Project Overview
A highly innovative web-based learning tool, the Virtual Refractor has been designed to simulate a complete distance refractive examination using a refractor head.
For the uninitiated, it simulates an eye test!
Virtual patients, with numerous demographic profiles, respond to various test charts and questions regarding the effects of lens combinations introduced by the examiner. Using this world class tool, optometry students are able gain a strong working knowledge of how to perform a refraction prior to practical clinical sessions.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
Team
Project Manager – Elliot van Dugteren
Design – Renee Chambers
Development – David Beaumont and Ricardo Salinas
Project Brief
Originally a desktop application developed in 1992 using C++ programming, in 2013 it was time for the Virtual Refractor to undergo a redesign and take the technology online.
Brien Holden Vision Institute and Butterfly worked closely together to scope the project, design a new user friendly interface to simulate refraction with a patient. We then backwards engineered the programming in order to apply the mathematical logic of the refractor to the new design.
Project Need
Taking the Virtual Refractor online has meant access to refraction training for students all over the world. They simply need an internet connection.
The new design also brings a human element to the tool. The desktop application whilst simulating the refractor, involved a basic interface, with no “person” behind the refractor. The design also delivers increased design detail that is more realistic, creating a better user experience.
Design Challenge
The greatest design challenge was developing an understanding of the highly technical requirements of the refractor, and then designing a user friendly interface to complement it without compromising the functionality. The design and technology needed to simulate the refractor exactly. Ensuring that we correctly reverse engineered the code to work with the design was crucial.
Sustainability
Sustainability for this project was specifically about taking a desktop application online where it is much easier to maintain and to access across the world. This leads to better education of optometry students for the broader ongoing sustainability of the industry.
In addition, as with all Butterfly projects, all design and development was completed in Australia from Sydney and Melbourne, encompassing our commitment to sustaining the local design and development industries.
Digital Experience - Website
This award celebrates innovation and creativity in design of a unique user experience in the combination of text, audio, still images, animation, video, and interactivity content for websites. Consideration given to clarity of communication and the matching information style to audience.
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