Visual prosthesis including an improved video processing unit
The present invention is an improved visual prosthesis including a video processing unit with user controls optimized for use by blind individuals. The controls include easily identifiable shapes. The controls are programmable to provide improved usability with a simple tactile interface.
1. A visual prosthesis comprising:
a camera receiving a video image and sending a video signal to a video processing unit;
a video processing unit converting the video image to stimulation patterns including
a processor circuit altering the video signal according to user input, and
user controls for generating the user input including a programmable slider,
programmable to select a function selected from the group consisting of brightness, gain and sensitivity;
a transmitter receiving stimulation patterns from the video processing unit and sending the wireless signals; and
an implantable portion receiving wireless signals and suitable to stimulate visual neurons.
2. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is a variable resistor with an output connected to an analog digital converter.
3. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is a potentiostat.
4. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is programmable to control brightness.
5. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is programmable to control gain.
6. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is programmable to control sensitivity.
7. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is programmable to control exposure.
8. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is programmable to control contrast.
9. The visual prosthesis according to claim 1 , wherein the programmable slider is programmable to control zoom.
10. A visual prosthesis comprising:
a camera receiving a video image and sending a video signal to a video processing unit;
a video processing unit converting the video image to stimulation patterns including
a processor circuit altering the video signal according to user input,
a housing enclosing the video processing circuitry, and
user controls on the housing for generating the user input including a programmable slider, programmable to select a function selected from the group consisting of brightness, gain and sensitivity;
a transmitter receiving stimulation patterns from the video processing unit and sending the wireless signals; and
an implantable portion receiving wireless signals and suitable to stimulate visual neurons.
11. The visual prosthesis according to claim 10 , wherein the housing includes an inset surrounding the programmable slider.
12. The visual prosthesis according to claim 10 , wherein the housing includes tactile features to assist a blind person in orienting the housing and locate the user controls.