eyetracker

An eye tracker is a device or system designed to measure and record the movement and position of the eyes. These devices are used in various fields, including psychology, neuroscience, human-computer interaction, marketing, and medical diagnostics, to analyze visual attention, gaze patterns, and ocular behavior.

Eye trackers typically operate by using either video-oculography or infrared illumination to detect the direction and fixation points of the eyes. Video-oculography employs cameras and image processing algorithms to track eye movements in real-time, while infrared-based systems utilize reflections from the cornea and pupil to determine gaze direction. The collected data can reveal where a person is looking, how long they fixate on specific objects, and the sequence of their visual exploration.

Applications of eye tracking include usability testing, where it helps evaluate interface design and ergonomic effectiveness; psychological research, to study attention and cognitive processes; and assistive technology, providing communication support for individuals with disabilities. In marketing, eye tracking is used to analyze consumer responses to advertisements, packaging, and product displays to optimize visual appeal.

Recent advances have improved the accuracy, sensitivity, and affordability of eye-tracking systems. They are increasingly integrated into virtual reality environments and mobile devices, enabling more natural interaction interfaces. Despite their varied uses, limitations such as sensitivity to lighting conditions and individual differences in eye anatomy can affect data quality.

Overall, eye trackers serve as valuable tools for understanding visual behavior and enhancing human-computer interaction, contributing to research, product development, and accessibility innovations.