Bionic lenses can revolutionize the field of vision medicine , and there are already numerous patented technologies in this sector.
In short, we could say that bionic lenses are lenses to correct vision problems, but also use advanced technology to improve the capabilities of the user . And the website LentillasADomicilio has created an interesting infographic with the most recent advances.
For example: bionic lenses could help us to see better at night , to focus more quickly or even to stop the lengthening of the eye, one of the causes of myopia. And scientists are working to improve the vision of people with cataracts or glaucoma.
But not everything is medicine: bionic lenses can also be another gadget for entertainment. Some brands are already working to turn them into small screens capable of reproducing images .
Review of some advances in bionic lenses
In general terms, we could talk about four major trends in the development of technology for bionic lenses:
- Contact lenses that correct vision problems or improve visual acuity.
- "Smart" lenses that connect with other devices .
- Contact lens models that monitor your health .
- Or smart lenses that allow the user to supply medication .
All these fields are still open for research in different parts of the world, almost always with the support or initiative of large technology companies .
For example, Samsung and Sony (among others) have already created prototypes of bionic lenses that connect with other devices, such as smartphones, and that can project images onto the retina .
For its part, the University of Michigan is working to develop other lenses that can filter both visible and ultraviolet light. With this breakthrough, users could see at night as easily as during the day .
Spanish science also has a presence in the sector. In 2016, the College of Optics and Optometry of Terrassa developed a contact lens capable of "fighting" myopia . And they do it because they slow down the elongation of the ocular eye.
In the same year, the University of Wisconsin created special lenses for people with glaucoma . These lenses can automatically reshape to adjust focus at any time.
And for disease prevention and problem detection, bionic lenses can do a lot too. At Oregon State University they already have prototype lenses ready that measure levels of glucose, uric acid and other variables, and are capable of supplying medication.