Blind Spot Information System

How does it work?

This technology uses sensors at points least accessible to the driver in order to detect potential hazards, for example vehicles in adjacent lanes that the driver cannot observe directly due to the blind spot. Normally, monitoring this blind spot requires the driver to turn their head slightly, which might pose a danger in many situations and may not be enough.

The most common use of this sensor technology on the sides of the vehicle is optimized to work at normal highway speeds. They will work with the car's turn signal to generate warnings when trying to change lanes and another car is beside or behind it. These sensors can be camera, ultrasound or radar, with a warning system that operates via audio, flashing lights, vibration or combination of these types of warnings.

Graphic showing blind spot monitoring in car side mirror

Pros

  • It is functional for lane changing, where many of the car collisions usually occur.
  • It optimizes the driver’s ability to react to unforeseen events generated by following vehicles or to make decisions based on what is monitored.

Cons

  • It is affected by speed. For example, motorcycles or very fast vehicles are more difficult to detect by some sensors.
  • System monitoring range varies by brand.
  • These systems require constant supervision and action from the driver.

Common names

  • Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
  • Active blind spot assist
  • Active blind spot detection
  • Advanced blind spot monitoring
  • Blind spot assist
  • Blind spot detection
  • Blind spot information
  • Blind Spot Information System
  • Blind spot intervention
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Blind spot monitoring system
  • Blind spot warning
  • Blind spot collision warning
  • Blind spot detection
  • Lane departure alert with side blind zone alert
  • Lane Change Assist
  • Lane Change Assist (Side Assist)
  • OEM 1 Side Assist
  • Intelligent blind spot detection

Latest Publications on PubMed

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