Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new safety feature called Pre-Safe Sound, which utilises pink noise to protect passengers’ hearing in the event of an accident. Activated milliseconds before impact, the system emits a short, sharp sound through the vehicle’s speakers. This triggers a natural reflex in the human ear known as the stapedius reflex, which stiffens the smallest muscles in the ear to protect the eardrum from loud noises.
Pink noise, similar to white noise but with lower frequencies, is used as it is less harsh on the human ear. The sound is played at a volume of 80 decibels, just below the pain threshold. This innovation is a part of Mercedes-Benz’s broader Pre-Safe system, which prepares the vehicle and its occupants for an impending collision.
The Pre-Safe Sound system is currently available in select Mercedes-Benz models. This innovation is a testament to the brand’s commitment to passenger safety and comfort, even in the most severe circumstances. It is a revolutionary step forward in automotive safety technology, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to pioneering new safety measures.
Go to source article: https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/mercedes-benz/next/connectivity/pre-safe-sound-playing-pink-noise-in-the-split-second-before-impact/