Apple patented low-visibility road sign recognition system for future electric vehicle

Based on the data in the published patent, we are talking about the technology of a new computer vision system. The principle of operation is to use a special emitter, which, in its work, is similar to the Lidar. It illuminates the surroundings with laser beams in a spectrum invisible to the human eye, and a special camera catches the reflected light from the signs, processes, and then transmits the information to the driver. Most likely, the information will be displayed on the display panel. The technology will be able to work in snowfall, heavy rain, and fog.

What is noteworthy is that the system is capable of recognizing not only signs but also the gestures of traffic controllers.

Often, emergency situations occur precisely because of such problems, when a driver driving on a straight road does not see, for example, an intersection sign. Technologies like these can help make driving safer. However, as is the case with other patents, it is not a fact that this one will reach the conveyor belt.

Authoritative analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently revealed that Apple’s upcoming electric car will be built on the Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).