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RETINAL CHIPSET FOR THE BLIND
RETINAL CHIPSET FOR BLIND Researchers in USA are developing an eye implant that will
let blind persons read, move around objects in the house and do basic household chores. Aimed at those suffering from macular degeneration and retinits pigmentosa, where the light-sensitive cells on the retina stop working but the nerves survive, the project is a $9-million collaboration between US national research labs and universities. The system, also known as a multiple-unit artificial retinal chipset, involvs multiple components mounted both inside and outside the eye. A spectacle-mounted camera takes video that is then processed and transmitted into the eye by radio. There, a chip made from micro-machined silicon and protective coatings receives the signal and extracts data to stimulate the retinal nerves. Like a crystal radio set, it also extracts the power it needs to run from the radio signal, removing the need for any external wires or internal power pack.
Published: August 15, 2007