Trailer Length Detection via Rear Sensor Maneuvers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manually entering the length of a trailer is cumbersome and impractical, especially when drivers need to maneuver trailers in tight spaces or identify the trailer length dynamically while driving.
Innovation Solution
A tow vehicle equipped with sensors on its rear portion that detect trailer length by executing predefined maneuvers, allowing the vehicle to autonomously or semi-automatically determine the trailer length without manual input, using data processing hardware to analyze sensor data and transmit the length to a user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual entry of trailer length is required, then measurement precision is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the trailer to self-measure its own length by executing predefined maneuvers and analyzing sensor data automatically, eliminating the need for manual entry while ensuring accurate measurement information is captured and stored
2Productivity
If predefined maneuvers are executed to detect trailer length, then productivity is improved, but duration of action of moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses partial maneuvers (such as turning only a portion of the vehicle or executing simplified detection sequences) rather than complete extensive driving tests, reducing the time required while still obtaining sufficient data for accurate trailer length determination
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a length of a trailer attached to a tow vehicle having one or more sensors positioned on a back portion of the tow vehicle facing the trailer is disclosed. The method includes receiving, at a data processing hardware in communication with the one or more sensors, first sensor data associated with a first position of the tow vehicle. The method includes receiving, at the data processing hardware, second sensor data associated with a second position of the tow vehicle. The second position is different from the first position. The method also includes receiving, at the data processing hardware, third sensor data associated with a third position of the tow vehicle. The third position is different from the first position and the second position. The method includes determining, at the data processing hardware, a length of the trailer based on the first, second, and third sensor data.