How Mercedes-Benz Is Using AR To Keep First Responders Safe

Rescuers at the scene of a car wreck face a host of difficult decisions, such as how to get the passengers from a twisted metal shell the most quickly and safely. Often, the solution involves cutting through the body of a vehicle whose doors no longer function. Once upon a time, that meant using a large saw to slice away the sheet metal, but now the times and cars have changed. With all the gadgets and devices in today’s cars, rescuers might cut into a damaged car only to hit a high-voltage wire, an undeployed airbag, electronics or even a fuel tank with disastrous results.

Mercedes-Benz makes it easy for first responders to see schematic diagrams of their cars using only their smartphones with a system called Rescue Assist. On every Mercedes vehicle can be found two labels bearing QR codes. When a rescuer scans the codes using a standard QR reader app, they see technical diagrams of the exact model car in front of them—including the locations of potentially dangerous components or systems. They can use this information to plan their rescue efforts in seconds. Currently, first responders must either use a data system onboard their vehicles to find schematics or they can “peel and reveal,” tearing trim from the damaged car to look for danger spots first. Rescue Assist can save valuable time in the process. Further, if rescuers use the Rescue Assist app, there is no need for an internet connection; the schematics come directly from the app itself.

All Mercedes-Benz vehicles are produced with the Rescue Assist QR code labels automatically. For those who own older models, QR codes can be installed retroactively on cars as old as 1990. This is a free service.

You can see all of the great vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz line-up by visiting Mercedes-Benz of Huntsville at 6520 University Dr in Huntsville, Alabama or by visiting http://www.mercedesbenzofhuntsville.com today!