A laser emitting contact lens for eye tracking

A Khaldi,F Ferranti,F Seguin,C Kärnfelt,V Nourrit,J-L De Bougrenet De La Tocnaye,E Daniel,C Lahuec,L Massin

doi:10.1038/s41598-020-71233-1

Abstract

In this paper, we present the first realisation and experimentation of a new eye tracking system using an infrared (iR) laser pointer embedded into a wireless smart contact lens. We denote this contact lens prototype as the cyclops lens, in reference to the famous hero of the X-Men comics. The full eye tracker device combines the smart contact lens and its eyewear, which provides a primary source of energy and the beam detection system. We detail the assembling and encapsulation process of the main functionalities into the contact lens and present how a gaze tracking system is achieved, compared to existing conventional eye-tracking ones. Finally, we discuss future technical improvements.

Highlights

In this paper, we present the first realisation and experimentation of a new eye tracking system using an infrared laser pointer embedded into a wireless smart contact lens
We propose here to use a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) because of the good ratio between the laser power and the power supplied as well as the very low divergence which allows for a high quality beam spot
We have demonstrated the principle and feasibility of a new generation of eye trackers, using a laser pointer embedded into a wireless scleral contact lens

Summary

Introduction

We present the first realisation and experimentation of a new eye tracking system using an infrared (iR) laser pointer embedded into a wireless smart contact lens. Their overall functions were relatively specific (e.g., intraocular pressure gauge (IOP) or glucose monitoring) they operated as interrogators and did not implement complex cognitive tasks In this context, including a laser pointer directly on the eye could provide a potentially simpler and more compact solution to measure eye gaze compared to available technologies based mostly on image p rocessing[20,21]. It would allow demonstrating the use of an electronic contact lens as component of a more complex system (eye tracking). Electrooculography can be useful in some context (e.g. when the eyes are closed) but offer limited r esolution[3] (~ 2°) and are sensitive to various factors (facial muscle activity, electrical interferences, etc.) that limit its use

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