Ford previews two Lincoln concepts, details new lighting system
Ford has released details on its next-generation adaptive lighting system, which will debut on three Ford Motor Company concept vehicles at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. The photos published by the company also provide a glimpse of two of the company's forthcoming Lincoln concept cars. The identity of the first vehicle, pictured right, is unknown. The second vehicle, however, is believed to be the new Aviator crossover SUV. More photos of the concepts and details on the new Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) after the jump...
The unique Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) -- which will be a part of the two concept cars pictured -- allows drivers to see better around curves in the road than they do with current cornering systems. A third concept vehicle incorporates the latest in lighting technology - head-intensity light emitting diodes (LEDs) in headlights - with a unique style, underscoring the design possibilities of headlights.
AFS represents what could be an industry breakthrough in front lighting technology. Current cornering - or swivel - systems are made up of one-piece modules that turn as a single unit with the vehicle as it approaches a curve. It works much like a flashlight, lighting the area where the beam is pointed. When the beam is moved, the first area is left dark.
In contrast, AFS incorporates two independent light sources: a high-output halogen projector for the main beam and a secondary row of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that illuminates almost instantaneously, distributes the light beam evenly and consumes less power than conventional lights.
 |
"The way the optics in this system work together has not been seen before in the exterior lighting world,"? said Mahendra Dassanayake, staff technical specialist, Optical Electronics. "Besides being a beautifully designed light, the system allows drivers to take corners and curves more safely - and consume less energy while doing so."?
 |
 |
How it Works
The AFS brain, sensing when the vehicle approaches a curve, directs the row of LEDs to switch on sequentially, increasing the amount of additional light around the bend. As the vehicle turns, the LEDs illuminate at a rate and intensity determined by the degree and speed of the turn. Electronic sensors analyze inputs from the steering wheel and the vehicle speed to determine how and when to illuminate the LEDs. The LEDs automatically switch off when the road straightens out. Meanwhile, the main beam continues to illuminate the overall road.
"The result is more light, precisely placed,"? said Dassanayake. "We're not taking light from one spot on the road and moving it to another, as today's cornering systems do. We're adding light, making nighttime driving safer."?
Taking LEDs to the Next Level
Ford is among the first automakers to put high-intensity LEDs into production. Today, Ford uses LEDs in brake lights in nearly every current model. With AFS, Ford is showing how LEDs can be used in front lighting systems.
LEDs are the preferred technology for several reasons. While halogen bulbs take a fraction of a second to respond to an electrical input, LEDs respond almost instantly, giving valuable extra warning time to other drivers. LEDs are efficient, saving 200 watts of power and using up to 50 percent less electricity than halogen lights.
With leaner packaging than conventional lights, LEDs also create new possibilities for signature lighting, allowing more flexibility in design.