The new spiral-shaped lens could be used on contact lenses, in intraocular implants and to create new types of miniaturised imaging systems. Credit: Laurent Galinier

US researchers have developed a new type of lens that uses a spiral-shaped surface to maintain a clear focus at different distances in varying light conditions. The new lens works much like progressive lenses but without the distortions typically seen with those lenses, reported the research team in a press release by Optica Publishing Group.

“Unlike existing multifocal lenses, our lens performs well under a wide range of light conditions and maintains multifocality regardless of the size of the pupil,” said Associate Professor Bertrand Simon from the Photonics, Numerical and Nanosciences Laboratory (LP2N), a joint research unit between France’s Institut d'Optique, the University of Bordeaux and the National Center for Scientific Research. “For potential implant users or people with age-related farsightedness, it could provide consistently clear vision, potentially revolutionising ophthalmology.”

In their paper, published in Optica, researchers said their new “spiral diopter” lens creates many separate points of focus, much like having multiple lenses in one. “This new lens could significantly improve people’s depth of vision under changing lighting conditions,” said A/Prof Simon. “Future developments with this technology might also lead to advancements in compact imaging technologies, wearable devices and remote sensing systems for drones or self-driving cars, which could make them more reliable and efficient.”