American car giant, Ford, is reportedly working on developing a new tech to improve pedestrian safety on its large SUVs and pickups.<\/p>\n
According to reports, the carmaker has patented an “inflatable bumper”. As per the patents, the front of the SUVs and pickups will feature two inflatable bumpers, one from above the traditional bumper and the second one positioned slightly below. The two behave similarly to traditional airbags, in that, upon sensing an impact the membranes will inflate immediately via pyrotechnic or gas inflators.<\/p>\n
However, the report also states that the “inflatable bumper” isn’t meant to cushion pedestrians. Instead, the upper inflatable membrane will provide support to the pedestrian’s knee to prevent a leg break, while the lower membrane helps prevent the person from going underneath the moving vehicle.<\/p>\n
The patent drawings clearly illustrate the tech on what seems to be a Ford F-150, clarifying the target models for the tech. The images also show that even with the inflatable bumper tech, there is still space or recess for tow hooks.<\/p>\n
Having said that, the tech is still in its patent stage and there is no confirmation yet whether or not it will actually make it into production.<\/p>\n