Ams introduces a driver Condition Monitoring System (DMS) solution based on 3D technology

     Ams Semiconductor, the world's leading provider of high-performance sensor solutions, has introduced a demonstration model of a driver Condition Monitoring System (DMS) based on 3D recognition and eye tracking technology for detecting driver fatigue and distraction. Automotive manufacturers can use this demonstration model to create proof-of-concept designs. Driver fatigue and distraction monitoring are essential technologies for assisted and autonomous driving, and their performance far exceeds that of similar solutions based on 2D technology today. Not only that, AMS '3D optical sensing technology can also build a "depth map" of the driver's head and analyze the driver's unique facial features through the "depth map" to identify the driver.

     Firat Sarialtun, in-cabin sensing Business Unit manager at AMS, said: "The automotive industry has been actively evaluating the use of 3D optical sensing technology for driver condition monitoring because 3D technology can provide more accurate and reliable information about the position and movement of the driver's head and eyes than 2D technology. "Now, by developing an eye-tracking 3D demonstration system, AMS and Eyeware have shown the industry how to integrate 3D sensing hardware and eye-tracking software to provide a reliable way to monitor fatigue and distraction issues."

     Bastjan Prenaj, co-founder and Chief Business Development Officer, Eyeware, said: "Driver condition monitoring is expected to make an important contribution to improving road safety, which means that the systems and components used in DMS must be extremely reliable. "This is a key advantage of Eyeware software: Combined with AMS '3D sensing technology, Eyeware software works in all lighting and usage conditions and provides accurate data that Oems can use to build applications such as fatigue alerts."

     A demonstration model based on active stereovision (ASV) provides accurate automotive cockpit monitoring.The demonstration model is based on ASV technology and uses AMS flooding and lattice illuminators to provide stable lighting that effectively resists sunlight and light interference reflected by sunglasses. Complemented by Eyeware Tech SA's advanced eye tracking software, it uses proprietary algorithms to analyze depth maps of the driver's eye and head posture to calculate the driver's eye direction in real time.

     When developing driver and cockpit monitoring systems, designers can use the output of this demonstration model to build sophisticated safety features that monitor if a driver is fatigued. 3D images and 3D head pose prediction support accurate monitoring of "dozing" problems, enabling timely detection of driver fatigue that is not recognized by 2D systems. DMS can also monitor if drivers are taking their eyes off the road - for example, checking mobile phone text messages, which is a major cause of road accidents.

     The 3D DMS demonstration model also supports a next-generation head-up display (HUD) that monitors the driver's eye direction to control directional projection of information on the windshield, advancing augmented reality-based in-car visualization applications. The demonstration system is based on AMS 'Active stereoscopic Vision Evaluation Suite, using AMS' face image processing library and Eyeware's eye tracking software. Customers can use Eyeware's dedicated software development kit, which is fully compatible with AMS '3D sensing components.