Honda's New Crash Alert System
from the collision-mitigation-brake-system' dept
For years people have been talking about building systems into cars that prevent them from getting into accidents. The idea is pretty straightforward: have a simple radar-like device that judges the distance to other objects, and if you're too close for your speed, the system takes over to stop the car. Of course, whenever these systems were talked about, people would freak out at the idea of a computer taking over control of a car and applying the brakes. Clearly, if such a system malfunctioned, it could be even more dangerous. Honda is experimenting with a middle-of-the-road solution, which they call a "collision mitigation brake system". Instead of fully stopping the car, it gently applies the brakes, while tightening the seat belt and possibly making a buzzing noise. The idea is more to alert the driver, and at least get the avoidance process started, rather than fully try to avoid the accident. I still wonder what happens in the case of a malfunction, but it certainly sounds like an interesting product. Of course, Toyota claims they offer something similar and no one is interested in buying it. Right now the plan is only to offer this product in Japan, but if it takes off, it will certainly spread around the world pretty quickly.
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Not for when you're braking
I guess my concern would be its reaction when someone changes into your lane about 3 inches in front of your car. Even if there is no difference in velocity between your car and the nutter ahead, I suspect that the system might engage due to the lack of following distance.
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Re: Not for when you're braking
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Car accident prevention in real time
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