Dynamic contact angle measurement in soft contact lenses exposed to maintenance solutions using the optical edge detection method

Abstract

Soft contact lenses are optical devices that interact directly with the ocular surface, including the cornea and conjunctiva. This constant interaction has driven research efforts by pharmaceutical and optical companies, focusing on improving material quality, among other aspects, to optimize the ocular environment and performance of these lenses. The availability of optoelectronic tools capable of determining the degree of contact lens material wettability would significantly complement ongoing studies related to the comfort and function of these devices. The present study focused on the implementation of an optoelectronic device and a digital titrator for the controlled application of drops from two types of maintenance solutions. Through digital image processing and the application of the optical edge detection method, the aim was to determine the dynamic contact angle variation of these solutions on the contact lens surfaces.