How it works: Integrated driver and occupant monitoring

The way consumers interact with vehicles is changing, and as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) become more prevalent, it’s important to make sure that drivers and the other occupants of a vehicle aren’t distracted. This is why technologies that keep a watchful eye on those in the cabin are being increasingly integrated into vehicles. And while that’s initially being done by ensuring that hands are kept on the steering wheel, new technologies are taking a more involved approach. One example is Tier One supplier Magna’s Integrated Driver and Occupant Monitoring System.

The technology combines a camera and intelligent electronics, which are integrated into the rear view mirror to detect signs of distracted behaviour, drowsiness and fatigue.

Smile, you’re on camera

The Magna system reduces packaging complexities by fully integrating a high-resolution camera, infrared emitters and an electronic control unit into the interior mirror. One of its unique features is the camera, which is hidden behind the mirror glass and provides both packaging and styling improvements compared to existing solutions.

Advanced software monitors the driver’s head, eye and body movements, and can not only monitor the driver but also the activities and presence of other occupants in the vehicle.

“Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents globally, so many markets are making driver monitoring a standard safety technology,” explains John O’Hara, president of Magna Electronics and Magna Mechatronics, Mirrors and Lighting.

Location location location

The advantage of Magna’s monitoring system is its central, unobstructed location high on the windscreen, which provides an optimal view of the driver and front-seat

passenger, as well as secondhand third-row occupants. This allows the monitoring of the driver and a vehicle’s other occupants with a single camera.

“Our driver monitoring system opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to integration with other ADAS vehicle technologies,” says O’Hara. “This lends itself to

new mobility concepts such as authentication for ride sharing, helping to improve safety, comfort and convenience for all who share the road.” The technology is pencilled in to be on the road in 2024, so it won’t be long until it ends up in your workshop.

This is an edited version of the feature from IMI's new MotorPro magazine, received free as part of IMI membership.