Using Medical Science to Improve Auto Safety

Jaguar Land Rover Ltd. is working on several new safety systems based on advanced medical, sports and aerospace technologies. The goal is to identify and minimize driver distractions and alert drivers about potential health-related issues.

Using sophisticated sensors, the prototype systems monitor heart rate, respiration and brain activity to measure a driver's attention. The system can trigger repeated audio, visual and haptic alerts to help reengage a driver and if necessary take control of certain vehicle functions.

As part of its "sixth sense" project, JLR is developing a method to monitor brainwaves to determine if the driver is fatigued, distracted or otherwise inattentive. NASA and the U.S. bobsled team use similar techniques to improve concentration skills.

Vehicle applications embed sensors in the steering wheel to measure brainwaves through a driver's hands. If brain activity indicates poor concentration, the system can make the steering wheel vibrate or generate haptic feedback to the accelerator pedal.

JLR is conducting user trials to collect more information on different types of brainwaves, and it is consulting with top neuroscientists on the project.

The company also is evaluating vehicle applications for medical-grade sensors used to monitor the health of patients in hospitals. Such sensors could be embedded in the driver's seat. By monitoring heart rate and breathing, the sensors could identify the onset of potentially dangerous medical conditions.

JLR suggests this could be used to activate or maintain autonomous driving mode in future vehicles if a driver is deemed unable to take control. The sensors also could be used to assess a driver's stress level and trigger changes in lighting, audio settings and climate control to create a more soothing environment.

Another new tool JLR is developing monitors a driver's hand movements to predict usage of their infotainment system. The camera-based technology could select an intended button before the driver's hand reach it by comparing movement to previous behavior patterns.

JLR says initial tests show users are able to select buttons 22% faster with the technology. The company hasn't said if or when any of the technologies it is studying will become available in production vehicles.