Chrysler 300M IT-Edition Serves as Technology Showcase

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., May 9 Driver distraction is a major factor in many automobile accidents, so teams of young engineers from the Chrysler Group and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have collaborated on new computer systems to keep the driver's focus on the road.

The systems are being tested in a concept vehicle developed by Chrysler's Liberty & Technical Affairs advanced research group and the Media Lab at MIT. The advanced computer systems are installed in a Chrysler 300M sedan, and the vehicle has been dubbed the IT-Edition. Thomas Moore, Chrysler Group Vice President and head of the Liberty & Technical Affairs advanced research group, praised the enthusiasm and commitment of the young engineers, as well as their technical skills.

These systems constantly monitor information related to the driver's attention and movements, as well as road and traffic conditions. The goal is to better control the flow of information to the driver. For example, if the driver is distracted and in a demanding driving situation, the computers could postpone incoming cell phone calls, and provide an alert that redirects the driver's attention in a safer manner.

"It's fun so see how excited these young people are for a new project," said Moore. "In fact, we couldn't achieve nearly as much without their hard work."

The systems in the 300M IT-Edition are based on "affective computing," that is, the use of computers to monitor and respond to the emotional state and the stress levels of the driver. The onboard computers respond to different types of drivers, their driving style and their emotional state.

Sensing systems monitor the driver's position, hand and foot position, head and eye movements to determine where the driver is looking and whether the drive is alert, and the frequency of conversation with other passengers.

If traffic and road conditions require the driver's attention, the computers reduce the flow of new information. If the driver's attention wanders, the computers provide gentle reminders; for example, if the driver is turning or changing lanes without signaling, the blinker might flash.

Individual drivers can personalize their vehicle using controls and image found on a Personal Vanity display on the console.

"Driver distraction is an increasing concern on our highways, so we are looking forward to testing the ideas that our top young engineers have come up with," said Moore. The Chrysler 300M IT-Edition will be officially unveiled at the DaimlerChrysler Innovation Symposium in Sindelfingen, Germany, June 11-12.