Patent ID: 9168951
Filing Date: 2015-10-27
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. A method for assisting a driver in a reverse drive maneuver of a trailer, the method comprising: receiving, by a controller device, an operator-controlled vehicle steering angle for steering a vehicle during the reverse drive maneuver; receiving, by the controller device, a hitch angle representing an angle between the vehicle and the trailer at a hitch wherein the trailer is coupled to the vehicle at the hitch, the vehicle having a front axle with steerable front wheels and a rear axle with non-steerable rear wheels, and the trailer having a rear axle with steerable rear wheels and a front axle with non-steerable front wheels; determining a directional jackknife warning condition based on the received vehicle steering angle, the directional jackknife warning condition representing a condition of the hitch angle at which, if the vehicle steering angle is maintained, no allowable trailer steering angle can be determined that will reduce the hitch angle between the vehicle and the trailer if the vehicle drives in reverse; and responsive to the hitch angle satisfying the directional jackknife warning condition, notifying the driver.