GB2518857A - Vehicle towing configuration system and method - Google Patents
Vehicle towing configuration system and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2518857A GB2518857A GB1317452.9A GB201317452A GB2518857A GB 2518857 A GB2518857 A GB 2518857A GB 201317452 A GB201317452 A GB 201317452A GB 2518857 A GB2518857 A GB 2518857A
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- trailer
- vehicle
- control unit
- processor
- data
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08G—TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
- G08G1/00—Traffic control systems for road vehicles
- G08G1/16—Anti-collision systems
- G08G1/167—Driving aids for lane monitoring, lane changing, e.g. blind spot detection
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01C—MEASURING DISTANCES, LEVELS OR BEARINGS; SURVEYING; NAVIGATION; GYROSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS; PHOTOGRAMMETRY OR VIDEOGRAMMETRY
- G01C21/00—Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups G01C1/00 - G01C19/00
- G01C21/26—Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups G01C1/00 - G01C19/00 specially adapted for navigation in a road network
- G01C21/34—Route searching; Route guidance
- G01C21/3407—Route searching; Route guidance specially adapted for specific applications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01C—MEASURING DISTANCES, LEVELS OR BEARINGS; SURVEYING; NAVIGATION; GYROSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS; PHOTOGRAMMETRY OR VIDEOGRAMMETRY
- G01C21/00—Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups G01C1/00 - G01C19/00
- G01C21/26—Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups G01C1/00 - G01C19/00 specially adapted for navigation in a road network
- G01C21/34—Route searching; Route guidance
- G01C21/3453—Special cost functions, i.e. other than distance or default speed limit of road segments
- G01C21/3461—Preferred or disfavoured areas, e.g. dangerous zones, toll or emission zones, intersections, manoeuvre types, segments such as motorways, toll roads, ferries
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
- G01S13/86—Combinations of radar systems with non-radar systems, e.g. sonar, direction finder
- G01S13/867—Combination of radar systems with cameras
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/86—Combinations of sonar systems with lidar systems; Combinations of sonar systems with systems not using wave reflection
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08G—TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
- G08G1/00—Traffic control systems for road vehicles
- G08G1/09—Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions
- G08G1/0962—Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions having an indicator mounted inside the vehicle, e.g. giving voice messages
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
- G01S13/88—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications
- G01S13/93—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
- G01S13/931—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
- G01S2013/9314—Parking operations
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
- G01S13/88—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications
- G01S13/93—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
- G01S13/931—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
- G01S2013/9315—Monitoring blind spots
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/88—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications
- G01S15/93—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
- G01S15/931—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
- G01S2015/932—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles for parking operations
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
- Remote Sensing (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
- Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
- Regulating Braking Force (AREA)
- Control Of Driving Devices And Active Controlling Of Vehicle (AREA)
Abstract
A vehicle navigation device receives a trailer coupling signal via a control unit and selects an appropriate route for the towing vehicle. The control unit may access a storage device on receipt of the signal, to obtain trailer information such as size (width, length, height); mass / weight; number of axles; brake capability (ABS); presence of an anti-snake device or the presence trailer stabilising hitch. The control unit may be used to modify vehicle dynamic parameters based on the trailer data which may by user defined or pre-configured. A video camera may be used to identify at least one parameter of the trailer e.g. trailer dimensions and/or trailer type. A vehicle speed notification threshold is set by a control unit in response to the receipt of a trailer coupling signal. The speed threshold may be accepted or overridden by the driver. The control unit may receive meteorological data, either wirelessly or from onboard sensors, and modify the speed threshold appropriately.
Description
VEHICLE TOWING CONFIGURATION SYSTEM AND METHOD
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a vehicle towing configuration system and method and particularly, but not exclusively, to a control unit for configuring a vehicle for towing; to a vehicle; and to a method of configuring a vehicle for towing. Aspects of the invention relate to a control unit, to a vehicle and to a method.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is known to provide portable navigation devices which can be configured for vehicles towing trailers, for example to restrict routes to main roads and avoid steep gradients.
However, there are certain shortcomings and limitations associated with known devices. For example, the navigation devices are not integrated with the vehicle or trailer, thus requiring manual set-up. Moreover, the navigation devices typically do not take account of trailer parameters, such as type, dimensions and mass.
At least in certain embodiments, the present invention sets out to overcome or ameliorate at least some of the problems associated with known navigation devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Aspects of the present invention relate to a vehicle control unit; a vehicle; and a method of configuring a vehicle.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a control unit for configuring a vehicle for towing, the control unit being configured to: receive a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle; and in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal, automatically reconfigure settings on a navigation system to specify travel routes appropriate for towing a trailer. In use, the control unit may detect when a trailer has been connected to the vehicle for towing and then automatically adjust the navigation system to avoid routes which are not suitable for towing a trailer. For example, the navigation system can be configured to avoid roads which have height or width restrictions. Equally, the navigation system can be configured to avoid bridges having a weight limit or restriction. The navigation system can be a satellite navigation device. The control unit can optionally require a driver confirmation of the status before implementing any changes.
The trailer coupling signal can, for example, be generated when the trailer electrical system is connected to the vehicle electrical system, for example to control operating lights (such as brake, hazard and indicator lights) on the trailer. Alternatively, the trailer coupling signal could be generated by performing image processing of image data received from a camera disposed on the vehicle. Alternatively, the trailer coupling signal could be received from a transmitter on the trailer, such as a TrailAirTM system.
The control unit may comprise a processor. The processor may be configured to modify fuel economy predictions (for example distance to empty) in dependence on the trailer coupling signal. The vehicle fuel economy can be adjusted depending on whether or not a trailer is coupled to the vehicle. The processor can be configured to identify whether the selected destination would require refuelling. The processor can be configured to output a vehicle refuel signal to the navigation system. The navigation system can be configured to identify appropriate refuelling stations, for example along the proposed route or in the vicinity of the predicted refuelling location. The navigation system could be configured only to identify refuelling stations which can accommodate a vehicle and trailer when a trailer is coupled to the vehicle. If no such refuelling stations are available in the vicinity of the predicted refuelling location, the navigation system could output a notification signal recommending that the vehicle is refuelled before it arrives at that location, for example whilst the vehicle is still on a major route.
The processor can be configured to access a storage device to retrieve trailer data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle. The processor can thereby determine information specific to the trailer coupled to the vehicle. The processor can access the storage device upon receipt of said trailer coupling signal. The trailer data can, for example, comprise one or more of the following: trailer type; trailer mass; gross trailer weight rating; nose weight; trailer width; trailer length; trailer height; trailer model; frontal area; Vehicle Identification Number (VIN); Caravan Registration & Identification Scheme (CRiS) number; number of axles; trailer braking capability; the presence/absence of a trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS); the presence/absence of a trailer anti-snake actuator; and the presence/absence of a trailer stabilising hitch. The processor could be configured to receive an identification signal from the trailer for identifying the trailer. The processor could utilise the identification signal to retrieve the relevant trailer data. Rather than access a storage device, the trailer data could be transmitted from a processor disposed on the trailer. The trailer data can be transmitted wirelessly (for example over a Bluetooth® connection) or can be transmitted over a wired connection.
The trailer data can be user-defined or can be predefined. For example, the user can define the trailer parameters, such as trailer type and/or dimensions. Alternatively, the trailer data can be predefined in a database or the like.
The navigation system can be reconfigured based on said trailer data to specify travel routes appropriate for towing the trailer coupled to the vehicle. For example, the navigation system can be reconfigured to avoid travel routes comprising roads which are inappropriate for towing the trailer coupled to the vehicle. The navigation system can utilise the trailer width data and!or the trailer length relating to the trailer coupled to vehicle to exclude routes inappropriate for towing the trailer.
Alternatively, or in addition, the processor can be configured to modify vehicle dynamic parameters based on said trailer data. The vehicle dynamic parameters can, for example, comprise one or more of the following: suspension settings, throttle settings, drivetrain settings and brake settings. The processor can be configured to adjust the engine torque profile in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal. Thus, the engine torque profile can be modified better to match the requirements of towing. The vehicle dynamic parameters can thereby be adjusted based on the retrieved trailer data. For example, the vehicle dynamic parameters can be adjusted based on a mass and/or a gross trailer weight rating of the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
The processor can be configured to receive image data from a video camera and to process said image data to identify one or more parameters relating to the trailer. The processor could determine one or more dimensions of the trailer based on said image data.
Alternatively, or in addition, the processor can determine the trailer type based on the image data. For example, the processor can be configured to distinguish between a bicycle rack and a trailer. The image data could also be analysed to determine whether both a bicycle rack and a trailer are coupled to the vehicle. An image from a centrally positioned camera can be analysed to detect a bicycle rack. An image from one or more offset cameras (for example rearward-facing cameras disposed in the wing mirrors) can be analysed to detect a trailer. The use of one or more offset cameras can enable the trailer to be identified if the image from a centrally positioned camera is obscured, for example by bicycles on a bicycle rack. The processor can be configured to output a status signal to identity the presence/absence of a bicycle rack and/or a trailer.
The processor can be configured to set a speed notification threshold in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal. A driver alert can be generated when the vehicle speed matches or exceeds the speed notification threshold. A speed notification threshold typically corresponds to a statutory speed limit for a given road. It is common for the speed limit to be reduced when a vehicle is towing a trailer. The vehicle control unit described herein can be configured automatically to adjust the speed notification threshold to reflect changes in the legal speed limit when a trailer is connected to the vehicle and/or disconnected from the vehicle. This feature is believed to be patentable independently.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control unit for a vehicle, the control unit being configured to: receive a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle; and select a speed notification threshold in dependence on the trailer coupling signal.
The control unit may comprise a processor. The processor may be configured to output a driver prompt to accept or inhibit said speed notification threshold. This function can be used when the driver does not wish to alter the speed at which the driver alert is output. For example, mounting a bicycle rack to the vehicle typically does not affect the speed limit at which the vehicle can legally travel, but the vehicle control unit may not be able to differentiate the bicycle rack from a trailer. In this scenario, the driver can choose to inhibit changes to the speed notification threshold.
The processor can be configured to receive environmental data, such as meteorological data, and modify said speed notification threshold based on said environmental data. The processor can be configured to receive said meteorological data over a wireless network and/or from one or more on-board sensors.
Upon receipt of said trailer coupling signal, the processor can be configured to access a storage device to retrieve trailer data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle. The trailer data can comprise one or more of the following: trailer type; trailer mass; gross trailer weight rating; nose weight; trailer width; trailer length; trailer height; number of axles; trailer braking capability; the presence/absence of a trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS); the presence/absence of a trailer anti-snake actuator; and the presence/absence of a trailer stabilising hitch. The processor can utilise the trailer data to select the speed notification threshold. For example, the speed notification threshold can be selected based on trailer dimensions and/or trailer weight.
The processor can be configured to adjust vehicle dynamic parameters in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal. The vehicle dynamic parameters can, for example, comprise one or more of the following: suspension settings, throttle settings, drivetrain settings and brake settings. The processor can be configured to adjust the engine torque profile in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal. Alternatively, or in addition, the processor can be configured to adjust vehicle dynamic parameters in dependence on the trailer data retrieved from said storage device. For example, the vehicle dynamic parameters can be adjusted based on a mass and/or a gross trailer weight rating of the trailer coupled to the vehicle. Thus, the engine torque profile can be modified better to match the requirements of towing. It may be possible to improve fuel economy with the knowledge of trailer characteristics.
The control unit described herein can use vehicle data and/or trailer data to inform one or more of the following vehicle systems that the vehicle is in a towing scenario: a vehicle human machine interface (HMI), satellite navigation route planning (incrementally depending on vehicle and trailer parameters) and drive-train set-up.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising a control unit as described herein.
According to a yet further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of configuring a vehicle for towing, the method comprising: receiving a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle for towing; and automatically configuring a navigation system to specify travel routes appropriate for towing a trailer when said trailer coupling signal is received.
According to a still further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of configuring a vehicle for towing, the method comprising: receiving a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle for towing; and automatically modifying a speed notification threshold to a towing speed when said trailer coupling signal is received.
The control unit described herein can comprise one or more electronic processors. The electronic processor(s) can be programmed to perform a set of computational instructions to implement the present invention. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer-readable media having said computational instructions stored thereon. The computational instructions can be defined when the vehicle is manufactured or could be implemented as part of a system update. The methods described herein can be machine-implemented, for example by a programmable apparatus.
Within the scope of this application it is expressly envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
An embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle and a trailer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the vehicle shown in Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT
Figure 1 shows schematically a vehicle 1 and a trailer 3 connected thereto (the vehicle 1 and the trailer 3, when coupled, are said to form a rig'). The vehicle 1 comprises forward steerable wheels Wi, W2 and rear non-steerable wheels W3, W4. The trailer 3 has a single axle 5 arranged between non-steerable trailer wheels TW1 and TW2. The trailer 3 is a caravan in the present embodiment, but the techniques described herein are applicable to other types of trailer.
A tow hitch 7 is provided on the vehicle 1 for mechanical coupling to a trailer tow coupler 9 mounted to the trailer 3. The tow hitch 7 is an upwardly projecting tow ball in the present embodiment. The trailer tow coupler 9 is mounted to a trailer hitch frame 11 disposed at the front of the trailer 3. The hitch frame 11 is an A-frame in the present embodiment. The vehicle 1 also comprises a first electrical connector (for example a trailer socket) 13 for coupling to a second electrical connector 15 disposed on the trailer 3.
As illustrated in Figure 2, the vehicle 1 comprises an electronic control unit 19 coupled to a satellite navigation apparatus 17. The electronic control unit 19 is configured to receive a trailer coupling signal when the first and second electrical connectors 13, 15 are coupled to each other. The coupling of the trailer 3 to the vehicle 1 can, for example, be determined by monitoring the electrical outputs at the first electrical connector 13, for example to determine when a current is drawn by one or more lamps on a trailer board (not shown). If a voltage is placed on the first electrical connector and the resultant current measured, the electronic control unit 19 can determine whether or not a trailer board has been connected. The trailer coupling signal can, for example, be received from a CAN bus (not shown) provided in the vehicle 1. The trailer coupling signal thereby notifies the electronic control unit 19 that the trailer 3 has been connected to the vehicle 1. The satellite navigation apparatus 17 is integrated into the vehicle 1 and receives signals from a network of satellites to determine the location of the vehicle 1.
The electronic control unit 19 is configured automatically to output a towing signal to the satellite navigation apparatus 17 to indicate when the trailer 3 is connected to the vehicle 1.
The satellite navigation apparatus 17 comprises a navigation processor 21 coupled to a memory device 23 containing map data. The navigation processor 21 is configured to access the map data stored on the memory device 23 to generate a travel route for the vehicle 1. The navigation system 17 outputs navigation data to a display screen 25 provided in the vehicle 1. The navigation data can, for example, illustrate the road network in the vicinity of the vehicle 1 and display the travel route generated by the navigation processor 21.
The map data identifies those roads which are unsuitable for towing a trailer, for example due to width and/or height restrictions or steep gradients. The map data may further categorise the roads, for example to identify whether a particular road is accessible to a particular size of trailer. The navigation processor 21 can be configured to operate in a towing mode in which travel routes are generated to avoid any roads identified in said map data as being unsuitable for towing the trailer 3. In the present embodiment, the satellite navigation apparatus 17 is configured to operate in said towing mode in response to receipt of the towing signal from the electronic control unit 19. The vehicle control unit 19 can thereby automatically reconfigure the satellite navigation apparatus 17 to generate travel routes appropriate for the combined vehicle 1 and trailer 3.
The navigation processor 21 can be configured to access additional data from the memory device 23 when the towing signal is received from the electronic control unit 19. This information can be output to the display screen 25 for the user. For example, the navigation processor 21 can identify caravan/camping site locations (and contact details, such as telephone numbers, a contact email address and a postal address); and/or authorised caravan dealers and manufactures for spares or assistance. The navigation processor 21 could also be configured to re-calculate the estimated time of arrival (ETA) based on a revised speed of the vehicle 1 when towing.
The electronic control unit 19 is configured to output a vehicle speed alert when the speed of the vehicle 1 equals a speed notification threshold corresponding to a statutory speed limit.
The electronic control unit 19 can, for example, derive the statutory speed limit for a given road from the map data stored in the memory device 23 associative with the satellite navigation apparatus 17. Moreover, the electronic control unit 19 is configured automatically to adjust the speed notification threshold when the vehicle 1 is connected to the trailer 3.
Specifically, in response to the trailer coupling signal, the electronic control unit 19 is configured automatically to adjust the speed notification threshold. When the trailer 3 is connected to the vehicle 1, the electronic control unit 19 modifies the speed notification threshold in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal over the communication network. If the trailer coupling signal indicates that the vehicle 1 is connected to the trailer 3, the electronic control unit 19 makes an appropriate reduction in the speed notification threshold. Conversely, if the trailer coupling signal indicates that the vehicle 1 is no longer connected to the trailer 3, the electronic control unit 19 makes a corresponding increase in the speed notification threshold. When the speed of the vehicle 1 is substantially equal to the speed notification threshold, a driver alert is output. The driver alert can, for example, be an audio and/or haptic and/or visual output.
The electronic control unit 19 can optionally also be configured to modify the speed notification threshold in dependence on localised parameters, such as meteorological conditions. For example, if the electronic control unit 19 determines that it is raining (for example based on meteorological data obtained over a wireless network, or from on-board rain sensors), it can automatically reduce the speed notification threshold. This function can have particular application in jurisdictions where the statutory speed limit is dependent on driving conditions.
The electronic control unit 19 can also be used in conjunction with one or more proximity sensors 29 to assist with manoeuvring the vehicle 1 and the trailer 3. The proximity sensors 29 could comprise optical, radar or ultrasonic sensors. The proximity sensors 29 could form part of a park assist system or a blind spot indicator. When the electronic control unit 19 determines that the trailer 3 is connected to the vehicle 1, the operating parameters associated with the proximity sensors 29 can be adjusted to account for the dimensions of the trailer 3. For example, the park assist system or blind spot indicator could be re-configured to adjust the proximity settings based on the dimensions of the trailer 3 rather than those of the vehicle 1. The electronic control unit 19 could thereby operate to initiate a warning signal if the proximity sensors 29 detect an obstacle proximal to the trailer 3. This operating mode has particular application if the trailer 3 is wider that the vehicle 1. The dimensions of the trailer 3 could be entered by the user or accessed from trailer data stored on the storage device 3. The electronic control unit 19 could optionally also monitor the vehicle steering angle to identify obstacles in the path of the trailer 3.
It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the embodiment described herein without departing from the present invention. The embodiment described herein relies on the coupling of the first and second connectors 13, 15 to identify when the trailer 3 is connected to the vehicle 1. However, other techniques could be used.
For example, a rearward facing camera 31 on the vehicle 1 could detect the presence/absence of the trailer 3. The rearward facing camera 31 could be disposed in a central position (for example as part of a park-assist apparatus); or could be disposed in an offset position (for example in a wing mirror of the vehicle 1). The rearward facing camera 31 can generate image data. Moreover, the electronic control unit 19 could perform image processing of said image data to determine the trailer type, for example to differentiate between a bicycle rack and a trailer. The electronic control unit 19 could, for example, be configured to identify a target 27 disposed on the front of the trailer 3. The target 27 can be an optical target. The optical target can be configured by a computer application based on user input of trailer parameters. The optical target could then be printed by the user for mounting to the trailer 3. If the trailer 3 is a caravan, the target could be arranged in the front window of the caravan.
The electronic control unit 19 could also be configured to receive data transmitted wirelessly from the trailer 3 (for example over a Bluetooth® network). The data could, for example, indicate that it is connected to the vehicle 1 and/or identify the trailer type and/or configuration and/or loading. A trailer controller, such as the TrailAirTM tyre monitoring and hitching aid, could be provided on the trailer 3.
The present invention is applicable to a range of different types of trailer 3. For example, the trailer 3 can be a caravan, a goods trailer, a flatbed trailer, a van trailer, a livestock trailer and so on. Similarly, the present invention is applicable to a range of different types of vehicles 1. For example, the vehicle 1 can be a motor vehicle, such as an off-road or sports utility vehicle; or a towing engine or tractor for a semi-trailer truck. In the case of a caravan, the electronic control unit 19 can be configured to identify trailer parameters based on a Caravan Registration & Identification Scheme (CRiS) number, for example stored in a database on the memory device 23. The CRiS organisation was set up to build up a database for all Caravans made after 1992, which can include their make, size and mass.
Further aspects of the invention are set out in the following numbered paragraphs: 1. A vehicle control unit for configuring a vehicle for towing, the vehicle control unit comprising a processor configured to: receive a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle; and in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal, automatically reconfigure settings on a navigation apparatus to specify travel routes appropriate for towing a trailer.
2. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 1, wherein, upon receipt of said trailer coupling signal, the processor is configured to access a storage device to retrieve trailer data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
3. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 2, wherein the trailer data comprises one or more of the following: trailer type; trailer mass; gross trailer weight rating; nose weight; trailer width; trailer length; trailer height; number of axles; trailer braking capability; the presence/absence of a trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS); the presence!absence of a trailer anti-snake actuator; and the presence/absence of a trailer stabilising hitch.
4. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 2, wherein the navigation apparatus is reconfigured based on said trailer data to specify travel routes appropriate for towing the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
5. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 3, wherein the navigation apparatus utilises the trailer width data and/or the trailer length data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle to exclude inappropriate travel routes.
6. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 2, wherein the processor is configured to modify vehicle dynamic parameters based on said trailer data.
7. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 2, wherein the trailer data is user-defined or is pre-configured.
8. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 1, wherein the processor is configured to receive image data from a video camera and to process said image data to identify one or more parameters relating to the trailer.
9. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 8, wherein said one or more parameters comprise trailer dimensions and/or trailer type.
10. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 1, wherein the processor is configured to set a speed notification threshold in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal.
11. A vehicle control unit for configuring a vehicle for towing, the vehicle control unit comprising a processor configured to: receive a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle; and to select a speed notification threshold in dependence on the trailer coupling signal.
12. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 11, wherein the processor is configured to output a driver prompt to accept or inhibit said speed notification threshold.
13. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 11, wherein the processor is configured to receive meteorological data and to modify said speed notification threshold based on said meteorological data.
14. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 13, wherein the processor is configured to receive said meteorological data over a wireless network and/or from one or more on-board sensors.
15. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 11, wherein, upon receipt of said trailer coupling signal, the processor is configured to access a storage device to retrieve trailer data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
16. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 15, wherein the trailer data comprises one or more of the following: trailer type; trailer mass; gross trailer weight rating; nose weight; trailer width; trailer length; trailer height; number of axles; trailer braking capability; the presence/absence of a trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS); the presence!absence of a trailer anti-snake actuator; and the presence/absence of a trailer stabilising hitch.
17. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 15, wherein the processor utilises the trailer data to select the speed notification threshold.
18. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 15, wherein the processor is configured to adjust vehicle dynamic parameters in dependence on the trailer data retrieved from said storage device.
19. A vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 1, wherein the processor is configured to adjust vehicle dynamic parameters in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal.
20. A vehicle comprising a vehicle control unit as described in paragraph 1.
21. A method of automatically configuring a vehicle for towing, the method comprising: receiving a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle for towing; and automatically configuring a navigation apparatus to specify travel routes appropriate for towing a trailer when said trailer coupling signal is received.
22. A method of automatically configuring a vehicle for towing, the method comprising: receiving a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle for towing; and automatically modifying a speed notification threshold to a towing speed when said trailer coupling signal is received.
Claims (23)
- CLAIMS: 1. A control unit for configuring a vehicle for towing, the control unit comprising a processor configured to: receive a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle; and in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal, automatically reconfigure settings on a navigation system to specify travel routes appropriate for towing a trailer.
- 2. A control unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein, upon receipt of said trailer coupling signal, the processor is configured to access a storage device to retrieve trailer data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
- 3. A control unit as claimed in claim 2, wherein the trailer data comprises one or more of the following: trailer type; trailer mass; gross trailer weight rating; nose weight; trailer width; trailer length; trailer height; number of axles; trailer braking capability; the presence!absence of a trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS); the presence/absence of a trailer anti-snake actuator; and the presence/absence of a trailer stabilising hitch.
- 4. A control unit as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the navigation system is reconfigured based on said trailer data to specify travel routes appropriate for towing the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
- 5. A control unit as claimed in claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the navigation system utilises the trailer width data and/or the trailer length data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle to exclude inappropriate travel routes.
- 6. A control unit as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the processor is configured to modify vehicle dynamic parameters based on said trailer data.
- 7. A control unit as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the trailer data is user-defined or is pre-configured.
- 8. A control unit as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is configured to receive image data from a video camera and to process said image data to identify one or more parameters relating to the trailer.
- 9. A control unit as claimed in claim 8, wherein said one or more parameters comprise trailer dimensions and/or trailer type.
- 10. A control unit as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is configured to set a speed notification threshold in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal.
- 11. A control unit for a vehicle comprising a processor configured to: receive a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle; and to select a speed notification threshold in dependence on the trailer coupling signal.
- 12. A control unit as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the processor is configured to output a driver prompt to accept or inhibit said speed notification threshold.
- 13. A control unit as claimed in any one of claims 10, 11 or 12, wherein the processor is configured to receive meteorological data and to modify said speed notification threshold based on said meteorological data.
- 14. A control unit as claimed in claim 13, wherein the processor is configured to receive said meteorological data over a wireless network and/or from one or more on-board sensors.
- 15. A control unit as claimed in claim 11, wherein, upon receipt of said trailer coupling signal, the processor is configured to access a storage device to retrieve trailer data relating to the trailer coupled to the vehicle.
- 16. A control unit as claimed in claim 15, wherein the trailer data comprises one or more of the following: trailer type; trailer mass; gross trailer weight rating; nose weight; trailer width; trailer length; trailer height; number of axles; trailer braking capability; the presence!absence of a trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS); the presence/absence of a trailer anti-snake actuator; and the presence/absence of a trailer stabilising hitch.
- 17. A control unit as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the processor utilises the trailer data to select the speed notification threshold.
- 18. A control unit as claimed in any one of claims 15, 16 or 17, wherein the processor is configured to adjust vehicle dynamic parameters in dependence on the trailer data retrieved from said storage device.
- 19. A control unit as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is configured to adjust vehicle dynamic parameters in dependence on receipt of the trailer coupling signal.
- 20. A vehicle comprising a control unit as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.
- 21. A method for a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle for towing; and automatically configuring a navigation system to specify travel routes appropriate for towing a trailer when said trailer coupling signal is received.
- 22. A method for a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a trailer coupling signal indicating that a trailer has been coupled to the vehicle for towing; and automatically modifying a speed notification threshold to a towing speed when said trailer coupling signal is received.
- 23. A vehicle or a control unit substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying Figures.
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| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1317452.9A GB2518857B (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2013-10-02 | Vehicle towing configuration system and method |
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| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1317452.9A GB2518857B (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2013-10-02 | Vehicle towing configuration system and method |
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| GB201317452D0 GB201317452D0 (en) | 2013-11-13 |
| GB2518857A true GB2518857A (en) | 2015-04-08 |
| GB2518857B GB2518857B (en) | 2018-02-14 |
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| GB1317452.9A Active GB2518857B (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2013-10-02 | Vehicle towing configuration system and method |
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| US20240183672A1 (en) * | 2022-12-02 | 2024-06-06 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Lane-aware navigation routing for a vehicle |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2518857B (en) | 2018-02-14 |
| GB201317452D0 (en) | 2013-11-13 |
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