Autonomous Trailer Towing Control Using Payload Confidence Levels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for autonomous vehicles pulling trailers with payloads face challenges in accurately determining payload parameters like center of gravity and configuration, leading to uncertainty in vehicle operation, especially during maneuvers like acceleration, braking, and turning, which can impact safety and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system equipped with various sensors mounted on and inside the vehicle captures data to analyze payload parameters, updating a confidence level for autonomous control strategies, allowing the vehicle to execute adjustments in operation based on this analysis, such as speed and turn angles, to ensure safe and efficient navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor data is analyzed to determine payload parameters, then measurement precision of payload parameters is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the payload parameter determination process into multiple independent sensor measurements (position sensors, inertial sensors, scanning sensors) that collectively provide comprehensive data. Each sensor type focuses on specific aspects of payload characterization, dividing the complex measurement task into manageable components that improve precision without requiring a single complex measurement device
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle's existing sensor suite is designed to serve multiple functions: position sensors not only navigate the vehicle but also determine payload center of gravity; inertial sensors not only control vehicle motion but also detect payload shifts. This multi-functionality allows comprehensive payload parameter measurement without adding dedicated specialized equipment, reducing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If autonomous control strategy is adjusted based on confidence level, then reliability of vehicle operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a confidence level feedback mechanism where sensor measurements continuously update the certainty of payload parameter estimates. This feedback loop allows the autonomous control strategy to adapt dynamically - when confidence is high, more aggressive maneuvers are permitted; when confidence is low, conservative control is applied. The feedback-based adaptation improves reliability without requiring completely new control architecture, building upon existing autonomous control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous control strategy transitions from static pre-programmed rules to dynamic adaptation based on real-time confidence levels. The control parameters (speed, acceleration, turning radius) become dynamic variables that adjust according to the current state of payload parameter certainty. This dynamic approach allows the same control system to reliably handle both well-characterized and poorly-characterized payload scenarios without requiring multiple dedicated control systems
3Productivity
If real-time sensor data is processed, then productivity of autonomous operation is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic confidence level updates rather than continuous real-time processing. Payload parameters are re-evaluated at specific intervals or trigger events (maneuvers, location changes) rather than continuously. This periodic action maintains productive autonomous operation by updating control strategies when necessary while avoiding the energy expenditure of constant sensor data processing
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary payload parameter characterization before autonomous operation begins, using initial sensor measurements to establish baseline confidence levels. This preliminary action allows the vehicle to start autonomous operation with sufficient payload knowledge, reducing the need for frequent energy-consuming re-measurements during operation. Critical payload parameters are determined in advance when the vehicle is stationary or at low-speed locations
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle operable to pull a trailer comprising a payload is provided, that includes a plurality of sensors configured to capture sensor data related to the vehicle, the trailer, or both, and a controller configured to (i) receive the sensor data from the plurality of sensors, (ii) determine, based on the sensor data, one or more parameters associated with the trailer, the payload, or both, (iii) update, based on an analysis of the one or more parameters, a confidence level associated with an operation of the vehicle with the trailer and the payload, and (iv) based on the confidence level, responsively execute an autonomous control strategy comprising one or more adjustments to the operation of the vehicle.