Vehicle Hitch Detection Using Camera Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driver assistance systems for vehicles, such as active park assist and reverse park assist, are disabled when a trailer is connected, as they detect the electrical connection and assume a trailer is attached, preventing enhanced operation despite the presence of a powered hitch ornament.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle hitch detection system using a camera and image processor to differentiate between a powered hitch ornament and a trailer, enabling the driver assistance systems to operate by detecting the presence of a powered hitch ornament through image processing and electrical connection monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the driver assistance system disables operation when an electrical hitch connection is detected, then the system avoids false assumptions about trailer attachment, but the system cannot operate when a powered hitch ornament is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical detection system with an optical detection system using a camera and image processor. Instead of relying solely on electrical connection detection, the system captures images of the hitch area and uses image processing to identify whether a powered hitch ornament or a trailer is present, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable trailer detection and system operability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism (camera-based image processing system) between the electrical connection detection and the driver assistance system control. This intermediary layer analyzes visual information to distinguish between powered hitch ornaments and trailers, allowing the system to make informed decisions about operation status
2Device complexity
If the system assumes a trailer is attached when an electrical connection is detected, then the system simplifies detection logic, but the system incorrectly disables operation when only a powered hitch ornament is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple electrical connection detection with a more sophisticated optical detection system using camera imaging and image processing algorithms. This substitution enables accurate identification of powered hitch ornaments versus trailers by analyzing visual characteristics such as shape, size, and position in the captured images
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes visual characteristics including color and reflectivity differences between powered hitch ornaments and trailers in the captured images. The image processing system analyzes these optical properties to accurately distinguish between the two types of objects connected to the hitch
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle hitch detection system is provided. The vehicle hitch detection system includes a camera arranged to capture images of a vehicle hitch and a controller processing the images to detect a powered hitch ornament connected to the hitch based on the processed images when an electrical hitch connection is detected. The controller may further control a driver assistance system based on the detected hitch ornament to enable or disable the system.