Ford has filed an application with the US Patent and Trademark Office, in which it described a new system of external airbags. Similar technologies are allowed in the country as an additional system to protect pedestrians. According to the automaker, it will be possible to equip vehicles of almost any category with new airbags, regardless of the body structure.
According to the patent, an external airbag will be placed in the front of the car between the radiator grille and the bumper. When opened, the cushion will cover the entire hood, as well as the windshield wipers, which cause the greatest damage in a frontal collision.
According to the automaker, the external airbag can be used in most types of cars, including SUVs, pickups, and minivans. In addition, the new system is suitable for buses and even autonomous vehicles. The use of new technology will reduce the risk of injury to pedestrians by up to 40 percent.
Source: Motorauthority.com