Multiple-Unit Artificial Retina Chipset System To Benefit The Visually Impaired

A multiple-unit artificial retina chipset (MARC) system to benefit the visually impaired is presented. The rehabilitative device replaces the functionality of defective photoreceptors within patients suffering from Retinal Pigmentosa (RP) and AgeRelated Macular Degeneration (AMD). The components of the MARC system are characterized, from the extraocular video camera, video processing chip, and RF generator and primary coil, to the intraocular secondary coil, rectifier and regulator, MARC processing and demultiplexing chips, and the electrode array. The fabrication and testing of the first three generation MARC VLSI chips are summarized. The novel RF data protocol transfer via RF is outlined, and the chip’s decoding circuitry is characterized. A synthesis of the engineering, biological, medical, and physical research is offered within the presentation of methods and means for the overall design engineering, powering, bonding, packaging, and hermetic sealing of the double-sided MARC retinal prosthesis. The biological and clinical studies pertaining to retinal neural stimulation are discussed, along with their implications for electrode design.