The computer vision tech group's FOVIO system will make its auto production debut in the US salloon.
Companies: Seeing Machines Limited
A big step for computer vision technologies group Seeing Machines (AIM: SEE) today as it announces its FOVIO driver monitoring system will make its automotive production debut in the 2018 Cadillac CT6.
The FOVIO system is part of General Motors Super Cruise hands-free driving system, which allows, when safe to do so, drivers of cars fitted with the system to take their hands off the wheel to allow the car to steer itself when on highways.
One of the main challenges of hands-free driving is correctly monitoring the driver's actions whilst the car is in control of itself, to make sure they are prepared to re-take control when required.
Seeing Machines' technology monitors the driver attention state through an infrared camera on the steering wheel column, which measures "head orientation and eyelid movements". The technology works day and night, and with sunglasses on.
If the system is activated, and the driver does not re-engage with the road, intentionally or otherwise, after a number of warning lights, sounds and vibrations, the car will stop itself safely.
The launch of Super Cruise "marks the beginning of Seeing Machines' mass deployment of DMS technology in the automotive industry" the statement said.
SEE shares were up 4% to 3.25p off the back of the news.
Commenting on the debut, Mike McAuliffe, Seeing Machines CEO said:
"The Seeing Machines team has worked very hard on this breakthrough DMS technology for a number of years and is proud to have helped GM bring to market the world's first hands-free driving system for the highway, with the Cadillac CT6 Super Cruise."
Seeing Machines has been developing its computer vision driver assist technology for a variety of applications, including automotive, rail, aviation, mining and logistics, to help a range of machine driver issues including fatigue and distraction.
Currently Seeing Machines is a loss-making company, who in FY17 reported Revenues of £13.6m and a Net Loss of £29.7m. The Group is, however, forecast to turn its first profit in FY18, while Revenue is forecast to grow over 600% in the three years to FY19.
