The virtual retinal display as a low-vision computer interface: A pilot study

This pilot study examined the performance of an alternative computer visual interface, the Virtual Retinal Display (VRD), for low-vision use. The VRD scans laser fight directly onto the retina, creating a virtual image, Since visually impaired individuals can have difficulty using computer displays, a matched comparison study was done between the VRD and the standard catho de ray tube (CRT) monitor. Reading speed and acuity tests were collected fr om 13 low-vision volunteers selected to represent the broad range of partia lly sighted individuals actively involved in the work force. Forty-six perc ent of subjects had highest visual acuity while viewing the VRD; 30% of sub jects had highest acuity viewing the CRT; and 24% of subjects had equal acu ity across the two displays. Although mean reading speed across all 13 subj ects indicated no significant difference between displays, individual subje cts with predominantly optical causes of low vision exhibited clinically im portant increases in reading speed versus the CRT. However, most subjects w ith predominantly retinal damage showed a slight disadvantage using the VRD . We give theoretical explanation to the bifurcated results and conclude th at for a subset of low-vision users, the VRD technology is very promising a s a basis for future low-vision aids.