Vehicle pedal assembly for left foot braking

Abstract

The invention provides a vehicle pedal assembly for left foot braking. A pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle may include a first pedal that may include a first pedal arm and a first pedal pad and may be operably coupled to a powertrain of the vehicle; and a second pedal that may include a second pedal arm and a second pedal pad and may be operably coupled to a brake assembly of the vehicle. The pedal assembly is adjustable between a first condition, in which the pedal assembly can be arranged for one-foot operation, and a second condition, in which the pedal assembly can be arranged for two-foot operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The example embodiment generally relates to a pedal assembly for operating a vehicle, and more specifically to a pedal assembly for left-foot braking. Background Technology

[0002] Left-foot braking is a driving technique used in specific vehicle operating scenarios, such as off-roading. Essentially, left-foot braking refers to the vehicle operator using their left foot to actuate the brake pedal, which offers several advantages over the more traditional right-foot braking technique. In this respect, by using left-foot braking, the transition from movement to braking is smoother and faster, and the weight transfer of the vehicle during the transition is also smoother. Therefore, in some cases, it may be desirable to develop a pedal assembly for a vehicle that enhances the driver's left-foot braking experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to an example embodiment, a pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle can therefore be provided. The pedal assembly may include: a first pedal, which may include a first pedal arm and a first pedal pad and is operatively coupled to the vehicle's powertrain; and a second pedal, which may include a second pedal arm and a second pedal pad and is operatively coupled to the vehicle's braking assembly. The second pedal arm may be operatively coupled to a linear actuator assembly. The linear actuator assembly allows the second pedal to be laterally displaced between a first position, in which the second pedal is positioned close to the first pedal, and in the second position, in which the second pedal is positioned further away from the first pedal than in the first position.

[0004] According to another example embodiment, a pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle can therefore be provided. The pedal assembly may include a first actuation assembly operably coupled to a powertrain of the vehicle and a second actuation assembly operably coupled to a braking assembly of the vehicle. The first actuation assembly may include a first engagement portion having a first surface area. The second actuation assembly may include a second engagement portion having a second surface area. The second actuation assembly may be configured in a first state and a second state. The second surface area may be larger in the second state than in the first state. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Having thus generally described the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in the drawings:

[0006] Figure 1 A block diagram of a vehicle according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0007] Figure 2 A perspective view of a pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0008] Figure 3 A perspective view of a pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0009] Figure 4 A rear perspective view of the second pedal in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0010] Figure 5 A perspective view of the pedal assembly in a second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0011] Figure 6 A side view of the second pedal according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0012] Figure 7 A close-up perspective view of a pedal assembly according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0013] Figure 8 A perspective view of a pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0014] Figure 9 A bottom perspective view of the pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0015] Figure 10 A close-up bottom perspective view of the second pedal in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0016] Figure 11 A top perspective view of the second pedal in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0017] Figure 12 A perspective view of the pedal assembly in a second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0018] Figure 13 A close-up perspective view of the second pedal in the second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0019] Figure 14 A close-up bottom perspective view of the second pedal in the second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0020] Figure 15 A top perspective view of the second pedal in the second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0021] Figure 16 A perspective view of a pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0022] Figure 17 A rear perspective view of the pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0023] Figure 18 A bottom perspective view of the third pedal in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0024] Figure 19 A perspective view of the pedal assembly in a second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0025] Figure 20 A rear perspective view of the pedal assembly in a second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0026] Figure 21 A perspective view of the third pedal in the second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0027] Figure 22 A perspective view of a pedal assembly in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0028] Figure 23 A close-up perspective view of the second pedal in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0029] Figure 24 A perspective view of the second pedal in a first state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0030] Figure 25 A perspective view of a pedal pad attachment according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0031] Figure 26 A perspective view of the pedal assembly in a second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0032] Figure 27 A close-up perspective view of the second pedal in the second state according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0033] Figure 28 A close-up bottom perspective view of the second pedal in the second state according to an example embodiment is shown; and

[0034] Figure 29 A rear perspective view of the pedal assembly in a second state according to an example embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Some exemplary embodiments will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, exemplary embodiments. In fact, the examples described and depicted herein should not be construed as limiting the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable requirements. The same reference numerals always refer to the same elements. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “or” will be interpreted as a logical operator that produces a true result whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, an operable connection should be understood to involve direct or indirect connections, in either case of which the connection enables functional interconnection of components operably linked to each other.

[0036] Additionally, as used herein, terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” when referring to the variability of a parameter should be understood as definite approximations that take into account variations in measurements that cannot be precisely measured or are generally not measured precisely as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Therefore, for example, a parameter with a given value or given characteristic that is “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” should be understood as being sufficiently close to the given value or given characteristic such that, from the perspective of a person of ordinary skill in the art, the performance of the object or product to which the parameter is applied is the same as if the object or product exactly had the given value or characteristic.

[0037] To enhance the operator's left-foot braking experience, some non-limiting examples may include a pedal assembly adjustable between a first state and a second state. The first state may correspond to normal / everyday driving where the operator can actuate both the first and second pedals using only their right foot, while the second state may utilize left-foot braking to enhance the operator's experience. In some cases, actuation of the pedal assembly in the first state may be referred to as normal actuation, right-foot actuation, single-foot actuation, one-foot actuation, etc., while actuation of the pedal assembly in the second state may be referred to as left-foot actuation, double-foot actuation, two-foot actuation, etc. Some non-limiting examples can make left-foot braking more ideal, thus enhancing the operator's experience using left-foot braking.

[0038] Figure 1 A block diagram of a vehicle 100 according to an example embodiment is shown. Figure 1As shown, among other components, vehicle 100 may also include a brake assembly 110 and a powertrain 120. Both the brake assembly 110 and the powertrain 120 are operatively coupled to the wheels (not shown) of vehicle 100 to influence the movement of vehicle 100. In this respect, the powertrain 120 may provide power to the wheels to move vehicle 100, while the brake assembly 110 may apply a stopping force to the wheels to slow or stop vehicle 100 or hold vehicle 100 in place. Operator 130 of vehicle 100 may, as needed, provide operating inputs to both brake assembly 110 and powertrain 120 via pedal assembly 140 to operate vehicle 100. Pedal assembly 140 may be disposed in footrest space 150 of vehicle 100, close to operator 130 when operator 130 is in the position of operating vehicle 100. In some cases, the pedal assembly 140 may include a first pedal 160 operably coupled to the powertrain 120 and a second pedal 170 operably coupled to the brake assembly 110. In an example embodiment, the operational input may be actuation of either the first pedal 160 or the second pedal 170. Thus, in response to operator 130 actuating the first pedal 160, the powertrain 120 may supply power to the wheels, which may then rotate and move the vehicle 100. On the other hand, in response to operator 130 actuating the second pedal 170, the brake assembly 110 may apply a stopping force to the wheels, which may then reduce the rotational speed of the wheels to slow down and stop the vehicle 100.

[0039] As described above, the pedal assembly 140 may be disposed in the footrest space 150 of the vehicle 100. The footrest space 150 may also be a place where the operator 130 can rest their feet when their feet are in the proper position for operating the vehicle 100. In some cases, the footrest space 150 may include a first sidewall 152 and a second sidewall 154, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being disposed substantially parallel to each other on opposite sides of the pedal assembly 140, such as... Figure 1 As shown. The first sidewall 152 and the second sidewall 154 may define the width of the footrest space 150 extending between them. In many current embodiments, the first pedal 160 may be disposed close to the first sidewall 152, while the second pedal 170 may be disposed on the side of the first pedal 160 opposite to the first sidewall 152, but still closer to the first pedal 160 than to the second sidewall 154. This arrangement of the first pedal (160) and the second pedal (170) of the pedal assembly 140 may make the operator 130 of the vehicle 100 less inclined to use the aforementioned left-foot braking technology. Therefore, in some cases, the pedal assembly 140 may be modified to enhance the experience of the operator 130.

[0040] Figure 2A pedal assembly 140 according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted. As described above, the pedal assembly 140 may include a first pedal 160 and a second pedal 170. The first pedal 160 may be operatively coupled to a powertrain 120 to control power supply to the wheels, while the second pedal 170 may be operatively coupled to a brake assembly 110 to control the application of stopping force to the wheels. The first pedal 160 may include a first pedal arm 162 rotatably and operatively coupled to a vehicle 100 at a first end of a first pedal arm 162 and a first pedal pad 164 disposed at a second end of the first pedal arm 162. Similarly, the second pedal 170 may include a second pedal arm 172 rotatably and operatively coupled to a vehicle 100 at a first end of a second pedal arm 172 and a second pedal pad 174 disposed at a second end of the second pedal arm 172. In some cases, operator 130 can actuate the first pedal (160) and the second pedal (170) by applying force to the first pedal pad (164) and the second pedal pad (174) so ​​that the first pedal (160) and the second pedal (170) rotate about rotatable couplings of the vehicle 100 at their respective distal ends of the first pedal arm (162) and the second pedal arm (172). Figure 2 The pedal assembly can be shown in a first state, as explained above, which corresponds to right foot operation of the pedal assembly 140.

[0041] Figures 3 to 7 Various views of a pedal assembly 140 according to an example embodiment are shown. Figures 3 to 7In the embodiments depicted, the pedal assembly 140 may further include a linear actuator assembly 180 that can move the second pedal 170 away from the first pedal 160. In this regard, the linear actuator assembly 180 may include: a lead screw 182 horizontally disposed between a first sidewall 152 and a second sidewall 154 of the footrest space 150 in which the pedal assembly 140 is disposed; and a motor 184 operatively coupled to the lead screw 182, the motor being capable of rotating the lead screw 182. Thus, the linear actuator assembly 180 can at least support the second pedal 170 and operatively connect the second pedal 170 to the vehicle 100. In some cases, the lead screw 182 may be operatively coupled to the footrest space 150 at both a first and a second end. In some other cases, the lead screw 182 may be cantilevered into the footrest space 150 from either the first sidewall (152) or the second sidewall (154), and may not be operatively connected to the other of the first sidewall (152) and the second sidewall (154). Similarly, in some cases, the motor 184 may be located only at the first end of the lead screw 182 near the first pedal 160. In some other example embodiments, the motor 184 may be located at either the first end or the second end of the lead screw 182, or sometimes a motor 184 may be located at both the first end and the second end of the lead screw 182. The motor 184 may be operatively connected to a power source and capable of rotating the lead screw 182 about a rotation axis 186. The rotation axis 186 may be located in the direction of movement of the second pedal 170. In other words, the second pedal 170 may move axially along the rotation axis 186 in response to rotation of the lead screw 182 about the rotation axis 186 by the motor 184. In some example embodiments, the motor 184 may rotate the lead screw 182 in response to input received from operator 130 via a button, actuator, or interface. In another example embodiment, the linear actuator assembly 180 may not include the motor 184, and the lead screw 182 may be manually rotated about a rotation axis 186. The lead screw 182 may be rotated by hand, by a crank arm, or by other similar rotating medium.

[0042] Regardless of how the lead screw 182 can be actuated, operator 130 can use the linear actuator assembly 180 to adjust the lateral position of the second pedal 170 as needed. This is likely due to the lead screw 182 including a threaded assembly 190 and the second pedal 170 including a U-shaped bracket 200, which can be threadedly engaged with the threaded assembly 190 to operably connect the second pedal arm 172 to the lead screw 182. Therefore, rotation of the lead screw 182 (i.e., clockwise) causes the U-shaped bracket 200 to move axially along the threaded assembly 190 of the lead screw 182 to move the second pedal 170 from a first position close to the first pedal 160 (e.g., as...). Figure 3(As depicted) carried to a second position further away from the first pedal 160 than the first position (e.g., as... Figure 5 (As depicted). On the other hand, rotation of the lead screw 182 in the opposite direction (i.e., counterclockwise) can necessarily move the second pedal 170 from the second position back to the first position. The first position of the second pedal 170 may correspond to the first state of the pedal assembly 140, and the second position of the second pedal 170 may correspond to the second state of the pedal assembly 140.

[0043] The U-shaped bracket 200 also operably connects the second pedal arm 172 to the brake assembly 110. The brake assembly 110 may include a master cylinder, and typically, the second pedal 170 is operably connected to the master cylinder via a pushrod. In response to the actuation of the second pedal 170, the pushrod pushes a piston inside the master cylinder, which forces brake fluid through brake fluid lines to the brake calipers located at the wheels to apply a stopping force to the wheels. However, in Figures 3 to 7 The described embodiments and as in Figure 4 and Figure 6 As best seen in the diagram, the brake assembly 110 may include a small piston 210, a partial cylinder 220, and a first fluid line 230. The second pedal 170 is operably coupled to the small piston 210 via a pushrod, rather than directly to the master cylinder via a pushrod. The small piston 210 is operably coupled to the second pedal 170 and to the partial cylinder 220 via a U-shaped bracket 200. The partial cylinder 220 operably connects the small piston 210 to the first fluid line 230, which fluidly connects the partial cylinder 220 to the master cylinder. Thus, in response to actuation of the second pedal 170, the pushrod can push the small piston 210, which increases the fluid pressure in the first fluid line 230 leading to the master cylinder via the partial cylinder 220. The master cylinder can then force brake fluid from there through the brake fluid line to the brake calipers located at the wheels to apply stopping force to the wheels.

[0044] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the small piston 210 and the partial cylinder 220 are each operably connected to the U-shaped bracket 200. Therefore, the small piston 210 and the partial cylinder 220 can be carried by the U-shaped bracket 200 from a first position to a second position and any position in between. Since the first fluid line 230 can be a flexible, operable connection between the second pedal 170 and the master cylinder, the first fluid line 230 allows the second pedal 170 to move between the first and second positions without adjusting any operable connection between the pedal assembly 140 and the brake assembly 110. For example, if the second pedal 170 were directly operably connected to the master cylinder via a pushrod, the second pedal 170 would not be able to be axially translated from the first position to the second position without moving the master cylinder or adjusting the pushrod. Instead, according to... Figures 3 to 7In the illustrated example embodiment, the small piston 210 and the partial cylinder 220 can be carried by the U-shaped bracket 200 to any location where the second pedal 170 can be moved.

[0045] In some cases, the threaded assembly 190 of the lead screw 182 may extend the entire length of the lead screw 182 from the first end to the second end. In an example embodiment, the threaded assembly 190 may extend more than half the length of the lead screw 182, but less than the entire length. In still other cases, such as those described herein, the threaded assembly 190 may extend less than half the length of the lead screw 182. In some cases, the threaded assembly 190 may not extend to either the first or second end of the lead screw 182, but may be provided along the middle portion of the lead screw 182. The length of the threaded assembly 190 of the lead screw 182 may depend on the size of the footrest space 150 in which the lead screw 182 may be disposed, and the desired first and second positions of the second pedal 170.

[0046] exist Figures 8 to 29 In the depicted embodiments, the pedal assembly 140 may include a first actuation assembly operably coupled to a powertrain 120 of the vehicle 100 and a second actuation assembly operably coupled to a braking assembly 110 of the vehicle 100. In an example embodiment, the first actuation assembly may include at least a first pedal 160, and the second actuation assembly may include at least a second pedal 170. The first actuation assembly may also include a first engagement portion having a first surface area, and the second actuation assembly may include a second engagement portion having a second surface area. In an example embodiment, the first engagement portion may be a first pedal pad 164, and the second engagement portion may be a second pedal pad 174. In some cases, the second actuation assembly may be configured in a first state and a second state of the pedal assembly 140. In an example embodiment, the second surface area may be larger in the second state than in the first state.

[0047] Figures 8 to 15 Various views of a pedal assembly 140 according to an example embodiment are shown. In some example embodiments, the second pedal pad 174 may include a base portion 240 and a pivot portion 250. The base portion 240 may be fixedly and operably coupled to the second pedal arm 172, and the pivot portion 250 may be rotatably and operably coupled to the base portion 240. In this respect, the second pedal pad 174 may be as follows: Figures 8 to 11 The closed position shown is similar to... Figures 12 to 15The pivot portion 250 can rotate between the open and closed positions shown. The pivot portion 250 can rotate relative to the base portion 240 between the closed and open positions. In the closed position, the pivot portion 250 can be positioned on top of the base portion 240, and therefore, the operator 130's right foot can contact the pivot portion 250 in response to actuation of the second pedal 170. On the other hand, in the open position, the pivot portion 250 can be positioned in the same plane as the base portion 240, and therefore, the operator 130 can access the second pedal 170 by using the left foot brake. Thus, the closed position can correspond to a first state of the pedal assembly 140, and the open position can correspond to a second state of the pedal assembly 140.

[0048] In some cases, the pivot portion 250 may have the same shape and area as the base portion 240. Therefore, in the closed position, the periphery of the base portion 240 may be aligned with the periphery of the pivot portion 250 without any overlap. Thus, the actuable surface area of ​​the second pedal pad 174 in the open position may be approximately twice the actuable surface area of ​​the second pedal pad 174 in the closed position. According to an example embodiment, the pivot portion 250 may include textured patterns on a first surface (252) and a second surface (254) disposed on opposite sides of the pivot portion 250. In this respect, in the closed position, the first surface 252 of the pivot portion 250 may be exposed and facing the operator 130, and the second surface 254 of the pivot portion 250 may contact the base portion 240. Conversely, in the open position, the first surface 252 may face away from the operator 130, and the second surface 254 may face the operator 130 together with a third surface 242 disposed at the base portion 240. Therefore, the first surface 252, the second surface 254 and the third surface 242 may each include a textured pattern to provide better grip to the second pedal pad 174 during actuation of the operator 130, depending on the specific configuration of the pedal assembly 140.

[0049] exist Figure 10 and Figure 11As best shown, the second pedal pad 174 may further include a hinge 260, via which the pivot portion 250 is rotatably and operably connected to the base portion 240. The hinge 260 may define a first pivot axis 270, which may be disposed parallel to the short side edge of the second pedal pad 174. When the second pedal pad 174 is in the closed position, the hinge 260 may be located at the distal edge of the second pedal pad 174 from the first pedal 160. In this respect, in the closed position, the hinge 260 may be located distal to the first pedal 160 of the second pedal pad 174, but in the open position, the hinge 260 may be located approximately at the center of the second pedal pad 174 between the pivot portion 250 and the base portion 240. Therefore, when changing from the closed position to the open position, the pivot portion 250 may rotate away from the first pedal 160. In other words, in the open position, the second pedal pad 174 can extend away from the first pedal 160 and closer to the operator 130's left foot.

[0050] In an example embodiment, hinge 260 may include a first fastener 280 coaxially / axially aligned with the first pivot axis 270. The first fastener 280 is threadedly operably coupled to hinge 260 to lock and unlock pivot portion 250 as needed. In this respect, with the second pedal pad 174 in the closed position, tightening the first fastener 280 into hinge 260 locks the second pedal pad 174 in the closed position, and thus locks it in a first state. Therefore, to rotate pivot portion 250 to the open position, the first fastener 280 must first be loosened from hinge 260 to unlock pivot portion 250. With the first fastener 280 loosened, pivot portion 250 can rotate freely about the first pivot axis 270. In response to entering the open position, the first fastener 280 can be tightened again into hinge 260 to lock the second pedal pad 174 in the open position, and thus lock it in a second state. Therefore, the pivot portion 250 is rotatable relative to the base portion 240 in response to loosening the first fastener 280, and the pivot portion 250 is fixed relative to the base portion 240 in response to tightening the first fastener 280. Thus, the first fastener 280 prevents the second pedal pad 174 from unintentionally rotating between the open and closed states. In some cases, such as those described herein, the hinge 260 may also include a second fastener 290. In such cases, the second fastener 290 may be located at the end of the hinge 260 opposite to the first fastener 280, but may also be coaxially / axially aligned with the first pivot axis 270. When the hinge 260 includes both the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290), the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290) perform the same functions outlined above, but as a set. Therefore, in order to unlock the pivot portion 250, it may be necessary to loosen both the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290), and in order to lock / secure the pivot portion 250, it may be necessary to tighten both the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290).

[0051] In some example embodiments, the first fastener 280 and / or the second fastener 290 may include the same drive pattern as several other accessory fasteners used on the vehicle 100. In this respect, the operator 130 may only need to have a single drive tool (e.g., screwdriver, hex wrench, socket wrench, etc.) to drive the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290) in addition to several other accessory fasteners. This allows the operator 130 to efficiently equip the vehicle 100 for certain operating scenarios, such as off-road driving. For example, before starting off-road driving, the operator 130 may equip off-road accessories that may not be used for road driving, such as visibility equipment. Using the same tool that the operator uses to equip off-road accessories, the operator 130 can twist the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290) to change the pedal assembly 140 from a first state to a second state to accommodate left-foot braking. In some cases, the drive pattern of the first fastener (280) and the second fastener (290) can be a triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, cross, X, plum blossom, star, flat head, cross head, or any other shape capable of transmitting torque.

[0052] exist Figures 8 to 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation assembly may be a first pedal 160, and the second actuation assembly may be a second pedal 170. A first engagement portion having a first surface area may be a first pedal pad 164, and a second engagement portion may be a second pedal pad 174. In the example embodiment, when the pedal assembly 140 is in a first state, the second surface area may be defined as the surface area of ​​the first surface 252 of the pivot portion 250, and when the pedal assembly 140 is in a second state, it is defined as the combined surface area of ​​the second surface (254) and the third surface (242).

[0053] Figures 16 to 21 Various views of a pedal assembly 140 according to an example embodiment are shown. Figures 16 to 21 In the illustrated example embodiment, the pedal assembly 140 may further include a third pedal 300. The third pedal 300 may be located on the side of the second pedal 170 opposite to the first pedal 160, and may also be operatively coupled to the brake assembly 110 of the vehicle 100. In this respect, the third pedal 300 may perform the same actions as the second pedal 170 in controlling the vehicle 100. That is, actuating the third pedal 300 may also apply a stopping force at the wheels via the brake assembly 110 to slow and / or stop the vehicle 100. In some cases, the third pedal 300 may be positioned closer to the second sidewall 154 than the first sidewall 152, and closer to the second sidewall 154 than the first pedal 160. This approximate position of the third pedal 300 compared to the second pedal 170 may be a more desirable position for actuation with the left foot of the operator 130.

[0054] Similar to the first pedal arm (162) and the second pedal arm (172), and the first pedal pad (164) and the second pedal pad (174), the third pedal 300 may include a third pedal arm 310 and a third pedal pad 320. In this respect, the third pedal 300 can be actuated by an operator 130 by receiving a force from the operator 130 at the third pedal pad 320. The third pedal 300 can be operatively coupled to the master cylinder via a push rod. In response to the actuation of the third pedal 300, the third pedal arm 310 can apply a force to the push rod, which can push a piston inside the master cylinder and force brake fluid through brake fluid lines to the brake calipers located at the wheels to apply a stopping force to the wheels. In some cases, the third pedal 300 can be operatively coupled to the brake assembly 110 independently of the second pedal 170. Therefore, the third pedal 300 can be actuated to apply a stopping force to the wheels without needing to move the second pedal 170 at all. In other example embodiments, the third pedal 300 may be operatively coupled to the brake assembly 110 via the second pedal 170. Thus, in response to the third pedal 300 being actuated to apply a stopping force to the wheels, the second pedal 170 may move synchronously with the third pedal 300 to apply a stopping force via the brake assembly 110.

[0055] Unlike the first pedal 160 and the second pedal 170, the third pedal 300 can be in the unfolded position. Figures 16 to 18 (shown in the image) and the stowed position ( Figures 19 to 21 (As shown in the diagram) Rotation between. In this respect, the third pedal arm 310 may include a lower arm portion 312 operably coupled to the third pedal pad 320, an upper arm portion 314 operably coupled to the brake assembly 110, and a steering knuckle joint 316 rotatably and operably coupled to the upper arm portion 314. Figure 18 and Figure 21 As best seen in the diagram, the steering knuckle joint 316 may resemble a U-shaped joint, wherein the lower arm portion 312 may include a U-shaped clamp, and the upper arm portion 314 may be a shank disposed between the legs of the U-shaped clamp. The upper arm portion 314 (i.e., the shank in the description of the U-shaped joint) may be operably coupled to the U-shaped clamp of the lower arm portion 312 via a pin, and the pin may define a second pivot axis 318 of the steering knuckle joint 316. Thus, the lower arm portion 312 may rotate between an extended position and a retracted position via the steering knuckle joint 316 relative to the upper arm portion 314 and about the second pivot axis 318.

[0056] In some cases, the retracted position may correspond to the first state, and the extended position may correspond to the second state. Therefore, in an example embodiment, the third pedal 300 may operate in place of the second pedal 170 to provide operational input to the brake assembly 110 when in the second state. In some cases, the rotatable design of the third pedal 300 may allow the operator 130 to release space in the footrest space 150 during normal or single-foot operation of the pedal assembly 140 in the first state. In this regard, the third pedal 300 may be folded upwards to a retracted position, in which the third pedal 300 may substantially reside above the footrest space 150 and not obstruct the operator 130 from unintentional actuation of the third pedal 300. On the other hand, before entering a specific operating scenario (such as off-road driving), the operator 130 may fold the third pedal 300 downwards to an extended position to enable two-foot operation of the pedal assembly 140 in the second state. In the retracted position, the lower arm portion 312 may be disposed close to the upper arm portion 314 and therein may be positioned above the footrest space 150 of the pedal assembly 140. Conversely, in the unfolded position, the lower arm portion 312 may be located on the distal side of the upper arm portion 314 and may extend downward into the footrest space 150.

[0057] In an example embodiment, the upper arm portion 314 may include a rotation stop 330. In this respect, in the deployed position, the rotation stop 330 may contact the steering knuckle joint 316 to define the angular orientation of the lower arm portion 312. Thus, the rotation stop 330 allows the lower arm portion 312 and the upper arm portion 314 to move together in response to receiving an input force from the operator 130 on the third pedal pad 320. In this respect, when the third pedal 300 is rotated from the retracted position to the deployed position, the lower arm portion 312 may not rotate beyond a predetermined maximum angle (α) that may be defined by the rotation stop 330. In some cases, the rotation stop 330 may be an extension or protrusion of the upper arm portion 314, which may be configured to contact the U-shaped clamp of the steering knuckle joint 316 in response to the third pedal 300 being rotated from the retracted position to the deployed position. In some cases, the third pedal 300 may include a locking assembly that, when locked, prevents the third pedal 300 from changing between a retracted and extended position, and when unlocked, allows the third pedal 300 to change between an extended and retracted position. In example embodiments, the locking assembly may rely on a manual release mechanism, an electronic release mechanism, a locking pin, friction, adhesive, a key, a fastener, a biasing member, or any other type of mechanism or component to prevent unintentional change between the retracted and extended positions.

[0058] exist Figures 16 to 21In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation assembly may be a first pedal 160, and the second actuation assembly may include both a second pedal 170 and a third pedal 300. A first engagement portion having a first surface area may be a first pedal pad 164, and a second engagement portion may include both a second pedal pad 174 and a third pedal pad 320. In the example embodiment, when the pedal assembly 140 is in a first state, the second surface area may be defined as the surface area of ​​the second pedal pad 174, and when the pedal assembly 140 is in a second state, it is defined as the combined surface area of ​​the second pedal pad (174) and the third pedal pad (320).

[0059] Figures 22 to 29 Various views of a pedal assembly 140 according to an example embodiment are shown. Figures 22 to 29 In the illustrated example embodiment, the pedal pad attachment 340 may be removably and operably attached to the second pedal pad 174. In some cases, the pedal pad attachment 340 may visually resemble the second pedal pad 174, but may include a larger area than the second pedal pad 174. In this respect, the pedal pad attachment 340 may be operably attached to the second pedal pad 174, but may also extend beyond the periphery of the second pedal pad 174 and extend toward the second sidewall 154 of the footrest space 150. In other words, the pedal pad attachment 340 can increase the surface area through which the operator 130 can actuate the second pedal 170 by extending toward the second sidewall 154 of the footrest space 150. This orientation of the pedal pad attachment 340 provides the operator 130 with a more desirable alternative to actuating the second pedal 170 via the left foot brake. Therefore, the first state of the pedal assembly 140 may correspond to the pedal pad attachment 340 being removed from the second pedal pad 174, and the second state of the pedal assembly 140 may correspond to the pedal pad attachment 340 being operatively attached to the second pedal pad 174.

[0060] exist Figure 23 , Figure 25 and Figure 28As best shown, the second pedal pad 174 may have a first length (L1) and a first width (W1), and the pedal pad attachment 340 may have a second length (L2) and a second width (W2). In some cases, the first width (W1) of the second pedal pad 174 may be the same as the second width (W2) of the pedal pad attachment 340. Alternatively, the first length (L1) of the second pedal pad 174 may be less than the second length (L2) of the pedal pad attachment 340. In this respect, the pedal pad attachment 340 may extend beyond the second pedal pad 174 only above the distal edge of the second pedal pad 174 from the first pedal 160. In an example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be approximately twice the length of the first length (L1). However, it should be understood that in some other embodiments, the first width (W1), the second width (W2), the first length (L1), and the second length (L2) may have different sizes, relative sizes, and size ratios between them. For example, in some cases, the second width (W2) may be greater than the first width (W1). In an example embodiment, the second width (W2) may be approximately 1.5 times larger than the first width (W1). In some other cases, the second width (W2) may be approximately 2 times larger than the first width (W1). In an example embodiment, the second width (W2) may be smaller than the first width (W1). In some cases, the second length (L2) may be approximately 3 times longer than the first length (L1). In any case, the second length (L2) may be longer than the first length (L1) by a sufficient amount to enhance the operator 130's experience using the left-foot brake.

[0061] In some example embodiments, the pedal pad attachment 340 may be operatively coupled to the second pedal pad 174 via a coupling assembly 350. The coupling assembly 350 may include a first plurality of receiving openings 360 disposed at the second pedal pad 174 and a second plurality of receiving openings 370 disposed at the pedal pad attachment 340. Both the first plurality of receiving openings (360) and the second plurality of receiving openings (370) may be patterned such that each individual opening in the first plurality of receiving openings 360 is alignable with a corresponding individual opening in the second plurality of receiving openings 370 in response to operative coupling of the pedal pad attachment 340 to the second pedal pad 174. In some cases, each individual opening in the first plurality of receiving openings (360) and the second plurality of receiving openings (370) may also be threaded. In this respect, the first plurality of receiving ports 360 can be operatively connected to the second plurality of receiving ports 370 via a plurality of fasteners 380, which can extend through the second plurality of receiving ports 370 and into the first plurality of receiving ports 360. Thus, when the pedal pad attachment 340 is operatively connected to the second pedal pad 174, the plurality of fasteners 380 can be threadedly engaged with both the first plurality of receiving ports (360) and the second plurality of receiving ports (370).

[0062] In some cases, multiple fasteners 380 may be operatively coupled to the coupling assembly 350 in a unidirectional orientation. In this respect, the pedal pad attachment 340 may be operatively coupled to the second pedal pad 174 only in the appropriate orientation for left-foot braking. The pedal pad attachment 340 may not be operatively coupled to the second pedal pad 174 in any other orientation besides the aforementioned unidirectional orientation. Therefore, the pedal pad attachment 340 may not interfere with the operation of the first pedal 160 at all. In other words, the pedal pad attachment 340 may be operatively coupled to the second pedal pad 174 in a mistake-proof manner via the coupling assembly 350 and the multiple fasteners 380, such that the pedal pad attachment 340 may extend away from the first pedal 160 in the said unidirectional orientation. In the example embodiment depicted herein, the coupling assembly 350 may include a total of six receiving openings (of which three are provided in each of the first plurality of receiving openings (360) and the second plurality of receiving openings (370)) and a total of three fasteners of the multiple fasteners 380. Therefore, three of the multiple fasteners 380 can be inserted into three pairs of receiving holes in the first plurality of receiving holes (360) and the second plurality of receiving holes (370). In this case, the three pairs of receiving holes in the first plurality of receiving holes (360) and the second plurality of receiving holes (370) can be arranged in a triangular pattern. However, it should be understood that more or fewer receiving holes and corresponding fasteners can be used, and they can be arranged in any kind of pattern, depending on how many fasteners can be used. In some cases, the fasteners constituting the multiple fasteners 380 can also be the same as those referenced above. Figures 8 to 15 The same type of fasteners as described. Therefore, the pedal pad attachment 340 can be secured to the second pedal pad 174 using the same drive tools as other attachments around the vehicle 100.

[0063] exist Figures 22 to 29 In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation assembly may be a first pedal 160, and the second actuation assembly may be a second pedal 170. A first engagement portion having a first surface area may be a first pedal pad 164, and a second engagement portion may be a second pedal pad 174. In the example embodiment, when the pedal assembly 140 is in a first state, the second surface area may be defined as the surface area of ​​the second pedal pad 174 without the pedal pad attachment 340, and when the pedal assembly 140 is in a second state, it is defined as the surface area of ​​the pedal pad attachment 340.

[0064] Therefore, a pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle can be provided. The pedal assembly may include: a first pedal, which may include a first pedal arm and a first pedal pad and is operatively coupled to the vehicle's powertrain; and a second pedal, which may include a second pedal arm and a second pedal pad and is operatively coupled to the vehicle's braking assembly. The second pedal arm may be operatively coupled to a linear actuator assembly. The linear actuator assembly allows the second pedal to be laterally displaced between a first position and a second position, in which the second pedal is positioned close to the first pedal, and in the second position, in which the second pedal is positioned further away from the first pedal than in the first position.

[0065] Some embodiments of the pedal assembly may include additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., to achieve further objectives or enhance the performance of the pedal assembly. These additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., can be added in any combination of each other. The following is a list of various additional features, modifications, and extensions, which can be added individually or in any combination of each other. For example, the linear actuator assembly may include: a lead screw extending between a first sidewall and a second sidewall in which a footrest space of the pedal assembly is disposed; a U-shaped bracket operatively connecting the second pedal arm to the brake assembly; and a motor operatively connected to the lead screw to rotate the lead screw. In some cases, the lead screw may include a threaded assembly, and the U-shaped bracket may threadedly engage with the threaded assembly. In an example embodiment, in response to the motor rotating the lead screw, the U-shaped bracket may shift along the lead screw and carry the second pedal between a first position and a second position. In some cases, the braking assembly may include a piston, a cylinder, and a fluid line operably connected to the second pedal via the U-shaped bracket. In an example embodiment, in response to the motor rotating the lead screw, the U-shaped bracket may carry the piston, the cylinder, and the fluid line along with the second pedal between a first position and a second position. In some cases, in the first position, the U-shaped bracket may be located at a first end of the threaded assembly, and in the second position, the U-shaped bracket may be located at a second end of the threaded assembly.

[0066] According to another example embodiment, a pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle can therefore be provided. The pedal assembly may include a first actuation assembly operably coupled to a powertrain of the vehicle and a second actuation assembly operably coupled to a braking assembly of the vehicle. The first actuation assembly may include a first engagement portion having a first surface area. The second actuation assembly may include a second engagement portion having a second surface area. The second actuation assembly may be configured in a first state and a second state. The second surface area may be larger in the second state than in the first state.

[0067] Some embodiments of the pedal assembly may include additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., to achieve further objectives or enhance the performance of the pedal assembly. These additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., can be added in any combination of each other. The following is a list of various additional features, modifications, and extensions, which can be added individually or in any combination of each other. For example, the first actuation assembly may include a first pedal, and the first engagement portion may include a first pedal pad operably coupled to the first pedal. In some cases, the second actuation assembly may include a second pedal, and the second engagement portion may include a second pedal pad operably coupled to the second pedal. In an example embodiment, the second pedal pad may include a pivot portion and a base portion, the pivot portion being rotatably and operably coupled to the base portion. In some cases, the pivot portion is rotatable relative to the base portion between a closed position and an open position. In an example embodiment, the closed position may correspond to the first state, and the open position may correspond to the second state. In some cases, the pivot portion may have the same shape and area as the base portion. In an example embodiment, the pivoting portion may be operatively coupled to the base portion at a hinge located at the distal edge of the second pedal pad from the first pedal. In some cases, the hinge may include a fastener axially aligned along a first pivot axis extending parallel to the edge of the second pedal pad. In an example embodiment, the pivoting portion may be rotatable relative to the base portion in response to releasing the fastener. In some cases, the pivoting portion may be fixed relative to the base portion in response to tightening the fastener. In an example embodiment, the second actuation assembly may further include a third pedal, and the second engagement portion may further include a third pedal pad operatively coupled to the third pedal. In some cases, the second engagement portion may include the second pedal pad and the third pedal pad. In an example embodiment, the third pedal may be located on the side of the second pedal opposite to the first pedal and operatively coupled to the braking assembly of the vehicle. In some cases, the third pedal may rotate between an extended position and a retracted position. In an example embodiment, the retracted position may correspond to the first state, and the extended position may correspond to the second state. In some cases, the third pedal may operate in place of the second pedal to provide the operational input to the braking assembly when in the second state. In an example embodiment, the third pedal may further include a third pedal arm, which may include a lower arm portion operably coupled to the third pedal pad, an upper arm portion operably coupled to the braking assembly, and a steering knuckle joint that rotatably and operably couples the lower arm portion to the upper arm portion.In some cases, the lower arm portion is rotatable about the steering knuckle joint between the deployed position and the retracted position. In some cases, in the retracted position, the lower arm portion may be positioned close to the upper arm portion and above the footrest space of the pedal assembly. In an example embodiment, in the deployed position, the lower arm portion may extend away from the upper arm portion into the footrest space. In some cases, the upper arm portion may include a rotation stop that may contact the lower arm portion in the deployed position. In an example embodiment, the rotation stop in the deployed position may define an angular orientation of the lower arm portion and allow the lower arm portion and the upper arm portion to move together in response to receiving an input force. In some cases, the first actuation assembly may include a first pedal, and the first engagement portion may include a first pedal pad operably coupled to the first pedal. In an example embodiment, the second actuation assembly may include a second pedal, and the second engagement portion may include a second pedal pad operably coupled to the second pedal. In some cases, a pedal pad attachment may be removably operably coupled to the second pedal pad. In an example embodiment, the first state may correspond to the removal of the pedal pad attachment from the second pedal pad. In some cases, the second state may correspond to the pedal pad attachment being operatively attached to the second pedal pad. In an example embodiment, the pedal assembly may include a coupling assembly for operatively attaching the pedal pad attachment to the second pedal pad, the coupling assembly including a first plurality of receiving openings that may be disposed at the second pedal pad and a second plurality of receiving openings that may be disposed at the pedal pad attachment. In some cases, the first plurality of receiving openings may be operatively attached to the second plurality of receiving openings in a unidirectional orientation via a plurality of fasteners. In an example embodiment, the pedal pad attachment may extend away from the first pedal in the unidirectional orientation.

[0068] Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will conceive of many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein, benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, while exemplary embodiments have been described in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions in the foregoing description and associated drawings, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above are also contemplated, for example, as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Where advantages, benefits, or solutions are described herein, it should be understood that such advantages, benefits, and / or solutions may apply to some exemplary embodiments but not necessarily to all exemplary embodiments. Therefore, any advantages, benefits, or solutions described herein should not be considered critical, essential, or necessary for all embodiments or the embodiments claimed herein. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

[0069] The operations described herein should always be performed in accordance with the user manual and security guidelines.

[0070] According to the present invention, a pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle is provided, the pedal assembly having: a first pedal operably coupled to the powertrain of the vehicle, the first pedal including a first pedal arm and a first pedal pad; and a second pedal operably coupled to a braking assembly of the vehicle, the second pedal including a second pedal arm and a second pedal pad, wherein the second pedal arm is operably coupled to a linear actuator assembly, and wherein the linear actuator assembly causes the second pedal to be laterally displaced between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the second pedal is disposed close to the first pedal, and in the second position the second pedal is disposed further away from the first pedal than in the first position.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the linear actuator assembly includes: a lead screw extending between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of a footrest space of the pedal assembly; a U-shaped bracket operably connecting a second pedal arm to the brake assembly; and a motor operably connected to the lead screw to rotate the lead screw.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the lead screw includes a threaded assembly, and the U-shaped bracket is threadedly engaged with the threaded assembly.

[0073] According to an embodiment, in response to the motor causing the lead screw to rotate, the U-shaped bracket shifts along the lead screw and carries the second pedal between the first position and the second position.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the braking assembly includes a piston, a cylinder, and a fluid line operably connected to the second pedal via the U-shaped bracket, wherein, in response to the motor causing the lead screw to rotate, the U-shaped bracket carries the piston, the cylinder, and the fluid line together with the second pedal between the first position and the second position.

[0075] According to an embodiment, in the first position, the U-shaped bracket is disposed at the first end of the threaded assembly, and in the second position, the U-shaped bracket is disposed at the second end of the threaded assembly.

[0076] According to the present invention, a pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle is provided, the pedal assembly having: a first actuation assembly operably coupled to the powertrain of the vehicle; and a second actuation assembly operably coupled to a braking assembly of the vehicle, wherein the first actuation assembly includes a first engagement portion having a first surface area, wherein the second actuation assembly includes a second engagement portion having a second surface area, wherein the second actuation assembly is configurable in the first state and the second state, and wherein the surface area of ​​the second state is greater than the surface area of ​​the first state.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the first actuation assembly includes a first pedal, and the first engagement portion includes a first pedal pad operably coupled to the first pedal, and wherein the second actuation assembly includes a second pedal, and the second engagement portion includes a second pedal pad operably coupled to the second pedal.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the second pedal pad includes a pivot portion and a base portion, wherein the pivot portion is rotatably and operably coupled to the base portion, wherein the pivot portion is rotatable relative to the base portion between a closed position and an open position, and wherein the closed position corresponds to the first state and the open position corresponds to the second state.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the pivot portion has the same shape and the same area as the base portion.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the pivot portion is operatively connected to the base portion at a hinge located at the distal edge of the second pedal pad from the first pedal, and wherein the hinge includes a fastener axially aligned along a first pivot axis extending parallel to the distal edge of the second pedal pad.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the pivoting portion is responsive to loosening the fastener and can rotate relative to the base portion, wherein the pivoting portion is responsive to tightening the fastener and fixed relative to the base portion.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the second actuation assembly further includes a third pedal, and the second engagement portion further includes a third pedal pad operably coupled to the third pedal, wherein the second engagement portion includes the second pedal pad and the third pedal pad, and wherein the third pedal is disposed on the side of the second pedal opposite to the first pedal and operably coupled to the braking assembly of the vehicle.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the third pedal is rotatable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein the retracted position corresponds to the first state and the extended position corresponds to the second state, and wherein the third pedal can operate in place of the second pedal to provide the operation input to the braking assembly when in the second state.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the third pedal further includes a third pedal arm, the third pedal arm comprising: a lower arm portion operably connected to the third pedal pad; an upper arm portion operably connected to the brake assembly; and a steering knuckle joint for rotatably and operably connecting the lower arm portion to the upper arm portion.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the lower arm portion is rotatable about the steering knuckle joint between the extended position and the retracted position, wherein in the retracted position, the lower arm portion is disposed close to the upper arm portion and above the footrest space of the pedal assembly, and wherein in the extended position, the lower arm portion extends away from the upper arm portion into the footrest space.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the upper arm portion includes a rotation stop that contacts the lower arm portion in the extended position, wherein the rotation stop defines an angular orientation of the lower arm portion in the extended position and enables the lower arm portion and the upper arm portion to move together in response to receiving an input force.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the first actuation assembly includes a first pedal, and the first engagement portion includes a first pedal pad operably coupled to the first pedal, wherein the second actuation assembly includes a second pedal, and the second engagement portion includes a second pedal pad operably coupled to the second pedal, and wherein a pedal pad attachment is removably operably coupled to the second pedal pad.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the first state corresponds to the removal of the pedal pad attachment from the second pedal pad, and the second state corresponds to the pedal pad attachment being operatively attached to the second pedal pad.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the pedal assembly includes a coupling assembly for operatively coupling the pedal pad attachment to the second pedal pad, the coupling assembly including: a first plurality of receiving openings disposed at the second pedal pad; and a second plurality of receiving openings disposed at the pedal pad attachment, wherein the first plurality of receiving openings are operatively coupled to the second plurality of receiving openings in a unidirectional orientation via a plurality of fasteners, and wherein the pedal pad attachment extends away from the first pedal in the unidirectional orientation.

Claims

1. A pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle, the pedal assembly comprising: A first pedal, operably connected to the vehicle's powertrain, the first pedal including a first pedal arm and a first pedal pad; as well as A second pedal, operably connected to the vehicle's braking assembly, includes a second pedal arm and a second pedal pad. The second pedal arm is operably connected to the linear actuator assembly, and The linear actuator assembly causes the second pedal to be laterally displaced between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the second pedal is positioned close to the first pedal and in the second position the second pedal is positioned further away from the first pedal than in the first position.

2. The pedal assembly of claim 1, wherein the linear actuator assembly comprises: A guide screw extends between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the footrest space of the pedal assembly. A U-shaped bracket, wherein the second pedal arm is operably connected to the brake assembly, and A motor operatively coupled to the lead screw to rotate the lead screw.

3. The pedal assembly of claim 2, wherein the lead screw includes a threaded assembly, and the U-shaped bracket is threadedly engaged with the threaded assembly.

4. The pedal assembly of claim 3, wherein in response to the motor causing the lead screw to rotate, the U-shaped bracket shifts along the lead screw and carries the second pedal between the first position and the second position.

5. The pedal assembly of claim 4, wherein the brake assembly includes a piston, a cylinder, and a fluid line operably connected to the second pedal via the U-shaped bracket, and In response to the motor causing the lead screw to rotate, the U-shaped bracket, along with the second pedal, carries the piston, the cylinder, and the fluid lines between the first and second positions. In the first position, the U-shaped bracket is disposed at the first end of the threaded assembly, and in the second position, the U-shaped bracket is disposed at the second end of the threaded assembly.

6. A pedal assembly for providing operational input to a vehicle, the pedal assembly comprising: A first actuation assembly, the first actuation assembly being operatively coupled to the vehicle's powertrain; as well as A second actuation assembly, operatively coupled to the vehicle's braking assembly, The first actuation assembly includes a first engagement portion having a first surface area. The second actuation assembly includes a second engagement portion having a second surface area. The second actuation assembly can be configured in a first state and a second state, and The surface area of ​​the second state is greater than that of the first state.

7. The pedal assembly of claim 6, wherein the first actuation assembly includes a first pedal, and the first engagement portion includes a first pedal pad operably coupled to the first pedal, and The second actuation assembly includes a second pedal, and the second engagement portion includes a second pedal pad operably coupled to the second pedal.

8. The pedal assembly of claim 7, wherein the second pedal pad includes a pivot portion and a base portion. The pivot portion is rotatably and operably coupled to the base portion. The pivoting portion is rotatable relative to the base portion between a closed position and an open position, and The closed position corresponds to the first state, and the open position corresponds to the second state.

9. The pedal assembly of claim 8, wherein the pivoting portion has the same shape and the same area as the base portion, or The pivot portion is operably connected to the base portion at a hinge, the hinge being located at the distal edge of the second pedal pad from the first pedal, and The hinge includes a fastener that is axially aligned along a first pivot axis extending parallel to the distal edge of the second pedal pad.

10. The pedal assembly of claim 9, wherein the pivoting portion is responsive to releasing the fastener and rotates relative to the base portion, and The pivot portion is fixed relative to the base portion in response to tightening the fastener.

11. The pedal assembly of claim 7, wherein the second actuation assembly further comprises a third pedal, and the second engagement portion further comprises a third pedal pad operably coupled to the third pedal. The second joint portion includes the second pedal pad and the third pedal pad, and The third pedal is disposed on the side of the second pedal opposite to the first pedal and is operatively connected to the braking assembly of the vehicle.

12. The pedal assembly of claim 11, wherein the third pedal is rotatable between an extended position and a retracted position. The collapsed position corresponds to the first state, and the expanded position corresponds to the second state. The third pedal can be operated in place of the second pedal to provide the operation input to the braking assembly when in the second state, or The third pedal further includes a third pedal arm, the third pedal arm comprising: The lower arm portion is operatively connected to the third pedal pad; The upper arm portion is operatively connected to the braking assembly; as well as A steering knuckle joint that rotatably and operably connects the lower arm portion to the upper arm portion.

13. The pedal assembly of claim 12, wherein the lower arm portion is rotatable about the steering knuckle joint between the extended position and the retracted position. In the retracted position, the lower arm portion is positioned close to the upper arm portion and is located above the footrest space of the pedal assembly. In the unfolded position, the lower arm portion extends away from the upper arm portion into the footrest space, or The upper arm portion includes a rotation stop that contacts the lower arm portion in the extended position, and The rotation stop defines the angular orientation of the lower arm portion in the unfolded position and enables the lower arm portion and the upper arm portion to move together in response to receiving an input force.

14. The pedal assembly of claim 6, wherein the first actuation assembly includes a first pedal, and the first engagement portion includes a first pedal pad operably coupled to the first pedal. The second actuation assembly includes a second pedal, and the second engagement portion includes a second pedal pad operably coupled to the second pedal. The pedal pad attachment is removably and operably attached to the second pedal pad.

15. The pedal assembly of claim 14, wherein the first state corresponds to the pedal pad attachment being removed from the second pedal pad, and The second state corresponds to the pedal pad attachment being operably connected to the second pedal pad, or The pedal assembly includes a coupling assembly for operably coupling the pedal pad attachment to the second pedal pad, the coupling assembly including: The first plurality of receiving openings are disposed at the second pedal pad; as well as The second plurality of receiving openings are disposed at the pedal pad attachment. The first plurality of receiving ports can be operably connected to the second plurality of receiving ports in a unidirectional orientation via a plurality of fasteners, and The pedal pad attachment extends away from the first pedal in the unidirectional orientation.

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