Nonpupil adaptive optics for visual simulation of a customized contact lens.

We present a method for determining the deformable mirror profile to simulate the optical effect of a customized contact lens in the central visual field. Using nonpupil-conjugated adaptive optics allows a wider field simulation compared to traditional pupil-conjugated adaptive optics. For a given contact lens, the mirror shape can be derived analytically using Fermat's principle of the stationary optical path or numerically using optimization in ray-tracing programs. An example of an aspheric contact lens simulation is given to illustrate the method, and the effect of eye misalignment with respect to the deformable mirror position is investigated. The optimal deformable mirror conjugation position is found to be near the posterior corneal surface. Chromatic aberration analysis is also presented, and our findings indicate that the polychromatic simulation quality is similar to that of the monochromatic case, even though the mirror is a reflective component. The limitations of a single continuous surface deformable mirror to mimic a contact lens are outlined, with some recommendations for improving the quality of simulation.