Using eye movement as a control device for computer screen cursors

Melson, Michael John; Beardsley, Neil Andrew; Bourbeau, Dennis Joseph

Student Work

Using eye movement as a control device for computer screen cursors

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In this project, a system was designed and built to use eye movement as a control device for computer screen cursors. This project is important because it may provide an alternative method for controlling computer function for the handicapped who cannot use their hands or for anyone seeking a cost-effective, interesting alternative to the conventional mouse or other input devices. This project is also an interesting exploration of the applications of a biosignal. The electro-oculogram (EOG) was used to acquire a bioelectric signal from the eye. In turn, this bioelectric signal, which measures the direction of eye gaze, was processed by specially designed hardware and read in to a computer via serial port. After processing by the serial port, code that has been written for this device processed the signal further, mapping the voltage data of the signal and interpreting it as a position on the computer screen. As a result, an individual was able to move a computer cursor about a computer screen by looking at a particular point on the screen. Several design considerations were used to develop this human-computer interface system. The design process was carefully outlined to indicate how the final design was determined. The design was based on a needs analysis for the computer user, design limitations defined by the MQP team, and specifications of the operation of the device. Tests were performed on a prototype device to measure the system"s accuracy, precision, and repeatability.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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