric figure.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the first tip is made in the form of an object.

In the preferred version of the "Barbell Trainer", the second tip is made in the form of a three-dimensional geometric figure.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the second tip is made in the form of an object.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the control element is designed in the form of a torus.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the control element is designed in the form of a ring.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the control element is designed in the form of a three-dimensional geometric figure.

In the preferred embodiment of the "Barbell Trainer", the control element is in the form of an object.

The essence of the utility model "Barbell exercise machine for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training eye muscles" is explained by a drawing, which depicts:

Fig. 1 shows a general view of the "Barbell Trainer".

The claimed "Barbell Exercise Machine" (see Fig. 1) is a device consisting of a barbell made in the form of a rod (1) with a smooth outer surface, at the ends of which a first tip (2) and a second tip (3) are rigidly fixed, and on the rod (1) a control element (4) with a through hole is placed with the possibility of free movement (by sliding), intended for fixing the gaze and controlling the eye movement of the person exercising (a patient with an eye movement disorder or visual acuity, as well as a healthy person training vision), wherein the first and second tips (2, 3) are intended for holding the device with the fingers of the hands, as well as for fixing the gaze and controlling the eye movement of the person exercising.

The term "rod" refers to "a long, usually metal rod (used as a component in many tools, mechanisms, structures, etc.)" (Runiversalis Encyclopedia. Dictionary: rod, found online at https://runi.rf/Словарь:штанга).

The term "rod" is understood as "an object of elongated shape that is the axis of something or the base that supports or carries something" (Ushakov's Explanatory Dictionary. Rod, found on the Internet at https://dic.academic.ru/dic.nsf/ushakov/1043066).

The term "tip" refers to "a small object attached to or placed on the end of another object" (Wiktionary: Tip, found online at https://ru.wiktionary.org/wiki/наконечник).

The term "glance" refers to "the direction, the gaze directed toward someone or something" (Efremova's Modern Explanatory Dictionary of the Russian Language. Glance, found on the Internet at https://dic.academic.ru/dic.nsf/efremova/146522/Взор).

The dimensions of this particular "Barbell Machine" given below are not intended to limit the scope of legal protection, as they may change during the course of its creation.

The rod (1) of the "Barbell Trainer" has a round cross-section and can be made of hard plastic (e.g. PVC), light metal (e.g. aluminum), wood or other material.

The outer diameter of the rod (1) ranges from 5 to 15 millimeters or more, and its length can range from 250 to 750 millimeters or more.

The rod (1) can be hollow (with a longitudinal hole inside) or solid (without a longitudinal hole inside). If the rod (1) is hollow, its wall thickness can be 1-3 mm.

The rod (1) has a smooth outer surface, which allows the control element (4) to slide easily along its surface, which can move freely along the entire length of the rod (1) between the first and second tips (2, 3) when the “Barbell Trainer” is tilted.

The first and second tips (2, 3) fixed to the ends of the rod (1) can be made of plastic, metal, wood, rubber or other material.

The shape of each of the tips (2, 3) should ensure that it is easy to hold with the fingers of the hand, as well as the possibility of using each of them as a means of fixing the gaze and controlling the movement of the eyes of the practitioner during the execution of exercises of the second type (more below).

The first tip (2) can be made in the form of:

a) a three-dimensional geometric figure, for example, a sphere, cylinder, cone, convex polyhedron (dodecahedron, icosahedron) or other geometric figure that ensures its comfortable holding with the fingers of the hand;

b) a three-dimensional object, such as an apple, a flower bud, or another object that makes it easy to hold with the fingers of the hand;

c) any other object that ensures ease of holding with the fingers of the hand.

Thus, the first tip (2) can be of any of the above types.

The term "polyhedron" refers to a closed surface composed of polygons. There are different types of polyhedrons, such as the dodecahedron (a twelve-sided polyhedron), the icosahedron (an icosahedron), and so on. (Wikipedia: Polyhedron, found online at https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Многогранник.)

The term "object" refers to any specific material phenomenon perceived by the senses and thought as something distinctly existing. Seeing an object. Animate or inanimate object. Discovering an object, etc. (Website: Academician. Encyclopedic Dictionary. Object, found online at https://dic.academic.ru/dic.nsf/es/45885/predmet).

If the first tip (2) is made in the form of a ball (see Fig. 1), then its diameter can be from 20 to 50 millimeters.

If the first tip (2) is made in the form of some other three-dimensional geometric figure or object, then its length, width and height are in the range from 20 to 50 millimeters or more.

The second tip (3) can also be made in the form of:

a) a three-dimensional geometric figure, for example, a sphere, cylinder, cone, convex polyhedron (dodecahedron, icosahedron) or other geometric figure that ensures its comfortable holding with the fingers of the hand;

b) a three-dimensional object, such as an apple, a flower bud, or another object that makes it easy to hold with the fingers of the hand;

c) any other object that ensures ease of holding with the fingers of the hand.

Thus, the second tip (3) can be of any of the above types.

If the second tip (3) is made in the form of a ball (see Fig. 1), then its diameter can be from 20 to 50 millimeters.

If the second tip (3) is made in the form of some other three-dimensional geometric figure or object, then its length, width and height are in the range from 20 to 50 millimeters or more.

In this case, the first tip (2) and the second tip (3) of the “Barbell Trainer” can be:

a) completely identical, for example, when both tips (2, 3) are made in the form of two balls, identical in diameter and color (see Fig. 1);

b) identical in shape, but different in color, for example, when both tips (2, 3) are made in the form of two balls, one of which is red and the other is blue;

c) identical in shape but different in size, for example, when both tips (2, 3) are made in the form of two balls of different diameters;

d) of the same type, but different in shape and appearance, for example, when the first tip (2) is made in the form of an apple, and the second tip (3) in the form of a flower bud;

d) of different types, when the first tip (2) is made, for example, in the form of some volumetric geometric figure, and the second tip (3) is made, for example, in the form of some object.

In this case, the shape and size of the first and second tips (2, 3) should ensure that each of them can be easily held by the fingers of the practitioner’s hand.

Thus, the tips (2, 3) ensure the implementation of the following tasks: a) ease of holding the “Barbell Trainer” in various positions with the fingers of the user’s hand;

a) preventing the control element (4) from going beyond the rod (1);

b) the possibility of using it as a means of fixing the gaze and controlling the eye movement of the person practicing.

The fastening of the first and second tips (2, 3) to the ends of the rod (1) is carried out by means of, for example, a threaded connection: a) when each of the tips (2, 3) contains a hole with an internal thread, which is screwed onto an external thread made at each end of the rod (1); b) when each of the tips (2, 3) has a projection with an external thread, intended for screwing into an internal thread made in a recess at each end of the rod (1).

The fastening of the first and second tips (2, 3) to the ends of the rod (1) can also be carried out in any other way, for example, by means of an adhesive connection.

The control element (4) of the "Barbell Trainer" may be made of plastic, metal, wood, or another material and has a round through-hole through which it is movably attached to the rod (1) and is capable of free movement (sliding) along the entire length of the rod (1) between the two ends (2, 3). That is, the rod (1) passes freely through the through-hole of the control element (4), the diameter of which is at least 1-5 mm larger than the diameter of the rod (1).

The control element (4) of the “Barbell trainer” can be made in the form of:

a) torus (see Fig. 1);

b) rings;

c) a three-dimensional geometric figure, having, for example, the shape of a ball, a convex polyhedron (dodecahedron, icosahedron, spherical polyhedron) or another geometric figure with a through hole;

d) a three-dimensional object, for example, in the form of an apple, a flower or another object with a through hole;

d) any other object with a through hole that allows for fixation of the gaze and control of the student’s eye movements during the course of the lesson.

Thus, regardless of the shape, the control element (4) has a through hole with a smooth inner surface, which allows it to be installed on the rod (1) with the possibility of free movement by sliding along the entire length of the rod (1) between the first and second tips (2, 3).

The term "torus" is defined as "a geometric figure shaped like a donut or a life preserver, obtained by rotating a circle about an axis lying in its plane" (Wiktionary. Tor, found on the Internet at https://ru.wiktionary.org/wiki/тор).

The term "ring" refers to "a round object with a hole inside" (Wikipedia. Ring, found on the Internet at https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ring).

The term "polyhedron" refers to a closed surface composed of polygons. There are different types of polyhedrons, such as the dodecahedron (a twelve-sided polyhedron), the icosahedron (an icosahedron), and so on. A polyhedron is called convex if it lies entirely on one side of the plane of each of its faces (Wikipedia, "Polyhedron," found online at https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Многогранник).

The term "spherical polyhedron" refers to a tessellation of a sphere in which the surface is divided by large arcs into bounded regions called spherical polygons. The most famous example of a spherical polyhedron is the soccer ball (Wikipedia: Spherical polyhedron, found online at https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Сферический полигранник).

The term "object" refers to any specific material phenomenon perceived by the senses and thought as something distinctly existing. Seeing an object. Animate or inanimate object. Discovering an object, etc. (Website: Academician. Encyclopedic Dictionary. Object, found online at https://dic.academic.ru/dic.nsf/es/45885/predmet).

If the control element (4) is made in the form of a torus (see Fig. 1), then its outer diameter can be from 20 to 50 millimeters or more.

If the control element (4) is made in the form of a ring, then its outer diameter can be from 15 to 35 millimeters or more, and the width from 10 to 20 millimeters or more.

If the control element (4) is made in the form of a ball, its diameter can range from 15 to 50 millimeters or more.

If the control element (4) is made in the form of a convex polyhedron, then its length, width and height are in the range from 20 to 50 millimeters or more.

The outer surface of the control element (4) may be matte or glossy and may be coated (e.g., with paint) with any color or a combination of several different colors. Various graphic elements, such as dots, lines, geometric shapes, etc., may also be applied to the outer surface of the control element (4), either arranged in any order or in accordance with the appearance of an object of the corresponding shape, such as a life preserver if the control element is torus-shaped.

Thus, the design elements of the "Barbell Trainer" provide:

a) clear perception of the movement of the control element (4) along the entire length of the rod (1) in different positions of the “Barbell Trainer” during the execution of exercises;

b) ease of holding the “Barbell Trainer” by the first and second tips (2,3) or by one of them;

c) increasing the variety of exercises aimed at restoring the impaired process of eye movements and training the eye muscles" due to the presence of tips (2, 3) used as an additional means for fixing the gaze and controlling the eye movements of the person practicing;

d) the possibility of using the “Barbell Trainer” to restore the impaired process of eye movements in bedridden neurological patients;

d) the possibility of using the “Barbell Trainer” during independent training to restore the impaired process of eye movements or to train the eye muscles.

The device "Barbell trainer for exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes, as well as training of eye muscles" is used using methods determined by the objectives of the rehabilitation or training sessions.

Restoration of the eye movement process in patients with visual agnosia.

The relevance of using the "Barbell Trainer" during training sessions to restore the impaired process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia is due to the fact that most existing trainers and manuals provide the ability to restore eye movements only in the plane of the sheet with the working material, in contrast to which the "Barbell Trainer" provides the ability to restore eye movements in real three-dimensional space.

Classes to restore the impaired process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia are conducted under the guidance of a neuropsychologist or other specialist in this field.

During a course of exercises to restore impaired eye movement, the specialist demonstrates various exercises to the patient, teaching him how to independently use the "Barbell Trainer," which allows for the performance of two types of exercises that can be used simultaneously or alternately.

The exercises of the first type are based on the movement of the control element (4) along the length of the rod (1) between two tips (2, 3), which are used to hold the “Barbell Trainer” with the fingers.

The first exercise consists of the patient holding the “Barbell Trainer” with his fingers on both ends (2, 3) in such a way that the rod (1) is positioned horizontally at eye level, at a distance of 300-500 mm from the patient’s face.

Next, the patient alternately raises the first tip (2) and lowers the second tip (3), and then lowers the first tip (2) and raises the second tip (3), thereby producing small tilts of the rod (1), ensuring a slow, uniform movement (sliding) of the control element (4) along the entire length of the rod (1) to the left and to the right, while tracking its movement with his gaze, without straining the eyes or moving the head.

The number of repetitions of this exercise is determined by a specialist who monitors the correctness of its execution, so that the movement (sliding) of the control element (4) is slow and uniform (this also applies to all other exercises of the first type).

In addition to placing the rod (1) at the patient’s eye level, this exercise can also be performed with it placed above or below eye level.

The second exercise involves the patient holding the “Barbell Trainer” by both ends (2, 3) so that the rod (1) is located at eye level on one side of the patient (for example, on the left).

During the execution of this exercise, the patient makes similar tilts of the rod (1), ensuring a slow, uniform movement of the control element (4) along the rod (1) to the left and to the right, while tracking its movement with his gaze.

Next, the patient changes the position of the “Barbell Trainer” so that the rod (1) is at eye level on the other side, and repeats this exercise.

In addition to placing the rod (1) at the patient’s eye level, this exercise can be performed with it placed above and below eye level.

The third exercise involves the patient holding the “Barbell Trainer” by both ends (2, 3) in such a way that the rod (1) is located along one of the diagonals of a conditional rectangle located at the patient’s eye level.

During the execution of this exercise, the patient makes similar tilts of the rod (1), ensuring a slow, uniform movement (sliding) of the control element (4) along the entire length of the rod (1), tracking its movement with his gaze.

Next, the patient moves the “Barbell Trainer” so that the rod (1) is located along the other diagonal of the conditional rectangle.

In addition to placing the rod (1) at the patient’s eye level, this exercise can also be performed with it placed above or below eye level.

The fourth exercise involves the patient holding the “Barbell Trainer” by the tips (2, 3) in such a way that the rod (1) is positioned at eye level perpendicular to his face with a shift to the left and then to the right side.

During the execution of this exercise, the patient makes similar tilts of the rod (1), ensuring a slow, uniform movement (sliding) of the control element (4) along the entire length of the rod (1), tracking its movement with his gaze.

In addition to placing the rod (1) at the patient’s eye level, this exercise can also be performed with it placed above or below eye level.

The fifth exercise involves the patient holding the “Barbell Trainer” by the tips (2, 3) in such a way that the rod (1) is located at the patient’s eye level, perpendicular to the center of his face.

During the execution of this exercise, the patient makes similar tilts of the rod (1), ensuring a slow, uniform movement (sliding) of the control element (4) along the entire length of the rod (1), tracking its movement with his gaze.

In addition to placing the rod (1) at the patient’s eye level, this exercise can be performed with it placed above and below eye level.

The above-described exercises of the first type, using the "Barbell Machine," vary in difficulty and are gradually introduced by the specialist, taking into account the degree of the patient's eye movement impairment and their ability to perform specific eye movements. The specialist determines the sequence of exercises, the number of repetitions, and the rest time between exercises.

Along with the above-described exercises of the first type, training using the “Barbell Trainer” can be carried out through exercises of the second type, which are based on the use of the first or second tip (2, 3) of the “Barbell Trainer” as a means for fixing the gaze and controlling the movement of the eyes, which is held by the fingers of the hand by the other tip.

In this case, the control element (4) is not used during this type of exercise and is located next to the tip by which the patient holds the device.

The first exercise involves the simplest movements of one of the tips (2, 3) in a plane positioned in front of the patient's face at arm's length. For example, movements left and right, up and down, diagonal movements of a rectangle, etc.

When performing this exercise, the patient makes slow, even movements with the tip (2, 3) in the directions described above, tracking its movement with their gaze without straining their eyes or moving their head. The specialist monitors the patient's performance of these exercises to ensure smooth and calm movements, and that the maximum deflection of the tip (2, 3) is comfortable for the patient (this also applies to other exercises of the second type).

The second exercise involves the patient positioning the "Barbell Trainer" vertically so that the tip (2, 3) is held motionless in front of their face at arm's length. Next, the patient, looking at the tip (2, 3), performs smooth, gentle head movements left and right, up and down, and so on, under the supervision of a specialist.

The third exercise is a more complex version of the first exercise and involves more complex movements with the tip (2, 3), performed in a fixed plane located approximately an arm's length in front of the patient's face. For example, circular movements (clockwise and counterclockwise), movements along the contour of a horizontal figure eight (clockwise and counterclockwise), and others.

The fourth exercise is a more complex version of the second exercise. The patient positions the "Barbell Trainer" vertically so that the tip (2, 3) is held motionless in front of the patient's face at arm's length. Next, the patient, looking at the tip (2, 3), carefully performs more complex head movements, such as circular movements (clockwise and counterclockwise), horizontal figure-eight movements (clockwise and counterclockwise), and other movements under the supervision of a specialist.

The fifth exercise involves movements of the tip (2, 3) in a vertical plane perpendicular to the center of the patient's face. For example, linear movements away from the patient's face and back, circular movements (clockwise and counterclockwise), etc.

The sixth exercise involves more complex trajectories of the tip's movements (2, 3), performed not in a single plane, as in the first, third, and fifth exercises, but in three-dimensional space. For example, movements along the contour of an imaginary sphere or any other three-dimensional figure, etc.

The second type of exercises described above, using the "Barbell Machine," vary in difficulty and are gradually introduced by the specialist, taking into account the degree of the patient's eye movement impairment and their ability to perform specific eye movements. The specialist determines the sequence of exercises, the number of repetitions, and the rest time between exercises.

Thus, the "Barbell Trainer" provides the ability to perform two types of exercises that can be used:

a) simultaneously, when exercises of the first and second types are used in one lesson;

b) alternately, when exercises of the first type are used in one lesson, and exercises of the second type - in the next lesson, etc.

Along with this, a specialist can create an individual exercise program for the patient, which includes certain exercises of the first type and certain exercises of the second type.

Eye muscle training to prevent vision problems

The relevance of using the "Barbell Trainer" for training the eye muscles for the purpose of preventing visual impairment is due to the fact that currently, work, study, and other activities of most people are connected with a computer, the active use of which contributes to the development of computer vision syndrome.

A computer user's visual performance and visual fatigue are closely linked to their accommodation (the ability of the visual apparatus to focus on objects located at different distances) and convergence (the convergence of the visual axes of both eyes on a fixed object). The development of computer vision syndrome is based on the mechanism of overstrain of the accommodative apparatus of the eye. Because text on electronic media is not presented as continuous lines, but consists of scattered dots and pixels, images on electronic media and paper differ greatly, and the eyes are unable to maintain focus. This leads to disruption of the function and uneven contraction of the muscle that provides accommodation (ciliary muscle) and the development of accommodation spasm (A.I. Oleynik. Computer vision syndrome, found on 07/02/2025 on the Internet at https://gkb-23.ru/tag/elektrostimulyatsiya-tsiliarnoj-myshtsy/).

One of the ways to combat computer vision syndrome is visual gymnastics, based on regular performance of exercises to relieve eye strain: a) look alternately to the right and left, focusing on each point for 1-2 seconds; b) look alternately up and down, focusing on each point for 1-2 seconds; c) perform circular movements with your eyes, first clockwise, then counterclockwise; d) open and close your eyes sufficiently intensively; e) look alternately diagonally up to the right and down to the left, up to the left and down to the right, focusing on each point for 1-2 seconds; e) Bring the index finger of your hand closer to your nose, focusing your gaze on the tip of your finger, thus bringing your eyes closer to your nose and fixing your gaze for 1-2 seconds (Daria Lebedinets. How working at a computer affects your vision, found on July 2, 2025, on the Internet at https://oft.nika-nn.ru/articles/kak-rabota-za-kompyuterom-vliyaet-na-zrenie/).

The developed "Barbell Trainer" facilitates the performance of visual gymnastics exercises based on eye movements, making their performance more convenient and comfortable due to the use of a control element (4) that smoothly moves along the rod (1) for fixing the gaze and controlling the movement of the eyes, as well as due to the possibility of using the tips (2, 3) of the "Barbell Trainer" for fixing the gaze and controlling the movement of the eyes of the person exercising.

In this case, the use of the "Barbell Trainer" is particularly relevant for conducting visual gymnastics for neurological patients during classes on the restoration of impaired mental functions using computer technologies, which are widely used in the practice of neuropsychological rehabilitation of patients (Selyavko L.E., Tsvetkova L.S. Computer technologies in rehabilitation training. Bulletin of Moscow University. Series 14, Psychology. 2006. No. 2. Pp. 71-78).

This is due to the fact that the visual system of neurological patients is more susceptible to the effects of a computer monitor and therefore has a greater need for rest and preventative training.

The use of the "Barbell Trainer" during exercises aimed at training the eye muscles for the prevention of visual impairment is carried out through the visual gymnastics exercises described above for overcoming computer vision syndrome and various exercises similar to the two types of exercises described above, aimed at restoring the process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia.

The main differences between training sessions aimed at training the eye muscles to prevent visual impairment in computer vision syndrome and sessions aimed at restoring the impaired eye movement process in neurological patients with visual agnosia are:

a) shorter classes, held more regularly;

b) the use of additional exercises that promote better eye function: blinking, etc.;

c) some increase in the number of exercises of the first and second types aimed at training the ciliary muscle.

All exercises based on the use of the "Barbell Machine" should be performed slowly, smoothly, without straining the eye muscles.

Along with exercises aimed at training the eye muscles to prevent visual impairment while working on a computer, the "Barbell Trainer" can be effectively used to prevent visual impairment during any other activity that requires prolonged concentration on objects located close to the eyes, such as reading books, writing on a piece of paper, drawing, etc.

Eye muscle training to improve visual acuity

The relevance of using the "Barbell Trainer" for training the eye muscles in order to improve visual acuity is due to the fact that various diseases associated with dysfunction of the eye muscles have become widespread at present, the most common of which include myopia and presbyopia.

Eye muscle training sessions to improve visual acuity are conducted under the guidance of an ophthalmologist or other specialist in this field.

Currently, there are various sets of exercises known to improve visual acuity, for example, the set "The Best Exercises for Restoring Visual Acuity" includes the following exercises: a) sitting on a chair, relax and close your eyelids tightly for a couple of seconds, then open them very wide and bulge your eyes slightly; b) standing straight, look ahead, wait a few seconds, then bring the index finger of one hand closer to the center of the face at a distance of 20 cm from the eyes, and then slowly direct your gaze to the tip of the phalanx of the finger and hold it for 5-6 seconds; c) sitting on a chair, quickly blink your eyelashes for one to three minutes, without straining the muscles of the eyeball; d) raise your straight arms forward at head level, then hold your attention on the tip of the finger of one hand, and, without moving it, slowly bring the finger closer to your face until its phalanx begins to double; d) sitting on a chair, calmly close your eyes and slowly massage your eyelids with your fingers; e) standing straight, place the index finger of one hand at head level, at a distance of 20-30 cm from the eyes and focus your gaze on the tip of the finger, holding it for 5-6 seconds, then cover one half of the face with the palm of the other hand and continue to look at the index finger with the unclosed eye, then perform the same exercise with the other hand; g) slowly move the index finger of your right hand from side to side and follow its movement with your gaze, focusing on its tip, without moving your head; h) sitting on a chair, put your index, middle and ring fingers together and place them on your eyelids, pressing lightly on them for 3 seconds. Along with the exercises described above, this complex includes a number of other exercises (Serchenko O.G. The best exercises for restoring visual acuity, found on 07/02/2025 on the Internet at https://uteka.ru/articles/sovety/uprazhneniya-dlya-vosstanovleniya-zreniya/).

The developed "Barbell Trainer" helps to expand the possibilities of the exercises of this complex, based on tracking the tip of the phalanx of the finger with the eyes, making their implementation more interesting and attractive for those involved due to the use of a device that provides the ability to track with the eyes the movement of the control element (4) along the rod (1), as well as the movement in space of one of the tips (2, 3).

The use of the "Barbell Trainer" during exercises aimed at training the eye muscles to improve visual acuity is carried out through the exercises of the above-described (or any other) complex for improving visual acuity, as well as various exercises similar to the above-described exercises of the first and second types, aimed at restoring the process of eye movements in neurological patients with visual agnosia and exercises for training the eye muscles for the prevention of visual impairment.

The main difference between training the eye muscles to improve visual acuity and training for the prevention of visual impairment is:

a) increasing the duration of classes;

b) increasing the number of additional exercises aimed at relieving tension, improving blood circulation in the eyes, etc.;

c) increasing the number of exercises of the first and second types aimed at training the ciliary muscle.

Along with exercises aimed at restoring eye movement and training the eye muscles, the stated "Barbell Trainer" can be effectively used:

a) when conducting corrective and developmental classes with children who have disorders in the formation of the eye movement process;

b) when conducting classes with children to prevent visual impairments when working on a computer, as well as classes aimed at improving visual acuity in cases of myopia;

c) when conducting classes with neurological patients with alexia, whose reading difficulties are caused by a disorder of the eye movement process, therefore, the above-described two types of exercises are performed with these patients to restore the impaired eye movements;

d) when conducting classes with neurological patients with unilateral visual-spatial agnosia, in which the perception of objects in the left visual field is impaired, therefore, with these patients, the above-described exercises are performed to restore eye movements, based on tracking with the gaze the movement of the control element and the movement of the tip, which periodically go beyond the visual field perceived by the patient;

d) when conducting classes with neurological patients who have a disorder of voluntary attention, due to the fact that the same type of monotonous activity of tracking the movement of the control element or the movements of the tip with the gaze will contribute to improving concentration.

Thus, the claimed "Barbell Trainer" is a device that is simple to manufacture and easy to use, designed for work aimed at both the central and peripheral sections of the visual analyzer, and provides the opportunity to conduct classes on the restoration of the impaired process of eye movements with a wide contingent of neurological patients with visual agnosia, including bedridden neurological patients, as well as classes on training the eye muscles for the prevention of visual impairment when working on a computer, and classes on training the eye muscles to improve visual acuity in various diseases associated with disorders of the eye muscles.

The use of the "Barbell Trainer" helps increase the effectiveness of exercises to restore impaired eye movement processes and train the eye muscles due to the fact that, starting from the first lessons, the work process is carried out using external means that facilitate the control of eye movement and training of the eye muscles of the participant, and the process of training itself becomes more interesting and attractive.

Claims (9)

1. A barbell trainer for exercises to restore the impaired process of eye movements, as well as training the eye muscles, characterized in that it is a device consisting of a barbell made in the form of a rod with a smooth outer surface, at the ends of which a first tip and a second tip are rigidly fixed, and on the rod a control element with a through hole is placed with the possibility of free movement, designed to fix the gaze and control the movement of the eyes of the person practicing, wherein the first tip and the second tip are intended for holding the device with the fingers of the hands, as well as for fixing the gaze and controlling the movement of the eyes of the person practicing. 2. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the first tip is made in the form of a three-dimensional geometric figure. 3. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the first tip is made in the form of an object. 4. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the second tip is made in the form of a three-dimensional geometric figure. 5. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the second tip is made in the form of an object. 6. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the control element is made in the form of a torus. 7. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the control element is made in the form of a ring. 8. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the control element is made in the form of a three-dimensional geometric figure. 9. A barbell trainer according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the control element is made in the form of an object.