Indirect Vision Adjustment for Variable Trailer Geometry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indirect vision systems for vehicles with towing vehicles and attachment devices require complex and time-consuming adjustments due to varying geometric dimensions, posing a safety risk during operation.
Innovation Solution
An indirect vision system with an automatic adjustment unit that adjusts based on the geometric dimensions, state, and global position of the attachment device, using satellite positioning, to provide an optimal view for the driver without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of the vision element and bearing structure is used to adapt to varying attachment device dimensions, then the system can provide a customized view for different configurations, but the adjustment process becomes complex and time-consuming, posing safety risks during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system stores multiple predefined adjustment positions for the vision element and bearing structure, each corresponding to specific attachment device configurations. When a configuration change is detected, the system automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate predefined position, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and reducing adaptation time while maintaining versatility across different attachment device dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The vision system incorporates sensors and control units that automatically detect changes in attachment device configuration and autonomously adjust the vision element and bearing structure to optimal positions. This self-adjusting capability allows the system to adapt to varying dimensions without requiring driver intervention, thereby maintaining adaptability while eliminating time loss associated with manual adjustment
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex adjustment mechanisms are implemented to accommodate wide and long vehicles, then the vision system can cover more areas, but the adjustment unit becomes more complex and requires more steps to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The vision system employs a multi-functional bearing structure capable of performing multiple adjustment operations (swiveling, telescoping, height adjustment) through a single integrated mechanism. This universal structure can accommodate various vehicle widths and lengths without requiring separate adjustment mechanisms for each function, thereby expanding coverage area while minimizing the number of separate adjustment units and simplifying the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing structure is designed with dynamic components that can automatically change their configuration based on the required view. Instead of requiring manual selection of adjustment steps, the system uses sensors to detect the desired viewing angle and automatically actuates the bearing structure to the appropriate dynamic position, reducing operational complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage for wide and long vehicles
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances safety by reducing the need for manual adjustments, ensuring a consistent and safe view for the driver, especially in situations involving towing vehicles and attachment devices.
Implementation Method 1
a global position of the attachment device (determined by satellite)
Data Source
AI summary
An indirect vision system is provided for a vehicle comprising a towing vehicle and an attachment device, the indirect vision system comprising a vision element, a bearing structure, and an adjustment unit. The bearing structure forms a vehicle connection of the vision system and the vision element is connected to the vehicle connection via the bearing structure. The adjustment unit comprises a vision-element adjustment element for adjusting the vision element and/or a bearing-structure adjustment element for adjusting the bearing structure. The vision system is configured to automatically adjust the adjustment unit depending on geometric dimensions and/or a state and/or a global position of the attachment device. In addition, the disclosure relates to a vehicle with the vision system.