Bioinspired photoresponsive soft robotic lens

Abstract

Vision is a critical sensory function for humans, animals, and engineered systems, enabling environmental perception essential for imaging and autonomous operation. Although bioinspired, tunable optical systems have advanced adaptability and performance, challenges remain in achieving biocompatibility, robust yet flexible construction, and specialized multifunctionality. Here, we present a photoresponsive hydrogel soft lens (PHySL) that combines optical tunability, an all-solid configuration, and high resolution. PHySL leverages a dynamic hydrogel actuator that autonomously harnesses optical energy, enabling substantial focal tuning through all-optical control. Beyond mimicking biological vision, the system achieves advanced functionalities, including focus control, wavefront engineering, and optical steering by responding to spatiotemporal light stimuli. PHySL highlights the potential of optically powered soft robotics applied in soft vision systems, autonomous soft robots, adaptive medical devices, and next-generation wearable systems.