Trailer Hitch Alignment via Deceleration Detection
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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 sight lines, requiring repeated maneuvers and potential collisions, as the hitch ball is often obscured and alignment is inferred, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system equipped with an accelerometer, controller, and brake system that detects deceleration during reversing and transmits actuation signals to the brake system to prevent collisions, while also steering to align the hitch ball with the trailer coupler, using sensors and image processing to monitor and adjust the alignment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the driver manually aligns the hitch ball with the trailer coupler during reversing maneuvers, then the hitching operation can be completed, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires multiple stopping and steering adjustments due to poor sight lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated image processing and control system. Cameras capture images of the trailer coupler, image processing algorithms automatically determine alignment status, and the control system adjusts steering and braking without driver intervention, thereby eliminating the time-consuming manual trial-and-error alignment process
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the vehicle to automatically perform alignment operations without continuous driver input. The image processing system continuously monitors the relative position of the hitch ball and coupler, and the control system autonomously executes steering corrections and braking actions to achieve proper alignment, allowing the system to service itself during the critical alignment phase
2Measurement precision
If the driver repeatedly stops and steps out of the vehicle to confirm alignment, then positioning accuracy can be verified, but the operation becomes more time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual verification with an automated image processing system. Cameras mounted on the vehicle capture images of the trailer coupler, and processing algorithms automatically analyze the relative positions of the hitch ball and coupler to determine alignment status, eliminating the need for the driver to exit the vehicle and providing continuous precise measurement without adding operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback through the image processing system that monitors alignment status in real-time during reversing maneuvers. The processed image data provides immediate feedback to the control system, which automatically adjusts steering and braking to maintain proper alignment, eliminating the need for intermittent manual verification while maintaining high precision throughout the operation
3Ease of operation
If the driver performs multiple forward and reverse driving maneuvers to align the hitch ball, then positioning can be achieved, but the risk of collision between the vehicle and trailer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual maneuvering control with an automated control system that uses image processing to continuously monitor the distance and relative position between the vehicle and trailer. The control system automatically executes precise steering and braking maneuvers, eliminating the need for multiple trial-and-error forward and reverse operations that increase collision risk while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by using the image processing system to detect potential collision conditions before they occur. When the system detects that the vehicle is approaching the trailer too quickly or at an improper angle, it preemptively applies braking force and adjusts steering to prevent the collision, rather than reacting after the collision has already begun
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
The system effectively prevents collisions and simplifies the hitching process by automatically detecting deceleration and adjusting the vehicle's position to align the hitch ball with the coupler, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer mounted on the vehicle, and a controller. The controller receives a first signal from the accelerometer and, during reversing of the vehicle in a longitudinal direction, transmits an actuation signal to the vehicle brake system when the first signal from the accelerometer indicates a deceleration in the longitudinal direction above a predetermined rate within a predetermined time interval
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle system includes a vehicle brake system, an accelerometer mounted on the vehicle, and a controller. The controller receives a first signal from the accelerometer and, during reversing of the vehicle in a longitudinal direction, transmits an actuation signal to the vehicle brake system when the first signal from the accelerometer indicates a deceleration in the longitudinal direction above a predetermined rate within a predetermined time interval.