Ford’s wearable tests look to link health data with driver assist

Researchers at Ford’s new automotive wearables experience lab are examining how to integrate wearables into the driving experience. A smartwatch can be an option for delivering vehicle alerts and reminders such as leaving a vehicle in parking with its door open or forgetting a key. When the vehicle starts, the watch can also share the users’ health and sleep information. The vehicle can then conduct a driver performance assessment and adjust safety settings appropriately. The vehicle’s adaptive cruise control technology can increase the distance between other vehicles to allow the driver more time to stop in case of a traffic incident if it detects that the driver isn’t well-rested.

The company’s researchers are also examining the potential to link vital health information to in-vehicle technologies, including lane-keeping assist and Blind Spot Information System. For semi-autonomous driving applications, the wearable can send an alert that the human driver is required to due to construction or an accident ahead. The ability to measure wakefulness and health data including blood pressure, blood glucose and heart rate via wearable technology also could benefit semi-autonomous driving features.

When connected with a vehicle, a wearbale has the ability to enhance the total driving experience.

“As more consumers embrace smart watches, glasses and fitness bands, we hope to develop future applications that work with those devices to enhance in-car functionality and driver awareness,” said Gary Strumolo, global manager for vehicle design and infotronics, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering.

“Wearable technology integrated with the vehicle allows for more accurate biometric data to stream continuously and alert active driver-assist systems to become more sensitive if the driver shows signs of compromised health or awareness,” added Strumolo.

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