Method for configuring a trailer detection system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for configuring a trailer detection system (10), wherein a trailer (12) is connected to a vehicle (14) via a coupling device (16), and wherein the trailer (12) comprises the trailer detection system (10) and a computing system (18), the method comprising the steps of: determining, by a vehicle integrated computing unit (20), that the trailer (12) is connected to the vehicle (14) via the coupling device (16) for data transmission; transmitting information about the coupling device (16) from the computing unit (20) of the vehicle (14) to the computing system (18) of the trailer (12); determining, by the computing system (18) of the trailer (12), configuration data of the trailer detection system (10) based on the information about the coupling device (16); configuring, by the computing system (18) of the trailer (12), the trailer detection system (10) based on the determined configuration data. The invention also relates to a trailer detection system comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle comprising the trailer detection system. Moreover, the invention relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the method. Furthermore, the invention relates to a data carrier signal of a computer program transmission. Moreover, the invention relates to a computer readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for configuring a trailer detection system, wherein a trailer is connected to a vehicle via a coupling device, and wherein the trailer includes a trailer detection system and a computing system.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a trailer inspection system having means for configuring the trailer inspection system to perform the steps of the method.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to trailers that include a trailer detection system.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer program including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method.

[0005] Furthermore, this invention relates to data carrier signals transmitted by computer programs.

[0006] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method. Background Technology

[0007] Essentially known are ultrasonic sensor devices for motor vehicles. These ultrasonic sensor devices are used, for example, in conjunction with parking support systems for motor vehicles. Such ultrasonic sensor devices typically include multiple ultrasonic sensors that can emit ultrasonic signals. Furthermore, the ultrasonic sensors can be used to receive ultrasonic signals reflected from objects or obstacles. In this way, objects or obstacles near the vehicle can be detected. Moreover, the distance between the vehicle and the object can be determined based on the transmission time between emitting the ultrasonic signal and receiving the ultrasonic signal reflected by the object.

[0008] The sensor signal is configured based on configuration parameters. These parameters can describe a threshold or threshold curve, against which the sensor signal is compared. When configuring the sensor signal, only the portion of the sensor signal above the threshold or threshold curve is considered. In cases where the ultrasonic sensor device is integrated into the vehicle during production, the configuration parameters are precisely determined for each vehicle model.

[0009] To ensure reliable detection, sensor units such as ultrasonic sensors must always be configured to accurately detect their distance from the ground and their angle relative to the horizontal axis of the ground, taking into account their distance from the ground.

[0010] German patent document DE102016115391A1 is a prior art document relating to sensor unit configuration. This prior art document describes the configuration of a sensor unit on a vehicle using a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone or smartphone). The aforementioned method is used to configure an ultrasonic sensor device for a vehicle. Here, configuration parameters stored on the control unit of the ultrasonic sensor device are adapted, thereby configuring the sensor signal of at least one ultrasonic sensor of the ultrasonic sensor device according to the configuration parameters. To adjust the configuration parameters, an adjustment signal is wirelessly received from a mobile terminal device external to the ultrasonic sensor device. This procedure is only applicable to sensor units directly mounted on the vehicle and is therefore not very flexible.

[0011] Generally, trailers are always required to be equipped with sensor units to extend the vehicle's detection system. However, each time a vehicle connects to a trailer equipped with a trailer detection system, the system must be configured to ensure accurate and reliable detection. Otherwise, there is a risk of accidents due to erroneous detections. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The object of the present invention is to provide a method for configuring a trailer detection system, a trailer detection system, a trailer, a computer program, a data carrier signal, and a computer-readable medium, which enables a trailer with a trailer detection system of unknown origin to be connected to a vehicle in a manner in which the trailer detection system reliably detects its trailer environment.

[0013] This objective is achieved through the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0014] In particular, the present invention provides a method for configuring a trailer detection system, wherein a trailer is connected to a vehicle via a coupling device, and wherein the trailer includes a trailer detection system and a computing system, the method comprising the following steps:

[0015] The vehicle integrated computing unit determines that the trailer is connected to the vehicle via a coupling device for data transmission;

[0016] Information about the coupling device is transmitted from the vehicle's computing unit to the trailer's computing system;

[0017] Based on information about the coupling device, the trailer's computing system determines the configuration data for the trailer detection system; and

[0018] The trailer's computing system configures the trailer detection system based on the determined configuration data.

[0019] Preferably, the order of the aforementioned method steps can be changed unless the aforementioned order is technically necessary. However, the aforementioned order of the method steps is particularly preferred.

[0020] In the following, the basic idea of ​​the invention and the various elements of the claimed inventive subject matter are explained according to their designations in the set of claims, and particularly preferred embodiments of the inventive subject matter are described below. Any interpretation is descriptive and preferred, but not limiting.

[0021] Therefore, the basic idea of ​​this invention is that, for trailers, there is a real-time configuration, preferably each time a trailer is connected to a vehicle, so that the sensor units of the trailer detection system can reliably detect it. The calculation and selection of configuration data are based on information provided by the vehicle. This information includes, in particular, the height of the coupling device above ground. Advantageously, parking functionality is available when the trailer is connected. In particular, it is a plug-and-play system, therefore requiring no modifications to the vehicle. This is also a cost-effective solution. It is possible to connect new trailers to vehicles with different numbers and locations of sensor units. The configuration data can also be updated subsequently, for example, if the trailer is loaded and thus its tilt changes.

[0022] In principle, this means that the trailer is connected to the vehicle via a trailer coupling. A trailer is an object that typically has a loading area for transporting goods but no drive unit of its own. A trailer coupling, also known as a trailer connector, is a device for connecting a vehicle to a trailer, wherein the coupling is a component of the vehicle. Depending on the type of towing vehicle and trailer, four exemplary but non-limiting types can be found: drawbar couplings common in agriculture and forestry; ball-end couplings common in motor vehicles; jaw couplings in trucks and tractors; and fifth wheels for semi-trailers. Less common are types using coupling hooks with corresponding eyelets. For example, the applicable regulations in the European Union are outlined in EC Directive 94 / 20. As a complete trailer coupling, this includes, for example, a trailer socket. Its main purpose is to ensure that the lighting equipment operates as required, so as to establish an interface between the trailer detection system or the trailer's computing system and the vehicle in the sense of this invention. Alternatively, this interface can also be provided, for example, via wireless transmission. In passenger vehicles, the connector carries a nominal voltage of 12 volts. Since the late 1980s, the 13-pin connector according to ISO 11446 has been mandatory, as have the 7-pin connector according to ISO 1724, and possibly the 7-pin connector according to ISO 3732, which can also be used for end-of-life vehicles. Adapters are available to connect these two mechanically incompatible systems. Additionally, there is the rarer Multicon connector according to Dutch NEN 6120, which is compatible with ISO 1724 and also includes contacts 8 to 13 of the ring-shaped 13-pin connector according to ISO 11446. The 13-pin connector according to ISO 11446 allows for one-handed operation and is operated via a snap-lock mechanism. This design allows for one-handed operation by rotating the connector clockwise by a quarter turn and pulling it out clockwise and counterclockwise without external pulling or pressure. The chosen snap-lock operation is also due to a spring element that surrounds each contact sleeve and increases the direct actuation force too much by pulling or pushing. In turn, the limited contact pressure and contact resistance on one hand, and any oxide layer on the plug contact pair on the other hand, are scraped off during actuation. A receptacle cover with a closing spring prevents it from loosening. The cover presses against a circular blank molded onto the plug, thus also preventing accidental loosening due to twisting. The housing is made of fiberglass reinforced plastic.

[0023] According to ISO 1724 or ISO 3732, 7-pole plug connections, and according to Multicon, 7+6-pole plugs, are disconnected and inserted by pulling and pushing. Depending on the contact pressure, significant pulling and pressing forces must be applied. The carrier plate of the trailer receptacle often bends if not held in place with the other hand. The receptacle cover acts as a protective device against loosening, its shaped teeth clamping behind the plug. The contacts consist of orthogonally slotted pins and a rigid sleeve. Contact pressure is achieved through the slotted pins. However, wear and misoperation reduce this. Reduced contact pressure and surface corrosion lead to unacceptably high contact resistance. Under high current loads, the connection overheats, causing the contacts to burn out and become permanently unusable. The housing is made of glass fiber reinforced plastic, die-cast metal, or sheet steel.

[0024] In any standard version, if it is unclear, the filing date of the earliest application document should be used.

[0025] Computing systems, or computing units, are typically electronic modules installed primarily where control or regulation is required. Computing systems are used in all imaginable electronic domains of the automotive industry, as well as for controlling machines, production lines, and other technical processes. They are embedded systems. In current vehicles, computing systems are interconnected via various system buses (CAN, LIN, MOST, FlexRay, Ethernet). These devices use them to exchange system-wide operational status information and other relevant data within the vehicle. Furthermore, on-board diagnostics or vehicle diagnostic systems are connected via such buses (and possibly K-line). This allows communication with the computing system from the outside using so-called diagnostic devices (or a regular personal computer with a suitable interface). The main concern here is whether the control unit detects and records any errors in itself or its connected sensors during continuous self-tests. For example, due to increasing complexity and software requirements, as well as the need for communication between computing systems, OSEK-OS has established itself in Germany as a real-time operating system and communication standard. Another measure is the increasing standardization of computing system architecture. Simultaneously, many computing systems are distributed throughout the vehicle in ordinary vehicles. Some modern luxury cars have over 100 ECUs installed. The range of microcontrollers used in computing systems extends from 8-bit to 32-bit computers. A microcontroller is a semiconductor chip that integrates both processor and peripheral functions. In many cases, RAM and program memory are also partially or entirely on the same chip. A microcontroller is a monolithic computing system. The terms System-on-a-Chip (SoC) are also used for some microcontrollers. Modern microcontrollers typically include complex peripheral functions such as CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Linux Local Interconnect Network), USB (Universal Serial Bus), I^2C (Internal Integrated Circuit), SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), serial or Ethernet interfaces, PWM outputs, LCD controllers and drivers, and analog-to-digital converters. Some microcontrollers also have programmable digital and / or analog or mixed-signal function blocks.

[0026] The terms "computing system" and "computing unit" are used interchangeably to designate a computing system for a trailer and a computing unit for a vehicle. In principle, this does not imply that a computing system is more powerful or complex than a computing unit, or vice versa.

[0027] The vehicle's integrated computer unit determines that the trailer is connected to the vehicle via a coupling device for data transmission, which is equivalent to trailer identification. Until now, tractor manufacturers have only implemented trailer identification for comfort reasons; for example, the signal can adjust the shift points of the automatic transmission and chassis. Therefore, vehicles with technology that detects trailers using plug-in connectors are preferred. On one hand, it is known that there is a switch in the socket that shuts off the rear fog light circuit in the tractor. The advantage of this method is its simplicity and traceability. On the other hand, it is known that when the ignition switch is turned on, the trailer control unit connected to the tractor's CAN bus measures whether the bulb is connected to the socket. To do this, short current pulses are periodically applied to the cable; existing incandescent bulbs significantly weaken the signal due to their inherent cold resistance. If the indicator lights, reverse lights, and rear fog lights, as well as the white reverse light, are connected to the socket, the trailer control unit will issue a trailer operation signal via the CAN bus. This allows, for example, the configuration to activate the trailer detection system, but also affects driving dynamics or transmission shift points.

[0028] Information about the coupling device, specifically its location, is transmitted from the vehicle's computing unit to the trailer's computing system. This means the vehicle's computing unit provides the necessary information for the trailer's computing system to determine the configuration data for the next step. The transmitted information should, in a way, allow the computing system to derive the trailer's location while connected to the vehicle, ensuring the trailer detection system does not perform erroneous detections.

[0029] The configuration data for the trailer detection system is then determined by the trailer's computing system based on the coupling device information. For example, the computing system can deduce from a given suspension height how the individual sensor units of the trailer detection system are positioned underground, specifically their height and angle relative to the ground. For example, after configuring the trailer detection system accordingly with the configuration data and correcting for erroneous detections, these values ​​can be used by the trailer detection system to perform distance detection. For example, the configuration data can be retrieved from a pre-installed database. This can be done from storage in the trailer, vehicle, and / or external cloud. The basis for selecting the configuration data is then the information previously transmitted by the vehicle's computing unit. As a more reliable or redundant alternative, a predefined algorithm can also be used to calculate the configuration data. Here, the basis for selecting the configuration data is also the information previously transmitted by the vehicle's computing unit.

[0030] The trailer inspection system is then configured by the trailer's computing system based on specific configuration data. Although the trailer may not have been connected to the vehicle before this method begins, the trailer's inspection system can now perform qualified and reliable inspections after configuration. In other words, any unknown factors that might hinder reliable inspection are eliminated by the trailer itself.

[0031] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0032] Information regarding the coupling device includes the measurement of its height above the ground. It has been found that the height of the coupling device provides particularly useful and helpful information about which configuration of the trailer detection system will be implemented and which configuration data should be used. For example, in the case of a rigid trailer, the position of each sensor unit can be quickly and easily determined using simple mathematical methods based on the height of the coupling device. Therefore, low-level data information provides high added value.

[0033] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0034] The trailer detection system includes one or more sensor units, at least one of which includes a sensor computing unit designed as a computing system, configured such that the sensor computing unit controls one or more preferred sensor units of the trailer detection system. This can be done according to a master-slave principle. Traditionally, most previous systems worked with computing units that individually controlled the sensor units and received and evaluated their signals. The master-slave principle described above is a cost-effective system where one sensor unit undertakes the tasks of the computing system, while other sensor units are controlled by a sensor unit acting as the master sensor unit. This reduces both cost and computing power.

[0035] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0036] The trailer detection system includes one or more sensor units, and the trailer's computing system includes a trailer computing unit. The trailer computing unit and sensor units are configured such that the trailer computing unit controls one or more, preferably all, sensor units of the trailer detection system. In addition to the master-slave principle described above, this option can be applied, or they can be applied completely separately. This additional option increases reliability in the event of a single component failure. In other words, the vehicle's computing unit does not need to perform the relevant process steps.

[0037] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0038] The vehicle-integrated vehicle detection system is activated by separating the trailer from the vehicle. This means that detection is always possible—either through the trailer detection system when the trailer is attached or through the vehicle detection system when the trailer is not attached. The sequential activation of the vehicle-integrated vehicle detection system until the trailer and vehicle are separated means that no signals are superimposed, thus preventing false detections. Furthermore, this reduces the required computational power.

[0039] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0040] The trailer detection system includes one or more sensor units, wherein, in order to determine the configuration data of the trailer detection system, at least one of the following is retrieved from the memory of the computing system of the trailer:

[0041] Types of trailers;

[0042] Number of sensor units installed;

[0043] The distance between sensor units;

[0044] The mounting angle of the sensor unit; and / or

[0045] Based on the location of the coupling device and the height of the sensor unit relative to its underground arrangement, these have been found to be relevant system inputs enabling reliable detection of the trailer. Ideally, all of these characteristics should be known. Alternatively, for example, to reduce computational requirements, knowing only some of these characteristics may be sufficient.

[0046] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0047] The trailer's computing system forwards distance information detected by the trailer detection system to the vehicle network via a communication interface. Therefore, the detected data or distance information can be used for standard driving operations. The distance information can also be used, for example, during parking operations. In other words, using this distance information, the trailer can be considered a component of the vehicle.

[0048] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0049] The computing system comprises a set of predefined possible configuration data based on height information. This is advantageous for enabling detection as quickly and reliably as possible. The system is therefore pre-learned. The height information can be an exact value or a range of values. Specifically, the height information can be physically contained within the computing system or extracted from an external cloud. In particular, this is a measure to reduce computing power.

[0050] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0051] The computing system calculates configuration data based on high-information calculations. This can be advantageous for performing detections as accurately as possible, as precise values ​​can be used without the need to store large amounts of data for these precise values.

[0052] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0053] The computing system configures the trailer detection system before instructing the vehicle on its availability. This ensures that the vehicle's driver does not perform any early driving actions that could lead to an accident due to the lack of a configured trailer detection system.

[0054] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0055] The trailer is a bicycle trailer, preferably not in direct contact with the ground. This method has been found to be particularly suitable for bicycle trailers because these trailers are typically close to the vehicle. Specifically, it is preferred that the trailer not be in contact with the ground. This means that the driver can extend the vehicle to include the trailer without having to make any permanent changes to their driving behavior. In other words, it is a fusion of two components, resulting in a fused detection system.

[0056] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the following is specified:

[0057] The trailer inspection system is an ultrasonic inspection system. It has been found that if a trailer inspection system is designed as an ultrasonic inspection system, it provides reliable detection. A single sensor unit is an ultrasonic sensor unit. The trailer inspection system may also be at least an ultrasonic inspection system, but it may also include other sensor technologies, such as cameras. Therefore, the ultrasonic sensor device may also include an electronic control unit, which is a computing unit that evaluates the sensor signals provided by the ultrasonic sensor. The electronic control unit is also used to control the ultrasonic sensor to emit ultrasonic signals.

[0058] The present invention also provides a trailer inspection system having means for configuring the trailer inspection system to perform the steps of the method.

[0059] The present invention also provides a trailer including a trailer detection system.

[0060] The present invention also provides a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method. A computer program is a set of instructions for performing a specific task designed to solve a particular class of problems. The instructions of the program are designed to be executed by a computer, and require the computer to be capable of executing the program to make it run.

[0061] The present invention also provides a data carrier signal for computer program transmission.

[0062] The present invention also provides a computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method.

[0063] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent and will be explained with reference to the embodiments described below. The various features disclosed in the embodiments may constitute an aspect of the invention individually or in combination. Features of different embodiments may be carried over from one embodiment to another. Attached Figure Description

[0064] In the attached diagram:

[0065] Figure 1 A schematic side view of a vehicle with a trailer for performing a preferred method according to the teachings of the present invention is shown, the trailer having a trailer detection system and a vehicle connected thereto;

[0066] Figure 2 The first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the vehicles and trailers; and

[0067] Figure 3 The second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the vehicles and trailers. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Figure 1 , 2 Figures 1 and 3 show the same structure as an exemplary configuration of vehicle 14 and trailer 12 connected thereto. Figure 1 Trailer 12 is exemplarily designed as a bicycle trailer. The coupling device 16, having a connecting element along height H, is a distance away from the underground 22 where vehicle 14 is parked. Figure 2 and 3 A block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the vehicle 14 unit and the trailer 12 unit according to the method of the present invention is shown. The trailer 12 can be any type of trailer 12.

[0069] Figure 1 , 2 Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the arrangement of a trailer 12, with the trailer detection system 10 connected to the vehicle 14 via a coupling device 16. The trailer detection system 10 is configured such that the configuration is performed by a method according to the invention. This method is particularly for configuring the trailer detection system 10, wherein, as already mentioned, the trailer 12 is connected to the vehicle 14 via the coupling device 16, and wherein the trailer 12 includes the trailer detection system 10 and a computing system 18. The method includes at least the following steps: determining, by the vehicle integrated computing unit 20, that the trailer 12 is connected to the vehicle 14 via the coupling device 16 for data transmission; transmitting information from the computing unit 20 of the vehicle 14 to the computing system 18 of the trailer 12 via the coupling device 16; determining, by the computing system 18 of the trailer 12, configuration data for the trailer detection system 10 based on the information regarding the coupling device 16; and configuring the trailer detection system 10 by the computing system 18 of the trailer 12 based on the determined configuration data.

[0070] Specifically, the information regarding the connecting device 16 includes the amount of its height H above the underground 22. This is only applicable to... Figure 1 As shown in the image.

[0071] according to Figure 2Following the exemplary embodiments, it is preferable to:

[0072] The trailer detection system 10 includes multiple sensor units, and the computing system 18 of the trailer 12 includes a trailer computing unit separate from the sensor units. The sensor units and the trailer computing unit are designed such that the trailer computing unit controls all the sensor units of the trailer detection system 10.

[0073] according to Figure 3 ,according to Figure 2 In an alternative embodiment, preferably, the trailer detection system 10 includes a plurality of sensor units, one of which includes a sensor computing unit designed as a computing system 18. The sensor computing unit is designed such that it controls all the sensor units of the trailer detection system 10.

[0074] Figure 2 and Figure 3 Four sensor units, which are part of the trailer detection system 10, are shown as examples.

[0075] according to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 Particularly preferred is that the vehicle-integrated vehicle detection system 24 is activated once the trailer 12 is separated from the vehicle 14. Due to the procedural characteristics of this sequencing sequence, only the vehicle detection system 24 is shown in the figure, and the method steps themselves are not shown.

[0076] Preferably, the trailer detection system 10 includes a plurality of sensor units, wherein, in order to determine the configuration data of the trailer detection system 10, at least one of the following is retrieved from the memory of the computing system 18 of the trailer 12: the type of the trailer 12; the number of installed sensor units; the distance between the sensor units; the installation angle of the sensor units; and / or the height H of the sensor units relative to the underground 22 based on the position of the coupling device 16.

[0077] In the example shown Figure 1 and exemplified Figure 2 and 3 In the process, the computing system 18 of the trailer 12 transmits the detection distance information from the trailer detection system 10 to the vehicle network through the communication interface. Figure 1 A coiled data cable 28 is shown between the computing system 18 of trailer 12 and the connection socket 26 of vehicle 14. Communication between trailer 12 and vehicle 14 is conducted via their respective communication protocols. A wireless connection as a communication interface to the vehicle network is also possible, but is not shown.

[0078] Preferably, the computing system 18 is intended to include a set of predefined possible configuration data based on height information. Alternatively or additionally, the computing system 18 may also calculate the configuration data based on height information.

[0079] The computer system 18 preferably configures the trailer detection system 10 before instructing the vehicle 12 on the availability of the trailer detection system 10.

[0080] like Figure 1 As shown, trailer 12 is preferably a bicycle trailer. Particularly preferred is that trailer 12 does not have separate contact with the ground 22. For example, trailer 12 does not include support wheels that stabilize the trailer on the ground 22.

[0081] Trailer detection system 10 is also Figure 1 As shown in the figure, and based on its arrangement, it can be assumed to be an ultrasonic detection system.

[0082] List of reference numerals

[0083] 10. Trailer Inspection System

[0084] 12 trailers

[0085] 14 vehicles

[0086] 16. Connecting device

[0087] 18. Computing System

[0088] 20 computing units

[0089] 22 Underground

[0090] 24 Vehicle Detection System

[0091] 26 Connecting socket

[0092] 28 Data Cable

[0093] H Connection device height above ground

Claims

1. Method for configuring a trailer detection system (10), wherein a trailer (12) is connected to a vehicle (14) via a coupling device (16), and wherein the trailer (12) comprises the trailer detection system (10) and a computing system (18), the method comprising the following steps: - determining, by a vehicle integrated computing unit (20), that the trailer (12) is connected to the vehicle (14) via the coupling device (16) for data transmission; - transmitting information about the coupling device (16) from the computing unit (20) of the vehicle (14) to the computing system (18) of the trailer (12); - determining, by the computing system (18) of the trailer (12), configuration data of the trailer detection system (10) based on the information about the coupling device (16); - configuring, by the computing system (18) of the trailer (12), the trailer detection system (10) based on the determined configuration data, characterized in that the information about the coupling device (16) comprises a quantity of a height (H) of the coupling device (16) above the ground (22).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the trailer detection system (10) comprises one or more sensor units, wherein at least one sensor unit comprises a sensor computing unit designed as the computing system (18), which is configured such that the sensor computing unit controls the one or more sensor units of the trailer detection system (10).

3. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the sensor computing unit controls all sensor units of the trailer detection system (10).

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trailer detection system (10) comprises one or more sensor units, and the computing system (18) of the trailer (12) comprises a trailer computing unit, which is configured such that the trailer computing unit controls the one or more sensor units of the trailer detection system (10).

5. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the trailer computing unit controls all sensor units of the trailer detection system (10).

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a vehicle integrated vehicle detection system (24) is activated by detaching the trailer (12) from the vehicle (14).

7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the trailer detection system (10) comprises one or more sensor units, wherein, for determining the configuration data of the trailer detection system (10), the computing system (18) of the trailer (12) retrieves from a memory of the computing system (18) at least one of: - a type of the trailer (12); - a number of installed sensor units; - a distance between the sensor units; - an installation angle of the sensor units; and / or - a height (H) at which the sensor units are arranged relative to the ground (22) based on a position of the coupling device (16).

8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The computing system (18) of the trailer (12) forwards the distance information detected by the trailer detection system (10) to the vehicle network via a communication interface.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The computing system (18) comprises a set of predefined possible configuration data based on the height information.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The computing system (18) calculates the configuration data based on the height information.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The computing system (18) configures the trailer detection system (10) before indicating the trailer detection system (10) availability to the vehicle (14).

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The trailer (12) is a bicycle trailer.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The bicycle trailer does not contact the underground (22) alone.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The trailer detection system (10) is an ultrasonic detection system.

15. A trailer detection system (10) having means for configuring the trailer detection system (10) by performing the steps of the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

16. A trailer (12) comprising a trailer detection system (10) according to the preceding claim.

17. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

18. A computer program product signal carrying data according to the preceding claim.

19. A computer readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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