Adjustable Reverse Trajectory Control for Trailer Hitch Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated vehicle reverse systems lack the capability to allow drivers to adjust trajectories autonomously when maneuvering towards a trailer, limiting the precision and ease of hitching processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize data processing hardware to receive images from a rear camera, overlay paths on the images, and adjust these paths based on user commands, enabling autonomous maneuvering of a vehicle in a rearward direction towards a point of interest, such as a trailer, by transmitting drive commands to the vehicle's drive system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If automated vehicle reverse system uses fixed pre-calculated path, then automation extent is improved, but adaptability to user preferences and trailering conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, fixed path calculation to a dynamic path adjustment mechanism. The driver can interact with the system through a user interface to modify path parameters such as the approach angle and stopping position. The system continuously updates the path based on driver input while maintaining automated execution, thus achieving both automation and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If system provides automated path calculation, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of information regarding driver intent deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the calculated path is displayed to the driver, who can then provide corrective input through the user interface. The system processes this feedback and adjusts the path accordingly, ensuring that the final executed path reflects the driver's intent. This closed-loop approach prevents information loss by continuously incorporating driver preferences into the automated decision-making process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If system allows manual steering adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but extent of automation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial automation by allowing the driver to adjust only specific parameters of the path (such as angle and stopping position) while the system automatically handles the complex path calculation, trajectory generation, and execution control. This partial action approach maintains high automation for the majority of the maneuver while providing selective manual adjustment capabilities where driver intent is most critical.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for autonomously maneuvering a vehicle in a rearward direction towards a point of interest is provided. The method includes receiving one or more images from a camera positioned on a back portion of the vehicle. The method includes overlaying a path on the one or more images. In addition, the method includes receiving a command by way of a user interface. The command includes instructions to adjust the path. The method includes adjusting the path based on the received command. The method also includes transmitting a drive command to a drive system supported by the vehicle. The drive command causes the vehicle to autonomously maneuver along the adjusted path in a rearward direction.