ECG Sensor Driver Attention Detection

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting a driver's attention level, such as analyzing images and vehicle behavior, do not accurately measure attention levels associated with biometric signals, especially under conditions like strong external light or sensor errors.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method using electrodes in a vehicle to measure microcurrents and calculate the standard deviation of NN interval (SDNN) from electrocardiogram (ECG) signals to determine the driver's attention level, with visual, audible, and tactile alerts, and adjustments to warning systems based on calculated attention levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If image analysis methods are used to detect driver state, then the system can capture facial movements and reactions, but the detection accuracy deteriorates under strong external light or when the driver's face departs from the camera range

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection methodVSAvoiddriver state detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces optical/image-based detection systems with an electrical/biometric detection system. Specifically, it uses ECG sensors to detect electrical signals from the driver's heart, substituting the mechanical/optical camera system with an electrical signal-based measurement system that is not affected by lighting conditions or facial positioning

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary biometric parameter (ECG signal) that indirectly reflects the driver's attention level. Instead of directly observing facial features, the system measures the electrical activity of the heart, which serves as a reliable intermediary indicator of the driver's physiological state and attention level

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If sensor-based reaction analysis is used to detect driver state, then the system can obtain vehicle behavior information, but the detection accuracy deteriorates when sensor errors occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection methodVSAvoiddriver state detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary biometric parameter (ECG signal) that indirectly reflects the driver's attention level. Instead of directly observing facial features, the system measures the electrical activity of the heart, which serves as a reliable intermediary indicator of the driver's physiological state and attention level

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces sensor-based mechanical detection systems with biometric electrical signal detection. By measuring the driver's ECG signals directly, the system substitutes unreliable vehicle sensor data with direct physiological measurements from the driver's body

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If existing driver state detection methods are used, then the system can identify driver state based on indirect information, but the accuracy of detecting attention level (biometric signal) deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection systemVSAvoidattention level detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces indirect detection methods with direct biometric measurement. By installing ECG sensors that directly contact the driver's body (e.g., on the steering wheel or seat), the system substitutes indirect inference methods with direct physiological signal measurement, achieving both ease of implementation and high accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary biometric parameter (ECG signal) that indirectly reflects the driver's attention level. Instead of directly observing facial features, the system measures the electrical activity of the heart, which serves as a reliable intermediary indicator of the driver's physiological state and attention level

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Accurately detects the driver's attention level, providing timely and appropriate warnings to improve safety by integrating with advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous vehicle control.

Implementation Method 1

obtain microcurrent (e.g., an action current according to cardiac contraction) which flows in the body of the driver by means of electrodes provided in the vehicle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11548514B2Apparatus and method for detecting attention level of driver

Publication Date: 2023.01.10 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

An apparatus and a method for detecting an attention level of a driver are provided. The apparatus includes an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor that measures ECG of a driver and a controller that calculates a standard deviation of NN interval (SDNN) quantifying an attention level of the driver using the ECG measured by the ECG sensor and detects the attention level of the driver based on the calculated SDNN.