Can Augmented Reality (AR) Prevent Car Accidents?
Originally published at www.vudream.com on December 1, 2017.
In America, cell phones cause over 1 in 4 car accidents. Texting while driving is a serious and growing problem. Fortunately, new technologies, like AR might be the key to solving our problems.
CES 2017 showed off the first holographic windshield to use augmented reality (AR). WayRay, a technology company in Switzerland, is trying to solve car safety problems with AR.
How Does it Work?
WayRay’s windshield contains two key hardware components:
- Holographic optical element
- Projection system
The holographic optical element (HOE) is applied into the windshield. Inside the car’s dashboard contains a compact projection system. WayRay’s HOE captures the images the projector sends and displays them onto the windshield.
“I was living in Moscow at the time, and I was driving at a low speed while also trying to adjust my brand new GPS. My attention got distracted just for an instant and I had my first ever car accident. The accident had a profound effect on me and I began to think about how the windshield is the perfect place to start when it comes to improving car safety. That began this remarkable journey and inspired the creation of WayRay.” — Vitaly Ponomarev, CEO
Why is it Important?
The main focus of WayRay is to make a safe and enjoyable experience. It all started with the CEO of WayRay getting into an accident. The accident occurred because he was trying to adjust his GPS. After this incident, he decided that he needed to find a solution to this problem.
When you drive, you should always focus on the road and WayRay can help with that. The windshield projects all the information you need without distracting you. Drivers don’t have to look away from the road.
WayRay, the windshield can display:
- Directions
- Map
- Incoming Text Messages
- Incoming Phone Calls
- Local Attractions
- Pedestrians
This will make your driving experience hands-free and helps you stay more focused on the road. WayRay’s device can potentially decrease car accidents, and make our roads safer.
Is it Just as Distracting?
There may be some skeptics who think it could be more detrimental to have the information in this form. The device is voice controlled and all the information is displayed in your field of view. These two functions make it easier for you to drive and stay focused.
The voice control keeps your hands on the wheel and the display keeps your eyes on the road. It is a lot less distracting than having to look away from the road.
Solving the Problem
To reiterate, 1 in 4 car accidents involve cell phones. Augmented reality is not the key to stopping all accidents. But, it will be able to prevent a reasonable number of accidents from happening. This is a positive step towards keeping you safe on the road.
Let me know what you guys think. Would this windshield be helpful for you?
Also check out WayRay at their website: https://wayray.com/industry/
