Indeed, driver monitoring systems come loaded with features and benefits. But, you will need to have an in-depth understanding of how driver monitoring systems work and learn how video telematics can strategically improve your fleet’s productivity and efficiency. In this post, we will focus on the technicalities of driver monitoring systems. We will discuss how DMS works, the insights it generates, and its applications, goals, and future. Let’s dive right into the content.
What do driver monitoring systems have?
A typical driver monitoring system will have two main components —
Camera and Sensor Setup
Cameras are key to an effective driver monitoring system. Therefore, it’s crucial to install high-definition cameras. The hardware must be coupled with advanced software to monitor the driver’s behaviors and generate alerts when signs of distraction, fatigue, and impairment are identified.
DMS typically incorporate inward-facing cameras installed in the vehicle’s cabin, aimed at the driver’s face and sometimes the eyes. These cameras capture images and video footage of the driver’s face and head movements. Some systems may also include sensors to detect other relevant parameters such as steering wheel movements, vehicle speed, and lane deviation.
GPS vehicle tracking
GPS vehicle tracking is an extension that provides managers and supervisors with information about the vehicle’s current location. Also, it ensures that the driver is using the correct and optimised predetermined route.
How driver monitoring systems work?
Driver monitoring systems (DMS) are sophisticated technologies designed to monitor and analyse the behaviour of drivers while they are operating a vehicle. These systems typically utilise various sensors, cameras, and algorithms to detect and interpret driver actions, attentiveness, and alertness. Here’s how driver monitoring systems work —
Face Detection and Tracking
The DMS software analyses the camera footage to detect and track the driver’s face in real-time. Advanced algorithms are used to accurately identify facial features and movements even under varying lighting conditions.
Attention Monitoring
The primary objective of DSM is to ensure that the driver remains attentive and focused on the task of driving. Therefore, the system continuously monitors for signs of drowsiness, distraction, or inattention. For instance, it may detect if the driver’s eyes are closing for extended periods, or if the driver is frequently looking away from the road. DMS can provide insights into the driver’s level of attention and focus while driving. This includes metrics such as the percentage of time spent with eyes on the road versus looking away, frequency and duration of distractions, and overall engagement with driving tasks.
Drowsiness Detection
DMS can analyse driver behaviour to detect signs of drowsiness or fatigue, such as slow eye movements, prolonged periods with eyes closed, or changes in a head position indicative of nodding off. These insights can help prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue.
Distraction Monitoring
DMS can identify distractions inside the vehicle that may divert the driver’s attention away from the road. This could include activities such as using a mobile phone, reaching for objects, eating or drinking, or interacting with passengers.
Driver Behavior Analysis
The system evaluates the driver’s behaviour and attentiveness by analysing various factors such as eye movement, head position, blinking frequency, facial expressions, and even physiological indicators like heart rate variability (in some advanced systems).
Alert Generation
If the system detects any concerning behaviour indicating potential driver distraction or fatigue, it can generate alerts to notify the driver. These alerts can be in the form of visual warnings displayed on the dashboard, auditory alerts, or haptic feedback such as seat vibrations.
Event Data Recording
In the event of a driving incident or collision, DMS can record relevant data leading up to the event, including driver behaviour, vehicle dynamics, and external factors. This information can be invaluable for accident reconstruction, liability assessment, and improving safety protocols. DMS often have the capability to record and store data regarding the driver’s behaviour over time. This data can be analysed later to identify patterns of risky behaviour, assess the effectiveness of the system, and improve fleet driver performance.
Eye Tracking Analysis
Some DMS incorporate eye-tracking technology to monitor where the driver is looking while driving. Insights from eye tracking can include gaze patterns, fixation duration on specific objects or areas of the road, and scanning behaviour to assess situational awareness.
Driver Behavioral Patterns
By analysing data collected over time, DMS can identify recurring behavioural patterns and trends in driver behaviour. This could include time-of-day effects on attention and fatigue levels, changes in behaviour in response to environmental factors, or variations between individual drivers.
Driver scorecards
DMS can generate insights related to driving performance, such as the smoothness of steering inputs, consistency of speed control, adherence to lane markings, and compliance with traffic laws. These metrics can help identify areas for improvement in driver skills and habits. Drivers need to know if their performance is up to mark in terms of efficiency and productivity. To enable this, a driver monitoring system is coupled with driver scorecards that rate them on several factors. To sum up, a driver scorecard helps prevent high-risk behaviour.
Driver Feedback and Coaching
Based on the insights gathered, DMS can provide real-time feedback to the driver, alerting them to potential risks or areas for improvement. This feedback can take the form of audible alerts, visual warnings, or haptic feedback to prompt corrective action.
Integration with Vehicle Systems
In many cases, DMS is integrated with other safety systems in the vehicle, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision avoidance systems. This integration allows for more comprehensive safety features and coordinated responses in critical situations.
Why do you need a driver monitoring system?
There are several reasons why installing a driver monitoring system (DMS) in vehicles can be advantageous:
Enhanced Safety
One of the primary reasons for installing a DMS is to improve road safety. By continuously monitoring the driver’s behaviour and attentiveness, the system can alert the driver to potential hazards or distractions, helping to prevent accidents caused by factors such as drowsiness, distraction, or impairment.
Accident Prevention
DMS can help prevent accidents by alerting drivers when they are exhibiting risky behaviour such as drowsiness, distraction, or aggressive driving. By providing timely warnings, the system gives drivers the opportunity to correct their behaviour and avoid potential collisions.
Reduced Fatalities and Injuries
By mitigating the risk of accidents, DMS has the potential to reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on the road. Even a momentary lapse in attention or a brief period of drowsiness can have serious consequences, and Driver Monitoring Software can help minimise these risks.
Compliance with Regulations
In some regions, there are regulations mandating the installation of certain safety features in vehicles, including driver monitoring systems. By installing DMS, vehicle manufacturers can ensure compliance with these regulations and avoid penalties or legal issues.
Insurance Benefits
Some insurance companies offer discounts or incentives for vehicles equipped with advanced safety features such as DMS. By installing these systems, vehicle owners may be able to reduce their insurance premiums and save money over time.
Improved Fleet Management
For businesses that operate fleets of vehicles, driver management systems can be particularly valuable for monitoring driver behaviour and improving overall fleet safety. By identifying risky driving habits and providing feedback to drivers, DMS can help companies reduce accidents, vehicle downtime, and maintenance costs.
Enhanced User Experience
In addition to safety benefits, DMS can also contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. For example, some systems can adjust vehicle settings based on the driver’s preferences or provide personalised feedback to help drivers improve their driving habits.
Helps with Driver Exoneration
Lastly, the driver monitoring system will allow fleet managers and business owners to successfully fight off false litigation through driver behavior mapping. In this, the driver behavior can be mapped to the moment of on-road events to showcase drivers’ attentiveness.
Article you might be interested in How to Overcome Fleet Driver Fatigue Strategically?
Invest in FleetRobo Video Telematics solution
Now that you are well-acquainted with how driver monitoring systems work, how do you plan to implement it across your fleet? Don’t sweat, all you need to do is connect with our telematics expert and learn how FleetRobo’s video telematics solutions help elevate your fleet management operations. With the technology discussed above, we provide you with the following alerts —
- Phone usage alert
- Smoking alert
- Fatigue alert
- Distraction alert, drowsiness, and attention
- Driver abnormal alert
- Equipment occlusion
- Driver identification/absence alert
- Driver yawn alert
- Driver sleep alert
- Camera block alert
- Seatbelt alert, and more.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s hop on a call and make sure your company reaps the benefits of the best driver monitoring system in the market.
