Ever wonder what it would be like to see the world through a bug's eyes? Before today, scientists and bug enthusiasts could only guess at what the world would look like through a bug's eyes, until Dr. Douglass came up with a unique invention
(prHWY.com) July 29, 2012 - Seattle, WA -- Ever wonder what it would be like to see the world through a bug's eyes? Before today, scientists and bug enthusiasts could only guess at what the world would look like through a bug's eyes, until Dr. Douglass came up with a unique invention - the bug eyed glasses.
"We scientifically know that bugs have different eye-sight than humans", explained Dr. Douglass, a surgeon who runs a
successful St. Louis eye surgery center. "Until today we could only make educated guesses as to what bugs really saw, but these glasses allow us to really experience it firsthand."
The bug eyed glasses look almost like any traditional pair of sunglasses or prescription glasses. The only difference is the lenses. The lenses on these bug eyed glasses appear to have numerous lines and bends to create a prism-like effect.
"I worked closely with scientists to see how bug's eyes were structured", explained Dr. Douglass. "I took that information and transformed it into a pair of glasses. The lenses are like the pupils and the frames hold them into place."
The bug eyed glasses are made to fit each individual person's eyesight and provide a unique experience. It takes approximately three weeks to correctly draw up the plans for the lenses and customize the pair of glasses.
"Each pair of glasses is highly unique to the individual wearer", explained Dr. Douglass. "It takes a long time to come up with the plans and drawings to make these individual glasses, but when they are finished it really is a work of art."
The bug eyed glasses are not for immediate sale to the public. Currently, the glasses have only been produced for scientists, schools and research labs. It is estimated that the glasses could be available to the public if they receive the proper approval from the optometrist union and the FDA.
"We produced several pairs of glasses for a science fair that focused on bugs", said Sally Tristan, a receptionist for Dr. Douglass. "We also produced some for a college who focused on the study of bugs and insects. It would be extremely cool to release these glasses to the public, if and when that will happen."
Reception for the glasses has been overwhelming. The science fair estimated that it was one of the most popular exhibits they've had in years.
"Kids were just flocking to try these glasses on", said Tina Ringo, director of the science fair. "I think it will help spark interest in science and who knows these kids could become great scientists when they grow up, all because of these glasses."
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