Patents Assigned to Space Vacuum Epitaxy Center University of Houston
  • Treating retinal damage by implanting thin film optical detectors
    Patent number: 5873901
    Abstract: A method for treating retinal damage by implanting a thin film optical detector based on a dielectric capacitor. When illuminated, the dielectric capacitor generates an electrical field that replaces signals from damaged retinal photoreceptors in the eye. The generated electric field stimulates healthy local nerve endings and are perceived by the patient as light. In a preferred embodiment, the detectors are implanted onto the retina in groups to provide spatial resolution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: Space Vacuum Epitaxy Center University of Houston
    Inventors: NaiJuan Wu, Alex Ignatiev