Man-machine Interaction System for the Paraplegics using Eye-Tracking Technique

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VI, Issue X, October 2019 | ISSN 2321–2705

Man-machine Interaction System for the Paraplegics using Eye-Tracking Technique

F. O. Aranuwa^1*, M.A. Busari², A.O. Ige³, J.E. Efiong⁴

^1,2,3 Department of Computer Science, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba–Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria
⁴Wesley University, Ondo City, Ondo, Nigeria
*Corresponding author

Abstract – Over the years, the paraplegics have relatively found it difficult using computer systems as a result of their physical conditions, especially in Sub-Sahara Africa. They have been solely relying on third party to achieve any form of computer interactions. Meanwhile, researchers at different levels have proposed and use of different mechanisms such as: electroculogram (EOG), videooculography (VOG), video-based infrared (VIR) and sclera search coil methods overtime to assist the paraplegics. However, studies have shown that these approaches are not efficient as they were mono-directional and require other aids to complete their actions. Additionally, most of the aids are not affordable and could be dangerous to human health. Therefore, this work presents a man-machine interaction mechanism using quadrilateral eye-tracking technique, involving 3-tier eye-gaze algorithm to enhance paraplegics’ interactions with any system. The pupil-center/corneal reflection method was used to determine where the user is looking on the screen. A window based system interface platform was developed and implemented on visual C# with camcorder integrated to monitor the movement of the user’s eye. The system was effectively demonstrated and enabled user to read, type and make phone calls. The approach was found to be more robust when compared with existing methodologies in terms of efficiency, flexibility and time taken to process an action. Based on the good performance of the system, it is therefore recommended that the Federal government of Nigeria will sustain this development to assist the paraplegics in the country.

Keywords: Paraplegics, HCI, electroculogram, videooculography, human health, haptic sensors

I. INTRODUCTION

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is a recent paradigm in computing that is rapidly gaining scientific attention in research and development. As reported in [1], the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) defines HCI as a discipline concerned with the design, evaluation and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use, and with the study of major phenomena surrounding them. The central theme of HCI focuses on human and machine interactions through a faster, natural, more convenient and less sequential means.

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