The system uses a headset containing a video camera and two LCD viewing screens.

Information from what is in front of the patient is sent to a hand-held control (processing unit) where the image pixels are enhanced for the patient’s needs: clarity, color, contrast and brightness.  The image can be focused for short, intermediate and long-range objects.

The signal is then transmitted to the displays in front of the eyes.  The image can be “zoomed in” for required magnification (up to 14X).

Prescription lenses are incorporated into the eyewear.  The head set fits over the eyeglass frame.  A wire connects the HD camera, the control unit and screens.  The control unit contains the batteries.

As part to the rehabilitation process, the system is programmed according to patient’s eye condition and vision goals.  The device is designed help those with macular degeneration, Stargardt’s disease, albinism, diabetic retinopathy.

The contrast control makes objects lighter or darker to make it easier for patients to see.  The magnification feature is designed to see far-away objects like a face or clock.  Magnification will help reading.

During rehabilitation patients can choose the video processing algorithms that work best for them, including zoom in/out, contrast and color optimization, edge enhancement and brightness control

The eyewear is most effective for patients with acuity between 20/60 and 20/400.

The headset costs $15,000.  There company is based in Canada.

Our office is currently investigating this unit for patient use.   Please call use for the latest information.