Graphical Position Indicators for Towable Object Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face difficulties in properly positioning features of towable objects, such as trailers or boats, relative to external objects due to limited visibility and alignment challenges when using traditional rear view mirrors or cameras.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that generate and display graphical position indicators on a display, overlaying them onto an image of the towable object from sensors, adjusting for articulation angles and positions relative to the towing vehicle, to assist operators in aligning features like sewage fittings, water outlets, and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional rear view mirrors or cameras are used to observe towable object features, then the operator can see the towable object, but the alignment precision and positioning accuracy are insufficient due to limited visibility and lack of reference indicators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a graphical copy or representation of the towable object and its features on a display screen. This graphical model includes visual indicators that replicate the actual positions and orientations of physical features, allowing the operator to see precise feature locations without directly observing the physical object. The graphical copy enhances visibility and measurement precision by providing a simplified, enhanced visual representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a graphical indicator system as an intermediary between the operator and the physical towable object features. These graphical indicators serve as a mediator that translates complex spatial relationships into easily interpretable visual cues on a display, improving the operator's ability to align features without directly viewing the physical object.
2Loss of information
If graphical indicators are overlaid on sensor images to show feature positions, then the visibility and alignment precision improve, but the device complexity increases due to image processing and graphical overlay requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where the image processing apparatus serves multiple purposes: it captures images of the towable object, processes these images to extract feature position information, generates graphical indicators, and displays them all through the same system. This universal approach consolidates what could be separate complex subsystems into a single integrated solution, managing device complexity while maintaining enhanced visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing sensor images themselves as the basis for generating graphical indicators, rather than requiring separate measurement devices or complex external reference systems. The image processing leverages the captured visual information to create its own enhancement indicators, making the system self-sufficient and reducing overall complexity.
3Measurement precision
If the graphical indicators are adjusted based on articulation angle and position, then the accuracy of feature positioning improves, but the computational requirements and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculations of articulation angles and position relationships in advance, using pre-stored reference information about the towable object's geometry and feature locations. By preparing transformation data and reference frameworks beforehand, the system reduces real-time computational requirements, maintaining high positioning accuracy while minimizing processing time during actual operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus that provide position indicators for features of a towable object. The method includes obtaining position information corresponding to a feature of a towable object, converting the position information to feature display information corresponding to a position of the feature on a display, and displaying an element indicating the position of the feature on the display.