Vehicle Hitch Alignment Obstruction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for aligning a tow hitch with a trailer coupling lack effective obstruction detection and dynamic steering guidance, making it difficult to maneuver vehicles into position while avoiding obstacles, which can lead to unsafe hitching maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
A system equipped with an imaging system and processor that generates steering guidance signals to align the tow hitch with the trailer coupling, dynamically avoiding obstacles by analyzing image data from cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and radar sensors, and calculating the required path based on vehicle parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a vehicle is manually maneuvered to align the tow hitch with the trailer coupling, then the driver has full control over the maneuver, but the ability to detect obstructions and avoid them is limited, leading to unsafe hitching maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of imaging sensors, processors, and guidance displays that mediate between the driver and the hitching maneuver. The system detects obstructions, calculates alignment paths, and provides steering guidance signals to the driver, thereby enhancing safety while maintaining driver control and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously provides feedback to the driver through visual displays showing the detected position of the trailer coupling, calculated alignment path, and real-time steering guidance signals. This feedback loop enables the driver to make informed decisions during the maneuver, improving safety without increasing operational complexity.
2Reliability
If existing systems provide basic alignment guidance, then the alignment process is simplified, but obstruction detection and dynamic path adjustment are not provided, limiting safety in complex environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional system where the imaging sensors and processor perform multiple tasks: detecting trailer coupling position, identifying obstructions, calculating alignment paths, and providing steering guidance. This universal approach enhances safety in complex environments while managing system complexity through integrated functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and calculation of the alignment path and potential obstructions before the driver initiates the hitching maneuver. This advance preparation allows the system to provide comprehensive safety guidance, including dynamic path adjustment recommendations, without adding excessive complexity during the actual maneuver.
3Ease of operation
If the vehicle is steered automatically towards the trailer coupling, then the alignment process is automated and simplified, but the ability to adapt to dynamic obstructions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic guidance system that continuously updates the alignment path and steering signals based on real-time detection of obstructions and trailer position. The system adapts to changing conditions during the maneuver by recalculating the optimal path and providing updated steering guidance, thereby maintaining both automation and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting obstructions, recalculating alignment paths, and adjusting steering guidance signals without requiring driver intervention. This self-adjusting capability maintains automation while ensuring adaptability to dynamic conditions, as the system independently responds to changes in the environment.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A system (1) for monitoring available space to manoeuvre a vehicle (3) to align a tow hitch (5) mounted to the vehicle with a trailer coupling (7) mounted to a trailer (9). An imaging system (11, 13, 15) is provided to generate image data. A processor (37) is configured to analyse said image data to identify obstructions proximal to said vehicle and/or to said trailer and to determine if there is sufficient space available to manoeuvre the vehicle to align the tow hitch with the trailer coupling.