Trailer Presence Detection Using CMS Image Feature Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting trailer presence in commercial vehicles, such as force-based detection on the trailer hitch, are not robust and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A camera monitor system (CMS) that utilizes image analysis by comparing detected features in a region of interest from a camera feed with reference features to determine trailer attachment, employing algorithms like BRISK and SURF for feature detection and comparison, and enabling/disabling CMS features based on trailer connection status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If force-based detection on the trailer hitch is used, then the detection method is simple to implement, but the reliability of trailer presence detection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical force-based detection system with an optical image analysis system. A camera captures images of the trailer coupling region, and image processing algorithms analyze these images to detect trailer presence. This substitution of mechanical detection with optical-digital detection resolves the contradiction by providing both ease of implementation (through automated image processing) and high reliability (through robust feature recognition algorithms that can distinguish trailers from background objects).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image processing system that acts as a mediator between the physical trailer coupling and the detection system. Instead of directly measuring force at the hitch, the system uses a camera to capture visual information and employs feature detection algorithms (such as ORB, SURF, or SIFT) to identify characteristic features of the trailer coupling region. This intermediary approach enables reliable detection while maintaining implementation simplicity through standardized computer vision techniques.
2Reliability
If image analysis with feature detection algorithms is used, then the reliability of trailer presence detection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing task into distinct segments: first, the image is captured by a camera; second, feature detection algorithms identify key points in the image; third, these features are compared against reference features stored in memory; and fourth, a determination is made about trailer presence. This segmentation of the detection process into discrete, manageable steps reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability through specialized processing at each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-storing reference features of the trailer coupling region in memory before actual detection occurs. During operation, the system only needs to compare detected features against these pre-established references, significantly simplifying the real-time processing requirements. This preliminary preparation of reference data reduces the computational complexity during actual trailer detection while ensuring reliable identification through consistent comparison criteria.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for a camera monitor system (CMS) includes utilizing a camera mounted to a tractor of a commercial vehicle to obtain an image feed having a region of interest that would depict a trailer if a trailer was connected to the tractor; detecting one or more features in the region of interest of an image from the image feed; comparing the one or more detected features to one or more reference features corresponding to presence of the trailer; and determining whether the trailer is attached to the tractor based on the comparing. A camera monitor system (CMS) is also disclosed.