Trailer Brake Control via Image Analysis Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for calculating trailer brake control parameters are inadequate, as they rely on manual input or limited sensing methods, which can lead to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in trailer brake activation, especially when towing vehicles encounter varying road conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes image analysis logic to determine trailer characteristics from images, allowing for the calculation of trailer brake control parameters, including system gain and surface coefficient of friction, through a processor-based method that includes user confirmation and adjustment options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual input methods are used to determine trailer characteristics, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of brake control parameters deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical input methods with an automated image analysis system using computer vision technology. The system captures images of the trailer and automatically extracts characteristics such as trailer type, size, and weight class through image processing algorithms, eliminating the need for manual input while significantly improving measurement precision and reliability of brake control parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the trailer brake control parameter calculation to be self-sufficient by automatically determining trailer characteristics from images without requiring user intervention. The image analysis logic independently processes the captured images, extracts relevant features, and generates the necessary parameters for brake control, making the system autonomous and reducing operational complexity.
2Measurement precision
If extensive user knowledge and manual input are required, then measurement precision may improve, but ease of operation and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically capturing images and extracting trailer characteristics without requiring user knowledge or manual input. The image analysis logic autonomously processes the visual data to determine trailer type, size, and other characteristics, eliminating the need for users to have specialized knowledge while maintaining high measurement precision through automated computer vision techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes manual user input operations with automated image capture and analysis systems. The system uses cameras to capture trailer images and employs image processing algorithms to automatically extract characteristics, replacing the need for manual measurement and input operations while improving both ease of operation and measurement precision simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If fixed brake control parameters are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying road conditions and trailer characteristics deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic brake control parameters that automatically adapt to different trailer characteristics and road conditions. The system calculates brake control parameters in real-time based on image analysis results and environmental sensors, allowing the brake control system to dynamically adjust to varying conditions rather than using fixed parameters, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where image analysis results and sensor data about road conditions are continuously fed into the brake control parameter calculation algorithm. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust brake control parameters based on actual trailer characteristics and environmental conditions, improving adaptability while the automated nature of the feedback processing keeps device complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and vehicles for calculating trailer brake control parameters are disclosed. A system for calculating a trailer brake control parameter includes one or more processors, one or more memory modules communicatively coupled to the one or more processors, and machine readable instructions stored in the one or more memory modules. The one or more memory modules include the trailer brake control parameter. The machine readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the system to receive an image including a trailer, determine a trailer characteristic from the image using image analysis logic stored in the one or more memory modules, and calculate the trailer brake control parameter based on the trailer characteristic.