To improve state-of-the-art fatigue modeling technology to account for individual differences in fatigue and performance.

The Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project established the feasibility of a model-based approach to achieve accurate individualized driver alertness predictions. This was an essential first step in the development of a robust, individualized Fatigue Management Program (FMP) technology for over-the-road trucking operations. In the Phase II project, the research team completed a predictive model that estimates driver fatigue. The research team produced a prototype Web application suitable for use on laptops, tablets, and mobile phones to aid drivers in conducting route planning in a way that incorporates load assignment constraints, hours-of-service rules, and route-specific factors such as location and availability of rest stops. The Phase II project demonstrated the technical feasibility of this approach.

Individual differences in vulnerability to sleep loss and fatigue from extended work hours and night work are a substantial problem in transportation work schedule development, fatigue risk management strategies, and prediction of performance impairment in real-world operations. In Phase IIB, the research team continued development of Web services for fatigue-optimized route planning and fatigue risk mitigation in trucking operations. This project was built upon the Phase II deliverables to provide objective quantitative feedback to truck drivers, dispatchers, and safety managers about fatigue from fatigue stressors common in trucking (e.g., chronic sleep restriction, extended duty hours, night work). Drivers received feedback to aid in route planning and fatigue countermeasures selection (e.g., optimal times to drive, have a break, and sleep). Dispatchers and managers received feedback about driver fatigue levels expressed relative to operational and business metrics (e.g., crashes, fuel usage, driver turnover) to enable actions that could lower fatigue risk and fatigue-related costs. The goal of this project was to develop a set of production-ready Web services that telematics vendors can incorporate into their suite of driver and dispatcher applications.

Fatigue models that incorporate individual differences to allow for improved driver scheduling and route planning.

February 2015: Phase IIB project award

March 2015: Kick-off meeting

February 2016: Project completed

$750,000         

Project is complete.

Pulsar Informatics, Inc.