Eye Gaze Detection Using Single Light Source and Multiple Imaging Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional eye gaze detection devices become complicated and large due to the need for two light sources, which complicates device configuration and makes it difficult to separate the reflection points accurately.
Innovation Solution
An eye gaze detection device using a single light source, such as an LED, and multiple imaging units to detect the pupil and corneal reflection centers, calculating the corneal curvature center based on the light source position, pupil center, and corneal reflection center, allowing for accurate eye gaze detection without the need for a complex device configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two light sources are used to detect eye gaze, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into two parts: one light source provides illumination while multiple imaging units capture different optical information (corneal reflection and pupil position). This segmentation allows accurate eye gaze detection without requiring multiple light sources, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The single light source serves multiple functions: it illuminates the eye for both corneal reflection detection and pupil position detection. The multiple imaging units also perform multiple detection functions. This multi-functionality approach replaces the need for two separate light sources, simplifying the device configuration.
2Measurement precision
If two light sources are used to detect eye gaze, then measurement precision is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into one light source combined with multiple imaging units, where each imaging unit captures specific optical features. This segmentation eliminates the need for a second light source and its associated mounting space, thereby reducing overall device size while maintaining the precision required for accurate eye gaze detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the illumination function and detection function into a more compact configuration. The single light source is positioned to work with multiple imaging units that are closely arranged, allowing the system to achieve accurate eye gaze detection in a smaller overall device footprint compared to systems requiring two separated light sources.
3Volume of moving object
If the distance between two light sources is small, then device size is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to overlapping reflection points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection tasks by using multiple imaging units that capture different optical features (corneal reflection points and pupil center) from a single light source. This segmentation allows the imaging units to be positioned closely together without causing measurement errors, as each unit independently detects specific features rather than requiring spatially separated light sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a spatial separation approach (two light sources positioned far apart) to a dimensional differentiation approach (multiple imaging units detecting different optical features in different dimensions). The imaging units capture corneal reflection points and pupil center positions along different optical paths, allowing accurate feature separation even when the physical distance between imaging units is small.
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 solution simplifies the device configuration, reduces size, and enables accurate eye gaze detection, making the device more compact and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
an illuminator including a light source that performs irradiation with light
Implementation Method 2
eye ball reflection of light irradiated from a light source is detected
Data Source
AI summary
An eye gaze detection supporting device includes an illuminator including a light source that performs irradiation with light, a plurality of imaging units, position detectors that detect a first position indicating a center of a pupil and a second position indicating a center of corneal reflection, from an image of an eye ball of a subject irradiated with light by the illuminator, and captured by the imaging units, and a calculator that calculates a fourth position indicating a curvature center of a cornea, based on a position of the light source, a third position on a display, the first position, and the second position.