Eye and brain tracking system could cut driver fatigue

The breakthrough device brings together two emerging technologies: high speed eye tracking that records eye movements using cutting edge infra red cameras; and high density electroencephalograph (EEG) technology that measures electrical brain activity through electrodes placed on the scalp. "Historically, eye tracking and EEG have evolved as independent fields," said Dr Matias Ison, who led the research. "By developing novel signal processing techniques, we have managed to overcome the challenges that were standing in the way of integrating these technologies. This is already leading to a much better understanding of how the brain responds when the eyes are moving." The main use of the technology is expected to lie in the automotive sector, whereby the system would be built into a vehicle and connected unobtrusively to the driver, with the EEG looking out for brain signals that only occur in the early stages of sleepiness. The eye tracker would then reinforce this by looking for erratic gaze patterns symptomatic of someone starting to feel drowsy and different from those characteristic of someone driving who is constantly looking out for hazards. In addition to this, Dr Ison says the system could be used to enhance interactivity in next generation computer games, and even enable people with limited arm functionality to control their wheelchairs through eye movements alone.