A Biomimetic Soft Lens Controlled by Electrooculographic Signal

Abstract

Thanks to many unique features, soft robots or soft machines have been recently explored intensively to work collaboratively with human beings. Most of the previously developed soft robots are either controlled manually or by prewritten programs. In the current work, a novel human-machine interface is developed to use electrooculographic signals generated by eye movements to control the motions and the change of focal length of a biomimetic soft lens. The motion and deformation of the soft lens are achieved by the actuation of different areas of dielectric elastomer films, mimicking the working mechanisms of the eyes of human and most mammals. The system developed in the current study has the potential to be used in visual prostheses, adjustable glasses, and remotely operated robotics in the future.of freedom motions of wheelchair and robots, [7,[18][19][20][21] the current work is the first proof-of-concept design of using EOG signals to control soft machines. Thanks to the fast response of the DEs, [36] the motion and deformation of the soft lens could be easily synchronized with the movements of the eyes. The system developed in the current study has the potential to be used in visual prostheses, adjustable glasses, and remotely operated robotics in the future.

<p>Historical Development, Applications and Advances in Materials Used in Spectacle Lenses and Contact Lenses</p>

“…A prototype CL was developed in which electrooculogram (EOG) signals, generated by eye movements, prompt activation of the lens. 47 It is anticipated that this lens design, comprising of electroactive dielectric elastomer films, PMMA and polyethylene terephthalate materials, could be used in the manufacture of visual prostheses, or allow automatic adjustable-focus for distance and near vision through a double blink mechanism, or be used to remotely control soft robotics via EOG signals. 47…”

Wearable Sensors‐Enabled Human–Machine Interaction Systems: From Design to Application

“…Reproduced with permission. [ 51 ] Copyright 2019, Wiley‐VCH. e) Fabrication process of soft electrothermal, LIG‐based actuators.…”

“…Although it takes a long time to realize wild imaginations in science fiction movies and literature, some of the actual functions have been gradually realized. HMI systems have been thoroughly developed and introduced various novel experiences, manipulators, [ 51 ] and immersive virtual reality (VR) experience. [ 49 ]…”

Stable and High‐Strain Dielectric Elastomer Actuators Based on a Carbon Nanotube‐Polymer Bilayer Electrode

“…Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) based on acrylic elastomers have attracted increasing interests due to their large actuation strain and high energy density. [ 1–5 ] Combined with the features of mechanical compliancy, no noise, light weight and low cost, DEAs have been explored for applications such as biomimetic robotics, [ 6–10 ] tactile displays, [ 11–14 ] tunable optics, [ 15–16 ] and microfluidics. [ 17–18 ] However, the acrylic‐based DEAs show poor reliability and durability, [ 19 ] especially under large strain due to operation close to the dielectric breakdown field of the elastomer films and limited compliancy and continuity of the electrode.…”