Yanking the doors off a Ford Bronco isn’t too difficult, and it’s a great way to have a more involving off-road experience. It’s not as great cruising at speed down the highway, and while you could install some tube doors, that’s a lot of work for a more secure open-air driving experience. Based on this recently published patent for deployable screen doors, it appears Ford is thinking about ways to improve the experience. The patent was originally filed back in October 2020, not long after the debut of the Bronco with its removable doors. The vehicle used for the patent images doesn’t resemble the Bronco, but we can’t help thinking Ford had its reborn Jeep Wrangler competitor clearly in mind with this idea. In short, it’s a network of screens that can deploy either automatically or at the command of the driver. Motors move the screens into position, and it’s not just for doors. The patent also talks about screens for removable roof panels, though we’re not sure why anyone would favor that over clear, unobstructed skies.
The Benefits of Deployable Screen Doors
Screens over open doors can certainly offer a bit more security to driver and passengers afraid of falling out, but Ford also hints at a larger safety aspect with the patent. The screens are extended and retracted with electric motors, but a pyrotechnic device could also be used to literally blast them into place if an impact event is detected. Presumably, sensors would confirm that arms, legs, or fingers aren’t in the openings before setting them off. And it’s not clear how fast they would need to deploy to be effective. In short, Ford has patented electrically deployable, explodable screen doors. Will this feature appear on future vehicles? As always, many patents are filed just to protect ideas that never come to fruition. That said, deployable screens seem like a great idea for door cavities. Adding a pyrotechnic charge to blow them into place during a crash? We’re still mulling that part over.
The Potential Impact on the Off-Roading Experience
Off-road enthusiasts are always looking for new ways to enhance their experience, and the idea of deployable screen doors could be a game-changer. Not only would it provide added security for passengers, but it could also offer protection from debris while still allowing for the exhilarating open-air feeling that off-roading provides. The ability to deploy or retract the screens at the touch of a button would make it easy to adapt to changing conditions on the trail, adding convenience to the off-road experience.
The Possible Applications Beyond Off-Roading
While the initial focus of the patent seems to be on improving the off-roading experience, deployable screen doors could have applications beyond just recreational vehicles. For example, they could be used in urban areas where theft or vandalism is a concern, providing an added level of security while still allowing for ventilation and visibility. In emergency situations, such as a car accident, the deployable screens could offer protection from broken glass or other debris, reducing the risk of injury for occupants. Overall, the potential applications of this technology are vast and could have a significant impact on the automotive industry as a whole.
The Technological Challenges and Considerations
While the idea of deployable screen doors is exciting, there are several technological challenges and considerations that need to be addressed before this concept can be implemented successfully. For example, the speed at which the screens deploy in the event of a crash will be crucial in determining their effectiveness in protecting occupants. Additionally, the reliability and durability of the electric motors and pyrotechnic devices must be thoroughly tested to ensure that they will function as intended in any situation. Furthermore, the cost of implementing this technology will need to be carefully considered, as it could potentially add a significant amount to the overall price of the vehicle.
The Future of Automotive Safety and Innovation
Overall, the concept of deployable screen doors represents an exciting step forward in automotive safety and innovation. By combining the convenience of removable doors with the added security of deployable screens, Ford has the potential to revolutionize the off-road and urban driving experience. While there are still many challenges to overcome, the possibilities offered by this technology are endless. Only time will tell if Ford will move forward with implementing deployable screen doors in their vehicles, but one thing is for sure – the future of automotive safety is looking brighter than ever.