Correcting vision problems with a novel tunable lens [abstract]

Abstract

Correction of age-related optical changes in the eye, such as presbyopia, has been increasingly important. Researchers at the University of Missouri-St. Louis have conceived of a new and improved adaptive liquid crystal lens employing the hybrid diffractive lens structure. The inventive lens allows large aperture, high light efficiency, fast switching time, low driving voltage, power-failure-safe configuration, and continuous adjustment of the focusing power. The low-cost, electro-optic lenses will be continuously tunable and offer high optical performance for near, intermediate and distance vision. The invention also provides a new fabrication method for the inventive liquid crystal lens. Potential Areas of Applications: * Adaptive eyeglasses with electro-optic lenses for correction of presbyopia and other vision issues * Employment of the adaptive lens for rapid, high-resolution 3D biomedical microscopic imaging without mechanic scanning Patent Status: * U.S. Patent Application No. 12/719,646 * PCT application filed Inventor(s): Guoqiang Li Contact Info: Tamara Wilgers wilgerst@umsl.edu 314-516-6884