Trailer Parking Control System with Dynamic Obstacle Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems are inadequate in facilitating precise parking maneuvers for trailers, particularly in identifying suitable parking destinations and dynamically adjusting routes to avoid obstructions during parking operations.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system that includes a processor to identify a target parking destination, determine the current trailer position, model a target route, and output vehicle control signals to guide the trailer and vehicle into the parking space, with the ability to dynamically modify the route based on detected obstructions, using a combination of sensors and image processing to assess space and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a computing unit uses image data from multiple video cameras to track trailer position, then the measurement precision of trailer position is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple video cameras (rear camera and door mirror cameras) into a unified computing unit that processes all image data together. This merging approach allows the system to achieve precise trailer position measurement through integrated image processing while managing system complexity through centralized control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing unit performs multiple functions: it processes image data from various cameras, tracks trailer-mounted markers, calculates hitch angles, predicts trailer target routes, and provides driver guidance. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single universal control unit.
2Reliability
If the vehicle control system dynamically modifies the target route based on identified obstructions, then the reliability of the parking maneuver is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the parking environment for obstructions and dynamically adjusts the target route based on this feedback. The computing unit receives real-time data from sensors and cameras, identifies obstacles, and modifies the predicted trailer target route accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The target route is not fixed but dynamically adjustable. The system can modify the predicted trailer target route in response to identified obstructions, allowing the parking maneuver to adapt to real-world conditions. This dynamic capability ensures reliable parking execution even when environmental conditions change during the maneuver.
3Manufacturing precision
If the system assesses candidate parking destinations to determine suitability, then the manufacturing precision of the parking process is improved, but the loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of candidate parking destinations before the actual parking maneuver begins. The computing unit evaluates potential destinations for suitability, checking factors such as space availability and accessibility. This preliminary action ensures that only appropriate destinations are selected, improving parking precision while minimizing time loss by avoiding unsuitable locations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a vehicle control system (1) for controlling a vehicle (3) to facilitate parking a trailer (5) coupled to the vehicle (3). The vehicle control system includes a processor (33) configured to identify a target parking destination (PTAR) for the trailer (5). The current position of the trailer (5) is determined by the processor (33). A target route (R) is then modelled to guide the trailer (5) from its current position to the target parking destination (PTAR). The processor (33) is configured to output a vehicle control signal to control the vehicle (3) to guide the trailer (5) along the target route (R). The invention also relates to a method of controlling a vehicle (3) to facilitate reversing a trailer (5).