The Development of the Ocutech VES‐Autofocus Telescope and a Future Binocular Version

Conventional optical low‐vision devices are hampered by the physical constraints of magnification—shallow depth of field and narrow field of view, and for telescopes, the need to change focus for different distances. These characteristics make low‐vision telescopic aids difficult to use, especially at important midrange distances. The Ocutech VES Autofocus bioptic telescope (VES‐AF) funded with National Institutes of Health–Small Business Innovation Research and Ontario (Canada) Ministry of Health grants, eliminates the need to manipulate the device to maintain focus. Clinical experience with the VES‐AF has shown that autofocus (AF) enhances the acceptance and utilization of telescopic devices. Difficulty ignoring the fellow eye while sighting through the device has been a complaint of users that has undermined device acceptance. Although occlusion is an option to alleviate the diplopia experienced, the development of a binocular version may further enhance the acceptance, adaptation to, and utilization of telescopic devices and may offer wider fields of view as well.