Computational Reconstruction of the Physical Eye Using a New Gradient Index of Refraction Model

Abstract

This thesis proposes and tests an individually customizable model of the human crystalline lens. This model will be crucial in developing both research on the human eye and driving diagnostic tools to help plan and treat optical issues, such as those requiring refractive surgery.

This thesis attempts to meet two goals: first, it will determine whether this new lens model can reproduce the major aberrations of real human eyes using a computational framework. Second, it will use clinical information to measure how well this model is able to predict post-operation results in refractive surgery, attempting to meet clinical standards of error.

The model of the crystalline lens proposed within this thesis is shown to be valid, as it is able to both reproduce individual patient's optical information, and correctly predicts the optical results of a refractive surgery of an individual human eye within clinical standards of error.