Dr. Yuqiang Bai from the Morsani College of Medicine's Ophthalmology department is
leading groundbreaking dry eye disease research, funded by a prestigious National
Institute of Health grant. To support this vital work, USF IT’s 3D Print Lab, led
by Lucas Tometich, is providing aid and expertise by designing a tool that is being
used to test Dr. Bai’s laser scanner. Dr. Bai’s overall goal is to better understand
and image dry eye disease by measuring the thickness of tears on the cornea.
The Challenge
Dry eye disease affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and vision
problems. To study this condition, Dr. Bai's team needs to image the curved surface
of the cornea accurately. Traditional imaging systems use flat standards like the
1951 USAF resolution test chart, but these are not suitable for the unique curvature
of the cornea.
The Solution
Tometich and his team addressed this challenge with innovative 3D modeling and printing
techniques. Using Autodesk Fusion, the team created a model that mimics the curvature
of the cornea.
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."
Slicer image generated for printing
The final printed model
The Impact
This collaboration highlights the crucial role of IT in advancing medical research.
By providing a standard sample that accurately represents the cornea's curvature,
this work enables Dr. Bai's team to proceed with their imaging system. This system
will provide more detailed information about dry eye disease, potentially leading
to better treatments and improved patient outcomes.
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.”
This partnership between IT and the Morsani College of Medicine exemplifies the innovative
spirit of our university, and we are paving the way for groundbreaking research in
ophthalmology. This project not only advances scientific understanding but also underscores
the vital contributions that IT plays in the medical field.
The 3D Print Lab is part of USF IT’s Advanced Visualization Center (AVC). The AVC
supports students, faculty, and researchers with advanced technologies by providing
development, training, and implementation for courses and research. Click here to learn more.