Taxonomic study of polynomial regressions applied to the calibration of video-oculographic systems

Of gaze tracking techniques, video-oculography (VOG) is one of the most attractive because of its versatility and simplicity. VOG systems based on general purpose mapping methods use simple polynomial expressions to estimate a user's point of regard. Although the behaviour of such systems is generally acceptable, a detailed study of the calibration process is needed to facilitate progress in improving accuracy and tolerance to user head movement. To date, there has been no thorough comparative study of how mapping equations affect final system response. After developing a taxonomic classification of calibration functions, we examine over 400,000 models and evaluate the validity of several conventional assumptions. The rigorous experimental procedure employed enabled us to optimize the calibration process for a real VOG gaze tracking system and, thereby, halve the calibration time without detrimental effect on accuracy or tolerance to head movement.