Trailer Coupler Height Detection Using Marker-Based Rear Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate and reliable detection of trailer angle measurements is challenging for towing assist systems, particularly for infrequent drivers or those with various types of trailers, affecting the operation of vehicle-trailer interface positioning.
Innovation Solution
A towing assist system using a marker on the trailer, an imaging device on the vehicle, and a controller to process image data to detect and identify the coupler position without prior programming, transforming the image data to a bird's-eye view, and comparing marker scales to templates for precise coupler height and position calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If trailer angle detection relies on predetermined marker locations, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different trailers and coupler positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects and adapts to the marker's actual position on the trailer without requiring predetermined location information. The controller processes image data to identify the marker's position and calculates coupler height dynamically, allowing the system to serve itself by eliminating the need for pre-programmed marker locations and adapting to various trailer configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the marker position is indeterminate and not predetermined, then versatility across different trailers is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring coupler position increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces traditional mechanical or pre-programmed measurement approaches with optical image processing. The controller captures images of the marker, processes the image data to determine marker position and scale, and calculates coupler height based on these visual measurements, substituting optical detection for mechanical positioning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The marker serves as an intermediary object that facilitates coupler position detection. By detecting the marker's position and scale in the image, the system indirectly determines the coupler height and position without directly measuring them, using the marker as a中介 reference point.
3Measurement precision
If the system requires predetermined marker locations in memory, then measurement precision may be improved, but adaptability to various trailer types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, pre-programmed approach to a dynamic, adaptive measurement system. The controller dynamically determines marker position and scale based on real-time image data, allowing the measurement system to adapt to different trailer types and marker locations while maintaining precision through automated image processing and calculation.
Data Source
AI summary
A towing assist system for a vehicle includes a marker positioned on a trailer. An imaging device is in connection with the vehicle and configured to capture image data demonstrating a rearward-directed field of view. A controller processes the image data depicting the characteristic marker and detects the characteristic marker in the image data. The controller further identifies a coupler position or coupler height of a coupling interface of the trailer in response to a position of the marker in at least one frame of the image data.