New Ford Escape Uses Mirror for Quieter Ride

From Ford.com:

•Ford reduces wind noise in all-new Ford Escape by using an elliptical acoustic mirror to measure noise


•This is the first use of this technology to test wind noise in a Ford sport utility vehicle

•The mirror is like a satellite dish with a microphone placed a short distance from the Escape, traversing it lengthwise to collect sound

•Acoustic mirrors were a precursor to radar, intended to detect airplanes

When Ford engineers sought out innovative ways to reduce noise in the all-new Ford Escape, they looked in the mirror.
But these engineers did not look into any mirror; they focused their eyes on an elliptical acoustic mirror.
This high-tech device was used for the first time on Escape to reduce wind noise and deliver a quieter interior. The mirror resembles a satellite dish with a microphone. The mirror identifies “hot spots” where noise penetrates the interior of the vehicle, allowing drivers to listen to music or conversation inside the car instead of external noises.

This technology is deployed more commonly by European luxury vehicle manufacturers and is considered a breakthrough among U.S. manufacturers. The mirror measures noises on the surface of the vehicle and in the airflow.
 
Read entire article here.
 
Stop by Lakewood Fordland to see more of the quality vehicles Ford has created with innovation.