At the University of Washington, Seattle, Washington State, US, a group of researchers demonstrated the first electronic contact lenses. In this demonstration, the electronic circuits were not powered but it showed that electronic circuits could be deposited on contact lenses. The prototype was used on a rabbit which did not feel any discomfort during the 20 minutes trial.
Electronic circuit with an array of LEDs.
By depositing LEDs (light emitting diodes) and other supporting circuitries, wearer can view information displayed by the LEDs on these lenses.
Researchers have figured out how to deposite electronic circuits on flexible organic plastic substrate from which most contact lenses are made.
Customised components are made including the LEDs which are about one third (1/3) of a millimeter in diameter. Each electronic component in the circuit is uniquely shaped.
The surface of the lenses is pre-patterned with metallic traces which are used to connect the electronic components and cavities/slots in which the components are to be placed.
The very tiny electronic components are mixed with a solution which is spread on the surface of the lenses. Capillary forces similar to the force that drives water up from the roots of a plant upwards to the leaves, pull each of these tiny components in the solution to the assigned cavity or slot. Only component with the right shape will sit in the slot with a compatible shape.
Later, researchers will deposite power sources such as solar cells onto the lenses to power the circuit. RF wireless receiver will also be deposited to receive data from a RF data transmitter. The circuits are located out of the field of view of the eyes so that they will not disturb normal visions
Applications for these lenses include military (displaying tactical information on soldier's eye lens, much like what Terminator sees on his eyes), gamer or internet surfing, etc.
Electronic micro-lenses can also be made on these lenses to correct wearer's vision.
