Drowsydriving

Researchers at Washington State University (WSU) Spokane have developed a new technology for improved drowsy driver detection.

The university’s patented technology is based on steering wheel movements, which are more variable in the case of drowsy drivers.

WSU Sleep and Performance Research Center research professor Hans Van Dongen said: "Video-based systems that use cameras to detect when a car is drifting out of its lane are cumbersome and expensive.

"Our invention provides an inexpensive and user-friendly technology that overcomes these limitations and can help catch fatigue earlier, well before accidents are likely to happen."

Researchers analysed data from two laboratory tests conducted at WSU Spokane.

The experiments involved 29 participants who were on a simulated ten-day night shift schedule, which resulted in moderate levels of fatigue, as assessed by their performance on a widely used alertness test known as the psychomotor vigilance task (PVT).

During each night shift, participants spent four 30-minute sessions on a high-fidelity driving simulator, which collected data for 87 different metrics related to speed, acceleration, steering, lane position and other factors.

"Our invention provides a solid basis for the development of an early detection system for moderate driver drowsiness."

As per the data analysis, the two factors that best predicted fatigue were changes in steering wheel movements and variability in lane position.

Researchers then showed that data on steering wheel variability can be used to predict variability in lane position early on, facilitating detection of driver drowsiness before the car drifts out of its lane.

Van Dongen added: "Our invention provides a solid basis for the development of an early detection system for moderate driver drowsiness.

"It could also be combined with existing systems to extend their functionality in detecting severe driver drowsiness."

The system uses inexpensive, easy-to-install parts, such as a sensor that measures the position of the steering wheel, and can be included as part of a factory installation or as an aftermarket accessory.

Image: The new system is based on steering wheel movements, which are more variable in the case of drowsy drivers. Photo: courtesy of Washington State University.