Hitch angle sensor assembly
US9513103B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 2, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 6, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 21, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60W2520/22
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In one embodiment, a hitch angle sensor assembly includes a spacer fixed between a hitch ball and a mounting surface on a vehicle. An element is rotatably coupled with the spacer about a vertical axis defined by the hitch ball, and connecting member secures the element to a trailer. A hall sensor is coupled with the spacer and senses a magnetic portion of the element to determine a hitch angle between the vehicle and trailer. This and other embodiments of the hitch angle sensor assembly may be used independently or in combination with other hitch angle sensors or systems to estimate the hitch angle between the vehicle and trailer, which may be advantageously used for operation of the vehicle with a trailer backup assist system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.