Remote Trailer Maneuver Assist Interface Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote trailer maneuver-assist systems face challenges in accurately controlling the longitudinal direction of travel, turning radius, and continuous movement of trailers from a mobile app interface, making it difficult for users to intuitively guide trailers into desired positions.
Innovation Solution
A mobile app interface with a single user-friendly design that allows users to control the direction of travel and initiate movement using icons and a continuous track input, enabling simultaneous control of direction and speed, with the local control unit performing motive functions based on user input via a mobile device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mobile app interface is used for remote trailer maneuver control, then users can control trailers from a remote location, but the control precision for direction of travel and turning radius deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a visual copy of the trailer's actual position and orientation on the mobile device screen. The displayed image replicates the real-world scene, allowing users to intuitively understand the trailer's location and make precise directional adjustments without physically being at the trailer.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously provides visual feedback by displaying real-time or near-real-time images of the trailer's position and surroundings on the mobile device. This feedback loop enables users to see the effect of their control inputs immediately, allowing for precise adjustments to direction of travel and turning radius.
2Ease of operation
If a mobile app interface is used for remote trailer maneuver control, then users can control trailers from a remote location, but the control precision for turning radius deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The visual display on the mobile device creates a copy of the physical environment, showing the trailer's position relative to obstacles and the desired path. This visual replica enables users to judge turning radius requirements and make appropriate control adjustments without physical presence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous visual feedback about the trailer's position and the path being followed, enabling users to assess whether the turning radius is appropriate and make real-time adjustments to achieve the desired turning precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control functions are integrated in the mobile app interface, then the system becomes more versatile, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile app interface is designed to perform multiple control functions including direction control, speed control, and maneuver initiation through a unified interface. This multi-functional design consolidates various control capabilities into a single application, reducing the need for multiple separate controls while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are disclosed for interfaces for remote trailer maneuver-assist. An example trailer maneuver-assist system includes a mobile device including a touchscreen to present an interface. The interface includes an icon for receiving a direction-of-travel and a track for receiving a continuous motion input. The example trailer maneuver-assist system also includes a vehicle. The vehicle includes a communication module for wireless communication with the mobile device and a local control unit that performs motive functions in the direction-of-travel while the mobile device receives the continuous motion input via the touchscreen.