Trailer Detection System Using Multi-Perspective Neural Network Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hitching a trailer to a vehicle is a difficult and time-consuming process due to the lack of clear sightlines, requiring repeated maneuvers and manual checks to align the hitch ball with the trailer hitch, often resulting in potential contact between the vehicle and trailer.
Innovation Solution
A trailer identification system that uses an imaging device and neural network to detect and align the trailer, capturing image data from multiple perspectives, allowing for real-time guidance and adjustment of the vehicle's path to ensure proper alignment through a user interface and power steering system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment methods are used to hitch a trailer to a vehicle, then the driver can control the vehicle directly, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires repeated maneuvers due to lack of sightlines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of imaging devices, processors, and display interfaces that mediate between the driver and the trailer hitching process. The system captures images from multiple cameras, processes them to determine trailer position and orientation, and provides guidance information to the driver, thereby eliminating the need for repeated manual trial-and-error maneuvers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical/manual alignment process with an automated optical and computational system. Instead of relying on the driver's physical observation and manual control, the system uses imaging devices to capture visual data, processors to analyze trailer position, and electronic displays to communicate alignment status, substituting mechanical trial-and-error with automated visual feedback
2Measurement precision
If the driver manually aligns the hitch ball with the trailer hitch, then direct control is maintained, but multiple stopping and stepping out are required to confirm alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the trailer detection and alignment task into multiple independent components: imaging devices for data collection, processors for image analysis and trailer parameter determination, display interfaces for information presentation, and control systems for vehicle maneuvering. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function, improving overall measurement precision while distributing system complexity across modular elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where the same imaging devices and processors serve multiple purposes: detecting trailer presence, determining trailer position and orientation, calculating alignment status, and providing guidance information. This universality improves measurement precision through integrated data processing while managing device complexity by reusing components across multiple functions
3Reliability
If repeated forward and reverse driving maneuvers are performed to align the vehicle, then the hitch ball can be positioned, but the risk of contact between vehicle and trailer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where imaging devices continuously monitor the relative position between the vehicle and trailer, the processor analyzes this data to determine alignment status, and the display interface provides real-time feedback to the driver about proximity to proper alignment. This feedback loop enables the driver to make precise adjustments without repeated large maneuvers, improving safety by reducing overshoot risk while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by having the imaging devices and processors continuously gather and analyze data about trailer position and vehicle-trailer relative positioning before the actual hitching connection is made. The system pre-calculates alignment status and provides advance guidance information, allowing the driver to make precise final adjustments without aggressive maneuvering that could cause contact
Data Source
AI summary
A method for modifying a trailer detection routine for a vehicle trailer detection system includes identifying a trailer in image data via a trailer detection model and activating a detection training routine for the trailer. The method further includes capturing the image data of the trailer from a plurality of perspectives relative to a trailer heading of the trailer and controlling an update procedure configured to generate a modified trailer detection model operable to detect the trailer.