Researchers from the University of Southern California have created a headset they believe can aid visually impaired people in conducting routine tasks. The device--a Head Mounted Display--uses a video camera to collect "real-world information" within view of the wearer, and a mathematical algorithm to convert the images collected into pixels displayed to the individual. Blinking dots located on the side of the display screen then aid wearers by offering directional cues.
The researchers say they believe that the algorithm will be able to enhance retinal implants, which, they add, typically are low-resolution. In research published this week in the Journal of Neural Engineering, they determine that the device helped 19 subjects who tested the device reduce errors in completing set tasks.
Earlier this week, we reported about a wirelessly controlled microchip with the ability to restore some sight to patients with limited vision. Announcement