Field focusing and mapping in an electrode array
US7565202B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 21, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 29, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/36046
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is a system for mapping a high resolution image to a lower resolution electrode array and, by applying varying stimulus to neighboring electrodes, creating a perceived image greater in resolution than the electrode array. The invention is applicable to a wide range of neural stimulation devices including artificial vision and artificial hearing. By applying a sub-threshold stimulus to two neighboring electrodes where the sum of the stimuli is above the threshold of perception, a perception is created in neural tissue between the two electrodes. By adjusting the stimulus on neighboring electrodes, the location of stimulation can be altered. Further, noise can be applied to the stimulating electrode or its neighboring electrodes to reduce the threshold of stimulation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.