Thermal Sense
Thermal Sense is a driver monitoring interface for cars. Thermal Sense replaces the usual in-car camera with a low-resolution thermal sensor that records only heat patterns, so no identifiable images are created. The sensor module measures 40 by 30 by 20 millimeters and is mounted on the rearview mirror for wide cabin coverage. Neural networks analyze eye closure rates and head movements to detect drowsiness, distraction and the presence of a child. Safety alerts are given in less than 100 milliseconds, and privacy is protected at the data level.
Thermal Sense Automobile Interface by Zeyuan Zhang has been featured as an outstanding illustration of communication design by the A' Design Award & Competition. Thermal Sense Automobile Interface earned the Bronze A' Design Award in Interface, Interaction and User Experience Design in 2025. The A' Interface, Interaction and User Experience Design Award is an international, meritocratic, just and fair design competition which recognizes exceptional design of websites, mobile applications, software interfaces, game interfaces, wearable interfaces, virtual reality interfaces, augmented reality interfaces, dashboard designs and more.
