Our Solution
We propose the use of smart contact lenses that utilize piezoelectricity and nanotechnology. The contact lenses, made of hydrogels, are imbedded with an actuator and motor: the actuator provides the device with electricity and the motor sends small vibrations along the lens to counteract the involuntary eye movement.
Piezoelectric Actuator
Piezo effect
Our device is powered by a piezoelectric actuator. A piezoelectric actuator uses the piezoelectric effect, which is the ability to produce electrical energy from mechanical stress. When a piezoelectric material, such as ceramic or bone, is subjected to pressure via two metal plates, it generates electricity. In our device, the movement from the users eye(s) and the device itself would create the pressure needed for the effect to take place.
On a molecular level
The pressure caused by the metal plates causes the atoms in the crystalline structure to shift, creating negative and positive dipoles, generating electricity.
Actuator
Image accessed from Piezoelectric Actuators, Piezo Transducers: Piezo Stacks, Flexures, Tubes, Benders, Shear Actuators...
Vibration Motor
Eccentric Rotating Mass (ERM) Motor
The electrical energy is then sent to an ERM motor, a precise vibration motor. The motor sends small vibrations along the frame of the contact lens, personalized to the user, to counteract the involuntary eye movement.
Image accessed from Core Electronics
Motor
Implementation
Materials
The piezoelectric actuator and motor are reduced to fit within the contact lens using nanoscale materials including thin-film ceramics and piezoelectric polymers. The contact lens itself will be made of hydrogels. The materials are able to withstand continuous strain from blinking and eye movement
Indivdualization
The location of the actuator, motor, and frame can be customized to fit the need of the users type of nystagmus to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness.
