Retinal Stimulation Devices for Non-Visual Pathway Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders fail to address the non-visual retinal pathways, which are connected to the brain and affect neurological and biochemical functions, and do not utilize the full potential of retinal stimulation for therapeutic intervention.
Innovation Solution
Modulating light entering the eye to activate or inhibit non-visual retinal pathways, using devices with lenses, prisms, and filters to direct specific frequencies and intensities of light to discrete areas of the retina, allowing for point-to-point brain mapping and modulation of brain activity for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional diagnostic and treatment methods are used, then conventional approaches are maintained, but non-visual retinal pathways and their brain connections are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments light into different wavelengths using filters, with each wavelength targeting specific retinal pathways (visual vs. non-visual). This segmentation allows selective activation of different retinal cell types (cones, rods, ipRGCs) to address specific neurological functions independently
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by directing specific wavelengths to discrete areas of the retina corresponding to specific brain regions. Different retinal zones are stimulated with different spectral compositions to target specific pathways (e.g., nasal vs. temporal retina for different cortical areas), enabling spatially-specific modulation of brain function
2Adaptability or versatility
If only visual pathways are stimulated, then image formation is achieved, but non-visual pathways for regulating circadian rhythms and pupillary responses are not activated
Solution Approach 1:
The device changes the spectral parameters of light by using filters that transmit specific wavelengths (e.g., blue light for ipRGC activation, green light for cone stimulation). By adjusting wavelength, intensity, and duration parameters, the system selectively activates different retinal pathways without requiring multiple separate light sources
Solution Approach 2:
A single device system performs multiple functions by using one light source combined with interchangeable filters. The same device can stimulate visual pathways for vision therapy, non-visual pathways for circadian rhythm regulation, and combine both for comprehensive retinal modulation, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices
3Measurement precision
If point-to-point brain mapping is implemented, then discrete retinal areas can be mapped to specific brain regions, but the complexity of mapping and targeting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pre-configured filter sets that are predetermined to target specific retinal zones and brain regions. The mapping relationships between retinal areas and brain regions are established in advance through the filter geometry and optical design, eliminating the need for real-time complex mapping calculations during treatment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables effective diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and disorders by altering brain function and biochemical responses, providing a novel approach to addressing retinal processing dysfunctions and promoting therapeutic interventions.
Implementation Method 1
modulation of light that enters the eye (and subsequently hits the retina) may be used to effect brain pathways
Implementation Method 2
using devices with lenses, prisms, and filters to direct specific frequencies and intensities of light to discrete areas of the retina
Implementation Method 3
using devices with lenses, prisms, and filters to direct specific frequencies and intensities of light to discrete areas of the retina
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides devices and methods for the modulation of retinal stimulation and/or retinal signal processing. Such methods may be useful for the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of a disease or disorder. The disclosed methods may comprise visual intervention by using lenses, prisms, mirrors, and/or filters (e.g., occluders) to alter the amount and/or direction of light on to the retina.