Developed by German engineering firm Hoffman and Krippner in collaboratoin with Guttersberg Consulting, this smart steering wheel tracks drivers' grip in order to detect fatigue.
The technology is based on the observation that when people are alert while driving, they apply constant pressure to the wheel and move their hands along it whilst if they fall asleep, their pressure lessens and their hands don't move as much.
The device features a strip of sensors applied to the inside rim of the existing steering wheel. A microprocessor keeps track of the intensity and frequency of contact, and alerts drivers to regain focus and pull over if they are overly fatigued.
This smart steering wheel will help tackle the epidemic of distracted driving which claims far too many lives.
Drowsiness-Detecting Steering Wheels
This Smart Steering Wheel Alerts Drivers When They're Drowsy
Trend Themes
1. Drowsiness-detecting Technology - The development of smart steering wheels that track drivers' grip to detect fatigue presents opportunities for implementing drowsiness-detecting technology in other industries, such as wearable devices and smart home systems.
2. Driver Monitoring Systems - The integration of sensors and microprocessors in steering wheels to monitor driver alertness opens up potential for disruptive innovation in the automotive industry, particularly in the development of advanced driver monitoring systems.
3. Safety Technology in Transportation - The use of sensor-equipped steering wheels to alert drivers of drowsiness highlights the need for implementing safety technology advancements in various transportation industries, including commercial aviation and public transportation.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The automotive industry can capitalize on the development of drowsiness-detecting steering wheels by integrating similar technology into other vehicle components, such as seats or door handles, to enhance driver safety.
2. Wearable Technology - The integration of drowsiness-detecting technology from smart steering wheels into wearable devices, like smartwatches or fitness trackers, creates opportunities for improving user safety and well-being.
3. Smart Home - The application of grip-tracking technology from smart steering wheels to smart home systems, such as door locks or appliances, offers the potential for enhancing security and preventing accidents.