EyeMo: A Solution for Individuals with Disabilities to Use a Computer Through Eye Movements

Abstract

The maintenance of an upright posture and the execution of desired movements by individuals necessitate the seamless and harmonious functioning of the muscular and skeletal systems. Neuromuscular diseases, spinal cord injuries, and related conditions can adversely impact individuals' motor functions, leading to a loss of muscle strength and, in severe cases, paralysis. Such health challenges may result in social isolation and detachment from one's social life. This study is focused on the development of a computer control application utilizing eye movements to aid users in navigating and interacting with computers. The system utilizes a lightweight eyeglass frame and a mini-USB camera to accurately capture images of the user's pupil. Pupil detection is achieved through a combination of traditional image processing and deep learning techniques, ensuring high accuracy under diverse conditions. Users have the ability to interactively calibrate the application to accommodate varying screen sizes, thereby enhancing system responsiveness. The user interface incorporates functionalities such as left-click, right-click, double-click, and scrolling, empowering users to perform tasks ranging from internet browsing to video watching. 
 After the development of the application, a request for research permission was submitted to the local institution to allow volunteers to test the application, adhering to ethical standards. Following the approval of ethical clearance, the application was made available for use by volunteers, and feedback was systematically collected. Volunteers generally reported that the application was beneficial, indicating its potential use by disadvantaged individuals. The upcoming versions of the application have the potential for integration with smart home systems. Additionally, the developed application can be used in games and for educational purposes.