German researchers are developing a car that can anticipate side collisions and quickly transform its shape to absorb the impact.
The vehicle will utilize cameras and radar devices mounted on the roof to detect another vehicle that is likely to collide with its side. If a potential collision is detected, the car will activate a deformable metal structure in the door, reinforcing the connection between the door and the vehicle frame—typically the weakest point—while also helping to distribute the impact force more safely.
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The coordinated work of cameras and radar indicates the position and speed of vehicles at risk of collision. (Image: Siemens) |
Side impacts are as common as front and rear collisions, yet they cause more fatalities, according to Joachim Tandler, a vehicle safety researcher at Siemens.
“This is because the collision area is very small, and the energy absorbed is minimal before it reaches the passenger compartment</em," he stated. Additionally, in such situations, there is often not enough time to activate traditional protective systems, such as airbags.
This is precisely why Tandler’s team is seeking to develop solutions to protect passengers before the vehicle is struck. They have begun testing collision prediction systems on experimental cars and are building prototypes of this reinforcement deformation system.
“Starting next year, we will have a fully integrated system on a vehicle. In 2008, we will test it with actual collisions,” he said.
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