Trailer Path Prediction Using UWB for Precise Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for predicting the path of a trailer connected to a motor vehicle face challenges in achieving centimeter-level accuracy and require complex manual calibration processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of a camera, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor, and an ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor to provide centimeter-level accuracy for trailer path prediction, with the UWB sensor enhancing localization performance and improving image stitching in surround view systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Bluetooth or Wi-Fi sensors are used for trailer path prediction, then wireless communication is established, but localization accuracy deteriorates (cannot provide centimeter level accuracy)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of wireless technology from conventional Bluetooth/Wi-Fi to Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. This parameter change enables the system to achieve centimeter-level localization accuracy (improving measurement precision) while maintaining wireless communication capabilities (preserving adaptability). The UWB technology's ability to provide precise distance measurements through time-of-flight calculation resolves the contradiction between wireless communication and localization accuracy.
2Extent of automation
If software algorithm techniques are used to fuse available information, then trailer movement localization is achieved, but prediction accuracy deteriorates (cannot achieve centimeter level accuracy)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-only algorithmic fusion with a hybrid system that incorporates UWB hardware sensors. The UWB sensors provide direct physical measurement of distance and position through electromagnetic wave time-of-flight calculation, substituting the insufficient software-based estimation with hardware-based precise measurement. This enables automatic localization (maintaining extent of automation) while achieving centimeter-level accuracy (improving measurement precision).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite sensing system that combines UWB sensors, IMU sensors, and camera systems. This composite approach integrates multiple sensing modalities where UWB provides precise distance measurement, IMU provides motion dynamics, and cameras provide visual context. The fusion of these diverse sensors achieves both automatic operation and centimeter-level accuracy, resolving the contradiction between automation and precision.
3Ease of operation
If manual calibration procedures are used for trailer-connected cameras, then camera synchronization is achieved, but the calibration process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service calibration where the system automatically determines camera positions and synchronization parameters using UWB sensor data. The UWB sensors provide precise relative position information between the trailer and vehicle, which the system uses to automatically calibrate camera feeds without manual intervention. This maintains camera synchronization capability while eliminating the complexity and time-consuming nature of manual calibration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The UWB sensor system acts as an intermediary that provides precise spatial reference information to facilitate automatic camera calibration. Instead of directly calibrating cameras through complex manual procedures, the system uses UWB distance measurements as an intermediate reference to automatically determine camera positions and orientations, simplifying the calibration process while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
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
This solution enables precise trailer path predictions, simplifies the calibration process, and enhances the accuracy of camera grid lines and surround view image stitching, improving overall driver visibility and safety.
Implementation Method 1
An ultra-wideband initiator is mounted on the motor vehicle and senses a distance between the ultra-wideband initiator and the ultra-wideband responder
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer path prediction arrangement for a motor vehicle includes an ultra-wideband responder mounted on a trailer that is coupled to the motor vehicle. An ultra-wideband initiator is mounted on the motor vehicle and senses a distance and angle between the ultra-wideband initiator and the ultra-wideband responder. An electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the ultra-wideband initiator and is mounted on the motor vehicle. The electronic processor predicts a path to be taken by the trailer. The predicting is dependent upon the sensed distance and angle between the ultra-wideband initiator and the ultra-wideband responder.