Vehicle Hitch Ball Detection Using Speed-Gated Feature Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle systems lack an effective hitch detection algorithm, leading to inaccuracies in features like Automatic Hitch, Automated Parking, Reverse Brake Assist, and Trailer Backup, as they rely on improper hitch alignment and position detection.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system equipped with an imager, vehicle speed sensor, and image processor that executes a feature extraction function to locate the hitch ball by analyzing image data and vehicle speed, filtering preliminary locations, and converging on a final position using confidence assessment, and outputs steering and braking control signals for alignment and path management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a hitch detection algorithm is implemented using image processing and vehicle speed data, then measurement precision of hitch ball position is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The image processor is designed to perform multiple functions: it processes image data from the rear imager, analyzes vehicle speed data from the speed sensor, executes feature extraction algorithms to locate the hitch ball, and generates control signals for steering and braking systems. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate systems into a single processing unit, improving measurement precision while limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processor as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between raw sensor data (images and speed measurements) and the required hitch ball position information. This intermediary performs feature extraction and pattern recognition on image data, combining it with vehicle speed data to accurately determine hitch ball location without requiring direct physical contact sensors at the hitch point.
2Reliability
If the feature extraction function continuously analyzes successive still images to locate the hitch ball, then reliability of hitch detection is improved, but loss of time increases due to continuous processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously analyzing successive still images and deriving preliminary hitch ball locations for each frame before final confirmation is needed. This ongoing preliminary analysis ensures that when the hitch ball location is finally determined with sufficient confidence, the detection is reliable. The system filters these preliminary locations to converge on the final position, balancing continuous processing with efficient decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The image processor implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring vehicle speed sensor signals and adjusting the execution of feature extraction functions accordingly. When vehicle speed exceeds predetermined thresholds, the system continues analyzing successive images and uses confidence assessments to determine when sufficient data has been collected. This feedback loop ensures reliable detection while allowing the system to pause or reduce processing when conditions are unfavorable, thereby managing processing time effectively.
3Productivity
If the system executes feature extraction function only when vehicle speed is above predetermined minimum speed, then productivity of hitch detection is improved, but measurement precision may worsen due to motion-induced image blur
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on vehicle speed conditions. The image processor monitors vehicle speed sensor signals and selectively executes the feature extraction function only when speed exceeds a predetermined minimum threshold. This dynamic activation ensures the system operates productively during appropriate driving conditions while avoiding processing during periods when detection would be unreliable. The system adapts its processing behavior to match real-time vehicle operating conditions, optimizing both productivity and measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system includes an imager mounted with and directed to a rear of the vehicle and outputting image data, a vehicle speed sensor mounted with the vehicle and outputting vehicle speed data, and an image processor receiving the image data and the vehicle speed data. The image processor is programmed to monitor a signal from the vehicle speed sensor and, when the signal from the vehicle speed sensor indicates a vehicle speed above a predetermined minimum speed, execute a feature extraction function to locate a hitch ball mounted to the vehicle in the image data.