Melbourne researchers have developed a prototype for a bionic eye which they hope to implant in a person within three years.

The prototype consists of a mini camera, mounted on a pair of glasses, which captures visual input and transforms it into electrical signals that stimulate neurones in the retina.

The consortium behind the technology, Bionic Vision Australia, says the device will help patients suffering from degenerative vision loss to increase their mobility and independence.

Researchers have received a $42 million grant from the Federal Government to develop the prototype.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says the development is pioneering research.

“It’s medical developments like the bionic eye that have the potential to improve the health and quality of life of Australians around this country and, in fact, people around the world,” he said.

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Source: ABC

Technology hits top gear as 2010 heralds in a lighting fast turn over of new gadgets and gizmos for efficiency enthusiasts.

Competition and creative benchmarks set the pace for portable and practical products designed to solve and satisfy our modern appetite for convenience. Last weeks CES trade show for emerging technology revealed a dynamic range of innovative and revolutionary new designs which call for a swift shift in trends.

Hold on to your cyber caps we are set for a sneak peak at the sensational secrets of science and the applications are limitless even for luddites like me.

Heading the hot ticket items for 2010 are 3D home theatre systems which have everyone talking TV’s.

The global chairman of Sony, Sir Howard Stringer, declared this year’s show the “CES 3D show” – and with good reason. The success of Avatar provided a powerful platform for manufacturers to push 3D into the home. Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, LG and Panasonic unveiled a slew of 3D-capable televisions, Blu-ray players and home theatre systems. Some models even convert 2D content, such as home movies and games, into immersive 3D, with the only downside being that fashion unfriendly 3D glasses are still required.

Efficient platforms for e-book fans encouraging a return of the reader with new models that allow users to write notes on the screen. Amazon will release a new version of their popular reader the Kindle with a 9.7-inch electronic ink screen whilst Sony unveiled several new versions of their Reader and a Dash “personal internet viewer” that looks like a photo frame and can display an enormous range of online content.

It’s “Game On” for those dedicated to digital play as X-box goes Natal. Microsoft announced they would release an Xbox 360 add-on by Christmas that allows users to manipulate the console and play games with their natural body movements and speech.

Also worth watching for is the new GOGGLE smart phone “Nexus One” set to advance on APPLE’s mobile market in a battle over internet space. Apps being the primary appeal for APPLE advocates with more than 100000 now available GOGGLE has a long way to go in order to out gun the competition. Having said that the Nexus One has a leg up on logistics with a larger screen, longer battery life, more megapixels and boasts the additional advantage of not being tethered to AT&T. Instead consumers can shell out around $530 and get their mobile direct from GOGGLE. Checkout the comparison chart below!

Until recently, exploring sunken treasures and marine life meant that you would either have to strap on a tank or slip on your snorkel. But what if you prefer paddles to flippers and a view from above rather below the water?

Introducing the ‘Molokini’ an invisible boat by Clear Blue Hawaii.
This all-transparent two-passenger kayak is made out of the same durable polycarbonate material used in the production of bulletproof glass and fighter jet canopies. The interior is constructed with Aluminum for a durable yet sleek design.

Whilst the Molokini doesn’t come cheap (US $1,800) it certainly offers a different view for those who enjoy exploring as they exercise.

The company also make a single seater Kayak ranked the top outdoor product for 2003 by Fortune Magazine. The Napali (Hawaiian word for ‘cliffs’) cuts through the water like a blade allowing greater precision of movement and quicker response for those who like a wild ride.

The Napali is supported by a high-tech, durable and corrosion-resistant internal Carbon Kevlar frame system that comes equipped with a transparent military-grade Urethane skin, keeping the weight at a minimum.

The leading-edge innovation allows the kayak to fold up small enough to fit into a hiking backpack, yet still offer the endless possibilities for discovery that transparent kayaks give. This makes the Napali the ideal kayak for long-distance touring, backcountry kayaking and adventure travels that require easy transport.

The only draw back is the whack to your wallet at US $6,320.00 unless you are a wealthy water wader you might want to opt for the snorkel!