Teletrac Navman introduces AI tool to combat driver fatigue

Teletrac Navman, a connected mobility platform for industries managing vehicle and equipment assets, has announced the introduction of a new, cutting-edge feature aimed at combating driver fatigue and distraction. The firm has integrated advanced algorithms into its AI-powered dashcam and video telematics solution, the IQ Camera, bolstering fleet safety by delivering real-time behavioural monitoring and enhanced insights.

Andrew Rossington, Chief Product Officer at Teletrac Navman, highlighted the addition of these fresh detection capabilities to the Australian market through the IQ Camera. He said the technology "leverages advanced algorithms to monitor different aspects of driver behaviour" and provides "real-time alerts and insights to reduce the likelihood of incidents and promote the well-being of drivers". These include monitoring driver positioning, following distance, lane adherence, and harsh manoeuvring, among others.

In addition to monitoring for potential driver fatigue, the IQ Camera's video telematics capabilities can recognise behaviours such as mobile phone use, erratic head movements, and gaze deviations, aiding the driver to maintain focus on the road. Furthermore, it's continuous monitoring of physiological indicators such as eye closure duration and head position can trigger timely alerts to prevent fatigue-related collisions.

Addressing distracted driving, the system identifies two primary types of behaviour, dubbed 'Owl' and 'Lizard' motions. In the former, a distraction alert is created when there is a significant difference in head pose and direction of motion over a duration of time. The latter identifies distractions based on the duration of eyes are averted from the road ahead. The fourth alert it can generate, referred to as 'Cell Phone Distraction Monitoring', is designed to combat mobile phone-related distractions by identifying instances of phone usage during driving.

Andrew elaborated on the impact of such technologies on businesses, stating that "By embracing video telematics and AI-driven solutions, businesses can help safeguard their drivers and gain a competitive edge in the market." He noted that fleet managers can gain real-time footage alongside data insights, empowering them to protect drivers and win new business through advanced offerings, which include route optimisation and always-accessible location services, among others.

The AI-powered dashcam proactively alerts the driver and the back-office team when distraction, cell phone use, or drowsiness are detected. This empowers the management to review all drive-time footage as it happens, thus ensuring protection against false accusations and insurance fraud. Besides, it enables positive behaviour management, which has reportedly led to cost savings on maintenance and fuel for some businesses.

Teletrac Navman customer Jarratt Transport Solutions has witnessed such benefits firsthand. Their company reports a monthly saving of around 3000 litres of fuel and lower maintenance costs as a result of improved driver behaviour. According to Andrew, such examples illustrate the transformative impact of AI-powered technology and its potential to create "a safer road network for all Australians."