Controlling the mouse and the computer simply by looking where you want to go is already here to some extent thanks to a company called Tobii. Last year, the company was showing off its eye-tracking tech and even had the technology inside a Lenovo notebook. This year at CeBIT 2012, the company was showing off its latest eye-tracking technology.
The new eye-tracking tech is called the Tobii IS-2 Eye Tracker module. The company says that this particular model is more flexible and responsive than the version shown last year and can be integrated into more platforms. I think this technology would make a great gaming controller for PC gamers.
How Tobii Eye Tracking Works
The technology has an onboard processor that processes the information gathered from two infrared projectors that illuminate the user’s eyes and a pair of small cameras that record the eye position as the user looks around. The controls of the game or the computer then follow where a person looks. This sophisticated system ensures that the eye-tracking is both accurate and responsive, making it a viable alternative to traditional input devices like the mouse and keyboard.
The Tobii IS-2 Eye Tracker module is designed to be highly adaptable, allowing it to be integrated into various devices beyond just laptops. For instance, it can be used in desktop monitors, gaming consoles, and even specialized medical equipment. This flexibility opens up a wide range of applications, from enhancing user experience in gaming to providing accessibility solutions for individuals with disabilities.
Applications and Future Potential
One of the most exciting applications of Tobii’s eye-tracking technology is in the realm of gaming. Imagine playing a first-person shooter where you can aim simply by looking at your target, or navigating complex menus in a role-playing game without ever touching a controller. This could revolutionize the gaming experience, making it more immersive and intuitive.
Beyond gaming, eye-tracking technology has significant potential in other fields as well. In the medical field, it can be used for diagnostic purposes, such as tracking eye movements to detect neurological disorders. In the automotive industry, eye-tracking can enhance driver safety by monitoring the driver’s attention and alerting them if they become distracted or drowsy.
Moreover, Tobii’s technology can be a game-changer for individuals with disabilities. For those who have limited mobility, eye-tracking can provide a new way to interact with computers and other devices, offering greater independence and improving their quality of life. For example, individuals with conditions like ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) can use eye-tracking to communicate and control their environment, making everyday tasks more manageable.
The potential for eye-tracking technology extends to the realm of virtual and augmented reality as well. By integrating eye-tracking into VR and AR headsets, developers can create more immersive experiences that respond to where the user is looking. This can enhance the realism of virtual environments and make interactions within these spaces more natural and intuitive.
As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications and improvements in accuracy and responsiveness. Tobii’s ongoing research and development efforts are likely to yield new breakthroughs that will further expand the possibilities of eye-tracking technology.
In conclusion, Tobii’s eye-tracking technology represents a significant advancement in how we interact with computers and other devices. With its flexibility, responsiveness, and wide range of applications, it has the potential to transform various industries and improve the lives of many individuals. Whether it’s enhancing gaming experiences, providing new accessibility solutions, or contributing to advancements in medical diagnostics, the future of eye-tracking technology looks incredibly promising.
via ZDNet
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