Trailer Backing Guidance System Using Hitch Angle Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer backing systems are inherently unstable, leading to jackknifing issues, and previous solutions either address only parts of the problem, are complex, costly, or lack adaptability to various vehicle configurations.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a mathematical approach to indicate the direction and amount of steering required to maintain a trailer's alignment with a target, utilizing inexpensive mechanisms and sensors to provide precise guidance without the need for costly processors or steerable trailer wheels, allowing for easy adaptation to different vehicle-trailer combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a trailer is backed up using traditional manual steering methods, then the system remains simple and inexpensive, but the trailer becomes unstable and prone to jackknifing
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the hitch angle between the vehicle and trailer, and provides real-time feedback to the driver through a display showing the projected trailer path. This feedback loop enables the driver to make precise steering adjustments to maintain trailer alignment and prevent jackknifing, resolving the stability issue without requiring complex automated control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary computational layer that calculates the projected trailer path based on current vehicle steering angle, vehicle speed, and hitch angle. This intermediary computation translates complex trailer dynamics into simple visual guidance, allowing manual steering to remain stable and controllable.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex automated steering systems are implemented to stabilize trailer backing, then trailer alignment precision improves, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs all necessary calculations for determining the projected trailer path using onboard sensors and a microprocessor. The driver simply follows the visual guidance displayed without needing complex automated steering mechanisms. This self-service approach achieves precise alignment while keeping the system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical automated steering mechanisms with a computational and visual guidance approach. Instead of using servos or mechanical linkages to automatically steer the vehicle, the system uses a microprocessor to calculate the projected path and displays it visually, allowing the driver to make precise steering adjustments manually.
3Measurement precision
If expensive processors and steerable trailer wheels are used to achieve precise trailer control, then backing accuracy improves, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses inexpensive sensors and a basic microprocessor to achieve accurate trailer positioning. Instead of expensive steerable trailer wheels or high-end processors, the invention employs cost-effective components that provide sufficient measurement precision for safe and accurate trailer backing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy or simulation of the trailer's projected path and displays it to the driver. This computational model allows the driver to see where the trailer will be based on current steering input, enabling precise control without expensive physical measurement devices or steerable trailer wheels.
4Manufacturing precision
If specialized steerable trailer wheels are implemented, then trailer control precision improves, but adaptability to different vehicle configurations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to work with any vehicle-trailer configuration by measuring the actual hitch angle and using this information in its calculations. The universal algorithm adapts to different vehicle speeds, steering angles, and trailer lengths without requiring specialized steerable trailer wheels, making it versatile across multiple configurations while maintaining control precision.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention helps a driver steer a vehicle while backing up a trailer. A trailer being pushed wants to turn around and be pulled (i.e., to jackknife). To compensate for this instability, the driver must skillfully control his steering to cause the trailer to alternately move to be pulled from the opposite side thereby repeatedly crossing the centerline of the pushing vehicle. The moment when the trailer crosses this centerline is the moment of greatest instability and the position in which the driver would most desire to have the trailer travel. A pointer indicates in what direction the trailer is presently being directed; to backup the trailer, the driver turns the vehicle's wheel such that the pointer is kept pointing in the direction of the intended trailer destination. The present invention can be adapted to most vehicle and trailer combinations with minimal cost and complexity.