Universidad Politécnica de Tulancingo develops low-cost retinal imaging technology

The Universidad Politécnica de Tulancingo (UPT) is developing a low-cost ophthalmoscopic system designed to produce high-quality retinal images. Led by researcher Enrique González Amador, the project, titled ‘Optical systems for retinal image improvement’, aims to facilitate the early detection of serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

The technology utilizes wavefront coding techniques and phase masks to compensate for human eye optical aberrations. It also employs digital processing tools to mitigate light scattering effects, including those caused by cataracts, to ensure clearer images for ocular examination.

A primary goal of the research is to adapt this technology for mobile devices, such as smartphones. This adaptation is intended to expand access to visual health assessment tools in communities with limited medical infrastructure. The project's work plan, scheduled from August 2026 to August 2027, will involve numerical simulations, laboratory testing, and software optimization for mobile implementation.