The emergence of CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, & Electric) vehicles worldwide, remarkable technological innovations in the automotive sector, the growing integration of ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) in many vehicles, and the active focus of governments on minimizing road accidents & injuries have elevated the adoption of DMS (Driver Monitoring Systems) in the past few years. These systems comprise two or more cameras that monitor the drivers' eyes and raise the alarm for associated dangers.
These systems comprise two or more cameras that monitor the drivers' eyes, alert them when they detect signs of drowsiness or distraction, and thus help combat road accidents, especially during long-distance & night driving. As these systems undergo further advancements, they'll incorporate intensive interior sensing operations that could deliver personalization, improved safety, and integration with smart home systems. A recent research study by MarkNtel Advisors has cited that the Global Automotive Driver Monitoring System Market is set to register around 12% CAGR during 2023-28, which would be propelled mainly by ever-increasing road traffic injuries worldwide influenced by distracted or drunk driving.
Why these systems are the Next Big Thing?
Nowadays, vehicles, especially semi-autonomous cars, want drivers to think fast when they aren't attentive. In the future, these vehicles will depend on a system to know that the drivers are ready to take control in various situations. Thus, it is vital to have a solution like DMS that can supervise the driver, analyze behind-the-wheel performance, and deliver the required level of safety & efficiency.
As road accidents are rapidly rising worldwide, DMS is becoming highly important. Looking at this surge, several countries across different regions worldwide are actively working on road safety laws & regulations that can help reduce road traffic injuries. Europe tops the chart in ensuring road safety for its people and has recognized DMS as a prime safety feature in vehicles. Euro NCAP “envisages an incentive for DMS that effectively detect impaired & distracted driving, give appropriate warning, and take effective action.
On the other hand, the US has also started taking measures toward road & driver safety. SAFE (Stay Aware for Everyone) Act was recently implemented to reduce accidents & improve automotive safety. It recommends that the US Department of Transportation conduct research on driver monitoring systems and mandate their installations in all passenger cars in order to reduce accidents, driver disengagement, & driver complacency due to automation.
Moving Ahead
In the future, the prime focus of the automotive industry will be on developing more active, reliable, & accurate camera-based DMS. Through eye tracking & behavioral monitoring, these systems will be able to identify in real-time if the driver is distracted, tired, or driving unsafe and would serve various functions simultaneously, such as driver assessment, drowsiness & inattention detection, and even taking over controls when necessary.
Moreover, advanced DMS powered by AI will help vehicles adapt to environmental conditions, keep drivers comfortable, and ensure they are vigilant by detecting drowsiness and adjusting cabin lighting & temperature accordingly. In addition, they will also be able to detect drivers’ anger to allow for interventions and have route alternatives in order to prevent road rage. However, until these advancements, the current guidelines from authorities and the mounting awareness among people about road safety will continue to spur growth in the automotive driver management system market over the coming years.
