Australian researchers develop prototype bionic eye, implants by 2013

An Australian company has unveiled a prototype bionic eye that intends to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from degenerative vision loss.

Bionic Vision Australia calls the concept a wide-view neurostimulator. It was developed by researchers at the University of New South Wales and could help those who suffer from retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.

The device, which is currently being tested, is comprised in part of a miniature camera mounted on glasses. The camera captures visual input and transforms it into electrical signals that directly stimulate surviving neurons in the retina, allowing recipients to perceive points of light that the brain can use to build an image.

"We anticipate that this retinal implant will provide users with increased mobility and independence, and that future versions of the implant will eventually allow recipients to recognise faces and read large print," said University of Melbourne professor Anthony Burkitt.

The team's goal: provide bionic vision in the next five years.

The project is the product of a collaboration among Australian research institutions that include the University of Melbourne, the University of New South Wales, the Bionic Ear Institute, the Centre for Eye Research Australia and NICTA.

This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com