XPANCEO introduces a passive optical contact lens that tracks eye movement using a nanostructured pattern, enabling gaze control and medical applications without sensors.
© Xpanceo
Startup XPANCEO has unveiled an innovative contact lens technology capable of tracking eye movement without batteries, sensors, or complex electronics. This development relies on a passive optical approach and can work with standard cameras in devices like smartphones, laptops, or cars.
Inside the lens is a microscopic nanostructured pattern that responds to eye movement. When the gaze shifts, special optical layers create a distinctive pattern captured by a camera, enabling the determination of the user's gaze direction. The embedded element measures just about 2.5x2.5 mm and is integrated into the lens's soft material. This suggests the technology could potentially be integrated into mass production without major changes to existing processes.
Unlike traditional eye-tracking systems that require infrared lighting and continuous data processing, this new solution consumes no energy and is unaffected by lighting conditions. This makes it simpler, more compact, and versatile. The technology is expected to find applications in consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial sectors. It will allow for gaze-based interface control and monitor driver or operator attention without additional equipment.
There are also prospects in medicine: analyzing eye movements could aid in early diagnosis of neurological diseases. However, the technology is still in early development and requires further real-world testing.