Tow Load Configuration via Unique Identifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods require manual driver interaction to confirm trailer presence and configuration at each ignition cycle, leading to outdated information when trailers are replaced or modified, and lack automatic detection for vehicle maneuvering assistance.
Innovation Solution
A method using a unique identifier, such as a QR code, mounted on the tow load to provide configuration data to the vehicle's control system, allowing automatic detection and configuration of the tow load, including dimensions and weight, to facilitate hitching and vehicle system adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual driver interaction is required to confirm trailer presence at each ignition cycle, then the vehicle can be configured with trailer details, but the configuration becomes outdated when trailers are replaced or modified and requires repeated user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an automated detection process where the vehicle's imaging system independently identifies the trailer and retrieves configuration data from the unique identifier without requiring driver intervention. The vehicle configures itself based on the retrieved information, eliminating the need for manual input and ensuring the configuration is always current.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where the vehicle continuously checks for the presence of a trailer by detecting the unique identifier, retrieves configuration data, and updates the vehicle settings automatically. This closed-loop system ensures the configuration remains accurate without user intervention.
2Loss of information
If conventional electrical power measurement methods are used to detect trailer presence, then the detection process is simple, but the method cannot determine detailed configuration information such as trailer type, number of axles, hitch length, and width
Solution Approach 1:
A unique identifier containing encoded configuration data is introduced as an intermediary carrier between the trailer and the vehicle's detection system. This identifier acts as a mediator that conveys detailed trailer information to the vehicle without requiring complex direct sensing of trailer characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional electrical measurement methods with an optical detection system using imaging devices to read the unique identifier. This substitution enables retrieval of detailed configuration information that was not obtainable through electrical power measurements alone.
3Adaptability or versatility
If preconfigured trailer details are stored in the vehicle, then setup is initializable, but the information becomes outdated when the trailer is replaced or modified requiring complete reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
Configuration data is pre-encoded into a unique identifier that is attached to the trailer itself before the trailer is coupled to the vehicle. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the trailer is attached, the vehicle can immediately retrieve accurate configuration information without requiring setup or reconfiguration time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static preconfigured trailer details stored in the vehicle to dynamic configuration data that travels with the trailer on the unique identifier. This enables the configuration information to automatically update when trailers are replaced or modified, maintaining adaptability without reconfiguration delays.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining the configuration of a tow load (12) coupleable to a vehicle (10), the method comprising: controlling (116) a vehicle system to obtain an indication of the presence of a unique identifier (40) mounted on the tow load (12); retrieving data (120) encoded within the unique identifier to determine the configuration of the tow load; configuring (124) the vehicle in dependence on the determined configuration of the tow load.