Self-driving vehicle including a foldable accelerator pedal assembly and a foldable brake pedal assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to an autonomous vehicle including a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device. The foldable accelerator pedal device is an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, or a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device. The foldable brake pedal device is an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, or a pressure-operated brake pedal device. The foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device are installed in a space below a driver's seat. The space below the driver's seat is configured to accommodate a combination of any one of the foldable accelerator pedal devices and any one of the foldable brake pedal devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an autonomous driving vehicle, comprising a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device. Background Art

[0002] The vehicle is provided with an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal that are operated by the driver's feet.

[0003] Accelerator and brake pedals are classified into two types based on their mounting structure: suspended from the instrument panel and accordion-type mounted on the floor panel. There are also pressure-operated types that generate acceleration and braking signals in response to the pressure applied by the driver's foot on the pads.

[0004] Suspended pedals are configured such that a pedal housing is fixed to an instrument panel constituting a vehicle body, and a pedal arm is suspended from the pedal housing. Organ pedals are configured such that a pedal housing is fixed to a floor panel constituting a vehicle body, and a driver steps on a pad in the same manner as a musical organ pedal.

[0005] An autonomous vehicle is an intelligent vehicle to which autonomous driving technology is applied, so that the vehicle can automatically travel to a destination without the driver directly operating a handle, an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal, etc. Such autonomous vehicles have been actively developed recently.

[0006] Typically, when autonomous driving is achieved, a manual driving mode and an autonomous driving mode can be selected. In the manual driving mode, the driver manually drives the vehicle, and in the autonomous driving mode, the vehicle can automatically drive to the destination without the driver manually driving the vehicle.

[0007] In autonomous driving mode, the driver can rest comfortably with their legs stretched out. However, if the pedals (accelerator and brake pedals) remain exposed in the interior space under the driver's seat in autonomous driving mode, the pedals may hinder the driver's rest.

[0008] In addition, in an automatic driving situation where the driver does not operate the vehicle's pedals (accelerator pedal and brake pedal), when the driver operates the pedals, the vehicle's controller determines that the driver wants to terminate the automatic driving mode and drive the vehicle manually, and performs control to terminate the automatic driving mode.

[0009] However, since the vehicle's pedals are installed to be exposed in the space below the driver's seat, the driver may accidentally operate the pedals during autonomous driving (pedal misoperation), which may lead to an accident depending on road conditions, the distance between vehicles, etc.

[0010] The information disclosed in the background section of the present invention is only intended to deepen the understanding of the general background technology of the present invention, and should not be regarded as an admission or any form of suggestion that the information constitutes relevant technology already known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention relates to an autonomous vehicle including a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device. A specific embodiment relates to an autonomous vehicle in which any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device are selectively combined into a group and installed according to a driver's preference.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention solves the need for developing a new pedal device, which is used to expose the pedals to the interior space of the vehicle, thereby enabling the driver to operate the pedals in manual driving mode (the driver manually drives the vehicle), and prevent the pedals from being exposed so that the driver cannot operate the pedals in automatic driving mode, thereby providing the driver with a comfortable rest, preventing misoperation of the pedals, and thus ensuring safety.

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention can solve the aforementioned problems. For example, the embodiments provide an autonomous driving vehicle in which any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device is selectively combined with any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device into a set and installed according to the driver's preference, thereby improving the marketability of the product.

[0014] According to one embodiment, an autonomous driving vehicle includes a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device, wherein the foldable accelerator pedal device includes any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, or a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device. The foldable brake pedal device includes any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device; and any one of the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device is selectively combined with any one of the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, the suspended foldable brake pedal device, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device and installed in the space below the driver's seat.

[0015] Each of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device may include a pedal housing having a predetermined shape to define its appearance; and the pedal housing of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the pedal housing of the foldable brake pedal device may be installed to surface-contact each other.

[0016] The foldable accelerator pedal device can be installed so that one side surface thereof is in close contact with a side surface of a console in a space below a driver's seat; and the foldable brake pedal device can be installed so that one side surface thereof is in close contact with an opposite side surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device.

[0017] The accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, the suspension-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device can be formed to have the same width in the left-right direction. The accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, the suspension-type foldable brake pedal device, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device can be formed to have the same width in the left-right direction. Any one of the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, the suspension-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and any one of the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, the suspension-type foldable brake pedal device, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device can be selectively combined and can be installed in the space under the driver's seat so that the top surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the top surface of the foldable brake pedal device match each other without any height difference in the upper and lower directions.

[0018] The accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device and the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0019] The suspended foldable accelerator pedal device and the suspended foldable brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0020] The pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and the pressure-operated brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0021] The accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device and the suspended-type foldable brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0022] The accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device and the pressure-operated brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0023] The suspended foldable accelerator pedal device and the accordion foldable brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0024] The suspended foldable accelerator pedal device and the pressure-operated brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0025] The pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat.

[0026] The pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and the suspended foldable brake pedal device may be combined into a set and may be installed in a space below a driver's seat. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood through the following detailed description presented in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an accordion-type foldable step device for an autonomous vehicle according to the present invention;

[0029] Figures 2 to 4 is a view showing a hidden state in which the pedal pad is inserted into the pedal housing;

[0030] Figures 5 to 8 is a view showing a state in which the pedal pad protrudes from the pedal housing;

[0031] Figure 9 is a view showing a configuration in which a accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device and a accordion-type foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0032] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a suspended foldable pedal device for an autonomous vehicle according to the present invention;

[0033] Figures 11 to 13 It shows Figure 10 A perspective view, a rear view and a side view of a coupled state and a hidden state of the pedal pad inserted into the pedal housing;

[0034] Figures 14 to 17 are a perspective view and a side view showing a state where the pedal pad protrudes from the pedal housing;

[0035] Figure 18is a view showing a configuration in which a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device and a suspended foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0036] Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure-operated pedal device for an autonomous vehicle according to the present invention;

[0037] Figure 20 It shows Figure 19 A rear perspective view of the connected state;

[0038] Figure 21 It shows Figure 19 a rear perspective view of the pedal pad shown;

[0039] Figure 22 is a view showing a configuration in which a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and a pressure-operated brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0040] Figure 23A is a view showing the shape of a foldable accelerator pedal device according to the present invention;

[0041] Figure 23B is a view showing the shape of a foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention;

[0042] Figure 24 is a view showing the arrangement of a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention;

[0043] Figure 25 is a view showing a configuration in which an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device and a suspension-type foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0044] Figure 26 is a view showing a configuration in which an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device and a pressure-operated brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0045] Figure 27 is a view showing a configuration in which a suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device and an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0046] Figure 28 is a view showing a configuration in which a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device and a pressure-operated brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0047] Figure 29 is a view showing a configuration in which a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and an organ-type foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat;

[0048] Figure 30 It is a view showing a configuration in which a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and a suspended foldable brake pedal device according to the present invention are combined into one set and installed in a space below a driver's seat. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Hereinafter, an autonomous driving vehicle including a foldable accelerator pedal apparatus and a foldable brake pedal apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figures 1 to 9 A foldable accordion pedal device is shown. The foldable accordion pedal device has a configuration that enables it to be used in an autonomous vehicle. Specifically, the foldable accordion pedal device has a configuration that enables it to be used as an accordion accelerator pedal device and an accordion brake pedal device.

[0051] As shown in the figure, the accordion-type foldable pedal device includes a pedal housing 10, a pedal pad 20, a pedal link 30 and an actuator 40. The pedal housing 10 is fixedly installed in the space under the driver's seat and has a housing hole 11 formed at its rear facing the driver; the pedal pad 20 is located in the housing hole 11, and the lower end of the pedal pad 20 is rotatably hinged to the pedal housing 10; the pedal link 30 connects the pedal housing 10 and the pedal pad 20 to each other; the actuator 40 is fixed to the pedal housing 10 and connected to the pedal link 30, and is configured to generate power to rotate the pedal link 30.

[0052] The pedal housing 10 is formed in a triangular shape in appearance such that its front surface is fixed to an instrument panel constituting a vehicle body and its bottom surface is fixed to a floor panel constituting a vehicle body in a space below a driver's seat, while the inside of the pedal housing 10 is empty.

[0053] The front surface and the bottom surface of the pedal housing 10 are arranged perpendicular to each other. The rear surface 12 facing the driver is arranged to be inclined. A housing hole 11 is formed on the rear surface 12 facing the driver, and a pedal pad 20 is installed in the housing hole 11.

[0054] The pedal pad 20 is located in the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10. The lower end of the pedal pad 20 receives a hinge pin 51 inserted therethrough. Both opposite ends of the hinge pin 51 penetrate the pedal housing 10 and are fixed thereto.

[0055] Therefore, the upper end of the pedal pad 20 can rotate in the front-to-rear direction around the hinge pin 51 located at the lower end of the pedal pad 20. When the upper end of the pedal pad 20 rotates forward, the pedal pad 20 is inserted into the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10, thereby closing the housing hole 11. When the upper end of the pedal pad 20 rotates rearward, the pedal pad 20 protrudes rearward from the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10 toward the driver.

[0056] The actuator 40 may be configured as a motor.

[0057] The embodiment according to the present invention further includes a main spring 60 wound around the hinge pin 51 and having its two opposite ends fixed to the pedal pad 20 and the hinge pin 51 ; and a secondary spring 70 connecting the pedal pad 20 and the pedal link 30 to each other.

[0058] The main spring 60 may be a torsion spring. When the pedal pad 20 rotates rearward to protrude from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver, the main spring 60 is compressed and accumulates elastic force. When the pedal pad 20 rotates forward to close the housing hole 11, the main spring 60 releases the accumulated elastic force and returns to its original shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, the pedal pad 20 receives a rotational force in the direction of closing the housing hole 11 due to the elastic force of the main spring 60.

[0059] The secondary spring 70 may be a compression coil spring. When the pedal pad 20 rotates forward to close the housing hole 11, the secondary spring 70 is compressed and accumulates elastic force. When the pedal pad 20 rotates rearward to protrude from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver, the secondary spring 70 is restored. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the pedal pad 20 receives a rotational force due to the elastic force of the secondary spring 70, protruding rearward from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic force of the main spring 60 is greater than the elastic force of the secondary spring 70. Therefore, when the actuator 40 is in an inactive state, the pedal pad 20 rotates forward under the elastic force of the main spring 60 and is located in the housing hole 11.

[0061] When the pedal pad 20 is in a state of protruding rearward from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver (ie, in a state where the pedal pad 20 pops up), if the driver steps on the pedal pad 20 , the elastic force of the secondary spring 70 acts as a reaction force, thereby generating a pedal force.

[0062] In order to accurately set the pedal force, it may be preferable to provide both the main spring 60 and the auxiliary spring 70 to act as the pedal force.

[0063] According to the embodiment of the present invention, it further includes a stopper 80, a permanent magnet 90 and a non-contact pedal sensor 110, the stopper 80 is connected to the pedal link 30, and when the pedal pad 20 rotates backward to protrude from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver, the stopper 80 controls the backward rotation angle of the pedal pad 20 by contacting the pedal housing 10; the permanent magnet 90 is fixed to the connecting rod shaft 31a, and the pedal link 30 is rotatably connected to the pedal housing 10 through the connecting rod shaft 31a; the non-contact pedal sensor 110 is mounted on the side cover 10 connected to the pedal housing 10, so that the non-contact pedal sensor 110 is opposite to the permanent magnet 90, and during the rotation of the pedal link 30, the rotation angle of the pedal pad 20 is detected by the change in magnetic field strength caused by the change in the rotational position of the permanent magnet 90.

[0064] When the pedal pad 20 rotates rearward to protrude from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver, the stopper 80 coupled to the pedal link 30 comes into contact with the inner surface of the rear surface 12 of the pedal housing 10, thereby limiting the angle of rearward rotation of the pedal pad 20. The stopper 80 may be made of any one of rubber, silicon, and synthetic resin to prevent noise from being generated when in contact with the pedal housing 10. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0065] The pedal sensor 110 includes a printed circuit board (PCB). With the configuration in which the permanent magnet 90 is located on the connecting rod shaft 31a (which serves as the rotation center of the pedal link 30), the accuracy of the signal output from the pedal sensor 110 can be further improved.

[0066] According to the present invention, the pedal link 30 includes a rotating link 31 and a connecting link 32. The rotating link 31 is provided with a connecting rod shaft 31a, which is rotatably connected to the pedal housing 10 and connected to the actuator 40, thereby receiving power from the actuator 40; the two opposite ends of the connecting link 32 are rotatably hinged to the rotating link 31 and the pedal pad 20, thereby connecting the rotating link 31 and the pedal pad 20 to each other.

[0067] The lower end of the rotating link 31 is provided with a link shaft 31a. The link shaft 31a is rotatably coupled to the lower surface of the pedal housing 10. The rotating link 31 is connected to the actuator 40 so as to be rotated by power from the actuator 40.

[0068] An upper end of the rotating link 31 is rotatably coupled to a rear end of the connecting link 32 through a first pin 52 , and a front end of the connecting link 32 is rotatably coupled to the pedal pad 20 through a second pin 53 .

[0069] According to the present invention, the angle formed by the rotating link 31 and the connecting link 32 always remains at an acute angle regardless of the rotation of the pedal pad 20. When the pedal pad 20 rotates rearward to protrude from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver, if an obtuse angle is formed between the rotating link 31 and the connecting link 32, the pedal pad 20 protrudes too far rearward, causing a problem in which the driver cannot accurately step on the pedal pad 20. To prevent this problem, it is preferable that the angle formed by the rotating link 31 and the connecting link 32 always remains at an acute angle regardless of the rotation of the pedal pad 20.

[0070] According to the present invention, one end of the auxiliary spring 70 connected to the pedal pad 20 is coupled to the rotating link 31. A permanent magnet 90 is fixed to the end of the link shaft 31a of the rotating link 31. The connecting link 32 is formed with a stopper hole 32a, and a stopper 80 is inserted into the stopper hole 32a. The stopper 80 controls the rearward rotation angle of the pedal pad 20 by contacting the pedal housing 10.

[0071] When the driver selects the automatic driving mode, the upper end of the pedal pad 20 rotates forward around the hinge pin 51 provided at the lower end of the pedal pad 20 by the driving force of the actuator 40 in its first rotation direction and the elastic force of the main spring 60. As a result, the pedal pad 20 is inserted into the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10 and closes the housing hole 11. In this case, the pedal pad 20 is on the same plane as the rear surface 12 of the pedal housing 10, so the pedal pad 20 is hidden (refer to FIG. Figures 2 to 4 ).

[0072] When the pedal pad 20 is in a hidden state (where the pedal pad 20 is inserted into the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10), the space under the driver's seat becomes a wide space without pedals. Therefore, the driver can rest comfortably in the relaxation mode.

[0073] In addition, when the pedal pad 20 is in the hidden state (where the pedal pad 20 is inserted into the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10), since the pedal is not exposed in the space under the driver's seat, the driver can be prevented from erroneously operating the pedal in the case of automatic driving.

[0074] When the driver selects the manual driving mode (in which the driver manually drives the vehicle), the upper end of the pedal pad 20 rotates rearward toward the driver around the hinge pin 51 provided at the lower end of the pedal pad 20 by the driving force of the actuator 40 in its second rotational direction, the rotation of the pedal link 30, and the deformation of the spring. As a result, the pedal pad 20 pops up, that is, protrudes from the housing hole 11 of the pedal housing 10 (refer to FIG. Figures 5 to 8 ).

[0075] When the pedal pad 20 is in the popped-up state (in which the pedal pad 20 is rotated rearward and protrudes from the pedal housing 10 toward the driver), the driver operates the pedal pad 20 with a foot to control acceleration or braking required for driving of the vehicle.

[0076] In a state where the pedal pad 20 is ejected, if the driver steps on the pedal pad 20 , the elastic force of the secondary spring 70 acts as a reaction force, thereby generating a pedal force.

[0077] At the same time, if Figure 9 As shown, in an autonomous driving vehicle, the accordion-type foldable pedal device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be used as both a accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 and a accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000 .

[0078] As described above, in the case where the accordion-type foldable pedal device according to the present invention is used as both the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 and the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000 of an autonomous driving vehicle, the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 is installed to be in close contact with the side surface of the console 130 in the space 120 under the driver's seat, and the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000 is installed to be in close contact with one side surface of the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000.

[0079] In this case, the side surface of the pedal housing 10 of the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000, which is in close contact with the console 130, has an open structure 140 without the side cover 100. However, the open structure 140 is covered by the console 130 and is not exposed to the outside, thereby preventing the introduction of foreign matter and reducing the weight and manufacturing cost of the product.

[0080] In addition, the opposite side surfaces of the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 (which is in close contact with the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000) and each of the two opposite side surfaces of the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000 have a structure enclosed by a side cover 100, thereby ensuring a sufficient amount of strength and rigidity, avoiding exposure to the outside and preventing the introduction of foreign matter.

[0081] Figures 10 to 18 A suspended, foldable pedal device is shown. The suspended, foldable pedal device has a configuration that enables it to be used in an autonomous vehicle. Specifically, the suspended, foldable pedal device has a configuration that enables it to be used as a suspended, foldable accelerator pedal device and a suspended, foldable brake pedal device.

[0082] As shown in the figure, the suspended foldable pedal device includes a pedal housing 310, a pedal arm 320, a pedal pad 330 and an actuator 340, the pedal housing 310 is fixedly installed in the space under the driver's seat, and a housing hole 311 is formed on its rear part facing the driver; the pedal arm 320 is hinged to the pedal housing 310 so as to be able to rotate in the front and rear directions; the pedal pad 330 is arranged on the pedal arm 320, and the pedal pad 330 is configured to close the housing hole 311 when the pedal arm 320 rotates forward, and to protrude backward from the pedal housing 310 toward the driver when the pedal arm 320 rotates backward; the actuator 340 is fixed to the pedal housing 310 and connected to the pedal arm 320, and the actuator 340 is configured to generate power to rotate the pedal arm 320.

[0083] The pedal housing 310 is formed in a schematic rectangular box shape in appearance, so that its rear surface protrudes further upward and tilted forward relative to its top surface, and its front surface is fixed to the instrument panel (the instrument panel constitutes the vehicle body), and the bottom surface 312 of the pedal housing 310 is fixed to the floor panel in the space under the driver's seat (the floor panel constitutes the vehicle body), while the interior of the pedal housing 310 is empty.

[0084] The front surface and bottom surface 312 of the pedal housing 10 are arranged perpendicular to each other. The rear surface 313 facing the driver is arranged to be inclined. A housing hole 311 is formed on the rear surface 313 facing the driver, and the pedal pad 330 is installed in the housing hole 311.

[0085] Although the housing hole 311 is shown as a rectangular hole in the drawing, it may be formed in any of various shapes other than a rectangular shape.

[0086] The pedal arm 320 is located in the inner space of the pedal housing 310. The upper end of the pedal arm 320 is hinged to the pedal housing 310 to serve as the rotation center of the pedal arm 320, and the lower end of the pedal arm 320 rotates around the upper end of the pedal arm 320 in the front-rear direction.

[0087] The pedal pad 330 is located outside the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310. The pedal arm 320 passes through a housing hole 311 formed in the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310 and is connected to the pedal pad 330.

[0088] The pedal pad 330 may be formed integrally with the pedal arm 320. Alternatively, the pedal arm 320 and the pedal pad 330 may be manufactured separately from each other and then coupled to each other via a coupling member.

[0089] When the lower end of the pedal arm 320 rotates rearward about the upper end of the pedal arm 320 (the upper end being hinged to the pedal housing 310), the pedal pad 330 protrudes rearward toward the driver from the housing hole 311 of the pedal housing 310. When the pedal arm 320 rotates forward while the pedal pad 330 protrudes rearward from the pedal housing 310, the rearwardly protruding pedal pad 330 moves toward the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310, thereby closing the housing hole 311 formed in the rear surface 313.

[0090] The actuator 340 may be configured as a motor.

[0091] An embodiment of the present invention further includes an operating force spring 350 and a return spring 360, wherein the operating force spring 350 is located at a position corresponding to the rotation center of the pedal arm 320 and its two opposite ends are fixed to the pedal housing 310 and the pedal arm 320; the return spring 360 extends in the front-to-back direction and is fixed at its two opposite ends to the main body of the pedal arm 320 and the pedal housing 310.

[0092] The operating force spring 350 may be a torsion spring. When the pedal arm 320 rotates forward so that the pedal pad 330 closes the housing hole 311, the operating force spring 350 is compressed and accumulates elastic force. When the pedal arm 320 rotates backward so that the pedal pad 330 protrudes from the pedal housing 310 toward the driver, the operating force spring 350 releases the accumulated elastic force and restores its shape. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0093] The return spring 360 may be a compression coil spring that is compressed and accumulates elastic force when the pedal arm 320 rotates backward so that the pedal pad 330 protrudes from the pedal housing 310 toward the driver, and that restores its shape by releasing the accumulated elastic force when the pedal arm 320 rotates forward so that the pedal pad 330 closes the housing hole 311. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic force of the return spring 360 is greater than the elastic force of the operating force spring 350. Therefore, when the actuator 340 is in an inactive state, the pedal arm 320 rotates forward under the elastic force of the return spring 360, so that the pedal pad 330 is in close contact with the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310 to close the housing hole 311.

[0095] When the pedal pad 330 is in a state of protruding from the pedal housing 310 toward the rear of the driver (i.e., when the pedal pad 330 is popped out), if the driver steps on the pedal pad 330, the elastic force of the operating force spring 350 and the elastic force of the return spring 360 act as a reaction force, thereby generating a pedal force.

[0096] Even without the operating force spring, a sufficient amount of pedal force can be generated using only the elastic force of the return spring 360. However, in order to accurately set the pedal force, it is preferable to provide both the operating force spring 350 and the return spring 360.

[0097] According to the present invention, the pedal arm 320 includes a vertical rod portion 323, an inclined rod portion 324 and a connecting rod portion 325, the upper end of the vertical rod portion 323 is provided with a pedal arm shaft 321 hinged to the pedal housing 310, and the lower end of the vertical rod portion 323 includes a formed stop portion 322, one end of the operating force spring 350 is connected to the vertical rod portion 323, so that the operating force spring 350 is located adjacent to the pedal arm shaft 321; one end of the inclined rod portion 324 is connected to the vertical rod portion 323, and its opposite end is connected to the pedal pad 330 through the housing hole 311; the connecting rod portion 325 connects the vertical rod portion 323 and the inclined rod portion 324 to each other, and one end of the return spring 360 is connected to the connecting rod portion 325.

[0098] In addition, the present invention further includes a shell protrusion 370 and a stop portion 322, wherein the shell protrusion 370 protrudes upward from the bottom surface 312 of the pedal housing 310 in the internal space of the pedal housing 310; the stop portion 322 is arranged on the pedal arm 320, so that the stop portion 322 contacts the shell protrusion 370 when the pedal arm 320 rotates backward.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the pedal arm 320 rotates rearward, the stopper 322 provided to the pedal arm 320 contacts the housing protrusion 370 provided to the pedal housing 310 , thereby controlling the rearward rotation angle of the pedal arm 320 .

[0100] Furthermore, the pedal pad 330 according to the present invention is formed to have an area larger than the area of ​​the housing hole 311 formed in the pedal housing 310. Therefore, when the pedal arm 320 rotates forward, the pedal pad 330 does not pass through the housing hole 311 but comes into close contact with the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310, thereby controlling the forward rotation angle of the pedal arm 320.

[0101] The housing protrusion 370 formed on the pedal housing 310 may be made of any one of rubber, silicon, and synthetic resin to prevent noise from being generated when contacting the stopper 322 of the pedal arm 320. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0102] In addition, the embodiment according to the present invention further includes a permanent magnet 380 and a non-contact pedal sensor 400, the permanent magnet 380 is fixed to the pedal arm shaft 321, and the pedal arm 320 is rotatably connected to the pedal housing 310 through the pedal arm shaft 321; the non-contact pedal sensor 400 is installed on the side cover 390 connected to the pedal housing 310, so that the non-contact pedal sensor 400 is opposite to the permanent magnet 380, and during the rotation of the pedal arm 320, the rotation angle of the pedal arm 320 is detected by the change in magnetic field strength caused by the change in the rotational position of the permanent magnet 380.

[0103] The pedal sensor 400 includes a printed circuit board (PCB). With the configuration in which the permanent magnet 380 is located on the pedal arm shaft 321 (which serves as the rotation center of the pedal arm 320), the accuracy of the signal output from the pedal sensor 400 can be further improved.

[0104] When the driver selects the automatic driving mode, the lower end of the pedal arm 320 rotates forward around the pedal arm shaft 321 provided at the upper end of the pedal arm 320 by the driving force of the actuator 340 and the elastic force of the return spring 360. Therefore, the pedal pad 330 provided on the pedal arm 320 moves toward the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310 and closes the housing hole 311. In this case, the pedal pad 330 is in close contact with the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310, so that the pedal pad 330 is hidden (refer to FIG. Figures 11 to 13 ).

[0105] When the pedal pad 330 is in a hidden state (where the pedal pad 330 is in close contact with the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310), the space under the driver's seat becomes a wide space with no pedals therein. Therefore, the driver can rest comfortably in the relaxation mode.

[0106] In addition, when the pedal pad 330 is in a hidden state (where the pedal pad 330 is in close contact with the rear surface 313 of the pedal housing 310), since the pedal is not exposed in the space under the driver's seat, the driver can be prevented from accidentally operating the pedal in the case of automatic driving.

[0107] When the driver selects the manual driving mode (in which the driver manually drives the vehicle), the lower end of the pedal arm 320 rotates rearward toward the driver around the pedal arm shaft 321 provided at the upper end of the pedal arm 320 by the driving force of the actuator 340 and the deformation of the spring. As a result, the pedal pad 330 (provided on the pedal arm 320) pops up, that is, protrudes from the housing hole 311 of the pedal housing 310 toward the rear of the driver (refer to FIG. Figures 14 to 17 ).

[0108] When the pedal pad 330 is in the popped-up state (in which the pedal pad 330 protrudes rearward toward the driver due to the rearward rotation of the pedal arm 320 ), the driver operates the pedal pad 330 with a foot to control acceleration or braking required for driving of the vehicle.

[0109] In a state where the pedal pad 330 is ejected, if the driver steps on the pedal pad 330 , the elastic force of the operating force spring 350 and the elastic force of the return spring 360 act as a reaction force, thereby generating a pedal force.

[0110] At the same time, if Figure 18 As shown, in an autonomous driving vehicle, the suspended foldable pedal device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be used as both a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 and a suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000 .

[0111] As described above, when the suspended foldable pedal device according to the present invention is used as a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 and a suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000 in an autonomous driving vehicle, the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 is installed to be in close contact with the side surface of the console 130 in the space 120 under the driver's seat, and the suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000 is installed to be in close contact with one side surface of the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000.

[0112] In this case, the side surface of the pedal housing 310 of the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000, which is in close contact with the console 130, has an open structure 410 without the side cover 390. However, the open structure 410 is covered by the console 130 and is not exposed to the outside, thereby preventing the introduction of foreign matter and reducing the weight and manufacturing cost of the product.

[0113] In addition, the opposite side surfaces of the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 (which is in close contact with the suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000) and each of the two opposite side surfaces of the suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000 have a structure enclosed by a side cover 390, thereby ensuring a sufficient amount of strength and rigidity, avoiding exposure to the outside and preventing the introduction of foreign matter.

[0114] Figures 19 to 22 A pressure-operated pedal device is shown. The pressure-operated pedal device has a configuration that can be used in an autonomous vehicle. Specifically, the pressure-operated pedal device has a configuration that enables it to be used as a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and a pressure-operated brake pedal device.

[0115] As shown in the figure, the pressure-operated pedal device includes a pedal housing 510, a pressure sensor 520, a pedal pad 530, an elastic damper 540 and a side cover 550. The pedal housing 510 is fixedly installed in the space 120 under the driver's seat; the pressure sensor 520 is fixed on the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510 facing the driver; the pedal pad 530 is fixed on the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510 and is located on the rear surface of the pressure sensor 520; the elastic damper 540 is connected to the bottom surface of the pedal pad 530 and contacts the pressure sensor 520; and the side cover 550 is connected to the side surface of the pedal housing 510.

[0116] The pedal housing 510 is formed in a triangular shape in appearance so that its front surface is fixed to the instrument panel (which constitutes the vehicle body) and its bottom surface is fixed to the floor panel (which constitutes the vehicle body) in the space below the driver's seat, while the interior of the pedal housing 510 is empty.

[0117] The front surface and the bottom surface of the pedal housing 510 are arranged perpendicular to each other, and the rear surface 511 facing the driver is arranged to be inclined.

[0118] The pressure sensor 520 is fixed to the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510. The pressure sensor 520 may be configured as a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0119] The pedal pad 530, which the driver steps on, is fixed to the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510. To this end, a plurality of coupling protrusions 531 are formed to protrude from the rear surface of the pedal pad 530. The coupling protrusions 531 of the pedal pad 530 pass through the coupling holes 512 (the coupling holes 512 are formed in the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510). The fixing clip 560 is coupled to the end of the coupling protrusion 531 (the end passing through the coupling hole 512). As a result, the pedal pad 530 is fixed to the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510.

[0120] Specifically, the pedal pad 530 fixed to the rear surface 511 of the pedal housing 510 is located on the rear surface of the pressure sensor 520 .

[0121] The elastic damper 540 is installed such that one end thereof is fixed to the front surface of the pedal pad 530 and the opposite end thereof contacts the pressure sensor 520. When the driver steps on the pedal pad 530, the elastic damper 540 generates a pedal force using its elastic force.

[0122] The elastic damper 540 may be made of any one of rubber, silicon, and synthetic resin having elasticity to prevent noise from being generated. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0123] At the same time, if Figure 22As shown, in an autonomous vehicle, the pressure-operated pedal device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be used as both a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000 and a pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000.

[0124] Therefore, when the driver steps on the pedal pad 530, the pressure generated thereby is transmitted to the pressure sensor 520 through the elastic damper 540, and the pressure signal detected by the pressure sensor 520 is used to generate an acceleration signal and a braking signal required for vehicle driving.

[0125] As described above, in the case where the pressure-operated pedal device according to the present invention is used as both the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000 and the pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000 of an autonomous vehicle, the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000 is installed to be in close contact with the side surface of the console 130 in the space 120 under the driver's seat, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000 is installed to be in close contact with one side surface of the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000.

[0126] In this case, the side surface of the pedal housing 510 of the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000, which is in close contact with the console 130, has an open structure 570 without the side cover 550. However, the open structure 570 is covered by the console 130 and is therefore not exposed to the outside, thereby preventing the introduction of foreign matter and reducing the weight and manufacturing cost of the product.

[0127] In addition, the opposite side surfaces of the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000 (which are in close contact with the pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000) and each of the two opposite side surfaces of the pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000 have a structure enclosed by a side cover 550, thereby ensuring a sufficient amount of strength and rigidity, avoiding exposure to the outside and preventing the introduction of foreign matter.

[0128] As described above, the foldable pedal device for an autonomous driving vehicle according to the present invention has a configuration capable of being used as a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device.

[0129] Specifically, the foldable accelerator pedal device includes any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000. The foldable brake pedal device includes any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000, a suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000. Depending on the driver's preference, any of the foldable accelerator pedal devices and any of the foldable brake pedal devices can be selectively combined into a set, and this set of devices can be installed in space 120 below the driver's seat of an autonomous vehicle. As a result, various driver preferences can be met, thereby improving the marketability of the product.

[0130] When any one type of foldable accelerator pedal device and any one type of foldable brake pedal device are selectively combined into a group and installed in the space 120 under the driver's seat, the foldable accelerator pedal device is installed so that one side surface thereof is in close contact with the side surface of the console 130 in the space 120 under the driver's seat, and the foldable brake pedal device is installed so that one side surface thereof is in close contact with the opposite side surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device.

[0131] At the same time, in order to conveniently combine the foldable accelerator pedal device with the foldable brake pedal device, as Figure 23A and Figure 23B As shown, the foldable accelerator pedal devices 1000 , 3000 , and 5000 may be formed to have the same width D1 in the left-right direction, and the foldable brake pedal devices 2000 , 4000 , and 6000 may be formed to have the same width D2 in the left-right direction.

[0132] In addition, if Figure 24 As shown, any type of foldable accelerator pedal device and any type of foldable brake pedal device can be selectively combined into a group, and the group of devices can be installed in the space 120 under the driver's seat, so that the top surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 and the top surface of the foldable brake pedal device 4000 match each other without height difference in the up and down directions (reference straight line L1), thereby smoothly realizing the combination of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device.

[0133] A configuration in which any one type of foldable accelerator pedal apparatus and any one type of foldable brake pedal apparatus are selectively combined as a group will be described below.

[0134] like Figure 9As shown, the first case has a structure in which an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 and an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000 are combined into a set and installed in a space 120 below a driver's seat.

[0135] like Figure 18 As shown, the second case has a structure in which a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 and a suspended foldable brake pedal device 4000 are combined into a set and installed in a space 120 below a driver's seat.

[0136] like Figure 22 As shown, the third case has a structure in which a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000 and a pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000 are combined into a set and installed in a space 120 below a driver's seat.

[0137] like Figure 25 As shown, the fourth case has a structure in which an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 and a suspension-type foldable brake pedal device 4000 are combined into a set and installed in a space 120 below a driver's seat.

[0138] like Figure 26 As shown, the fifth case has a structure in which an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device 1000 and a pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000 are combined into a set and installed in a space 120 below a driver's seat.

[0139] like Figure 27 As shown, the sixth case has a structure in which the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 and the accordion foldable brake pedal device 2000 are combined into a set and installed in the space 120 below the driver's seat.

[0140] like Figure 28 As shown, the seventh case has a structure in which the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device 3000 and the pressure-operated brake pedal device 6000 are combined into a set and installed in the space 120 below the driver's seat.

[0141] like Figure 29 As shown, the eighth case has a structure in which a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device 5000 and an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device 2000 are combined into a set and installed in a space 120 below a driver's seat.

[0142] As apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, the foldable accelerator pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended-type foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device. Depending on the driver's preference, any of the foldable accelerator pedal devices and any of the foldable brake pedal devices can be selectively combined into a set and installed in the space below the driver's seat of an autonomous vehicle. As a result, various driver preferences can be met, thereby improving the marketability of the product.

[0143] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. An autonomous driving vehicle comprising: driver's seat; A foldable accelerator pedal device, wherein the foldable accelerator pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device, or a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device; A foldable brake pedal device, wherein the foldable brake pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended-type foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device; wherein a foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device are installed in the space below the driver's seat; wherein the space below the driver's seat is configured to accommodate a combination of any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device; Each of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device includes a pedal housing having a predetermined shape to define its appearance, and the pedal housing is fixedly installed in a space below a driver's seat; Each pedal housing includes a housing hole formed at a rear portion of the pedal housing, the housing hole facing the driver's seat, a pedal pad located at the housing hole, the pedal pad being configured to close the housing hole or protrude from the housing hole according to a driving mode; In the automatic driving mode, the pedal pad is configured to close the housing hole in a hidden state, and in the manual driving mode, the pedal pad is configured to protrude from the housing hole in a pop-up state.

2. The autonomous driving vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device each have a pedal housing having a predetermined shape to define its appearance; A pedal housing of the foldable accelerator pedal device and a pedal housing of the foldable brake pedal device are installed to be in surface contact with each other.

3. The autonomous driving vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: the foldable accelerator pedal device is installed so that one side surface thereof is in close contact with a side surface of a console in a space below a driver's seat; The foldable brake pedal device is installed so that one side surface thereof is in close contact with an opposite side surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device.

4. The autonomous driving vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, the suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device have the same width in the left-right direction; The accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, the suspended-type foldable brake pedal device, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device have the same width in the left-right direction; a space below the driver's seat configured to accommodate a combination of any one of the accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, the suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and any one of the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, the suspended foldable brake pedal device, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device; The foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device are installed in a space below a driver's seat so that top surfaces of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device match each other without a height difference in an up-down direction.

5. The autonomous driving vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a accordion-type foldable brake pedal device.

6. The autonomous driving vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a suspended foldable brake pedal device.

7. The autonomous driving vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a pressure-operated brake pedal device.

8. The autonomous driving vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a suspended-type foldable brake pedal device.

9. The autonomous driving vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a pressure-operated brake pedal device.

10. The autonomous driving vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes an accordion foldable brake pedal device.

11. The autonomous driving vehicle of claim 1 , wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a pressure-operated brake pedal device.

12. The autonomous driving vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes the accordion-type foldable brake pedal device.

13. The autonomous driving vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a suspended foldable brake pedal device.

14. A method for assembling an autonomous driving vehicle, the method comprising the following steps: A foldable accelerator pedal device and a foldable brake pedal device are provided, wherein: The foldable accelerator pedal device includes any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device; wherein the foldable brake pedal device includes any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device; selecting any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device as the foldable accelerator pedal device; selecting any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended-type foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device as the foldable brake pedal device; installing the selected foldable accelerator pedal device and foldable brake pedal device in a space adjacent to a driver's seat area of ​​a vehicle body, wherein the vehicle body is configured to accommodate a combination of any one of an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device and any one of an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device; wherein each of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the foldable brake pedal device includes a pedal housing having a predetermined shape to define its appearance, and the pedal housing is fixedly installed in a space below a driver's seat; Each pedal housing includes a housing hole formed at a rear portion of the pedal housing, the housing hole facing the driver's seat, a pedal pad located at the housing hole, the pedal pad being configured to close the housing hole or protrude from the housing hole according to a driving mode; In the automatic driving mode, the pedal pad is configured to close the housing hole in a hidden state, and in the manual driving mode, the pedal pad is configured to protrude from the housing hole in a pop-up state.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein The step of providing a foldable accelerator pedal device includes providing an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, a suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device; The step of providing a foldable brake pedal device includes providing an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, a suspended-type foldable brake pedal device, and a pressure-operated brake pedal device.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein The accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, the suspended-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the pressure-operated accelerator pedal device have the same width in the left-right direction; The accordion-type foldable brake pedal device, the suspension-type foldable brake pedal device, and the pressure-operated brake pedal device have the same width in the left-right direction.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein The installation step includes installing the selected foldable accelerator pedal device and foldable brake pedal device in a space adjacent to the driver's seat so that the top surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the top surface of the foldable brake pedal device match each other without any height difference in the upper and lower directions.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein The installation step includes installing the selected foldable accelerator pedal device and foldable brake pedal device in a space adjacent to the driver's seat so that the top surface of the foldable accelerator pedal device and the top surface of the foldable brake pedal device match each other without any height difference in the upper and lower directions.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein The step of selecting is performed such that: The foldable accelerator pedal device comprises an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device comprises an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a suspended foldable brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device comprises a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device comprises a pressure-operated brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a suspended-type foldable brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device comprises an accordion-type foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device comprises a pressure-operated brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes an accordion foldable brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device comprises a suspended foldable accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device comprises a pressure-operated brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes an accordion-type foldable brake pedal device; or The foldable accelerator pedal device includes a pressure-operated accelerator pedal device, and the foldable brake pedal device includes a suspended foldable brake pedal device.

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