Aging Suit to help in Design
An interesting article was on msnbc.com today. It is about engineers at automakers using an aging suit to help them design a car for the older drivers that may have some ailments. The aging suit being used by Nissan is a “cumbersome, strap-on outfit that gives young auto designers the feel of driving with a bulging belly, arthritic joints, and shaky balance.” The suit also has goggles which distort color and mimic the effects of cataracts. Ford has a suit that they call the “Third Age Suit” that simulates aging as well. GM is working on a high-tech windshield designed to enhance a driver’s view. The suits actually limit turning your neck and bending your elbows, knees, and ankles. This is a neat way to try to design vehicles for the 65 and older driver. Obviously, many would not need these added features but lots of people could use them in the future for sure. I think this is a very smart idea by the automakers. The trend is changing and there are more people over 65, so finding a car to suit them is a good idea.