GM developing Wireless Pedestrian Detection Technology

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Safety features for vehicles are becoming more sophisticated than ever before and pedestrian detection is high on the priority list. The ultra-safe Volvo V40 is a good example with its pedestrian detection technology that detects a pedestrian’s presence in front of the vehicle and applies the brakes accordingly. The Volvo V40 also features the world’s first pedestrian airbag, a U-shaped airbag that is deployed from underneath the bonnet when a vehicle-to-pedestrian collision is detected.

Volvo is not the only automaker making strides in pedestrian safety. Researchers at General Motors are currently in the process of developing wireless pedestrian detection technology that relies on Wi-Fi Direct to warn drivers of pedestrians or bicyclists before they can even see them. The technology will be especially useful on highly congested roads or in poor visibility conditions. The system can only detect pedestrians or bicyclists who are carrying smartphones with Wi-Fi Direct. In addition, GM also has plans to develop a complimentary app that frequent road users can download making them ‘visible’ to Wi-Fi Direct-equipped vehicles.

“This new wireless capability could warn drivers about pedestrians who might be stepping into the roadway from behind a parked vehicle, or bicyclists who are riding in the car’s blind spot,” said Nady Boules, GM Global R&D director of the Electrical and Control Systems Research Lab. “Wi-Fi Direct has the potential to become an integral part of the comprehensive driver assistance systems we offer on many of our Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC vehicles.”

News Source: General Motors