Spatial mapping for a visual prosthesis

摘要

A visual prosthesis and a method of operating a visual prosthesis are disclosed. Neural stimulation through electrodes is controlled by spatial maps, where a grouped or random association is established between the data points of the acquired data and the electrodes. In this way distortions from the foveal pit and wiring mistakes in the implant can be corrected. Moreover, broken electrodes can be bypassed and a resolution limit can be tested, together with testing the benefit the patient receives from correct spatial mapping.

主权项

1. A neural stimulator comprising:
an implanted portion having a wireless receiver and an array of electrodes suitable for stimulating retinal neurons; and an external portion having a data processing unit and including a map for association of input data to electrodes, wherein the map establishes a relationship between a set of geographically related input values and a set of geographically related electrodes in the array of electrodes, the relationship providing an arbitrary association between an average of the set of geographically related input values and the set of geographically related electrodes to correct for distortions of the fovea pit.