Mercedes-Benz has published a new patent application that describes a system that could use cameras and machine learning to detect when a traffic light turns green, then automatically accelerate the vehicle from a standstill.
The idea is to remove the driver’s reaction time from the equation. According to the patent, conventional race-start technology still relies on how quickly a human driver responds, which can limit its performance. Mercedes’ proposed system would instead monitor traffic signals and identify the change from red to green.
The application also describes an algorithm designed to manage acceleration smoothly and maintain vehicle stability. Its examples include accelerating to around 40 mph from a standstill, as well as reaching speeds of up to 70 mph when joining a motorway from an entrance ramp.
It is an interesting concept, although the patent does not confirm that Mercedes plans to bring the technology to production. For now, it is just an idea.
Interestingly, General Motors has also patented an automatic launch control system. We reported about it earlier this month. It can also detect green lights, but on a drag strip!
Source: The Drive
