GEO Semi Driver Monitoring System cameras

25 June 2020 | David Young

GEO's application specific camera video processors feature high dynamic range image processing, geometric processing for DMS (driver monitoring systems)

One of the more recent and rapidly growing applications in the automotive market is the Automotive Interior Monitoring Systems (IMS) that include Driver Monitoring (DMS) and Occupant Monitoring (OMS) applications.

Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) detect drowsy or distracted drivers and have been available in premium vehicles as a technology feature for a few years. Based on Euro-NCAP and the EU Commission's GSR this feature is expected to become mandatory for new European vehicles as soon as 2024. China and other countries are moving in the same direction. GEO has won multiple DMS programs with leading Tier 1s moving to production in 2020 and 2021.

Occupant Monitoring Systems (OMS) are evolving and initial systems will address Child Presence Detection, passenger detection, and other forms of detection to improve passenger safety. Child Presence Detection is an issue that is being addressed by multiple government bodies around the World. Euro NCAP announced that from 2022 onward it will provide ratings for this application, and in 2019 it was announced that all major US automakers voluntarily committed to make this standard by 2025.

A typical OMS application employs a image sensor that enables both daytime and very low light nighttime video with Near Infrared (NIR) active illumination in a vehicle interior. Advanced image processing is required in order to operate with the NIR source and produce quality color video in normal lighting conditions.

Source: GEO Semi