Contact lens technology has evolved in many exciting ways over the past few decades. In the past, many contacts were made from gas-permeable hard materials. While this style of contact lens allowed some oxygen to reach the eye, they were often uncomfortable and prone to wearer loss. However, modern contact lenses offer an exciting variety of features to ensure comfort and proper eye health. For example, some progressive contact lenses can automatically darken in the presence of bright light. The following guide explores some exciting new developments in the world of contact lens technology.
Modern contact lenses are designed using a variety of new materials. For example, many Progressive contact lenses are designed with a special type of aero-gel. This gel allows the eye to get all the oxygen it needs for proper function. If the eye doesn't have access to adequate oxygen, arteries may start to grow over the cornea in the eye. This can lead to reduced vision as one ages.
In addition, modern contact lenses can often be left in the eye for an extended period of time. In some cases, it may be safe to leave contacts in the eyes for up to 30 days without removal. While not everyone can wear contacts for this length of time without discomfort, these contacts can be valuable for people in certain military and civilian roles.
For example, imagine that a pilot is on a 72 hour mission. While he trades off flying with a copilot, he has to remain on alert for up to three days straight. Since traditional glasses can fog up under these conditions, they may not be appropriate for a pilot. In addition, laser eye surgery can often result in ghosting and other undesirable vision side effects.
With extended-wear contacts, professionals can wear contacts for a very long time with a minimal health risk. In many cases, these contacts will provide an eye with 95 percent of the oxygen it needs for proper function.
In addition, some new types of technology may allow for digital displays in contact lenses. While this technology is still several decades away, it will revolutionize the way that people interact with consumer electronics.
Google Glasses has already incorporated special displays into traditional eye glasses. While there is still limited information available, several early reports have mentioned that Google is also developing this technology for contact lenses. By creating short-distance magnetic wave interference, it's possible to cause color changes on a contact lens. If the fidelity of images can be improved in the future, it may be possible to interact with a computer through one's contact lenses.
While this is still decades away, there are several new technologies that can be effective at improving eye safety. For example, many people experience severe eye injuries every year from airborne debris. One new type of contact lens technology uses a special layer of translucent Kevlar to protect the eyes from airborne debris. These specialized contacts are designed to fit over the entire surface of the eye. With this technology, people will be able to work in dangerous construction zones and laboratories without the need for traditional safety glasses. However, this technology is still years away.
