Scientists Eliminate Blind Spots

New 360-degree view

A new device gives drivers a 360-degree view around the car.

Ever had a close scrape on the motorway because you didn't check your blind spot properly?

Well, that danger could soon be a thing of the past, as scientists have invented a new device that gives drivers a 360-degree view around the car.

The system works by utilising four cameras, one at each corner of the car, and processing the footage into a full three-dimensional image that is shown on a dashboard screen and updated in real time. It means that the driver will be able to instantly spot anything that encroaches into the car's blind spots.

It's the technology that processes the footage into a real time 3D image that's new, and it could be on the market as soon as 2011, priced between £500 and £1,000. It will be easy to incorporate into modern sat-nav systems too.

Developed by Fujitsu Laboratories, the technology will allow drivers to check the car's exterior from any angle, and will also help with tricky or tight low speed manoeuvres - though some are concerned that it will actually distract drivers rather than help.

“On a basic level it sounds like a good idea and anything that makes roads safer can only be a good thing but there needs to be serious thought as to how distracting something like it could be,” says a spokeswoman from road safety charity Brake.

What do you think of the new invention? Would you consider buying one? Should it be compulsory for all road cars? Or will it be too distracting for drivers?

Let us know by leaving a comment in the box below or share your thoughts with other readers in the 50connect forums.