Technology uses sensors and artificial intelligence to detect threats in parking lots and can reposition the vehicle autonomously
Ford recently filed a patent for a system designed to move parked vehicles autonomously to avoid unforeseen collisions. The mechanism, which uses a set of sensors, cameras and artificial intelligence software, aims to protect the car from common threats in urban areas and shopping centers while the driver is away.
The patent application details a “System for Detecting Moving Objects.” The technology is capable of tracking risk trajectories in real time, ranging from drifting grocery carts to neighboring vehicles performing maneuvers at high speed or sliding on low-grip surfaces.
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The operation follows a scale of defensive actions. When detecting a possible collision course, the system can initially trigger external alerts, such as the horn or the flashing of headlights, to draw the attention of the other driver or pedestrian. If the risk persists and there is free space around, the vehicle itself can activate the powertrain to move laterally or retreat to a safe point, even changing spaces if necessary.
If the impact becomes unavoidable due to lack of room for maneuver, the system activates the peripheral cameras to record the incident, facilitating the identification of those responsible and the process with insurance companies. The automaker, however, points out that the filing of the patent does not guarantee the immediate application of the technology in production models. According to Ford, the registration serves to protect the intellectual property of new ideas, whose commercial viability still depends on traffic regulations and the interest of the end consumer.
