Developing a robotic system for safe eye examinations

NRI: Toward Safe and Reliable Robotic Eye Examinations

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11092710

This study is working on a friendly robot that can give you a complete eye exam, including checking your glasses prescription, to make eye care easier and safer for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-11092710 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a robotic system that can perform comprehensive eye examinations, including imaging of the cornea, lens, and retina, as well as measuring eyeglass prescriptions. The project aims to enhance access to preventive eye care while ensuring patient safety through advanced motion sensing and planning technologies. By integrating real-time human tracking with robotic capabilities, the study seeks to minimize risks associated with close human-robot interactions. The research will be conducted over three years, with specific aims to build the robotic instrument, enhance safety measures, and evaluate the system's reliability.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals requiring routine eye examinations, particularly those at risk for age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mobility impairments or those unable to participate in a robotic examination setup may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more accessible eye examinations for patients, improving overall eye health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic systems for medical examinations, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions age related macular disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.