Rotatable driver interface for trailer backup assist

摘要

A trailer backup steering input apparatus is coupled to a vehicle. The trailer backup steering input apparatus comprises a rotatable control element (e.g., a knob) and a rotatable control element movement sensing device. The rotatable control element biased to an at-rest position between opposing rotational ranges of motion. The rotatable control element movement sensing device is coupled to the rotatable control element for sensing movement of the rotatable control element. The rotatable control element movement sensing device outputs a signal generated as a function of an amount of rotation of the rotatable control element with respect to the at-rest position, a rate movement of the rotatable control element, and/or a direction of movement of the rotatable control element with respect to the at-rest position.

主权项

1. A method, comprising:
receiving trailer angle information from a trailer angle detection apparatus of a vehicle having a trailer attached thereto, wherein the trailer angle information is generated as a function of an angular displacement between the vehicle and the trailer; receiving trailer steering information from a trailer backup steering input apparatus of the vehicle, wherein the trailer backup steering input apparatus includes a rotational control input device biased at a zero curvature commanding position and moveable to positions within opposing rotational ranges of motion relative to the zero curvature commanding position and wherein the trailer steering information is derived from at least one of an amount of rotation of the rotational control input device with respect to the zero curvature commanding position, a rate movement of the rotational control input device, and a direction of movement of the rotational control input device with respect to the zero curvature commanding position; and controlling a power steering system of the vehicle using vehicle steering information as the trailer is being backed by the vehicle, wherein the vehicle steering information is generated as a function of the trailer angle information and the trailer steering information.