N E W S L E T T E R FROM THE EDITOR S DESK. A Look at Eye Tracking Technology Speech Generating Devices With Eye Tracking Access...

(1)

VOLUME 20 - ISSUE 2 - APRIL 2011

TECHNOTALK

NEWSLETTER

A Look at Eye Tracking Technology ... 2

Speech Generating Devices

With Eye Tracking Access ... 6

Computers with Eye Tracking Access ... 11

This month we bring you a bumper extended edition of

TechnoTalk that has been a long time in the making. Several years ago we compiled a comparison of the eye tracking systems in the Australian market. Since that time, TASC has had steady interest in this technology from clients, families and therapists, and there have also been developments in the type and number of systems available in Australia. TASC has supported many clients to trial this technology in the last few years and over a 12 month period we have been steadily trialling as many systems as possible to compile a comparison of the features of these systems.

Eye tracking technology has great potential to enable access to assistive technology for people with complex physical disabilities. We hope this comparison and the article highlighting assessment considerations will assist you in working towards trialling a system and in choosing the most appropriate system to meet the user’s needs.

I would also like to introduce you to two new members to the TASC team. First of all, Diana Limbrey, speech pathologist, has joined us on a permanent basis following a part time secondment from Cerebral Palsy Alliance’s therapy services last year. Diana will continue to work across both services and brings with her a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm for assistive technology. Secondly, Lucy McCreery (nee Brown), occupational therapist, has joined us as a seating consultant. Lucy previously worked with Cerebral Palsy Alliance’s rural services in Wagga Wagga and has returned to Sydney after a stint in Perth working for The Centre for Cerebral Palsy. If you have any questions about any of the technology in the article, please feel free to contact TASC or the suppliers of each system.

Please note – as we were finishing this comparison we were notified by Spectronics of a new eye tracking system called the Tobii PCEye which can attach to any computer. Unfortunately we have not had time to review this and include it in this comparison. For more information, see http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/product/tobii-pceye-eye-control-for-pc

Happy Reading Liza

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Hi, my name is Lucy McCreery (nee Brown)

, and I am the

new Seating Consultant who has joined the TASC team! My

name may be a little familiar to some of you, as I previously

was a member of the wonderful Wagga team. Two years ago I

sadly left Wagga to move to Perth with my partner and work at

the Centre for Cerebral Palsy in their Early Intervention Program.

Within this role I really enjoyed seating and positioning with my

clients. I am very excited to have returned to this organisation,

with a new name “Cerebral Palsy Alliance” and within a new

team “TASC” and with many more skills to learn. I am already

really enjoying this new adventure and I ‘m looking forward to

meeting you all along the way.

L - R: Diana Limbrey and Lucy McCreery

Hello! I’m Diana Limbrey

and I’m pleased to join the TASC

team as a speech pathologist. I am employed here part time and

enjoy an even spread between my role at TASC and my role as

a local therapist within the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. I may have a

familiar face having worked at TASC over a short term in 2010

whilst my colleague was on maternity leave. I enjoyed it so much

that when an opportunity arose to return, I came back but this

time in a permanent capacity!

I am very much looking forward to being a member of the TASC

team.

(2)

TECHNOTALK

Explanation of terms:

Currently there is no agreed standardised terminology for the terms used in relation to eye gaze/tracking. For the purposes of this

article, TASC has defined and used the following terminology:

Eye gaze (or simply gaze) refers to the use of the eyes to point to a photo, symbol or object in the real world, on a page or on a

computer screen.

Eye tracking in Assistive Technology refers to a system that enables access to computers and Speech Generating Devices (SGDs).

Eye tracking or eye control is ‘high-tech’ eye gaze and should not be confused with ‘low-tech’ eye gaze, which is also called eye

pointing. Eye pointing refers to a person communicating, making choices and indicating by looking at words, symbols, pictures

or objects in the real world, as opposed to eye tracking which enables access to a computer.

For information on eye pointing, please contact TASC.

Background

“Eye tracking in assistive technology refers to the measurement of gaze (where are we looking) by a device

attached to a computer.” (COGAIN 2011)

Eye tracking systems can seem like the answer to the access issues of clients who have previously had difficulty accessing computers

and speech generating devices. Sometimes this is the case, but unfortunately, the people who are most in need of this technology

can also present the most challenges when trying to make eye tracking work.

Careful system selection, planning, goal setting, positioning, technical support and trial is essential to ensure that the user is able

to get the best possible outcome from using any eye tracking system.

In 2007, TASC completed a comparison of the eye tracking systems that were available at that time. Since then, there has been a

steady growth in the number of people using eye tracking and there have been some changes in the choice of systems that are

available on the Australian market. TASC has reviewed each available system and provided a summary of the information in the

following tables.

TASC has divided the currently available systems into two categories:

1. Integrated eye tracking systems

that will only work with a specific speech generating device

2. Stand-alone systems

that can be used across a broader range of software and hardware choices.

The purpose of this article is to assist people to understand more about eye tracking systems, to outline some principles of

assessment when looking at eye tracking and to provide detailed information about each system that will help people

feature-match the most appropriate system to meet the end user’s needs.

At the time of writing, most systems had a 6-12 month waiting time to trial for two weeks. For this reason, it is important that

careful preparation and consideration is given to the way that the eye tracking system will be used during the trial and careful

consideration should be made regarding which system to trial.

Eye tracking systems are very expensive and as a result, clear justification is required in order to apply for funding. In order to assist

with this justification and to ensure that you are ready for a trial of a device before one is arranged, please refer to the table on

the following page which details the functional skills and abilities which are recommended to be established prior to eye tracking

assessment and/or device trial.

(3)

TECHNOTALK

FUNCTIONAL

AREA

SKILLS/ABILITIES AND PREREQUISITES REQUIRED TO ACCESS EYE TRACKING

Physical

• Positioning - Prior to assessment of a person’s access to a computer, seating and/or positioning needs

should be addressed.

• Head support – Even for clients who have a supportive seating system, many clients may need a more

supportive headrest when using eye tracking systems to enable them to keep their head still and to reduce

fatigue. This should be addressed prior to the assessment where possible. As a minimum, some sort of

headrest should be in place for the assessment and trial.

• Assessment and comparison of alternative access options – Due to the significant cost of eye tracking

systems, in order to justify the recommendation as an access method, other access options should be

explored and compared e.g. head mouse, joystick (including mouth or chin joysticks) and switch access

should be considered and/or trialled prior to eye tracking.

• Access to an eye tracking selection method (blink, dwell or external switch) – In order to select items on

the computer or communication device, clients need to be able to control their blink OR hold their gaze

on a target for approximately 1 second OR be able to access an external switch.

• Fatigue tolerance – In order for someone to access eye tracking, they need to be able to maintain their

attention on the eye tracking and also maintain their position over time.

Cognitive

• The ability to clearly make choices using symbols or photos must be established prior to completing an eye

tracking trial or assessment. If a person cannot clearly and reliably choose between three or four

options using photos or symbols on a board by looking up, down, left and right, they are not ready

to trial eye tracking.

• The ability to follow instructions is required to complete the calibration stage of eye tracking use. This is

an essential step in accessing eye tracking and should be assessed by asking the client to track a pencil, or

picture that could be held by a therapist and moved through their field of view.

• Motivation to communicate and/or access functional activities on a computer is essential and must be

established before an assessment and before a device is trialled

• In order to functionally use eye tracking, a client requires sufficient attention to persevere with an activity.

In order to access eye tracking, TASC recommends that a person can maintain their attention on an

engaging activity for a minimum of 15 minutes.

Visual

• The ability to move eyes in a controlled manner up, down, left and right is generally thought essential for

functional eye tracking use. Although there are ways of designing eye tracking for people with gaze palsy,

careful consideration needs to be made about how much functional use will be able to be gleaned from

an eye tracking system.

• The user will need the ability to fix their gaze on a target long enough to access selection, whether this is

through blink, switch or dwell. Dwell selection usually requires fixation on a target for the longest period.

• Vision impairment does not exclude a person from using eye tracking; however they will need the ability

to identify visuals, letters or pictures on the screen of the device being considered. If a person has vision

impairment, a device with a larger screen may need to be considered.

Environmental

• Having an existing low-tech eye pointing system in use is necessary to ensure that there is a back-up if the

eye tracking system fails and also to demonstrate that the client is able to make choices and communicate

using eye pointing.

• A supportive therapy team is essential for successful trial and implementation of eye tracking systems

as there is usually a significant amount of support required during assessment and implementation.

Furthermore, in order to access funding for eye tracking through Enable (in NSW), the application must be

approved by both an Occupational Therapist and a Speech Pathologist.

• The physical environment that the device is to be used must be considered and the goals for the device

use must also be carefully set.

(4)

TECHNOTALK

ASSESSMENT CONSIDERATIONS

Assessing a client’s ability to use eye tracking as an access method can be difficult, especially for a therapist who has limited

experience in using an eye tracking system and/or limited experience in working with speech generating devices. There are many

considerations including clinical and technical issues that must be addressed in order to ensure that a valid and reliable assessment

of the client is able to be completed.

For general information and assistance on the process to follow when completing an eye tracking assessment, please see the

web-based resource from the COGAIN website:

http://www.cogain.org/w/images/5/5a/Assessment.pdf

TASC can provide a handout to support therapists should some specific information on step-by-step considerations for what to

consider in an eye tracking assessment be required. A thorough eye tracking assessment is essential when applying for funding as

clear assessment and clinical reasoning will be required in order for an eye tracking system to be funded.

WHAT IS ACCURACY WHEN TALKING ABOUT EYE TRACKING?

Generally, accuracy refers to the ability of the system to know where the eyes are actually looking. Accuracy of eye

tracking may be affected by the quality of calibration, vision issues, eye variations, background/ambient lighting (especially

incandescent bulbs and sunlight), head movement, the quality of the eye tracking system, and many other factors.

The accuracy of a system when used by each client should be investigated and tested by the therapist during assessment

and trial of eye tracking systems. It should be noted that there are ways of compensating for poor accuracy on

most systems, so contact a specialist technology service or the supplier of the system. Also refer to the resources at:

http://www.cogain.org/wiki/User_Involvement_Exemplars_Grids

BACK-UP ACCESS

As with most technology, eye tracking is not completely reliable as an access method and there are environmental factors (especially

sunlight), and technological difficulties (software and hardware failure) that will mean that the user may not always be able to

access their device or computer using their eye tracking system. TASC recommends that a back-up low-tech option is available

when eye tracking is used for the person to access communication and that an alternative computer access method is available for

those who use eye tracking to access a computer.

LEARNING HOW TO USE EYE TRACKING

Some users of eye tracking systems who have no difficulties with calibration, cognitive abilities within normal limits and who can

follow complex instructions are able to learn to use eye tracking for basic access to a communication grid within a single therapy

session, however for clients who have limited attention span, complex issues with their eyes, difficulty following instructions, and/

or cognitive impairment, they may take much longer to learn how to use eye tracking or they may have difficulty learning to use

eye tracking as a functional access method.

This process of teaching a client how to use eye tracking may not be possible in trial circumstances as it may require the availability

of an eye tracking system over a long period of time and the regular involvement of a therapist with experience in the teaching of

the skill of eye tracking. Loans of eye tracking systems are usually limited to two or four weeks and for some users, this may not be

sufficient time to establish whether they have the capacity to use a system functionally.

There is currently no research available regarding the age or level of cognition required to be able to functionally access eye

tracking, however, TASC has experience in implementing eye tracking systems with clients as young as three years old who have

been assessed as having a cognitive ability in the normal range.

Once the functional skills and prerequisites for eye tracking have been established and clear goals have been set, the following

table(s) can be used as a resource to match your client and their needs to the most suitable device. If you require support in this

feature-matching process, it is recommended to consult with a specialist assistive technology service. Suppliers of eye tracking

systems may also be able to assist.

(5)

TECHNOTALK

MOUNTING AND POSITIONING

Mounting of any device is important, but for eye tracking, it is essential. In order to maintain

accuracy of a system, it needs to be held still.

In order to enable a user to access all eye tracking systems that are currently available, the screen

of the system needs to be parallel to the plane of the user’s face and at eye level. Furthermore, the

system needs to be generally 50-60cm from the user’s face. For clients who are able to sit upright

and can access a desk, this means that mounting is fairly straightforward as the system can be set

up on a desk stand or desk clamp mounting arm.

For clients who need their eye tracking system to be portable, there are a number of significant

challenges for mounting. Firstly, the weight and required positioning of the device means that eye

tracking systems CANNOT be mounted on paediatric manual wheelchairs, strollers or any form of

walking or standing frame. Care should be taken and stability testing should be carried out when

attaching eye tracking systems to adult manual wheelchairs and paediatric powered wheelchairs

as there is a chance that the weight and position of the device when mounted to the chair could

compromise the balance and structure of the wheelchair. Careful attention needs to be paid to

weight limits of the wheelchair also.

Even when the device can be securely attached to a wheelchair, the stability is tested and the client

is able to use the device when it is attached to the wheelchair, careful monitoring needs to be

carried out on the mounting as significant strain can be placed on the mounting system over time.

TASC has known of several bolts in eye tracking mounting systems that have needed to be replaced

after a few months of use as they were at risk of failing.

For clients who want or need to access eye tracking in bed, when reclined or in a tilt-in-space posture, positioning a device can

be difficult (diagrams from ECOPoint Manual). For example, if a user is lying in bed, then the device needs to be mounted directly

above their head and (depending on the device) 40cm-60cm away from their face with the device tilted so that the screen faces

directly down. This position may not be able to be achieved with desk mounts or standard rolling or over-bed mounts.

SUMMARY

Due to the complexity of eye tracking systems and the considerations around calibration, mounting/positioning, portability,

language system, accuracy, lighting issues, selection methods, and user skill, it recommended that assessment and trial of any

eye tracking system is completed with the support of a person who is experienced in dealing with such a system. TASC can

provide support to therapists in NSW and ACT who are interested in looking at eye tracking with their clients either remotely and

consultatively or through specialist assessment.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The most common techniques used to track eye movements are called Pupil Centre Corneal Reflection (PCCR) or dark pupil

infrared illumination. These techniques are non-intrusive and both options use a light source to illuminate the eye enabling a

special camera to track the movements and positions of the eye. The illumination is near infrared and therefore unnoticeable

to the user but creates patterns on the cornea and/or pupil of the eye that can be tracked by image sensors that are used

to capture images of the eyes and the infrared patterns. A computer then uses advanced image processing algorithms

and a physiological 3D model of the eye to calculate the position of the eye in space and then estimate the point of gaze.

Adapted From

www.userfirst.com

(6)

TECHNOTALK

SPEECH GENERATING DEVICES WITH EYE TRACKING ACCESS

ECOpoint

EyeMax

MyTobii P10

CEye

Description

The ECOpoint enables eye tracking access to the Liberator-14 (no longer available, upgrade required to use eye tracking), ECO2 and Essence ECO2. The Liberator-14, ECO2 and Essence ECO2 are tablet computers / speech generating devices running Word Core, Unity and Essence language systems.

The DynaVox EyeMax enables eye tracking access to the Vmax (1GB RAM required) or Vmax+. The Vmax (old model, still available for sale at reduced price) and Vmax+ (latest model) are tablet computers / speech generating devices running DynaVox Series 5 software.

It is recommended by suppliers to use the Vmax+ High Performance with the EyeMax.

The My Tobii P10 is a fully integrated eye tracking tablet computer and speech generating device. The P10 can be packaged with the Tobii Communicator language system or can run other Windows software such as The Grid 2 (purchase separately).

The Tobii CEye enables eye tracking access to the Tobii C12 and C15. The C12 and C15 are tablet computers / speech generating devices running the Tobii Communicator (premium edition) language system. The devices also come with Sono Suite software or can run other Windows software such as The Grid 2 (additional cost or option).

System Specifications/Hardware

Operating System

Windows XP

The ECOpoint eye tracking unit has its own microprocessor to limit the system resources it draws from the device.

Windows XP Pro (Vmax) Windows 7 (Vmax+)

Windows XP Windows 7

The CEye has a micro-processor inside that runs independently to the device.

Hardware

Intel 1.6GHz Atom

processor 2GB RAM (ECO2) 1GB RAM (Essence ECO2) 60 GB HDD (solid state)

Vmax+ High Performance: Intel Atom 1.6GHz Dual Core processor 1GB RAM 160GB HDD Intel 1.5GHz processor 1GB RAM 80 GB HDD

Intel Core Duo U2500 processor

2GB RAM 60 GB HDD

Dimension

33.5 x 28.5 x 7.4cm 32 x 25 x 7.6cm 36 x 36.5 x 11cm 31.2 x 26.4 x 4.6cm C12

37 x 30 x 5.7cm C15

Screen Size

14.1 inch (35.8cm) 12.1 inch (30.7cm) 15 inch (38.1cm) 12.1 inch (30.8cm) C12 15 inch (38.1cm) C15

Weight

0.65kg ECOPoint 3.1kg ECO2/Essence ECO2 3.75kg total 1kg EyeMax 3.12kg Vmax/Vmax+ 4.12kg total 5.3 kg 0.7kg CEye 2.9kg C12 or 4.1kg C15 3.6 or 4.8kg total

(7)

TECHNOTALK

ECOpoint

EyeMax

MyTobii P10

CEye

System Specifications/Hardware (cont.)

Battery Life

Up to 6 hours of

continuous use.

ECOpoint runs off device battery and may shorten battery life.

Up to 6 hours continuous use.

EyeMax has own battery that needs charging as well as Vmax/Vmax+.

No internal battery 5 hours with standard battery.

CEye runs off device battery and may shorten battery life.

Speakers

Amplified speakers within the ECO2 / Essence ECO2

Amplified speakers within the Vmax/Vmax+.

Amplified speakers integrated in the P10 monitor.

Amplified speakers within the C12/C15.

Access and Calibration

Camera/Tracking

method

Video, dark pupil, infrared illumination. Two HD infrared cameras and two infrared LED arrays with over 50 LEDs in each array.

Video, dark pupil, infrared illumination. Single IR Camera and dual IR arrays.

Video, dark pupil, infrared illumination. Two built-in infrared cameras track a video image of eye movements. The P10 has four infra-red arrays, on each corner of the screen

Video, dark pupil, infrared illumination.

Track 1 or 2 eyes

(binocular)

Binocular or individual eye tracking.

Visual feedback of

eye image

Yes. Available in the “eye track status menu”. Can also be set to display in an optional sub menu window.

Yes. Available in “eye-track status” menu. Not able to always be displayed. Two lights on EyeMax indicate whether user is in range.

Yes. Eye track status can be set up as a floating window which appears over other applications and is always available in the calibration options.

Yes. Eye track status image not always displayed, but available in the calibration options.

Optimal working

position of system

Face must be 50-64cm from the device and within a box 35 × 32.5 ×20 cm (HxWxD)

Face must be 43-71cm from the device and within a box 15.2 × 23.9 × 27.9cm (HxWxD)

Face must be from 50-70cm from the device and within a box 15 × 30 × 20cm (HxWxD)

Face must be 50–70cm from the device and within a box 30 × 40 × 20cm (HxWxD)

Selection methods

• Blink • Dwell • Switch • Blink • Dwell • Dwell/Blink combined • Switch • Blink • Dwell • Switch • Blink • Dwell • Switch

Additional access

options

• Touch Screen • Mouse or mouse alternative • Switch Access (1 or 2 switches)

• Inbuilt head mouse (Tracker inside) – Additional cost • Touch Screen • Mouse or mouse alternative • Switch Access (1 or 2 switches) • Touch screen • Mouse or Mouse alternative

• Switch access (up to 4 switches) • Touch screen • Mouse or mouse alternative • Switch access (1 or 2 switches)

Calibration

(Number of

targets and

adjustability

of calibration

activity to user

needs)

Calibration is fixed at 5 targets; however target speed can be calibrated. The target image and size cannot be adjusted.

Number of targets: 5, 9, 16 (the more targets used in calibration, the better the quality of the calibration). Targets can be a picture or animated image. The picture can be set to move slowly (or quickly) between the calibration targets.

Number of targets: 2, 5, 9 (the more targets used in calibration, the better the quality of the calibration). Size of targets, target image and speed of target moving (fast or slow) between calibration points can all be adjusted.

(8)

TECHNOTALK

ECOpoint

EyeMax

MyTobii P10

CEye

Access and Calibration (cont.)

Ability to turn

eye tracking on/

off independently

and/or change

access method

User can pause and restart eye tracking by looking at a point off the top of the screen in the centre. Users can also swap access methods independently either through a programmed button or through the accessible menu.

The ECOpoint was the only eye tracking device with options menus that are easily accessible using eye tracking.

A button can be programmed on the device to enable the pausing of the eye tracking selection. A button can be programmed for swapping access methods.

Can be paused

independently by looking off the bottom of the screen. A button can be programmed for swapping access methods.

Can be paused

independently by looking off the bottom of the screen. A button can be programmed for swapping access methods

Tolerance to User/Environmental Condition

Tolerance to head

movement

Subjectively, the ECOpoint coped well with head movement once calibrated and accuracy was maintained with a broad range of head position changes within the optimal working position area.

Subjectively, the EyeMax appeared to have some difficulty in maintaining accuracy when the user’s head position changed, even within the optimum working position of the device. Some (able bodied) testers had difficulty achieving a good calibration score, which affected accuracy.

Subjectively, the P10 coped well with head movement and maintained accuracy very well once calibrated if the user moved, tilted or rotated their head within the large optimal working position area.

Subjectively, the CEye coped well with head movement and maintained accuracy very well once calibrated if the user moved, tilted or rotated their head within the large optimal working position area.

Tolerance to

ambient light/

sunlight*

Will not work outdoors. Sunlight through windows and incandescent bulbs will affect accuracy.

Reported to work well under varying light conditions. Testing indicates that it will not work outdoors on a bright day even in the shade. Sunlight through windows and incandescent bulbs will affect accuracy.

Tolerance to

glasses/contact

lenses

Reported to work well in most cases. Settings are available for Diopter strength of glasses to compensate (range 0-6).

Reported as variable. No specific setting available in options. Supplier reports that this device copes better with glasses than some others, in their experience.

Reported as variable. Settings available for adjustment to different lenses (including bifocals)

Reported as variable. Settings available for adjustment to different lenses (including bifocals). Supplier reports that in their experience, the CEye can struggle to pick up the eye through glasses.

Accommodation

to human eye

variations**

Reported to work well in most cases.

Reported to work well in most cases. Supplier has reported difficulties with nystagmus due to the very high sensitivity of the camera and sensors.

Reported to work well in most cases.

* All eye tracking systems can be affected by lighting such as strong sunlight or Incandescent lighting. ** Certain eye dysfunctions and eye movement disorders may make eye tracking impossible or very difficult.

References: 1. Spectronics Eye Gaze Comparison Chart: http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/article/eyegazetracking-system-comparison-chart. 2. COGAIN Website : www.cogain.org

(9)

TECHNOTALK

ECOpoint

EyeMax

MyTobii P10

CEye

Software Options

Communication

ECO2

• WordCore and Unity (Minspeak) 4, 8, 15, 45, 60, 84 and 144 locations • Picture Word Power /

Word Power (additional cost) Essence ECO2 • Essence (text-based) 60 and 84 locations • DynaVox Series 5 software including Gateway, InterAACt and Navigator • Boardmaker with Speaking Dynamically Pro • Tobii Communicator included

• Sono Suite page sets available as add-on • The Grid 2 (additional

cost)

• Boardmaker with Speaking Dynamically Pro (additional cost)

• Tobii Communicator included

• Sono Suite page sets included

• The Grid 2 (additional cost)

• Board maker with Speaking Dynamically Pro (additional cost)

Computer access

Direct mouse emulation using the same selection options as when accessing the communication page-sets. Double click and right click can be accessed via buttons in the communication software.Magnification (zoom) is available to assist with accuracy if required and there are settings to enable customisation of this. During testing, all users were able to select icons on the windows desktop without customisation of the system or windows display. ##

The ECO2 can also be set-up using a Bluetooth interface (extra cost) to access an external computer, so that the device with eye tracking becomes a keyboard and mouse to the external computer.

Available through inbuilt onscreen keyboards (customisation generally required).

Direct mouse emulation can be carried on to the desktop. There is a pop up toolbar within the latest version of the software for double click, right click and click and drag options. No zoom available. During testing, a number of users found the EyeMax difficult to use in order to access icons on the desktop of the device. ##. The Vmax and Vmax+ can be linked with an external computer via the AccessIT infrared or Bluetooth interface (extra cost) so that the device can be used as a keyboard and mouse to access the external computer.

Available through chosen software onscreen keyboards, e.g. Tobii Communicator/The Grid 2. Floating toolbar gives access to various mouse clicking. Magnification is also available to enhance accuracy when trying to click on small targets. During testing, users were able to access icons on the Windows desktop without any special customisation of the system or Windows display. ##

Available through chosen software onscreen keyboards, e.g. Tobii Communicator/The Grid 2. Floating toolbar gives access to various mouse clicking.

During testing, users were able to access icons on the Windows desktop without any special customisation of the system or Windows display. ##

Voices

Acapela DECtalk Australian RealSpeak (included) AT&T Acapela Australian RealSpeak (included) AT&T HQ DECtalk VeriVox Microsoft Acapela US Australian RealSpeak (additional cost) Acapela US Australian RealSpeak (additional cost)

Symbols

PCS (with Picture Word

Power) – additional cost Minspeak – (Unity)

PCS and DynaSyms SymbolStix SymbolStix

## Please note that variability between systems and users means that the results of our testing cannot always be applied to all people using these devices. TASC recommends that a device is trialled in the manner in which the client intends to use it, for at least 2 weeks before purchase is considered. Testing is based on a sample of only four users.

(10)

TECHNOTALK

ECOpoint

EyeMax

MyTobii P10

CEye

Additional Features

Environmental

control

Inbuilt in all models of ECO

Inbuilt into the DynaVox Vmax and Vmax+

Inbuilt GEWA or Tira module accessible through Tobii Communicator or The Grid 2

GEWA or Tira Inbuilt into the C12, accessible through Tobii Communicator or The Grid 2

Mounting/

Portability

• DaeSSy • REHAdapt • PRC: QRM2 • DaeSSy • REHAdapt • VESA • DaeSSy • REHAdapt • VESA

Due to the large size of the device, caution should be taken mounting the P10 on a wheelchair as it may occlude too much of the user’s vision to enable them to see their surroundings.

No internal battery.

• DaeSSy • REHAdapt • VESA

Due to the large size of the device, caution should be taken mounting the C15 on a wheelchair as it may occlude too much of the user’s vision to enable them to see their surroundings.

Other

Integrated Wi-Fi and

Bluetooth in the ECO2 No inbuilt Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in the Vmax (but these can be purchased separately and plugged in externally via USB).

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi standard in the VMax+.

No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth inbuilt (but these can be purchased separately and plugged in externally via USB).

Wired network (LAN) port is standard.

Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in C12/C15. Integrated desk stand.

Purchase/Trial

Approximate

price

Check with

supplier for

inclusions and

additional

accessories

ECOpoint $12,900 ECO2 $14,750 Essence ECO2 $13, 950 EyeMax $11,749 Vmax $7,000 (limited models left)

Vmax+ High performance $13,999

$23,680 - $25,380 CEye $10,325 Tobii C12 $12,905 Tobii C15 $13,430

Manufacturer

Prentke Romich Company www.prentrom.com. (Eye tracking system manufactured by Tobii Technology, but supported by PRC).

DynaVox Corporation www.dynavoxtech.com. (Eye tracking system manufactured by Tobii Technology but supported by DynaVox). Tobii Technology www.tobii.com/ Tobii Technology www.tobii.com/

Supplier

Liberator www.liberator.net.au Spectronics www.spectronicsinoz.com Spectronics www.spectronicsinoz.com Spectronics www.spectronicsinoz.com

Trial

Yes – Contact Liberator.

Free 2 week trial with additional weeks available at extra cost.

The user will need to cover the cost of return postage, which is usually between $50-$100.

Yes – Contact Spectronics. Free 2 week trial with additional weeks available at extra cost.

(11)

TECHNOTALK

COMPUTERS WITH EYE TRACKING ACCESS

IntelliGaze IG-30

EyeGaze Edge

TM4 Eye Tracker

(Quick Glance 4)

EyePro

Description

The IntelliGaze provides computer operation by eye gaze. The system can be connected to any computer or to a portable tablet computer such as the PowerBox 7, to provide eye gaze access for communication. The IntelliGaze has been designed to work on its own as a mouse alternative or to interface with The Grid 2. The system is reported to also work with Mind Express, although this was not tested by TASC.

The EyeGaze Edge is a tablet PC package that offers computer control using eye gaze. The system includes a range of inbuilt programs to enable eye gaze control of computer applications. The system can also be connected to a second computer (PC or Mac) and after installing a special SKeys utility can be used as an input interface (keyboard and mouse device) to the second computer.

The TM4 Eye Tracker is a separate tracking module that can be added to a Windows computer. It can also be purchased with a tablet PC ready for mounting on a wheelchair or desktop stand.

The EyePro enables eye gaze access to the Windows desktop, EZ Keys, Say-It! SAM, Mind Express and any PC based communication software such as The Grid 2. It can attach to a broad range of communication devices and almost any PC computer.

System Specifications/Hardware

Compatible

operating System

Windows XP/Vista/7 PowerBox 7 is Windows 7

Windows XP Windows 98/XP/Vista/7 Windows XP/Vista/7

Hardware

Depends on system.

PowerBox 7 is a Sahara Slate i400d Tablet with IntelCore Duo 2.0 GHz Processor, 2 GB RAM and 60 or 120 GB HDD

The EyeGaze Edge comes bundled with an Apple MacBook, running Windows software. 2.4GHz

2GB Ram

30GB Hard Disk Drive

Depends on system. No minimum processor speed is quoted by the manufacturers

Dimensions

Depends on system

PowerBox 7 31 x 23 x 7cm

32.5 cm x 23 cm x 3.5 cm (tablet only)

Depends on system Depends on system

Screen Size

Depends on system. Recommended for use on screens between 12” -19” PowerBox 7 is 12.1”

13.3” (33.8cm) Depends on system. Recommended for use with laptop computers with screen sizes up to 17” or a computer monitor or tablet PC up to 19”.

Depends on system. Can be used on screens from 12” to 21”.

Weight

1.2kg IntelliGaze IG-30

4.7kg with PowerBox 7 Tablet 3.696kg Other components 3.93 kg (Total 7.622 kg) 0.6kg TM4 Eye Tracker 3.5kg with tablet PC, tracking module and speakers

0.6kg EyePro Depends on system.

(12)

TECHNOTALK

IntelliGaze IG-30

EyeGaze Edge

TM4 Eye Tracker

(Quick Glance 4)

EyePro

System Specifications/Hardware (cont.)

Battery/Battery

Life

Tracking module is powered by device or computer system. Up to 8 hours use on the PowerBox 7

Up to 2 hours Depends on system. Tracking module is powered by computer system. Depends on system. Tracking module is powered by computer system.

Advertising material claims that this device is a “New technology low voltage USB camera”.

Speakers

Depends on system. The

PowerBox 7 comes with high quality amplified speakers.

Inbuilt in the tablet Depends on system Depends on system

Access and Calibration

Camera/Tracking

method

Hybrid infrared video eye-

and head-tracking Pupil centre/corneal reflection method. A lower power infrared LED emits light and illuminates the eye. An infrared sensitive video camera processes the image and the Edge calculates the person’s gaze point.

Video, dark pupil, infrared

illumination. Video, dark pupil, infrared illumination.

Track 1 or 2 eyes

(binocular)

Left or right individually, or both together or whichever the system recognises as the “best eye”.

Left or right individually or

both together. Can track one eye individually (left or right) OR left and/or right to set system to track either eye simultaneously OR left and right to set system to only track when it has both eyes in image.

One eye individually (left or right) OR both left and/ or right, (the system will track whichever eye it has the best tracking of) OR left and right to set system to only track when it has both eyes in image.

Visual feedback of

eye image

Live image available via keyboard shortcut. No live image available when using The Grid 2.

An eye image display appears in the top right corner of the control screen. This display includes a focus indicator and red/green colour alert to indicate where the user should move to restore good focus. The image display can be toggled on and off using F12.

Has live video image of eyes or eye position indicators.

Has live video image of eyes or eye position indicators. Both can be chosen and turned on and off.

Optimal working

position of system

600 mm distance) 300 x 200 x 200 mm (WxHxD) working field Subjectively, it was felt that there was a limited range of accuracy if the head was moved from front to back.

26” (65cm) is reported by the developers. Users should sit in front of screen with the top of the screen at eye level. Also reported that users with uncontrolled head movement may not find the system suitable as camera has limited field of view.

For distance can select: - 50-60cm

- 60-70cm - Other

Optimal height of unit is when eyes are in centre of image.

250 x 160 x 190 mm (WxHxD) working field

The distance of the eyes from the camera can be specified in a broad range that can be set by the user. (25cm and 90cm have both been tested.)

250 x 160 x 190 mm WxHxD working field.

(13)

TECHNOTALK

IntelliGaze IG-30

EyeGaze Edge

TM4 Eye Tracker

(Quick Glance 4)

EyePro

Access and Calibration (cont.)

Selection methods

• Blink

• Dwell

• Switch access is dependent on the device. The PowerBox 7 with The Grid 2 is capable of switch access.

• Dwell • Blink • Dwell

• Switch access is dependent on device. There are no switch ports included on the tablet that can be bundled with the TM4, but a switch adapted mouse can be used to enable switch selection when used with eye pointing. • Blink • Dwell • Switch access is dependent on device

Additional access

options

Depends on system. Depends on system. Depends on system. Depends on system.

Calibration

Calibration can be completed in The Grid 2 or in the IntelliGaze software. Different options are available for each. Using the IntelliGaze software, there are 1, 5, 9 or 16 points. The image size, image and speed can also be customised. The user can independently initiate calibration by fixing their eyes on the camera for 10 seconds. (Alt+F5 key press required alternatively). A carer or support person can set up the number of calibration points.

The Grid 2 allows selection of 1, 5, 9, or 16 calibration targets and allows a different target image to be displayed as well as a slow calibration, but the size of the target cannot be adjusted.

Some staff from TASC found it difficult to achieve a good calibration score in The Grid 2 when using the IntelliGaze, which significantly impacted accuracy. ##

The software allows adjustment between 5, 9 OR 13 target calibration. The background of the calibration can be set to white or black and the target dots are automatically adjusted in size depending on the number of calibration targets (maximum target size 1cm). Target image is always a yellow dot and cannot be adjusted. No information available on whether the speed can be adjusted.

The software displays 5, 9 or 16 targets on the screen. Using more targets increases calibration accuracy. The time that each calibration target is displayed can be adjusted but not the type or size of targets.

Depends which software is being accessed. Using the Words+ software (default) the user can independently access the calibration settings. Can be set up with 5, 9 or 16 point calibration and the calibration target time can be adjusted, but not the calibration image or size. See IntelliGaze IG-30 for information on settings for The Grid 2.

Ability to turn eye

tracking on/off

independently

Pause function can be set up in The Grid 2, but a specific cell must be dedicated to this. The user can access pause in Windows if the IntelliGaze software is running. The user cannot easily change access methods independently.

Information unavailable Yes – Off screen button can be made available

Yes – Off screen button can be made available

(14)

TECHNOTALK

IntelliGaze IG-30

EyeGaze Edge

TM4 Eye Tracker

(Quick Glance 4)

EyePro

Tolerance to User/Environmental Conditions

Tolerance to head

movement

In spite of the camera’s relatively large field of view, testing by TASC found that the IntelliGaze accuracy decreased significantly when the user moved their head, even when the device was able to continue tracking their eyes.

Not trialled. Testing by TASC showed that the camera on the TM4 has a small field of view, which meant that it was easy for the user to move their head out of the field of the tracking camera. Also, head movement seems to have a reasonably negative impact on the accuracy of selection.

Testing by TASC found that the EyePro accuracy declined when the user’s head moved out of the initial calibration position. Low calibration scores were achieved (resulting in poor accuracy) if the user’s head moved during calibration.

Tolerance to

ambient light/

sunlight*

Sunlight or incandescent lights can be a problem especially if located behind the monitor or user. Fluorescent lights are reported not to influence accuracy.

Will operate in environment with incandescent lighting though fluorescent lighting offers more accuracy. Not accurate in direct sunlight.

Sunlight or incandescent lights can be a problem especially if located behind the monitor or user. Fluorescent lights are reported not to interfere with accuracy.

Tolerance to

glasses/contact

lenses

No options for

compensation for glasses, although manufacturer information states that the system can automatically compensate.

Supplier reports that this system can accommodate glasses and contact lenses.

Bright reflections from lights on glasses close to the pupil can be problematic. Tilting glasses can assist. Some contact lenses (especially hard lenses) can cause tracker to ‘drift’ each time you blink because of lens floating in eye. Glasses can be the best solution.

Reported by the manufacturer to cope with glasses and contacts, although no customisation is available.

Accommodation

to human eye

variations**

No options for compensation or adjustment, however the system may accommodate for some issues.

Reported to be able to accommodate for a range of human eye variations including dry eyes, asymmetric pupils and droopy eyelids. Has special “droopy eyelid” software. Also offers an optional calibration that can accommodate for nystagmus.

Reported to work well in most cases. There is an inbuilt “smoothing factor” to accommodate for individual “wiggle” eye movements.

Reported to have tolerance for head movements. Also reported to cope with drooping eyelids and erratic eye movements.

Software Options

Communication

Specifically integrates with The Grid 2 and Mind Express.

Compatible with most Windows based AAC software.

Comes with inbuilt phrase program to access pre-programmed messages. Using the Eye Mouse or Simple Eye Mouse users can access other software programs such as Clicker 5 and Speaking Dynamically Pro.

Additionally, The Grid 2 (not included in purchase price) can be integrated with the EyeGaze and accessed through the menu. (All software

Compatible with most Windows based AAC software programs.

Integrates with The Grid 2 and compatible with most Windows based AAC software.

(15)

TECHNOTALK

IntelliGaze IG-30

EyeGaze Edge

TM4 Eye Tracker

(Quick Glance 4)

EyePro

Software Options (cont.)

Computer access

Works over Windows. The user can select dwell clicking options (left click, right click, double click, click and drag) from a menu that pops up when the user looks just to the left of the screen (although this menu is disabled if The Grid 2 is running). Testing by TASC found that some users had difficulty completing dwell selection on the desktop as the mouse cursor would “drift” while selections were trying to be made. ##

Simple word processing available on the EyeGaze Edge using an onscreen keyboard. Eye Mouse program can be used to provide mouse control (left click, right click, double click and click and drag) for Windows applications on the EyeGaze Edge tablet. Computer access program enables use of EyeGaze Edge as input interface to second computer.

Works with standard Windows applications and Windows compatible specialist software that can be accessed with a mouse. Testing showed that the TM4 had sufficient accuracy to perform standard mouse operations on the Windows desktop by most users ##

Works well in all versions of Windows tested. Different clicking options are also available in a customisable menu. Testing by TASC showed that the Eye Pro had a good level of accuracy to the point where small icons on the desktop and standard size scroll bars were able to be accessed using eye gaze by some users.##

Voices

Depends on software Depends on software Depends on software Depends on software

Symbols

Depends on software Depends on software Depends on software Depends on software

Additional Features

Environmental

control

Depends on system. The IntelliGaze is compatible with Windows based environmental control software. The PowerBox 7 has inbuilt ECU. Compatible with most computer-based environmental control programs. An additional environmental control device is required to send commands to infrared appliances, eg. Tira 2, Control Prog, Gewa Control Star/Micro. Compatible with most computer-based environmental control programs. An additional environmental control device is required to send commands to infrared appliances, eg. Tira 2, Control Prog, Gewa Control Star/Micro. Compatible with most computer-based environmental control programs. An additional environmental control device is required to send commands to infrared appliances, eg. Tira 2, Control Prog, Gewa Control Star/Micro.

Mounting/

Portability

IntelliGaze can be attached to most screens with a VESA-mount adapter.

Mounting interfaces with devices and computers will be dependent on each device. Discuss this with device and mounting suppliers.

• Desk mount included • A DaeSSy compatible

bracket is available Mounting interfaces with devices and computers will be dependent on each device. Discuss this with device and mounting suppliers.

• Laptop stand or monitor bracket included Mounting interfaces with devices and computers will be dependent on each device. Discuss this with device and mounting suppliers.

Brackets are available for attaching the EyePro (unit only).

Mounting interfaces with devices and computers will be dependent on each device. Discuss this with device and mounting suppliers.

Other

A zoom feature is available

for making selection of small targets within Windows more accessible, however this was felt to have limited functionality as only a small area of the screen would zoom and this meant repeated double selection was required.

PowerBox 7 has Integrated desk stand.

Contact supplier if you would like system set up as dedicated communication device. Offers stand alone Eye Switch utility to access cause and effect switch software on computer via 5” square eye gaze target.

Zoom feature for clicking on small objects. Ability to pause eye control if reading a lot of text or any other time when cursor control is not needed and restart when appropriate.

If using eye blink for selection user can cancel selection by opening eyes before single click time or after a set cancel time.

Zoom is available and can be used with all mouse functions. Eye control can be temporarily paused for a rest or when reading text on the screen.

(16)

Cerebral Palsy Alliance

321 Mona Vale Road Terrey Hills NSW 2084 T: 02 9479 7200 F: 02 9479 7233

TECHNOTALK

IntelliGaze IG-30

EyeGaze Edge

TM4 Eye Tracker

(Quick Glance 4)

EyePro

Purchase/Trial

Approximate

price

Check with

supplier for

inclusions and

additional

accessories

IntelliGaze IG-30 - including camera, power supply, VESA mount = $8,250

IntelliGaze IG-30 PowerBox 7 $17,250 including The Grid 2 with PCS and Australian RealSpeak voices, inbuilt ECU and mount plate.

EyeGaze Edge Tablet Package (includes tablet PC, EyeGaze Edge software, camera, adjustable monitor arm, table clamp and camera bracket. Keyboard with inbuilt mouse for assistant support) $21,750. EyeGaze Turn Key package $17,000

$9,000 for tracking module with brackets for mounting to a desktop computer monitor or tablet PC or a stand for resting on a laptop keyboard (computer extra).

$13,200 for tracking module, tablet PC with cordless keyboard and Ergotron Neoflex desktop mounting stand. The Grid 2 software approx $850.00. (Note: this is only one example of compatible communication software).

$9,450 including brackets for attachment to a monitor, tablet computer or laptop.

$19,550 for tracking module attached to a CONVERSA tablet with either SAM PC or EZ Keys XP (both with Australian RealSpeak Voices) plus a DaeSSy Vertical Desk Stand.

Manufacturer

Alea Technologies Germany

www.alea-technologies.de

LC Technologies, Inc.

www.eyegaze.com Eye Tech Digital Systems www.eyetechds.com/ Words+ www.words-plus.com

Supplier

Zyteq Australia

www.zyteq.com.au NovitaTech www.novitatech.org.au Technical Solutions www.tecsol.com.au Technability www.technability.com.au

Trial

Yes. Contact supplier.

Free 2 week loan available with client responsible for return shipping cost.

Yes. Contact supplier. Maximum two week trial. $60 per week. Contact supplier for freight charges.

Yes. Contact supplier. Therapist needs to be involved with trial. Trial period usually 2 weeks.

$250.00 deposit required (refunded when loan returned) and $60.00 postage fee. Client responsible for registered post return.

Yes. Contact supplier. Free 2 week loan available with client responsible for return shipping cost. Return postage is usually between $50 and $100.

## Please note that variability between systems and users means that the results of our testing cannot always be applied to all people using these devices. TASC recommends that a device is trialled in the manner which the client intends to use it, for at least 2 weeks before purchase is considered. Testing is based on a sample of only four users.