Eye-Gaze Detection Optics Using Single-Source Beam Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing line-of-sight detection technologies face challenges in achieving a smaller and more accurate apparatus due to the need for a large number of light sources and limited freedom in light source arrangement, which affects accuracy and is exacerbated by individual differences in eye anatomy.
Innovation Solution
A line-of-sight detection apparatus utilizing a single light source and an irradiation light dividing element to form multiple point-shaped optical images on the eyeball, combined with a micro light source array for two-dimensional image formation, enabling high-accuracy detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of light sources are used to form multiple Purkinje images, then line-of-sight detection accuracy is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single light source into multiple beams using a beam splitting element, creating multiple Purkinje images from one light source. This segmentation of light paths allows the system to achieve the detection accuracy of multiple light sources while using only one physical light source, thereby reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a beam splitting element as an intermediary component that takes light from a single source and distributes it into multiple beams. This intermediary enables the formation of multiple Purkinje images without requiring multiple light sources, resolving the contradiction between detection accuracy and device complexity
2Measurement precision
If multiple light sources are arranged to form Purkinje images, then detection accuracy improves, but freedom in arrangement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a beam splitting element that can be dynamically configured to create different beam arrangements. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to various eye anatomical variations and achieve accurate Purkinje image formation without being constrained by fixed light source positions, thereby improving arrangement freedom
3Device complexity
If a single light source is used, then device size is reduced, but forming multiple Purkinje images becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light from a single source into multiple beams using a beam splitting element, enabling the formation of multiple Purkinje images. This segmentation allows the system to maintain detection accuracy while using only one light source, thus achieving compact device size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point light source to a multi-beam light distribution by introducing spatial dimensionality through the beam splitting element. This dimensional transformation allows multiple Purkinje images to be formed in different spatial locations from a single light source, resolving the contradiction between device size and detection accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus achieves high accuracy in line-of-sight detection with reduced size, minimizing the impact of eye anatomy variations and stray light, and allows real-time superimposition of line-of-sight information on displays.
Implementation Method 1
an irradiation unit configured to irradiate an eyeball with light in an infrared wavelength band
Implementation Method 2
a dividing element configured to divide the light emitted from the single light source into a plurality of beams of the emitted light to form the plurality of point-shaped optical images
Implementation Method 3
an acquisition unit configured to acquire an eyeball image
Data Source
AI summary
A line-of-sight detection apparatus includes an acquisition unit configured to acquire an eyeball image, an irradiation unit configured to irradiate an eyeball with light in an infrared wavelength band, forming a plurality of point-shaped optical images on the eyeball image, and a calculation unit configured to calculate line-of-sight information based on the eyeball image and the plurality of point-shaped optical images, wherein the irradiation unit includes at least one single light source configured to emit the light in the infrared wavelength band, and a dividing element configured to divide the light emitted from the single light source into a plurality of beams of the emitted light to form the plurality of point-shaped optical images.