Abstract

Schematic and reduced eyes are useful models for analyzing optical components and predicting refractive states of living eyes. However, the tedious calculations necessary for their construction makes its difficult to substitute various parameters, thus limiting their practicality. We demonstrate a basic program suitable for IBM PC compatible computers that simplifies the task of constructing schematic and reduced eyes. Given input of intraocular distances, refractive indices, and radii of curvature, the computer performs the necessary calculations and displays the resulting dimensions in tabular and graphic form. The output includes the cardinal points and refractive powers of the cornea, lens, and whole eye, as well as the refractive state of the eye. Our program allows easy substitution of single parameters for comparison of the effects of individual components on the refractive state of the eye, and allows the user to specify a homogeneous or nonhomogeneous lens model. It also supports the Hewlett-Packard 7470 graphics plotter, providing publication quality drawings of the schematic eye. Calculations obtained using this program compare favorably with published schematic eyes. Comparisons with several established schematic eyes are presented, and the source code for the program is available.

© 1985 Optical Society of America