Abstract: Objects associated with eye fixations are used to support training tasks that are characterized by operation within a dynamic 3D environment, problem-solving that involves user multitasking, short decision time periods, heavy workloads, potential for unexpected events, and the need for high-performance skills. The invention is ideally suited to measure the nuances associated with maintaining situation awareness in such problems where dynamic 3D environments that support problem solving with high cognitive fidelity have already been developed. Potential training application areas include urban warfighting, night vision goggle use, aircraft piloting, helicopter operation, remote control of vehicles and robots, night driving, and air traffic control.

Abstract: An estimate of random error in an eye-tracking system is done directly from eye-tracker outputs during a trial, without the need for an explicit calibration process. The distances traveled between adjacent user observations are computed, and the random error ?r of the eye-tracker system is estimated using the statistical distribution of the computed distances. In the preferred embodiment, the distances traveled between adjacent observations is sampled on a continuous basis. The process includes measuring the mode (peak value) of the distribution in observation distances. These values are sorted by increasing distance, and a window of about 50 observations is used to estimate the mode of the distance distribution. A running estimate of the mode is computed, and the result is divided by a constant. A preferred constant of 1.61 was derived using a series of Monte Carlo simulations.

Abstract: A system for detecting and recording eye-tracking data by presenting to an observer a display image with an area in focus surrounded by blurred areas. The observer may shift the focus area within the image by head movements which are wirelessly transmitted to a receiver and used to modify the displayed image. This system solves that part of the eye-tracking problem that is most critical for measuring cognitive processes.

Abstract: The singlet delta energy levels of molecular oxygen (SDO) are generated to enhance the performance of internal-combustion engines, diesel engines in particular. In the preferred embodiments, this control takes place just prior to, and in the initial stages of, fuel injection. The SDO can be generated using different methods according to the invention, including thermal means, optical/laser energy, electrical/electromagnetic excitation, or a combination of these approaches. SDO may also be generated through reactions of a chemical fuel additive or a laser-excited chemical additive. A system for improving the performance of an internal combustion engine according to the invention includes a source or energy operative to generate singlet delta oxygen (SDO) from molecular oxygen, and apparatus for mixing the SDO with fuel prior to, or during, combustion. In the preferred embodiment, the SDO is delivered with air through an air-intake port, and a laser is used in a multi-pass absorption cell.

Abstract: A resonant spectrophone system has a laser arranged to direct a laser beam into a chamber containing gas to be analyzed wherein absorption data relative to the gas constituents is obtained by detecting pressure variations within the chamber. The laser is operated such that the laser beam passing through the chamber generates a resonant wave therein. Pressure variations within the chamber are monitored at locations corresponding to nodal and/or peak points of the resonant wave. The nodal point signals represent background noise and are subtracted from the peak point signals to remove noise components from the peak point signals or out-of-phase nodal signals are subtracted to perform this function and thereby yield signals which more accurately represent the absorption data relative to the gas constituents.