Stereoscopic model of the eye showing pathological changes that occur in diabetic retinopathy.
Imagine yourself as a tiny observer inside the human eye. The UIC three-dimensional virtual model of an eye presents an immersive experience that allows a user to virtually enter the eye to gain an understanding of anatomy and common eye diseases. Features such as the ability to scale, rotate, and view the model from any angle allow for increased comprehension of this complex structure.
The ability to see pathology that occurs with ocular diseases allows observers to gain an appreciation for changes that happen within the eye and how those changes affect vision. In addition, animations demonstrate some dynamic processes within the eye, such as the flow of aqueous humor.
A companion virtual model of a common scene (interior of a house) shows defects in the visual field that are associated with ocular pathology. This model allows people to recognize and "virtually" experience changes in vision that happen with glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. The realism of the model emphasizes the extent to which eye diseases interfere with normal vision and the difficulties encountered by people with visual defects.
Advances in computer technology allow this educational tool to be demonstrated with the use of affordable consumer projectors, inexpensive polarized glasses, a portable P.C. computer, and a large portable screen.