In a bid to reduce accidents caused by inattentive drivers, and injuries caused by rear-end collisions, Lexus is poised to launch new safety systems. Inattentive drivers are a major cause of accidents, and automakers are doing a lot to keep the drivers attentive, or let the vehicle take the reins itself when the driver fails to respond.
Prior to its launch, the system was tested rigorously. More than 100 drivers drove over 60,000 miles during the test.
This new system uses six cameras to monitor the driver’s face. A charge coupled device (CCD) camera built-in near-infrared LEDs is mounted on top of the steering wheel column. Use of infrared LEDs allows the system to function equally well in day as well as at night.
The system charts the position of facial features of the driver and monitors movement of the driver’s head. If the driver turns his head away from the road at an angle of 15degrees or more and an obstacle is detected ahead, a pre-crash warning buzzer is activated and brakes are applied briefly.
If this fails to evoke a response from the driver, the Pre Crash Safety system engages emergency braking preparation and pre-tensioning of the front seatbelts.
Threat of a rear-end collision is real and so is the chance of a whiplash injury. Taking this into account, the system watches the rear of the car as well. If an imminent collision is detected, Pre-Crash Intelligent Headrests on the front seats swing into action.
Headrests move 60mm forwards and 35mm upwards to reduce impact on the head. These headrests are intelligent enough to measure the distance between the passenger’s head and the headrest itself (using sensors) so a possibility of this safety system itself causing injury is eliminated. Headrests on unoccupied seats do not operate in the above circumstances.
New Lexus LS600h, which goes for sale next month, will be fitted with these systems. The PCS (Pre-Collision Safety) System will also be available on the Lexus LS 600hL and the LS 460.
[Via: Gizmag]
