Wireless Trailer Assist Using UWB Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle and trailer operation systems lack efficient communication and positioning data, especially when operating autonomously or semi-autonomously, and require additional personnel for maneuvers, which is inefficient and skill-dependent.
Innovation Solution
A wireless ecosystem of interconnected RF devices with ultra-wide band (UWB) transceivers is used to communicate data between vehicles and trailers, enabling precise distance and position measurements for autonomous or semi-autonomous maneuvers, and providing guidance to operators or control systems for safe and accurate operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wiring harness is used to communicate between vehicle and trailer, then communication is established, but communication is unavailable when vehicle is not connected to trailer and provides limited assistance in vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring harness system with a wireless communication system using RF transceivers. This allows communication between vehicle and trailer without physical connection, enabling the system to function both when connected and disconnected. The wireless system provides comprehensive operation assistance including positioning data, maneuver guidance, and autonomous control capabilities that exceed the limited functionality of traditional wiring harnesses.
2Ease of operation
If a third party with field of view is employed to assist in backup maneuver, then assistance is provided, but additional personnel are required and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the vehicle-trailer combination provides its own maneuver assistance through wireless communication between onboard RF transceivers. The system automatically exchanges positioning data, calculates relative positions, and provides guidance information without requiring external personnel. This eliminates the need for third-party assistants while maintaining ease of operation and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless RF communication as an intermediary between the vehicle and trailer, enabling them to exchange positioning and operational data directly. This intermediary system replaces the human intermediary (third party assistant) with an automated communication channel that continuously provides maneuver assistance information, improving both ease of operation and operational efficiency.
3Extent of automation
If conventional wiring trailer harness systems are used for autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle operations, then basic communication is provided, but exact positioning data and feedback communications required for safe operations are unable to be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional wired harness system with a wireless RF communication system capable of transmitting high-precision positioning data and real-time feedback communications. The wireless system uses transceivers to exchange detailed positional information, enabling accurate measurement and reporting of vehicle-trailer relative positions, which is essential for autonomous and semi-autonomous operations. This substitution provides the measurement precision and data exchange capability that wired harnesses cannot deliver.
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 enhances the safety and efficiency of vehicle and trailer operations by providing precise positioning data and autonomous guidance, reducing the need for additional personnel and improving maneuvering skills, especially in complex environments.
Implementation Method 1
compute, using algorithmic solutions, one or more measurements from a transmission time ascertained of a sending and a receiving of the message data between the RF devices to determine at least a distance between each of the RF devices
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus and method for wireless communication in an ecosystem of wireless devices interconnected for assisting a vehicle, or a vehicle and trailer in maneuvers which includes at least one radio frequency (RF) system configured to operate as part of a vehicle system, a trailer system or combination thereof, or as an independent unit with wireless connectivity to the vehicle and/or trailer system or other independent unit to form the ecosystem of wireless devices interconnected. The RF system includes a transceiver for the wireless connectivity with extended range ultra-wide band capabilities wherein each RF system includes: at least one vehicle RF system, at least one trailer RF system and at least one independent RF unit system.