Laser Scanner Cab-Trailer Angle Calculation for Autonomous Reversing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of vehicles with articulation points, including semi-trailer trucks and articulated buses, face challenges in precisely monitoring and controlling the angle between the tractor and trailer, especially when reversing, which requires extensive training and relies heavily on visual monitoring, and this challenge is exacerbated for autonomous vehicles.
Innovation Solution
The integration of laser scanners and an on-board vehicle computer system that calculates the cab-trailer angle using coordinate points from the scanners, enabling precise detection and orientation of the trailer, and allowing for autonomous or computer-guided vehicle maneuvers such as parking and backing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If operators use traditional visual monitoring via rear-view mirrors to monitor the angle between tractor and trailer, then they can achieve basic vehicle control, but the precision of angle monitoring is insufficient and extensive training is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical visual monitoring system (rear-view mirrors) with an optical sensing system (laser scanners) that automatically measures the angle between tractor and trailer. The laser scanners emit laser beams to detect the position of the trailer relative to the tractor, providing precise angle measurements without requiring operator skill or visual estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer system as an intermediary between the vehicle components and the operator. The computer system receives data from laser scanners, calculates the cab-trailer angle, and provides guidance information to the operator, acting as a mediator that translates complex spatial relationships into actionable guidance.
2Reliability
If operators rely on visual monitoring through rear-view mirrors, then they can operate the vehicle, but the safety and accuracy during reversing maneuvers are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where laser scanners continuously measure the angle between the tractor and trailer, the computer system processes this information to calculate the cab-trailer angle, and provides real-time feedback to the operator through displays or guidance systems. This closed-loop feedback enables precise angle control and enhances maneuver safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the inadequate visual feedback system (rear-view mirrors) with an automated optical measurement system (laser scanners) that provides accurate, real-time angle data during reversing maneuvers, eliminating the information loss inherent in visual estimation.
3Measurement precision
If autonomous vehicles use traditional visual monitoring methods, then they can perform basic navigation, but the precision required for articulation point control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex visual monitoring algorithms with a dedicated sensor system (laser scanners) that directly measures the articulation angle. The laser scanners provide precise spatial coordinates of the trailer relative to the tractor, enabling accurate angle calculation without relying on complex image processing or visual estimation algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a multi-functional sensor system where laser scanners serve multiple purposes: detecting the trailer position, calculating the cab-trailer angle, and providing data for autonomous control decisions. This universal sensor platform reduces overall system complexity compared to using multiple specialized sensors or complex visual processing systems.
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
This solution enhances vehicle operation by reducing the reliance on visual monitoring, improving precision, and enabling safer and more accurate maneuvers, particularly for lower-skilled operators and autonomous vehicles, by providing real-time angle calculations and guidance for precise positioning and obstacle avoidance.
Implementation Method 1
one or more laser scanners mounted on a vehicle
Implementation Method 2
use information (e.g., coordinate points) obtained from the laser scanners
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle includes one or more laser scanners and an on-board vehicle computer system communicatively coupled to the laser scanners. The computer system uses information (e.g., coordinate points) obtained from the laser scanners to calculate a trailer angle (e.g., a cab-trailer angle) for the vehicle. The computer system may include a shape detection module that detects a trailer based on the information obtained from the laser scanners and an angle detection module that calculates an angle of the detected trailer relative to a laser scanner, calculates the orientation of the detected trailer based on that angle and dimensions (e.g., width and length) of the trailer, and calculates a cab-trailer angle based on the orientation of the trailer. The computer system may include an autonomous operation module configured to use the cab-trailer angle in an autonomous or computer-guided vehicle maneuver, such as a parking maneuver or backing maneuver.