Current standard treatments like surgery, contact lenses or glasses often fall short in fully overcoming certain vision problems. Millions worldwide still face significant vision issues. Smart contact lenses can overcome the limitation of conventional contact lenses or glasses, as they provide additional functionalities to the already existing vision correction. The widespread use of smart contact lenses is limited by the reduced light transmission and high-power consumption of typical materials used as electrodes in microelectronics. GAIA aims to address these shortcomings by introducing a graphene-based artificial iris. The unique properties of graphene, including its flexibility, transparency, and low power requirements, make it an ideal material for advanced eye-related smart applications. GAIA’s primary objective is to develop a next-generation smart contact lens platform with enhanced mechanical reliability, stability, optics, and manufacturing processes for individuals with diverse eye-related medical needs. This involves combining Azalea’s expertise in active light management and electronics in contact lenses with ICN2’s knowledge in flexible graphene electrode fabrication. The project will validate this innovative technology through clinical investigation with real patients. GAIA aims to deliver non-invasive, dynamic solution for conditions such as iris disorders and light sensitivity, potentially improving the quality of life for over 25 million people globally. Successful commercialization will establish Europe as the leader in the smart contact lens market.
