Isbark.com

CarBuzz has discovered another new patent at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, filed by FCA/Stellantis, this one describing an underwater detection system that would be fitted to off-road-capable vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler. That’s quite clearly the vehicle depicted in the patent imagery, which portrays the idea that an off-road enthusiast would be able to ford a stream more easily and more safely thanks to the fitment of various sensors that would be able to detect the presence of sharp rocks, deep ruts, and other potentially unseen hazards that lurk within the murky waters often crossed by trail-hunting enthusiasts.

Sonar Or Lidar Sensors

The patent describes sensors that would detect the presence of water. These would be placed in an area where they would not be activated by rain or splashing, and their job is to determine the depth of the water that a vehicle is traveling through once it reaches a certain submersion level. Thereafter, an emitter and receiver of sound or light waves (sonar or LiDAR systems, the latter used in self-driving cars) would map the depth of the water, the slope of the ground, and any obstacles that may be hidden beneath the surface.

With the ability to map the unseen environment, the car could provide the driver with visual cues to help avoid obstacles that could damage the vehicle or cause it to get stuck. Interestingly, the patent suggests taking control from the driver, using the information from these underwater sensors to make self-determined adjustments to the steering wheel and throttle in real-time, making this a semi-automatic/partially autonomous system.

Another Way To Off-Road Like A Champ

This is effectively like hill descent control for bodies of water, where the vehicle could take over control of the steering and throttle to make slight adjustments that maximize the efficiency and safety of the crossing. Even hardcore off-roaders who know all the tips and tricks of safe off-roading know that it is impossible to determine exactly what lies beneath the surface from behind the wheel.

With this, the uncertainty of getting stranded is minimized. If one does get stuck, Stellantis has a solution for that, too, albeit only if you get stuck on dry land; a recent patent suggests an advanced burnout mode could help save your blushes on the trails.