Augmented reality could cure blindness
Combining technology with biology has been restricted to the realm of science-fiction for years. Commonly known as bionics, this concept is feasible despite the fact that it is a very common element in movies, books, and other forms of entertainment. As technology has become more advanced, bionics are quickly becoming more feasible. Recently, researchers in the realm of bionics have begun to focus on augmented reality, suggesting that this technology could be the key to unlocking a new generation of prosthesis for humans.
Device used to treat eye disease
Second Sight, a company specializing in bionics and interactive technology, has developed a prosthetic device that it claims can restore some sight to blind individuals. The device is a retinal prosthetic that makes use of augmented reality to treat patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease that renders the victim blind. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted Second Sight approval for this device, making it the first official treatment for the eye disease in the country.
Augmented reality may help the blind see colors
The device is known as Argus II. It is comprised of a glasses-mounted camera, a powerful mobile computer, and a minute chip that is implanted near a patient’s retina. The camera sends visual information to the system’s computer. This data is then converted into an electrical signal that is transmitted to the implanted chip. The chip is connected to an array of more than 60 electrodes that act as light-sensing cells. The device in its current form enables users to identify outlines of certain objects in their environment. Researchers suggest that augmented reality can be used to make these outlines more defined and even help blind patients see colors.
Argus II continues to gather support
The Argus II has been used in Europe since March 2011 and has been heralded as the first “bionic eye” to reach the market. The capabilities of the device are still limited due to the complexity of human biology and the complications associated with vision itself. Whether Second Sight can successfully implement augmented reality as a way to cure blindness has yet to be seen.
