In an era where self-driving cars are not a distant fantasy but a reality, a new patented technology by Drivent (US Patent number: US11789460B2) rises above the current technical glitches. Imagine a scenario where you've exited a store, arms laden with shopping bags and you realize that your smartphone's battery has died. The panic sets in as you realize your self-driving car won't be aware of your location in order to pick you up because it simply cannot communicate with your phone.
This is exactly the problem that Drivent's patent is geared to solve. The innovation aims to ensure a user can communicate with their autonomous vehicle, even when the primary device (like a smartphone) malfunctions, is lost or is out of battery.
Due to our increasing reliance on smart devices for navigation, a dead battery can leave users stranded and helpless, especially with the advent of driverless cars. This technology flaw has proven to be a drawback in the faster adoption and reliability of autonomous vehicles. However, Drivent's latest patent provides a glimmer of hope.
In simple terms, Drivent's system includes a series of backup mechanisms that swing into action if the primary device fails to communicate the pick-up location to the car. The vehicle management system can intelligently try to decipher whether a smartphone is simply turned off or its battery is dead by attempting communication. When a complete lack of response is encountered, it either assumes the inability of the device to send pick-up instructions, triggering a pick-up process, or waits until the device is turned back on.
The adoption of this patented technology could lend a great deal of convenience to users. We all can recall instances when we are locked in a place with no phone charging options, visualizing the dwindling phone battery - a modern lifeline - wondering how to get home. In such situations, this system could be a lifesaver, sending a vehicle to your last known location.
Moreover, this technology can predict when a user is likely to require the vehicle, referencing their habitual patterns or venue specifics. For instance, if the user's last known location is a movie theater, the system could estimate a pick-up time based on average film length.
Drivent's patent has the potential to bolster the convenience, usability and, most importantly, the practicality of self-driving cars, making them more reliable and bringing us one step closer to a world of autonomous mobility.
However, despite its remarkable potential, it's crucial to note that a patent is simply a blueprint on paper. The technology described may or may not hit the markets anytime soon and if it does, real-world performance may vary. Nonetheless, Drivent's patent offers an exciting glimpse into the future of autonomous travel.