Computer input system using eye glances

Abstract

We have developed a real-time Eye Glance input interface using a Web camera to capture eye gaze inputs. In previous studies, an eye control input interface was developed using an electro-oculograph (EOG) amplified by AC coupling. Our proposed Eye Gesture input interface used a combination of eye movements and did not require the restriction of head movement, unlike conventional eye gaze input methods. However, this method required an input start operation before capturing could commence. This led us to propose the Eye Glance input method that uses a combination of contradirectional eye movements as inputs and avoids the need for start operations. This method required the use of electrodes, which were uncomfortable to attach. The interface was therefore changed to a camera that used facial pictures to record eye movements to realize an improved noncontact and low-restraint interface. The Eye Glance input method measures the directional movement and time required by the eye to move a specified distance using optical flow with OpenCV from Intel. In this study, we analyzed the waveform obtained from eye movements using a purpose- built detection algorithm. In addition, we examined the reasons for detecting a waveform when eye movements failed.