Yeah… I see syringes and eyeballs and I just cringe. I don’t care what it’s for. I don’t care that it’s a good idea. I don’t care that this process will save money, time and get proper eyewear to those that need it. I see syringes and eyeballs. I don’t even wear contacts. The thought of sticking a finger in my eye on purpose sounds like the most gawd-awful idea ever. I’m against it. Luckily I don’t need to wear ‘em. (At least that’s what I keep telling myself).
The syringes in question don’t actually come anywhere near the eyes, but close enough, is close enough. What is really going on though, for those of you that do need glasses, is that the eyeglass lenses are injected with fluid to help determine the correct type of lenses needed.
Adaptive Eyewear, a British nonprofit, is trying to bring much-needed eyewear to developing countries. High numbers of people need glasses, but cost and access to proper prescriptions are hindrances. By creating one set of glasses, with adaptable lenses, there is no need for an optometrist. Users simply figure out their own prescriptions by injecting fluid into the lenses. When they can see, they pop off the syringes and are good to go.
It’s an innovative and elegant solution to a serious problem. Being able to see is a good thing. Now if I can only get those images of syringes out of my mind.
via Boing Boing