Trailer Axle-to-Tongue Distance Estimation via Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trailer users face challenges in accurately measuring the distance from the trailer axle to the trailer tongue, as they often lack access to measuring tools and are unsure of where to take measurements, leading to confusion and improper measurements.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a processor to receive and analyze images of a trailer, identify the axle and tongue-end, and retrieve the wheel diameter from a tire image to calculate the distance between the axle and tongue-end, with user assistance for manual identification when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tape measure is used to measure the distance from trailer axle to tongue, then measurement can be obtained, but the user must have access to a tape measure and know where to measure from
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement system (tape measure) with an optical/image-based system. The processor captures images of the trailer, identifies the axle and tongue positions, and calculates the distance using image processing algorithms. This substitution eliminates the need for users to physically handle measuring tools and understand measurement points, as the system automatically detects these features in the image.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically identifying the axle and tongue positions and calculating the distance without requiring user intervention or knowledge of measurement procedures. The processor autonomously processes the image, locates relevant features, and computes the result, making the measurement process independent of user expertise or tool availability.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement with a tape measure is required, then distance can be measured, but users experience confusion about measurement points and lack of access to tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement tool (tape measure) with an electronic image processing system. The processor uses computer vision to identify the axle and tongue in the captured image and calculates the distance between them, eliminating the need for physical measuring tools and simplifying the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the trailer through image capture and processing. Instead of physically measuring the actual trailer, the processor works with a digital representation (image) to identify features and calculate distances, providing a non-contact measurement approach that avoids the complexities of physical tool usage.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a processor configured to receive a trailer image. The processor is also configured to identify an axle in the trailer image and identify a tongue-end in the trailer image. Further, the processor is configured to receive a tire image, including a wheel diameter provided on a tire. The processor is additionally configured to retrieve the wheel diameter from the tire image. The processor is also configured to identify a wheel, having an indentified diameter corresponding to the wheel diameter, in the first image. Additionally, the processor is configured to calculate a distance from the axle to the tongue-end using the identified diameter.