The Exploration of Large Image Spaces by Gaze Control

We describe methods for navigating large variable resolution images primarily using eye gaze control. In many professions a user’s task involves inspecting very large image spaces at a level of granularity ranging from an overview mode to study of fine detail. Such images are becoming commonplace, for instance: maps (e.g. Google Maps), earth imaging (Google Earth, NASA World Wind1), surveillance footage, architectural plans, astronomical images and medical images. Traditionally the navigation – i.e. pan and zoom – of such images has been achieved by well-established means of interaction such as mouse control. We explore the use of eye-gaze – possibly in conjunction with other forms of interaction – to control the actions of panning and zooming in the context of navigating or exploring very large images.