About the project
OuterRetina
The OuterRetina project merges two key themes we've explored for over 20 years: implantable devices that interface directly with neurons to restore function, and non-invasive wearable devices that connect with the nervous system. While existing non-invasive electronics provide good performance, they fall short in resolution and sensitivity. Our goal with the OuterRetina project is to develop non-invasive tools capable of generating visual perception.
Mission
Our mission is to develop innovative, non-invasive technologies that enable visual perception by interfacing seamlessly with the nervous system. Building on our extensive experience with implantable and wearable neural devices, we strive to overcome current limitations in resolution and sensitivity to create safe, effective, and accessible solutions for individuals with visual impairments. Through cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration, we aim to set new standards in neurotechnology and contribute to a future where vision restoration is possible without the need for invasive procedures.
Vision
The OuterRetina project embodies our long-standing commitment to pioneering technologies that bridge the gap between the nervous system and non-invasive devices. Our vision is to create groundbreaking, non-invasive tools that deliver visual perception with unprecedented resolution and sensitivity. The OuterRetina project aims to transform how we restore vision, offering a safe, effective, and accessible alternative to invasive technologies, ultimately enhancing quality of life for individuals with visual impairments.
Main Results
Dry electrodes for stimulations: Owing to their high impedance values, dry printed electrodes have received almost no attention in the realm of stimulation. In particular, their ability to reach stimulation thresholds without causing discomfort has not been determined. In this project, we methodically investigated the potential of dry-printed electrodes for transcutaneous stimulation. Our initial focus is on examining the electrode impedance values, aiming to establish a comprehensive skin-electrode interaction model. Following this, we assessed the stimulation threshold in nerve stimulation. Through this investigation, we demonstrate that dry electrodes, despite their relatively high impedance, can be effectively used in stimulation applications involving the neck region, opening new opportunities in non-invasive and wearable modulation.
AI tool for sEMG analysis: These approaches are developed to derive objective measures directly from the faces of subjects.
Optimizing transorbital stimulation paradigms, remains a huge challenge, particularly regarding electrode type and waveform characteristics. In this study, we investigated whether the type of electrode (i.e. wet versus dry) affects the psychometric curve for phosphene detection. Our findings indicate that both electrode types yield comparable detection thresholds, suggesting that dry electrodes could offer a viable, practical alternative for TES without compromising efficacy, while dramatically enhancing usability.
Publications
Ieva VÄ—braitÄ—, Chen Bar-Haim, Moshe David-Pur, Yael Hanein, Bi-directional electrical recording and stimulation of the intact retina with a screen-printed soft probe: a feasibility study Front. Neurosci.,
Sec. Neural Technology, Volume 17 - 2023, https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2023.1288069
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Conferences
3/2023. BIOEL International Winterschool on Bioelectronics. Tirol, Austria, Poster. I. Vebraite, C. Bar-Haim, M. David-Pur, Y. Hanein. Bi-directional electrical recording and stimulation of the intact retina.
10/2023. The eye and the chip. 13th World Research Congress on Artificial Vision. Michigan, USA, Poster. I. Vebraite, S. Aviv and H. Yael. Spontaneous and stimulated neural activity in the intact retina: Similarities and disparities to ex vivo condition.
12/2024. Artificial Vision 2024. Germany, presentation. Towards Wearable Non-invasive Approach to Retina Stimulation: Phosphene Induction and Temporal Interference Studies. Daniele Re, Rawan Ibrahim, Shani Oz, Aviv Sharon, Ieva Vebraite Adereth, Yael Hanein
12/2024. Artificial vision 2024. Germany, presentation. Bi-directional recording and stimulation of the retina inside the eye with soft electrodes. Shani Oz, Ieva Vebraite, Chen Bar-Haim, Yael Hanein.
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