Ford Developing New Systems To Reduce Stressful Driving Situations

Online, July 23, 2012 (Newswire.com) - With driver distractions more frequent now than ever, Ford engineers are researching new ways to help drivers stay focused and stress-free on the road. These new systems will integrate Ford's existing driver assistance systems with new technology biometrics which will take driver assistance to a whole new level.

Currently in the research and development stages are a biometric seat, steering wheel and seatbelt. Ford engineers intend to be able to collect information on the driver's condition from these areas such as temperature, respiration and heart rate.

The data from these sensing systems will then be used to determine the amount of external demand and workload upon a driver at any given time. This workload estimator is an algorithm that uses real-time data from existing sensors such as radar and cameras combined with the input from the driver's use of the throttle, brakes and steering wheel.

All of these factors based on the different systems will be able to disable certain features in the car if the sensors feel the driver is too stressed. For example, if the vehicle senses the driver braking frequently with an increased heart rate, there may be a lot of traffic and crazy drivers indicating that it might not be a great time to answer an incoming phone call.

With a more complete picture of the driver's health and wellness combined with knowledge of what is happening on the road, these new systems will have the intelligence to adjust the alerts provided to drivers while filtering interruptions.

Gary Strumolo, manager of vehicle design and infotronics and Ford Research and Innovation is excited about these new systems. He explained that, "while these features are still in research, they show significant opportunity for us to leverage data already being captured by the vehicle and apply an intelligent decision-making system to simplify the driving experience."

About Varsity Ford: Varsity Ford is a local Ford dealership located in Ann Arbor, MI. They carry a large inventory of new and pre-owned Ford vehicles so that every customer leaves with the Ford vehicle they always wanted. For more information on Varsity Ford, swing by the dealership or visit them online at www.VarsityFord.com/.