by Joel Harrison
21. August 2010 11:24
Bio-inspiration, also known as bio-mimicry, is a field of science that focuses on nature and tries to re-create its best designs and use them to solve mechanical or medical problems. As natural systems have evolved for millions of years, they are often so efficient that they seem to achieve the impossible.
The accommodating intraocular lens, for instance, imitates how the natural crystalline lens changes its shape, allowing a person to see clearly at various distances. Bio-mimicry may also relate to materials. Non-silicone hydrogel contact lens material omafilcon A was the first one to be used on a large scale; it uses a substance found on the outside of some cell membranes and exhibits low bulk dehydration or tear film deposition.
Another idea that comes out of analysing natural systems might be a contact lens with microvilli – just like the cornea – keeping tear film on its surface, which would enhance wettability and deal with the issue of dryness. Numerous studies are currently being carried out into the subject and we may soon expect new, possibly ground breaking solutions in the area of contact lenses.
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