Active Adaptive Haptic Multi-Function Knob for Trailer Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer backup assist systems face challenges in providing a simple human-machine interface and accurately guiding trailers on curved paths, as they often assume a zero curvature path, which limits their usefulness in real-world scenarios and complicates the human-machine interface.
Innovation Solution
A trailer backup assist system featuring a rotatable driver interface with a rotary element and an electromechanical system that constrains the rotary element's movement toward a center position, allowing drivers to input desired curvature commands, which are then translated into vehicle steering commands to guide the trailer along the desired path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a trailer backup assist system assumes a zero curvature path by default, then the system complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to real-world curved path scenarios is significantly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its behavior based on detected curvature. The rotary encoder detects rotational input from the driver, and the control system dynamically adjusts steering commands to accommodate curved paths rather than assuming straight-line backup. This transforms the system from a static zero-curvature assumption to a dynamic curved-path-capable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters by detecting rotational input through the rotary encoder and adjusting the steering angle accordingly. When the driver rotates the input element, the system interprets this as a curvature command and modifies its path-following parameters to execute the desired curved trajectory.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex human-machine interface is implemented to handle curved paths, then the adaptability to curved paths is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary input element serves multiple functions: it can be rotated to command curved paths and potentially pressed or positioned to indicate straight-line backup. This multi-functional design allows the system to handle both straight and curved path scenarios through a single, familiar interface element, maintaining ease of operation while expanding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically interprets the rotary encoder's detected position as a curvature command without requiring additional driver actions. The driver simply rotates the element to the desired angle, and the system self-services by converting this simple input into the appropriate steering commands for curved path following.
3Ease of operation
If the rotary element is allowed free rotation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision and control accuracy deteriorate due to lack of constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary encoder provides feedback on the rotational position of the input element. This feedback mechanism allows the system to accurately detect the driver's intended curvature command while maintaining ease of rotation. The feedback ensures that even small rotational inputs are precisely measured and translated into appropriate steering commands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical constraint mechanisms (such as physical stops or detents) with an electromechanical sensing system. The rotary encoder electronically detects the position and rotation of the input element without requiring mechanical constraints, thereby maintaining ease of operation while achieving high measurement precision through electronic sensing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a user-friendly interface for drivers to specify and achieve desired trailer curvature paths, enhancing the accuracy and usability of trailer backup assist systems by allowing for curved paths and reducing the complexity of human-machine interaction.
Implementation Method 1
an electromechanical element coupled between the base and the rotary element. A controller is further included in the system and causes the electromechanical element to constrain the rotary element
Data Source
AI summary
A backup assist system for a vehicle reversing a trailer includes an input element, including a base and a rotary element rotatably coupled with the base. The system further includes a controller causing a rotation of the rotary element relative to the base to be constrained in a first rotational movement mode that is biased toward a center position. The controller further interprets a first instantaneous position of the rotary element as a trailer control commanding position and outputs a vehicle steering command based thereon.