Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/680184
You can learn a lot about truck driv- ers by watching their head and eye movements. Are they looking ahead but frequently scanning their mirrors and gauges? Or are they distracted and perhaps drifting off to sleep? Telematics systems and video event recorders can already monitor the inputs from sensors and controls on the vehicle to detect risky driving be- haviors. Now, a new set of technolo- gies is able to directly monitor drivers themselves. PGT Trucking, a 1,100-truck carrier with flatbed operations based in Mo- naca, Penn., is currently testing such a technology from Maven Machines. About 25 drivers at the company have volunteered to use a high quality Blue- tooth headset as their hands-free com- munication device, paired with their smartphones. Drivers can make phone calls, listen to music or get voice com- mands from their navigation apps. The safety benefit is not limited to hands-free connectivity. Inside the headset are sensors that detect subtle head movements as drivers look side to side at mirrors, down at gauges, or at objects inside and around their vehicles. The sensors and algorithms can also detect head bobs, or a lack of movement, as early signs of drowsi- ness or fatigue. The headset communicates with an app called Maven Co-Pilot. The app gives drivers feedback on their safe driving with scores that indicate if they are checking their mirrors in a timely manner, following the speed limit, and more. Soon, the product will have the option to actively warn drivers and fleets of fatigued or distracted driving. As an option, drivers can use their own 30 www.bigrigowner.com J U N E 2 0 1 6 Looking At You > By Aaron Huff New tech to monitor driver fatigue and distraction Maven Co-Pilot uses a hands-free wireless headset to detect head motion.