Adaptive Optics for Ophthalmic Imaging

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

1. Project Title: Adaptive Optics for Ophthalmic imaging2. Brief description of the context including potential impact:Vision loss due to retinal diseases is a significant health concern, affecting millions worldwide. The "Adaptive Optics for Ophthalmic Imaging" project at the UCL Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering aims to revolutionise the field of retinal imaging by harnessing adaptive optics (AO) technology. AO, originally developed for astronomy, corrects distortions caused by atmospheric turbulence, resulting in sharper images. In the realm of ophthalmology, AO is used to achieve a diffraction limited focus and allow better imaging of the eye.The project focuses on addressing challenges of retinal imaging such as optical design, surface imperfections correction, signal detection, high-speed electronics, and real-time image processing. Through innovation in various aspects of AO for retinal imaging, including hardware, AI-based control systems, and image analysis, this research seeks to produce high-resolution images that enable early disease detection and guide therapeutic interventions.3. Aims and ObjectivesDevelop advanced adaptive optics systems tailored for retinal imaging.Investigate implementations of hardware-based adaptive optics and computational adaptive optics systems.Design complete retinal imaging systems capable of providing high-resolution images.Implement artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance AO control, optimising image quality.Develop innovative image processing and analysis techniques to extract valuable diagnostic information.Utilise high-resolution images for the early detection of retinal diseases.4. Novelty of research methodologyThe novelty of this research lies in its multidisciplinary approach, combining optics, imaging systems, programming, control systems, and image processing. The utilisation of artificial intelligence for AO control and the development of cutting-edge image processing methods.5. Alignment with EPSRC's strategies and research areasThe "Adaptive Optics for Ophthalmic Imaging" project aligns with the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council's (EPSRC) strategies and research areas. It addresses EPSRC's focus on interdisciplinary research, bridging the gap between engineering and the life sciences. Additionally, the project contributes to advancements in imaging technologies and artificial intelligence, fostering innovation in healthcare. By targeting early diagnosis and treatment for vision-robbing diseases, it aligns with EPSRC's commitment to improving healthcare outcomes through cutting-edge research and technology development.