2026/05/18 by Priscila Gil · 1 voice
Engineering · Medicine · #Advanced optical system design #Electrowetting and Microfluidic Technologies #Ophthalmology and Visual Impairment Studies
paper · pdf · doi:10.3897/arphapreprints.e199731
openalex publication_date 2026/05/18 · openalex created_date 2026/05/19 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/31
Individuals with high myopia face not only visual challenges but also aesthetic and structural limitations in the optical solutions currently available. Even high-index lenses (up to n = 1.76) still exhibit considerable peripheral edge thickness at strong refractive powers, resulting in visual distortions, ocular minification effects, and aesthetic discomfort. This study proposes a biomimetic hybrid optical lens with a multifasic structure, composed of a very-high-index core (≥1.9) encapsulated by layers inspired by the lamellar microarchitecture of nacre. Theoretical comparisons of edge thickness between conventional materials and the proposed structure are presented, with simulations at high myopic powers (e.g., −14.00 D) indicating peripheral thickness reductions of approximately 27–35% (depending on the reference material) and improved optical stability. The approach relies on materials already used in the precision-optics industry, such as optical zirconia and specialty high-index glasses, which favor scalable implementation. Beyond its ophthalmic application, the hybrid structure proves versatile for emerging photonic systems such as high-resolution digital sensors, LiDAR technology, artificial retinas, and optical microprocessors—fields in which beam-directional stability, lightweight design, and thermal robustness are critical. The proposed lens thus represents not only a concrete alternative for users with high myopia but also a multifunctional platform in applied optics, combining immediate clinical impact with long-range technological potential.