SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING WHEEL ALIGNMENT GUIDANCE DURING PARKING MANEUVERS

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system (100) for providing wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, the system includes a central control unit (110) operatively coupled to a steering angle sensor, a tire angle monitoring mechanism, an Augmented Reality (AR) display, and a haptic feedback mechanism. The central control unit is configured to receive, from the steering angle sensor, the set of data on the steering angle of the vehicle. Receive, from the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the feedback data on wheel alignment. Process the received data from the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism, control the AR display to provide visual guidance to the driver and provide, through the haptic feedback mechanism, tactile guidance to the driver for making precise steering adjustments during parking maneuvers.

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to advanced parking assistance systems for vehicles, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Current vehicle parking assistance technologies include basic parking sensors, rearview and surround-view camera systems, automatic parking assist systems, steering angle sensors, and head-up displays (HUDs). Basic parking sensors typically use ultrasonic or electromagnetic means to detect obstacles and provide auditory or visual warnings; however, they are primarily focused on obstacle detection and do not offer information on wheel alignment or provide detailed guidance for steering adjustments. Rearview and surround-view camera systems provide visual assistance by displaying live feeds of the surrounding environment with parking guidelines. While they enhance spatial awareness, these systems lack real-time feedback on wheel alignment and do not suggest precise steering adjustments. Automatic parking assist systems, which autonomously control the steering, throttle, and brakes, automate the parking process but are often expensive and limited to higher-end vehicle models. These systems do not offer manual guidance for drivers who prefer or need to park themselves. Steering angle sensors provide data on the steering wheel's position, but they do not offer feedback to the driver regarding wheel alignment during parking and require integration with other systems to deliver alignment guidance. HUDs project critical driving information onto the windshield but are limited to displaying standard driving data such as speed and navigation, without offering real-time wheel alignment data or providing tactile feedback during parking maneuvers.
[0003] These existing technologies are subject to several limitations. Most notably, they lack comprehensive alignment guidance, focusing primarily on obstacle detection or general parking assistance without providing detailed, real-time feedback on wheel alignment. Additionally, few systems incorporate augmented reality (AR) for overlaying alignment data onto the driver's field of view, which could significantly enhance the precision and intuitiveness of parking guidance. Furthermore, current systems generally do not include haptic feedback in the steering wheel, which could greatly improve the driver's ability to make precise steering corrections through physical sensations. Finally, many of these technologies operate in isolation, with limited integration between systems such as parking sensors and steering angle sensors, reducing their overall effectiveness in providing comprehensive parking assistance.
[0004] Existing parking assistance technologies exhibit several limitations, which include a lack of real-time wheel alignment data during parking maneuvers, which is critical for ensuring proper vehicle positioning. Furthermore, these systems do not provide visual alignment guidance to assist drivers in adjusting the wheel position accurately, often leading to improper alignment. Additionally, current systems do not incorporate haptic feedback for steering adjustments, thereby limiting the driver's ability to make precise corrections based on tactile sensations. Moreover, many of these systems operate independently, such as parking sensors, cameras, and steering angle sensors, which results in fragmented functionality and reduces the overall effectiveness of parking assistance solutions.
[0005] Therefore, it is desired to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and develop an integrated front wheel alignment maintaining an alert system that combines visual, tactile, and augmented reality feedback to enhance parking precision and vehicle safety.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0006] An object of the present disclosure relates, in general, to advanced parking assistance systems for vehicles, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that integrates a steering angle sensor and a tire angle monitoring mechanism to deliver precise, real-time wheel alignment data.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that utilizes an Augmented Reality (AR) display to overlay real-time alignment data onto a live feed from front-facing cameras for intuitive visual guidance.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that incorporates haptic feedback in the steering wheel, offering physical sensations to guide the driver in fine-tuning wheel alignment.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that seamlessly integrates steering angle sensors, tire angle monitoring, AR display, and haptic feedback into a unified system, enhancing parking precision and ease of use.
[0011] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is cost-effective and suitable for implementation across a wide range of vehicle models, making advanced parking assistance accessible to more drivers.

SUMMARY
[0012] The present disclosure relates in general, to advanced parking assistance systems for vehicles, and more specifically, relates to system and method for real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawback, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing system and solution, by providing a front wheel alignment maintaining alert system designed to assist drivers in achieving optimal wheel alignment while parking, comprising a steering angle sensor and a tire angle monitoring mechanism that collectively provide real-time data on wheel alignment; an advanced Augmented Reality (AR) display integrated into the vehicle's instrument cluster, configured to utilize a live feed from front-facing cameras to overlay visual guidance indicating the exact position of the wheels and the necessary steering adjustments for maintaining proper alignment; and a haptic feedback mechanism integrated into the steering wheel, configured to provide physical sensations, such as vibrations or resistance, to guide the driver in making precise adjustments, thereby ensuring that drivers receive comprehensive and intuitive instructions to maintain the wheels straight, enhancing parking accuracy and vehicle safety.
[0013] The system for providing wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers is disclosed. The system includes a steering angle sensor configured to measure the angle of the steering wheel of a vehicle to provide a set of data on the steering angle. A tire angle monitoring mechanism operatively coupled to each front wheel of the vehicle, configured to measure the orientation of the front wheels relative to the vehicle body to provide continuous feedback data on wheel alignment. An Augmented Reality (AR) display integrated into the vehicle, configured to overlay real-time wheel alignment data onto a live feed captured by one or more cameras associated with the vehicle, wherein the AR display provides graphical indicators representing the current wheel alignment and suggesting necessary adjustments for optimal alignment; a haptic feedback mechanism integrated into the steering wheel, configured to generate tactile sensations to guide a driver in making precise steering adjustments and a central control unit operatively coupled to the steering angle sensor, the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the AR display, and the haptic feedback mechanism, wherein the central control unit is configured to receive, from the steering angle sensor, the set of data of the steering angle of the vehicle; receive, from the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the feedback data on wheel alignment; process the received data from the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism; control the AR display to provide visual guidance to the driver; and provide, through the haptic feedback mechanism, tactile guidance to the driver for making precise steering adjustments during parking maneuvers.
[0014] The apparatus includes a predictive data processing unit accommodated in a steering angle sensor and a tire angle monitoring mechanism, configured to calculate and adjust tire angle based on the steering angle, vehicle speed, and road surface conditions, thereby enabling real-time adjustments on uneven surfaces or during high-speed maneuvers. The apparatus further comprises an augmented reality (AR)-based hazard detection unit housed within an AR display, providing live feedback regarding potential road hazards, and dynamically adjusting steering or braking based on real-time data to enhance navigational safety. Additionally, a dynamic haptic feedback unit is incorporated into the haptic feedback mechanism, linked to real-time road condition data, and delivers tactile information to the driver based on road surface texture, weather conditions, and speed, thereby increasing the driver's response to varying driving conditions. An energy-efficient sensor management unit is also included, integrated into the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism, wherein the sensor management unit activates sensors based on driving and environmental conditions, optimizing power consumption for efficient operation.
[0015] The steering angle sensor is configured to monitor the position of the steering wheel and send updated alignment data to the central control unit. The tire angle monitoring mechanism comprises a set of sensors positioned on each front wheel to provide individual feedback on wheel alignment. The AR display comprises user-configurable settings that allow the driver to customize visual cues based on personal preference. The AR display provides additional information pertaining to obstacle detection and proximity alerts, alongside wheel alignment data. The haptic feedback mechanism comprises actuators embedded in the steering wheel to generate vibrations or resistance to prompt the driver to correct the wheel alignment. The haptic feedback mechanism is configured to provide varying levels of tactile sensations based on the degree of misalignment detected. The haptic feedback mechanism is synchronized with the AR display to provide simultaneous visual and tactile cues for enhanced driver awareness.
[0016] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.
[0018] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary view of a system for providing real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 1C illustrates functional components of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for providing real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature "may", "can", "could", or "might" be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0022] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0023] The present disclosure relates, in general, to advanced parking assistance systems for vehicles, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers.
[0024] The system for providing wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers is disclosed. The system includes a steering angle sensor configured to measure the angle of the steering wheel of a vehicle to provide a set of data on the steering angle. A tire angle monitoring mechanism operatively coupled to each front wheel of the vehicle, configured to measure the orientation of the front wheels relative to the vehicle body to provide continuous feedback data on wheel alignment. An Augmented Reality (AR) display integrated into the vehicle, configured to overlay real-time wheel alignment data onto a live feed captured by one or more cameras associated with the vehicle, where the AR display provides graphical indicators representing the current wheel alignment and suggesting necessary adjustments for optimal alignment; a haptic feedback mechanism integrated into the steering wheel, configured to generate tactile sensations to guide a driver in making precise steering adjustments and a central control unit operatively coupled to the steering angle sensor, the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the AR display, and the haptic feedback mechanism, wherein the central control unit is configured to receive, from the steering angle sensor, the set of data of the steering angle of the vehicle; receive, from the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the feedback data on wheel alignment; process the received data from the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism; control the AR display to provide visual guidance to the driver; and provide, through the haptic feedback mechanism, tactile guidance to the driver for making precise steering adjustments during parking maneuvers.
[0025] The system can include a predictive data processing unit that is configured to calculate and adjust tire angle based on the steering angle, vehicle speed, and road surface conditions, enabling real-time adjustments on uneven surfaces or during high-speed maneuvers. An augmented reality (AR) based hazard detection unit provides live feedback regarding potential road hazards and dynamically adjusts steering or braking based on real-time data to enhance navigational safety. A dynamic haptic feedback unit is linked to real-time road condition data and delivers tactile information to the driver based on road surface texture, weather conditions, and speed, to increase driver response to varying driving conditions and an energy-efficient sensor management unit activates sensors when necessary based on driving and environmental conditions, optimizing power consumption.
[0026] The steering angle sensor is configured to monitor the position of the steering wheel and send updated alignment data to the central control unit. The tire angle monitoring mechanism comprises a set of sensors positioned on each front wheel to provide individual feedback on wheel alignment. The AR display comprises user-configurable settings that allow the driver to customize visual cues based on personal preference. The AR display provides additional information pertaining to obstacle detection and proximity alerts, alongside wheel alignment data. The haptic feedback mechanism comprises actuators embedded in the steering wheel to generate vibrations or resistance to prompt the driver to correct the wheel alignment. The haptic feedback mechanism is configured to provide varying levels of tactile sensations based on the degree of misalignment detected. The haptic feedback mechanism is synchronized with the AR display to provide simultaneous visual and tactile cues for enhanced driver awareness. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] The advantages achieved by the system of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. Existing parking assistance systems suffer from a lack of real-time wheel alignment data, which is crucial for ensuring accurate parking. The present invention addresses this issue by integrating a steering angle sensor and a tire angle monitoring mechanism to deliver precise, real-time data on wheel alignment, enabling drivers to park with greater accuracy. Furthermore, traditional systems often lack visual alignment guidance, leaving drivers without the necessary visual cues for wheel adjustments during parking. The invention overcomes this limitation by incorporating an Augmented Reality (AR) display within the vehicle's instrument cluster, which overlays real-time alignment data onto a live feed from front-facing cameras, providing intuitive visual guidance for the driver to accurately align the wheels. Additionally, conventional systems do not offer haptic feedback to assist drivers in making precise steering adjustments. The invention solves this by embedding sensors that provide haptic feedback through the steering wheel, offering physical sensations such as vibrations or resistance to guide the driver in fine-tuning wheel alignment.
[0028] Moreover, many existing parking technologies operate in isolation, reducing their overall effectiveness due to a lack of integration. This invention combines the steering angle sensor, a tire angle monitoring mechanism, an AR display, and haptic feedback into a unified system that works cohesively to offer comprehensive alignment guidance during parking maneuvers. The system provides enhanced real-time feedback through the integration of steering angle sensors and a tire angle monitoring mechanisms, delivering continuous real-time data for precise parking adjustments. The AR display delivers intuitive visual guidance by overlaying alignment data on live camera feeds in the driver's view, assisting the driver in making informed wheel adjustments. The invention also introduces tactile feedback through the steering wheel, enabling the driver to rely on physical sensations to achieve accurate wheel alignment without solely depending on visual cues. The integration of various components into a cohesive system ensures seamless interaction between sensors and feedback mechanisms, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the parking assistance.
[0029] Additionally, this invention offers an advanced and cost-effective solution that can be implemented across a broader range of vehicle models, providing sophisticated parking assistance without the high costs associated with fully automatic parking systems. The invention thus addresses key limitations of current parking technologies by providing real-time alignment data, intuitive visual and tactile feedback, and seamless system integration, resulting in a more accurate, efficient, and user-friendly parking experience.
[0030] The description of terms and features related to the present disclosure shall be clear from the embodiments that are illustrated and described; however, the invention is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents of the embodiments are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the invention can include other embodiments that are within the scope of the claims but are not described in detail with respect to the following description.
[0031] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary view of a system for providing real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, a system 100 for providing real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers is disclosed. The system 100 includes a steering angle sensor 102, a tire angle monitoring mechanism 104, an Augmented Reality (AR) display 106, a haptic feedback mechanism 108 integrated into the steering wheel, and a central control unit 110. These components work together to offer a comprehensive and intuitive parking assistance solution.
[0033] The steering angle sensor 102 is configured to measure the angle of the steering wheel. The sensor 102 detects the rotational position of the steering wheel relative to the vehicle's chassis and sends real-time data on the steering angle to the central control unit 110. By continuously monitoring the steering wheel's position, this component plays a key role in providing accurate alignment data.
[0034] The tire angle monitoring mechanism 104 comprises sensors attached to the front wheels of the vehicle. These sensors measure the angle of the wheels relative to the vehicle body, providing continuous feedback on wheel alignment. The data from the tire angle monitoring mechanism 104 is also transmitted to the central control unit 110 to assist in determining the precise alignment of the vehicle's front wheels.
[0035] The AR display 106 is integrated into the vehicle's instrument cluster and provides visual guidance to the driver by overlaying real-time alignment data onto a live feed from front-facing cameras. This system captures the parking environment through the cameras and displays graphical indicators, such as the current wheel position and recommended adjustments, on the AR display 106, giving the driver intuitive visual cues to optimize wheel alignment.
[0036] Haptic feedback mechanism 108 is provided in the steering wheel through embedded actuators. These actuators generate tactile sensations such as vibrations or resistance to guide the driver in making precise steering adjustments. The haptic feedback is synchronized with the visual guidance from the AR display, ensuring that the driver receives both visual and tactile cues for optimal alignment.
[0037] The central control unit 110 is responsible for processing data from the steering angle sensor 102 and the tire angle monitoring mechanism 104. It coordinates the feedback mechanisms of the AR display and haptic feedback, ensuring that the driver receives real-time, accurate information about wheel alignment during parking maneuvers. The central control unit 110 acts as the core of the system, managing the flow of information between the sensors and the feedback components to deliver a seamless parking assistance experience. The term maneuvers refers to specific movements or actions taken to achieve a particular goal, often requiring skillful or careful handling. In the context of driving and parking, maneuvers encompass various actions that drivers perform to navigate their vehicles safely and effectively. These include turning at intersections, changing lanes on the road, and executing different types of parking such as parallel, perpendicular, or angle parking. Additionally, maneuvers involve reversing the vehicle while monitoring for obstacles, making U-turns to change direction, and navigating around pedestrians or other vehicles. Overall, driving maneuvers involve a range of movements that require attention, skill, and precise control of the vehicle to ensure safety and effective navigation.
[0038] In the implementation of an embodiment, the system 100 is utilized during a parallel parking scenario. Initially, the driver activates the parking assist system, upon which the steering angle sensor 102 and a tire angle monitoring mechanism 104 begin transmitting real-time data to the central control unit 110. Simultaneously, the front-facing cameras capture the parking environment. As the driver approaches the parking spot, the Augmented Reality (AR) display presents a live feed of the area ahead, overlaid with indicators representing the current alignment of the front wheels. The AR display 106 provides visual cues, such as arrows or lines, showing where the wheels should be positioned for optimal alignment.
[0039] As the driver begins turning the steering wheel to enter the parking spot, the system 100 evaluates the alignment of the wheels. If the wheels are not properly aligned, the haptic feedback mechanism108 activates, generating vibrations or resistance in the steering wheel. For example, if the wheels need to be turned further to the right, the left side of the steering wheel may vibrate, prompting the driver to make the necessary adjustment. Throughout the parking maneuver, the system 100 continuously monitors the wheel alignment, and the AR display 106 updates in real-time, showing any deviations from the desired path and recommending corrective adjustments. The haptic feedback mechanism108 provides continuous tactile prompts, allowing the driver to make fine-tuned adjustments without diverting attention from the visual display. Upon successful completion of the parking maneuver, the system provides visual confirmation on the AR display 106, and the haptic feedback ceases, indicating that the vehicle is correctly aligned and parked. The driver can then deactivate the system and proceed with their journey.
[0040] FIG. 1C illustrates functional components of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0041] The system 100 includes a predictive data processing unit 112 accommodated in the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the predictive data processing unit 112 is configured to calculate and adjust the tire angle based on steering angle, vehicle speed, and road surface conditions. The system 100 anticipates necessary adjustments in real-time, optimizing both steering control and tire wear, particularly on uneven surfaces or during high-speed maneuvers. This predictive feature enhances vehicle safety and performance, distinguishing it from prior art solutions.
[0042] Furthermore, the present disclosure integrates an augmented reality (AR) based hazard detection unit 114 accommodated in the Augmented Reality (AR) display for real-time hazard detection and obstacle avoidance. The AR-based hazard detection unit 114 provides live feedback to drivers regarding potential road hazards, such as potholes or obstacles, and dynamically adjusts steering or braking as necessary. This real-time feedback mechanism, combined with AR, significantly enhances navigational safety, representing a novel feature over existing systems.
[0043] Additionally, the present disclosure incorporates a dynamic haptic feedback unit 116 accommodated in the haptic feedback mechanism 108 linked to real-time road condition data. The system delivers tactile information to the driver based on road surface texture, weather conditions, and speed. The integration of this dynamic feedback unit improves driver response to road conditions, offering tangible cues to enhance driving safety, particularly in challenging environments.
[0044] The present disclosure provides an energy-efficient sensor management unit 118 accommodated in the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism, energy-efficient sensor management unit 118 that activates sensors, such as tire angle and steering sensors, only when necessary. The activation is determined based on driving scenarios and environmental conditions, ensuring optimized power consumption and extending sensor life, particularly in electric and hybrid vehicles. This energy-efficient approach provides a novel advancement over prior art technologies.
[0045] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides a system that offers several benefits, including precision in wheel alignment during parking through the combination of real-time data, Augmented Reality (AR) visual guidance, and haptic feedback. This precise alignment is achieved by integrating various sensors and feedback mechanisms. The system is easy to use, offering intuitive, multi-sensory guidance that simplifies parking and reduces the risk of misalignment. Furthermore, the system enhances safety by promoting proper wheel alignment, thereby reducing wear on the tires and steering mechanism and improving overall vehicle safety and longevity. The system is broadly accessible and can be implemented in a wide range of vehicle models, making advanced parking assistance available to more drivers.
[0046] The system components include hardware integration, where sensors and actuators are installed at key points, such as the steering wheel, front wheels, and instrument cluster. The central control unit is connected to the vehicle's existing electronic systems. Additionally, the system incorporates custom software that processes sensor data, generates AR overlays, and controls haptic feedback. This software is designed to interface seamlessly with the vehicle's operating system to ensure efficient operation. The user interface is designed with simplicity and clarity in mind, featuring a user-friendly AR display with clear graphics and minimal distractions. The haptic feedback is finely tuned to provide precise tactile sensations without being intrusive. The present disclosure provides a sophisticated yet user-friendly solution to the common issue of wheel misalignment during parking, leveraging advanced technologies to deliver comprehensive assistance to drivers.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for providing real-time wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0048] The method 200 for providing wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers is disclosed. At block 202, measuring, using a steering angle sensor, an angle of the steering wheel of a vehicle to generate a set of data on the steering angle. At block 204, measuring, using a tire angle monitoring mechanism, the orientation of the front wheels of the vehicle relative to the vehicle body to generate continuous feedback data on wheel alignment. At block 206, capturing, using one or more cameras associated with the vehicle, a live feed of the surroundings of the vehicle. At block 208, overlaying, using an Augmented Reality (AR) display integrated into the vehicle, real-time wheel alignment data onto the live feed, wherein the AR display provides graphical indicators representing the current wheel alignment and suggesting necessary adjustments for optimal alignment.
[0049] At block 210, generating, using a haptic feedback mechanism integrated into the steering wheel, a tactile sensation to guide the driver in making precise steering adjustments. At block 212, processing the data received from the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism by a central control unit. At block 214, providing visual guidance to the driver through the AR display for optimal wheel alignment and at block 216, providing tactile guidance to the driver through the haptic feedback mechanism for making precise steering adjustments during parking maneuvers.
[0050] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the system 100 of the disclosure may be provided using some or all of the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.



ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0051] The present disclosure provides a system that integrates a steering angle sensor and a tire angle monitoring mechanism to deliver precise, real-time wheel alignment data.
[0052] The present disclosure provides a system that utilizes an Augmented Reality (AR) display to overlay real-time alignment data onto a live feed from front-facing cameras for intuitive visual guidance.
[0053] The present disclosure provides a system that incorporates haptic feedback in the steering wheel, offering physical sensations to guide the driver in fine-tuning wheel alignment.
[0054] The present disclosure provides a system that seamlessly integrates steering angle sensors, tire angle monitoring, AR display, and haptic feedback into a unified system, enhancing parking precision and ease of use.
[0055] The present disclosure provides a system that is cost-effective and suitable for implementation across a wide range of vehicle models, making advanced parking assistance accessible to more drivers.

, Claims:1. A system (100) for providing wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, the system comprising:
a steering angle sensor (102) configured to measure the angle of steering wheel of a vehicle to provide a set of data on steering angle;
a tire angle monitoring mechanism (104) operatively coupled to each front wheel of the vehicle, configured to measure orientation of the steering wheel relative to a vehicle body to provide continuous feedback data on wheel alignment;
an Augmented Reality (AR) display (106) integrated into the vehicle, configured to overlay real-time wheel alignment data onto a live feed, the live feed being captured by one or more cameras associated with the vehicle, the AR display configured to provide graphical indicators representing current wheel alignment and suggesting necessary adjustments for optimal alignment;
a haptic feedback mechanism (108) integrated into the steering wheel, configured to generate tactile sensations to guide a driver in making precise steering adjustments; and
a central control unit (110) operatively coupled to the steering angle sensor, the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the Augmented Reality (AR) display and the haptic feedback mechanism, the central control unit configured to:
receive, from the steering angle sensor, the set of data on the steering angle of the vehicle;
receive, from the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the feedback data on wheel alignment;
process the received data from the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism;
control the AR display to provide visual guidance to the driver; and
provide, through the haptic feedback mechanism, tactile guidance to the driver for making precise steering adjustments during parking maneuvers.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system comprises:
a predictive data processing unit (112) accommodated in the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism, configured to calculate and adjust tire angle based on the steering angle, vehicle speed, and road surface conditions, enabling real-time adjustments on uneven surfaces or during high-speed maneuvers;
an augmented reality (AR) based hazard detection unit (114) accommodated in the Augmented Reality (AR) display, provides live feedback regarding potential road hazards and dynamically adjusts steering or braking based on real-time data to enhance navigational safety;
a dynamic haptic feedback unit (116) accommodated in the haptic feedback mechanism (108), the dynamic haptic feedback unit is linked to real-time road condition data and delivers tactile information to the driver based on road surface texture, weather conditions, and speed, to increase driver response to varying driving conditions; and
an energy-efficient sensor management unit (118) accommodated in the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism, the energy-efficient sensor management unit (118) activates sensors when necessary based on driving and environmental conditions, optimizing power consumption.

3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the steering angle sensor (102) is configured to monitor the position of the steering wheel and send updated alignment data to the central control unit.

4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tire angle monitoring mechanism (104) comprises a set of sensors positioned on each front wheel to provide individual feedback on wheel alignment.

5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the AR display (106) comprises user-configurable settings that allow the driver to customize visual cues based on personal preference.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the AR display (106) provides additional information pertaining to obstacle detection and proximity alerts, alongside wheel alignment data.

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback mechanism (108) comprises actuators embedded in the steering wheel to generate vibrations or resistance to prompt the driver to correct the wheel alignment.

8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback mechanism (108) is configured to provide varying levels of tactile sensations based on the degree of misalignment detected.

9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback mechanism (108) is synchronized with the AR display to provide simultaneous visual and tactile cues for enhanced driver awareness.

10. A method (200) for providing wheel alignment guidance during parking maneuvers, the method comprising:
measuring (202), using a steering angle sensor, an angle of the steering wheel of a vehicle to generate a set of data on the steering angle;
measuring (204), using a tire angle monitoring mechanism, orientation of the front wheels of the vehicle relative to a vehicle body to generate continuous feedback data on wheel alignment;
capturing (206), using one or more cameras associated with the vehicle, a live feed of the surroundings of the vehicle;
overlaying (208), using an Augmented Reality (AR) display integrated into the vehicle, real-time wheel alignment data onto the live feed, the AR display providing graphical indicators representing current wheel alignment and suggesting necessary adjustments for optimal alignment;
generating (210), using a haptic feedback mechanism integrated into the steering wheel, tactile sensation to a driver in making precise steering adjustments; and
processing (212), by the central control unit, data received from the steering angle sensor and the tire angle monitoring mechanism;
providing (214), through the AR display, visual guidance to the driver for optimal wheel alignment; and
providing (216), through the haptic feedback mechanism, tactile guidance to the driver for making precise steering adjustments during parking maneuvers.

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