Scientists have created robotic contact lenses that are controlled by small eye movements. By simply double blinking, the wearer will be able to zoom in and out on command. Rather than be controlled manually or be pre-programmed, these lenses mimic the natural electric signals in the human eyeball that are active even when the eye itself is closed. The research team at University of California San Diego harnessed this natural charge to control the lens. Read more for another picture and additional information.
The lens, made from polymers that expand when electric current is applied, is controlled using five electrodes surrounding the eye which act like muscles. Put simply, when the polymer becomes more convex, the lens zooms in. The ultimate goal of this research project is to help create a prosthetic eye or small camera that can be controlled using just the eyes alone.
