Patent ID: 8380390
Filing Date: 2013-02-19
Classification: B60D,B60T

Abstract:
1. A method of determining a plurality of characteristics of a trailer being towed by a vehicle that includes an electronic stability control system, the method comprising: sensing a plurality of vehicle conditions using sensors connected to the electronic stability control system; measuring a first force at a first junction of a vehicle trailer hitch with an intelligent fastener; measuring a second force at the first junction of the vehicle trailer hitch, wherein the first and second forces are in a longitudinal direction with respect to the vehicle; determining, by the electronic stability control system, a first characteristic of the trailer based on the first force and the second force, the first characteristic being one of a trailer center of gravity, a wind-resistance-geometric profile of the trailer, and a resistive force experienced by the trailer's tires; and compensating, by the electronic stability control system, the motion of the vehicle based on the first characteristic of the trailer and the plurality of vehicle conditions.