Monitoring of train driver's alertness: a feasibility study

This work deals with the development of a system for train driver alertness detection based on mechanical measurements. A setup for pressure, force, strain and contactless temperature measurements has been designed and installed on the seat of a high speed train. Effectiveness of the proposed measurements has been evaluated by testing activity, leading to the identification of the infrared detectors and pressure maps as the most promising sensors to be used for the intended application. Moreover, automatic detection algorithms based on the measured signals have been developed. Results showed potential reduction with respect to the existing drowsiness detection system up to 66% of the feedbacks required to the train driver.