Trailer Hitch Camera View Switching via Ultrasonic Distance Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current reversing systems with camera-based trailer hitch views are limited in displaying the rear area effectively, as distant objects are distorted, and manual switching between overall and close-up views is required, making it difficult for drivers to precisely align the trailer during hitching.
Innovation Solution
An automatic switching mechanism between a wide rear view and a close-up view of the trailer hitch, triggered by an ultrasonic sensor detecting the trailer's distance, allowing for seamless hitching operations without manual view changes, using a single camera and ultrasonic sensor for precise object detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a zoomed-in view of the trailer hitch is displayed to support the hitching process, then the close-up area around the trailer hitch can be visualized clearly, but the driver cannot see the rest of the rear area and has difficulty finding the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two different camera views (overall rear area view and zoomed-in trailer hitch view) based on the detected distance to the trailer. When the trailer is far away, the overall view is displayed; when the trailer is close, the zoomed-in view is displayed. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by providing the appropriate level of detail at the appropriate time during the hitching process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the display parameter (view magnification) based on the distance parameter detected by the ultrasonic sensor. As the distance parameter changes during the hitching process, the system automatically adjusts the view parameter to maintain optimal visualization for the current stage of the operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching between overall area view and trailer hitch view is required, then the driver can choose the appropriate view, but the operation becomes complex and requires constant manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic view switching based on ultrasonic distance detection, eliminating the need for manual driver intervention. The system serves itself by automatically determining when to switch between views based on the detected distance to the trailer, thereby maintaining view selection flexibility while greatly simplifying the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic sensor provides continuous feedback about the distance to the trailer, which the control system uses to automatically determine when to switch views. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to changing conditions during hitching without requiring manual input from the driver.
3Device complexity
If a single camera is used for both overall view and close-up view, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide both views simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
A single camera dynamically changes its viewing mode between overall area view and zoomed-in trailer hitch view based on the detected distance to the trailer. This dynamic switching capability allows the single camera to provide both types of views at different times, maintaining device simplicity while supporting efficient hitching operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates safe and simple trailer coupling by providing an accurate representation of the trailer hitch area when necessary, preventing unwanted collisions through automatic view adjustment and potential engine control interventions.
Implementation Method 1
The additional object detection device detects an exact distance to the object located behind the vehicle, i.e. to the drawbar of the trailer. In addition, this can be done by means of the camera. According to the invention, the object detection device is an ultrasonic sensor.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves detecting a rearward total area behind a vehicle (8) in a view (11), and detecting a close range around a trailer coupling (5) of the vehicle in another view (12). The former view of the rearward total area is displayed while distance between a trailer (7) and the trailer coupling is larger than a predetermined distance. The latter view of the close range of the trailer coupling is displayed when distance between the vehicle and the trailer is smaller than the predetermined distance. Distance to an object behind the vehicle is determined by an ultrasonic sensor (3). An independent claim is also included for a control device for executing a method for assisting coupling of a trailer to a vehicle.