Google has patented a way for its self-driving cars to talk to pedestrians
The screens, which could be mounted on the doors or bonnet, would show signs such as "Stop," "Safe to cross," or a traffic sign, that would alert pedestrians to what the car is doing. This system is in place of a driver making eye contact or signalling to them.
The patent also outlines a speaker system that could communicate with pedestrians using alerts such as "coming through" or "safe to cross" if it is unclear who should go. There is also the suggestion of a robotic hand or eye that could make a pedestrian aware the car has "seen" them, according to The Post.
There are no sketches of how the system would work within the application, but it appears to be similar to a system Nissan showed off last month. Google applied for the patent in 2012.
Google recently announced that its self-driving cars had logged 100,000 miles on the open road with no accidents caused by it.
NOW WATCH: Easy ways to make your Mac run faster
- I got a $40K raise using this 30-second strategy. It made me realize loud work, not hard work, always wins.
- Qatar Airways' new CEO explains why it's sticking with the Airbus A380 as other airlines retire the costly superjumbo
- Prince Harry and Meghan found out about Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis on TV like everyone else, report says
- FPIs make remarkable comeback, infuse ₹2 lakh cr in FY24
- PM Modi and Bill Gates discuss AI, climate change, millets and more
- Consuming excessive salt and inadequate potassium, protein is making North Indians prone to life-threatening diseases: Study
- Upcoming cars and two-wheelers launching in India in April 2024
- Ice melt in Antarctica and Greenland is slowing Earth's rotation, affecting timekeeping: Study