Ford Motor Company has filed a patent for a system capable of recharging and sanitizing cell phones that may be used in future Ford vehicles, Ford Authority has learned.
The patent was filed on March 29th, 2021, published on April 23rd, 2024, and assigned serial number 11964064.
The Ford Authority Take
Ford has long explored the concept of using vehicles as mobile sanitation solutions, filing patents for a UV light-based sanitation system, an air sanitizing apparatus, and a seat assembly with a liquid sanitizer system, to name just a few. Now, this newly filed patent keeps that trend going – albeit in a slightly different direction – by presenting us with an idea for a system capable of recharging and sanitizing cell phones that may be used in future Ford vehicles, too.
Cell phones are one of those things that tend to collect germs, and yet, few clean or sanitize them on a regular basis. Much of this can be attributed to convenience, as the process typically requires one to use a sanitizing wipe or spray to clean their phone. Thus, Ford proposes a far more convenient solution – making it possible to sanitize one’s cell phone while also charging it, which makes quite a bit of sense given the fact that wireless chargers are becoming quite common in newer vehicles anyway.
To accomplish both tasks, Ford proposes installing a wireless charger in a storage bin with a lid – such as the center console – that also has a tray inside. The system would utilize ultraviolet transmitters to then sanitize the phone while it charges, making for a super convenient way to ensure that germs are removed from that device every time it’s placed in the vehicle.
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