Development of EOG-based communication system controlled by eight-directional eye movements

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Assistive Technology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Individuals with severe motor paralysis and speech impairments face significant communication challenges.
• Existing assistive communication technologies may have limitations in speed, accuracy, or user-friendliness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel communication support interface controlled by eye movements and voluntary eye blinks.
• To enhance communication capabilities for disabled individuals with motor paralysis.

Main Methods:

• Electro-oculography (EOG) was employed, measuring horizontal and vertical eye movements using electrodes near the dominant eye.
• Signals were amplified with AC-coupling to minimize drift.
• A system was designed to interpret EOG signals into eight directional cursor movements and one selection operation via threshold settings.
• A projected screen keyboard was used for experimental evaluation.

Main Results:

• The developed communication interface demonstrated a processing speed of 12.1 letters per minute.
• The system achieved a high accuracy rate of 90.4% during experimental trials.
• The interface successfully translated eye movements and blinks into controllable cursor actions and selections.

Conclusions:

• The eye-controlled communication interface offers a viable and effective solution for individuals with speech and motor impairments.
• The system shows potential for improving the quality of life and independence of disabled users.
• Further research can optimize EOG signal processing for even faster and more accurate communication.