Contact Lens as Computing Interface
Introduction The study of human-computer interaction (HCI) strives to understand and evolve how people interact with computers in order to develop systems that are more usable and more responsive to a user’s actual needs. One important aspect of this field is the design of interfaces, best exemplified by the keyboard and the mouse, and the search for novel approaches for interfacing with computers. For instance, eye tracking and gaze tracking offer many exciting interface possibilities, but these systems are either prohibitively expensive or not robust enough for consumer use. However, advances in this technology could revolutionize how humans interact with computers. Technology Description Professor Parviz at the University of Washington has developed a computing interface that incorporates a contact lens with an embedded vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL)to mark the user’s gaze on the screen. Then, both an accompany pair of glasses with an attached infrared camera and a wireless transceiver process the data and correlate it with screen location for pointer-like control. Additional functionality, such as power and scrolling can be correlated to specific eye movements or blinking. Business Opportunity The ability to utilize a person’s gaze to interact with computers presents opportunities in computing for a wide array of applications. This technology is accessible to consumers, and it could replace current mouse functionality. The gaming industry would especially benefit from this technology for its ability to create a more immersive atmosphere and leave hands free for other functionality. Even drafting, web design, and simple web navigation could accommodate deeper levels of user immersion. Increasingly sophisticated studies in ophthalmology, neurology, psychology, advertising, and marketing could also be developed. Stage of Development A working prototype of this technology is in development. Intellectual Property Position The UW is currently reviewing this technology for worldwide patent protection.
Type of Offer: Licensing
« More Computer Science Patents