
Researchers have been testing ways to continuously and more comfortably detect these tiny fluctuations in pressure. A prototype smart contact lens measures eye pressure accurately, regardless of temperature. The contact lens wirelessly transmits real-time signals about eye pressure across a wide range of temperatures.
The team designed two miniature spiral circuits, each with a unique natural vibration pattern that would change when stretched by minute amounts, such as with changes to an eye’s pressure and diameter. To create pressure-detecting contact lenses, the researchers sandwiched these tiny circuits between layers of polydimethylsiloxane, a typical contact lens material. Then they wirelessly read the embedded circuits’ vibration patterns by holding a coil near the lens that was connected to a computer. The transmitted signals were unaffected by tests meant to mimic eye movement, extended exposure to moisture (to simulate damp conditions in the eye), and daily wear and tear.
The contact lenses monitored and wirelessly transmitted pressure data from 50° to 122 °F. The researchers say that their dual-circuit smart lens design has potential to be used for accurate early detection and monitoring of glaucoma, even in a wide range of temperatures. (Image credit: ACS Applied Materials)
For more information, visit here .