In an innovative move to enhance passenger safety, some Mercedes Benz models have been equipped with a system known as PRE-SAFE® Sound. This feature is part of Mercedes-Benz's broader PRE-SAFE® system, which activates when the vehicle senses an imminent collision. The key function of PRE-SAFE® Sound is to emit a short burst of "pink noise" through the vehicle's audio system just milliseconds before the impact of the crash.
Pink noise has a specific characteristic that makes it particularly useful in this pre-collision moment. It generates a sound across all frequencies, which triggers a natural reflex in the human ear known as the stapedius reflex. This reflex involves the contraction of a small muscle in the ear, the stapedius muscle, which then helps to protect the eardrum by temporarily reducing the ear's ability to hear. As a result, this reflex action can mitigate potential hearing damage caused by the loud noises typically experienced during a car crash, such as the sound of smashing metal or shattering glass.
This application of pink noise is a subtle yet powerful use of auditory science, aiming not just to preserve the structural integrity of the vehicle and the physical health of the passengers, but also to safeguard their hearing—an aspect of health that can often be overlooked in automotive safety technologies. The inclusion of this feature is a testament to how Mercedes-Benz continues to integrate sophisticated technology not only for luxury and performance but also for comprehensive safety measures. The use of sound to engage a physiological response is a prime example of the innovative approaches being utilized in modern automotive design to protect occupants in ways that extend beyond traditional methods. By offering such advanced protective innovations, Mercedes Benz not only enhances the safety features of their vehicles but also ensures a more holistic approach to the well-being of passengers in extreme situations.
