System and method for improving operator attention through systematic positive augmentation
By analyzing sensor data, it provides personalized positive feedback, which solves the problem that existing systems cannot improve operator attention, and realizes the continuous improvement of operator attention and the application of reward mechanisms.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202410317314.8
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-02-14
- Filing Date
- 2024-03-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-15
AI Technical Summary
The existing driver monitoring system can only issue warnings when the operator is distracted and cannot effectively improve or maintain the operator's attention.
By analyzing sensor data, the operator's alertness is determined, and positive reinforcement feedback is provided from the first to third levels, including audible prompt sounds, cheers, and redeemed points, etc., and the feedback intensity is adjusted according to the operator's attention duration and distraction events.
Effectively improve and maintain the operator's attention, increase the operator's attention duration through personalized positive feedback, and use the reward mechanism to improve the operator's attention concentration.
Smart Images
Figure CN120482084A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to mitigating operator distraction in a motor vehicle and, more particularly, to a system and method for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement. Background Art
[0002] Modern vehicles are equipped with driver monitoring systems (DMS) that are designed to detect when an operator becomes drowsy, distracted, or generally lacks awareness while operating the vehicle. As is well known, such systems include in-vehicle sensors, such as image cameras, focused on the vehicle operator to capture images of operator characteristics that indicate a state of operator distraction. Such operator characteristics may include the position, orientation, and movement of the operator's head, eye position and gaze, and eye data. For example, the DMS may be configured to monitor the operator's eyelid movement and determine when the operator is experiencing a state of drowsiness. When the operator is determined to be drowsy, the DMS may warn the operator in the form of a visual warning (such as a flashing warning light), an auditory warning (such as a warning sound), and / or a tactile warning by vibrating a vehicle component (such as the steering wheel or seat).
[0003] While the DMS achieves the goal of alerting the operator when the operator has been determined to be distracted or inattentive, a need remains for a system and method to improve or maintain operator attention while operating a vehicle to prevent the operator from becoming distracted and / or inattentive. Summary of the Invention
[0004] According to several aspects, a method for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement is proposed. The method includes: (a) analyzing sensor data to determine whether the operator is in an alert state; (b) determining the length of time the operator remains alert; (c) determining whether the length of time the operator remains alert is greater than a predetermined attention threshold (AThreshold); and (d) delivering first-level positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF) in response to the length of time the operator remains alert being greater than the predetermined attention threshold (AThreshold).
[0005] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes repeating steps (a) to (d); determining the number of 1L PRFs issued continuously; and issuing a second level of positive reinforcement feedback (2L PRF) when the number of 1L PRFs issued continuously is equal to a first predetermined calibration value (K1).
[0006] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes determining a number of 2L PRFs emitted continuously; and emitting a third level positive reinforcement feedback (3L PRF) when the number of 2L PRFs emitted continuously equals a second predetermined calibration value (K2).
[0007] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the 1L PRF includes an audible alert tone; the 2L PRF includes an audible cheer; and the 3L PRF includes at least one of a personalized message and accumulable points redeemable for services or items of monetary value.
[0008] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the 3L PRF is based on a predetermined focus score (FS), wherein:
[0009] FS = (TT – ADT) / TT, where:
[0010] TT = Total travel time
[0011] ADT = Accumulated Distraction Time
[0012] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the 1L PRF and the 2L PRF are performed by an infotainment unit of the vehicle.
[0013] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes analyzing sensor data to determine a distraction event (DE); determining a distraction duration (DD) of the DE; determining that the DD is greater than a predetermined distraction threshold (DT); and in response to the DD being greater than the DT, resetting the number of consecutively emitted 1L PRFs to zero.
[0014] In another aspect of the present disclosure, analyzing sensor data to determine that an operator is in an alert state includes analyzing sensor data to determine whether the operator exhibits a predetermined distracting behavior; determining a distraction duration during which the operator exhibits the predetermined distracting behavior; and determining that the operator is in an alert state in response to either: (i) determining that the operator does not exhibit the predetermined distracting behavior, and (ii) the distraction duration is less than a predetermined distraction threshold (DT).
[0015] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes issuing at least one of the 1L PRF, the 2L PRF, and the 3L PRF in response to the 1L PRF being equal to any value greater than the first predetermined calibration value (K1).
[0016] In another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the following is satisfied: (i) the first-level positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF) is delivered contingently, and (ii) the second-level positive reinforcement feedback (2L PRF) is delivered contingently.
[0017] According to several aspects, a system for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement is provided. The system includes at least one sensor configured to collect information about a vehicle operator; and a control module configured to: analyze the collected information to determine that the operator is in an alert state, determine an alertness duration for which the operator remains alert, and, in response to the duration of the alertness duration being equal to a predetermined sustained attention threshold (AThreshold), issue first-level positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF).
[0018] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the control module is further configured to determine the number of consecutively emitted 1L PRFs and emit a second level positive reinforcement feedback (2LPRF) when the number of consecutively emitted 1L PRFs is equal to a first predetermined first value (K1).
[0019] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the system further includes an infotainment unit in communication with the control module. The infotainment unit is configured to emit the 1L PRF in the form of a chime and emit the 2L PRF in the form of a cheer.
[0020] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the control module is further configured to determine a number of consecutively emitted 2L PPRFs and emit a third level positive reinforcement feedback (3LPRF) when the number of consecutively emitted 2L PRFs equals a second predetermined calibration value (K2).
[0021] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the system further includes a reward system configured to issue 3L PRFs in the form of reward points redeemable for services or items of monetary value.
[0022] According to various aspects, a non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions stored thereon for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement, the instructions, when executed by a processor, causing the processor to: receive sensor data including operator characteristics; analyze the operator characteristics to determine that the operator is in an alert state; determine an alertness duration for which the operator maintains the alert state; and, in response to the duration being equal to a predetermined sustained attention threshold (AThreshold), issue a first level of positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF).
[0023] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions for causing a processor to determine a number of consecutively emitted 1L PRFs, and to emit a second level of positive reinforcement feedback (2L PRF) when the number of consecutively emitted 1L PRFs is equal to a first predetermined first value (K1).
[0024] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the computer-readable medium further includes instructions for causing the processor to determine a number of consecutively emitted 2L PRFs, and to emit a third level of positive reinforcement feedback (3L PRF) when the number of consecutively emitted 2L PRFs equals a second predetermined calibration value (K2).
[0025] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions for causing the processor to occasionally issue at least one of the 1L PRF and the 2L PRF.
[0026] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the computer-readable medium further includes instructions for causing the processor to issue 3L PRF as accumulable reward points redeemable for services or items of monetary value.
[0027] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.
[0029] Figure 1 is a functional diagram of a vehicle having a system for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0030] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of a system for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement according to an exemplary embodiment; and
[0031] Figure 3 is a flow chart of a method for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. Illustrated embodiments are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent corresponding parts in the various drawings. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular features. The specific structural and functional details disclosed are not intended to be construed as limiting, but rather as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to practice the disclosed concepts.
[0033] As used herein, the terms module, component module, control module, or controller refer to any hardware, software, firmware, electronic control component, processing logic, and / or processor device, used alone or in any combination, including but not limited to: application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (shared, dedicated, or grouped) and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, combinational logic circuits, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality.
[0034] The embodiments of the present disclosure may be described using functional and / or logical block components and various processing steps. It should be understood that these block components may be implemented by any number of hardware, software, and / or firmware components configured to perform the specified functions. For example, the embodiments of the present disclosure may employ various integrated circuit components, such as memory elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements, lookup tables, etc., which may perform various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. In addition, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with any number of systems, and the systems described herein are merely exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] The connecting lines shown in the various figures herein are intended to represent example functional relationships and / or physical couplings between the various elements. Conventional techniques may be used for signal processing, data transmission, signaling, and control, while other functional aspects of the system (and the individual operating components of the system) may not be described in detail herein. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS), also known as Operator Distraction Detection Systems, are important in addressing the issue of vehicle operator distraction. However, the challenge is not only in detecting when an operator has become distracted, but also in preventing the operator from becoming distracted. The following disclosure provides a system and method for improving operator attention and increasing the duration of operator attention based on positive reinforcement of system behavior with personalized feedback and / or rewards. Positive reinforcement is a technique used in psychology to promote behavioral change. When desired operator attention is observed, the frequency of operator attention is increased and maintained over the long term by providing positive reinforcement (positive feedback).
[0037] Figure 11 is a functional diagram of a vehicle 100 having a system (system 200) for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement. System 200 can be a discrete stand-alone system or a component of an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) 101 (e.g., a driver monitoring system (DMS) 101) that is configured to determine an operator's state (also referred to as an operator state), such as distraction, drowsiness, inattention, etc. Although vehicle 100 is shown as a sedan, it is contemplated that the connected vehicle 100 can be another type of road vehicle, such as a pickup truck, a coupe, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), and a recreational vehicle (RV).
[0038] Vehicle 100 generally includes a front windshield 102 and a passenger compartment 104 in which an operator 106 resides. Passenger compartment 104 includes an instrument panel or dashboard 108, cabin sensors 110 configured to capture information from operator 106, and a feedback system 112, such as an infotainment unit 112 having an audio transmitter 114, such as a speaker 114 capable of emitting chimes, cheers, and pre-recorded messages. Cabin sensors 110 can be positioned at appropriate locations within passenger compartment 104 to collect information or data regarding predetermined characteristics of the operator, such as facial and physical features, which system 200 can analyze to determine the operator's status. The predetermined characteristics of the operator are also referred to as operator characteristics. In a non-limiting example, cabin sensors 110 are generally located within dashboard 108 of vehicle 100 and facing operator 106. In another non-limiting example, cabin sensors 110 can be mounted on a rearview mirror 116 or windshield 102 of the vehicle.
[0039] The cabin sensor 110 may be a sensor in the form of an optical camera having a CCD / CMOS active pixel digital image sensor. Multiple optical cameras 110 may be used to capture multiple angles of the operator's features and changes in the operator's features to determine the operator's status. The optical camera 110 may be configured to capture continuous image frames. The optical camera 110 may also be a video camera having a processor to capture continuous image frames from a video feed. The cabin sensor 110 may include other types of sensors that may be configured to collect information about the operator's features, which may be analyzed to determine whether the operator is distracted or alert.
[0040] Vehicle 100 may also have at least one external sensor 118 configured to collect information or data about the external operating environment of vehicle 100, which may be analyzed to determine whether operator 106 may be distracted based on the behavior of vehicle 100. Preferably, external sensor 118 is capable of capturing information about objects in the path of vehicle 100, such as vehicles ahead and lane markings defining the road within which vehicle 100 is traveling. More preferably, external sensor 118 is capable of detecting road conditions, weather conditions, driving visibility, and the like. The information collected by external sensor 118 may be analyzed by system 200 to detect challenging external conditions, such as rain, snow, sleet, fog, traffic jams, and the like. External sensor 118 may include a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and the like, and may be configured to collect information or data about the external operating environment of the vehicle.
[0041] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 1 , system 200 includes a control module 202 that communicates with cabin sensors 110, infotainment unit 112, operator profile database 210, reward system 212, distraction duration timer 214, and attention timer (ATimer) 216. If vehicle 100 is so equipped, control module 202 may also communicate with DMS 101. In one embodiment, control module 202 is configured to analyze information collected by cabin sensors 110 and / or external sensors 118 to determine the operator's state. In another embodiment, control module 202 communicates with DMS 101 to obtain information about the operator's state. Control module 202 includes at least one processor 204 and a non-transitory computer-readable storage device or medium 206. Non-transitory computer-readable storage device or medium 206 includes machine-readable instructions that, when executed by processor 204, cause processor 204 to perform method 300 described below and other functions of system 200. The operator profile database 210 may be stored on the medium 206 , or on a separate non-transitory computer-readable storage device located on the vehicle 100 or at a remote location, such as a cloud server or a server located in a back office.
[0042] The processor 204 can be a custom or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an auxiliary processor of several processors associated with the control module 202, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a macroprocessor, a combination thereof, or generally a device for executing instructions. The computer-readable storage device or medium 206 can include volatile and non-volatile storage devices such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and keep-alive memory (KAM). KAM is a persistent or non-volatile memory that can be used to store various operating variables when the processor 204 is powered off. The computer-readable storage device or medium 206 of the control module 202 can be implemented using a variety of storage devices, such as PROM (programmable read-only memory), EPROM (electrical PROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), flash memory, or other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combination storage devices capable of storing data, some of which represents executable instructions used by the control module 202.
[0043] The system 200 can retrieve operator profiles from the operator profile database 210 for analyzing information collected by the cabin sensors 110 to determine the operator state. The control module 202 receives information from the cabin sensors and / or external sensors. The control module 202 is configured to analyze the received information to detect distraction events (DE), i.e., when the operator is detected to exhibit behavior indicating that the operator is distracted, drowsy, inattentive, using a mobile device, etc. The continuous time period during which DE is detected is called the distraction duration (DD). The DD is compared with a predetermined allowable distraction time period, called the distraction threshold (DT). In one embodiment, if the DD is less than the DT, it is determined that the operator is in a non-distracted state, also referred to as a focused state or an alert state. Conversely, if the DD is equal to or greater than the DT, it is determined that the operator is in a distracted state.
[0044] In a non-limiting example, information collected by the cabin sensors 110 can be analyzed to detect occupant behavior, such as the gaze direction and eyelid closure percentage of the operator 106, which can indicate that the operator 106 is in a distracted state. In a non-limiting example, when DD is greater than DT, the operator is determined to be in a distracted state in response to detecting that the position of the operator's eyes is directed away from the front windshield 102 of the vehicle 100. The operator 106 can also be determined to be in a distracted state if the eyelid position of each eye is closed by greater than or equal to a predetermined closure percentage (e.g., 80% closed) and the closure time is greater than a distraction time period threshold.
[0045] In another non-limiting example, the control module 202 analyzes information collected by the front external sensors 118 to determine the rate at which the vehicle 100 is approaching an object or vehicle in the path of the vehicle 100, or the relative position of the vehicle within a lane. If the rate at which the vehicle 100 is approaching the object is greater than a predetermined rate, the control module 202 may determine that the operator 106 is in a distracted state. The control module 202 may also determine that the operator 106 is in a distracted state if the vehicle 100 oscillates within the lane more than a predetermined frequency.
[0046] System 200 is configured to determine an undistracted event (UE), defined as a period of time during which the operator remains distracted for a predetermined period of time, also referred to as an attention threshold (AThreshold). A UE represents a period of sustained operator attention during which positive feedback is provided. In other words, a sustained AThreshold represents a period of sustained operator attention (i.e., without a distracting event (DE) occurring with a distraction duration (DD) greater than the distraction threshold (DT)). Once sustained AThreshold is achieved, positive feedback or a reward is provided to the operator.
[0047] Positive feedback or rewards are provided to the operator as follows. First-level positive reinforcement feedback (L1 PRF) is provided each time a UE is achieved. Second-level positive reinforcement feedback (L2 PRF) is provided every time the L1 PRF is achieved K1 times. K1 is defined as the personalized Number of Attention Cue Voices (NFC) threshold, which is calculated based on the Attention Score (FS) and is defined below. Third-level positive reinforcement feedback (L3 PRF) is provided every K2 times the L2PRF feedback is achieved. K2 is defined as the personalized Number of Attention Voice Chants (NFVC) threshold, which is also calculated based on the FS. K1 and K2 are determined based on personalized metrics collected and calculated over time and will define the operator's individual attention profile. Using personalized thresholds for K1 and K2 to calibrate the frequency of the L2 PRF and L3 PRF provides a sufficient level of challenge to maintain the effectiveness of positive reinforcement.
[0048] The operator can be provided with rewards in the form of a attention score (FS), which can be converted into valuable physical items or services. FS is defined as the total distraction-free time within the travel time.
[0049] FS = (TT - ADT) / TT, where:
[0050] TT is the total travel time;
[0051] ADT is the accumulated distraction time, which is the sum of the DDs of all events during TT, including the DDs under DT.
[0052] For example:
[0053] FS = (55 minutes – 9 minutes) / 55 minutes = 0.83
[0054] FS = (55 minutes – 1 minute) / 55 minutes = 0.98
[0055] The feedback system 112 interacts with the operator 106 by providing auditory notifications of different driving attention levels achieved. The feedback system 112 is configured to interact with the operator 106 in a game-like mode (gamification technology) that includes emitting unique prompt sounds when the L1 PRF is reached. Non-limiting examples of prompt sounds include default sounds (such as ringtones or tones) and personalized sounds. The feedback system 112 can be configured to include a cheering voice message when the L2 PRF is reached. Non-limiting examples of cheering sounds include personalized voice messages and pre-recorded messages from friends and family. Feedback can be fully personalized to increase operator motivation. For example, the prompt sound can be personalized to any meaningful sound, and cheers and messages from loved ones can also be pre-recorded.
[0056] When the Level 3 PRF is achieved, points can be awarded. A unique sound and / or voice message can be played to indicate that points have been accumulated in the operator's rewards profile. Points can be attributed to existing subscription services, such as OnStar. Reward points can be redeemed for offers such as accessories, vehicle service discounts, and other third-party services. Earned points can be boosted through an intermittent positive reinforcement algorithm (IPRA) to improve attention. Targeted personalization can be linked to any social interaction and recognition method, such as offline social networks where family and friends can provide social recognition for positive attention profiles.
[0057] The rewards system 212 tracks and redeems accumulated points earned by playing the "Drive Focus Game," providing real-world incentives for avoiding distracted driving. Leveraging existing mechanisms such as OnStar and / or the "My Chevrolet" app, reward points can be redeemed for discounts on accessories, vehicle service, and other third-party services. The operator's 106 attention profile can also be implemented as a social credit system to provide insurance discounts and other offers and recognition within any social interaction network.
[0058] The operator profile database 210 stores operator data and provides for the calculation of personalized parameters and profile indicators to calibrate and improve the response of the method 300 over time. Personalized parameters include:
[0059] Data indicators include:
[0060] FS-Attention Score
[0061] CFS-Cumulative Attention Score
[0062] DEV-Distracting Event Variability
[0063] DEAT - average duration of distraction events
[0064] Predetermined thresholds include:
[0065] DT - distraction threshold, calculated based on the average time of distraction events (DEAT), for example, the default is 5 seconds
[0066] AT-Sustained Attention Threshold, calculated based on the variability of distracting events (DEV), for example, the default is 45 seconds
[0067] Calibration levels include:
[0068] K1-Personalized attention calibration, calculated based on attention score
[0069] K2-Personalized attention calibration, calculated based on attention score
[0070] Figure 3 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method (method 300) for improving driving attention through systematic positive reinforcement using time-based reinforcement. Method 300 begins at block 302 with an operator operating a vehicle. Moving to block 304, control module 202 analyzes information collected by cabin sensors, external sensors, and / or driver monitoring system (DMS) 101 to detect distraction events (DEs).
[0071] Proceeding to block 306, if DE is detected, the method proceeds to block 334. At block 334, the distraction duration (DD) of the DE is determined.
[0072] Proceeding from frame 334 to frame 336, if DD is equal to or greater than the predetermined distraction threshold (DT), the operator is deemed distracted and the method 300 proceeds to frame 338. At frame 338, the attention timer (ATimer) 216 is reset and the method 300 ends at frame 340, or if the operator continues to operate the vehicle 100, the method 300 continues to repeat from frame 304.
[0073] Referring back to block 306 , if DE is not detected, the method 300 proceeds to block 308 . At block 308 , the distraction duration timer 214 is reset. The method proceeds to block 310 .
[0074] At block 310 , the incremental attention timer 216 is started to measure the continuous time period of the UE (ie, the DD of DE is less than DT).
[0075] At box 312, if the cumulative incremental attention time is equal to the predetermined attention threshold (AThreshold), the method proceeds to box 314. Otherwise, the method 300 ends at box 340, or if the operator continues to operate the vehicle 100, the method 300 continues to repeat from box 304.
[0076] From block 312, the method proceeds to block 314. At block 314, the module 202 issues a first-level positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF) (e.g., an attention tone) to reward the operator. From block 314, the method proceeds to block 316, where the attention timer (ATimer) 216 is reset. The method proceeds to block 318.
[0077] At block 318 , the module 202 increments the number of attention beeps (NFCs) for each time interval in which the operator is determined to be attentive (i.e., UE). In other words, the module 202 determines the number of consecutive 1L PRFs. The method proceeds to block 320 .
[0078] At block 320, if the NFC (i.e., the number of consecutively issued 1L PRFs) is equal to the first predetermined calibration factor (K1), the method 300 proceeds to block 322. At block 322, the module 202 issues a second level of positive reinforcement feedback (2L PRF), which is an attention voice cheer. The method then proceeds to block 324.
[0079] At block 324 , ATimer is reset and the method 300 proceeds to block 326 . At block 326 , the module 202 increments the number of focused voice cheers (NFVC) (ie, the number of consecutively emitted 2L PRFs). The method proceeds to block 328 .
[0080] At block 328 , the module 202 determines whether the NFVC is equal to K2 . If the NFVC is greater than the second predetermined calibration factor ( K2 ), the method 300 proceeds to block 330 .
[0081] At block 330 , third level positive reinforcement feedback (3L PRF) is awarded. In an embodiment, the 3L PRF may be accumulable reward points that can be redeemed for benefits such as accessories, vehicle service discounts, and other third party services.
[0082] The method proceeds to box 332. At box 332, ATimer is reset and the method ends at box 340, or if the operator continues to operate the vehicle 100, the method continues to repeat from box 304.
[0083] While the time-based method 300 provides feedback in a regularly scheduled manner, an intermittent feedback mode can be provided sporadically at random times within a certain range. After a period of consistent, stable feedback has been provided, the time-based method 300 can switch to the intermittent feedback mode. The intermittent feedback mode can also be triggered at any time when increased focus is needed. For example, when operator indicators indicate a tendency to become distracted, occasional rewards can be delivered to increase motivation and self-awareness. The goal is to maintain operator motivation by providing additional recognition at occasional times.
[0084] The description of the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and variations that do not depart from the general meaning of the present disclosure are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
Claims
1. A method for improving operator attention through systematic positive reinforcement, comprising: a. Analyze sensor data to determine whether the operator is alert; b. Determine the length of time the operator remains alert; c. Determining that the alertness time is greater than a predetermined attention threshold (AThreshold); and d. In response to the length of the alertness time being greater than the predetermined attention threshold (AThreshold), issuing a first-level positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF).
2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Repeat steps (a) to (d); Determine the number of consecutive 1L PRFs issued; as well as When the number of the consecutively issued 1L PRFs is equal to a first predetermined calibration value (K1), a second level positive reinforcement feedback (2L PRF) is issued.
3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: Determine the number of consecutive 2L PRFs issued; as well as When the number of the continuously emitted 2L PRFs is equal to a second predetermined calibration value (K2), a third level positive reinforcement feedback (3L PRF) is emitted.
4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The 1L PRF includes an audible prompt tone; The 2L PRF includes audible cheering; as well as The 3L PRF includes at least one of a personalized message and accruable points redeemable for services or items of monetary value.
5. The method according to claim 4, wherein The 3L PRF is based on a predetermined attention score (FS), where: FS = (TT – ADT) / TT, where: TT = Total travel time ADT = accumulated distracted time.
6. The method according to claim 4, wherein: The 1L PRF and the 2L PRF are executed by an infotainment unit of a vehicle.
7. The method according to claim 3, further comprising: Analyzing sensor data to identify distraction events (DE); determining a distraction duration (DD) of the DE; determining that the DD is greater than a predetermined distraction threshold (DT); as well as In response to the DD being greater than the DT, the number of the consecutively issued 1L PRFs is reset to zero.
8. The method according to claim 3, wherein: Analyzing sensor data to determine operator alertness includes: analyzing sensor data to determine whether the operator exhibits predetermined distracting behavior; determining a distraction duration during which the operator exhibits the predetermined distracting behavior; and The operator is determined to be in an alert state in response to any of the following: determining that the operator is not exhibiting the predetermined distracting behavior, and The distraction duration is less than a predetermined distraction threshold (DT).
9. The method according to claim 3, further comprising: In response to the 1L PRF being equal to any value greater than the first predetermined calibration value (K1), at least one of the 1L PRF, the 2L PRF, and the 3L PRF is issued.
10. The method according to claim 3, wherein: Meet at least one of the following: The first-level positive reinforcement feedback (1L PRF) is delivered contingently; and The second-level positive reinforcement feedback (2L PRF) is delivered contingently.