Apple may have canned its Apple Car project, but it’s still being granted patents for automotive technology. The latest is patent number US 12043194 B1for a “Control System” for a vehicle.
About the patent
In the patent Apple notes that control systems may control the motion of objects within a compartment and absorb energy during an event that causes a sudden abnormal change in acceleration, speed, and/or direction of the compartment. Some of these systems are passive, such as restraining belts, mechanical components that crush or deform to absorb energy, and spring systems that allow motion of certain components in response to applied forces.
Some of these systems are active, such as inflatable bags that deploy to react the motion of objects in a controlled manner while absorbing energy. Apple’s patent involves a combination of the two systems. However, since there are no plans for an Apple Car, perhaps the tech giant will work with a current car manufacturer to implement such technology.
Summary of the patent
Here’s Apple’s abstract of the patent: “A system includes a body structure that defines a enclosure, a support system that is located in the enclosure, and a support structure that includes a top portion and an adjustable support assembly. The top portion is located adjacent to the support system, the adjustable support assembly includes actuators, and the adjustable support assembly is configured to move the top portion with respect to the support system.
“The system also includes sensors that are configured to generate sensor outputs regarding an environment outside of the system, and a controller that detects an event based on the sensor outputs. In response to the detection of the event, the controller outputs a control signal that controls the adjustable support assembly so that the adjustable support assembly moves at least part of the top portion away from the support system.”
