Artificial Vision for the Blind: The Summit May Be Closer Than You Think

A proposed system for artificial vision for the blind is illustrated. First, information from light and ultrasonic sensors is processed by a belt mounted image processing computer. Stimulating signals are then transmitted to electrodes on the surface of the brain via a connecting pedestal that perforates the scalp. A sensation of light is produced when each electrode is stimulated. Experiments are carried out by stimulating the visual cortex of sighted volunteers undergoing neurosurgical procedures for the removal of tumors and vascular malformations. Data from implants in a selected group of blind volunteers are also presented.