Patent Description:
The cornea is the normally clear anterior portion of the eye. When the cornea is functioning properly, it allows light into the eye and helps focus this onto the retina, providing vision. When damaged, the clear tissue of the cornea becomes opaque and the patient loses visual function, resulting in a condition known as corneal opacity. Corneal opacity can be caused by injuries (e.g., chemical exposure), infections (e.g., corneal ulcers or trachoma), and inherited genetic conditions or dystrophies which develop later in life (e.g., corneal dystrophies such as Fuchs' dystrophy). While degenerative conditions worsen gradually, injuries and infections often develop quickly and require the patient to seek a solution as soon as possible to carry on with their lives. Moreover, since industrial accidents are a major cause of corneal injury, corneal problems affect a younger population than other eye conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Such younger patients also have a much longer lifespan once their vision has been impaired.

<CIT> discloses a device for projecting an image onto a retina, including a projector connected to an image memory for generating an optical image on a display device that is adapted for a disposition within the eye at a position posterior to the cornea. Furthermore, <CIT> discloses an artificial vision system including a sealed capsule adapted for intra ocular placement upstream of a retina, an electronic display located within the sealed capsule and focusing optics located within the sealed capsule and arranged for focusing an image on the electronic display onto the retina.

While corneal transplantation can be used to restore clarity as long as certain intraocular tissues remain intact, such procedures are high risk, have a high failure rate, and there is a limited availability of corneas worldwide due to donor shortages. For example, one study has reported that the success rate of routine (i.e., non-high-risk) transplantations is approximately <NUM>% at <NUM> years after transplantation and the success rate of high-risk transplantations drops to less than <NUM>% at <NUM> years after transplantation. Corneal transplants can fail due to rejection of the transplanted tissue, infection by bacteria or viruses, or when blood vessels have grown into the diseased or damaged cornea prior to transplantation. Moreover, a study conducted using data collected from more than one hundred countries showed that an estimated <NUM> million people are on corneal transplant waiting lists.

Furthermore, while retinal artificial visions systems such as the Argus™ II and Alpha IMS systems have been used to restore vision to patients with outer retina degeneration. These devices are not designed for use with patients with intact outer retinas such as those suffering solely from cornea related blindness. Moreover, patients who have undergone such procedures must use eye drops daily for up to five years, must see an ophthalmologist every month for one year (then every three months for <NUM> years), and must have access to an ophthalmologist within <NUM> hours if an infection occurs. In addition, the cost of implanting such a system can add up to almost $<NUM>,<NUM> to $<NUM>,<NUM>.

Therefore, improved devices and systems are needed to treat blindness caused by corneal degeneration that are robust and long-lasting. Such devices and systems should be cost-effective compared to current artificial systems, require less time and effort to implant, and could serve as either a short-term solution to patients awaiting a corneal transplant or a long-term solution that bypasses transplantation altogether.

Disclosed herein are implantable devices and systems for vision restoration. More particularly, the present invention provides for a vision restoration device as defined by claim <NUM> and a vision restoration system as defined by claim <NUM>. Preferred embodiments of the invention are laid down in the dependent claims. The vision restoration device can comprise an intraocular projection component configured to be implanted within an eye of the subject. The intraocular projection component can comprise a projector configured to project one or more digital images onto a central retina of the subject.

In some embodiments, the projector can comprise a projector housing comprising a front housing interior wall and a back housing interior wall. The projector housing can be substantially cuboid. The projector housing can be made in part of at least one of medical grade poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), medical grade silicone, and medical grade polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

The projector housing can further comprise a front housing comprising a front housing interior wall and a back housing comprising a back housing interior wall. The projector housing can comprise a housing cavity when the front housing is coupled to the back housing. The housing cavity can be surrounded by interior housing walls and the interior housing walls can be coated by a light-sealing coating. In one embodiment, the light-sealing coating can comprise a silver-colored coating. In an alternative embodiment, the light-sealing coating can comprise a black-colored coating.

The projector can also comprise an electronic display housed within the projector housing and configured to display the digital image. In one embodiment, the electronic display can be a liquid-crystal display (LCD) display.

The projector can further comprise a first polarizing filter positioned in between the electronic display and the front housing interior wall within the projector housing. The projector can also comprise a light emitting component configured to generate and direct light at the electronic display. At least part of the light emitting component can be housed within the projector housing. The light emitting component can be a light reflecting enclosure housing one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

The projector can also comprise a light diffuser configured to diffuse the light produced by the light emitting component. The light diffuser can be housed within the projector housing. A second polarizing filter can be positioned in between the light diffuser and the electronic display within the projector housing.

The intraocular projection component can also comprise one or more lenses coupled to the projector and configured to focus the one or more digital images. In some embodiments, the lens can be a plano-convex lens having a convex side and a substantially planar side. The convex side of the plano-convex lens can be positioned anterior to the substantially planar side when the intraocular projection component is implanted within the eye of the subject. In these and other embodiments, the intraocular projection component can comprise two or more lenses positioned in series when coupled to the projector. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more lenses can be an adjustable lens such that the adjustable lens is translatable relative to the projector.

In certain embodiments, the projector housing can comprise a projector lens shroud protruding from a front housing of the projector housing. The one or more lenses can be coupled to the projector lens shroud.

In some embodiments, the projector can have a width dimension ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>, a length dimension ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>, and a depth dimension ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In these and other embodiments, the one or more lenses can each have a lens diameter and a lens depth dimension. The lens diameter can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM> and the lens depth dimension can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the intraocular projection component can comprise two or more scleral haptics coupled to the projector. The scleral haptics can be configured to secure the intraocular projection component to a sclera of the subject. In other embodiments, the intraocular projection component can comprise two or more haptics comprising suture openings. The suture openings can be configured to allow the intraocular projection component to be secured to the eye using sutures.

The vision restoration device can further comprise an extraocular component configured to be implanted within the subject. The extraocular component can comprise one or more processors programmed to execute instructions stored in a memory to wirelessly receive the one or more digital images from an extracorporeal device.

In some embodiments, the extracorporeal device can comprise a digital camera and a wireless communication processor. The digital camera can be configured to capture the one or more digital images and the wireless communication processor can be programmed to execute instructions stored in a memory to wirelessly transmit the one or more digital images to the extraocular component. In other embodiments, the extracorporeal device can be at least one of a smartphone, a laptop, and a tablet computer.

The extraocular component can also comprise a wireless power and data receiver coil. The wireless power and data receiver coil can be configured to receive power wirelessly from a wireless power and data transmitter coil of the extracorporeal device positioned in proximity to the wireless power and data receiver coil. In some embodiments, the extraocular component can comprise a rechargeable battery configured to be recharged using power received wirelessly via the wireless power and data receiver coil.

The vision restoration device can further comprise a trans-scleral communication wire connecting or electrically coupling the intraocular projection component to the extraocular component. The trans-scleral communication wire can be configured to transmit digital data between the extraocular component and the intraocular projection component. The trans-scleral communication wire can comprise a first wire segment coupled to the intraocular projection component, a second wire segment coupled to the extraocular component, and a wire connector connecting the first wire segment to the second wire segment. The wire connector can be configured to allow the first wire segment to be detached from the second wire segment.

The trans-scleral communication wire can be made in part of a plurality of conductive wires covered by a biocompatible polymeric material. In some embodiments, at least one of the conductive wires can be made in part of at least one of copper, gold, and silver. The biocompatible polymeric material can be made in part of at least one of medical grade silicone, medical grade thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), medical grade thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), and medical grade polyvinyl chlorides (PVCs). At least a part of the trans-scleral communication wire can be coupled to an electronic display within the projector.

In another embodiment, a vision restoration system is disclosed. The vision restoration system can comprise an extracorporeal device comprising a wearable support structure configured to be worn by a subject, a digital camera coupled to the wearable support structure, and a processor housing comprising a camera processor and a wireless communication processor.

The wearable support structure can be configured to be worn in proximity to the eyes of the subject. In one embodiment, the wearable support structure can be an eyeglass frame. In another embodiment, the wearable support structure can be a headband configured to be worn on a head of the subject.

The extracorporeal device can further comprise a power supply coupled to the wearable support structure and a camera processor programmed to execute instructions stored in a camera memory to instruct the digital camera to capture one or more digital images.

The extracorporeal device can also comprise a wireless power and data transmitter coil housed within a coil housing coupled to the wearable support structure. The wireless power and data transmitter coil can be coupled to a portable power supply;.

The vision restoration system can also comprise an extraocular component configured to wirelessly receive the one or more digital images captured by the digital camera from the extracorporeal device. The extraocular component can be configured to be implanted within the subject. The extraocular component can also comprise a wireless power and data receiver coil configured to receive power wirelessly via the wireless power and data transmitter coil.

The vision restoration system can also comprise an intraocular projection component configured to be implanted within an eye of the subject. The intraocular projection component can comprise a projector configured to project the one or more digital images received by the extraocular component onto a central retina of the subject and one or more lenses coupled to the projector configured to focus the one or more digital images.

The vision restoration system can further comprise a trans-scleral communication wire connecting the extraocular component to the intraocular projection component. The trans-scleral communication wire can be configured to transmit digital data between the extraocular component and the intraocular projection component.

In another embodiment, a method of restoring vision to a subject is disclosed which does not fall under the claimed invention. The method can comprise implanting an intraocular projection component within an eye of a subject by securing the intraocular projection component to an anterior portion of the eye. The intraocular projection component can be secured to the anterior portion of the eye using two or more scleral haptics. The intraocular projection component can also be secured to the sclera of the eye using sutures.

In one embodiment, implanting the intraocular projection component within the eye of a subject can comprise first removing a cornea of the subject and then replacing the cornea of the subject with another cornea, an artificial cornea, or a combination thereof after the intraocular projection component is implanted within the eye. Alternatively, the method can comprise suturing the cornea of the subject back onto the eye after the intraocular projection component is implanted within the eye.

The method can also comprise implanting an extraocular component subcutaneously within the subject. The extraocular component can be connected to the intraocular projection component by a trans-scleral communication wire. The method can further comprise receiving one or more digital images wirelessly using one or more processors within the extraocular component from an extracorporeal device. The one or more processors can be programmed to execute instructions stored in a memory of the extraocular component to receive the one or more digital images and store the digital images in the memory of the extraocular component. The method can also comprise projecting the one or more digital images onto a central retina in a posterior portion of the eye using a projector of the intraocular projection component. The one or more digital images can be received by the intraocular projection component from the extraocular component via the trans-scleral communication wire.

In some embodiments, the one or more digital images can be captured using the extracorporeal device. The one or more digital images can then be wirelessly transmitted to the extraocular component using a short-range communication protocol.

The method can further comprise focusing the one or more digital images projected onto the central retina of the subject using one or more plano-convex lenses of the intraocular projection component. In one embodiment, the method can also comprise adjusting the position of at least one of the plano-convex lenses by translating the plano-convex lens in at least one of an anterior direction and a posterior direction relative to a projector of the intraocular projection component.

The extraocular component can also comprise a wireless power and data receiver coil. The method can also comprise transferring power wirelessly to the wireless power and data receiver coil using a wireless power and data transmitter coil within an extracorporeal device.

In one embodiment, the method can comprise removing a lens capsule of the subject prior to securing the intraocular projection component and implanting the intraocular projection component in place of the lens capsule. In an alternative embodiment, the method can comprise implanting the intraocular projection component within the lens capsule of the eye. In a further embodiment, the method can comprise implanting the intraocular projection component within the eye of the subject by securing the intraocular projection component to the anterior chamber of the eye. In yet another embodiment, the method can comprise securing the intraocular projection component to the cornea of the subject using sutures.

In these and other embodiments, the method can comprise implanting the extraocular component subcutaneously in a retroauricular region of the subject. In an alternative embodiment, the method can also comprise implanting the extraocular component within an orbit of the subject. In yet another embodiment, the method can also comprise implanting the extraocular component subcutaneously in proximity to a temple of the subject. In another embodiment, the method can further comprise securing the extraocular component to a surface of the eye.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of a vision restoration device <NUM> implanted within a subject. In some embodiments, the subject can be a human subject. In other embodiments, the subject can be a non-human animal subject such as a canine subject, a feline subject, or a non-human primate subject. The vision restoration device <NUM>, along with the systems and methods disclosed herein, can be used to restore vision to a subject suffering loss of visual function. For example, the vision restoration device <NUM> disclosed herein can be used to restore vision to a subject afflicted with corneal opacity. The vision restoration device <NUM>, along with the systems and methods disclosed herein, can also be used to restore vision to a subject determined to be unsuited for corneal transplantation or awaiting a cornea transplant.

The vision restoration device <NUM> can comprise an intraocular projection component <NUM>, an extraocular component <NUM>, and a trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> connecting the intraocular projection component <NUM> to the extraocular component <NUM>. The intraocular projection component <NUM> can be configured to be implanted within an eye of the subject. The extraocular component <NUM> can be configured to be implanted subcutaneously in various locations in proximity to the eye or the ear of the subject. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the extraocular component <NUM> can be implanted subcutaneously in a retroauricular region of the subject. As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, the extraocular component <NUM> can also be secured to an outer surface of the eye.

The trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can be configured to transmit digital data between the extraocular component <NUM> and the intraocular projection component <NUM>. The trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can cross or extend through the sclera <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the eye when the intraocular projection component <NUM> is implanted within the eye of the subject and the extraocular component <NUM> is implanted outside of the eye or on an exterior surface of the eye. The trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can comprise a first wire segment <NUM> coupled to the intraocular projection component <NUM>, a second wire segment <NUM> coupled to the extraocular component <NUM>, and a wire connector <NUM> connecting the first wire segment <NUM> to the second wire segment <NUM>. At least a portion of the first wire segment <NUM> can extend into or penetrate through the sclera <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the subject. The wire connector <NUM> can be configured to allow the second wire segment <NUM> to be detached from the first wire segment <NUM>. Detaching the second wire segment <NUM> from the first wire segment <NUM> can allow the extraocular component <NUM> to be repaired or replaced without having to disturb the intraocular projection component <NUM>. Moreover, the wire connector <NUM> (and breaking the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> into two segments) can allow the intraocular projection component <NUM> to be implanted in a first procedure and the extraocular component <NUM> to be implanted in a second procedure. The first wire segment <NUM> and the second wire segment <NUM> can then be attached or connected together using the wire connector <NUM> during or after the second procedure.

The intraocular projection component <NUM> can comprise a projector <NUM> configured to be implanted within the eye and secured or affixed to an anterior portion <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the eye. The projector <NUM> can also be configured to project one or more digital images <NUM> within the eye. In one embodiment, the projector <NUM> can be configured to project one or more digital images <NUM> onto a central retina <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the subject. As shown in <FIG>, the central retina <NUM> is in a posterior portion <NUM> of the eye.

As shown in <FIG>, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can also comprise two or more securing haptics <NUM> coupled to the projector <NUM> and configured to secure the intraocular projection component <NUM> to the eye. In one embodiment, the securing haptics <NUM> can be scleral haptics configured to secure the intraocular projection component <NUM> to the sclera <NUM> of the subject. Although two securing haptics <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, it is contemplated by this disclosure that between three and twelve haptics (arranged uniformly around the projector <NUM>) can be used to secure the intraocular projection component <NUM> to the eye.

The intraocular projection component can also comprise one or more lenses <NUM> coupled to the projector <NUM> and configured to focus the one or more digital images <NUM>. The lenses <NUM> will be discussed in more detail in the following sections.

The projector <NUM> can display and project one or more digital images <NUM> stored in a memory of the extraocular component <NUM>. The extraocular component <NUM> can comprise one or more processors programmed to execute instructions stored in the memory to wirelessly receive the digital images <NUM> from an extracorporeal device <NUM> (see <FIG>). The one or more processors of the extraocular component <NUM> can also control the display and projection of the digital images <NUM> by the projector <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the extraocular component <NUM> can also comprise a wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM>. The wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can be configured to receive power wirelessly from a wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the extracorporeal device <NUM>. The extracorporeal device <NUM> will be discussed in more detail in the following sections.

<FIG> illustrates the anatomy of a human eye. <FIG> is provided as a reference for understanding the positioning of certain components of the vision restoration device <NUM> within the eye.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a projector <NUM> of the intraocular projection component <NUM>. The projector <NUM> can comprise a projector housing <NUM> comprising a front housing <NUM> and a back housing <NUM>. The front housing <NUM> and the back housing <NUM> can define a housing cavity <NUM> when the front housing <NUM> is coupled to the back housing <NUM>. The front housing <NUM> can be coupled to the back housing <NUM> by adhesives, an interference fit, heat sealing or other polymer welding techniques, or a combination thereof.

As shown in <FIG>, the front housing <NUM> can be substantially shaped as a truncated rectangular pyramid. In other embodiments, the front housing <NUM> can be substantially shaped as a cuboid, a hemisphere, a half-ovoid, a frustoconic, another type of polygonal pyramid, or a combination of such shapes or features. The front housing <NUM> can have an aperture or opening positioned at an apex or fore of the front housing <NUM>. The back housing <NUM> can be substantially shaped as an open or hollow cuboid having five sides.

The back housing <NUM> can also comprise a number of back housing interior walls <NUM> and the front housing <NUM> can comprise a number of front housing interior walls (not visible in <FIG>). The back housing interior walls <NUM> and the front housing interior walls can surround the housing cavity <NUM> when the front housing <NUM> is coupled to the back housing <NUM>. The back housing interior walls <NUM> and the front housing interior walls can be coated or covered by a light-sealing coating or paint. The light-sealing coating will be discussed in more detail in the following sections.

The projector <NUM> can comprise a miniature electronic display <NUM> and a light emitting component <NUM> as the primary electronic components. In some embodiments, the electronic display <NUM> can be a liquid-crystal display (LCD) display. More specifically, the electronic display <NUM> can be an active matrix liquid-crystal display (AMLCD). The electronic display <NUM> can display the digital images <NUM> in color. In some embodiments, the electronic display <NUM> can have an active pixel area of about <NUM> (length dimension) and <NUM> (width dimension). In other embodiments, the length dimension of the active pixel area can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM> and the width dimension of the active pixel area can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In other embodiments contemplated by this disclosure, the electronic display <NUM> can also be a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display, a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, or an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display. In some of these embodiments, the projector <NUM> can operate without at least one of the polarizing filters.

The electronic display <NUM> can be coupled to a display wire <NUM>. The display wire <NUM> can be one or more of the conductive wires making up the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>. The conductive wires or leads from the display wire <NUM> (or trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>) can be electrically coupled to circuitry within the electronic display <NUM>. For example, the conductive wires or leads from the display wire <NUM> (or trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>) can be electrically coupled to inputs along one or more sides or edges of the electronic display <NUM>.

The projector <NUM> can also comprise a light emitting component <NUM> comprising a light reflecting enclosure <NUM> and an LED module <NUM>. The light reflecting enclosure <NUM> can comprise a number of enclosure interior walls <NUM>. The enclosure interior walls <NUM> can be covered or coated with a reflective material or coating to reflect light emitted by the LED module <NUM> in the direction of the electronic display <NUM>. In this manner, the light emitting component <NUM> can act as a backlight to illuminate the electronic display <NUM>. At least one of the LED module <NUM> can be housed within the light reflecting enclosure <NUM> and secured to the light reflecting enclosure <NUM> by adhesives, clips, supports, fasteners, or a combination thereof.

The LED module <NUM> can comprise one or more LEDs. In some embodiments, the LEDs can be OLEDs, microLEDs, or a combination thereof. The one or more LEDs on the LED module <NUM> can have a power output ranging from about <NUM> mW to about <NUM> mW. In one embodiment, the one or more LEDs on the LED module <NUM> can have a power output of about <NUM> mW. The LED module <NUM> can also be coupled to an LED wire <NUM>. The LED wire <NUM> can be one or more of the conductive wires making up the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>. The trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can be introduced into the housing cavity <NUM> through a slot <NUM> or opening defined along an edge or side of the projector housing <NUM>. In one embodiment, the slot <NUM> or opening can be defined along a side of the back housing <NUM>.

The projector <NUM> can further comprise a light diffuser <NUM>, a first polarizing filter <NUM>, and a second polarizing filter <NUM>. The light diffuser <NUM> can be configured to diffuse light emitted by the light emitting component <NUM>. The light diffuser <NUM> can be a thin polymeric film or panel. In some embodiments, the light diffuser <NUM> can have a surface feature or surface treatment configured to diffuse light. The light diffuser <NUM> can be made in part of a medical-grade prismatic acrylic, a medical-grade polycarbonate, or a medical-grade polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The first polarizing filter <NUM> can be positioned in between the electronic display <NUM> and the front housing interior wall. The second polarizing filter <NUM> can be positioned in between the light diffuser <NUM> and the electronic display <NUM>. In this manner, the electronic display <NUM> can be sandwiched or set in between the two polarizing filters. The first polarizing filter <NUM> can have a different polarization orientation (e.g., vertical polarization) than the second polarizing filter <NUM> (e.g., horizontal polarization). For example, the first polarizing filter <NUM> can have a polarization orientation set at <NUM>° from the polarization orientation of the second polarizing filter <NUM>. The second polarizing filter <NUM> can polarize light directed at the electronic display <NUM> (e.g., the LCD display) and the first polarizing filter <NUM> can filter or block out light not intended to be displayed by the electronic display <NUM>. The various components of the projector <NUM> can operate to project one or more digital images <NUM> displayed by the electronic display <NUM> on the central retina <NUM> of the subject.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of an extraocular component <NUM>. In some embodiments, the extraocular component <NUM> can be configured to be implanted subcutaneously in proximity to an eye or ear of the subject. In other embodiments, the extraocular component <NUM> can be configured to be implanted on an eye of the subject.

The extraocular component <NUM> can comprise an extraocular component housing <NUM> comprising a front extraocular housing <NUM> and a back extraocular housing <NUM>. The front extraocular housing <NUM> can be coupled to the back extraocular housing <NUM> to define an extraocular housing cavity <NUM>. The front extraocular housing <NUM> can be coupled to the back extraocular housing <NUM> by adhesives, an interference fit, heat sealing or other polymer welding techniques, or a combination thereof.

The extraocular component <NUM> can also comprise a control processor module <NUM> comprising one or more processors coupled to a miniature printed-circuit board (PCB). The one or more processors of the control processor module <NUM> can comprise a wireless communication processor <NUM>, a display processor <NUM>, or one processor or chip configured to handle both communications and display functions. The one or more processors of the control processor module <NUM> can be implemented as a <NUM>-bit processor or a <NUM>-bit processor. The one or more processors can also be implemented as a multiple-core processor. In some embodiments, the display processor <NUM> can be a multiple-core processor such as a graphics processing (GPU) having numerous processor cores.

In some embodiments, the wireless communication processor <NUM> can be a processor configured to transmit and receive data over a short-range communication protocol such as an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) <NUM> wireless communications standard (e.g., IEEE <NUM>. 11ad, IEEE <NUM>. 11ac, IEEE <NUM>. 11n, etc.). In other embodiments, the communication processor <NUM> can be a processor configured to transmit and receive data over a Bluetooth™ protocol, a Bluetooth™ Low Energy (BLE) protocol, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the wireless communication processor <NUM> can be configured to transmit and receive data over a <NUM> frequency band (e.g., over a WirelessHD™ communications standard, a WiGig™ communications standard, etc.), a <NUM> frequency band, a <NUM> frequency band, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the wireless communication processor <NUM> can be a WiFi chip or module, a WirelessHD™ chip or module, a WiGig™ chip or module, a Bluetooth™ chip or module, a Bluetooth™ Low Energy (BLE) chip or module, or a combination thereof.

In additional embodiments, the wireless communication processor <NUM> can be coupled to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> (see also <FIG>) and can receive data using the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> over a near-field communication (NFC) protocol. In these embodiments, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can serve as a communication antenna as well as a wireless power receiver.

In certain embodiments, the wireless communication processor <NUM> can also be used to control the electronic display <NUM>, the LED module <NUM>, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, a separate display processor <NUM> can be used to control the electronic display <NUM>, the LED module <NUM>, or a combination thereof. The display processor <NUM>, the wireless communication processor <NUM>, or a combination thereof can be programmed to execute instructions stored in a memory unit or memory component coupled to the control processor module <NUM> to receive the one or more digital images <NUM> from an extracorporeal device <NUM> (see <FIG>) and store the one or more digital images <NUM> in the memory unit or memory component. The display processor <NUM>, the wireless communication processor <NUM>, or a combination thereof can also instruct the projector <NUM> to project the one or more digital images <NUM> onto the central retina <NUM> of the subject.

The control processor module <NUM> can also be coupled to a data transmission wire <NUM>. The data transmission wire <NUM> can be part of the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>. For example, the data transmission wire <NUM> can be one or more of the conductive wires making up the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>. The data transmission wire <NUM> can allow the control processor module <NUM> to be connected to the LED module <NUM> and the electronic display <NUM> of the intraocular projection component <NUM>.

The extraocular component <NUM> can also comprise a wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> (see also <FIG>) configured to receive power wirelessly from a wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> (see <FIG>). As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can be part of an extracorporeal device <NUM> configured to be worn by the subject.

The extraocular component <NUM> can further comprise a power module <NUM> comprising one or more coil processors <NUM>. The power module <NUM> can comprise converters, rectifiers, or other electronic components needed to convert power received via the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> into a form usable by the electronic components of the extraocular component <NUM> and the intraocular projection component <NUM>. The coil processors <NUM> can be configured to manage the components of the power module <NUM>.

The power module <NUM> can also be coupled to a power transmission wire <NUM>. The power transmission wire <NUM> can be part of the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>. The power transmission wire <NUM> can be configured to deliver power to the electronic components within the intraocular projection component <NUM>. Although <FIG> illustrates the data transmission wire <NUM> and the power transmission wire <NUM> as two separate wires, it is contemplated by this disclosure and it should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the wires can be combined into one conductive wire or separate portions or segments of the same conductive wire.

The data transmission wire <NUM> and the power transmission wire <NUM> can be introduced into the extraocular housing cavity <NUM> through an opening <NUM> or slot defined along an edge or side of the extraocular component housing <NUM>. In one embodiment, the opening <NUM> or slot can be defined along a side of the back extraocular housing <NUM>.

The extraocular component <NUM> can also comprise a rechargeable battery <NUM> housed within the extraocular component housing <NUM>. The rechargeable battery <NUM> can be recharged by power received wirelessly via the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM>. The rechargeable battery <NUM> can allow the vision restoration device <NUM> to still provide visual function to the subject when the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> (e.g., the extracorporeal device <NUM> comprising the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM>) is not in proximity to the extraocular component <NUM>.

<FIG> is a black-and-white image of the intraocular projection component <NUM> in a disassembled state. As shown in <FIG>, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can comprise at least one lens <NUM> coupled to a portion of the projector housing <NUM> such as the front housing <NUM> of the projector <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the lens <NUM> can be housed within a projector shroud <NUM> extending out from the front housing <NUM>. In one embodiment, the projector shroud <NUM> can be substantially shaped as a hollow cylinder. The projector shroud <NUM> can be configured to secure the lens <NUM> and protect the lens <NUM> from damage. In some embodiments, the lens <NUM> can be configured to translate in an anterior direction, a posterior direction, or a combination thereof when housed within the projector shroud <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail in the following sections, the lens <NUM> can be housed within an adjustable lens housing <NUM> (see <FIG>) and the adjustable lens housing <NUM> can be coupled to the projector shroud <NUM> via a threaded or screw-on connection.

The projector housing <NUM> (including the front housing <NUM> and the back housing <NUM>) can be made in part of a biocompatible polymeric material. In some embodiments, the projector housing <NUM> can be made in part of at least one of medical grade poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), medical grade silicone, and medical grade polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In other embodiments, the projector housing <NUM> can be made in part of a ceramic material.

<FIG> also illustrates that the interior walls of the front housing <NUM> and the back housing <NUM> is coated by a light-sealing coating <NUM>. In one embodiment, the light-sealing coating <NUM> can be a silver-colored or silver-pigmented coating or paint. In another embodiment, the light-sealing coating <NUM> can be a black-colored or black-pigmented coating or paint. More specifically, the light-sealing coating <NUM> can be an acrylic paint, metallic paint, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> is a black-and-white image showing a front side <NUM> and a back side <NUM> of one embodiment of the vision restoration device <NUM> in an assembled state. As shown in <FIG>, the securing haptics <NUM> can be a set of scleral haptics shaped as spiral or curved arms. The scleral haptics can be a set of polymeric filaments or wires positioned at diagonal or opposite corners or sides of the projector housing <NUM>. For example, as seen in <FIG>, one of the scleral haptic arms can be positioned at a first housing corner <NUM> of the projector housing <NUM> and another of the scleral haptic arms can be positioned at a second housing corner <NUM> diagonal to the first housing corner <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the two scleral haptics can delineate a sigmoid-shape or a reverse sigmoid-shape. In other embodiments not shown in <FIG>, the securing haptics <NUM> can be positioned on the top and bottom edges of the projector housing <NUM>, on opposite side edges of the projector housing <NUM>, and along all four corners or sides of the projector housing <NUM>.

<FIG> also illustrates that the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can be a substantially flat ribbon-shaped conductive wire. The trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can be made in part of one or more conductive wires covered by a biocompatible polymeric material. In some embodiments, at least one of the conductive wires can be made in part of at least one of copper, gold, and silver. The biocompatible polymeric material can be made in part of at least one of medical grade silicone, medical grade thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), medical grade thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), and medical grade polyvinyl chlorides (PVCs). In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can comprise a plurality of intertwined or braided conductive wires. In these embodiments, the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can have a substantially circular transverse cross-section.

In all such embodiments, the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can be flexible and bendable. The flexibility and bendability of the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can allow the intraocular projection component <NUM> to be implanted within the eye of the subject in a first planar orientation (i.e., a plane bisecting the projector housing <NUM>) and the extraocular component <NUM> to be implanted in another location within the subject in a second planar orientation (i.e., a plane bisecting the extraocular component housing <NUM>) perpendicular or oblique (i.e., at an acute angle or obtuse angle) to the first planar orientation. For example, the projector <NUM> can be implanted near the anterior portion <NUM> of the eye and the one or more lenses <NUM> of the projector <NUM> can face the central retina <NUM>. Also in this example, the extraocular component <NUM> can be implanted subcutaneously near a temple region of the subject along the side of the head of the subject.

As shown in <FIG>, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be separated from the extraocular component <NUM> by a separation distance <NUM> determined by the length of the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>. In the example embodiment shown in <FIG>, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be separated from the extraocular component <NUM> by a separation distance <NUM> of about <NUM>. In other embodiments, the separation distance <NUM> can range from about <NUM> to <NUM>. The length of the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> (and the size of the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>) can change based on the separation distance <NUM>. As will be discussed in the following sections, in some embodiments, the extraocular component <NUM> can be secured to an exterior surface of the eye of the subject, which would result in a shorter trans-scleral communication wire <NUM>.

<FIG> also shows that the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> can comprise a first wire segment <NUM> connected to a second wire segment <NUM> by a wire connector <NUM>. The wire connector <NUM> can comprise an insulating housing and both a male and female component. The wire connector <NUM> can allow the first wire segment <NUM> to be disconnected or detached from the second wire segment <NUM>. The wire connector <NUM> can be a plug type connector, a multiple-pin type connector, a jack-type connector, a clamp-type connector, or a combination thereof.

As shown in <FIG>, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can be a low-profile substantially planar coil. The low profile or flatness of the coil can ensure the coil does not unnecessarily add to the depth or thickness of the extraocular component housing <NUM>. Since some sites for implanting the extraocular component <NUM> involve regions along the side of the head of the subject, any added thickness or depth can make such a component appear unsightly or protruding when implanted subcutaneously.

The wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive data, power, or a combination thereof from a compatible transmitter coil (such as, for example, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> of <FIG>). In some embodiments, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive data over a near-field communication (NFC) protocol. In these and other embodiments, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive power based on near-filed electromagnetic coupling with a compatible transmitter coil (such as, for example, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can be a Qi™-compliant wireless receiver coil.

In certain embodiments, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive data from the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> at a data transfer rate ranging from about <NUM> Megabits per second (Mbps) to about <NUM> Mbps. For example, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive data at a data transfer rate of about <NUM> Mbps. In some embodiments, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive data from the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> via an amplitude-shift keying (ASK) modulation such as on-off keying (OOK).

In some embodiments, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive power at a rate ranging from about <NUM> milliwatt (mW) to about <NUM> W. For example, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> can receive power at a rate of about <NUM> mW. More specifically, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> (see, for example, <FIG>) can supply the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> with a voltage ranging from about <NUM> V to about <NUM> V (e.g., <NUM> V) and a current ranging from about <NUM> Amperes (A) to about <NUM> A (e.g., <NUM> A).

Although <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> show one instance of the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM>, it is contemplated by this disclosure that multiple coils can be used and certain coils can be dedicated to data transfer while other coils can be dedicated to power transfer. Therefore, any reference to "a" and "the" wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> in this disclosure can also refer to wireless power and data receiver coils <NUM>.

The extraocular component housing <NUM> can be made in part of a biocompatible polymeric material. In some embodiments, the extraocular component housing <NUM> can be made in part of at least one of a medical grade poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), medical grade silicone, and medical grade polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In other embodiments, the extraocular component housing <NUM> can be made in part of a ceramic material. In some embodiments, the extraocular component housing <NUM> can have a length dimension ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. For example, the extraocular component housing <NUM> can have a length dimension of about <NUM>. The extraocular component housing <NUM> can also have a width dimension ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. For example, the extraocular component housing <NUM> can have a width dimension of about <NUM>.

<FIG> are black-and-white images showing close-ups of one embodiment of the intraocular projection component <NUM> in an assembled state. As shown in <FIG>, the projector <NUM> of the intraocular projection component <NUM> can have a length dimension. In one embodiment, the length dimension can be about <NUM>. In other embodiments, the length dimension can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the projector <NUM> can also have a width dimension. In one embodiment, the width dimension can be about <NUM>. In other embodiments, the width dimension can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the projector <NUM> can have a depth dimension as measured from a back side of the back housing <NUM> of the projector housing <NUM> to a terminal or distal end of the projector shroud <NUM>. In one embodiment, the depth dimension can be about <NUM>. In other embodiments, the depth dimension can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of one embodiment of an intraocular projection component <NUM> having a single lens <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the single lens <NUM> can be a plano-convex lens having a substantially planar side <NUM> and convex side <NUM>. The convex side <NUM> of the plano-convex lens can be positioned anterior to the substantially planar side <NUM> when the intraocular projection component <NUM> is implanted within the eye of the subject. For example, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be secured by scleral haptics in the anterior portion <NUM> of the eye and the front housing <NUM> of the projector <NUM> can be pointed or directed at the posterior portion <NUM> of the eye (e.g., the central retina <NUM>).

In some embodiments, the convex side <NUM> can have a radius ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. For example, the convex side <NUM> can have a radius of about <NUM>.

The single lens <NUM> can be housed within the projector shroud <NUM>. In some embodiments, the single lens <NUM> can be housed near a distal end of the projector shroud <NUM>. In other embodiments, the single lens <NUM> can be housed near a proximal end of the projector shroud <NUM> or in between the proximal end and the distal end of the projector shroud <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the single lens <NUM> can be a biconvex lens having two convex sides. In these embodiments, the two convex sides can each have a radius ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of one embodiment of an intraocular projection component <NUM> having multiple lenses <NUM> in series. For example, the multiple lenses <NUM> in series can be multiple instances of the single lens <NUM> previously disclosed herein aligned or arranged in series. As shown in <FIG>, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can comprise a first lens <NUM> and a second lens <NUM>. The first lens <NUM>, the second lens <NUM>, or a combination thereof can each be a plano-convex lens (similar to the single plano-convex lens previously disclosed). In other embodiments, the first lends <NUM>, the second lens <NUM>, or a combination thereof can each be a biconvex lens.

The first lens <NUM> can be positioned distal to the second lens <NUM> such that when the intraocular projection component <NUM> is implanted within the eye of the subject, the second lens <NUM> is positioned anterior to the first lens <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the lenses <NUM> used as part of the intraocular projection component <NUM> (including the single lens <NUM> and each of the multiple lenses <NUM>) can be a dense flint optical glass lens comprising rare earth elements such as lanthanum(III) oxide (La<NUM>O<NUM>). For example, each of the lenses <NUM> can be made in part of lanthanum-doped silicon dioxide or lanthanum-doped borosilicate glass. In other embodiments, each of the lenses <NUM> can also comprise lead(II) oxide (PbO), barium oxide (BaO), boron oxide (B<NUM>O<NUM>), phosphorus pentoxide (P<NUM>O<NUM>), germanium oxide (GeO<NUM>), or any combination thereof.

In other embodiments, the lens <NUM> or lenses <NUM> used as part of the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be a clear polymer-based or plastic lens such as an acrylic lens or a silicone lens.

In some embodiments, the single lens <NUM> or each of the multiple lenses <NUM> can have an effective focal length (EFL) ranging from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. For example, the single lens <NUM> or each of the multiple lenses <NUM> can have an EFL of about <NUM>.

The single lens <NUM> or each of the multiple lenses <NUM> can also have a lens diameter and a lens depth dimension. The lens diameter can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM> and the lens depth dimension can range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. For example, the lens diameter can be about <NUM> and the lens depth dimension can be about <NUM>. The single lens <NUM> or each of the multiple lenses <NUM> can also have fine grind surface. The single lens <NUM> or each of the multiple lenses <NUM> can be manufactured or distributed by Edmund Scientific Corporation, Schott AG, or other manufacturers or distributers of advanced optical equipment.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of one embodiment of an intraocular projection component <NUM> having an adjustable lens <NUM>. In this embodiment, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can comprise an adjustable lens housing <NUM>. The adjustable lens housing <NUM> can be configured to allow the one or more lenses <NUM> secured within the adjustable lens housing <NUM> to translate in an anterior direction, a posterior direction, or a combination thereof relative to the projector <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in one embodiment, the projector shroud <NUM> and the adjustable lens housing <NUM> can comprise a thread connection <NUM>. The thread connection <NUM> can allow the adjustable lens housing <NUM> to be twisted, screwed, or dialed closer or further away from the projector <NUM>. <FIG> also illustrates that the one or more lenses <NUM> secured within the adjustable lens housing <NUM> can be the plano-convex lenses previously disclosed herein.

In other embodiments, the adjustable lens housing <NUM> can be translated in an anterior direction, a posterior direction, or a combination thereof using a magnetic mechanism, an electrical mechanism, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> illustrate different ways that the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be implanted within an eye of a subject. <FIG> illustrates that the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be secured using two or more securing haptics <NUM> (e.g., scleral haptics) to the anterior portion <NUM> of the eye. The securing haptics <NUM> can be coupled to the projector housing <NUM> of the intraocular projection component <NUM>. In one embodiment, the subject's own lens capsule <NUM> (see <FIG>) can be removed and the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be secured in a location or position formerly occupied by the lens capsule <NUM> within the eye of the subject.

<FIG> illustrates that the intraocular projection component <NUM> can also be implanted within the lens capsule <NUM> of the eye of the subject. In this embodiment, an incision or opening can be made along a surface of the lens capsule <NUM> and the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be positioned within the lens capsule <NUM> and secured using haptics, sutures, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> illustrates that the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be secured within the eye using sutures <NUM>. For example, the sutures <NUM> can be coupled to suture openings defined on two or more securing haptics <NUM> coupled to the projector housing <NUM> of the intraocular projection component <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sutures <NUM> can be bioabsorbable sutures, non-bioabsorbable sutures, or a combination thereof. For example, the sutures <NUM> can be made in part of filaments of polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, poliglycaprone (or a copolymer of glycolide and ε-caprolactone), polydioxanone, nylon, polypropylene, polyester, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), or a combination thereof.

<FIG> illustrates that the intraocular projection component <NUM> can also be implanted within the cornea <NUM> of the subject. In this embodiment, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be secured within the cornea <NUM> using one or more securing haptics <NUM>, sutures <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> are black-and-white images showing the implantation of one embodiment of the intraocular projection component <NUM> within an eye of the subject. The cornea <NUM> of the subject can be removed and one or more incisions can be made along the sclera <NUM> of the eye to allow the trans-scleral communication wire <NUM> to pass through. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the intraocular projection component <NUM> can comprise a pair of scleral haptics coupled to the projector housing <NUM>. Once the cornea <NUM> is removed (see <FIG>) the intraocular projection component <NUM> can be secured to the anterior portion <NUM> of the eye using the scleral haptics. The terminal ends of the scleral haptics can also be cauterized or heat treated to facilitate the securement of the scleral haptics and prevent the scleral haptics from inadvertently retracting out of the sclera. Once the intraocular projection component <NUM> is secured within the eye, the cornea <NUM> of the subject can be sewn back onto the eye using sutures (as shown in <FIG>). In other embodiments, a replacement cornea (e.g., a donated cornea) or an artificial cornea can be sewn onto the eye of the subject rather than the subject's own cornea.

<FIG> illustrates various implantation sites for the extraocular component <NUM>. In one embodiment, the extraocular component <NUM> can be implanted subcutaneously in a retroauricular region <NUM> (e.g., in a region behind the ear) of the subject. In another embodiment also shown in <FIG>, the extraocular component <NUM> can be implanted subcutaneously in proximity to a temple region <NUM> (an area overlying the temporal bone and part of the sphenoid bone) of the subject. In these embodiments, the extraocular component <NUM> can be implanted subcutaneously at a depth between about <NUM> to about <NUM> below the skin surface. The extraocular component <NUM> can be sutured upon implantation to secure the extraocular component <NUM> or scar tissue can be allowed to form around the extraocular component <NUM> to secure the extraocular component <NUM> in place under the skin.

In additional embodiments shown in <FIG>, the extraocular component <NUM> can be implanted within an orbit <NUM> of the subject or along an orbital rim of the subject. In yet another embodiment, the extraocular component <NUM> can be secured on an exterior surface of the eye. For example, the extraocular component <NUM> can be coupled to a band or loop strapped to the exterior surface of the eye. The extraocular component <NUM> can also be sutured to the eye.

<FIG> illustrates one embodiment of an extracorporeal device <NUM> comprising a wearable support structure <NUM>, a digital camera <NUM>, a processor housing <NUM>, and a wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM>. The wearable support structure <NUM> can be configured to be worn in proximity to the eyes of the subject. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the wearable support structure <NUM> can be an eyeglass frame comprising two eyeglass rims connected by a bridge, a pair of nose pads coupled to the eyeglass rims, frame arms or temples coupled to the eyeglass rims by hinges and fasteners, and an earpiece or end tip coupled to each of the frame arms or temples.

The digital camera <NUM> can be coupled to the wearable support structure <NUM>. For example, the digital camera <NUM> can be coupled to the frame arms or temples of an eyeglass frame serving as the wearable support structure <NUM>. In other embodiments, the digital camera <NUM> can be coupled to part of the eyeglass rims or the bridge. The digital camera <NUM> can be configured to capture the one or more digital images <NUM> projected by the projector <NUM> of the intraocular projection component <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the digital camera <NUM> can be a Full HD (FHD) camera configured to capture 1080p video (e.g., 1080p24, 1080p25, 1080p25, 1080p30, or 1080p60 video and a <NUM>:<NUM> aspect ratio). In this embodiment, the digital camera <NUM> can capture video with a resolution of about <NUM> x <NUM> pixels and static images at <NUM> x <NUM> pixels. In other embodiments, the digital camera <NUM> can be a standard HD camera configured to capture 720p video at a resolution of about <NUM> x <NUM> pixels. In additional embodiments contemplated by this disclosure, the digital camera <NUM> can be a Quad HD (QHD) camera configured to capture 1440p video (2560x <NUM> pixels). In further embodiments contemplated by this disclosure, the digital camera <NUM> can be a <NUM> Ultra HD (UHD) camera configured to capture 2160p video (or a resolution of about <NUM> x <NUM> pixels). In additional embodiments contemplated by this disclosure, the digital camera <NUM> can be an <NUM> UHD camera configured to capture 4230p video (or a resolution of about <NUM> x <NUM> pixels).

In alternative embodiments, the digital camera <NUM> can be a camera configured to capture images outside the visible spectrum. For example, in one embodiment, the digital camera <NUM> can be an infrared, near infrared, or thermal imaging camera. In another embodiment, the digital camera <NUM> can be configured to capture images using light in the ultraviolet (UV) or near-UV spectrum.

The processor housing <NUM> can also be coupled to the wearable support structure <NUM> (e.g., on the arm or temple of an eyeglass frame). The processor housing <NUM> can comprise a camera processor <NUM> having a camera memory and a wireless communication processor <NUM> having a communication memory or memory unit. The camera processor <NUM> can be electrically coupled to the digital camera <NUM>.

The camera processor <NUM> can be programmed to execute instruction stored in the camera memory to instruct the digital camera <NUM> to capture the one or more digital images <NUM>. The wireless communication processor <NUM> can be programmed to execute instructions stored in the communication memory or memory unit to wirelessly transmit the one or more digital images <NUM> to the extraocular component <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the camera processor <NUM> can be a digital signal processor (DSP) comprising one or more processor cores. In some embodiments, the camera processor <NUM> can be a <NUM> dual core processor or a <NUM> quad core processor. Although the camera processor <NUM> and the wireless communication processor <NUM> are shown as separate processors, it is contemplated by this disclosure that the camera processor <NUM> and the wireless communication processor <NUM> can be the same processor in certain embodiments.

In additional embodiments, the wireless communication processor <NUM> can be coupled to the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> and can transmit data using the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> over a near-field communication (NFC) protocol. In these embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can serve as a communication antenna as well as a wireless power transmitter.

<FIG> illustrates that the processor housing <NUM> can also comprise a portable power supply <NUM>. In other embodiments, the portable power supply <NUM> can be housed in a different housing or device casing separate from the processor housing <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the portable power supply <NUM> can be a rechargeable battery. The portable power supply <NUM> can be configured to supply power to the digital camera <NUM>, the camera processor <NUM>, the wireless communication processor <NUM>, or a combination thereof. The portable power supply <NUM> can also be configured to supply power to the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM>.

The wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can be housed within a coil housing <NUM> coupled to the wearable support structure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the coil housing <NUM> can be a polymeric container or casing configured to hold the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the coil housing <NUM> can be positioned on an inner side or surface of the wearable support structure <NUM> (such as an inner side or surface of the frame arm). Positioning the coil housing <NUM> on the inner side or surface of the wearable support structure <NUM> can allow the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> to be positioned more closely or in close proximity to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> of the extraocular component <NUM> implanted within the subject. The wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can be configured to transmit power wirelessly to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> to power the electronic components of the extraocular component <NUM>, the intraocular projection component <NUM>, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit power to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> to recharge the rechargeable battery <NUM> within the extraocular component <NUM>. In these embodiments, the electronic components of the extraocular component <NUM> and the intraocular projection component <NUM> can draw power from the rechargeable battery <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can be a low-profile substantially planar coil. The low profile or flatness of the coil can ensure the coil does not unnecessarily add to the depth or thickness of the wearable support structure <NUM>.

The wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit data, power, or a combination thereof to a compatible receiver coil (such as, for example, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> of <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). In some embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit data over a near-field communication (NFC) protocol. In these and other embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit power based on near-filed electromagnetic coupling with a compatible receiver coil (such as, for example, the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> of <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). For example, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can be a Qi™-compliant wireless receiver coil.

In certain embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit data to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> at a data transfer rate ranging from about <NUM> Megabits per second (Mbps) to about <NUM> Mbps. For example, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit data at a data transfer rate of about <NUM> Mbps. In some embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit data to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> via an amplitude-shift keying (ASK) modulation such as on-off keying (OOK).

In some embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit power at a rate ranging from about <NUM> milliwatt (mW) to about <NUM> W. For example, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can transmit power at a rate of about <NUM> mW. More specifically, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can supply the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> with a voltage ranging from about <NUM> V to about <NUM> V (e.g., <NUM> V) and a current ranging from about <NUM> Amperes (A) to about <NUM> A (e.g., <NUM> A).

Although <FIG> show one instance of the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM>, it is contemplated by this disclosure that multiple coils can be used and certain coils can be dedicated to data transfer while other coils can be dedicated to power transfer. Therefore, any reference to "a" and "the" wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> in this disclosure can also refer to wireless power and data transmitter coils <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates another embodiment of the extracorporeal device <NUM> comprising a wearable support structure <NUM> in the form of a headband <NUM>. In some embodiments, the wearable support structure <NUM> can be a flexible headband. In other embodiments, the wearable support structure <NUM> can be a rigid headband. In one or more embodiments, the flexible headband can be a fabric headband comprising an elastomer (e.g., Spandex, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or a combination thereof). More specifically, the flexible headband can be made in part of organic materials (e.g., cotton, silk, wool, or a combination thereof), synthetic materials or fabrics (e.g., nylon, polyester, or a combination thereof), or a combination thereof.

In these embodiments, the digital camera <NUM>, the processor housing <NUM> (including the camera processor <NUM> and the wireless communication processor <NUM>), the portable power supply <NUM>, the coil housing <NUM>, and the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> coupled to the headband <NUM> can be the same or substantially the same as the digital camera <NUM>, the processor housing <NUM> (including the camera processor <NUM> and the wireless communication processor <NUM>), the portable power supply <NUM>, the coil housing <NUM>, and the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> coupled to the eyeglass frame shown in <FIG>.

As depicted in <FIG>, the coil housing <NUM> comprising the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> can also be coupled or otherwise affixed to an inner side or surface of the headband <NUM>. Positioning the coil housing <NUM> on the inner side or surface of the headband <NUM> can allow the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> to be positioned more closely or in close proximity to the wireless power and data receiver coil <NUM> of the extraocular component <NUM> implanted within the subject.

<FIG> illustrates additional embodiments of the extracorporeal device <NUM> as portable electronic devices. In one embodiment, the extracorporeal device <NUM> can be a smartphone <NUM> having a built-in digital camera <NUM>. In another embodiment, the extracorporeal device <NUM> can be tablet computer <NUM> having a built-in digital camera <NUM>. In a further embodiment, the extracorporeal device <NUM> can be a laptop <NUM> having a built-in digital camera <NUM>. In these embodiments, the digital cameras <NUM> of the portable electronic devices can capture the one or more digital images <NUM> and save the one or more digital images <NUM> to a memory of the portable electronic device. The portable electronic device can then wireless transmit the one or more digital images <NUM> to the extraocular component <NUM> implanted within the subject over a short-range communication protocol (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth™, WiGig™, WirelessHD™, or a combination thereof). The extraocular component <NUM> can then transmit the one or more digital images <NUM> to the intraocular projection component <NUM> to be projected onto the central retina <NUM> of the subject. In these embodiments, the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM>, the portable power supply <NUM>, or a combination thereof can be housed within a separate portable device or housing. The subject or an operator/user can bring the separate portable device comprising the wireless power and data transmitter coil <NUM> in proximity to the extraocular component <NUM> implanted within the subject to deliver power wirelessly to the extraocular component <NUM>, the intraocular projection component <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

Each of the individual variations or embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other variations or embodiments.

Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events that is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Moreover, additional steps or operations may be provided or steps or operations may be eliminated to achieve the desired result.

Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, every intervening value between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

Claim 1:
A vision restoration device, comprising:
an intraocular projection component (<NUM>) configured to be implanted within an eye of the subject and comprising:
a projector (<NUM>) configured to project one or more digital images (<NUM>) onto a central retina (<NUM>) of the subject wherein the projector (<NUM>) comprises an electronic display (<NUM>) and a light emitting component (<NUM>) within the projector (<NUM>) configured to generate and direct light at the electronic display (<NUM>), and
one or more lenses (<NUM>) coupled to or housed within the projector (<NUM>) and configured to focus the one or more digital images (<NUM>); and
an implantable extraocular component (<NUM>) configured to be implanted within the subject, the extraocular component (<NUM>) comprising:
one or more processors (<NUM>) programmed to execute instructions stored in a memory to wirelessly receive the one or more digital images (<NUM>) from an extracorporeal device; and
a trans-scleral communication wire (<NUM>) connecting the intraocular projection component (<NUM>) to the extraocular component (<NUM>), wherein the trans-scleral communication wire (<NUM>) is configured to transmit digital data between the extraocular component (<NUM>) and the intraocular projection component (<NUM>).