20240046509. LOCALIZING A FIFTH WHEEL HITCH COUPLER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE simplified abstract (Connaught Electronics Ltd.)

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LOCALIZING A FIFTH WHEEL HITCH COUPLER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

Organization Name

Connaught Electronics Ltd.

Inventor(s)

Narmatha Gopa of Chennai (IN)

Ana Robleda of Tuam, Galway (IE)

LOCALIZING A FIFTH WHEEL HITCH COUPLER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240046509 titled 'LOCALIZING A FIFTH WHEEL HITCH COUPLER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

Simplified Explanation

According to a computer-implemented method for localizing a fifth wheel hitch coupler of a motor vehicle, a camera image depicting the hitch coupler is received from a camera of the motor vehicle and a top view image is generated by projecting the camera image to a plane, which is perpendicular to a predefined height axis of the motor vehicle. A contour map representing a contour of a coupler throat of the hitch coupler is determined based on the top view image and a two-dimensional in-plane position of the coupler throat is determined by fitting a predefined geometric figure to the contour of the coupler throat.

  • The method involves using a camera image of the hitch coupler to generate a top view image by projecting it onto a plane perpendicular to the height axis of the motor vehicle.
  • A contour map representing the contour of the coupler throat is determined based on the top view image.
  • The two-dimensional in-plane position of the coupler throat is determined by fitting a predefined geometric figure to the contour of the coupler throat.

Potential applications of this technology:

  • This technology can be used in the automotive industry for accurately localizing and positioning fifth wheel hitch couplers of motor vehicles.
  • It can assist in automated hitching and unhitching processes, making it easier and more efficient for drivers to connect and disconnect trailers.

Problems solved by this technology:

  • This technology solves the problem of accurately localizing and positioning fifth wheel hitch couplers, which can be challenging and time-consuming for drivers.
  • It eliminates the need for manual measurements and guesswork, ensuring precise alignment between the hitch coupler and the trailer.

Benefits of this technology:

  • Improved accuracy and efficiency in hitching and unhitching processes, reducing the risk of misalignment and potential damage to the trailer or vehicle.
  • Time-saving for drivers, as the technology automates the localization process and eliminates the need for manual measurements.
  • Enhanced safety, as precise alignment between the hitch coupler and the trailer ensures a secure connection during towing.


Original Abstract Submitted

according to a computer-implemented method for localizing a fifth wheel hitch coupler () of a motor vehicle (), a camera image () depicting the hitch coupler () is received from a camera () of the motor vehicle () and a top view image is generated by projecting the camera image () to a plane, which is perpendicular to a predefined height axis of the motor vehicle (). a contour map () representing a contour () of a coupler throat () of the hitch coupler () is determined based on the top view image and a two-dimensional in-plane position of the coupler throat () is determined by fitting a predefined geometric figure () to the contour () of the coupler throat ().