Instructions For Using Accessories With The Wayne Computerized Saccadic Fixator

The Wayne Computerized Saccadic Fixator system was developed for improving eye-hand coordination; testing and training saccadic eye movement; enhancing anticipation and reaction time; developing visual memory and response to an auditory and visual signal; improving near/far accommodation; and integrating spatial awareness.

In addition to the Fixator itself, the components of the system include:

• The Hand Controller Joystick (supplied with the Fixator).
• The Accommodative Rock Control Panel (ARC) for training and testing near/far accommodation.
• The Electronic Balance Board for developing balance and "off" balance training which can also be integrated with all the other activities.
• Visual Stick-ups which are light-activated extensions of the lights on the face of the Saccadic Fixator, allowing all activities to be performed in real space.
• The Control Center Module which provides outlets for connecting the ARC, Balance Board, and Visual Stick-ups to the Saccadic Fixator and provides for balance board integration and off-balance counting.
• The Wayne Speed-trac which simulates the pitching of a ball for testing and training anticipation and reaction time.
• Reaction sensor switches for measuring reaction time, release time, and activity rates. These sensors include the Infra-Red Sensor Beam, Extension Touch Sensitive Fixation Boxes, and Foot Switch Pads. They are connected to the Saccadic Fixator using the Interface Control Box.

The Hand Controller Joystick is designed to be used in conjunction with the Wayne Computerized Saccadic Fixator. The controller permits and expansion of activities, and provides a dual control of the Fixator by both the user and the technician.

The joystick can be plugged directly into the Wayne Computerized Saccadic Fixator or into the Control Center Module. All activities that require depressing the start/stop/reset button can now be controlled remotely by using the trigger grip on the joystick.

In addition to the remote reset switch, the controller has a built-in 4-position joystick. Moving the joystick to and of the 4 quadrant positions (forward, right, back, left) will act the same as depressing the corresponding quadrant position light on the face of the Saccadic Fixator. For example, if the top outer light (twelve o'clock position) on the Saccadic Fixator is illuminated, moving the joystick forward has the same effect as depressing the light/button.

The controller trigger can be used to start/stop/reset all of the pre-set programs stored in the Saccadic Fixator, as well as any programs of your own creation. The controller joystick can be used with the following pre-set programs:

All Balance Board programs can also be used; trainee moves the joystick to the correct position to score.

Custom programs

In addition to the listed programs, it is possible to set up your own special programs that will permit the use of the controller joystick. Some ideas are:

• Self-pacing, timed for 30 second, 4 lights, random pattern. Move joystick to correct quad position for sound and scored point.
• Automatic pacing, 60 lights/minute, timed for 60 seconds, 4 lights, random pattern.
• Visual memory, fast pace: lights flash on for 1/10 second followed 1/10 second later by next light. Move joystick to light position in a series sequence, always starting from the first light. Set 4 lights, random pattern.
• Sports vision--release/locate reaction time ("Reaction Plus"): similar to program 9-40. Lights will appear only in quad positions. Move joystick to these positions for reaction time measurements.

The ARC is a hand-held panel with 16 membrane key switches and a pushbutton that acts as an extension of the Saccadic Fixator's start/stop/reset button. Each membrane key is labelled with a letter and corresponds to one of the 16 lights on the Saccadic Fixator's outer circle; pressing a key has the same effect as pressing the corresponding switch/light.

The ARC may be plugged directly into the Saccadic Fixator or into the Control Center Module (required if Visual Stick-ups are being used or balance board integration is desired). The ARC is supplied with 16 stick-on letters which should be placed on the face of the Saccadic Fixator or on the Stick-ups. When placing letters on the Fixator, make sure that they do not obscure the lights; it's best to place them just inside the outer circle of lights. The letters correspond to the lights (numbered 1-16, starting at the top position) as follows:

The primary purpose of the ARC is to test and train rapid near/far accommodation; the trainee stands or sits at a distance from the Fixator, fixates on one of the lights (far point) and then shifts fixation to the ARC (near point) and presses the appropriate letter key. Program 9-36 is specifically intended for testing accommodation; it presents a self-paced sequence of random lights for 60 seconds. For training, set the elapsed time limit to zero. Lenses and prism flippers can be used to augment this training.

The ARC may also be used with any program that uses only lights on the outer circle (set parameter 5 to 2, 3, or 4 for 16, 8, or 4 lights respectively; see Parameters and Selections). For example, using the ARC with any of the visual memory programs will test and train the ability to memorize letter sequences.

To test or train accommodation at varying distances, use the ARC in conjunction with 4, 8, or 16 Visual Stick-ups placed at different distances in front of the trainee.

The Electronic Balance Board has 4 tilt-sensitive switches which detect imbalance in the four cardinal positions (forward, backward, left, and right). The board can be plugged directly into the Saccadic Fixator or into the Control Center Module (required for Balance mode, Balance Board Integration and for use with the Visual Stick-ups).

Operating modes

The board can be used in three modes: Quad mode, Balance mode, and Integration mode. In Quad mode the four tilt switches act as extensions of the four quad position lights/switches on the face of the Saccadic Fixator; the user must shift his balance in the direction indicated by the Fixator in order to score a point. The board is in Quad mode when plugged directly into the Fixator or when the selector switch on the Control Center Module is in position "A".

In Balance mode (available only when the Balance Board is plugged into the Control Center Module) the Fixator will generate an auditory signal and count each time the user activates a tilt switch by going off balance. The board is in Balance mode when the selector switch on the Control Center Module is in position "C".

Integration mode allows all activities be performed only while the user maintains balance. When the user goes off balance, his score is frozen and all activities stop. To reset the system after the body goes off balance, any of the following can be done:

• Depress the start/stop/reset green light button on the face of the Saccadic Fixator.
• Activate the reset control on the Hand Controller Joystick or the Accommodative Rock Panel if either accessory is plugged into the Control Center Module.
• Shift body weight back to balance, then immediately off balance and then immediately back again to the balance position.

The board is in Integration mode when the selector switch on the Control Center Module is in position "B" or "D".

Testing and training activities

It is suggested that the individual first learn to balance properly on the balance board starting with the larger post and progressing to the smaller post. After good balance is attained, progress to the next activity--the quadrant shift.

For all activities, the user steps upon the balance board with two feet straddling the center of the board and separated so that each foot is approximately 2 inches from the edge. User should shift his feet slightly ao that he is centered properly. By shifting his body (using a slight sway), he should keep the board in proper balance so that none of the edges of the balance beard makes contact with the floor.

To train and test proper balance, select Balance mode (position "C" on the Control Center Module) and select program [need program number here] on the Saccadic Fixator. The goal is for the user to maintain balance and keep the count displayed by the fixator as low as possible. This will be easiest with the large post.

To train and test directed quadrant shifting, set the Balance Board to Quad mode (position "A" on the Control Center Module) and select program 9-26 (60 seconds) or 9-27 (30 seconds) on the Fixator. The goal is for the user to make as many corrects shifts as possible in the time allowed. This will be easiest with the small post.

Once the user has mastered static balance and quadrant shifting, consider using Integration mode to test and develop his ability to maintain balance while performing other visual/motor activities.

Visual Stick-ups are extensions of the lights/buttons on the Saccadic Fixator. All activities using the outer 16 lights of the Saccadic Fixator can now be performed in space using the Stick-ups. A pulsed flashlight or pulse flash gun can be used to "press" or activate the spatial Stick-up lights.

Stick-ups must be used with the Control Center Module in groups of 4, 8 or 16 and the Saccadic Fixator program must be set accordingly:

• The four lights are used either in the quad position or in the four balance board locations: top, right, bottom, and left. Use program 9-32.
• The eight lights are used with every-other outer 16 lights. starting with #1 (twelve o'clock position). Use program 9-33.
• The 16 lights are all the lights in the outer 16 light ring. Use program 9-32 and then set parameter 5 to 2.

Installation

1. Select Stick-up placement. Stick-ups can be placed on the wall, floor, ceiling, or any object in the room. When selecting placement position, remember the following:
   1. The target light on Stick-up is sensitive to bright light.
      DO NOT place a Stick-up facing bright outside light, i.e., window or outside door. Bright sunlight can impede operation of Stick-up.
      DO NOT place a Stick-up directly facing an incandescent bulb.
   2. Stick-up can be placed at a reasonable distance under or near fluorescent light.
   3. When conditions prevent control of bright light shining from above or from the side, then a light shield-hood should be placed around the Stick-up to block the illumination.
2. Peel the paper from the velcro pad behind each Stick-up. Separate the velcro sections and firmly press the adhesive side of the single velcro piece to the desired location.
3. Press the Stick-up to the velcro piece on location. By attaching new velcro pads to different locations, Stick-up patterns can be changed. Simply pull the Stick-up away from its original velcro pad and attach it to the new pad. This can be done to add variety to the exercises or introduce new skills.
   
   Note: Additional velcro has been provided; however, we recommend leaving the velcro up once it is in place. If the velcro must be removed, do so carefully, peeling it away by the corner first. Additional velcro is available at most fabric stores.
4. Plug the cord of each Stick-up into the numbered jack on the front panel of the Control Center Module. The numbers correspond to the position of the lights on the face of the SACCADIC FIXATOR, starting with the top light and going clockwise. Jacks 1, 5, 9 and 13 have an asterisk (*); these represent lights for the quad positions used with the Electronic Balance Board, i.e. forward, right, back, and left.

Adjusting the Stick-ups for maximum sensitivity and room lighting

The sensitivity control on each Stick-up determines how much light is needed to "press" it. Turning the knob clockwise increases the sensitivity. After installing the Stick-ups, it will be necessary to calibrate them for ambient room lighting level. This procedure is best done with an assistant.

1. Rotate the sensitivity control on each Stick-up fully counterclockwise for minimum sensitivity.
2. Make sure the Control Center module is plugged into the Saccadic Fixator. Set the switch on the Control Center Module to position "C" or "D".
3. Select the appropriate Saccadic Fixator program for the number of Stick-ups and start it by depress the Start/Stop/Reset button.
4. Target light on one Stick-up should glow.
5. Stand at selected distance from Stick-up with flashlight in hand.
6. Shine flashlight beam on the Stick-up target light while assistant adjusts the Sensitivity Control of the Stick-up. To do this, slowly rotate knob clockwise until the target light moves to another Stick-up.
7. Repeat above step #6 for next glowing Stick-up target light. Continue until all Stick-ups have been individually adjusted.
8. If an illuminated target light does not change to another position when the flashlight beam shines on it, another adjustment of the sensitivity may be necessary. Should that happen just increase the sensitivity of the Stick-up by slowly turning the knob clockwise.
9. Be sure to take note of which Stick-up target light was calibrated. Since Stick-up lights appear at random, some Stick-up lights may appear several times before all the lights appear once. Be aware of which Stick-up lights have been calibrated. After a couple of rounds, if one Stick-up light never comes on, check for interfering illumination. If none is present, then remove that Stick-up plug from its jack and re-insert into another jack.

Suggested exercises

All the activities of the Saccadic Fixator can now be performed in space and with anaglyph glasses, plus/minus lenses, and while balancing on a balance board, walking beam or a trampoline. Visual Stick-up can be used with the Accommodative Rock Panel for near-point/far-point accommodative rock, and with the Wayne Electronic Balance Board.

Activities using Stick-ups and flashlight

1. To improve tracking skills, arrange Stick-ups in a line at eye level. Have the user stand up to 15 ft. away facing the Stick-ups. As each target light comes on, user shines the flashlight on it. This will cause the target light to jump to another Stick-up. Repeat the process. The display on the Saccadic Fixator will record the number of correct responses in the pre-set time interval (adjust parameter 2 to the desired time limit after selecting the appropriate program).
2. To increase flexibility, vary distance between user and Stick-up. Repeat procedure #1. Encourage the user to track target lights by ocular movement only. To keep user's head from turning, place a book on top of his head.
3. To improve peripheral awareness, randomly place Stick-ups in an area up to 20 ft. in diameter. Have user stand in center of arrangement and locate the proper target light with a flashlight. As accuracy and speed improve, move user successively closer to the Stick-up and repeat process.
4. Place Stick-ups on the back of chairs and on the wall for near/far accommodation.
5. Use anaglyph glasses for monocular training.

Activities using Stick-ups with Accommodative Rock Control Panel

Target lights in space can contain the far point target patterns when the Accommodative Rock Control Panel (ARC) is used. With the ARC, the user can make quick judgements in terms of space, improve accommodation and fixation. This develops acuity and ocular-motor skills.

1. Place matching letters on the Stick-up to match the letter on the ARC. When a letter is lit on the Stick-up, press the corresponding letter on the ARC. This will cause the light to randomly jump to the next target position.
2. Alternate accommodative-rock using flashlight. When a Stick-up target light is "on" user touches the matching letter on the ARC. The light will jump to another target position and user then shines the flashlight on this new target position. The next target light position is matched with the near-point letter on the ARC. Continue this alternation until the pre-set time has elapsed.

Activities using Stick-ups with Electronic Balance Board

Use only four Stick-ups. These should be plugged into the jacks marked with and asterick (*): #l-forward, #5-right, #9-back, #13-left. Label these Stick-ups as shown and place Stick-ups so that they are positioned as follows:

    Forward
Left          Right
      Back

To develop spatial awareness and visual integration, user must shift his/her body position in the direction indicated by the Stick-up target lights. Display will record the correct number of shifts in a given time.

Tactile finger control of Stick-ups

When the Stick-up are properly adjusted, touching the target light with the finger or with a white surface has the same effect as shining a flashlight on the target light.

Touch the target light with your finger. The light should change to another Stick-up and a tone will be heard. If this does not happen, then the Stick-up sensitivity should be increased. To do this, place your finger on the illuminated target light and rotate the sensitivity control very slightly clockwise until the light switches to another target position. Remember that if the sensitivity is turned too high, the room light will adversely affect that Stick-up.

Activities using Stick-ups in automatic mode

Lights move automatically at the selected speed. Correct response produces an auditory tone and is recorded on the display. Set the switch on the Control Center Module to position "C" and set parameter 1 on the Saccadic Fixator to 4.

The Control Center Module allows all the above-described equipment to be connected to the Saccadic Fixator. The module includes 16 phono jacks for plugging in up to 16 Visual Stick-ups, a jack for connecting the Accommodative Rock Control Panel or Hand Controller Joystick, and a jack for connecting the Electronic Balance Board. A four-position rotary switch permists the selection of any of the following:

• Position A: All accessories operate normally, but Stick-ups are not active; Balance Board is in Quad mode.
• Position B: Balance Board Integration; body must be in balance or activities "freeze".
• Position C: Stick-ups are active. Balance Board, if used, is in Balance mode; each time body is off-balance, an auditory signal and count is produced.
• Position D: Stick-ups are active and Balance Board is in Integration mode.

The Control Center Module can be placed on a desk, on the floor or mounted on a wall. Wherever possible, we recommend mounting on the wall approximately four feet off the floor. This will permit easy handling.

Two plastic mounting strips are included in the package. Remove the screws from the rubber feet on the bottom rear of the Control Center Module. Place the plastic mounting strip under the rubber feet and replace the screws. Mount the Control Center Module on a wall using the enclosed two screws.

The Wayne Speed-trac consists of a 20-foot flexible track housing a total of 32 LED lamps. The track can be rolled out on the floor or placed on a series of tables. The Speed-trac plugs directly into the Saccadic Fixator. A nine-pin jack attached to a short cable connects the Speed-trac to the supplied hand switch (similar to the Hand Controller Joystick but with a different connector) or the Infra-Red Sensor Beam. The track can be rolled into a one-foot diameter spiral for convenience in handling and storage.

The trainee ("batter") is positioned so that light #32 lines up with him/her and is called "home plate." Light #1 is 20 feet from "home plate" and is called the "pitcher's mound." When the start button on the Saccadic Fixator is depressed, light #1 (pitcher's mound) will flash on and off approximately 180 times per minute. After a short time delay, the lights will suddenly appear to move toward "home plate" at a pre-set speed calibrated in miles per hour. The "batter" must respond by stopping the moving lights at the same instant that they pass over the "home plate" (light position #32).

The trainee stops the lights by either squeezing the trigger on the hand switch or (recommended to make the procedure more realistic) swinging a bat, racquet, or hand to interrupt the Infra-red Sensor Beam. The location of the stopped light indicates the exact instant that the "batter" reacted. The Saccadic Fixator then displayes the early or late reaction time in thousandths of a second (milliseconds).

The Speed-trac may be used with programs 9-28, 9-29, 9-49, 9-50, 9-100, 9-101, and 9-102.

The Interface Control Box plugs directly into the Saccadic Fixator and provides 5 phono jacks into which various accessory switches can be plugged. Four of the jacks allow switches to be used in place of the quad position (top, right, bottom, left) switch/lights on the Fixator; the fifth jack allows a switch to be used in place of the start/stop/reset button. The Interface Control Box is the modern replacement for the Reaction Measurement Sensor Interface which was supplied with older Fixators.

The Interface Control Box works with any switch or sensor that provides a simple contact closure and connects via a 3.5mm two-conductor phono plug. Wayne Engineering products that can be used for this purpose include the Foot Switch Pads, Extension Touch-sensitive Fixation Boxes, the hand switch supplied with the Speed-trac, and the Infra-Red sensor beam. Please contact us if you have questions about the compatibility of any other switch or sensor. Note that the Visual Stick-ups cannot be used as sensors for the current model of the Interface Control Box.

The primary use of external switches and sensors is reaction time measurement. Many applications for external switches are described in Whole-body Reaction Measurement, Wayne Footspeed, and the program listings for the Saccadic Fixator. Here are some additional ideas for using switch accessories:

Remote control of the start/stop switch

Plug a remote switch into the center jack of the interface. To connect the Infra-red Sensor Beam or the hand switch, use the interface cable.

Reaction time measurements with programs 9-18 and 9-19

Plug two remote switches into the left and right jacks of the interface. You may use this arrangement for any activity that uses only the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock lights/switches.

Foot pacing and prompting

Plug four foot switches into the top, right, bottom, and left jacks of the interface. Place the foot switches in the corresponding positions around the trainee. Use program 9-65 to count jogging pacing, or programs 9-43 and 9-46 to prompt the user to run in random directions.

Reaction Plus response with feet

Plug one foot switch into the center jack of the interface and another foot switch, placed ahead of the first one, into the right jack. Set the Fixator to program 9-70. Trainee stands on the first foot switch, waits for an auditory signal, and then jumps to the second switch.

A variation is to use the Infra-red Sensor Beam, projecting horizontally, in place of the second footswitch and have the trainee sprint and interrupt the beam upon receiving the auditory signal.

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