Improved mobility performance with an artificial vision therapy system using a thermal sensor

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the benefit of integrating thermal imaging into an artificial vision therapy system, the Argus II retinal prosthesis, in simplifying a complex scene and improving mobility performance in the presence of other persons. Approach: Four Argus II retinal implant users were evaluated on two tasks: to locate and approach target persons in a booth, and to navigate a hallway while avoiding people. They completed the tasks using both the original Argus II system (the 'Argus II camera') and a thermal-integrated Argus II system (the 'thermal camera'). The safety and efficiency of their navigation were evaluated by their walking speed, navigation errors, and the number of collisions. Main results: Navigation performance was significantly superior when using the thermal camera compared to using the Argus II camera, including 75% smaller angle of deviation (p< 0.001), 48% smaller error of distance (p< 0.05), and ...