Build a smart system using Arduino that alerts of driver fatigue

Road safety is a critical concern, with driver fatigue and distractions among the leading causes of accidents.

In this project, we’ll devise a smart system using Arduino UNO and a blink-eye sensor to monitor driver alertness. If the driver shows signs of drowsiness, the system takes proactive measures to prevent a potential accident. This includes alerting the driver and, if necessary, controlling the vehicle to ensure safety.

By leveraging modern electronic technologies, this solution aims to enhance road safety and reduce the frequency of accidents.

Figure 1. The demonstration.

The working principle

The eye-blink sensor continuously monitors the driver’s eye movements. It triggers an immediate response if it detects irregular blinking patterns, as this may signify possible drowsiness or inattention.

The Arduino processes this sensor data and activates a buzzer to alert the driver. At the same time, the relay module controls a dc motor to simulate the vehicle slowing down and stopping.

Components

Arduino UNO
Eye-blink sensor
Dc motor
Buzzer
Relay module
Jumper wires
A 9-V battery with cap
A 4-V re-chargeable battery
Two switches

Circuit diagram

Figure 2. The circuit diagram.

How it works

Connect the eye-blink sensor:
- Connect the sensor’s VCC and GND pins to Arduino’s 5V and GND pins.
- Connect the sensor’s output pin to Arduino’s pin 10.
Connect the buzzer:
- Connect the buzzer’s positive terminal of to Arduino’s pin 13.
- Connect the buzzer’s negative terminal of its GND pin.
Connect the dc motor via the relay:
- Connect the relay module’s input pin to Arduino’s pin 7.
- Connect the relay’s VCC and GND pins to Arduino’s 5V and GND pins.
- Connect the motor to the relay module via the switch, which is powered by the 4-V rechargeable battery.
Power-up Arduino:
- Connect the 9-V battery to Arduino’s power jack using the battery cap.

The code

Connect Arduino UNO to your computer and select the correct board and port from Arduino IDE’s Tools menu. Then, click the upload button.

Testing the system

Turn on Arduino’s power supply and ensure all connections are secure.
Place the eye-blink sensor in a position where it can accurately monitor a driver’s eyes for the amount they blink.
Simulate normal and abnormal blink patterns to test the system’s response.
When the abnormal blinks are detected, the buzzer should sound and the motor should stop.

Conclusion

By continuously monitoring a driver’s eye movements, this smart system provides timely alerts and can take corrective action, alerting a driver to prevent accidents. This prototype lays the groundwork for more advanced safety systems that could be integrated directly into vehicles, contributing to safer roads and improved driver protection.