Picture: University of South Florida
An interdisciplinary project at the University of South Florida (USF) is using 3D printing to specifically advance ophthalmological research into dry eyes. At the center of the project is a collaboration between the Morsani College of Medicine and the 3D Print Lab at USF IT, in which a precise, curved test model was produced for a newly developed laser scanner. The aim of the research is to measure the thickness of the tear film on the cornea more accurately and thus enable a better understanding of the disease mechanisms.
The challenge in imaging diagnostics lies in the complex, curved geometry of the human cornea. Conventional test patterns such as the 1951 USAF Resolution Test Chart are flat and therefore unsuitable for precise calibration of such scanners. To solve this problem, Lucas Tometich, Head of the 3D Print Lab, and his team developed a model that reproduces the curvature of the cornea as realistically as possible.
Tometich explains, “Based on the requirements provided, I created a model using Autodesk Fusion. I conducted several tests to determine the optimal orientation and post-processing workflow, ensuring we achieve the clearest results with clear photopolymer resin. We have made a few adjustments this week and delivered three more pieces for testing with the scanner.”Dr. Bai emphasizes the importance of this work: “We needed a model that mimics the curvature of the cornea’s surface to demonstrate the feasibility of our imaging system. Until we had one, we weren’t able to proceed with our research.”
The project illustrates how 3D printing can act as an interface between information technology and medical research. The collaboration not only provides a practical application example for additive manufacturing, but also contributes to the development of more precise diagnostic procedures in ophthalmology.