PolyPhotonix develops LED “sleep mask” to tackle causes of sight-loss from diabetes
Innovate UK, the people who funded the development of Noctura 400, have published a new video about the revolutionary treatment for degenerative sight-threatening conditions caused by age and diabetes.
British artist turned entrepreneur develops new technology to treat one of the main causes of blindness, with support from Innovate UK.
Twelve years ago, British artist Richard Kirk became fascinated by a small piece of electroluminescent material. It was made of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).
OLEDs emit light when an electric current is passed through organic molecules or polymers. They have a conductive layer as thin as human hair, which makes them flexible and adaptable.
Despite having no scientific background, Richard instantly recognised the potential of the technology. He founded the company PolyPhotonix, based in the north-east of England, in partnership with the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI), and with support from the Innovate UK High Value Manufacturing Catapult.
Since 2009, Innovate UK has provided PolyPhotonix, CPI and its research partners with £12 million of grant funding to develop OLED technology. The company has also been awarded over £1.4 million through a competition run by SBRI on behalf of NHS England to find more effective methods of improving the health of people with long-term conditions.
PolyPhotonix is now on the verge of revolutionising treatment for degenerative sight-threatening conditions caused by age and diabetes.