Wireless Trailer Backing Control via ECU Interpretation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Backward maneuvering of trailers attached to vehicles is challenging, especially when reversing, as drivers often struggle to control the trailer's direction, leading to potential jack-knifing and the need for multiple operators, particularly for those unfamiliar with vehicle and trailer systems.
Innovation Solution
A backing system that utilizes an electronic control unit (ECU) connected to a control device, allowing users to input desired actions via a wireless controller, which interprets these inputs to calculate necessary vehicle responses and sends instructions to vehicle systems for precise control of the vehicle and trailer movement, including steering, braking, and gear shifting, even when the user is outside the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a trailer is connected to a towing vehicle through a trailer hitch allowing horizontal swiveling, then the vehicle-trailer unit can move around corners, but the trailer becomes difficult to control in reverse and may jack-knife
Solution Approach 1:
A spotter acts as an intermediary between the driver and the trailer, providing visual feedback and guidance. The spotter communicates steering wheel position requirements to the driver, mediating the complex relationship between vehicle steering input and trailer movement outcome during reverse maneuvers
Solution Approach 2:
The spotter provides continuous visual feedback to the driver about the trailer's position and the required steering wheel position. This feedback loop allows the driver to make real-time adjustments to steering input based on observed trailer movement, improving control during reverse operations
2Reliability
If multiple persons are used to control the vehicle and trailer during backing, then directional control and safety improve, but system complexity and operational time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The driver performs both the primary function of operating the vehicle and the secondary function of spotting/trailer control. By using a mirror system that provides visual feedback directly to the driver, the system enables self-service operation where one person accomplishes what previously required multiple operators
Solution Approach 2:
A mechanical mirror system replaces the human spotter's visual assessment function. The mirror provides direct visual feedback to the driver about trailer position and steering wheel position, substituting the mechanical/visual system for the human intermediary
3Reliability
If an incorrect steering angle is applied in the vehicle during reverse, then the trailer may jack-knife and lose its course, but determining the correct steering angle is difficult for unaccustomed operators
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror system provides real-time visual feedback showing the relationship between steering wheel position and trailer response. This feedback allows operators to learn and internalize the correct steering angles through observation and adjustment, making the system intuitive even for unaccustomed users
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a visual reference system before reverse maneuvers begin. By showing the driver what the correct steering positions look like in the mirror, the system prepares the driver in advance with the information needed to make correct steering decisions
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a backing system for a vehicle and trailer assembly comprises initiating a backing system mode with an electronic control unit (ECU) for the backing system when a start system input is received from a control device. At least one input is received by the ECU from the control device which includes information about a desired vehicle action. The ECU interprets from the at least one input the desired vehicle action and calculates a required vehicle response to achieve the desired vehicle action. The ECU then sends a request to at least one vehicle system to perform the calculated vehicle response.