3D Tow Hitch Positioning From Camera Images
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch assist systems face inaccuracies and inefficiencies in determining the position and orientation of the tow hitch relative to the vehicle, especially when the tow hitch is not mounted during manufacturing or can be moved, leading to costly and time-consuming manual measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a camera-mounted system that captures a two-dimensional image of the tow hitch, uses a database of predefined tow hitches to identify invariant features, and generates a three-dimensional rendering to accurately position a model tow hitch, matching its orientation and dimensions, allowing for precise determination of the tow hitch's position and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to determine tow hitch position, then the system can obtain position information, but the measurement accuracy decreases and the process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated computer vision system. A camera captures images of the tow hitch, and image processing algorithms automatically determine the tow hitch position and orientation relative to the vehicle, eliminating the need for manual measurement tools and procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital representation (copy) of the tow hitch by capturing its image and processing it through algorithms. This digital model allows the system to determine position and orientation without physically measuring the tow hitch, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to determine tow hitch position, then the system can obtain position information, but the measurement cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive manual measurement equipment and procedures with a cost-effective camera-based system. The use of standard imaging devices and software algorithms provides accurate tow hitch positioning at a lower cost than specialized mechanical measurement tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the vehicle's existing camera infrastructure to perform the measurement function, eliminating the need for separate dedicated measurement equipment. The camera serves dual purposes: standard imaging and tow hitch position detection, reducing overall system cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tow hitch is not mounted during manufacturing or can be moved, then the system gains flexibility, but the determination of tow hitch position becomes more complex and less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional image data to three-dimensional spatial understanding by processing camera images through geometric algorithms. This allows the system to accurately determine the tow hitch's position and orientation in 3D space, accounting for its mobility and different mounting configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the captured image and processed position information as feedback to continuously determine and adjust the tow hitch location. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adapt to the tow hitch's position regardless of whether it was mounted during manufacturing or moved afterward, maintaining accuracy through iterative measurement and calculation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining a tow hitch position. The method includes obtaining a two-dimensional image of a tow hitch in a three-dimensional scene. A model tow hitch is obtained in three dimensions. A three-dimensional rendering of a scene is generated that includes the model tow hitch. The model tow hitch in the three-dimensional rendering is positioned in an orientation corresponding with an orientation of the tow hitch in the three-dimensional scene.