Indian deep-tech startup DrivebuddyAI has been granted a patent for its driver drowsiness detection system, a major milestone in the company’s mission to enhance road safety through artificial intelligence and computer vision. The patented innovation uses advanced machine learning algorithms to detect signs of fatigue in drivers, aiming to reduce road accidents caused by human error.
The patent, titled “System and Method for Real-time Detection of Driver Drowsiness Using AI”, was awarded by the Indian Patent Office in recognition of DrivebuddyAI’s novel approach that combines real-time video analytics with physiological behavior modeling. The technology analyzes visual cues such as eyelid closure rate, head movement, yawning frequency, and eye-gaze patterns to detect signs of fatigue or microsleep in drivers.
Bridging the Gap in Road Safety
Founded in 2018, DrivebuddyAI has been working at the intersection of automotive safety and AI. The startup’s technology is already being used in commercial fleets, transport companies, and driver training centers across India and Southeast Asia. With the grant of this patent, DrivebuddyAI now holds exclusive rights to commercialize its drowsiness detection system in India, giving it a competitive edge in the rapidly growing AI-powered mobility sector.
“Getting the patent is a strong validation of our innovation and the years of research that went into building this technology,” said Prateek Chauhan, CEO and Co-founder of DrivebuddyAI. “Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of road fatalities worldwide. Our solution helps address this problem in real-time by alerting the driver and the fleet operator before a mishap occurs.”
How the Technology Works
Unlike traditional systems that rely on wearable sensors or steering input, DrivebuddyAI’s approach is entirely non-intrusive. A camera installed inside the vehicle’s cabin monitors the driver’s facial features and behavioral indicators. Using deep neural networks trained on thousands of hours of driving data, the system generates fatigue alerts when certain thresholds are crossed.
The system is also integrated with DrivebuddyAI’s broader telematics platform, enabling fleet managers to view drowsiness reports, analyze risk profiles, and implement proactive safety measures.
Alignment with Government Goals
The patent award comes at a time when both the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and NITI Aayog have emphasized the need for technology-based interventions to reduce India’s high rate of road accidents. According to government statistics, driver fatigue contributes to nearly 20% of highway accidents.
Industry experts see DrivebuddyAI’s patented solution as a timely innovation that aligns with India’s push for intelligent transport systems (ITS) and safer roads under initiatives like Bharat NCAP and the National Road Safety Policy.
Future Plans
With the patent secured, DrivebuddyAI plans to further refine the technology and expand its application to ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and autonomous driving modules. The startup also aims to enter global markets, particularly in the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia, where demand for fleet safety solutions is rapidly increasing.
The company is currently in talks with OEMs and tier-1 suppliers to embed its AI modules in upcoming commercial and passenger vehicles.
About DrivebuddyAI
DrivebuddyAI specializes in AI-powered driver monitoring systems (DMS), video telematics, and behavior analytics aimed at making roads safer and fleets smarter. The company has raised funding from angel investors and is supported by industry partners including NVIDIA and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).