Ford developing new headlight tech to ensure drivers keep eyes on road

MANILA: Ford engineers are testing new headlight technology in an effort to ensure drivers constantly keep their eyes on the road.

The new technology can project directions, speed limits, or weather information onto the road in order to keep the driver's eyes focused on the road ahead.

According to The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, 40% of collisions in the UK occur at night, despite the fact that there are significantly less drivers on the road compared to the daytime. Every time a driver takes their eyes off the road, the risk increases. A vehicle traveling at 90 kph moves 25 meters per second, so even a quick glance at the in-car screen can result in “driving blind” for 10 meters or more. This can result in missing an important sign or a bend in the route when driving on a dark road.

The new technology can also benefit other road users. For instance, a projected crosswalk can be made visible to both the vehicle and the pedestrian if the existing road markings are faded. The headlight technology can also provide the driver with a path to follow to make sure cyclists are passed safely.

The technology can also alert the driver of upcoming weather changes. By linking the headlight to the navigation system, approaching turns may also be shown. The width of the vehicle could be projected into the road, helping the driver in determining if it will fit through a narrow passage or into a parking space.

“What started as playing around with a projector light and a blank wall could take lighting technologies to a whole new level,” Ford of Europe Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Development Engineer Lars Junker stated. “There’s the potential now to do so much more than simply illuminate the road ahead, to help reduce the stress involved in driving at night. The driver could get essential information without ever needing to take their eyes off the road.”

Photos from Ford of Europe

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