Abstract
A new instrument was developed to simulate the accommodation of excised human and animal crystalline lenses. The sclera is attached to 8 radially arranged translation stages and dissected into 8 segments. Change in accommodation is simulated by pulling and releasing the scleral segments, varying the load on the zonules and the capsular bag. Each translation stage is equipped with a sensitive force transducer for simultaneous recording of load and displacement. Additionally, changes in optical power, lens diameter, lens thickness and lens shape can be observed and quantified while the lens is stretched and released. The sensitivity and accuracy of the instrument was verified using steel springs and elastic bands. Preliminary results from sensitivity testing and instrument calibration are presented.
