Researchers focus on improving bifocals by creating auto-focus lenses
11:44 a.m. Monday, September 11, 2006
In the optical science lab at the University of Arizona, the world of eyewear is being transformed.
University of Arizona researchers have been working on new electronic lenses. The idea started five years ago, when a company approached them with an intriguing project.
"They had this idea of, you know, improving bifocals so that they could switch between two different distances," said University of Arizona professor David Mathine.
Bifocal glasses have two lenses: the top for seeing distance and the lower for close-up work, like reading.
New, electronic lenses would eliminate the need for two different lenses. They work by applying electrical current to liquid crystal sandwiched between two pieces of glass. This changes the sharpness of the entire lens.
"Similarly in the way a bifocal works, you have the bottom half and the top half of the lens is divided up. Well on these lenses, the whole lens changes focus," Mathine said.
Before the glasses hit the market, the scientist will develop more stylish spectacles that will auto-focus just like a camera.
"In the future, we'll have a most likely an integrated range finder to tell you know if you're looking at something close or far away," he said.
The glasses will hopefully be on the market in about five years.
The University of Arizona has licensed their lens patent to a company planning to market auto-focus eyewear to the public.
And, scientists say they hope one day to apply this technology to contact lenses.
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