News/Notice

1. What is DMS?

The Driver Monitoring System (DMS) is a system that monitors the driver’s face, gaze, and blink patterns in real time through an in-vehicle infrared (IR) camera and an Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

Drowsy or distracted driving is a serious issue that can lead to fatal traffic accidents. According to the Korea Road Traffic Authority, there were 5,688 traffic accidents caused by drowsy driving between 2021 and 2023.

To prevent such incidents, the EU has mandated the installation of DMS in all new vehicles starting in 2024, and the global market for DMS continues to expand.

2. Core Functions and Operating Principles

- Camera and Sensor Monitoring:

Cameras (including IR) and sensors installed inside the vehicle capture the driver’s facial features, eye movements, and head motions under any lighting conditions.

- Data Collection and Analysis:

The AI algorithm analyzes captured footage and sensor data in real time to assess driver behavior, such as blink rate, gaze direction, and head movement.

- Status Evaluation:

Based on the analysis, the system quickly determines whether the driver is drowsy, distracted, or fatigued.

- Alerts and Control Signals:

If a dangerous state is detected, the system sends alerts to the driver and, if necessary, communicates with the vehicle’s control system to initiate preventive actions.

Integrated DMS functions are especially effective in reducing accidents caused by drowsiness or distraction during long-distance or night driving, and also enhance safety in semi-autonomous driving where driver intervention is required.

3. Key Technologies

DMS contributes to accident prevention and driving safety by using advanced technologies to detect and analyze driver conditions in real time.

- Infrared Camera & High-Resolution Sensors

Capable of accurately recognizing the driver’s face, gaze, and blinking under various lighting conditions to ensure reliable data collection.

- AI and Machine Learning Algorithms

Analyze patterns such as gaze, facial expressions, and head movement to determine driver drowsiness, distraction, or fatigue in real time.

- Biometric Sensors

Monitor physiological signals such as heart rate to support a more precise evaluation of the driver's condition.

4. Applications and Use Cases

DMS is utilized across various vehicle environments and plays a key role in enhancing safety and service quality.

- Commercial Vehicles:

Prevents accidents in trucks and buses by monitoring driver fatigue and focus during long hours of driving.

- Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Vehicles:

Assists in safe transfer of control when driver input is needed in autonomous systems.

- Insurance and Legal Use:

Driver monitoring data supports accident cause analysis, insurance incentives, and liability assessment.

- Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services:

Enhances passenger safety and service reliability by monitoring driver behavior in real time.

5. Benefits and Impact of DMS

- Accident Prevention and Enhanced Safety:

DMS lowers the risk of accidents by detecting and alerting drowsy or distracted driving. Some countries have already reported a significant drop in accidents after implementing DMS—for example, in the UK.

- Driver Health and Focus Maintenance:

Helps drivers maintain condition during long or nighttime drives by detecting fatigue and issuing alerts.

- Synergy with Autonomous Driving:

Supports safe transitions between autonomous systems and driver control by detecting reduced alertness.

- Regulatory Compliance:

Helps automakers and drivers comply with safety regulations as DMS installation becomes mandatory or recommended in several countries.

- Driving Behavior Improvement via Real-Time Data:

The collected data can lead to better driving habits, lower insurance premiums, and other benefits.

NAMUGA is developing its own differentiated DMS solutions with advanced technologies to maximize driver safety and convenience. We are committed to creating a smarter and more reliable mobility experience.