Autonomous Reverse Speed Control for Vehicle Trailers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing advanced driver assistance systems are ineffective in controlling the speed of a vehicle when reversing, especially when attached to a trailer, due to factors like hills and varying load weights, which complicates manual speed regulation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a human machine interface (HMI) and a processor that communicates with the vehicle's powertrain and brake system to automatically control the speed in reverse, allowing operators to set a predetermined speed for autonomous backup operations, using sensors to detect trailer attachment and speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual speed control is used during reverse operation with trailer, then the operator can control the vehicle, but it becomes difficult to control desired speed due to hills, rough terrain, and varying load weights
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables autonomous speed control during reverse operation by automatically regulating the powertrain and brake systems. The processor monitors vehicle speed via sensors and autonomously adjusts engine torque and brake application to maintain the desired reverse speed, eliminating the need for complex manual coordination of multiple control inputs by the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors actual vehicle speed using sensors and compares it to the desired reverse speed. The processor uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust powertrain output and brake application, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically compensates for varying terrain and load conditions during reverse operation.
2Measurement precision
If autonomous speed control system is implemented, then precise speed regulation is achieved, but system complexity increases with additional sensors and processors
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single autonomous control framework that simultaneously manages powertrain regulation, brake control, and speed monitoring. The processor performs multiple control tasks and the sensor system serves both autonomous control and traditional monitoring functions, reducing overall system complexity despite enhanced precision capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines autonomous speed control, powertrain management, and brake system control into an integrated system. The processor unifies these previously separate control functions, and the sensor network serves both autonomous operation and traditional vehicle monitoring, reducing the need for separate dedicated systems for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a reverse speed of a vehicle includes receiving a command from an operator to begin an autonomous backup of the vehicle. The method also includes automatically controlling a powertrain and/or a brake system of the vehicle to regulate the vehicle to travel at a predetermined speed in reverse in response receiving the command from the operator.