Model-based gaze estimation using distorted markers

Abstract

Marker-based gaze estimation has been actively studied for supporting large displays instead of conventional eye-tracking using glints generated by emitting near-infrared light from LEDs. Reference markers can be displayed on a screen as imperceptible markers, and it can be identified using observation. However, the surface of the cornea is not flat; thus, the reflection of the marker is distorted. The distortion of the marker affects the accuracy of the estimation of the corneal center. Therefore, we propose a distorted marker that can be observed as an undistorted marker on the cornea, and the point-of-gaze is estimated using the distorted markers on a model-based approach. The comparative evaluation was performed, and the feasibility of the proposed method was confirmed.