System and methods for detection and response to interference between trailer coupler and hitch ball

A method for controlling a vehicle system comprising:

• receiving detection signals from a vehicle hitch sensor identifying an impact force applied to a vehicle hitch, wherein the impact force is from a contact of a vehicle maneuvering into a trailer;
• detecting a longitudinal force applied along a length of the hitch and a load force applied along a height of the hitch based on the detection signals;
• approximating a force direction as a combination of component parts of the longitudinal force and the load force based on the detection signals;
• identifying a height adjustment of a coupler of the trailer based on the force direction;
• and
• in response to the force direction, generating instructions for adjusting a height of the coupler.

A system for a vehicle, comprising:

• a hitch mounted on a vehicle;
• an imaging system including one or more cameras mounted on a vehicle;
• a force sensor in connection with the hitch;
• and
• a controller comprising a processor that:
• identifies a coupler position of a coupler based on image data received from the imaging system;
• controls motion of the vehicle aligning the hitch with the coupler position;
• detects a force applied to the hitch via the force sensor, wherein the force results from the motion of the vehicle causing an impact with the coupler;
• in response to the force, approximates a force direction of an interference between the coupler of a trailer and the hitch;
• and
• generates instructions comprising a direction for a height adjustment of the coupler for connection to the hitch based on the force direction.