Video processing methods for improving visual acuity and/or perceived image resolution
US7925354B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 19, 2007 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 8, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/36046
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for improving visual acuity when providing a visual image from a “high” resolution input device to a “low” resolution output device. The described invention is of particular use when the output device is an array of electrodes as part of a retinal prosthesis used to restore vision to a visually-impaired patient. In that various limitations may, within the foreseeable future, limit the density of such an electrode array (and thus the resolution of the output image), the present invention teaches techniques to assign processed pixel subsets of a higher resolution image to a single electrode. By varying the pixel subsets, e.g., by jittering, and/or altering the processing criteria, the perceived visual acuity may be further improved. Alternatively and additionally, such processing may be further extended to drive neighboring electrodes in combination to thus stimulate virtual electrode sites and thus further enhance visual acuity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.