Perceiving depth beyond sight: Evaluating intrinsic and learned cues via a proof of concept sensory substitution method in the visually impaired and sighted.

ABSTRACT: This study explores spatial perception of depth by employing a novel proof of concept sensory substitution algorithm. The algorithm taps into existing cognitive scaffolds such as language and cross modal correspondences by naming objects in the scene while representing their elevation and depth by manipulation of the auditory properties for each axis. While the representation of verticality utilized a previously tested correspondence with pitch, the representation of depth employed an ecologically inspired manipulation, based on the loss of gain and filtration of higher frequency sounds over distance. The study, involving 40 participants, seven of which were blind (5) or visually impaired (2), investigates the intrinsicness of an ecologically inspired mapping of auditory cues for depth by

SUBMITTER: Maimon A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11423994 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature