Ford patents system that senses filtering bikes

FORD has patented a new system that aims to alert drivers to filtering motorcyclists.

The patent proposes using cameras and other sensors – which are already installed in many modern vehicles – to detect the bikers and even intervene to potentially prevent a collision. Rear-facing cameras would combine with blind spot detection to perform the motorcyclist look-out function and initiate driver assist braking or steering if a motorcycle is detected.

As many of the sensors, cameras and driver assist functions already feature in today’s vehicles, this system could be quickly and easily retrospectively installed.

It would also go a long way to reassure motorcyclists and cyclists that semi-autonomous vehicles can actually ‘see’ them, as one of the major concerns with self-driving cars is they have an even more difficult time than humans detecting small, fast-moving objects.