Simulation of active eye motion using finite element modelling

Abstract

Dynamic simulation of human eye movements can significantly improve our understanding about the visuomotor system and also may be used for clinical applications. In this study we have developed a 3D finite element model of the eye orbit. The major novel issues which are considered in this work are using dynamic finite element method for properly mass distribution modelling during simulation and active motion simulation by employing muscle activation parameter. In this modelling, extraocular muscles are modelled using a continuum constitutive hyper-elastic energy function. Simulation results of force duction and active motion are presented and compared with the experimental results to verify the accuracy and reliability of the proposed modelling. Then, orbital fat deformation during eye motion is studied through various simulations and compared with experimental results. Finally, the proposed eye model and available experimental data are exploited to investigate more details about eye suspension deformation and extraocular muscles characteristics.