Federal rules require new automobiles offered within the U.S. to have brake lights which might be clearly seen to the human eye, however a latest Ford patent submitting signifies the automaker is concocting a extra high-tech resolution.

The patent software, which was printed by the US Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) on Sept. 14, 2023, and filed in Might of this 12 months, is for an automatic brake mild detection system. Within the software, Ford claims this might assist enhance the efficiency of driver-assist methods and, doubtlessly, future self-driving automobiles.

Ford automated brake mild detection system patent picture

As described within the software, lidar and cameras might be used to scan the street forward, whereas software program would interpret the lidar readings and digital camera photographs to find out if a car’s brake lights are on. Ford additionally mentions day and evening modes, with totally different software program methods for detecting mild and appropriately figuring out illuminated brake lights.

Such a system might assist autonomous automobiles extra precisely decide when it is protected to maneuver, in accordance with Ford. It might, for instance, stop a automotive from accelerating if a visitors mild turns inexperienced, however the automobiles in entrance have not began shifting but. It is also useful if visitors lights will not be working or, in human-driven automobiles with driver-assistance tech, recognizing brake lights within the occasion the driving force will get distracted.

Argo AI self-driving automotive prototype

As with all patent filings, the concepts introduced right here might by no means make it to manufacturing. Ford shouldn’t be shy about submitting patent purposes. Different latest examples embrace an extendable cargo mattress for pickup vans and a roof-mounted EV backup battery.

Final 12 months, Ford launched its Latitude AI division to develop automated driving methods, which might make use of automated brake mild detection. The automaker can also be persevering with to refine its BlueCruise freeway driving help, so maybe automated brake mild detection will likely be used there.