Oculometer

Oculometer

An oculometer is a device used to measure the movement and position of the eyes. It is commonly used in eye tracking studies, which have applications in various fields such as psychology, neuroscience, human-computer interaction, and marketing.

Schematic of an Oculometer

Functionality

Oculometers work by detecting the position of the eyes and the direction in which they are looking. This is typically achieved through the use of infrared light and cameras. The infrared light is directed towards the eyes, and the cameras capture the reflection of this light from the cornea and the retina. By analyzing these reflections, the oculometer can determine the position of the eyes and the direction of gaze.

Types of Oculometers

There are several types of oculometers, each with its own method of tracking eye movement:

• Video-based oculometers: These use cameras to capture images of the eyes and analyze the movement through image processing techniques.
• Electrooculography (EOG): This method measures the electrical potential between electrodes placed around the eyes to detect movement.
• Scleral search coils: These involve placing a coil on the eye, which moves with the eye and generates a signal in response to a magnetic field.

Applications

Oculometers have a wide range of applications:

• Psychology and Neuroscience: In these fields, oculometers are used to study visual attention, perception, and cognitive processes.
• Human-Computer Interaction: Oculometers are used to develop systems that allow users to interact with computers through eye movements, enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
• Marketing: Eye tracking is used to analyze consumer behavior by studying how people view advertisements and products.
• Medical Diagnostics: Oculometers can assist in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as strabismus, nystagmus, and other disorders affecting eye movement.

Advantages and Limitations

Oculometers offer several advantages, including non-invasiveness and the ability to provide real-time data on eye movements. However, they also have limitations, such as sensitivity to head movements and the need for calibration. The accuracy of an oculometer can be affected by factors such as lighting conditions and the physical characteristics of the user's eyes.

Related Pages

• Eye tracking
• Human-computer interaction
• Electrooculography
• Scleral search coil