A driver monitoring system consists of camera based driver monitoring systems (DMS) which are aimed directly at the driver’s face to evaluate the driver’s presence and level of attention. The DMS can assist in giving alerts to the drivers and even trigger an intervention where it takes control of managing the vehicle fleet. The system will ensure the employees are responsible for taking over a self-driving task and able to do so when necessary or needed.
In addition to all the monitoring, the system can be used to understand driver state or set up a user specific environment once it recognises the occupants.
How Does Driver Monitoring Software Work?
Well, as discussed earlier, the fleet driver monitoring works on automation which consists of sensors, cameras, and advanced algorithms that check and monitor driver’s behaviour in real time.
1. Censors
The system uses advanced cameras and sensors which are later installed in the vehicle to monitor driver’s actions, body movements, and facial expressions.
2. Data Collection
The software, without stopping, collects all the important information using cameras and sensors which are already installed. It detects the driver’s head movements, facial expression, body movements, and other set up criteria in love updates.
3. DMS
Once it receives the data, it then processes further processes in real time. It uses dash cams to understand the pattern and flag warning upon finding any issue with the vehicle.
4. Drowsiness
The system is designed to notice signs of drowsiness, fatigue, and being inattentive. The system can catch erratic eye movements, continuously blinking, or change in head position, all of which are signs that the driver is tired or not paying attention while being on the road.
5. Alerts and Warnings
When the system senses that the driver might be getting drowsy or if he does not focus on the road. It actively releases an alert and warns the manager and driver so the driver can refocus on their driving.
Reasons to Go For a Driver Monitoring System
After knowing how DMS works, now let’s understand how fleet organisations can also benefit from the system, as it will allow them to keep tabs on how efficient the fleet is.
1. Safety
The system tracks every action and movement inside the cabin which also includes driver monitoring. It simply notifies managers whenever a driver shows concerning behaviour such as speeding, hard braking, and rash driving. It also tells you if drivers smoke inside the vehicle.
2. Cost
The software helps in mitigating accidents which lowers insurance cost. Also, if drivers know that they are being observed, they are much more conscious and less likely to waste fuel through reckless driving. It can also assist in routing drivers for the most optimal routes. This, in turn, means less time on the road and lower fuel consumption
3. Accountability
When drivers know they are being tracked, it puts them on notice to instill better driving behaviour and make them more accountable for their actions. It also provides accurate data in case any problems or disagreements occur between the driver and management.
4. More efficient fleet management
These systems may assist fleet managers in monitoring their vehicles more conveniently. They provide reports such as visibility of each vehicle (which can be tracked down easily), where are they heading off, how they are being utilised, fuel consumption which make the whole operation more efficient and help in enhancing its operation.
5. Real time feedback
Another advantage of driver monitoring systems is that they offer real-time or instant feedback. Whenever something unsafe is being done, that particular driver receives an immediate warning. This provides real-time information which can help drivers make corrections instantly, thus avoiding the occurrence of an accident.
6. Data integration
The monitoring system collects data on how the vehicles are being driven. It will include fuel consumption, speed, acceleration & braking patterns, the duration of idling, and also picking up on fuel wastage.
7. Fuel monitoring system
Managers can see and check the level of fuel tank and the status of fuel consumption which will give you reports and monitor idling time and ignition.
Conclusive Thoughts!
A Driving Monitoring System is a key element in the future of Vehicle tracking and safety. It has started including semi autonomous driving modes across their mainstream models, keeping drivers attentive.
Now, large commercial fleets have already understood how driver’s behaviour can impact their overall fleet operation.
While privacy should not be taken lightly, the software indeed serves its benefits to society at large.
Want to know how carefully your drivers are managing their vehicles? If yes, then contact Trackobit which is equipped with video telematics and dash cams to keep an eye on your fleet management.