Trailer hook device, control method thereof, electronic device, storage medium and vehicle

Abstract

The application discloses a trailer hook device and a control method thereof, electronic equipment, a storage medium and a vehicle, relates to the technical field of vehicles, and aims to solve the problem of vehicle shaking caused by a towed object during towing. The trailer hook device comprises a trailer hook assembly and a driving assembly. The trailer hook assembly is adapted to be movably connected to a vehicle, and the driving assembly is adapted to drive the trailer hook assembly to move relative to the vehicle, so as to reduce the shaking of the vehicle during towing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more particularly to a trailer hitch device and its control method, electronic equipment, storage medium, and vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] As the number of cars on the road increases, their functions are becoming more and more diversified. Vehicles are often equipped with trailer hitches, which can tow luggage carts along with the vehicle or tow stranded vehicles to a safe area.

[0003] Trailer systems typically include a trailer hitch located at the front of the vehicle and a trailer hook located at the rear of the vehicle. The trailer hook can be used to connect to the trailer hitch of the towed object so that the vehicle can move the towed vehicle.

[0004] However, since the towed object cannot control its direction on its own, it will swing irregularly during the journey, thus affecting the driving posture and comfort of the main vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a trailer hitch device and its control method, electronic equipment, storage medium and vehicle, which aims to solve the problem of vehicle shaking caused by the towed item during towing.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a trailer hitch device, which may include a trailer hitch assembly and a drive assembly. The trailer hitch assembly is adapted to be movably connected to a vehicle, and the drive assembly is adapted to drive the trailer hitch assembly to move relative to the vehicle in order to reduce the vibration of the vehicle during towing.

[0008] The trailer hitch device provided in this application can drive the trailer hitch assembly to move relative to the vehicle through the drive component, so as to counteract the impact of the swing of the towed object on the vehicle, thereby reducing vehicle vibration and improving the comfort of vehicle driving.

[0009] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch assembly may be adapted to be movably connected to the vehicle along the width direction of the vehicle, and the drive assembly may be adapted to drive the trailer hitch assembly to move relative to the vehicle along the width direction of the vehicle to reduce vehicle vibration along the width direction.

[0010] This reduces the impact of the towed object's swaying on the vehicle along its width during towing, thereby reducing vehicle vibration and improving the driving experience.

[0011] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch assembly may further include a crossbeam adapted to be fixed to the vehicle and extending along the width of the vehicle, and a drive assembly adapted to drive the trailer hitch assembly to move along the crossbeam.

[0012] In this way, the crossbeam can provide guidance for the trailer hitch assembly, allowing the trailer hitch assembly to move relative to the crossbeam to counteract the swaying of the towed object, thereby reducing vehicle vibration.

[0013] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch assembly may include a slider and a trailer hitch connected to the slider, wherein the slider is slidably connected to a crossbeam, a drive assembly is connected to the slider, and the drive assembly is adapted to drive the slider to slide along the crossbeam and drive the trailer hitch to move along the crossbeam.

[0014] In this way, the drive assembly can drive the slider to slide along the crossbeam and drive the trailer hook to move along the crossbeam, thereby counteracting the swaying of the towed object and reducing vehicle vibration.

[0015] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch assembly may further include a switching element that can be connected between the slider and the trailer hitch, the switching element allowing the trailer hitch to switch between an extended state and a retracted state relative to the slider.

[0016] When the sliding element is in the extended state, the tow hook can be used to connect with the towed object, allowing the towed object to move with the vehicle. When the towed object is not needed, the switching element can switch the towed object to the retracted state. This allows the tow hook to be retracted when not in use, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance for the vehicle and preventing the exposed tow hook from increasing the risk of damage to the vehicle in the event of a collision.

[0017] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch may include a connecting arm and a trailer part, wherein the two ends of the connecting arm in the extension direction are a first end and a second end, the first end is connected to a switching member, and the trailer part is disposed at the second end; when the trailer hitch is in the extended state, the extension direction of the connecting arm intersects with the crossbeam, and when the trailer hitch is in the retracted state, the extension direction of the connecting arm is parallel to the crossbeam.

[0018] When the trailer hitch is in the extended state, the extension direction of the connecting arm intersects with the crossbeam, which increases the distance between the crossbeam and the trailer. When the trailer hitch is in the retracted state, the extension direction of the connecting arm is parallel to the crossbeam, which makes the vehicle look more aesthetically pleasing and prevents the trailer hitch from protruding from the crossbeam, thus preventing increased damage to the vehicle in the event of a collision.

[0019] In some embodiments, the switching element can be a rotating element that allows the trailer hook to rotate relative to the sliding element between an extended state and a retracted state.

[0020] In this way, the trailer hook can rotate relative to the sliding part, allowing it to flexibly switch between the extended and retracted states by rotation, making operation simple and convenient.

[0021] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch assembly may further include a locking structure for locking the trailer hitch to keep it in the deployed state.

[0022] In this way, when the trailer hook needs to tow an object, the locking mechanism can lock the trailer hook to keep it in the extended state, preventing the towed object from swinging due to the trailer hook rotating between the extended and retracted states.

[0023] In some embodiments, the trailer hook device may further include a storage box, and the drive assembly is further configured to drive the trailer hook to slide along the crossbeam into the storage box, and the trailer hook is in a stored state when it is located in the storage box.

[0024] In this way, when the vehicle is not in a towing task, the trailer hitch is in a retracted state. The storage box allows the trailer hitch to be hidden under the vehicle, increasing the vehicle's aesthetics.

[0025] In some embodiments, the storage box may include a first sidewall and a second sidewall that are opposite to and spaced apart, forming a storage space between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. Before the trailer hitch enters the storage box, the trailer hitch is in the extended position, with the direction from the first end to the second end aligned with the direction from the first sidewall to the second sidewall, and along the extension direction of the crossbeam, the storage space is opposite to the first end. As the drive assembly drives the trailer hitch to slide along the crossbeam into the storage space, the second sidewall presses against the connecting arm, causing the trailer hitch to rotate from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0026] The storage space can be used to store the trailer hook. Thus, when the drive assembly drives the trailer hook to slide along the crossbeam into the storage space, the drive assembly drives the slider to slide into the storage space. Since the trailer hook is in the unfolded state, the trailer hook cannot directly enter the storage space. The second side wall applies a squeezing force to the connecting arm, which can cause the rotating part to rotate, thereby causing the trailer hook to rotate from the unfolded position to the stored position.

[0027] In some embodiments, before the trailer hitch enters the storage box, the end of the first sidewall facing the trailer hitch is the third end, and the end of the second sidewall facing the trailer hitch is the fourth end; a first guide surface is provided between the inner wall surface of the first sidewall and the end face of the third end, and a second guide surface is provided between the inner wall surface of the second sidewall and the end face of the fourth end.

[0028] In this way, during the process of the trailer hook entering the storage space, the first guide surface and the second guide surface can guide the trailer hook, so that the trailer hook can enter the storage space more smoothly, and avoid the angle between the inner wall surface of the second side wall and the end face of the fourth end from obstructing and damaging the trailer hook.

[0029] In some embodiments, the storage box may further include a bottom wall connected between the first side wall and the second side wall; before the trailer hitch enters the storage box, the end of the bottom wall facing the trailer hitch is the fifth end, and the end of the bottom wall away from the trailer hitch is the sixth end; from the fifth end to the sixth end, the inner wall surface of the bottom wall gradually extends upward.

[0030] When the tow hook enters the storage box, as the inner wall of the bottom gradually extends upward, the tow hook gradually rises. This increases the gap between the tow hook and the ground, thus preventing the tow hook from catching foreign objects during driving and interfering with the driving process.

[0031] Secondly, this application also provides a control method for a trailer hitch device, which may include: acquiring motion posture information of a vehicle; and, based on the motion posture information, controlling a drive component in the trailer hitch device to drive the trailer hitch component to move relative to the vehicle.

[0032] In this way, by using the motion posture information, the offset between the towed object and the vehicle can be determined, and the trailer hitch device can be controlled. By driving the movement of the trailer hitch assembly, some of the offset interference to the vehicle can be offset, thereby reducing the vibration of the vehicle during towing and improving the driving experience.

[0033] In some embodiments, controlling the drive component in the trailer hitch assembly to move relative to the vehicle based on motion posture information may include: controlling the drive component in the trailer hitch assembly to move along a crossbeam in the trailer hitch assembly based on motion posture information, the crossbeam being adapted to be fixed to the vehicle.

[0034] In this way, the crossbeam can provide guidance for the trailer hitch assembly, and the drive assembly drives the trailer hitch assembly to move relative to the crossbeam to offset part of the offset between the towed object and the vehicle, thereby reducing vehicle vibration.

[0035] In some embodiments, the method may further include: acquiring rear-view image information of the vehicle; determining the position of the trailer hitch of the towed object based on the rear-view image information; and controlling the vehicle to move based on the position of the trailer hitch so that the vehicle's trailer hook approaches the trailer hitch.

[0036] In this way, the position of the trailer hitch can be obtained through the rear-view camera information, and the vehicle movement can be controlled through the vehicle driving system to bring the trailer hook close to the trailer hitch of the towed object.

[0037] In some embodiments, the method may further include: obtaining the relative positional relationship between the trailer hook and the trailer hook; and, based on the relative positional relationship, controlling the drive component in the trailer hook device to drive the trailer hook assembly to move so as to engage the trailer hook with the trailer hook.

[0038] Based on this relative positional relationship, it can be determined whether the positions of the trailer hook and the trailer hook have reached the docking position range. Once the docking position range is reached, the drive component in the trailer hook device is controlled to drive the trailer hook component to move and adjust the position of the trailer hook so as to dock the trailer hook and the trailer hook.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method may further include: in response to detecting that the towed object is disconnected from the trailer hitch assembly, controlling a drive component in the trailer hitch device to drive the trailer hitch assembly to move, so as to store the trailer hitch assembly in a storage box of the trailer hitch device. This allows the trailer hitch to be stored in the storage box when towing is not required.

[0040] In some embodiments, the method may further include: in response to detecting that an emergency safety event has occurred or is about to occur in the vehicle, controlling the disconnection of the towed object from the vehicle.

[0041] When a vehicle detects that an emergency safety event has occurred or is about to occur, such as a rollover, skidding, or collision, it can control the connection between the towed object and the vehicle to disconnect, reducing potential damage to the main vehicle and improving the vehicle's safety and stability.

[0042] Thirdly, this application provides an electronic device including a processor and a memory connected to the processor, the memory being used to store computer instructions, which are loaded and executed by the processor to enable the electronic device to implement the method described in the second aspect above.

[0043] Fourthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method described in the second aspect.

[0044] Fifthly, this application provides a vehicle that includes the trailer hitch device of the first aspect, the electronic equipment of the third aspect, or the computer-readable storage medium of the fourth aspect.

[0045] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a computer program product including computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method described in the second aspect.

[0046] The beneficial effects of the second to sixth aspects mentioned above are described in the corresponding description of the first aspect and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a trailer hitch device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a storage box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the trailer hitch in its retracted state;

[0051] Figure 4 This is one of the schematic diagrams of a control method for a trailer hitch device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 5 A control principle diagram of a trailer hitch device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 7 This is the third schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 8 This is the fourth schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 9 Fifth schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device provided in this application embodiment;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0058] Reference numerals: 100, trailer hitch device;

[0059] 1. Trailer hook assembly; 11. Sliding component; 12. Trailer hook; 121. Connecting arm; 1211. First end; 1212. Second end; 122. Trailer section; 13. Switching component; 13A. Rotating component;

[0060] 2. Drive components; 3. Crossbeam;

[0061] 4. Installation Department; 41. First Installation Department; 42. Second Installation Department;

[0062] 5. Storage box; 501. First guide surface; 502. Second guide surface; 503. Third end; 504. Fourth end; 505. Fifth end; 506. Sixth end; 51. First side wall; 52. Second side wall; 53. Bottom wall;

[0063] 200. Processor;

[0064] 201. Memory; 202. Processor; 203. Communication interface; 204. Bus. Detailed Implementation

[0065] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0066] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or relative positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Unless otherwise specified, the above-described orientation can be flexibly set in practical applications, provided that the relative positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings is satisfied.

[0067] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0068] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "communication" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. They can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a communication between the internal components of two elements. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0069] In embodiments of the invention, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0070] In embodiments of the present invention, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in embodiments of the present invention should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Rather, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0071] As the number of cars on the road increases, their functions are becoming more and more diversified. Vehicles are often equipped with trailer hitches, which can tow luggage carts along with the vehicle or tow stranded vehicles to a safe area.

[0072] Trailer systems typically include a trailer hitch located at the front of the vehicle and a trailer hook located at the rear of the vehicle. The trailer hook can be used to connect to the trailer hitch of the towed object so that the vehicle can move the towed vehicle.

[0073] However, since the towed object cannot control its direction on its own, it will swing irregularly during the journey, thus affecting the driving posture and comfort of the main vehicle.

[0074] Based on this, the present application provides a trailer hitch device, which is movably connected to a vehicle via a trailer hitch assembly, so that the trailer hitch assembly moves relative to the vehicle when the towed object swings, thereby reducing the impact of the towed object's swing on the vehicle.

[0075] The embodiments provided in this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0076] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a trailer hitch device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. The trailer hitch device 100 may include a trailer hitch assembly 1, which can be movably connected to a vehicle. The trailer hitch assembly 1 is used to connect with a towed object so that the towed object can move with the movement of the vehicle.

[0077] Since the trailer hitch assembly 1 is connected to the vehicle, when the towed object swings irregularly, the trailer hitch assembly 1 can move relative to the vehicle, thereby reducing the shaking of the vehicle itself caused by the swinging of the towed object.

[0078] If the towed object swings significantly, and the trailer hitch assembly 1 moves with the towed object, it will still cause the vehicle to shake, and may reduce the lifespan of the trailer hitch assembly 1 and increase wear. Therefore, the trailer hitch device 100 provided in this application embodiment may also include a drive assembly 2, which can drive the trailer hitch assembly 1 to move relative to the vehicle.

[0079] In this way, the drive component 2 can move the trailer hook component 1 relative to the vehicle to counteract the impact of the towed object's swaying on the vehicle, thereby reducing vehicle vibration and improving driving comfort. In addition, the trailer hook component 1 will not follow the towed object's irregular swaying, and can limit the trajectory of the towed object to reduce its swaying.

[0080] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hitch assembly 1 can be movably connected to the vehicle along the vehicle width direction, and the drive assembly 2 can drive the trailer hitch assembly 1 to move along the vehicle width direction.

[0081] This reduces the impact of the towed object's swaying on the vehicle along its width during towing, thereby reducing vehicle vibration and improving the driving experience.

[0082] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hitch device 100 may further include a crossbeam 3, which may be fixedly connected to the vehicle and extends along the width direction of the vehicle, and the drive assembly 2 is used to drive the trailer hitch assembly 1 to move along the crossbeam 3.

[0083] In this way, the crossbeam 3 can provide guidance for the trailer hook assembly 1, allowing the trailer hook assembly 1 to move relative to the crossbeam 3 to counteract the swaying of the towed object, thereby reducing vehicle vibration.

[0084] In one possible structural design, the drive assembly 2 can be connected to the crossbeam 3, and the drive assembly 2 can move relative to the crossbeam 3 in the vehicle width direction to drive the trailer hitch assembly 1 to move in the vehicle width direction.

[0085] In another possible structural design, the trailer hook assembly 1 can be connected to the crossbeam 3, and the drive assembly 2 drives the trailer hook assembly 1 to move on the crossbeam 3, thereby allowing the trailer hook assembly 1 to move along the width direction of the vehicle.

[0086] In some embodiments, the crossbeam 3 is provided with a mounting part 4, which can be used to fix the crossbeam 3 to the vehicle so that the trailer hitch assembly 1 can move relative to the vehicle.

[0087] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 4 may include a first mounting portion 41 and a second mounting portion 42, which are respectively disposed at opposite ends of the crossbeam 3. This provides two mounting points for the crossbeam 3, making the trailer hook device 100 more securely installed.

[0088] In addition, the first mounting part 41 and the second mounting part 42 are provided at both ends of the trailer hook assembly 1, which can prevent the mounting part 4 from interfering with the movement of the trailer hook assembly 1, thereby making the movement of the trailer hook assembly 1 smoother and reducing vehicle vibration.

[0089] The crossbeam 3 is connected to the rear end of the vehicle via a first mounting part 41 and a second mounting part 42. The crossbeam 3 can form at least part of the rear anti-collision beam of the vehicle to provide collision protection for the rear of the vehicle.

[0090] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hitch assembly 100 may further include a longitudinal beam fixedly connected to the vehicle and extending along the vehicle's height direction. The crossbeam 3 is slidably connected to the longitudinal beam, allowing the trailer hitch assembly 1 to slide along the vehicle's height direction. This facilitates the connection of the trailer hitch assembly 1 to the trailer hook on the towed object.

[0091] In some embodiments, the longitudinal beam may include a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam, the first mounting part 41 may be slidably connected to the first longitudinal beam, and the second mounting part 42 may be slidably connected to the second longitudinal beam, so that the crossbeam 3 can slide more smoothly along the longitudinal beam.

[0092] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hitch assembly 1 may include a slider 11 and a trailer hitch 12 connected to the slider 11. The slider 11 is slidably connected to the crossbeam 3, and the drive assembly 2 is connected to the slider 11.

[0093] In this way, the drive assembly 2 can drive the slider 11 to slide along the crossbeam 3 and drive the trailer hook 12 to move along the crossbeam 3, thereby counteracting the swing of the towed object and reducing vehicle vibration.

[0094] In one possible structural design, the drive component 2 may include a drive element that is directly connected to the slider 11 and slides synchronously with the slider 11.

[0095] In another possible structural design, the drive assembly 2 may include a drive member and a transmission member, the transmission member being connected between the drive member and the sliding member 11. The drive member is fixedly connected to the crossbeam 3, and the drive member outputs power to the transmission member. Through the transmission member, the sliding member 11 is driven to slide along the crossbeam 3. For example, the transmission member may be a chain.

[0096] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hitch assembly 1 may further include a switching element 13 connected between the sliding element 11 and the trailer hitch 12, the switching element 13 allowing the trailer hitch 12 to switch between an extended state and a retracted state relative to the sliding element 11.

[0097] When the sliding member 11 is in the extended state, the tow hook 12 can be used to connect with the towed object, allowing the towed object to move with the vehicle. When the towed object is not needed, the switching member 13 can switch the towed object to the retracted state. In this way, the tow hook 12 can be retracted when not in use, making the vehicle's appearance more aesthetically pleasing and preventing the tow hook 12 from being exposed and increasing the risk of damage to the vehicle in the event of a collision.

[0098] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hook 12 may include a connecting arm 121 and a trailer part 122. The two ends of the extending direction of the connecting arm 121 are a first end 1211 and a second end 1212, respectively. The first end 1211 may be connected to the switching member 13, and the trailer part 122 is disposed at the second end 1212. When the trailer hook 12 is in the extended state, the extending direction of the connecting arm 121 intersects with the crossbeam 3. When the trailer hook 12 is in the retracted state, the extending direction of the connecting arm 121 is parallel to the crossbeam 3.

[0099] The trailer section 122 is used to connect the towed object. The connecting arm 121 is connected between the switching member 13 and the trailer section 122, which can increase the distance between the switching member 13 and the trailer section 122, making it easier to connect the towed object to the trailer section 122. In addition, increasing the distance between the crossbeam 3 and the trailer section 122 can prevent the towed object from moving forward due to inertia and causing damage to the vehicle when the vehicle is braking.

[0100] When the tow hook 12 is in the extended state, the extension direction of the connecting arm 121 intersects with the crossbeam 3, which can increase the distance between the crossbeam 3 and the trailer part 122. When the tow hook 12 is in the retracted state, the extension direction of the connecting arm 121 is parallel to the crossbeam 3, which can make the vehicle's appearance more aesthetically pleasing and prevent the tow hook 12 from protruding from the crossbeam 3, thus preventing increased damage to the vehicle in the event of a collision.

[0101] In some embodiments, the trailer hook 12 is provided with a solenoid valve. When the solenoid valve is energized, the trailer part 122 can attract the trailer hook. In this way, when the trailer hook 12 is in the extended state and the trailer hook 12 is connected to the towed object, the solenoid valve is energized, and the trailer part 122 attracts the trailer hook of the towed object, thereby locking the trailer hook to the trailer hook 12 and preventing the towed object from falling off the trailer hook 12.

[0102] In some embodiments of this application, the switching element 13 may be a rotating element 13A, which allows the trailer hook 12 to rotate relative to the sliding element 11 between an extended state and a retracted state.

[0103] In this way, the trailer hook 12 can rotate relative to the sliding member 11, allowing the trailer hook 12 to flexibly switch between the extended and retracted states by rotation, making operation simple and convenient.

[0104] In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hitch assembly 1 may further include a locking structure for locking the trailer hitch 12 to keep the trailer hitch 12 in the deployed state.

[0105] In this way, when the trailer hook 12 needs to drag the towed object, the locking structure can lock the trailer hook 12 to keep the trailer hook 12 in the extended state and prevent the towed object from swinging due to the trailer hook 12 rotating between the extended and retracted states.

[0106] In one possible structural design, when the vehicle is connected to the towed object and the vehicle begins to move, the trailer hook assembly 1 will be subjected to the drag force from the towed object. At this time, the locking mechanism will work to lock the position of the tow hook to keep it in the deployed state.

[0107] In another possible structural design, when the trailer hook 12 needs to drag the towed object, the trailer hook 12 switches from the retracted state to the extended state. At this time, the locking mechanism works to lock the position of the towing hook to keep it in the extended state.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a storage box 5 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of the trailer hook 12 in the retracted state. In some embodiments of this application, the trailer hook device 100 may also include a storage box 5. The drive component 2 may also be used to drive the trailer hook 12 to slide along the crossbeam 3 into the storage box 5. When the trailer hook 12 is located in the storage box 5, the trailer hook 12 is in the retracted state.

[0109] In this way, when the vehicle does not need to perform towing tasks, the tow hook 12 is in a retracted state. The storage box 5 allows the tow hook 12 to be hidden under the vehicle, increasing the vehicle's aesthetics.

[0110] In some embodiments of this application, the storage box 5 may include a first sidewall 51 and a second sidewall 52 that are opposite to and spaced apart, forming a storage space between the first sidewall 51 and the second sidewall 52. This storage space can be used to store the trailer hook 12.

[0111] Before the trailer hook 12 enters the storage box 5, the trailer hook 12 is in the unfolded position, the direction of the first end 1211 pointing to the second end 1212 is consistent with the direction of the first side wall 51 pointing to the second side wall 52, and along the extension direction of the crossbeam 3, the storage space is opposite to the first end 1211.

[0112] Since the first end 1211 is connected to the slider 11, the storage space is opposite to the first end 1211 along the extension direction of the crossbeam 3. When the trailer hook 12 is stored, the drive assembly 2 can drive the slider 11 to slide along the crossbeam 3 to the storage space.

[0113] During the process of the drive assembly 2 driving the trailer hook 12 to slide along the crossbeam 3 into the storage space, the second side wall 52 presses the connecting arm 121, so that the trailer hook 12 rotates from the unfolded position to the storage position.

[0114] Thus, when the drive assembly 2 drives the trailer hook 12 to slide along the crossbeam 3 into the storage space, the drive assembly 2 drives the sliding member 11 to slide into the storage space. Since the trailer hook 12 is in the unfolded state, the trailer hook 12 cannot directly enter the storage space. The second side wall 52 applies a squeezing force to the connecting arm 121, which can cause the rotating member 13A to rotate, thereby causing the trailer hook 12 to rotate from the unfolded position to the storage position.

[0115] In some embodiments of this application, before the trailer hook 12 enters the storage box 5, the end of the first sidewall 51 facing the trailer hook 12 is the third end 503, and the end of the second sidewall 52 facing the trailer hook 12 is the fourth end 504; a first guide surface 501 is provided between the inner wall surface of the first sidewall 51 and the end face of the third end 503, and a second guide surface 502 is provided between the inner wall surface of the second sidewall 52 and the end face of the fourth end 504.

[0116] In this way, during the process of the trailer hook 12 entering the storage space, the first guide surface 501 and the second guide surface 502 can guide the trailer hook 12, so that the trailer hook 12 enters the storage space more smoothly, and avoids the angle between the inner wall surface of the second side wall 52 and the end face of the fourth end 504 from obstructing and damaging the trailer hook 12.

[0117] For example, the first guide surface 501 and the second guide surface 502 can be guide ramps, or the first guide surface 501 and the second guide surface 502 can be arc surfaces.

[0118] In some embodiments of this application, the storage box 5 further includes a bottom wall 53 connected between the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 52; before the trailer hook 12 enters the storage box 5, the end of the bottom wall 53 facing the trailer hook 12 is the fifth end 505, and the end of the bottom wall 53 away from the trailer hook 12 is the sixth end 506; from the fifth end 505 to the sixth end 506, the inner wall surface of the bottom wall 53 gradually extends upward.

[0119] When the tow hook 12 enters the storage box 5, as the inner wall of the bottom wall 53 gradually extends upward, the tow hook 12 gradually rises. This increases the gap between the tow hook 12 and the ground, thereby preventing the tow hook 12 from hooking foreign objects during driving and interfering with the driving process.

[0120] In some embodiments, the trailer hitch assembly 1 may further include an elastic element that can be connected between the slider 11 and the trailer hitch 12. Thus, as the trailer hitch 12 is gradually raised, the elastic element is compressed, thereby allowing the trailer hitch 12 to be raised.

[0121] This application embodiment also provides a vehicle that may include the aforementioned tow hook device 100 to enable the function of towing a towed object. When the vehicle is towing, since the drive assembly 2 can drive the tow hook 12 to move relative to the vehicle, the vehicle experiences less vibration during towing, thus improving driving comfort.

[0122] This application also provides a control method for a trailer hitch device 100, which can be used to control the trailer hitch device 100 provided in this application.

[0123] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 This application provides a schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device 100, which may include the following steps:

[0124] S101. Obtain the vehicle's motion attitude information.

[0125] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 5 The present application provides a control principle diagram of a trailer hitch device 100. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include a motion posture acquisition device, which can be used to collect motion posture information.

[0126] For example, the motion posture information may include vehicle trajectory offset, vehicle roll angle, and vehicle tail-swing angle. The motion posture acquisition device may include a camera, a distance sensor, or an angle sensor, and the above-mentioned motion posture information is acquired through detection by the camera, distance sensor, or angle sensor.

[0127] S102. Based on motion posture information, control the drive component 2 in the trailer hook device 100 to drive the trailer hook component 1 to move relative to the vehicle.

[0128] In some embodiments, the vehicle may also include a controller. The motion posture acquisition device transmits the acquired motion posture information to the controller. In this way, the offset between the towed object and the vehicle can be determined through the motion posture information. The controller can control the trailer hook device 100. By driving the movement of the trailer hook assembly 1, some of the interference of the offset on the vehicle can be offset, thereby reducing the shaking of the vehicle during towing and improving the driving experience.

[0129] Please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, the trailer hitch device 100 may include a crossbeam 3 fixedly connected to the vehicle. In this case, step S102 may include:

[0130] S1021. Based on motion posture information, control the drive component 2 in the trailer hook device 100 to drive the trailer hook component 1 to move along the crossbeam 3 in the trailer hook device 100.

[0131] In this way, the crossbeam 3 can provide guidance for the trailer hook assembly 1, and the drive assembly 2 drives the trailer hook assembly 1 to move relative to the crossbeam 3 to offset part of the offset between the towed object and the vehicle, thereby reducing vehicle vibration.

[0132] Please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a third schematic diagram illustrating a control method for a trailer hitch device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments of this application, the control method for the trailer hitch device 100 may further include the following steps:

[0133] S201. Obtain the rear-view image information of the vehicle;

[0134] Please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the vehicle may also include a rear-end image acquisition and analysis device, which can acquire and analyze rear-end image information, including images of the towed object.

[0135] For example, the rear-end image acquisition and analysis device may include a camera and a processor, the camera being used to acquire an image of the towed object and the processor being used to analyze the image.

[0136] S202. Based on the rear-view image information, determine the position of the trailer hitch of the towed object;

[0137] By acquiring the rear-view image information, the processor analyzes the relative position of the towed object and the vehicle, and determines the position of the tow hook by comparing the position of the tow hook on the towed object with the aforementioned relative position.

[0138] S203. Based on the position of the trailer hook, control the vehicle to move so that the trailer hook 12 is close to the trailer hook of the towed object.

[0139] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a vehicle driving system. In one possible implementation, the vehicle driving system can control the vehicle to perform driving operations, which, for example, may include moving forward, moving backward, turning, and braking.

[0140] In another possible implementation, the vehicle driving system may include a display screen on which the controller can display driving information, and the driver can adjust the vehicle position based on the driving information.

[0141] In this way, the rear-view image acquisition and analysis device can transmit the position of the trailer hitch to the controller. The controller can process the vehicle driving information and then control the vehicle movement through the vehicle driving system so that the trailer hook 12 is close to the trailer hitch of the towed object.

[0142] In some embodiments of this application, the control method of the trailer hitch device 100 may further include the following steps:

[0143] S204. Obtain the relative positional relationship between the trailer hitch and the trailer hook 12;

[0144] The vehicle driving system controls the movement of the vehicle, so that the trailer hook 12 approaches the trailer hitch of the towed object. During the movement, the rear image acquisition and analysis device continuously acquires images of the towed object to obtain the position of the trailer hitch. After receiving the position of the trailer hitch, the controller analyzes and obtains the relative positional relationship between the trailer hitch and the trailer hook 12.

[0145] S205. Based on the relative positional relationship, control the drive component 2 in the trailer hook device 100 to drive the trailer hook component 1 to move so as to connect the trailer hook with the trailer hook 12.

[0146] Based on this relative positional relationship, the controller can determine whether the positions of the trailer hook and trailer hook 12 have reached the range where they can be docked.

[0147] If the docking position is reached, the controller controls the drive component 2 in the trailer hook device 100 to drive the trailer hook component 1 to move and adjust the position of the trailer hook 12 so as to dock the trailer hook with the trailer hook 12.

[0148] If the docking position is not reached, the controller continues to control the vehicle driving system to adjust the vehicle position so that the trailer hook and trailer hook 12 are within the docking position range.

[0149] Please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a fourth schematic diagram illustrating a control method for a trailer hitch device 100 provided in this application. In some embodiments of this application, the control method for the trailer hitch device 100 may further include the following steps:

[0150] S301. In response to detecting that the towed object is disconnected from the trailer hook assembly 1, the drive assembly 2 in the trailer hook device 100 is controlled to drive the trailer hook assembly 1 to move so as to store the trailer hook assembly 1 into the storage box 5 of the trailer hook device 100.

[0151] In some embodiments of this application, when the vehicle detects that the towed object is disconnected from the trailer hook assembly 1, the controller can control the drive assembly 2 in the trailer hook device 100 to drive the trailer hook assembly 1 to move along the crossbeam 3 toward the storage box 5. The second side wall 52 squeezes the connecting arm 121 to make the trailer hook 12 rotate to the storage state, thereby storing the trailer hook assembly 1 in the storage box 5.

[0152] Please refer to Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is the fifth schematic diagram of a control method for a trailer hitch device 100 provided in this application. In some embodiments of this application, the control method for the trailer hitch device 100 may further include the following steps:

[0153] S401, In response to detecting that an emergency safety event has occurred or is about to occur to the vehicle, control the disconnection of the towed object from the vehicle.

[0154] In some embodiments of this application, when the vehicle detects that an emergency safety event has occurred or is about to occur, such as rollover, skidding, or collision, the controller can control the connection between the towed object and the vehicle to be disconnected, thereby reducing the potential damage to the main vehicle and improving the vehicle's safety and stability.

[0155] In one possible implementation, the trailer hitch device 100 can separate the slider 11 from the trailer hitch 12, thereby disconnecting the trailer hitch 12 from the vehicle and thus breaking the connection between the towed object and the vehicle.

[0156] In another possible implementation, the trailer hook device 100 can de-energize the solenoid valve provided on the trailer hook 12, thereby releasing the lock between the trailer hook 12 and the trailer hitch, so that the trailer hitch is separated from the trailer hook 12, thereby disconnecting the towed object from the vehicle.

[0157] In implementing the functions of the integrated modules described above using hardware, this embodiment of the invention provides a possible structural diagram of the electronic device involved in the above embodiments. Please refer to... Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application. The electronic device 200 includes: a processor 202, a communication interface 203, and a bus 204. Optionally, the electronic device 200 may also include a memory 201.

[0158] Processor 202 may implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. Processor 202 may be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. It may implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. Processor 202 may also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as including one or more microprocessor combinations, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc.

[0159] Communication interface 203 is used to connect with other devices via a communication network. This communication network can be Ethernet, wireless access network, wireless local area network (WLAN), etc.

[0160] The memory 201 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), disk storage medium or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto.

[0161] As one possible implementation, the memory 201 can exist independently of the processor 202. The memory 201 can be connected to the processor 202 via a bus 204 and is used to store instructions or program code. When the processor 202 calls and executes the instructions or program code stored in the memory 201, it can implement the control method of the trailer hook device provided in this embodiment of the invention.

[0162] In another possible implementation, the memory 201 can also be integrated with the processor 202.

[0163] Bus 204 can be an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, etc. Bus 204 can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc.

[0164] Through the above description of the implementation methods, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the service calling device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0165] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by computer instructions instructing related hardware. The program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be any of the foregoing embodiments or memory. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the aforementioned service invocation device, such as a pluggable hard drive, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the aforementioned service invocation device. Further, the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can include both internal storage units of the aforementioned service invocation device and external storage devices. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium is used to store the aforementioned computer program and other programs and data required by the aforementioned service invocation device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0166] The vehicle provided in this application embodiment may further include the aforementioned electronic device or computer-readable storage medium.

[0167] This application also provides a computer program product comprising a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute any of the control methods for the trailer hitch device provided in the above embodiments.

[0168] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0169] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A trailer hitch device, characterized in that, The trailer hook device comprises a trailer hook assembly (1) and a driving assembly (2); The trailer hook assembly (1) is adapted to be movably connected to a vehicle along a width direction of the vehicle, and the driving assembly (2) is adapted to drive the trailer hook assembly (1) to move along the width direction of the vehicle relative to the vehicle, so as to reduce the shaking of the vehicle along the width direction; The trailer hook device further comprises a cross beam (3), the cross beam (3) is adapted to be fixed to the vehicle and extend along the width direction of the vehicle, and the driving assembly (2) is adapted to drive the trailer hook assembly (1) to move along the cross beam (3); The trailer hook assembly (1) comprises a sliding member (11) and a trailer hook (12) connected to the sliding member (11); The trailer hook device further comprises a storage box (5), the driving assembly (2) is further used to drive the trailer hook (12) to slide along the cross beam (3) into the storage box (5), and when the trailer hook (12) is located in the storage box (5), the trailer hook (12) is in a storage state.

2. The trailer hitch device of claim 1, wherein, The sliding member (11) is slidably connected to the cross beam (3), the driving assembly (2) is connected to the sliding member (11), and the driving assembly (2) is adapted to drive the sliding member (11) to slide along the cross beam (3) and drive the trailer hook (12) to move along the cross beam (3).

3. The trailer hitch device of claim 2, wherein, The trailer hook assembly (1) further comprises a switching member (13) connected between the sliding member (11) and the trailer hook (12); The switching member (13) allows the trailer hook (12) to switch between an unfolded state and a storage state relative to the sliding member (11).

4. The trailer hitch device of claim 3, wherein, The trailer hook (12) comprises a connecting arm (121) and a trailer part (122), two ends of the connecting arm (121) in an extending direction are respectively a first end (1211) and a second end (1212), the first end (1211) is connected to the switching member (13), and the trailer part (122) is arranged at the second end (1212); When the trailer hook (12) is in the unfolded state, the extending direction of the connecting arm (121) intersects the cross beam (3), and when the trailer hook (12) is in the storage state, the extending direction of the connecting arm (121) is parallel to the cross beam (3).

5. The trailer hitch device of claim 4, wherein, The switching member (13) is a rotating member (13A), and the switching member (13) allows the trailer hook (12) to rotate relative to the sliding member (11) between the unfolded state and the storage state.

6. The trailer hitch device of claim 3, wherein, The trailer hook assembly (1) further comprises a locking structure for locking the trailer hook (12) so as to keep the trailer hook (12) in the unfolded state.

7. The trailer hitch device of claim 4, wherein, The storage box (5) comprises a first side wall (51) and a second side wall (52) oppositely and spacedly arranged, and a storage space is formed between the first side wall (51) and the second side wall (52); Before the trailer hook (12) enters the storage box (5), the trailer hook (12) is in the unfolded state, the first end (1211) points to the second end (1212) in the direction consistent with the direction of the first side wall (51) pointing to the second side wall (52), and along the extension direction of the cross beam (3), the storage space is opposite to the first end (1211); During the driving of the driving assembly (2) to drive the trailer hook (12) to slide along the cross beam (3) to the storage space, the second side wall (52) extrudes the connecting arm (121), so that the trailer hook (12) is rotated from the unfolded state to the storage state.

8. The trailer hitch device of claim 7, wherein, Before the trailer hook (12) enters the storage box (5), one end of the first side wall (51) facing the trailer hook (12) is a third end (503), and one end of the second side wall (52) facing the trailer hook (12) is a fourth end (504); The first guide surface (501) is arranged between the inner wall surface of the first side wall (51) and the end surface of the third end (503), and the second guide surface (502) is arranged between the inner wall surface of the second side wall (52) and the end surface of the fourth end (504).

9. The trailer hitch device of claim 7, wherein, The storage box (5) further comprises a bottom wall (53) connected between the first side wall (51) and the second side wall (52); Before the trailer hook (12) enters the storage box (5), one end of the bottom wall (53) facing the trailer hook (12) is a fifth end (505), and one end of the bottom wall (53) away from the trailer hook (12) is a sixth end (506); From the fifth end (505) to the sixth end (506), the inner wall surface of the bottom wall (53) gradually extends upward.

10. A method of controlling a trailer hitch apparatus, characterized by, The method applied to the trailer hook device of any one of claims 1-9, the method comprising: obtaining motion posture information of the vehicle; based on the motion posture information, controlling the driving assembly (2) in the trailer hook device to drive the trailer hook assembly (1) to move relative to the vehicle.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The method applied to the trailer hook device of any one of claims 1-9, the method comprising: obtaining motion posture information of the vehicle; 12. The method of claim 10, wherein, based on the motion posture information, controlling the driving assembly (2) in the trailer hook device to drive the trailer hook assembly (1) to move along the cross beam (3) in the trailer hook device, and the cross beam (3) is adapted to be fixed on the vehicle. The method further comprises: obtaining rear image information of the vehicle; based on the rear image information, determining the position of the trailer hook of the towed object; wherein the towed object is connected with the vehicle through the trailer hook device; 13. The method of claim 12, wherein, based on the position of the trailer hook, controlling the vehicle to move so that the trailer hook (12) is close to the trailer hook of the towed object. The method further comprises: obtaining the relative position relationship between the trailer hook and the trailer hook (12); based on the relative positional relationship, controlling a driving component (2) in the trailer hanger device to drive the trailer hanger component (1) to move, so as to dock the trailer hanger (12) with the trailer hitch.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein, The method further comprises: in response to detecting that the towed object is disconnected from the trailer hanger component (1), controlling the driving component (2) in the trailer hanger device to drive the trailer hanger component (1) to move, so as to store the trailer hanger component (1) into a storage box (5) of the trailer hanger device.

15. The method of claim 10, wherein, The method further comprises: in response to detecting that the vehicle has occurred or is about to occur an emergency safety event, controlling the connection between the towed object and the vehicle to be disconnected.

16. An electronic device, comprising: The electronic device comprises a processor connected with a memory, the memory is used to store computer instructions, the computer instructions are loaded and executed by the processor to enable the electronic device to implement the method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 15.

17. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer readable storage medium stores computer instructions, when the computer instructions run on the computer, make the computer execute the method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 15.

18. A vehicle characterized by comprising: The electronic device comprises: The trailer hanger device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, or the electronic device as claimed in claim 16, or the computer readable storage medium as claimed in claim 17.

19. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product comprises computer instructions, when the computer instructions run on the computer, make the computer execute the method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 15. The computer program product comprises computer instructions, when the computer instructions run on the computer, make the computer execute the method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 15.

Images