Monday, 6 August 2007
Nissan develops self-modulating accelerator pedal; also shows alcohol sensing technology and lane departure warning
« Earthcars.com is new comprehensive resource for green vehicle shopping | Main | Muscle-car-emulating motorcycle trailers provide towing flair »When it comes to innovation in automotive technology, the pursuit of safety seems to bring forward some of the most interesting developments. This spring The View from Inside reported on upcoming features, such as Mercedes-Benz’s Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, that enhance safety but require drivers to forfeit some control.
Now, Nissan has announced several technologies that have similar “trust-the-computer-and-not-the-driver” mentalities. For example, some upcoming Nissan vehicles will include gas pedals that lift automatically when a potential collision is detected by the built-in radar sensors. Furthermore, the car will begin to stop automatically if the driver responds to the pedal lift by removing his or her foot from the accelerator.
Another system integrates sensors into the gearshift that measure alcohol levels in the driver’s skin. Although the system does not disable a vehicle when levels are exceeded, it does warn the driver and occupants via an audible voice. A camera also monitors eye movement to determine if the driver is intoxicated or too sleepy. While these systems may not make passenger car production, they could be used in commercial vehicles.
The company’s lane departure warning system intervenes by moving the steering wheel when unwanted drifting/swerving is perceived. Finally, sensors in the bumpers trigger a release mechanism that raises the hood slightly in the event of a pedestrian collision. The idea is to place more space between the flexible hood sheetmetal and solid engine components, lessening the chance for injury.
All of these systems place more responsibility in the hands of the vehicle, as driver error is being analyzed and corrected. The balance between driver control and vehicle intelligence will continue well into the future.
Source: The Detroit News
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