Producing Visual Effects By Stimulation Patents (Class 607/54)
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Patent number: 9919156Abstract: The present invention is a wireless transmission system for a prosthetic apparatus including a mounting system to be worn on a body, a wound wire transmission coil mounted to the mounting system and sending a stimulation signal, an implantable receiving coil receiving the stimulation signal and connected to a hermetic electronics package, an implantable telemetry transmitting coil connected to the hermetic electronics package, and a telemetry receiving coil printed on a printed circuit board, mounted to the mounting system and receiving the telemetry signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2016Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Kelly H McClure, Richard A Castro, Arup Roy, Scott Loftin, Rongqing Dai, Robert J Greenberg, Sumit Yadav
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Patent number: 9919140Abstract: An implantable oxygenator may have a configuration that is suitable for implantation within a human body be implanted within a human body, such as within a human eye. The implantable oxygenator may include an electrolyte reservoir having a configuration suitable for storing electrolyte and an electrolysis system having a configuration that performs electrolysis on a portion of the electrolyte, thereby producing oxygen in the region of the electrolysis system.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2013Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: University of Southern CaliforniaInventors: Mark S. Humayun, Karthik Murali, Ramiro Magalhaes Ribeiro, Yu-chong Tai, Nicholas Scianmarello
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Patent number: 9907969Abstract: An external device is provided for use with an intraocular device configured to be implanted entirely in an eye of a subject. The external device includes a mount configured to be placed in front of the eye and a sensor coupled to the mount and configured to sense a level of ambient light. The external device additionally includes an external power source coupled to the mount and configured to (i) emit toward the eye non-visible light that is outside of 380-750 nm, and (ii) modulate the non-visible light based on the level of ambient light sensed by the sensor. Other application are also described.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2017Date of Patent: March 6, 2018Assignee: NANO-RETINA, INC.Inventors: Ra'anan Gefen, Yossi Gross, Tuvia Liran, Shai Vaingast
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Patent number: 9884180Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods employing contact lens as power source for powering a retinal implant are provided. In an aspect, a contact lens includes a substrate that forms at least part of a body of the contact lens and a circuit disposed on or within the substrate comprising. The circuit includes a power harvesting component configured to receive energy in a first form from an external power source and convert the energy from the first form to a second form and an energy transfer component configured to transmit the energy in the second form to device remote from the contact lens when the contact lens is worn over an eye.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2012Date of Patent: February 6, 2018Assignee: Verily Life Sciences LLCInventors: Harvey Ho, Babak Amirparviz
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Patent number: 9861820Abstract: The present invention consists of an implantable device with a hermetic electronics package that houses electronics. The hermetic package is attached to a flexible circuit electrode array having its electrodes arranged in a trapezoidal electrode array field that is suitable to stimulate the visual cortex. The hermetic electronics package is provided with a fixation structure that secures, protects and dissipates heat from the electronics package. The entire implantable device can be entirely implanted within the head.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2016Date of Patent: January 9, 2018Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Greenberg, Neil Talbot, Proyag Datta, Dustin Tobey, Dao Min Zhou, Jessy Dorn
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Patent number: 9835879Abstract: A system for attaching a device to a glasses frame includes a spring clip that applies pressure to two sides of the glasses frame, and a magnet for attaching the device thereto. The device may attach directly to the magnet, or via a slide-on attachment piece. The spring clip may include a spring arm having distal ends that assist the spring clip in applying pressure to the glasses frames.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: OmniVision Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Yen-Sung Wang
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Patent number: 9823737Abstract: Various embodiments of an intelligent augmented reality personal assistant apparatus integrated (or co-packaged) with an eye motion sensor, a microprocessor or an intelligent microprocessor and an intelligent rendering algorithm are disclosed. Such an augmented reality personal assistant apparatus can interpret/analyze/learn activities, communication or contextual information of a user and recommend relevant and useful information to the user.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2014Date of Patent: November 21, 2017Inventors: Mohammad A Mazed, Sayeeda Mazed
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Patent number: 9802036Abstract: A device for contacting and/or electrically stimulating biological tissue by means of at least one electrode has at least a first unit, on which the at least one electrode is provided and which is configured for implantation in a human or animal body, a second unit, for supplying the first unit with electrical energy, and at least a first and a second conductive track for the voltage supply of the first unit. The first and second conductive tracks are respectively electrically connected to the first and second units and are at different voltage potentials. Spatially between the first and second conductive tracks, at least a first additional conductive track is arranged that is functionally not involved in the voltage supply of the first unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2015Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Assignee: RETINA IMPLANT AGInventor: Martin Kokelmann
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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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Patent number: 9737711Abstract: A system and method is provided for preferentially stimulating a portion of neural tissue including a first type of neurons and a second type of neurons. The method includes defining a waveform characterizing an electrical stimulus, wherein the waveform includes an amplitude-modulated wave of the electric stimulus. The method also includes applying the electrical stimulus having the defined waveform to a stimulating element located in proximity to the neural tissue to selectively activate the first type of neurons while leaving the second type of neurons one of substantially unaffected and suppressed in response to the electrical stimulus.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2014Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Assignee: The General Hospital CorporationInventors: Perry Twyford, Changsi Cai, Shelley Fried
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Patent number: 9700722Abstract: A visual prosthesis in the form of a retinal implant, which is distinguished by the least possible space requirement inside the eye, is achieved by a visual prosthesis having an intraocular implant and an extraocular implant, which supplies the intraocular implant with energy and controls it. 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. A bidirectional inductive interface between an extracorporeal part of the visual prosthesis and an intracorporeal part, including the intraocular and extraocular implants, via which a current supply and bidirectional data transmission can be carried out is provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2016Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: Pixium Vision SAInventors: Thomas Zehnder, Hans-Jurgen Tiedtke
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Patent number: 9694180Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: July 4, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Dennis C. Cheung, Jessy Dorn
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Patent number: 9669209Abstract: A flexible circuit electrode array with more than one layer of metal traces comprising: a polymer base layer; more than one layer of metal traces, separated by polymer layers, deposited on said polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue; and a polymer top layer deposited on said polymer base layer and said metal traces. 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, or cortical stimulation many 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2016Date of Patent: June 6, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Jordan Neysmith, Robert Greenberg, James Little, Brian Mech, Neil Talbot, Qingfang Yao, Dao Min Zhou
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Patent number: 9656059Abstract: A cochlear stimulation device comprising an electrode array designed to provide enhanced charge injection capacity necessary for neural stimulation. The electrode array comprises electrodes with high surface area or a fractal geometry and correspondingly high electrode capacitance and low electrical impedance. The resultant electrodes have a robust surface and sufficient mechanical strength to withstand physical stress vital for long term stability. The device further comprises wire traces having a multilayer structure which provides a reduced width for the conducting part of the electrode array. The cochlear prosthesis is attached by a grommet to the cochleostomy that is made from a single piece of biocompatible polymer. The device, designed to achieve optimum neural stimulation by appropriate electrode design, is a significant improvement over commercially available hand-built devices.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2014Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J Greenberg, David D Zhou, Jordan Matthew Neysmith, Kelly H McClure, Jianing Wei, Neil H Talbot, James S Little
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Patent number: 9656078Abstract: In a patient suffering from neural impairment, stimulation is provided to sensory surfaces of the face and/or neck, or more generally to areas of the body that stimulate the trigeminal nerve, while performing an activity intended to stimulate a brain function to be rehabilitated. The simulation may then be continued after the performance of the activity has ceased. It has been found that the patient's performance of the activity is then improved after stimulation has ceased. Moreover, it tends to improve to a greater extent, and/or for a longer time, when the post-activity stimulation is applied, as compared to when post activity stimulation is not applied.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2015Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Inventors: Yuri P. Danilov, Mitchell E. Tyler, Kurt A. Kaczmarek
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Patent number: 9636496Abstract: The artificial percept of light may be created by electrically stimulating the neurons of the retina. 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. It is advantageous to encourage current to flow through the retina by providing a physically separate and distinct electrode array and return electrode. The high-resolution electrode array and lower-resolution electrode array may be return electrodes for the other, or completely separate return electrodes may be provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2014Date of Patent: May 2, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J Greenberg, Mark S Humayun
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Patent number: 9566191Abstract: Apparatus is provided, including an external device, including a mount, placed in front of an eye, and a laser which emits toward the eye radiation that is outside of 380-750 nm. The apparatus additionally includes an intraocular device which is implanted entirely in the eye, and includes an energy receiver, a plurality of stimulating electrodes, a plurality of photosensors, and driving circuitry coupled to the energy receiver and to the photosensors, and configured to drive the electrodes to apply currents to a retina of the eye in response to the signals from the photosensors. The photosensors are (a) generally insensitive to the energy from the laser, and (b) generally sensitive to visible light. Other applications are also described.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2015Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: NANO-RETINA, INC.Inventors: Ra'anan Gefen, Yossi Gross, Tuvia Liran, Shai Vaingast
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Patent number: 9569657Abstract: The present invention is a system for detecting, tracking and recognizing human faces in a visual prosthesis. In a visual prosthesis, the input camera is always higher resolution than the electrode array providing percepts to the subject. It is advantageous to detect, track and recognize human faces. Then information can be provided to the subject by highlighting the face in the visual scene, providing auditor or vibratory notice that a human face is in the visual scene, looking up the face in a database to state the name of the person in the visual scene, otherwise communication id like providing a custom vibratory pattern corresponding to known individuals (like custom ring tones associated with caller ID) or automatically zooming in on a face to aid the subject in identifying the face.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2012Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Neil Hamilton Talbot, Jerry Ok, Robert J. Greenberg, Gregoire Cosendai, Brian V. Mech, Avraham I. Caspi, Fatima Anaflous, Francesco Merlini, Kelly H. McClure
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Patent number: 9545517Abstract: The present disclosure describes a video device suitable to be word on the head of a user in the form of glasses. The glasses frame supports a camera, active electronics and a battery.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J Greenberg, Mark S Humayun, Rajat N Agrawal, Kevin Wilkin, James S Little, Da-Yu Chang
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Patent number: 9526894Abstract: A visual prosthesis and a method of operating a visual prosthesis are disclosed. Neural stimulation through electrodes is controlled by spatial maps, where a grouped or random association is established between the data points of the acquired data and the electrodes. In this way distortions from the foveal pit and wiring mistakes in the implant can be corrected. Moreover, broken electrodes can be bypassed and a resolution limit can be tested, together with testing the benefit the patient receives from correct spatial mapping.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2015Date of Patent: December 27, 2016Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert Greenberg, Avraham Caspi, Jessy Dorn, Matthew J McMahon
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Patent number: 9526896Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to visual neural stimulation and more specifically to improved usability of a visual prosthesis, and a visual prosthesis structure easily adaptable to the eye or the brain. They system includes a pattern recognition component, and zoom component combined with an indication component for indicating the location of the pattern, such as a face, in a zoomed out image.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2015Date of Patent: December 27, 2016Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert Greenberg, Avraham Caspi, Francesco Merlini, Arup Roy
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Patent number: 9516283Abstract: Visual impairment, or vision impairment, refers to the vision loss of an individual to such a degree as to require additional support for one or more aspects of their life. Such a significant limitation of visual capability may result from disease, trauma, congenital, and/or degenerative conditions that cannot be corrected by conventional means, such as refractive correction, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, medication, or surgery. According to embodiments of the invention a method of augmenting a user's sight is provided comprising obtaining an image of a scene using a camera carried by the individual, transmitting the obtained image to a processor, selecting an algorithm of a plurality of spectral, spatial, and temporal image modification algorithms to be applied to the image by the processor, modifying the image using the algorithm substantially in real time, and displaying the modified image on a display device worn by the individual.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2013Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: eSight Corp.Inventors: Robert Hilkes, Frank Jones, Kevin Rankin
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Patent number: 9492663Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2014Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Arup Roy, Pishoy Maksy, Chunhong Zhou, Kelly H McClure, Robert J Greenberg, Matthew J McMahon, Avraham I Caspi
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Patent number: 9468752Abstract: The Tongue Relaxer comprises of a flat body low voltage electronic therapeutic device as a precise means of releasing excessive and deep muscular restrictive muscular tension within the inside body, base, and root of the tongue. Specifically designed for Voice pedagogy, Speech therapy, Professional singers, Public speakers, however not limited to. Veterinary applications may apply as well! The Tongue Relaxer provides a more reliable, lightweight, yet economical device that can be used by persons of almost any age under supervision. Working singers, actors, or public speakers often times make very unhealthy choices in a desperate attempt to temporarily relieve this tension and free there voices in order to get through a performance. The Tongue Relaxer is an extremely quick, direct, healthy, and effective means of addressing this issue of said tongue tension that eventually effects every singer and public speaker due to sudden environmental changes such as cold and dampness.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2015Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Inventor: Lawrence Keith Rubadou
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Patent number: 9468760Abstract: The present invention provides a light-driven retina chip capable of receiving a signal light and a background light, including: an array of photodiodes and a plurality of background light eliminating units. The array of photodiodes includes a plurality of photodiodes and a plurality of current amplifying circuits. The signal light is converted into an electric signal and the background light is converted into a plurality of background light currents. The photodiodes are correspondingly connected to the current amplifying circuits. The background light eliminating unit includes a plurality of background light sensing circuits and a plurality of current eliminating circuits. The current eliminating circuits are respectively and electrically connected to the photodiodes of the array of photodiodes. The background light currents generated by the photodiodes from the background light are eliminated by the background light eliminating units, thereby enhancing a dynamic range of the light-driven retina chip.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Inventor: Po-Kang Lin
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Patent number: 9452289Abstract: Retinal prostheses are configured to apply retinal stimulus signals based on retinal cell classification such as cell types or cell clusters identified based on retinal cell signals. Cell types are identified based on spontaneous or induced retinal electrical signals and analyzed based on temporal patterns of electrical activity, spatio-temporal voltage waveforms, and signal correlations that can be obtained from temporal spike patterns. Cell type indications are stored, and a signals are applied to the retina based on the stored cell type indications.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2012Date of Patent: September 27, 2016Assignee: Pixium Vision SAInventors: Eduardo-Jose Chichilnisky, Lauren Jepson, Martin Greschner
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Patent number: 9403006Abstract: The present invention is an improved fitting and training system for a visual prosthesis. Fitting a visual prosthesis through automated means is challenging and fitting a visual prosthesis manually is tedious for clinician and patent, and provides great opportunity for error. A hybrid of computer controlled and manual fitting provides effective, efficient and controlled fitting process. The process includes testing a group of electrodes in random order by providing a prompt followed by stimulation and the patient responding if they saw a percept. After each set, a maximum likelihood algorithm is used to determine the next stimulation level, or if further stimulation is needed for each electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2015Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Jessy D Dorn, Arup Roy, Robert J Greenberg, Avraham I Caspi
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Patent number: 9387324Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Neha Vyas, Donald A. Webber, John J. Reinhold, Arup Roy, Richard Agustin Castro, Kelly H. McClure, Robert J. Greenberg
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Patent number: 9352157Abstract: A device for vestibular substitution includes a mouthpiece fitting entirely within a person's mouth in a shape that conforms to the palate. The mouthpiece encases a circuit board containing an electronic system that can deliver electrical pulses to electrical stimulators touching the palate based on head movement. The electronic system includes a motion sensor, a control unit; a stimulation circuit; and a battery. The control unit is preferably a microcontroller with a digital Input/Output capability, a Serial Peripheral Interface/Inter-Integrated Circuit protocol, a timer, and an oscillator for sensor interfacing and timing control. The microcontroller enables processing data from the accelerometer to indicate head movement, and controlling each embedded electrical stimulator to deliver electrical pulses with adjustable waveform parameters. The device may also include a wireless transceiver for remote control of the device from outside the person's mouth.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2013Date of Patent: May 31, 2016Assignee: Innervo Technology LLCInventor: Hui Tang
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Patent number: 9314626Abstract: Visual prosthesis apparatus includes an image receiver, a processor coupled to the image receiver, a stimulation device coupled to the processor, and an eye monitoring device coupled to the processor. The image receiver receives a sequence of images and the processor produces a stimulation signal at least partially in accordance with the received images. The stimulation device receives the stimulation signal and stimulates visual neurons of a user accordingly to provide the user with a visual percept. The eye monitoring device monitors one or more ocular parameters at an eye region of the user, wherein one or more control functions are associated with the monitored ocular parameters. The processor controls the visual prosthesis apparatus in accordance with the monitored ocular parameters and the associated control functions. The one or more ocular parameters can include pupil size, state of closure of the user's eyelid and direction of eye gaze.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2012Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: The Bionics Institute of AustraliaInventors: Hugh Joseph McDermott, Peter John Blamey, Nicholas Campbell Sinclair, Kyle Damon Slater
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Patent number: 9311593Abstract: Apparatus and methods for encoding sensory input information into patterns of pulses and message multiplexing. In one implementation, the patterns of pulses are polychronous (time-locked by not necessary synchronous), and a retinal prosthetic encodes the input signal into the polychronous patterns for delivery via stimulating electrodes. Different polychronous patterns simultaneously encode different sensory signals; (such as different features of the image), thus providing for message multiplexing. Increasing data transmission capacity allows for a reduction in the number of electrodes required for data transmission. In one implementation, an adaptive feedback mechanism is employed to facilitate encoder operation. In another aspect, a computer vision system is described.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2011Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: Brain CorporationInventor: Eugene M. Izhikevich
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Patent number: 9265945Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2010Date of Patent: February 23, 2016Assignee: NANO-RETINA, INC.Inventors: Yossi Gross, Shai Vaingast, Ra'anan Gefen
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Patent number: 9254385Abstract: The present invention is an improved method of stimulating visual neurons to create artificial vision. It has been found that varying current of visual stimulation can create varying percept brightness, varying percept size, and varying percept shape. By determining the attributes of predetermined current levels, and using those attributes to program a video processor, more accurate video preproduction can be obtained. The present invention also includes an electrode array having alternating large and small electrodes in rows at a 45 degree angle to horizontal in the visual field.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert Greenberg, Mark Humayan, Devyani Nanduri, Matthew McMahon, James Weiland
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Patent number: 9220634Abstract: The invention provides a retinal prosthetic method and device that mimics the responses of the retina to a broad range of stimuli, including natural stimuli. Ganglion cell firing patterns are generated in response to a stimulus using a set of encoders, interfaces, and transducers, where each transducer targets a single cell or a small number of cells. The conversion occurs on the same time scale as that carried out by the normal retina. In addition, aspects of the invention may be used with robotic or other mechanical devices, where processing of visual information is required. The encoders may be adjusted over time with aging or the progression of a disease.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2012Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: Cornell UniversityInventor: Sheila Nirenberg
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Patent number: 9205269Abstract: It is critical in an inductively link medical implant, such as a visual prosthesis or other neural stimulator, to adjust the external coil to a location to maximize communication between the external coil and internal coil. Converting the signal strength between the coils to a signal easily discernible by a clinician, preferably an audible tone, facilitates the adjustment of the external coil to a preferred location.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2015Date of Patent: December 8, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: David Marsh, Kelly H McClure, Robert J Greenberg, Walter P Little, Jordan M Neysmith, Brian Coley, Scott Loftin
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Patent number: 9199081Abstract: A sensory substitution device (SSD) for providing a person with neural signals responsive to features of an environment, the SSD comprising: at least one camera that acquires an image of the environment; and at least one corneal neural stimulator that stimulates nerve endings in the cornea of an eye of the person to generate neural signals responsive to the image that propagate to the person's brain.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2011Date of Patent: December 1, 2015Assignees: RAMOT AT TEL AVIV UNIVERSITY LTD., BAR-ILAN UNIVERSITYInventors: Zeev Zalevsky, Michael Belkin
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Patent number: 9198753Abstract: Apparatus for use with an external non-visible light source is provided. The apparatus comprises an intraocular device configured for implantation in a human eye, and comprising an energy receiver. The energy receiver is configured to receive light emitted from the external non-visible light source, and extract energy from the emitted light for powering the intraocular device. The intraocular device is configured to regulate a parameter of operation of the intraocular device based on a modulation of the light emitted by the external non-visible light source and received by the energy receiver. Other embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2014Date of Patent: December 1, 2015Assignee: NANO-RETINA INC.Inventors: Ra'anan Gefen, Yossi Gross, Tuvia Liran, Shai Vaingast
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Patent number: 9192765Abstract: A method and apparatus is described for electrically stimulating a patient's retina with an electrode array (32) implanted in the patient's eye, wherein one or more images are captured; at least one line and/or edge in the images is determined (21), a line of electrodes in the electrode array corresponding to a detected line and/or edge is identified (24); and electrical current is applied simultaneously to electrodes of the identified line of electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2010Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: The Bionics Institute of AustraliaInventors: Mohit Naresh Shivdasani, Christopher Edward Williams, Peter John Blamey
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Patent number: 9186496Abstract: 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 provides for less height of the part external to the eye by mounting a receiver coil around an electronics package.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2013Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J Greenberg, Neil Hamilton Talbot, Brian V Mech, James Singleton Little
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Patent number: 9180296Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2013Date of Patent: November 10, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J Greenberg, Arup Roy
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Patent number: 9155614Abstract: A lens including a flexible refractive optic having a fixed refractive index, an electro-active element embedded within the flexible refractive optic, wherein the electro-active element has an alterable refractive index, and a controller electrically connected to the electro-active element wherein when power is applied thereto the refractive index of the electro-active element is altered.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Assignee: e-Vision Smart Optics, Inc.Inventors: Ronald D. Blum, Joshua N. Haddock, William Kokonaski, John Hunkeler
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Patent number: 9095710Abstract: The present invention is a visual prosthesis for stimulating visual neurons to create the perception of light. The visual prosthesis electrically stimulating the retina with implanted electrodes exhibits interaction between electrodes stimulated closely together in both space and time. The visual prosthesis of the present invention includes means for 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 milliseconds.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2013Date of Patent: August 4, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Alan Matthew Horsager, Geoffrey M Boynton, Robert J Greenberg, Ione Fine
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Patent number: 9089701Abstract: Techniques and functional electrical stimulation to eliminate discomfort during electrical stimulation of the retina are provided. According to a first technique, discomfort is eliminated through control of timing group assignment. According to a second technique, discomfort is eliminated through an edge detection method. According to a third technique, brightness clipping is used to eliminate discomfort. According to a fourth technique, direct reduction of current is obtained by scaling it down by a factor which is dependent on the sum of current in all electrodes. According to a fifth technique, the current being fed to each electrode is adjusted, by dividing it by a weighted sum of currents fed to the surrounding electrodes. According to a sixth technique, a method based on the current summation effect is used. According to a seventh technique, a large return electrode is used. According to an eighth technique, the return electrode is used for a pseudo-multi-polar stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2009Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Chunhong Zhou, Avraham I. Caspi, Kelly H. McClure, Matthew J. McMahon, Arup Roy, Robert J. Greenberg
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Patent number: 9089702Abstract: The present invention is an improved fitting and training system for a visual prosthesis. Fitting a visual prosthesis through automated means is challenging and fitting a visual prosthesis manually is tedious for clinician and patent, and provides great opportunity for error. A hybrid of computer controlled and manual fitting provides effective, efficient and controlled fitting process. The process includes testing a group of electrodes in random order by providing a prompt followed by stimulation and the patient responding if they saw a percept. After each set, a maximum likelihood algorithm is used to determine the next stimulation level, or if further stimulation is needed for each electrode.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2012Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Jessy D Dorn, Arup Roy, Robert J Greenberg, Avraham I Caspi
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Patent number: 9072900Abstract: A visual prosthesis and a method of operating a visual prosthesis are disclosed. Neural stimulation through electrodes is controlled by spatial maps, where a grouped or random association is established between the data points of the acquired data and the electrodes. In this way distortions from the foveal pit and wiring mistakes in the implant can be corrected. Moreover, broken electrodes can be bypassed and a resolution limit can be tested, together with testing the benefit the patient receives from correct spatial mapping.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Avraham Caspi, Jessy Dorn, Matthew J. McMahon, Robert J. Greenberg
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Patent number: 9066845Abstract: An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats a disease or medical condition of a patient through application of stimulation pulses applied at a specified acupoint or other target tissue location at a very low duty cycle. In a preferred implementation, the IEAD is an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing, with at least one electrode on the top or bottom surface of the housing functioning as a cathode, and at least one electrode on the perimeter edge of the housing functioning as an anode. The electrodes may be segmented to include an array of smaller cathodic or anodic electrodes, each of which may be selectively turned ON or OFF so as to provide a convenient mechanism for adjusting the density of the stimulus current flowing through the cathodic electrode surface area.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2013Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: Valencia Technologies CorporationInventors: David K. L. Peterson, Chuladatta H. Thenuwara
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Patent number: 9044591Abstract: The present invention is a visual prosthesis for the restoration of sight in patients with lost or degraded visual function. The visual prosthesis includes a user interface which controls function of the visual prosthesis to optimize operation for each individual patient. The user interface controls functions such as brightness, contrast, magnification, frequency, pulse width, or amplitude. The user interface may also individually control points of neural stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2014Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert Greenberg, Joseph H Schulman
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Patent number: 9037252Abstract: The present invention provides a visual prosthesis comprising: image capture means for capturing an image from a surrounding environment; image processing means for processing the image and converting the image into a transmissible image signal; signal processing means for processing and converting the image signal into a stimulation signal; and a retina stimulation device (10) adapted to stimulate the retina of both left and right eyes in accordance with the stimulation signal. The retina stimulation device (10) comprises a left-side stimulation unit (11) having an electrode array (12) for stimulating the retina of the left eye, and a right-side stimulation unit (11?) having an electrode array (12?) for stimulating the retina of the right eye, with the left-side stimulation unit (11) having a configuration which is reversed with respect to a configuration of the right-side stimulation unit (11?).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: PIXIUM VISION SAInventor: Hans-Jürgen Tiedtke
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Patent number: 9008785Abstract: A retinal prosthesis including an electronic stimulation unit housed inside an eye and including: a plurality of electrodes that contact a portion of a retina of the eye; an electronic control circuit, which is electrically connected to the electrodes and supplies to the electrodes electrical stimulation signals designed to stimulate the portion of retina; and a local antenna connected to the electronic control circuit. The retinal prosthesis further includes an electromagnetic expansion housed inside the eye and formed by a first expansion antenna and a second expansion antenna electrically connected together, the first expansion antenna being magnetically or electromagnetically coupled to an external antenna, the second expansion antenna being magnetically or electromagnetically couple to the local antenna, the electromagnetic expansion moreover receiving an electromagnetic supply signal transmitted by the external antenna and generating a corresponding replica signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2011Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventor: Alberto Pagani
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Patent number: 9002462Abstract: The present invention is an improved method of providing flexible image possessing in a visual prosthesis by providing downloadable video filters. In a visual prosthesis, the input video image is normally higher resolution than the output stimulation of the retina, optic nerve or visual cortex. It is 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. Examples of situation dependent filters include reverse image, contrast increasing, edge detection, segmentation using chromatic information and motion detection. Filters loaded in the video processing unit may be selected dynamically to suit the situation or the user's preference. It is therefore advantageous to provide flexibility in applying filters. However, it is also important to maintain the security necessary for a medical device.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Kelly H McClure, Arup Roy, Sumit Yadav, Pishoy Maksy, Peter Melistrup