Mercedes QR Codes Could Save Lives

Quick Reference (QR) codes are practically everywhere and anywhere, we all know what they do, but don’t really use them much. But now, German car manufacturer Daimler AG is planning to incorporate QR code stickers to its Mercedes-Benz automobiles, as part of a push to support rescue operations in case of an accident.

The Mercedes QR codes are aimed to replace an automobile’s rescue sheet and show emergency responders how to extract and save occupants who are trapped in a vehicle.

Germany’s automobile regulatory body requires that all cars carry a copy of their schematics around, precisely in order to allow rescuers to dismantle the vehicle safely, without tripping any power line or airbag by accident.

But since the actual physical schematics may not always be available to rescuers, Daimler came up with the idea to use QR codes instead. The company said it would place two QR stickers on its vehicles: one on the back of the fuel door and the other on the roof support on the other side of the car.

Two different spots were chosen because it is very rare for both these areas to be affected in an accident and they are also easily accessible from the outside, Daimler explained.

So instead of trying to get to the glove compartment for the car’s schematics or of calling for details based on the registration plate, rescuers can simply scan the QR codes with a smartphone or tablet and they will be taken directly to a web page with the rescue sheet they need.

This method is significantly more time efficient and can help save lives, given that in an emergency, every second is precious, Daimler said. The company also said it has waived its rights to patent the idea, in order to allow other car manufacturers to use it for free.

The Mercedes QR codes will be available for all new vehicles but Daimler is also looking for ways to apply the technology to older models as well.

What do you think of Daimler’s idea? Would you like to see it enforced by other car manufacturers as well?

[Image via Wired]