AR Contact Lenses Powered by Human Tears: The Future of Augmented Reality
Who needs an external battery when you have good old-fashioned emotions?
Scientists based out of Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have begun working on augmented reality (AR) contact lenses capable of displaying virtual information in the real world.
But here’s the really interesting part: according to an official release from the university, these high-tech contacts are powered by human tears.
The Revolutionary Power Source
The team at NTU Singapore has embarked on the development of a flexible battery that is roughly as thin as the human cornea. This ultra-slim battery can store electricity when in contact with a saline source, which can be found in tears. The researchers project that this solution can extend the battery life up to four hours for every 12-hour cycle. Of course, the contacts can also be charged using an external battery.
“The most common battery charging system for smart contact lenses requires metal electrodes in the lens, which are harmful if they are exposed to the naked human eye,” said Co-first author Dr. Yun Jeonghun, a research fellow from NTU’s EEE, in the official release.
The Advantages of Tear-Based Battery
The battery in these AR contact lenses is made of biocompatible materials, ensuring a comfortable experience compared to some other smart contacts. Since no wires or toxic materials are used in their development, users can enjoy a safe and seamless interaction.
“Meanwhile, another mode of powering lenses, induction charging, requires a coil to be in the lens to transmit power, much like a wireless charging pad for a smartphone. Our tear-based battery eliminates the two potential concerns that these two methods pose, while also freeing up space for further innovation in the development of smart contact lenses,” explained Dr. Jeonghun.
The Future of AR Contact Lenses
The research team at NTU Singapore has already filed a patent through NTUitive and has plans to commercialize these smart contacts in the near future. This breakthrough in battery technology opens up a world of possibilities for augmented reality, transforming how we perceive information.
For more information, you can check out the official release from the university. Additionally, you may read the research paper titled “A tear-based battery charged by biofuel for smart contact lenses” here.
Editor Notes: The Promising Future of VR Game News
At VR Game News, we thrive on bringing you the latest updates and innovations in the world of virtual reality. The development of AR contact lenses powered by human tears presents a significant leap forward in the integration of virtual and real worlds.
As these technologies continue to evolve, VR Game News will be your trusted source for staying informed and entertained. Stay tuned for more exciting advancements and be a part of the immersive virtual reality experience.
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