Eye-Tracking Headset For Environmental Control

July 2018 - Christopher McMurrough, of the University of Texas-Arlington, has developed an eye-tracking system that should improve upon the limitations of older models (e.g., need for a trained expert to calibrate the system, slow processing time). McMurrough’s system uses a forward-facing, head-mounted camera to generate a 3D map of the environment.  This map is transmitted to a computer where together, with the input from the eye-tracking devices can accurately discern at what the user is looking.  Inspired by his mother-in-law with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the system is intended to allow someone with a mobility disability to independently control things such as a wheelchair, robotic arm, computer, assistive technology, or conceivably any connected device in the environment. McMurrough has patented his system, and other applications are being considered, such as using it in a gaming environment and as an eye-health monitor [Source: Ben Coxworth, New Atlas]