Filed under: Car Buying, Gadgets, Trends
Automobiles girding for accidents in advance with pre-crash safety systems
The
Knowledge section of the U.K.’s The Times provided a short explanation and some examples of anticipatory
safety systems found in vehicles. These devices, known as pre-crash safety systems, are technologies that detect imminent dangers (i.e., crashes), priming the vehicle’s safety equipment to prepare for impact. An example of this would be pyrotechnic seat-belt pre-tensioners, which cinch a car's three-point harnesses before impact.
Each automaker has a different approach with their technology. Mercedes' S-class “Pre-Safe” system automatically closes an open sunroof and moves front and rear passenger seats to their safest positions. The Lexus GS Pre-Collision Safety (PCS) System uses radar to keep track of obstacles and if it determines a collision is unavoidable, tightens all driver and passenger seat belts while maximizing braking power.
Finally, Honda Motor Co.’s Accord uses a camera that sends a signal to the car’s power steering if it senses the car drifting from its lane.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Charles S 11:20AM (1/30/2006)
Isn't it ironic? Not much comments when it comes to safety.
While surveys may say that safety is high on the priority list, in reality, I would suspect that it would rank low when it comes to a purchasing decision.
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