Automated Trailer Hitching System with Camera-Based Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle trailer hitching systems require significant operator involvement and are not fully automated, making the alignment process inefficient and prone to errors, especially when using rear-facing cameras and side/rear view mirrors.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a CAN bus and rearview camera to automatically align a vehicle with a tow trailer by interpreting image information and controlling vehicle parameters, such as wheel angle and speed, to determine the correct alignment and adjust the steering wheel accordingly, allowing for semi-automatic or fully automatic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual trailer hitching operation is used, then the system is simple and easy to manufacture, but the alignment process is time-consuming and requires significant operator involvement
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single control unit that processes data from various sensors (cameras, ultrasonic sensors, GPS), calculates alignment parameters, and controls vehicle steering and movement, making the system highly automated while managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the sensors that detect trailer position and the vehicle's steering and movement systems, processing image and sensor data to generate appropriate control signals for automated alignment
2Measurement precision
If manual trailer hitching operation is used, then the system structure is simple, but the alignment precision and accuracy are low
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously captures images of the trailer, processes the image data to determine trailer position and orientation, compares the current alignment status with the target alignment, and adjusts steering commands in real-time based on the alignment error feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual visual estimation and mechanical alignment methods with automated image processing and computer vision algorithms that analyze trailer features in captured images to precisely determine alignment status
3Productivity
If manual trailer hitching operation is used, then the operation cost is low, but the productivity and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously captures images during the backing maneuver, processes each frame to update alignment status, and dynamically adjusts steering commands throughout the entire alignment process, maintaining continuous useful action rather than discrete manual adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle trailer connect system and automated parking system for use with a motor vehicle. Apparatus of the system has an input for obtaining information from a vehicle communication bus; an output for sending information to a vehicle communications bus; a control circuit for controlling the position and movement of a motor vehicle; an image gathering system to obtain visual or spatial data between a motor vehicle hitch and a hitch receiver attached to the trailer. A system controller guides vehicle steering as the vehicle is backed through a field of view of the image gathering system.