Intelligent fibers and self-powered wearable devices for ophthalmic applications: a frontier review

Abstract

The combination of intelligent fibers (IFs) and self-powered technologies provides new opportunities for wearable systems to interface with precision organs such as the eye and brain. In contrast to conventional ophthalmic diagnostics, which typically rely on bulky, externally powered equipment and offer only intermittent measurements, IF-based wearable devices leverage inherent flexibility, biocompatibility, and multifunctionality to support the minimally invasive, long-term in vivo monitoring and neural modulation. From a clinical perspective, the coupling of fiber design with autonomous energy strategies is central to enabling closed-loop ophthalmic platforms that operate without continuous external support. In this review, we examine recent progress across fiber materials, structural design, power solutions, and system-level integration, with emphasis on breakthroughs that have enabled applications including dynamic intraocular pressure monitoring, tear fluid biochemical analysis, visual function restoration, and neural interfaces. We further discuss the remaining challenges and emerging trends related to biocompatibility, energy autonomy, scalable manufacturing, and clinical translation, providing a forward-looking perspective on the development of next-generation IF-based diagnostic and therapeutic platforms.

Keywords

Intelligent fibers / self-powered / ophthalmic wearables / biosensing / visual restoration

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