Head Pose Marker Module for Accurate Eye-Tracking Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eye tracking systems, particularly remote systems, face challenges in providing accurate training data for machine learning algorithms due to the variable pose of the user's head relative to image sensors, which affects the estimation of gaze direction.
Innovation Solution
A motion-capture head module with a headband and multiple markers maintains a fixed geometrical relationship, allowing for accurate triangulation of head pose data, and a calibration device aligns facial features to establish a head coordinate system, enabling precise annotation of training images for head-pose detection algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible headband is used to attach markers to the user's head, then ease of operation and comfort are improved, but the geometric relationship between markers may deform, worsening measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the marker attachment structure into separate components: a flexible headband for comfort and a rigid post structure for maintaining geometric relationships. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
A rigid post acts as an intermediary element between the flexible headband and the markers. This intermediary maintains the fixed geometric relationship between markers while allowing the headband to remain flexible and comfortable for the user.
2Measurement precision
If multiple markers are used to define a fixed geometrical relationship, then measurement precision of head pose is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple markers are merged into a single rigid post structure that maintains fixed geometric relationships between them. This combining approach achieves the measurement precision of multiple markers while reducing the complexity of individually positioning and managing separate marker components.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid post structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it holds multiple markers, maintains fixed geometric relationships, provides structural stability, and simplifies the overall device configuration. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If a rigid post structure is used to maintain marker geometry, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and adaptation to different head sizes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the rigid marker-holding structure from the user-contacting headband. This allows the rigid post to maintain precise geometry while the flexible headband adapts to different head sizes and shapes, improving ease of manufacture and user adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible headband is used as the user-contacting component, allowing adaptation to different head sizes and shapes. This flexible element connects to the rigid post structure, combining the benefits of flexibility for user comfort with rigidity for measurement precision.
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 system provides accurate head pose data for training, enhancing the performance of machine learning algorithms in eye tracking applications by maintaining geometric consistency and improving gaze direction estimation.
Implementation Method 1
The at least three markers may comprise at least three reflective markers. The at least three markers may comprise retro-reflective markers.
Data Source
AI summary
A motion-capture head module for tracking a head pose of a user comprising: a headband for attaching to a head of the user; a post extending from the headband; and at least three markers, wherein each marker is coupled to the post by a respective one of at least three branching members extending from the post, such that the at least three markers have a first fixed geometrical relationship with respect to each other.