Ford has revealed a novel system, discovered by the media at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, which repurposes existing vehicle hardware to transform cars into gaming hubs when not in motion.
This innovative setup utilizes the headlights as projectors for gaming imagery while existing car hardware or compatible devices like smartphones and PlayStation controllers control gaming functions.
While gaming in cars is not a new concept, with Tesla pioneering the idea and other automakers like BMW following suit, Ford’s approach brings a unique twist to the table. The key differentiator lies in the significantly expanded screen area enabled by utilizing high-definition Matrix LED headlights.
These advanced headlights can project crisp images onto flat surfaces, drawing inspiration from technologies like Mercedes’ Digital Light system. Ford envisions using low-beam intensity to project imagery onto roads or parking lots, while high beams could deliver even sharper images when projected onto nearby flat walls.
The patent also accounts for adjusting projections to compensate for challenging lighting conditions like fog or rain.
The primary objective behind this innovation is to provide all passengers with a clearer gaming experience, overcoming the limitations of existing cabin displays predominantly oriented towards the driver or front passenger.
By projecting a large image ahead of the vehicle, Ford aims to ensure that all occupants can participate in gaming activities during journeys.
The patent outlines various gaming possibilities, with controls adaptable to existing car features such as the steering wheel, touchscreen displays, or buttons.
While advanced gaming scenarios like racing games controlled via a steer-by-wire system are conceivable, the focus remains on simpler games for practicality. For instance, a game like Tetris could be controlled using a single control, leveraging functionalities akin to those of the adaptive cruise control system.
To prioritize safety, the gaming system is designed to automatically deactivate once the vehicle starts moving, reactivating only when deemed safe and stationary.
While initially intended to alleviate boredom during electric vehicle recharging, the rapid advancements in recharging technology may diminish the viability of this concept for production. Nevertheless, as evidenced by the integration of TikTok in cars, unexpected innovations can find their place in the automotive industry.
Also read: Ford F-150 Electric Pickup Set To Challenge Pikes Peak Race Record
