Motion controls are often used in video games to pilot vehicles but a new Ford patent shows that the iconic automotive company is looking to use the same technology to control autonomous cars. This new Ford patent is fairly straightforward but could prove to be a huge step forward in autonomous vehicles, especially for those afraid to give full control away to a machine.
The Ford patent describes two ways this tech could work in a practical fashion. Firstly, the device could utilize an ersatz steering wheel. This system would detect a request to handoff driving from vehicle to person and will then sync the device to the vehicle. This system also detects a "base" position for the wheel, ensuring proper handling with a smartphone. The second mode uses the angle of the device to change the vehicle's steering angle.
Motion-Controlled Vehicle Steering
A New Ford Patent Showcases a New Form of Autonomous Driving
Trend Themes
1. Motion-controlled Vehicle Steering - Use of motion control technology to pilot autonomous vehicles, providing a new form of user interaction.
2. Autonomous Vehicle Handoff - Development of systems that facilitate smooth transition between autonomous and human driving.
3. Angle-based Steering Control - Utilization of device angle to adjust the steering angle of a vehicle, enhancing driving experience.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Automakers can explore implementing motion-controlled steering in autonomous vehicles to enhance user experience and build consumer trust.
2. Technology - Tech companies can develop innovative motion control systems for autonomous vehicles, creating new possibilities for human-machine interaction.
3. Gaming - Gaming industry can leverage motion control technology from video games to design intuitive interfaces for controlling autonomous vehicles.