Patents by Inventor James D. Weiland
James D. Weiland has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 10251780Abstract: A three-coil electromagnetic induction power transfer system is disclosed for epiretinal prostheses and other implants. A third, buffer coil is disposed between an external transmitting coil and a receiver coil buried within the body to improve efficiency and robustness to misalignments. One or more of the coils can be manufactured using micromechanical machining techniques to lay out conductors in a ribbon of biocompatible insulator, folding lengths of the insulated conductor traces longitudinally over one another, and then spiraling them into a ring. The traces change axial position in the ring by shifting across fold lines. One or more U-shaped sections on the traces can be folded so that adjacent traces can project opposite one another, lengthening the resulting ribbon that can be wound into a coil.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2015Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Assignees: California Institute of Technology, University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Yu Zhao, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 10111597Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to electrochemical approaches for synthesis of platinum-iridium alloys with selected platinum-iridium ratio content and subsequently predetermined mechanical properties and electrochemical impedance properties. Such can provide a simple and cost-effective process for preparing these electrodes, as compared to conventional thin film processing techniques. A three-electrode electrochemical electrodeposition system is described including an electrochemical cell with a working electrode on which the electrodeposited film is deposited, a counter electrode to complete the electrochemical circuit and a reference electrode to measure and control surface potential. Mixed layers of platinum atoms and iridium atoms can be deposited from electrolyte solution onto the working electrode surface to create an electrically conductive surface with material properties related to the composition of the as-deposited film.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2014Date of Patent: October 30, 2018Assignee: University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Artin Petrossians, Artak Arakelian, James D. Weiland, Florian B. Mansfeld, John J. Whalen, III
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Patent number: 9795786Abstract: The present invention relates to a saliency-based apparatus and methods for visual prostheses. A saliency-based component processes video data output by a digital signal processor before the video data are input to the retinal stimulator. In a saliency-based method, an intensity stream is extracted from an input image, feature maps based on the intensity stream are developed, plural most salient regions of the input image are detected and one of the regions is selected as a highest saliency region.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert Greenberg, Alan Horsager, Mark S. Humayun, Kelly H. McClure, Matthew J. McMahon, Peter Meilstrup, Neha Parikh, Arup Roy, James D. Weiland, Chunhong Zhou
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Publication number: 20160001078Abstract: Saliency-based apparatus and methods for visual prostheses are disclosed. A saliency-based component processes video data output by a digital signal processor before the video data are input to the retinal stimulator. In a saliency-based method, an intensity stream is extracted from an input image, feature maps based on the intensity stream are developed, plural most salient regions of the input image are detected and one of the regions is selected as a highest saliency region.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2015Publication date: January 7, 2016Inventors: Robert Greenberg, Alan Horsager, Mark S. Humayun, Kelly H. McClure, Matthew J. McMahon, Peter Meilstrup, Neha Parikh, Arup Roy, James D. Weiland, Chunhong Zhou
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Publication number: 20150290466Abstract: A three-coil electromagnetic induction power transfer system is disclosed for epiretinal prostheses and other implants. A third, buffer coil is disposed between an external transmitting coil and a receiver coil buried within the body to improve efficiency and robustness to misalignments. One or more of the coils can be manufactured using micromechanical machining techniques to lay out conductors in a ribbon of biocompatible insulator, folding lengths of the insulated conductor traces longitudinally over one another, and then spiraling them into a ring. The traces change axial position in the ring by shifting across fold lines. One or more U-shaped sections on the traces can be folded so that adjacent traces can project opposite one another, lengthening the resulting ribbon that can be wound into a coil.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2015Publication date: October 15, 2015Applicants: California Institute of Technology, University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Yu Zhao, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 9078743Abstract: A three-coil electromagnetic induction power transfer system is disclosed for epiretinal prostheses and other implants. A third, buffer coil is disposed between an external transmitting coil and a receiver coil buried within the body to improve efficiency and robustness to misalignments. One or more of the coils can be manufactured using micromechanical machining techniques to lay out conductors in a ribbon of biocompatible insulator, folding lengths of the insulated conductor traces longitudinally over one another, and then spiraling them into a ring. The traces change axial position in the ring by shifting across fold lines. One or more U-shaped sections on the traces can be folded so that adjacent traces can project opposite one another, lengthening the resulting ribbon that can be wound into a coil.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2013Date of Patent: July 14, 2015Assignees: California Institute of Technology, University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Yu Zhao, Mark Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 9061150Abstract: The present invention is a saliency-based apparatus and methods for visual prostheses. A saliency-based component processes video data output by a digital signal processor before the video data are input to the retinal stimulator. In a saliency-based method, an intensity stream is extracted from an input image, feature maps based on the intensity stream are developed, plural most salient regions of the input image are detected and one of the regions is selected as a highest saliency region.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2008Date of Patent: June 23, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Greenberg, Alan Matthew Horsager, Mark S. Humayun, Kelly H. McClure, Matthew J. McMahon, Peter Meilstrup, Neha Jagdish Parikh, Arup Roy, James D. Weiland, Chunhong Zhou
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Publication number: 20150105864Abstract: The invention provides a biocompatible silicone implant that can be securely affixed to living tissue through interaction with integral membrane proteins (integrins). A silicone article containing a laser-activated surface is utilized to make the implant. One example is an implantable prosthesis to treat blindness caused by outer retinal degenerative diseases. The device bypasses damaged photoreceptors and electrically stimulates the undamaged neurons of the retina. Electrical stimulation is achieved using a silicone microelectrode array (MEA). A safe, protein adhesive is used in attaching the MEA to the retinal surface and assist in alleviating focal pressure effects. Methods of making and attaching such implants are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2014Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventors: Adrian P. Rowley, Lucien D. Laude, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland, Atoosa Lotfi, Francis S. Markland, Jr.
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Publication number: 20150010777Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to electrochemical approaches for synthesis of platinum-iridium alloys with selected platinum-iridium ratio content and subsequently predetermined mechanical properties and electrochemical impedance properties. Such can provide a simple and cost-effective process for preparing these electrodes, as compared to conventional thin film processing techniques. A three-electrode electrochemical electrodeposition system is described including an electrochemical cell with a working electrode on which the electrodeposited film is deposited, a counter electrode to complete the electrochemical circuit and a reference electrode to measure and control surface potential. Mixed layers of platinum atoms and iridium atoms can be deposited from electrolyte solution onto the working electrode surface to create an electrically conductive surface with material properties related to the composition of the as-deposited film.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2014Publication date: January 8, 2015Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIAInventors: Artin Petrossians, Artak Arakelian, James D. Weiland, Florian B. Mansfeld, John J. Whalen, III
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Patent number: 8852290Abstract: The invention provides a biocompatible silicone implant that can be securely affixed to living tissue through interaction with integral membrane proteins (integrins). A silicone article containing a laser-activated surface is utilized to make the implant. One example is an implantable prosthesis to treat blindness caused by outer retinal degenerative diseases. The device bypasses damaged photoreceptors and electrically stimulates the undamaged neurons of the retina. Electrical stimulation is achieved using a silicone microelectrode array (MEA). A safe, protein adhesive is used in attaching the MEA to the retinal surface and assist in alleviating focal pressure effects. Methods of making and attaching such implants are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2008Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Doheny Eye InstituteInventors: Adrian P. Rowley, Lucien D. Laude, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland, Atoosa Lotfi, Francis S. Markland, Jr.
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Patent number: 8795504Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to electrochemical approaches for synthesis of platinum-iridium alloys with selected platinum-iridium ratio content and subsequently predetermined mechanical properties and electrochemical impedance properties. Such can provide a simple and cost-effective process for preparing these electrodes, as compared to conventional thin film processing techniques. A three-electrode electrochemical electrodeposition system is described including an electrochemical cell with a working electrode on which the electrodeposited film is deposited, a counter electrode to complete the electrochemical circuit and a reference electrode to measure and control surface potential. Mixed layers of platinum atoms and iridium atoms can be deposited from electrolyte solution onto the working electrode surface to create an electrically conductive surface with material properties related to the composition of the as-deposited film.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2010Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Artin Petrossians, Artak Arakelian, James D. Weiland, Florian B. Mansfeld, John J. Whalen, III
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Publication number: 20140058506Abstract: A three-coil electromagnetic induction power transfer system is disclosed for epiretinal prostheses and other implants. A third, buffer coil is disposed between an external transmitting coil and a receiver coil buried within the body to improve efficiency and robustness to misalignments. One or more of the coils can be manufactured using micromechanical machining techniques to lay out conductors in a ribbon of biocompatible insulator, folding lengths of the insulated conductor traces longitudinally over one another, and then spiraling them into a ring. The traces change axial position in the ring by shifting across fold lines. One or more U-shaped sections on the traces can be folded so that adjacent traces can project opposite one another, lengthening the resulting ribbon that can be wound into a coil.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicants: University of Southern California, California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Yu Zhao, Mark Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 8583242Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to utilization of one or more arrays that are placed under the choroid. In this approach, an array is placed under the choroid. To achieve this, a scleral incision can be made without cutting the underlying choroid or retina. The array can then be inserted into the space between the sclera and choroid and is pushed to the desired place. It is possible to make several of such scleral incisions in each quadrant of the eye to insert arrays of similar or different shapes into the subchoroidal space. Following insertion of the electrode array the scleral wound may be sutured around the cable to make the array and the eye more stable.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Doheny Eye InstituteInventors: Hossein Ameri, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 8571671Abstract: A critical element of a retinal prosthesis is the stimulating electrode array, which is placed in close proximity to the retina. It is via this interface that a retinal prosthesis electrically stimulates nerve cells to produce the perception of light. The impedance load seen by the current driver consists of the tissue resistance and the complex electrode impedance. The results show that the tissue resistance of the retina is significantly greater than that of the vitreous humor in the eye. Circuit models of the electrode-retina interface are used to parameterize the different contributors to the overall impedance.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2012Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Samip Shah, Amy Chu Peishuan Hines, Dao Min Zhou, Robert J. Greenberg, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 8527056Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Devyani Nanduri, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland, Jessy Dorn, Robert J. Greenberg, Ione Fine
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Publication number: 20130131985Abstract: The system comprises a wearable, electronic image acquisition and processing system (or visual enhancement system) to guide visually impaired individuals through their environment, providing information to the user about nearby objects of interest, potentially dangerous obstacles, their location, and potential paths to their destination.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2012Publication date: May 23, 2013Inventors: James D. Weiland, Mark S. Humayan, Gerard Medioni, Armand R. Tanguay, JR., Vivek Pradeep, Laurent Itti
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Publication number: 20120277620Abstract: A critical element of a retinal prosthesis is the stimulating electrode array, which is placed in close proximity to the retina. It is via this interface that a retinal prosthesis electrically stimulates nerve cells to produce the perception of light. The impedance load seen by the current driver consists of the tissue resistance and the complex electrode impedance. The results show that the tissue resistance of the retina is significantly greater than that of the vitreous humor in the eye. Circuit models of the electrode-retina interface are used to parameterize the different contributors to the overall impedance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2012Publication date: November 1, 2012Inventors: Samip Shah, Amy Chu Peishuan Hines, Dao Min Zhou, Robert J. Greenberg, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 8239036Abstract: A critical element of a retinal prosthesis is the stimulating electrode array, which is placed in close proximity to the retina. It is via this interface that a retinal prosthesis electrically stimulates nerve cells to produce the perception of light. The impedance load seen by the current driver consists of the tissue resistance and the complex electrode impedance. The results show that the tissue resistance of the retina is significantly greater than that of the vitreous humor in the eye. Circuit models of the electrode-retina interface are used to parameterize the different contributors to the overall impedance.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2011Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Samip Shah, Amy Chu Peishuan Hines, Dao Min Zhou, Robert J. Greenberg, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland
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Patent number: 8195266Abstract: Microelectrode assemblies and related methods are disclosed for bio-stimulating and/or bio-sensing a target tissue. The assemblies can include a two-side substrate, an array of microelectrodes, each of the microelectrodes including a nano-wire embedded within the substrate and extending from a proximal end to a distal end and through the substrate, each nano-wire having a diameter preferably less than 1 ?m. The substrate can include portions made of nano-porous material(s) through which the microelectrodes pass. The substrate with the embedded nano-wires can effectively be fluid impermeable. The proximal ends of the nano-wires can be adapted to be connected to an electronic device and the distal ends are adapted to be disposed in a biological environment for bio-stimulating a target tissue and/or bio-sensing activities of the target tissue. Suitable alloys such as platinum, platinum-iridium, and/or other noble-metal-alloyed compositions can be used for the nano-wires.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Doheny Eye InstituteInventors: John J. Whalen, III, James D. Weiland, Mark S. Humayun
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Patent number: 8122596Abstract: An image is captured or otherwise converted into a signal in an artificial vision system. The signal is transmitted to the retina utilizing an implant. The implant consists of a polymer substrate made of a compliant material such as poly(dimethylsiloxane) or PDMS. The polymer substrate is conformable to the shape of the retina. Electrodes and conductive leads are embedded in the polymer substrate. The conductive leads and the electrodes transmit the signal representing the image to the cells in the retina. The signal representing the image stimulates cells in the retina.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2010Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignees: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC, Doheny Eye InstituteInventors: Peter Krulevitch, Dennis L. Polla, Mariam N. Maghribi, Julie Hamilton, Mark S. Humayun, James D. Weiland