Automated Hitch Arm Alignment for Trailer Coupler Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coupling a trailer hitch to a trailer is cumbersome and often requires multiple individuals, especially in extreme conditions, due to the need for precise alignment and vertical ratcheting of the trailer ball and coupler.
Innovation Solution
An automated hitch apparatus with a hitch arm and drive systems, including motors and extenders, allows for automated alignment and coupling of the trailer ball to the coupler, reducing the need for manual alignment and vertical ratcheting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment and vertical ratcheting of the trailer ball and coupler is performed, then precise coupling is achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch arm is pre-positioned in a stowed position above the vehicle bumper, ready for deployment. The system performs preliminary alignment calculations using camera images before actual coupling begins, and the hitch arm automatically moves into position without requiring manual ratcheting adjustments during the coupling process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated system that uses image capture, processing, and computer-controlled hitch arm movement. The mechanical ratcheting process is substituted with automated motor-driven positioning based on visual feedback from cameras and image analysis algorithms
2Manufacturing precision
If two individuals are used to aid in aligning the trailer ball to the coupler, then alignment accuracy improves, but the complexity of the operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment by capturing images of the coupler, processing these images to determine precise positioning requirements, and automatically moving the hitch arm into the correct position without requiring external operators. The vehicle's own camera system and processing unit are used to guide the coupling operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processing system as an intermediary between the operator and the physical coupling operation. The system captures images, processes them to extract coupler position and orientation data, and uses this information to control the hitch arm movement, replacing the need for human operators to visually estimate and manually adjust alignment
3Adaptability or versatility
If coupling is performed during extreme environmental conditions, then the hitching operation can be completed, but the difficulty and time required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated image-based alignment system eliminates the need for operators to physically position and manually align the hitch components in extreme conditions. The system captures images through the vehicle's camera, processes them to determine precise positioning, and automatically executes the coupling maneuver, protecting operators from environmental exposure while maintaining coupling accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image capture and processing to determine the optimal coupling path and positioning before initiating the actual hitching maneuver. This allows the system to pre-calculate the necessary movements and execute them automatically, reducing the time operators need to spend outside the vehicle in extreme conditions
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a hitch arm having a cross member having a first end and a second end. A first hitch member is adjacently coupled to the first end. A second hitch member is adjacently coupled to the second end. A hitch receiver is coupled to the cross member. The apparatus includes a first hitch frame and a second hitch frame. A first drive system is mechanically coupled to the hitch arm and to the first hitch frame. A second drive system is coupled to the hitch arm and to the second hitch frame.