Abstract: Objective To establish a three-dimentional(3D) finite element model of human eye based on the method of the computer aided design(CAD) and human anatomical data. Methods With an intense calculation of anatomical data of human eye, we obtained the geometry and dimension of eyeball, extraocular muscles and optic nerve. Based on the data, we accomplished the sketch, which followed by designing and assembling different sections of eye with UG NX2.0. The processed digital 3D model was input to and meshed by Hypermesh 8, and the 3D finite element model of human eye was constructed with ANSYS. Results A 3D finite element model of a unilateral eye was successfully constructed with 7 047 units and 5 642 nodes. Conclusion Based on the anatomical data, processed with CAD software and finite element analysis software, the 3D finite element model can be established which simulates the real anatomical structures of the human eye. The newly completed model can be used for further finite element analysis and might provide effective platform for biomechanical research of orbital fractures and eye injuries.

Key words: eye, orbital fractures, finite element analysis, 3D reconstruction, biomechanics, computer aided design