Drowsiness detection system
US6822573B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 21, 2003 |
| Grant date | Nov 23, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 21, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG08B21/06
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This invention describes a non-intrusive system used to determine if the driver of a vehicle is drowsy and at risk of falling asleep at the wheel due to drowsiness. The system consists of two different drowsiness detection systems and a control unit. This redundancy reduces the risk of a false drowsiness assessment. The first subsystem consists of an array of sensors, mounted in the vehicle headliner and seat, which detects head movements that are indicative characteristics of a drowsy driver. The second subsystem consists of heart rate monitoring sensors placed in the steering wheel. The control unit is used to analyze the sensory data and determine the driver's drowsiness state and therefore corresponding risk of falling asleep while driving. Through sensory fusion, intelligent software algorithms, and the data provided by the sensors, the system monitors driver characteristics that may indicate a drowsy driver. If the driver is found to be drowsy, a signal is outputted which may be used to activate a response system. This system is not limited to automobiles; this system may be used in any type of vehicle, including aircrafts, trains and boats.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.