Forget Self-Driving Cars, See Why Cognitive Cars Could be the Future of the Auto Industry

 Automotive  

Cognitive cars, and why they might be a bigger deal than self-driving cars. The technology offers an array of human-machine-interface and machine-to-machine interface options that hold a lot of promise for the future.

We’ve heard a lot about self-driving and driverless cars as of late, and naturally, many are convinced that this technology is the future of the auto industry. While this technology is impressive and promising, it is still a long way from becoming mainstream. However, designers and manufacturers are in the process of developing systems created to provide vehicles with the ability to learn, drive, repair and socialize with a driver, occupants and other vehicles. Known as cognitive technology, the components will offer an array of human-machine-interface and machine-to-machine interface options that hold a lot of promise for the future.

Enhanced Infotainment Systems

Various user-interface telematics might include dashboard touchscreen displays, steering wheels equipped with control buttons and central hardware control options located on the center console that respond to gesture or voice commands. The systems will also have the ability to identify individual drivers and occupants. Futuristic head-up displays projected directly onto windshields will provide navigational information or other pertinent data.

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Tactile Displays

Though convenient for passengers, touchscreen displays pose a threat to drivers when diverting vision from the road to the vehicle's interior. Tactus Technology Inc. proposes an interesting solution by incorporating on demand three-dimensional surfaces on lens covers. The effect is made possible using microfluidics, which involves moving liquid through small, encapsulated spaces. The technology would allow the presence of pop-up buttons, sliding levels or other control features allowing for operation without viewing the screen.

Control through ‘Telepathy’

Science fiction-esque features in the works include incorporating a vast database of algorithms that would link with a driver or passenger's thoughts and habits. Using thought processes alone, an individual might have the ability to turn musical components on/off, make channel selections or change music choices. The Freer Logic company predicts that the system is a mere two to three years away.

BodyWave brain wave monitor concept from Freer Logic

Upgraded Safety Technology

Scanning systems that identify facial features and eye movements will not only add to personalization but increase safety. BodyWave features would include biosensors embedded in a steering wheel to monitor brain activity through the electrical signals produced in the skin. By sensing and recognizing the difference between normal and abnormal driving behaviors, systems would recognize the difference between levels of alertness, drowsiness and stress while offering corrective measures or emitting audio/visual or tactile alarms. Sensors would also have the ability to evaluate environmental factors including traffic signs, road conditions and markings and the presence of living or inanimate objects.

Vehicle to Vehicle Communication

V-V technology would enable two vehicles manufactured by the same company, or even separate manufacturers, to share information concerning traffic, weather or other factors. If a vehicle begins having mechanical difficulties, a conversation with another vehicle might tap into an onboard database to seek the cause or a solution to the problem.

While few believe that fully-automated vehicles will not be available by the year 2025, nearly 20 percent of automotive CEOs feel that vehicles will offer consumers fully-automated environments. The systems would have the capability to handle numerous situations and allow drivers to perform a variety of tasks not related to driving. The information for this article was provided by professionals at the Speedy Apollo Auto Service Centre, who provide oil changes in Calgary.

By Dixie Somers

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Author Bio - Dixie is a freelance writer who loves to write about business, finance and technology. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.