Date: Jun 21, 2013 Source: NIH Success Stories (
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Technology Developed:
Aeon Imaging has developed cost-effective confocal imaging technology that is being commercialized for diabetic retinopathy screening and microscopy. The technology has obtained patent protection in the US (#8,237,835), Australia and Canada, and is pending in Europe.
Uses of Technology/Products/Service:
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults in the US, estimated by the CDC to affect 5.5 million Americans in 2005, and projected to grow to 16.0 million by 2050. This major health concern, which disproportionately affects minority and underserved populations, requires early and cost-effective detection and treatment. Aeon Imaging's new technology reduces the cost of confocal imaging devices by substituting a digital light projector for the more traditionally used laser source and scanning element(s). The projector's illumination patterns are synchronized to the rolling shutter of a consumer-grade CMOS detector, which acts as a flexible electronic aperture. The result is a simple, easy-to-use device that provides high contrast images. One notable advantage of Aeon's unique approach to confocal imaging is its software control of the aperture width and position with pixel-level accuracy. By changing the aperture in real-time, users can toggle between bright and dark-field imaging modes and enhance their depth-sectioning resolution by subtracting consecutive pairs of images. Thus far, Aeon Imaging has applied this technology to its Digital Light Ophthalmoscope, which is a portable retinal camera under development for diabetic retinopathy screening, and its Digital Light Microscope kit, which provides users with the tools to assemble custom and modular confocal microscopes.
Benefit to Company:
The SBIR program has been crucial for Aeon's early growth and sustainability. SBIR funding has provided for research and development laboratory space and equipment, salary support, job creation, and enhanced our team's expertise in all areas of product development. With SBIR support, we've obtained patent protection for our new and existing intellectual property, which has been licensed and is generating royalty income. Finally, the profit/fee obtained from the SBIR program has enabled Aeon to commercialize its Digital Light Microscope kit to broaden the scope in which its new imaging technology can be used.
Other Comments Related to Company's Success Story:
Aeon Imaging was named the 2010 Innovative Business of the Year by the South Central Small Business Development Center and inVenture.
