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.