Trailer Backup Assist Using Surface Slope Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reversing a vehicle while towing a trailer is challenging due to the need for opposite steering inputs and the amplification of small errors, leading to a jackknife condition, which can result in damage and is not effectively addressed by existing trailer backup assist systems that assume a zero curvature path or require pre-defined paths.
Innovation Solution
A trailer backup assist system that utilizes surface slope data to alert operators and control vehicle parameters such as steering and braking, preventing jackknife conditions and obstacles by integrating GPS, topographical data, and sensors to dynamically adjust vehicle operations during reverse maneuvers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a trailer backup assist system assumes a zero curvature path, then the system operation is simplified, but the system cannot handle real-world curved trailer paths effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the trailer path curvature based on real-time conditions rather than assuming a fixed zero curvature path. The curvature control module continuously modifies the desired trailer path curvature according to vehicle speed, hitch angle, and operator inputs, enabling the system to adapt to both straight and curved backup scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the curvature parameter of the trailer path based on operating conditions. By adjusting the desired trailer path curvature from zero (straight) to non-zero (curved) values, the system can handle various backup scenarios while maintaining controlled complexity through parameter adjustment rather than structural complexity.
2Measurement precision
If the system requires pre-defined paths from maps or path planners, then path accuracy is improved, but the human machine interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the vehicle's existing sensors (cameras, LIDAR, ultrasonic sensors) to automatically detect and define the backup path without requiring external map data or complex path planning algorithms. The path is self-defined based on real-time environmental perception, eliminating the need for complicated HMI path specification interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the actual trailer path using sensors and compares it with the desired path, providing real-time feedback to the curvature control module. This feedback mechanism enables automatic path adjustment and correction without requiring pre-defined paths or complex external systems.
3Ease of operation
If small steering errors occur during trailer backup, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the trailer departs from the desired path due to error amplification
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the actual trailer path using cameras, LIDAR, and ultrasonic sensors, comparing the measured position with the desired path. When deviations are detected (even small ones), the curvature control module automatically adjusts the steering angle to correct the error, preventing error amplification while maintaining simple operator input requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical steering control with an automated curvature control system that uses electronic sensors and actuators. This substitution allows the system to detect and correct small steering errors automatically through electronic feedback loops, maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving path following accuracy.
4Productivity
If the vehicle travels at high speed in reverse during trailer backup, then the productivity is improved, but the risk of jackknife condition and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors vehicle speed, hitch angle, and acceleration during reverse maneuvers. When the vehicle travels at high speed, the curvature control module uses feedback from sensors to automatically adjust the trailer path curvature and steering angle, preventing jackknife conditions by maintaining appropriate geometric relationships between the vehicle and trailer despite high speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively prevents jackknife conditions by continuously calculating the desired trailer path curvature based on current vehicle speed, hitch angle, and acceleration. Before a jackknife condition can develop, the curvature control module adjusts the steering and path curvature to maintain safe operating parameters, even during high-speed reverse maneuvers.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer backup assist system for vehicles utilizes surface slope data to provide an alert to an operator if a problematic operating condition is present and/or imminent while the vehicle is backing up with a trailer attached thereto. The trailer backup assist system may also be configured to utilize surface slope data to control steering, braking, or other vehicle operating parameter while the vehicle is backing up with a trailer attached thereto. The trailer backup assist system may also be configured to generate a warning and/or control the vehicle if a jackknife condition is imminent. The surface slope data may be obtained utilizing sensors on the vehicle, or the surface slope data may be obtained utilizing a database that includes topographical data.