Sometimes inventors come up with an idea so unusual, they’re convinced nobody else would follow through with it—only to later learn that somebody did. In this video, Gary Shuster recounts an idea he once had for a high-tech glass eye equipped with a camera, Bluetooth, and inductive charging. He chose not to patent it, assuming there was no real market. Yet another innovator later built and sold a version of this device. Below, we explore the story and why it’s okay to let some inventions go.
1. How the Idea Took Shape
- Casual Brainstorming
The concept arose during a hotel meeting in Los Angeles, of all places. A random discussion about glass eyes sparked the question: “What if a glass eye could do more than just look natural?” - High-Tech Spin
I imagined a built-in camera that could stream or record video via a Bluetooth connection and recharge through inductive charging—no wires needed.
2. Why I Walked Away
- Market Viability
On the surface, this might seem like a fascinating gadget. But I doubted there’d be enough demand for a camera-equipped prosthetic eye. - Health Concerns
Although it’s non-ionizing radiation, some people might be uncomfortable wearing an electronic device so close to their brain. The potential risks or fears could limit consumer appeal.
3. Someone Else Built It
- Surprise Validation
To me surprise, a similar device later emerged on the market. This underscores a key lesson: if you think it, someone else might too. - No Regrets
Instead of lamenting a missed opportunity, view it as a testament to your creativity. Even if you walk away, someone else might see a path forward. It validates your creative instincts. Creativity and understanding whether there is market demand are very different things. While my creativity was spot-on, my evaluation of market demand was — well, I kind of still think it was accurate. After seeing the device for a while, it seems to have disappeared from the market.
4. Lessons for Inventors
- Not Every Idea Becomes a Patent: Practicality, market need, budget and personal priorities often guide which concepts go forward.
- Validation Can Come Unexpectedly: If someone else independently brings your idea to life, it reaffirms your inventive talent.
- Focus on What Matters: Invest your time and resources in projects that truly resonate with you, especially when costs of filing and maintaining patents can be high.
Want More Details?
Check out the accompanying Innovation Cafe video to hear my full account of this offbeat invention and why it’s okay to celebrate someone else executing a concept you once shelved.