Ford Innovates with Sliding Center Console for Flexible Interiors
Ford’s Latest Patent for a Pet-Friendly Solution
Ford is breaking new ground in car interior innovation with its latest patent application for a sliding center console. The revolutionary feature is not only designed to cater to passengers but also considers the furry friends they travel with. This innovative console, detailed in a 2021 filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and recently published on March 19, goes beyond the typical cupholders by incorporating a dedicated holder for a pet’s water bowl. The standout feature of this console is its ability to slide back and forth, allowing for the positioning of drinks closer to specific seats, providing convenience and flexibility for all onboard.
Smart Monitoring System and Integrated Pet-Friendly Design
The patent also reveals a sophisticated monitoring system that keeps track of occupied seats and the whereabouts of pets within the vehicle. Through a controller, the console can autonomously adjust its position as required. Ford further suggests that pets could wear radio-emitting devices to aid in location tracking while freely moving around the cabin. Moreover, a capacitive sensor within the integrated pet bowl can gauge the liquid level, preventing abrupt movements of the console that could lead to spills.
Ford’s Series of Reconfigurable Interior Patents
This inventive sliding center console joins a series of recent patent filings by Ford focused on reconfigurable interior solutions. Notably, Ford has explored center consoles with deployable tables and reconfigurable seating layouts that accommodate forward and backward-facing arrangements without the need for physically flipping the seats. If brought into production, this pet-friendly console could potentially complement Ford’s integrated loading ramp patent, which aims to simplify cargo loading and unloading processes as well as assist pets in accessing the SUV’s rear cabin.
Conclusion
Ford’s commitment to redefining interior convenience and accessibility through patented innovations like the sliding center console showcases its dedication to enhancing the overall driving experience for both passengers and their furry companions. With a focus on adaptability and pet-friendly design, Ford continues to pave the way for versatile and practical automotive solutions.
FAQ
How does Ford’s sliding center console cater to pets?
Ford’s sliding center console includes a dedicated holder for a pet’s water bowl and features a monitoring system to track pets’ locations within the vehicle. The console can autonomously adjust its position based on the occupants and pets onboard.
What other reconfigurable interior solutions has Ford patented?
In addition to the sliding center console, Ford has patented center consoles with deployable tables and reconfigurable seating layouts that allow for flexible seating arrangements without physically flipping the seats. These innovative solutions aim to enhance interior functionality and convenience.
Will the pet-friendly sliding center console be compatible with other Ford patents?
If put into production, the pet-friendly sliding center console could complement other Ford patents, such as the integrated loading ramp for SUVs. The combined use of these patented features aims to offer a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for both cargo and pet transportation.
