GM Researching Windshields For Old Drivers

beuges writes "General Motors researchers are working on a high-tech windshield that users lasers and infra-red sensors to identify and enhance important objects for older drivers with vision problems. 'For example, during a foggy drive, a laser projects a blue line onto the windshield that follows the edge of the road. Or if infrared sensors detect a person or animal in the driver's path during a night drive, its outline is projected on the windshield to highlight its location.' And it's not only older drivers who will benefit: 'Some features would be helpful to drivers of all ages. If a driver is speeding, a pink box frames an approaching speed limit sign to draw the driver's attention.' The 65 and older population in the US will nearly double in about 20 years, meaning more people will be struggling to see the road like they used to."

Comments

Re:Why are they allowed to drive in the first plac

[excalibur4life]

Exactly. I mean, if someone needs technology like "headlights" to help them seeing at night, I don't want to drive anywhere NEAR them. Give me a dark, manly road any day.

Re:Just older drivers?

[arth1]

I think they would benefit more by learning to adjust the speed and how their vehicles actually handle in inclement weather.
Being able to better see the car in front of you isn't all that useful if you still aren't able to see the deer crossing the road. In fact, I think it could increase dangers, by making people drive faster than they otherwise would.

Re:Drive to conditions

[amRadioHed]

Using technology to compensate for human frailty is asking for trouble

So we should get rid of the engine then, right?