Trailer Backup Assist Curvature Control and Jackknife Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer backup assist systems are complex, costly, and ineffective in handling curved paths and jackknife conditions during trailer backup, as they assume a zero curvature path and require complex Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) and precise navigation systems.
Innovation Solution
A trailer backup assist system that allows drivers to specify desired trailer path curvature using a user-friendly interface, such as a control knob or touch screen, which calculates necessary steering angle changes using kinematic information to control the vehicle's steering system, while implementing countermeasures to prevent jackknife conditions by monitoring hitch angle and vehicle speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a trailer backup assist system assumes a zero curvature path, then the system implementation is simplified, but the system becomes ineffective for real-world curved path scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the path curvature assumption based on detected jackknife conditions. Instead of statically assuming zero curvature, the system monitors hitch angle and steering input to determine when curved path compensation is necessary, allowing it to switch between simple and adaptive modes
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own operational data (hitch angle, steering input, vehicle speed) to automatically detect when curved path conditions exist and when jackknife prevention is needed, eliminating the need for external path planning inputs or complex HMI devices
2Measurement precision
If complex HMI devices and precise navigation systems are used to specify path, obstacles and goal, then path following accuracy is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential information needed for safe operation (hitch angle, steering input, vehicle speed) from the complex navigation and HMI systems, using this subset of data to detect jackknife conditions and provide appropriate warnings or interventions
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors operational parameters and provides feedback to the driver through warnings or automated interventions when jackknife conditions are detected, creating a closed-loop safety system that works with existing navigation inputs rather than requiring complete path specification
3Speed
If maximum steering input is applied to reduce hitch angle, then the response speed is improved, but a jackknife condition may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects early signs of jackknife conditions by monitoring the relationship between steering input and hitch angle change, and applies counteracting actions (warnings, automated steering adjustments) before the jackknife condition fully develops, preventing the need for aggressive maximum steering inputs
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of always applying maximum steering input to reduce hitch angle, the system inverts the approach by detecting when such input would be harmful and applying opposing or moderated steering actions to prevent jackknife conditions while still achieving hitch angle reduction
4Productivity
If the vehicle travels at high speed in reverse when jackknife condition occurs, then productivity is improved, but contact between vehicle and trailer may occur causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of jackknife conditions by monitoring hitch angle and steering input relationships before the condition becomes critical, allowing the driver to slow down or adjust steering before high-speed operation becomes dangerous
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback to the driver about approaching jackknife conditions, enabling the driver to modulate vehicle speed and steering input in real-time to maintain both productivity and safety
Data Source
AI summary
The trailer backup assist system has a human machine interface coupled to a controller having a setup module, a calibration module, an activation module and a control module configured to receive trailer measurements, apply trailer measurements, activate and control vehicle systems to calibrate and implement a curvature control algorithm that controls the reverse movement of the vehicle-trailer combination in a manner consistent with a driver request. When incorrect trailer measurements have been entered, the trailer backup assist system recognizes the error, initiates a warning and requests corrective action to correct the trailer measurements. Default values for a maximum controllable curvature limit and a maximum controllable angle replace the limits calculated and applied by the calibration model that used incorrect trailer measurements, until corrected trailer measurements may be entered by the driver.