Open AccessImproved eye-fixation detection using polarization-modulated retinal birefringence scanning, immune to corneal birefringence
Author(s) -
Kristina Irsch,
Boris I. Gramatikov,
Yikai Wu,
David L. Guyton
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.22.007972
Subject(s) - birefringence , optics , foveal , fixation (population genetics) , polarization (electrochemistry) , human eye , retinal , materials science , population , computer science , ophthalmology , physics , medicine , chemistry , environmental health
We present an improved method for remote eye-fixation detection, using a polarization-modulated approach to retinal birefringence scanning (RBS), without the need for individual calibration or separate background measurements and essentially independent of corneal birefringence. Polarization-modulated RBS detects polarization changes generated in modulated polarized light passing through a unique pattern of nerve fibers identifying and defining the retinal region where fixation occurs (the fovea). A proof-of-concept demonstration in human eyes suggests that polarization-modulated RBS has the potential to reliably detect true foveal fixation on a specified point with an accuracy of at least ± 0.75°, and that it can be applied to the general population, including individuals with sub-optimal eyes and young children, where early diagnosis of visual problems can be critical. As could be employed in an eye-controlled display or in other devices, polarization-modulated RBS also enables and paves the way for new and reliable eye-fixation-evoked human-machine interfaces.