20240046509. LOCALIZING A FIFTH WHEEL HITCH COUPLER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE simplified abstract (Connaught Electronics Ltd.)
Contents
LOCALIZING A FIFTH WHEEL HITCH COUPLER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
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 ().