Trailer Backup Camera Adjusts Settings for Jackknife Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reversing a vehicle while towing a trailer is challenging, especially for unskilled drivers, due to the need for opposite steering inputs and amplified steering errors, and the risk of jackknife conditions, which existing trailer backup assist systems fail to address effectively with complex interfaces and costly implementations.
Innovation Solution
A trailer backup assist system with a camera-based imaging system that adjusts image capture settings based on vehicle lighting and positioning, allowing drivers to specify desired trailer path curvature through an intuitive interface, and includes countermeasures to prevent jackknife conditions by controlling hitch angle and steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing trailer backup assist systems are implemented, then trailer backup assistance is provided, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture images of the trailer and generates a virtual representation of the trailer path. This virtual model is then used to determine steering adjustments, replacing the need for complex physical sensors and direct measurement systems. The camera-based approach creates a digital copy of the trailer's position and orientation, which simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining assistance functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical steering adjustment mechanisms with an electronic image processing and display system. Instead of automatic mechanical steering intervention, the system captures images, processes them to determine trailer path curvature, and presents virtual guidance information to the driver. This substitution of mechanical systems with electronic/optical systems reduces mechanical complexity while providing the same assistance function.
2Measurement precision
If complex path specification interfaces are used, then accurate path control is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the desired trailer path by analyzing the captured images and the trailer's current position. Instead of requiring the driver to manually specify path parameters through complex interfaces, the system self-determines the optimal path based on visual information from the camera and the trailer's actual position, thereby simplifying the user interface while maintaining path control accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously captures images of the trailer, processes these images to determine the trailer's position and path curvature, and uses this feedback information to provide real-time virtual guidance. This closed-loop feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust its path determination without requiring complex manual input from the driver, achieving both accuracy and ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If manual steering control is used, then driver control is maintained, but steering errors are amplified
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a virtual guidance display as an intermediary between the driver's steering input and the actual trailer path. The camera-based imaging system provides real-time visual feedback about the trailer's position and path curvature, allowing the driver to make more accurate steering adjustments. This virtual intermediary enhances the driver's situational awareness and reduces steering errors without removing driver control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image capture and path analysis to predict the trailer's future position and potential jackknife conditions. By providing advance visual information about the trailer's path and potential hazards, the system enables the driver to take corrective steering actions before errors are amplified, thereby maintaining driver control while improving steering accuracy and preventing dangerous conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system and method of a trailer backup assist system is provided and includes a camera having an image sensor. The camera is mounted on the rear of a vehicle and images a target provided on a trailer. A controller is included for adjusting an image capture setting of the camera based on a status input from a vehicle lighting system, image data from the camera, and locational input from a positioning device.