At Purdue University researchers have come up with a way of reliably attaching thin film sensors and other small electronic devices to soft contact lenses. The capability may allow for real-time, non-invasive measurement of glucose levels, delivery of drugs directly to the eye, and maybe even tracking intraocular pressure.
“We developed a very unique technology that enables the integration of thin film sensors with a commercially available soft contact lens,” said Chi Hwan Lee, an engineering professor at Purdue. “These current hydrogel-based contacts serve as the perfect platform for smart lens systems due to their high degree of comfortability, biocompatibility, breathability and long-term wearability. Before our discovery, it was challenging to fabricate high-performance electronics on commercially available soft contact lenses.”
The researchers were already able to integrate sensors that measure glucose, lactate, and pH levels within the tears of the eye. More capabilities should be possible, as a great deal of other sensors can be miniaturized to the point of being able to appear on a contact lens.
There’s still a good deal of development that remains, but Purdue is already looking for partners to help commercialize the technology.
Via: Purdue University…