Engineers from the Faculty of Information-Measuring and Biotechnical Systems at St. Petersburg Electrotechnical University "LETI" have created a model of an eye prosthesis that synchronizes movements with a healthy eye via Bluetooth. This was reported to RIA "Novosti" by the project leader, Roman Antonov. A mini-camera built into the glasses frame captures the movements of the healthy eye and transmits the data to the prosthesis. The microdrive inside the prosthesis receives the signal and reproduces the movement. The prosthesis operates without recharging for 24 hours, with an expected lifespan of three to five years. Currently, a laboratory model, a structural-functional diagram, and the basics of the software are ready.
Design and Materials of the Eye Prosthesis at St. Petersburg Electrotechnical University "LETI"
The prosthesis is made of a polymer material with four key properties. Biocompatibility is a critical requirement for any implantable device.
Resistance to moisture and temperature changes ensures operation in all weather conditions. Low weight eliminates eyelid displacement and muscle problems. Comfort during prolonged wear.
Data transmission via Bluetooth is comparable in principle to wireless headphones, Antonov noted.
Characteristics of the Eye Prosthesis at St. Petersburg Electrotechnical University "LETI"
- Operating principle: camera in glasses reads the movement of the healthy eye, transmits the signal to the microdrive of the prosthesis via Bluetooth
- Material: biocompatible polymer
- Autonomy: up to 24 hours without recharging
- Lifespan: three to five years (expected)
- Status: laboratory model, structural-functional diagram, software basics
Existing eye prostheses are static: they do not move with the healthy eye, which is visually noticeable and psychologically uncomfortable for users. Synchronizing movements via a Bluetooth channel solves this problem without surgical intervention. Similar developments are underway in several countries, but there are currently no mass-produced solutions with wireless synchronization on the market.