18116790. TOW HITCH LEAD IN SYSTEM simplified abstract (TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
- 1 TOW HITCH LEAD IN SYSTEM
- 1.1 Organization Name
- 1.2 Inventor(s)
- 1.3 TOW HITCH LEAD IN SYSTEM - A simplified explanation of the abstract
- 1.4 Simplified Explanation
- 1.5 Key Features and Innovation
- 1.6 Potential Applications
- 1.7 Problems Solved
- 1.8 Benefits
- 1.9 Commercial Applications
- 1.10 Prior Art
- 1.11 Frequently Updated Research
- 1.12 Questions about Vehicle and Trailer Alignment
- 1.13 Original Abstract Submitted
TOW HITCH LEAD IN SYSTEM
Organization Name
TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Inventor(s)
Lauren M. Abro of West Bloomfield MI (US)
Yuko N. Gidcumb of West Bloomfield MI (US)
Michelle R. Vargo of Plymouth MI (US)
Lindsay A. Babian of Canton MI (US)
TOW HITCH LEAD IN SYSTEM - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18116790 titled 'TOW HITCH LEAD IN SYSTEM
Simplified Explanation
Methods and systems for aligning a vehicle and a trailer using a guide, sensors, and an electronic control unit.
- Guide coupled to the vehicle's tow hitch with a first and second arm to receive the trailer's tongue.
- Sensors along the guide detect alignment data between the vehicle and the trailer.
- Electronic control unit processes sensor data to determine the position of the trailer's tongue relative to the guide.
Key Features and Innovation
- Guide with two arms for precise alignment of the vehicle and trailer.
- Sensors provide real-time data on the alignment status.
- Electronic control unit automates the alignment process for ease of use.
Potential Applications
This technology can be used in various industries such as transportation, logistics, and recreational vehicle operations.
Problems Solved
This technology solves the issue of manual alignment of vehicles and trailers, reducing the risk of accidents and improving efficiency.
Benefits
- Improved safety during vehicle and trailer alignment.
- Time-saving and convenient automated alignment process.
- Enhanced precision in positioning the trailer.
Commercial Applications
- Commercial trucking companies can benefit from faster and safer trailer alignment processes.
- RV owners can easily hitch and unhitch trailers without manual alignment challenges.
Prior Art
Prior art related to this technology may include patents or research on vehicle and trailer alignment systems, sensor technology, and electronic control units in automotive applications.
Frequently Updated Research
Researchers may be exploring advancements in sensor technology for even more accurate alignment data or improvements in electronic control units for faster processing speeds.
Questions about Vehicle and Trailer Alignment
How does this technology improve safety in the transportation industry?
This technology enhances safety by providing precise alignment data, reducing the risk of accidents during vehicle and trailer maneuvers.
What are the potential cost-saving benefits for commercial trucking companies using this system?
Commercial trucking companies can save time and money by streamlining the trailer alignment process, leading to increased efficiency and reduced operational costs.
Original Abstract Submitted
Methods and systems for aligning a vehicle and a trailer. The system includes a guide coupled to a tow hitch of the vehicle, a plurality of sensors disposed along the guide, and an electronic control unit (ECU). The guide includes a first arm extending from a hinge and a second arm extending from the hinge. The first arm and the second arm are configured to provide a space therebetween to receive a tongue of the trailer. The plurality of sensors are configured to detect sensor data indicative of an alignment between the vehicle and the trailer. The ECU is configured to receive the sensor data, determine a position of the tongue relative to the first arm and the second arm, and transmit the determination to the vehicle.
