| 摘要 |
<p>An electronic coupling control system for a vehicle trailer hitch assembly having a hitch plate (26) in which a throat (60) is defined for receiving a trailer kingpin (70) and having a locking mechanism (28) for locking the kingpin (70) in the hitch throat (60). The electronic coupling control system includes a trailer proximity sensor (32) for sensing when a trailer is in proximity to the hitch assembly, a kingpin sensor (34) for sensing the presence of the kingpin (70) in the hitch throat (60), a lock sensor (36) for sensing when said locking mechanism (28) is in a locked and secured position, and indicator means (50) located in the vehicle for providing hitch coupling status information to an operator of the vehicle. The indicator means (50) is coupled to the trailer proximity, kingpin, and lock sensors (32, 34, 36) for informing the operator when a trailer is in proximity to the hitch assembly, when the kingpin (70) is positioned in the hitch throat (60), and when the locking mechanism (28) is in a locked position. The indicator means (50) may include an indicator light (212) and control circuit (210). The electronic coupling control system may further include an interface for coupling to a control input of an electrical control system of the vehicle, wherein the control circuit (210) is coupled to the interface for generating and providing a control signal to the vehicle electrical control system when the locking mechanism (28) is not in a locked position such that a vehicle function. such as the vehicle's brakes are operated. The electronic coupling control system may also perform a self-diagnostic routine to insure proper operation of its components when the vehicle ignition is turned ON. <IMAGE></p> |
