Trailer Hitch Alignment via Camera-Based Target Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drivers face challenges in aligning a vehicle hitch with a trailer coupler due to their low, non-visible locations, making it difficult to position the vehicle correctly without direct visual cues or obstruction detection.
Innovation Solution
A camera system with a field of view behind the vehicle, combined with radar and ultrasonic sensors, analyzes image data to detect targets on the hitch and coupler, calculating a path for the vehicle to align them within a predetermined distance, and optionally controls steering and braking to achieve alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the trailer hitch is positioned low on the rear of the vehicle for proper connection geometry, then the connection alignment is improved, but the visibility of the hitch and coupling to the driver is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces camera systems and display interfaces as intermediary devices that mediate between the low-positioned hitch components and the driver's line of sight. The cameras capture images of the hitch and coupling areas, while the display presents processed visual information including augmented reality overlays showing the relative positions and alignment status of the hitch components, effectively bridging the visibility gap created by the low mounting position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates visual copies of the physical hitch and coupling components through camera imaging. The display shows real-time or near-real-time images of the trailer hitch, coupling, and surrounding area, allowing the driver to see a visual representation of components that are physically below the driver's sightline. This copying approach enables visual monitoring without changing the physical positions of the hitch components.
2Device complexity
If the driver manually positions the vehicle to align the hitch with the coupling, then the system complexity is reduced, but the alignment accuracy and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where cameras monitor the relative positions of the hitch and coupling in real-time, the controller processes this visual data to determine alignment status, and the display provides immediate feedback to the driver about the current alignment state. This feedback mechanism enables the driver to make precise manual adjustments based on real-time visual information, significantly improving alignment accuracy compared to manual positioning without assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the spatial relationship between the hitch and coupling before the actual connection is made. The camera system captures images and the controller calculates the required vehicle movements or adjustments needed to achieve proper alignment, allowing the driver to make informed positioning decisions in advance rather than through trial and error during the connection process.
3Device complexity
If the driver attempts to align the hitch without visual cues, then the equipment simplicity is maintained, but the alignment time and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera and display system acts as an intermediary that provides visual cues without requiring complex additional equipment. The system uses standard imaging technology and display interfaces already common in modern vehicles, presenting processed visual information that shows the relative positions of the hitch and coupling, distance measurements, and alignment guidance, thereby reducing alignment time while maintaining equipment simplicity.
4Device complexity
If the vehicle moves without obstruction detection, then the system complexity is reduced, but the safety during alignment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides visual alignment guidance to the driver while also detecting obstacles in the vehicle's path. The same imaging devices used to show the hitch and coupling positions can identify pedestrians, animals, or other obstacles, eliminating the need for separate detection systems and maintaining equipment simplicity while improving safety through multi-functional use of the camera system.
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 1A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A system for assisting a driver in aligning a trailer hitch of a vehicle with a trailer coupling of a trailer. The system includes a camera system with a field of view behind the vehicle. A controller analyzes image data from the camera system and detects a first target affixed to the trailer coupling. The first target is of a known size and dimensions. The controller determines the location of the trailer coupling relative to the trailer hitch based on the image data and the known size and dimensions of the trailer coupling marker. The controller then determines a path of travel from the current position of the vehicle to a second position where the trailer hitch will be positioned within a predetermined threshold distance from the trailer coupling.