Development of a visual impairment simulator using the Microsoft XNA Framework

摘要

This paper describes the development of a visual impairment simulator based upon a virtual environment developed using Microsoft's XNA framework and High Level Shader Language. Shaders were developed to simulate the effects of cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, myopia and hyperopia. These were then used to impair the real time display of an explorable 3D virtual environment. The simulator was evaluated by a qualified optician and trialled with a group of students. The paper concludes that further development is required to fully and accurately represent the impairments, however the simulator remains effective in improving participants level of understanding of visual impairments.