Thermal Sense: Privacy Focused Cabin Monitoring System

Abstract

Thermal Sense Cabin Monitor is a privacy-preserving in-cabin monitoring system that replaces conventional optical cameras with rearview mirror–integrated thermal imaging. Instead of capturing identifiable visual features, the system generates non-identifiable thermal heat maps to detect occupant presence, assess driver attentiveness, and identify anomalous cabin events. By relying exclusively on thermal signatures, it enables real-time safety monitoring while fundamentally safeguarding user privacy, directly addressing growing concerns over surveillance in intelligent vehicle environments. Thermal Sense integrates seamlessly with vehicle dashboards and mobile interfaces, providing intuitive thermal visualizations of occupancy and activity status. Upon detecting critical anomalies—including driver fatigue, unattended children, or sudden medical emergencies—the system triggers immediate alerts to onboard users or designated remote contacts. Its embedded rearview mirror design preserves interior aesthetics and supports a minimalist, user-centered interaction experience. Aligned with global data protection regulations and ethical AI frameworks, Thermal Sense reframes in-cabin intelligence from intrusive surveillance to human-centric, privacy-first sensing, establishing a new benchmark for responsible design in next-generation smart mobility systems.