We’ve been seeing intriguing research into electronic contact lenses over the last few years (see flashbacks below) that promises glucose and ocular pressure monitoring directly from the eye and augmented reality computer applications where data is displayed within the contact lens that only the user can see. Ben Krasnow, a tinkerer of electronic and mechanical systems and a contact lens wearer, decided to see whether he can make his own electronic contact lens in his home workshop. Amazingly, he was able to embed a tiny LED between two fused contact lenses and power it using a copper wire transmit coil ring that can be attached around the eye. Ben goes ahead, probably breaks some FDA study rules in the process, and tries on the new lens.
Here’s a video of the construction process of the device:
Flashbacks: Bionic Contact Lens to Check Your Email; Electronic Contact Lenses Promise Future of Advanced Augmented Vision; Electronic Contact Lenses for Better Vision; SENSIMED Triggerfish Electronic Contact Lens Provides Continuous Monitoring of Intraocular Pressure; Electronic Contact Lenses for Better Vision
(hat tip: Gizmodo)