Inspired by a close friend, University of Canterbury student Logan Williams has invented 3D-printed polarised contact lenses (CLs) to address photosensitive epilepsy.
William’s CLs, called Polar Optics, work by refracting the light entering the sufferer’s vision and dampening the intensity of the light, giving wearers vital seconds to close their eyes and move away from the threat, he said. “The only treatment that gives sufferers some form of protection against the threat of a fit is medication, which can restrict diet, lifestyle and have other adverse potential side effects. Polar Optics mitigates environmental threats, enabling sufferers to go about their daily lives without fear of a seizure. It has the potential to really make a difference to people all over the world with photosensitive epilepsy, and will also help anyone who suffers from headaches and migraines from bright light.”
Williams is working with a European manufacturing company to develop a wearable prototype for Polar Optics, which he hopes to commercialise.
