Focus Module Used in eSight

Officials from New Scale Technologies Inc. of Victor, N.Y. announced that its miniature M3-F focus module is a key component in the innovative new eSight eyewear, a new class of wearable, electronic assistive technology launched in 2012 by eSight Corp. of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 

The eSight eyewear incorporates a high-resolution video camera and a high-contrast display for each eye, and is customized to enhance the remaining vision of individuals with conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and more. New Scale’s M3-F focus module enables precision focus of the camera lens, driven by eSight’s focus algorithms. 

“We chose the M3-F focus module for its small size, high precision and low power requirements,” states Rob Hilkes, VP product management at eSight Corp. “As a complete motion module it was easy to integrate into our system, and helped us meet our targets for high performance, low weight, and long battery life.”

The M3-F module comprises New Scale’s piezoelectric SQUIGGLE motor, Hall effect position sensor, drive IC, and microprocessor with firmware integrated into a single 20mm x 22mm x 16mm package, not significantly larger than a fixed lens holder. It operates on 3.3V battery power and accepts high-level motion commands from the system processor using a standard I2C interface. 

“It is very rewarding to work with an innovative company like eSight, who are pushing the edge of wearable assistive technology with this mobile, hands-free device,” says David Henderson, co-CEO of New Scale Technologies. “We are pleased that our miniature motion technology is being applied to create smaller products that improve quality of life for individuals with low vision.”