Vision Multiplexing For People With Impaired Vision: The cognitive challenge

Eli Peli

Harvard Medical School & Schepens Eye Research Institute

We have proposed a novel concept of vision multiplexing for the visually impaired – superimposing contour images over their natural view of a scene, or over original images presented on a TV screen. We have implemented the concept using an optical see-through head mounted display to provide either visual field expansion to patients with peripheral field loss or vision enhancement to patients with central vision loss. We have also implemented the concept in a video player with dynamic magnification for patients with central vision loss. Results of initial testing in the lab and on the street are promising.  These and other vision multiplexing devices we developed present substantial cognitive challenges for the user as they require attention division between the two presentations’ modes.  We have begun studying these difficulties using basic method of evaluations in addition to real life use of the devices.