Bionic Eye Prototype Unveiled


A bionic eye protype that could restore sight to those suffering from vision loss has been unveiled at the University of Melbourne. The revolutionary device, developed by Bionic Vision Australia (BVA) researchers at the University of South Wales, works by converting visual input into electrical signals that stimulates the body’s retinal neutrons. The device has yet to be implanted into a live patient, but it is hoped that using this technology will massively improve the quality of life of those with degenerative or inherited eye diseases.

The life-changing technology could be used to treat patients suffering from various retinal diseases including macular degeneration, retentis pigmentosa and more. BVA researchers claim that the bionic device will enable patients to become increasingly mobile and to enjoy a more independent lifestyle. And there are plans to develop this bionic vision technology even further.

The unveiled prototype is currently undergoing testing but BVA is already aiming to produce advanced bionic vision technology within the next five years and has been awarded a Federal Government grant of $42 million to fund further research. The current protype is mounted onto the recipient’s spectacles but BVA researchers - working with a number of leading research institutions - aims to deliver an advanced implant, over the next five years, that will work by transmitting visual data wirelessly. It is hoped that future bionic eye prototypes will enable people suffering from degenerative eye diseases to read, recognise faces and more.

31st March 2010

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