Abstract: An apparatus and method for retinal stimulation are shown. The method comprises varied parameters, including frequency, pulse width, and pattern of pulse trains to determine a stimulation pattern and visual perception threshold.

Abstract: An artificial retina device to electrically stimulate a neuroretina of an eye to produce artificial vision, the artificial retina device comprising: an electrical source; at least one stimulating electrode connected with the electrical source; and at least one ground return electrode connected with the electrical source, wherein the stimulating electrode and ground return electrode are configured to be disposed within the eye on opposite sides of the neuroretina.

Abstract: Methods and devices for verifying that proper visual stimulation is applied to the visual prostheses are described. In one of the methods, a retinal stimulation system implanted on a subject is simulated externally. An external testing device is also discussed.

Abstract: An electrode array, having application as a cochlear implant, includes a tube formed of Parylene defining a hollow channel. A substrate formed primarily of Parylene is supported by the tube. In turn, a plurality of metallic electrodes and feed lines are supported by the substrate. Numerous voids are defined by the tube which opens into the hollow channel. The size and spacing of the voids regulate stiffness and curl of the tube to provide excellent fit within the cochlea.

Abstract: A demultiplexer circuit is disclosed which can be used with a conventional neural stimulator to extend the number of electrodes which can be activated. The demultiplexer circuit, which is formed on a semiconductor substrate containing a power supply that provides all the dc electrical power for operation of the circuit, includes digital latches that receive and store addressing information from the neural stimulator one bit at a time. This addressing information is used to program one or more 1:2N demultiplexers in the demultiplexer circuit which then route neural stimulation signals from the neural stimulator to an electrode array which is connected to the outputs of the 1:2N demultiplexer. The demultiplexer circuit allows the number of individual electrodes in the electrode array to be increased by a factor of 2N with N generally being in a range of 2-4.

Abstract: Methods and devices for fitting a visual prosthesis are described. In one of the methods, threshold levels and maximum levels for the electrodes of the prosthesis are determined and a map of brightness to electrode stimulation levels is later formed. A fitting system for a visual prosthesis is also discussed, together with a computer-operated system having a graphical user interface showing visual prosthesis diagnostic screens and visual prosthesis configuration screens.

Abstract: An object is to provide an artificial vision system ensuring a wide field of view without damaging a retina. In the artificial vision system, a plurality of electrodes (23) are to be implanted so as to stick in an optic papilla of an eye of a patient. A signal for stimulation pulse is generated based on an image captured by an image pick up device (11) to be disposed outside a body of the patient. The electrical stimulation signals outputted from the electrodes (23) based on the signals for stimulation pulse stimulate an optic nerve of the eye, thereby enabling the patient to visually recognize the image from the image pickup device (11).

Abstract: A medical device includes an array of electrodes, configured for implantation in contact with tissue in an eye of a living subject. Driver circuitry is configured to drive the electrodes in an alternating pattern, such that different groups of the electrodes are driven to stimulate the tissue during different, predetermined respective time periods. A power sensor, may be coupled to deactivate a first group of the electrodes when the available electrical power drops below a predetermined threshold, while a second group of the electrodes remains active. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for retinal stimulation are shown. The method comprises varied parameters, including frequency, pulse width, and pattern of pulse trains to determine a stimulation pattern and visual perception threshold.

Abstract: Provided is a vision regeneration assisting apparatus including a plurality of electrodes which are placed in a human body to apply an electrostimulation pulse signal to a cell for forming a retina; and a controller which outputs the electrostimulation pulse signal having bipolarity from the electrodes, wherein the controller comprises a capacitor which accumulates a current used for the electrostimulation pulse signal and converts the current into a voltage; a voltage detecting circuit which detects the voltage of a capacitor; and a switching circuit which allows the current to flow in the electrodes until the voltage of the capacitor reaches a predetermined voltage and allows the current having polarity opposite to (the polarity of the current which flows until the voltage of the capacitor reaches the predetermined voltage) until the voltage of the capacitor is substantially reset to 0.

Abstract: Stimulation inputs are provided to a visual prosthesis implant. The images captured by a video decoder are received and digitized to provide a plurality of video frames; integrity of the video frames is checked, the checked video frames are filtered, and the filtered video frames are converted to stimulation inputs. A similar system is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of neural stimulation and more specifically an improved method of providing flexible video/image possessing in a visual prosthesis by providing downloadable video filters. In a visual prosthesis, the input video image will, for the foreseeable future, be higher resolution than the output stimulation of the retina, optic nerve or visual cortex. This is due to limits of electrode array technology and the rapid advancement of video camera technology. It is therefore, advantageous to apply video processing algorithms (filters) to help provide the most useful information to the lower resolution electrode array. Different filters are more effective in different environments and for different subjects. Furthermore, filters will continue to improve over time. Examples of situation dependent filters include reverse image, contrast increasing, edge detection, segmentation using chromatic information and motion detection.

Abstract: An implantable biocompatible device, that may be either a sensor or stimulator, having electronic circuitry and electrodes formed on a substrate, is uniformly covered with a coating approximately one-micron thick of ultra-nanocrystalline diamond, hermetically sealing the electronic circuitry. Selected electrodes are either left uncovered during coating or uncovered by conventional patterning techniques, allowing the electrodes to be exposed to living tissue and fluids. The ultra-nanocrystalline diamond coating may be doped to create electrically conductive electrodes. These approaches eliminate the need for a hermetically sealed lid or cover to protect hybrid electronic circuitry, and thus allow the device to be thinner than otherwise possible. The conformal ultra-nanocrystalline diamond coating uniformly covers the device, providing relief from sharp edges and producing a strong, uniformly thick hermetic coating around sharp edges and on high aspect-ratio parts.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the treatment of ischemic diseases, and more particularly, to treatment of diabetic retinopathy and ischemia of the retinal and choroidal tissues. The treatment, which will work in vitrectomized eyes as well as non-vitrectomized eyes, is based on selective and fractional electrolysis of the vitreous humor to produce oxygen and optionally active chlorine while simultaneously controlling pH. Oxygen or active chlorine can suppress or reverse the onset of diabetic retinopathy, other retinovascular diseases, and choroidal neovascularization.

Abstract: A flexible circuit electrode array and method of fabrication having a polymer base layer; metal traces deposited on the polymer base layer, including electrodes to stimulate tissue; a polymer top layer deposited on the polymer base layer and metal traces; and a coating of the base and top layer by a soft polymer. A method of preparing a flexible circuit electrode array, comprising: providing a first soft polymer layer; depositing a first a base layer on the first soft polymer layer; providing a metal thin film on the base layer; depositing a top polymer layer on the metal thin film; providing holes in the top polymer layer; depositing a second soft polymer layer on the top polymer layer; providing holes in the second soft polymer layer for bond pads and electrodes; and preparing electrodes in the provided holes.

Abstract: Present invention is a method of improving circadian rhythms in blind people by stimulation the visual neural system. Ideally a retinal prosthesis of the type used to restore vision can be used to restore normal circadian rhythms. Additionally, brightness on the prosthesis can be increased in the morning and decreased in the evening to stimulate normal Circadian rhythms. Alternatively, if a retinal prosthesis is not preferable, the retina can be stimulated externally, during the day and not at night. While such eternal stimulation can not produced artificial vision, it can stimulate normal circadian rhythms.

Abstract: A method of editing a video configuration file downloadable to or from a video processing unit of a fitting system for a visual prosthesis is shown. The visual prosthesis has a plurality of electrodes and the video configuration file defines mapping of a video signal captured from a camera of the visual prosthesis to an electrical signal for the electrodes. The editing controls a brightness map for an individual electrode or electrode groups, together with a temporal stimulation pattern to which an individual electrode or electrode groups are assigned. A related computer-operated system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A stimulation system stimulates anatomical targets in a patient for treatment of dry eye. The system may include a controller and a microstimulator. The controller may be implemented externally to or internally within the microstimulator. The components of the controller and microstimulator may be implemented in a single unit or in separate devices. When implemented separately, the controller and microstimulator may communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection. The microstimulator may generate pulses from a controller signal and apply the signal via one or more electrodes to an anatomical target. The microstimulator may not have any intelligence or logic to shape or modify a signal. The microstimulator may be a passive device configured to generate a pulse based on a signal received from the controller. The microstimulator may shape or modify a signal. Waveforms having different frequency, amplitude and period characteristics may stimulate different anatomical targets in a patient.

Abstract: This invention is a retinal electrode array assembly and methods of using the same that facilitate surgical implant procedures by providing the operating surgeon with visual references and grasping means and with innovations that reduce actual and potential damage to the retina and the surrounding tissue.

Abstract: The present invention is an electrode array for neural stimulation. In particular it is an electrode array for use with a visual prosthesis with the electrode array suitable to be positioned on the retina. The array includes multiple attachment points to provide for even pressure across the electrode array surface. The attachment points are arranged so as to not damage retinal tissue stimulated by the electrode array.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided, including an external device, including a mount, which is placed in front of an eye of a subject. A laser is coupled to the mount and configured to emit toward the eye radiation that is outside of 380-750 nm. A partially-transparent mirror is coupled to the mount. An intraocular device is implanted entirely in the subject's eye, and includes a plurality of stimulating electrodes, and an energy receiver, which receives the radiation from the laser and generates a voltage drop in response thereto. A plurality of photosensors detect photons and generate a signal in response thereto. Driving circuitry is coupled to the energy receiver and to the photosensors, and receives the signals from the photosensors and utilizes the voltage drop to drive the electrodes to apply currents to the retina in response to the signals from the photosensors. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: The present technology provides an organic based artificial retina device that includes a substrate and an array of micro-electrodes formed on the substrate. The illustrative artificial retina device further includes a photoconducting polymer blend deposited on the array of micro-electrodes. The photoconducting polymer blend is configured to produce a photoelectric signal in response to receiving light.

Abstract: An external device (20) includes a mount (22), which is placed in front of a subject's eye. A laser (24) is coupled to the mount (22) and emits radiation (26) that is outside of 380-750 nm. A partially-transparent mirror (23) is coupled to the mount (22). An intraocular device (30) is implanted entirely in the subject's eye, and includes a plurality of stimulating electrodes (38), and an energy receiver (32), which receives the radiation (26) from the laser (24) and generates a voltage drop. A plurality of photosensors (34) detect photons (33) and generate a signal. Driving circuitry (36) is coupled to the energy receiver (32) and to the photosensors (34), and receives the signals from the photosensors (34) and utilizes the voltage drop to drive the electrodes (38) to apply currents to the retina in response to the signals from the photosensors (34). Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to the design and fabrication of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) for applications in such varied fields as the biomedical, micro-fluidics and chemical analysis fields for wireless data and power transfer.

Abstract: A visual restoration aiding device for restoring vision of a patient, comprises: a signal generation unit including a substrate to be placed on an outer side of a choroid of a patient's eye and a plurality of electrodes arranged on the substrate for applying electrical stimulation pulse signals to cells constituting a retina; a photographing unit which photographs an object to be recognized by the patient; and a processing unit which converts image data obtained by the photographing unit to data for electrical stimulation pulse signal and transmits the converted data to the signal generation unit: wherein, based on the data for electrical stimulation pulse signal transmitted from the processing unit, the signal generation unit forms a waveform of an electrical stimulation pulse signal to be outputted from each electrode into a biphasic rectangular wave including rectangular waves of opposite polarities, and sets a pulse width of the electrical stimulation pulse signal to 0.2 msec. or more and 2 msec. or less.

Abstract: Polymer materials are useful as electrode array bodies for neural stimulation. They are particularly useful for retinal stimulation to create artificial vision, cochlear stimulation to create artificial hearing, and cortical stimulation, and many related purposes. The pressure applied against the retina, or other neural tissue, by an electrode array is critical. Too little pressure causes increased electrical resistance, along with electric field dispersion. Too much pressure may block blood flow. Common flexible circuit fabrication techniques generally require that a flexible circuit electrode array be made flat. Since neural tissue is almost never flat, a flat array will necessarily apply uneven pressure. Further, the edges of a flexible circuit polymer array may be sharp and cut the delicate neural tissue. By applying the right amount of heat to a completed array, a curve can be induced.

Abstract: A device and method are presented for drug-free, non-invasive, modulation of a size of a patient's pupil. The invention utilizes application of an external electric and/or magnetic field of desired properties to the patient's iris to thereby effect stimulation or neutralization of synapses and thus temporarily inducing mydriasis or miosis effect.

Abstract: Present invention is a method of improving circadian rhythms in blind people by stimulation the visual neural system. Ideally a retinal prosthesis of the type used to restore vision can be used to restore normal circadian rhythms. Additionally, brightness on the prosthesis can be increased in the morning and decreased in the evening to stimulate normal Circadian rhythms. Alternatively, if a retinal prosthesis is not preferable, the retina can be stimulated externally, during the day and not at night. While such eternal stimulation can not produced artificial vision, it can stimulate normal circadian rhythms.

Abstract: This invention is methods of reducing stress in the retina that are caused by the implanted electrode array body having an oval shape that is curved to conform to the curvature of the retina and having a mounting aperture in the body for attaching the electrode array to the retina with a tack where a strain relief internal tab is place around a strain relief slot.

Abstract: Methods of electrically stimulating percepts in a patient with a visual prosthesis are discussed. Changes in amplitude of stimulation increase both the perceived brightness and the perceived size of the precept. Changes in frequency of stimulation change the perceived brightness without altering the perceived size of the percept. Hence, a source image may be mapped to a combination of amplitude and frequency that best induces the desired image.

Abstract: A method of testing subjects' perception of complex shapes created by patterned multi-electrode direct stimulation of a retinal prosthesis is described. The complex shapes can be geometric shapes or characters such as letters of the alphabet and numbers.

Abstract: Directly modulating a beam of photons onto the retinas of patients who have vision impairment or blindness. Its purpose is to supply enough imaging energy to retinal prosthetics implanted in the eye which operate essentially by having light, activating photoreceptors, or photoelectrical material. Providing sufficient light amplification logarithmically. Output light level being at a safe level. Providing balanced biphasic stimulation with no net charge injection into the eye. Optical and electronic magnification is used for the image with an optical zoom lens. It would not be feasible to zoom in on items of particular interest or necessity. Without proper adjustment, improper threshold amplitudes would obtain, also uncomfortable maximum thresholds. Proper adjustment for the threshold amplitudes and maximum comfortable thresholds is provided.

Abstract: The invention is a retinal prosthesis with an inductive coil mounted to the side of the eye by means of a strap around the eye. This allows for close coupling to an external coil and movement of the entire implanted portion with movement of the eye ball.

Abstract: While a photolithographed array internal to the retina provides superior resolution, an array external to the retina provides easier implantation and improved manufacturability. Therefore it is advantageous to supply a high-resolution electrode array internal to the sclera, near the fovea and a lower-resolution electrode array eternal to the sclera near the periphery of the retina. Even if a separate lower-resolution array is implanted internal to the sclera, super-choroidal (between the choroid and sclera) or intra-scleral (between the layers of the sclera), it is easier to make a lower-resolution array in a curved shape.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for treating an eye of a subject. One or more electrodes are placed at least partially inside the subject's eye. A control unit treats the eye by driving the electrodes to apply an electrical signal to the eye that induces production of nitric oxide (NO). Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting a visual image provided to a patient. In one embodiment, an image may be presented to the patient to obtain the patient's subjective perception of the image, and the patient may either manipulate the image to obtain a desired adjustment, or guide a clinician performing the adjustment. In another embodiment, the clinician may make objective observations of, for example, the position of an electrode array on the patient's retina, and make adjustments accordingly. The adjustment may be a spatial adjustment comprising a re-mapping performed to decreases image distortion resulting from differences in the patient's perception of stimulation of different areas of the retina. Such distortion may result from differences between the patient's perception of stimulation falling within the macula, and stimulation falling within the periphery surrounding the macula. The adjustment may also compensate for translations or rotations of the electrode array on the retina.

Abstract: The present invention is an electrode array for neural stimulation. In particular it is an electrode array for use with a visual prosthesis with the electrode array suitable to be positioned on the retina. The array includes multiple attachment points to provide for even pressure across the electrode array surface. The attachment points are arranged so as to not damage retinal tissue stimulated by the electrode array.

Abstract: A vision regeneration assisting apparatus for regenerating a patient's vision, includes: a housing; a plurality of needle-like electrodes that are formed at the housing and extend from the housing to a predetermined length, the electrodes being configured to stick into an optic papilla of a patient's eye; and a needle-like fixing portion that is formed at the housing, is separated from the electrodes, is formed so that the fixing portion extends from the housing in the same direction in which the electrodes extend, and is configured to maintain a state where the electrodes are stuck in the optic papilla.

Abstract: A visual prosthesis apparatus and a method for limiting power consumption in a visual prosthesis apparatus. The visual prosthesis apparatus comprises a camera for capturing a video image, a video processing unit associated with the camera, the video processing unit configured to convert the video image to stimulation patterns, and a retinal stimulation system configured to stop stimulating neural tissue in a subject's eye based on the stimulation patterns when an error is detected in a forward telemetry received from the video processing unit.

Abstract: An electrode array for neural stimulation is disclosed which has particular applications for use in a retinal prosthesis. The electrode array can be formed as a hermetically-sealed two-part ceramic package which includes an electronic circuit such as a demultiplexer circuit encapsulated therein. A relatively large number (up to 1000 or more) of individually-addressable electrodes are provided on a curved surface of a ceramic base portion the electrode array, while a much smaller number of electrical connections are provided on a ceramic lid of the electrode array. The base and lid can be attached using a metal-to-metal seal formed by laser brazing. Electrical connections to the electrode array can be provided by a flexible ribbon cable which can also be used to secure the electrode array in place.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of stimulating visual neurons to create the perception of light. A visual prosthesis electrically stimulating the retina with implanted electrodes exhibits interaction between electrodes stimulated closely together in both space and time. The method of the present invention includes determining a minimum distance at which spatiotemporal interactions occur, determining a minimum time at which spatiotemporal interactions occur, and avoiding stimulation of electrodes within the minimum distance during the minimum time. The minimum are ideally established for each individual patient. Alternatively, approximate minimums have been established by the applicants at 2 mm and 1.8 ?sec.

Abstract: The object of providing a visual prosthesis in the form of a retinal implant, which is distinguished by the least possible space requirement inside the eye, is achieved according to the present invention by a visual prosthesis having an intraocular implant and an extraocular implant, which supplies the intraocular implant with energy and controls it. The visual prosthesis according to the invention therefore offers the advantage that virtually all the electronic components, which do not necessarily need to be accommodated with the intraocular implant inside the eye, can be arranged outside the eyeball, for example on the sclera. In this way, the space requirement of the stimulation system inside the eye is reduced and the operative intervention for implanting the stimulation system inside the eye is kept as small as possible.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting a visual image provided to a patient. In one embodiment, an image may be presented to the patient to obtain the patient's subjective perception of the image, and the patient may either manipulate the image to obtain a desired adjustment, or guide a clinician performing the adjustment. In another embodiment, the clinician may make objective observations of, for example, the position of an electrode array on the patient's retina, and make adjustments accordingly. The adjustment may be a spatial adjustment comprising a re-mapping performed to decreases image distortion resulting from differences in the patient's perception of stimulation of different areas of the retina. Such distortion may result from differences between the patient's perception of stimulation falling within the macula, and stimulation falling within the periphery surrounding the macula. The adjustment may also compensate for translations or rotations of the electrode array on the retina.

Abstract: The invention is a retinal prosthesis with an improved configuration mounting necessary components within and surrounding the eye. The present invention better allows for the implantation of electronics within the delicate eye structure. The invention further limits the necessary width of a thin film conductor passing through the sclera by use of a multiplexer external to the sclera and a demultiplexer internal to the sclera.

Abstract: An integrated device for improving the visual system of a human subject includes a computer having a timer and in data communication with a display, a current source and a housing that contains the current source in addition to at least one of the display and the computer. The computer and display are adapted to present optical stimuli to a targeted region of an eye. The current source has at least one terminal for connection of at least one electrode assembly. The timer measures a time relationship.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved package and configuration for an implantable retinal prosthesis. The retinal prosthesis of the present invention includes an electrode array suitable to be mounted in close proximity to a retina, an electronics package and inductive receiving coil mounted next to each other on a strap surrounding the sclera so that the height above the sclera of the prosthesis is minimized.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of bonding a hermetically sealed electronics package to an electrode or a flexible circuit and the resulting electronics package, that is suitable for implantation in living tissue, such as for a retinal or cortical electrode array to enable restoration of sight to certain non-sighted individuals. The hermetically sealed electronics package is directly bonded to the flex circuit or electrode by electroplating a biocompatible material, such as platinum or gold, effectively forming a plated rivet-shaped connection, which bonds the flex circuit to the electronics package. The resulting electronic device is biocompatible and is suitable for long-term implantation in living tissue.

Abstract: A method of for prevention of presbyopia and glaucoma envisages stimulation of the ciliary body to determine contraction thereof via a low-voltage d.c. current sent in the form of pulse trains. This contraction, if applied in a rhythmic way at a constant frequency, subjects the ciliary muscle to a passive gymnastics increasing the force of contraction thereof, the dimensions, and the efficiency. This increase of force enables the crystalline to be moved with greater efficiency and consequently increases the power of accommodation thereof. The contraction of the ciliary muscle stretches the tendinous formation in direct contact with the sclero-corneal trabeculate and increases the distance between the lamellae of the sclero-corneal angle, restoring the natural function of the trabeculate and thus preventing glaucoma.

Abstract: Methods and devices for fitting a visual prosthesis are described. In one of the methods, threshold levels and maximum levels for the electrodes of the prosthesis are determined and a map of brightness to electrode stimulation levels is later formed. A fitting system for a visual prosthesis is also discussed, together with a computer-operated system having a graphical user interface showing visual prosthesis diagnostic screens and visual prosthesis configuration screens.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of treating glaucoma by applying an electric field in the vicinity of the juxtacanalicular region of the trabecular meshwork sufficient to cause migration or reorientation of glycosaminoglycans located in the extracellular matrix. A device for applying the electric field includes a controller coupled to a pressure sensor, and a pair of electrodes coupled to a voltage source. The electrodes apply the electric field, and the controller controls the application of the electric field based on IOP measurements from the pressure sensor.