Virtual Eye: retinal image visualization of the human eye

In computer graphics, ray tracing produces realistic images of 3D scenes. Most work in the field has focused on modeling reflection to account for the interaction of light with different materials, deriving illumination algorithms to simulate light transport throughout the environment, and designing new optimization techniques. Additional work by (Cook et al., 1984) targeted simulation of depth of field and motion blur. Kolb and Hanrahan (1995) presented a realistic camera model that simulates aberration and radiation and produces images showing a variety of optical effects. Our challenge is to combine these two well-developed scientific fields to simulate human vision. We have begun to do so with the development of the Virtual Eye, a method to visualize retinal images. This article describes how the Virtual Eye simulates retinal perception and discusses its potential value in clinical applications such as planning and evaluating surgical techniques or new lens combinations.