Best Practice

Validation and synthetic data for next-gen in-cabin monitoring systems

With high-realism simulations, advanced digital human models, and expressive humanoid robots, we support the next generation of trustworthy in-cabin perception AI systems through data-driven methodologies.

Meeting new European safety standards

As part of its Vision Zero initiative, the European Union aims to eliminate road fatalities by 2050, setting ambitious safety targets along the way. By 2026, all new vehicles will be required to include Advanced Driver Distraction Warning Systems (ADDWS) to detect driver impairment caused by distraction, drowsiness, or risky behaviours.

These systems monitor driver and passenger activity within the cabin to support safer driving and reduce accident risks linked to human error. This regulatory push is challenging automotive manufacturers to implement highly reliable and precise in-cabin monitoring technologies, ensuring compliance and enhancing overall road safety.

Our solutions for in-cabin monitoring

To help automotive manufacturers and Tier I suppliers meet the new regulatory requirements while excelling in vehicle safety ratings, we offer two specialised solutions that enhance coverage over the complete lifecycle of Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) and other In-cabin functionalities.

Virtual validation with digital humans

We provide high-fidelity 3D simulations that recreate the vehicle cabin environment. Using realistic digital human models, these simulations allow automotive companies to test various in-cabin scenarios and driver impairment conditions, in a controlled and repeatable virtual setting. This approach generates synthetic data and integrates virtual sensors, enabling initial validation of system functionality without the need for physical prototypes.

In-vehicle testing with humanoid robots

For in-vehicle validation, we leverage the Ameca humanoid robot as precise and reliable stand-ins for human testers. With advanced expressive capabilities, this robot can accurately replicate detailed driver behaviours, including eye movements, head gestures, and other reactions to in-cabin conditions. This level of precision ensures consistency across tests, providing a repeatable and controlled environment that reduces variability.

The main features

Driver state monitoring

Our solution integrates diverse ethnicities and traits with hyper-realistic body and facial animations, delivering precise gaze estimation, including complex ocular movements like "lizard" and "owl." Critical driver activities such as calling, drinking, and smoking can be easily replicated to enhance safety.

Occupant monitoring

Designed to adapt to all vehicle manufacturers and cabin configurations, our solution provides accurate monitoring of occupant behaviours and interactions with the driver. Customisable camera placements and comprehensive detection capabilities ensure seamless integration across a variety of use cases.

Seat belt detection

We can re-create conditions for detection of improperly fitted seat belts across diverse cabin designs and seat belt configurations. By offering tailored scenarios for specific cabin layouts, the solution enhances passenger protection, supports safety compliance, and ensures adaptability to a wide range of vehicle types and use cases.

Virtual sensors

Combining RGB/NIR virtual cameras and other sensor simulations at different locations, we generate synthetic data enriched with virtual ground truth. This capability supports validation for next-generation in-cabin systems, ensuring highly accurate results and reducing reliance on physical testing environments.

Key advantages

Streamlined test automation

Our integrated framework automates testing, data collection, and reporting, making validation efficient and consistent across development stages.

Precision motion capture and biometrics

Multi-camera setups, wearable technology, accurate digital platform capture detailed biometrics and depth data, offering critical insights for accurate DMS development.

Broadened coverage with scenario fuzzing

Advanced scenario fuzzing expands testing into unpredictable or unsafe domains, ensuring thorough coverage for real-world conditions.

High repeatability and accuracy

Digital humans and humanoid robots replacing human testers, provide consistent, repeatable results essential for regulatory compliance.

Flexible sensor fusion and pipeline integration

Our digital multi-sensor setups support complex systems, with real-time X-in-the-Loop capabilities to fit smoothly into existing testing workflows.

Privacy-centric and GDPR-compliant

With no human testers involved, our solutions streamline compliance with GDPR, ensuring efficient, privacy-friendly testing processes.

FROM IDEAS TO REALITY

At Area42, our development centre, we turn creative ideas into real, testable prototypes, advancing the future of in-cabin monitoring and autonomous driving. Explore how our innovative solutions can support your goals.

Concept Reply

Concept Reply, part of the Reply Group, specialises in IoT hardware and software innovation, delivering solutions in Smart Infrastructure, Industrial IoT, and Connected Vehicle sectors. Its services encompass the entire development process, from concept and design through to implementation and operational support, with expertise in hardware design, embedded software, edge computing, and cloud applications. In addition to IoT innovation, Concept Reply is recognized as a leader in Testing and Quality Assurance (QA), offering comprehensive product and service validation. Supported by advanced laboratories and a global team of QA specialists, it enables businesses to optimise costs and reduce time-to-market with reliable, high-quality solutions.