Currently, many car manufacturers are researching the use of airbags on the front bumper to protect pedestrians who are hit. Ford is a typical example of this.
The product range of Ford mainly consists of large SUVs or pickup trucks. Therefore, collisions with these vehicles often pose a higher risk to pedestrians.
In order to mitigate this situation, the American car manufacturer has recently filed a patent with the US Copyright and Patent Office to introduce an “airbag” system on the front bumper. This system aims to reduce the impact on pedestrians in the event of a collision with the front of the vehicle.
The system developed by Ford is referred to as the “inflatable front bumper”. It is designed to be installed both above and below the front bumper and functions similarly to a conventional airbag. In the event of a collision, the system rapidly deploys to cushion the impact.
In practice, the size of this airbag is relatively small and may not provide full protection to the person being hit. However, it helps prevent the person from getting trapped under the vehicle and reduces the likelihood of severe injuries.
Notably, the IIHS crash test and safety organization in North America has raised concerns about the frequency of accidents involving SUVs and pickup trucks. They urge car manufacturers to invest in research and redesigning the front end of vehicles to minimize the potential harm to pedestrians in the event of a collision.
Traditionally, off-road vehicles and pickup trucks are designed with a higher ground clearance to facilitate off-road driving. Therefore, the installation of airbags on the front of these vehicles requires careful consideration and study to ensure their effectiveness.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)