GM has filed a patent application for a drone-assisted vehicle emergency response system capable of providing an extra layer of safety when off-roading or engaging in outdoor activities. The patent application was assigned patent number US 2024/0241520 A1 with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and was published on July 18th, 2024. The patent application was originally filed on January 17th, 2023, and lists three U.S.-based engineers as the inventors, including William C. Araujo, Russell A. Patenaude, and Luke J. Popiel.
The patent application describes a system that is designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of off-road vehicles via the integration of an aerial drone. This drone can be deployed to survey a target area and gather data during potential emergency situations, such as locating lost, stranded, or injured individuals, or identifying hazardous conditions in the vehicle’s path.
The drone is equipped with multiple sensors and communicates wirelessly with the vehicle’s processing system. When an emergency trigger occurs, such as a stranded person or hazardous condition, the drone is deployed to the specified region to gather data. Once the drone has collected this data, it is then relayed back to the vehicle for processing. This data could include environmental conditions like rough terrain, inclement weather, or obstacles.
Upon receiving the data, the vehicle’s processing system then facilitates a response. Possible responses include guiding the lost individual back to the vehicle, providing real-time updates and instructions via a mobile device, or providing a communication link to emergency services, guiding emergency teams to an individual in distress.
The drone can also identify non-emergency situations, such difficult terrain or impassable routes, allowing for route adjustments while exploring unknown territory.
For off-road enthusiasts, this sort of tech could be a useful addition to their arsenal of gear, providing an added sense of security while enjoying the great outdoors.
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Comment
Another unnecessary idea as the FAA will outlaw all drones used by non part 107 licensees.