Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for evaluation of focal length and transparency of vertebrate eye lenses is provided. Preferably with the aid of an alignment camera, a lens horizontally mounted in a transparent container is positioned with the axis of the lens aligned with scanning direction of a laser projected vertically through the lens. The laser is scanned across the lens, and an analysis camera at ninety degrees to the scanning path captures images of the path of the laser beam through the lens. The images are then analysed for determination of focal length, spherical aberration, and the like. Changes over time in response to a stimulus may be evaluated.

Abstract: A container for holding and culturing a lens is disclosed, comprising a transparent base member, a transparent lens carrier supported laterally in the base member and having a central aperture, and a transparent cover engaging the base member for enclosing the lens carrier within the container. The base is circular in top view, and in sectional elevation is in the form of a flanged U-shape, forming a well. The lens carrier is a circular plate with a central aperture. The lip of the aperture tapers downwardly in order to support the outer rim of the lens to be tested. The cover has an annular flange and a raised center section with angled sidewalls. The sidewalls have two flat sections offset from each other by 90 degrees, which act as viewing ports. The lens to be studied is centered in the aperture in the bottom of the lens carrier. The lens carrier is ordinarily provided with passage holes to permit the free passage of the culture medium from one side of the lens to the other.

Abstract: A method for in vitro evaluation of focal length changes in a lens is disclosed, involving the steps of projecting parallel laser beams through the lens at at least two points, examining the convergence of the beams after exiting the lens to determine the focal length of the lens, and after a period of time, repeating these steps and comparing the focal length. Preferably, a scanning laser is used so that a number of beams pass through different spots on the lens, so that the spherical aberration of the lens may also be determined and compared over time. Apparatus is disclosed for carrying out the method, comprising a carousel plate having a number of spaced holes for receiving lens containers. A carousel drive servo motor rotates the carousel from lens container position to lens container position. A helium-neon laser is mounted horizontally on an X-Y table, and the laser beam is deflected upwardly through a lens held in a lens container.