A TONGUE FOR AN EYE

Vision device helps the blind to see by converting visual information to electrical pulses that stimulate the tongue

Scientists have created an electronic vision device that helps blind people to “see” using their tongues. The device, called BrainPort could dramatically enhance the quality of life for people affected by blindness.

The extraordinary technology works on a principle known as sensory substitution.

Brainport, which resembles a pair of sunglasses attached to a plastic lollipop, takes pictures filmed on a tiny camera, and turns the information into electrical pulses, which can be felt on the tongue.

“We see with our brains, not with our eyes.” declared the late Paul Bach-y-Rita, a US-based UW-Madison neuroscientist and inventor of BrainPort.

He proposed that visual perception in the brain could be restored using an alternate sensor and input source, such as a digital camera providing visual signals through the tongue.

Tests have shown that the nerves send messages to the brain, which turn these tingles back into pictures. Users describe it as pictures drawn on their tongue with champagne bubbles. With fewer than 20 hours training, users can perceive shape, size, location and motion of objects in their environment. Its users have revealed that they can make out household objects, and even read signs.

“One guy started to cry when he saw his first letter,” News.com.au quoted William Seiple, research director at Lighthouse International as saying.

The scientists behind Brainport say that learning to picture images felt on the tongue is similar to learning to ride a bike. The control unit allows users to zoom in and out and control light settings and electric shock intensity.

The device could be available for sale later this year following FDA approval.

“It enables blind people perceive their surroundings. They cannot necessarily read a book but they can read a sign.” said Robert Beckman, president of Wicab, developer of the BrainPort device.

Erik Weihenmayer, who used a prototype of BrainPort to climb 21,500 feet on Mount Everest recognises the revolutionary implications of the system. “It gives children and adults a better chance of being in the thick of things instead of listening to life go by.” he said. AGENCIES

1) Brainport captures video and converts it into electrical pulses on the lollipop 2) The control unit converts the image into a format compatible with the 600x600 electrode array 3) Erik Weihenmayer used BrainPort to climb to 21,500 feet on Mount Everest