Side impact protection system for automobiles that dramatically reduces risk of injury developed by German scientists

Amazing New Technology: Intelligent Side Impact Protection System

Does a car body that thinks intelligently and protects its occupants at the crucial moment seem like something out of a James Bond movie? Research scientists from the Fraunhofer Institute in Germany have developed an intelligent side-impact protection system that dramatically reduces the risk of injury.

This emerging technology utilizes radar sensors and cameras in the doors which can predict a lateral collision just milliseconds before the crash. The impulse from the central computer releases a surge of electricity that heats a wire made of a shape memory alloy. The heat bends the wire, which then releases a spring. The spring slackens and pushes a steel bolt, which is integrated in the seat, towards the door. At the same time a stable metal body in the door is brought into position to support the steel bolt thereby absorbing the impact of the collision.

This is yet another innovative way in which cars will be made safer in the future. As this is cutting edge technology, do not expect to see this feature for several years to come.