Image source: USPTO
In the past few months, Ford has applied for a number of patents related to the steering wheel, such as a device equipped with virtual control and a heated steering wheel with multiple heaters. This new patent pays more attention to the future of autonomous vehicle. As Ford continues to invest heavily in autonomous driving technology, the company has applied for more patents in this field than other carmakers.
The patent describes a car that can retract the steering wheel and pedals. In traditional cars, this feature may seem useless. However, in the future, when a fully autonomous vehicle is driving on the street, the system can provide additional space to benefit people sitting in the driver's seat (or non vehicle controllers).
In this case, a series of motors will move the pedal and steering wheel away when not needed. This function may be activated automatically when the vehicle is in automatic driving mode. Of course, there is still some way to go to fully realize automatic driving. When that day comes, this particular patent may play an important role in the real world.