Vision-Based Hitch Docking for Precise Trailer Coupler Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for hitch-docking between vehicles and trailers lack efficient and user-friendly methods for accurately aligning coupling members with coupling receivers, particularly in electric vehicles, which can be hindered by obstacles and the need for precise maneuvering.
Innovation Solution
Employing sensors such as time-of-flight sensors or cameras to detect the location of coupling receivers, combined with user interfaces and gesture recognition, to facilitate precise alignment and maneuvering of the vehicle using control signals for steering, propulsion, and suspension adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors and image processing are used to detect coupling receiver location, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment methods with an automated vision-based system. Cameras capture images of the coupling receiver, image processing algorithms automatically detect its location and calculate alignment requirements, eliminating the need for manual visual estimation and mechanical adjustment trial-and-error processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processing system as an intermediary between the user and the hitching mechanism. This intermediary automatically processes visual information, determines coupling receiver location, generates alignment control signals, and coordinates vehicle maneuvers, simplifying the user interface while enhancing precision.
2Productivity
If automated control signals are generated for vehicle maneuvering, then productivity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the coupling receiver, calculating the optimal path, generating control signals for steering and propulsion, and executing the maneuvering sequence without requiring the operator to manually control each aspect of the alignment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the vehicle's position and the coupling receiver's location during the maneuvering process, comparing actual positions with target positions, and dynamically adjusting control signals to maintain alignment accuracy throughout the automated hitching sequence.
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
Enables accurate and user-friendly hitch-docking by allowing users to confirm and adjust the alignment of coupling members with coupling receivers through intuitive interfaces, enhancing safety and efficiency in the hitching process.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a location of a coupling receiver of a towed assembly configured to interface with a coupling member of a vehicle, the location based on image data associated with a camera of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
The systems can employ sensors, such as time-of-flight sensors or cameras, to detect the location of the coupling receiver
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are gaming systems and methods for providing all-in card games. A data processing system can receive a wager and generate a graphical user interface having a player hand and a graphical element indicating a set of player and opponent gaming resources, with the set of opponent gaming resources outnumbering the player gaming resources. The graphical user interface includes a set of interactive graphical elements that update the game state. The set of interactive graphical elements consists only of a first element that stakes all the player gaming resources and a second element that indicates a fold. The data processing system can determine an updated game state responsive to an interaction with the first or second interactive element. The data processing system can initiate a subsequent play responsive to determining that the set of player and opponent gaming resources is greater than zero.