Short paper: Study of driver workload-based smartphone control service

Abstract

When any distracted driving of the driver is concerned, use of smartphones and navigation systems while driving are major causes for traffic accidents. However, in a situation where navigation systems are commonly installed and smartphones are commonly used within vehicles, it is better to implement technologies that control the use of smartphones in high-risk situations and allow brief periods of use otherwise, rather than ban the use of smartphones altogether while driving. This study introduces the DWMS (Driver Workload Management System) and proposes service that controls the use of smartphones according to driver's workloads.The DWMS periodically monitors the driver's behaviors and smartphone usages in order to calculate driving workload. When the calculated workload exceeds the threshold value, the driver is deemed to be overburdened and all incoming calls and SMS (Short Message Service) is blocked. The service will then make a notification when this status is relieved. In addition, at the end of driving, the DWMS will provide a summary of the information on how the driver drives, workload, and behaviors taken as a text message to the driver's smartphone. The result of this study can increase both driving safety and convenience for drivers.