Contact Lenses and Tear Film Evolution

Abstract: The tears that surround your eye are an integral part of proper eye function. Dry-eye is a condition when the tear film thins to a point where the tear film loses its ability function properly. The use of contact lenses in some patients can increase the likelihood of this condition. Through this talk, I will introduce the mechanics of the tear film (Navier-Stokes Equations) and the mechanics of the motion of the tears in the contact lens (Darcy's Equations), both of which are coupled together, in a thin film, lubrication theory setting. This coupled system is solved numerically and the results are then used to determine the influences certain boundary conditions and material properties of the contact lens have on the drying of the tear film.