Trailer Backup Steering Input Apparatus Curvature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer backup assist systems are complex, costly, and difficult to use, especially for drivers who infrequently back trailers, as they require complex human-machine interfaces and assumptions about straight paths, failing to effectively manage jackknife conditions and trailer curvature control.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained trailer backup steering input apparatus that allows drivers to input desired trailer path curvature through a user-friendly interface, such as a rotatable knob, which generates steering commands for the vehicle's steering system, enabling selective placement and optimizing the trailer backup assist system's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a trailer backup assist system uses path planning algorithms and map data to determine backup paths, then the system can provide automated steering assistance, but the Human Machine Interface becomes relatively complex and the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the path planning functionality from the vehicle's main control system and places it on the detachable trailer itself. The trailer independently determines its backup path using onboard sensors and processing, removing the complexity of path planning from the vehicle's HMI and control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer performs self-navigation by independently detecting obstacles, determining its own backup path, and steering autonomously. The trailer's control system serves itself by using its own sensors and processors to navigate without requiring complex vehicle system integration.
2Manufacturing precision
If a trailer backup assist system requires precise path specification and obstacle avoidance planning before backing, then the system can achieve accurate trailer positioning, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer performs preliminary obstacle detection and path planning before the backup maneuver begins. The onboard system scans the environment, identifies obstacles, and computes the backup path in advance, enabling accurate positioning without requiring complex real-time control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical path planning systems with electronic sensors and onboard processing. The trailer uses cameras, ultrasonic sensors, or other electronic detection systems to identify obstacles and compute paths, substituting electronic intelligence for mechanical complexity.
3Speed
If the vehicle steering system operates at high speed with high longitudinal acceleration during backup, then the backup maneuver can be completed faster, but the risk of jackknife conditions and vehicle-trailer contact damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors hitch angle, vehicle speed, and acceleration during the backup maneuver. When jackknife risk is detected through sensor feedback, the control system automatically adjusts steering commands or alerts the driver, enabling safe operation at higher speeds through real-time monitoring and correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects jackknife-enabling conditions in advance and takes countermeasures before the jackknife condition occurs. The control system identifies risky conditions through sensor data and preemptively adjusts steering or speed to prevent jackknife situations from developing.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer backup steering input apparatus provides a trailer steering information signal to a trailer backup assist control module of a vehicle through a signal interface thereof. The trailer steering information signal is configured for enabling the trailer backup assist control module to generate electrical steering commands for a steering system of the vehicle as a function of the trailer steering information signal. The trailer backup steering input apparatus is self-contained and physically detachable/detached form the vehicle. Advantageously, such a trailer backup steering input apparatus saves space, allows for greater flexibility with interior styling of the vehicle, and allows all drivers regardless of stature the ability to have the trailer backup steering input apparatus easily accessible while utilizing the trailer backup assist functionality of the vehicle.