Futuristic windshield aims to help older drivers

Journal Entry #6

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/07/18/windshields.older.drivers.ap/index.html

Technology never stops developing; there is always something new and improved coming to the market. Despite the fact that it's still in the developing stage, everyday car windshields are no exception. This advanced and revolutionary technology improves visibility with infrared sensors, lasers, and a camera all in your car and a part of your windshield. This is specifically designed for the older baby boomer generation who will most likely need enhanced vision if they want to drive with their increasing age. General Motors seems to be the farthest ahead in the research and production phase of these windshields, but Chrysler has also confirmed they have been working to improve this field. Then Ford Motors announced they had no similar plans.

A key concept is to make the objects that are already in the driver's view stand out, not distract the driver with flashy information. I think having flashy details engulfing the windshield would be even more of a hazard, and the technology would be doing more harm than good. Specific examples include having a laser project a blue line onto the windshield, which follows the edge of the road. There are many factors that go into the creation of such a system, which is why it is still in the beginning phase of research. The projections depend upon the car's position, the object on the road, and the driver's head and visual movement. 

There are already similar versions out on cars now, with drop down displays. However the main difference with the newer windshields is that it would cover the entire area, not just a little drop down box. I think the elder population will embrace this new technology, since they grew up with the invention of machines such as the computer. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, currently 12.4% of the population is 65 and older, but by 2030 about 20% of the population will be over 65 (which is about 71.5 million people). They are the fastest growing driving population and they simply want to continue driving (http://redorbit.com/news/technology/1484316/new_windshield_guides_older_drivers/index.html).