Visual prosthesis for improved circadian rhythms and method of improving the circadian rhythms
AssigneeSecond Sight Medical Products, Inc.
InventorsRobert Greenberg, Mark Humayun
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Abstract
Present invention is a method of improving circadian rhythms in blind people by stimulation the visual neural system. Ideally a retinal prosthesis of the type used to restore vision can be used to restore normal circadian rhythms. Additionally, brightness on the prosthesis can be increased in the morning and decreased in the evening to stimulate normal Circadian rhythms. Alternatively, if a retinal prosthesis is not preferable, the retina can be stimulated externally, during the day and not at night. While such eternal stimulation can not produced artificial vision, it can stimulate normal circadian rhythms.
Claims20
A prosthesis for stimulating circadian rhythms comprising:
- at least one electrode suitable for electrically stimulating visual neurons;
- an electrical driver for applying a controlled electrical potential on said electrode;
- and
- a control circuit including a timer for controlling said electrical driver.
A prosthesis for stimulating circadian rhythms comprising:
- at least one electrode suitable for electrically stimulating visual neurons;
- an electrical driver for applying a controlled electrical potential on said electrode;
- and
- a control circuit that varies intensity of said driver in accordance with measured external light conditions.
A flexible circuit electrode array for improving circadian rhythms, comprising:
- a) an insulating polymer layer;
- b) at least one trace containing a base coating layer, a conducting layer and a top coating layer, embedded in said insulating polymer layer;
- and
- c) at least one electrode connected to said conducting layer of said trace through a via in said insulating polymer layer and said top coating layer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.