Ford Files Patent for Driving-While-Standing Technology
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Engineers at Ford Motor Company have envisioned a way to allow drivers to continue operating their vehicles while standing upright — but only under particular scenarios. The Michigan automaker, according to CarBuzz, filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a secondary system to control acceleration or braking when the driver is standing or leaning and cannot reach the pedals.
Standing up in a convertible or through a sunroof while driving, of course, is entirely unnecessary — and very ill-advised — on roadways, but in convertible-style vehicles capable of off-road driving, such as the Bronco, drivers could need to stand to gain extra visibility when traveling over boulders or other obstacles.
Ford’s application covers a system located on the windshield or on a wearable device with a series of controls to manipulate the gas, brake, or steering wheel while out of the driver’s seat but within a “driving zone” established by cameras, proximity sensors, or other technology.
In addition to losing the ability to control foot pedals, leaving the seat could also deactivate driver-assist systems and other features, Ford noted in the filing. According to the report, the system would be restricted to very low speeds — possibly as little as 3 miles per hour — and specific driving conditions, including inclines, pitches, or wheels elevated off the ground. Ford also said it would include systems to help ensure the driver doesn’t fall out or lose control of the vehicle.
Image Credit: Mike Mareen / Shutterstock.com
