Using Cockpit Interactions for Implicit Eye-Tracking Calibration in a Flight Simulator

We introduce a method for calibrating an eye-tracking system using pilot interactions in a cockpit setting. While previous studies have shown the feasibility of implicit calibration with specific types of interactions, such as mouse clicks or smooth pursuit eye movements, real-world applications often involve a combination of different interaction methods. To address this challenge, we have developed a method that integrates multiple types of interactions to enable implicit calibration in operational work environments. By selecting appropriate calibration candidates and employing an algorithm to choose suitable samples, an eye-tracking system can be implicitly calibrated during operation. We conducted an evaluation of our approach in an aircraft cockpit simulator, involving seven pilot candidates. The results demonstrate a median accuracy ranging from 2° to 4° on various cockpit displays, with variations observed among participants due to individual factors such as experience.