仿生软镜片可像人眼一样自动调焦 或推动下一代可穿戴技术发展

Core Insights - Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a biomimetic soft lens that automatically adjusts its focus based on ambient light intensity, showcasing the potential of light-driven soft materials in adaptive visual systems, autonomous soft robots, smart medical devices, and next-generation wearable technology [1][2] Group 1: Technology and Innovation - The device, named Photonic Responsive Hydrogel Soft Lens (PHySL), consists of a hydrogel embedded with light-absorbing graphene oxide, featuring a central micro-lens that changes curvature in response to light [1] - When exposed to light, graphene oxide absorbs energy, generating heat that causes the hydrogel to contract, stretching the central lens to increase pupil size and focal length; conversely, when light diminishes, the gel cools and returns to its original state, all without external power or mechanical components [1][2] - This design overcomes the limitations of traditional biomimetic optical systems that rely on electronic components or rigid motors, achieving true autonomous adjustment [1] Group 2: Applications and Performance - PHySL has been integrated into conventional bright-field microscopes, enabling high-resolution imaging of various biological samples, capturing intricate details such as the fine hairs on ant legs and the surface structures of pollen grains, with image quality comparable to standard microscope objectives [1] - The lens can automatically adjust focus under natural lighting conditions, making it suitable for dynamic imaging of multi-layer samples; when integrated into fiber imaging systems, it maintains clear focus on targets despite changes in illumination [2] - This innovation represents the latest advancement in the rapidly evolving field of light-driven soft materials, which convert light energy into mechanical deformation, with hydrogels, liquid crystal elastomers, and carbon-based composites being key research areas [2]