Pedal assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a pedal assembly (1) having: a housing (2); a pedal element (3) which is movably supported on the housing (2) and which can be moved between an initial position (S1) and a final position (S2); the invention relates to a housing (2) for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing (2), and a restoring assembly (4) having at least one elastic restoring element (5) and a base element (6), the base element (6) being formed separately from the housing (2) and being mounted, in particular fixed, in or on the housing (2) and being designed to receive the elastic restoring element (5). And wherein the restoring assembly (4) can be mounted in or on the housing (2), in particular in a non-destructive releasable manner, such that actuation of the pedal element (3) in the direction of the end position (S2) causes an elastic deformation of the restoring element (5).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a pedal assembly. Furthermore, the invention relates to a reset structure assembly for a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly is particularly suitable for use in a vehicle, such as for use as a gas pedal and / or brake pedal and / or clutch pedal. BACKGROUND

[0002] Brake pedals are particularly known from the prior art. These brake pedals mostly have a spring, usually a coil spring. This spring is compressed when the brake pedal is actuated. Through the design of the spring, the pedal characteristic felt by the driver of the vehicle when actuating the brake pedal can be set. If the brake pedal device is to be used for different vehicle types, the spring should always be matched to the respective vehicle-specific specifications.

[0003] From DE 20 2004 004 455 U1 a gas pedal for a vehicle is known, wherein between a base plate element and a gas pedal element a tension spring element is arranged, which is arranged on the base plate element by a spring holding element and on the gas pedal element by a further spring holding element.

[0004] From DE 20 2022 101 309 U1 a pedal device for a vehicle is known, wherein the pedal device has a housing, which has a first assembly opening for the lateral side of the pedal arm and a second assembly opening (from below) for the reset element, wherein the second assembly opening can be closed by a (catchable) cover.

[0005] DE 10 2013 213 430 A1 describes a pedal device for a vehicle, wherein the gas pedal element can be reset by a spring from an end position into an initial position. SUMMARY

[0006] The pedal assembly according to the invention allows an easy matching to different specifications, particularly in terms of pedal characteristics. Thus, the pedal assembly can be easily and cost-effectively matched to different use purposes. Here, it is particularly achieved that as many, particularly complex, subassemblies of the pedal assembly as possible can be used without adaptation for all application cases.

[0007] A pedal assembly has a housing and pedal elements or pedal arms. The pedal elements or pedal arms are movably supported on the housing and are movable between an initial position and an end position. The pedal elements or pedal arms are preferably designed for operation by the user's foot and, for this purpose, have a foot rest that the user can press on to operate the pedal assembly or pedal elements. For example, a pedal assembly is a vehicle's brake pedal assembly, through which the vehicle's driver operates the vehicle's brakes. Alternatively, a pedal assembly can also be, for example, a vehicle's accelerator pedal assembly or clutch pedal assembly, for operating the vehicle's drive power and / or clutch. "Accelerator pedal assembly" also refers to such a pedal assembly that allows drive and braking control to be achieved with a single, dedicated pedal, as is the case in electric vehicles, for example. Of course, pedal assemblies can also be configured for uses outside the vehicle domain.

[0008] The pedal assembly also includes a reset assembly. The reset assembly has at least one resilient, particularly reversible, reset element. Furthermore, the reset assembly has a base element. The reset assembly, particularly the reset element, is preferably used to move the pedal element to and / or hold it in the initial position. If the pedal element is moved out of the initial position, the reset assembly, particularly the reset element, is preferably configured to apply a reset force to the pedal element in the direction of the initial position. This reset force is, in particular, an elastic reset force generated from the elastic deformation of the reset element.

[0009] The base element of the reset mechanism assembly is constructed separately from the housing and is installed, particularly fixed, within or at a location within the housing. Especially in the manufactured pedal assembly, the housing can be distinguished from the base element. The base element is configured to receive a resilient reset element. Here, the reset mechanism assembly is installed in or at a location within the housing in a way that allows for easy detachment without damage, such that manipulation of the pedal element in the direction of the final position causes elastic deformation, particularly elastic reversible deformation, of the reset element. Therefore, it is preferable that the reset element elastically, particularly elastically reversibly, deforms when the pedal element moves out of its initial position. Thus, when the pedal element is outside its initial position, it is preferable that an elastic reset force always acts on the pedal element. Furthermore, the reset element can be pre-tensioned, so that the elastic reset force also acts on the pedal element in the initial position, and this reset force must be overcome for the pedal element to move. The pedal characteristics of the pedal assembly can be adjusted by the construction, type, or other characteristics of the resilient reset element.

[0010] For a pedal assembly, the housing is a costly component to manufacture. The proposed pedal assembly has the advantage of allowing the housing to be consistently constructed if different reset elements are to be used in different applications, as the base element of the reset structure assembly functions as a connector for the reset elements. If different pedal features are to be achieved, the same housing and pedal elements can always be used; only the reset structure assembly should be manufactured according to the desired features. Thus, the pedal assembly can be easily and cost-effectively manufactured and, additionally, easily and flexibly matched to different pre-defined specifications.

[0011] For example, it can be specified that at least one resilient reset element is constructed as a compression spring. This advantageously allows for particularly easy installation of the reset structure assembly, since the reset element does not need to be fixed to the housing and / or the support of the pedal element. Consequently, the housing can be manufactured particularly easily and stably.

[0012] For example, it can be specified that the housing has a hollow internal space in which the reset structure assembly can be installed or is installed. For example, it can be specified that the housing is substantially bag-shaped. For example, the housing can have only one mounting port for the reset structure assembly. The reset structure assembly, for example, can be arranged entirely or at least more than 90% of its volume within the internal space of the housing when installed in or within the pedal structure assembly. For example, it can be specified that it is installed substantially parallel to the direction in which the pedal arm of the pedal element extends from the housing. The pedal arm of the pedal element, for example, extending between the pedal and the support section of the pedal element, can, for example, pass through the mounting port in the installed state and move between an initial position and an end position within the mounting port for actuation. The mounting port, for example, can open towards the pedal, and it can be an opening at the front of the housing. It can, for example, open in a direction transverse to the rotation axis of the pedal element. The reset structure assembly, for example, can be arranged in or within the housing between the pedal and the support mechanism of the pedal element when viewed along the installation direction. The support of the pedal element can, for example, be located within the internal space.

[0013] A particular advantage is that the reset structure assembly can be pre-assembled, allowing it to be fully pre-assembled and installed in or at the housing. This facilitates particularly easy installation. Furthermore, it is advantageous to perform quality control on the reset structure assembly before installation into or at the housing. The reset structure assembly can, for example (viewed along the installation direction), be arranged or installed between the pedal and support section of the pedal element.

[0014] The housing is constructed as a closed structure with a few openings as possible, which advantageously results in particularly high stability with a small wall thickness. This high stability is particularly advantageous when the pedal assembly is used as a brake pedal assembly. This is because when operating the brake pedal, a significantly higher force (e.g., in the range of 100N to 600N or 200N to 400N) is typically encountered compared to that in the accelerator pedal assembly (e.g., a force between 10N and 60N or between 20N and 40N). The high housing stability achieved with a small wall thickness advantageously enables low-cost manufacturability while maintaining high safety for the user.

[0015] The base element can, for example, partially enclose the reset element. The reset element can, for example, be easily, cost-effectively, and without damage removed from or mounted on the base element, or arranged on the base element, without loosening or locking the end pin, threaded connection, etc.

[0016] The casing, for example, can be manufactured as a single piece or constructed as a whole, meaning it cannot be disassembled into its individual parts without damage. In other words, the walls of the casing, for example, cannot be separated from the casing or from each other without damage. It can, for example, be manufactured as an injection-molded part. It can, for example, be made primarily of plastic.

[0017] Within the scope of this specification, the concepts “having” and “including” are used synonymously unless otherwise specified.

[0018] The dependent claims describe preferred improvements of the invention.

[0019] The housing of the pedal assembly preferably has a base plate with at least one opening. The base element preferably has at least one protrusion corresponding to the opening in the base plate, the protrusion being shaped-locked with or capable of being coupled to the opening. In particular, the protrusion is shaped-locked with or capable of being arranged in the opening. Alternatively or supplementarily, the housing has a base plate with at least one base plate protrusion, wherein the base element has at least one base element opening corresponding to the base plate protrusion, the base element opening being shaped-locked with the base plate protrusion.

[0020] By means of a shape-locking coupling between a protrusion and an opening, or between a base plate protrusion and an opening of the base element, the base element is fixed in or within the housing, at least along one spatial direction or along two mutually orthogonal spatial directions. Furthermore, the reset force of the reset element, particularly as mentioned above, results in the protrusion being pressed into the opening, or the base plate protrusion being pressed into the housing opening. Specifically, achieved through the opening and the protrusion, or the base plate protrusion and the opening of the base element, the reset structure assembly cannot slide relative to the housing, especially not along a direction perpendicular to the force direction of the reset element.

[0021] This allows for easy and reliable securing of the repositioning structure assembly to the housing. Furthermore, it allows for particularly easy disassembly, for example, for maintenance or repair purposes.

[0022] Here, small protrusions and small openings, or base plate protrusions and base element openings, are sufficient for form-locking, in particular. This allows for housings with only small openings or base element openings in the base plate area. Consequently, the housing can reliably withstand and generate high operating forces, such as those that may occur at levels of 200N to 400N or higher in brake pedal assemblies, for example. The housing can thus be constructed with particularly thin walls despite the potentially high forces.

[0023] Of particular advantage is that, for the pedal assembly, at least one opening in the base plate of the housing has a share of at most 10%, and especially at most 5%, of the total area of ​​the base plate. In this way, the housing (even with a thinner wall thickness) is sufficiently stable to withstand high operating forces, wherein the form-locking reception of the reset structure assembly can be additionally achieved.

[0024] Preferably, the reset structure assembly is entirely disposed on the base plate. Particularly preferred is that the reset structure assembly is entirely disposed between the base plate and the pedal element. In other words, no component of the reset structure assembly is inserted into the internal space of the housing from the outside, nor does any component of the reset structure assembly extend into the internal space of the housing from the outside. This allows for particularly easy installation and / or removal of the reset structure assembly within or at the location of the housing.

[0025] The preferred housing has sidewalls adjacent to the base plate. The pedal element is supported, particularly rotatably supported, on the sidewalls. The base element abuts against the sidewalls. The base element is supported on the sidewalls. This achieves support at the sidewalls and force transmission between the base element and the sidewalls, in addition to the form-locking connection with the base plate. This results in both reinforcement of the housing and reliable fixation of the reset structure assembly, especially the base element, at or within the housing. Thus, reliable resistance to high operating forces is achieved.

[0026] The pedal element can be supported within the interior space of the housing. The pedal element can be arranged in a support section within the interior space of the housing. This allows for particularly good protection and stable support.

[0027] The preferred base element has an annular groove and / or a cup-shaped recess. A resilient reset element is arranged within the annular groove and / or cup-shaped recess. The resilient reset element, in particular a coil spring, preferably constructed as a compression spring, is partially embedded in the annular groove and / or cup-shaped recess. This preferably prevents the reset element from sliding relative to the base element. More precisely, the reset element is securely arranged on the base element. The aforementioned resilient reset force of the preferred reset element compresses the reset element into the annular groove and / or cup-shaped recess, thus eliminating the need for additional measures to hold the reset element within the annular groove and / or cup-shaped recess. This achieves easy and secure installation. The reset element can also be easily and quickly disassembled and replaced.

[0028] "Cup-shaped recess" specifically refers to a recess defined by a surrounding protruding edge. This includes, for example, cylindrical recesses and / or frustoconical recesses and / or other recesses with a constant or variable diameter within their height range. As an alternative to recesses with a circular profile, the recess can also have a polygonal profile. In all such recesses, a reset element can be reliably received.

[0029] Advantageously, the pedal element has a recess and / or a protrusion. A resilient return element is supported or received within the recess or protrusion. Thus, movement of the pedal element is transmitted to the return element (while the return element cannot laterally deflect), causing elastic deformation of the return element. This allows an elastic return force to be applied to the pedal element. The protrusion or recess of the pedal element prevents the return element from sliding on the pedal element. Specifically, the aforementioned elastic return force presses the return element against the protrusion and / or into the recess of the pedal assembly. Therefore, no additional measures are needed to secure the return element to the pedal element. Particularly advantageously, the return element thus extends between the recess and / or protrusion of the pedal element on one side and the annular groove and / or cup-shaped recess of the base element on the other side.

[0030] Furthermore, the reset structure assembly preferably has a cushioning element disposed at the base element. Here, it is preferably specified that the pedal element abuts against the cushioning element in the end region of the operating movement, particularly in the final position. The cushioning element is, in particular, capable of elastic reversible deformation and causing a soft end to the operating movement, thereby preventing strong impacts. The cushioning element is particularly constructed and / or arranged to contact the pedal element after at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, particularly preferably at least 95%, of the operating stroke between the initial and final positions, in order to cushion the movement in the remainder of the operating stroke. The cushioning element can be made of, for example, natural or synthetic rubber.

[0031] In an advantageous design, the housing has a cover plate. The cover plate, in particular, has a stop. It is specified that the resilient reset element of the reset structure assembly presses the pedal element toward the cover plate, and especially toward the stop. Furthermore, it is specified that the state in which the pedal element is pressed toward the cover plate and / or the stop represents the initial position. The pedal element can thus move toward the base element, especially the bottom plate of the housing, from its contact with the cover plate, especially the stop. This generates maximum movement possibilities for the pedal element, which, in turn, enables a compact structural design of the housing.

[0032] The pedal element moves, for example, between mechanical contact points within the housing. In other words, the housing, exemplarily and particularly by means of its internal space and, if necessary, by means of elements arranged within the internal space, defines the travel of the pedal element.

[0033] The reset mechanism assembly is configured in such a way that it presses the pedal element against the cover plate, especially the stop, with a predetermined force. Therefore, in order to operate the pedal assembly or pedal element, the predetermined force must be overcome, which makes unintentional operation particularly difficult.

[0034] The preferred reset structure assembly has at least two independent, resilient reset elements. These reset elements are arranged between the base element and the pedal element in a parallel manner. Particularly advantageously, the two reset elements are each resiliently and reversibly configured. Furthermore, the reset elements are advantageously configured separately and preferably arranged independently on the base element. Particularly preferred is that the reset elements are not connected to each other, except that they are arranged on the same base element and the same pedal element. The use of two independent reset elements provides redundancy, allowing the other reset element to independently return the pedal element to its initial position should one fail. Furthermore, the use of two independent reset elements allows for flexible adjustment of the pedal characteristics. The at least two reset elements can, for example, have different resilient characteristics, such as different spring constants. However, they can also be configured identically.

[0035] The reset assembly is preferably designed for mounting the pedal assembly and can be inserted into the housing along the mounting direction, particularly together with the pedal element. The mounting direction is substantially perpendicular to the operating direction of the pedal element and / or substantially perpendicular to the compression and extension directions of the reset element. Thus, the reset assembly simplifies the installation of the pedal assembly, as it can be installed together with the pedal element. In particular, the reset element can be easily and cost-effectively arranged outside the housing (before installation into the housing) or pre-installed between the base element and the pedal element, thereby avoiding installation of the reset element inside the housing (after installation of the pedal element and base element). Advantageously, this allows for easy and cost-effective pre-assembly and prior quality control of the reset assembly and pedal element together.

[0036] Preferably, the base element has at least one groove-shaped tool insert. The tool insert is particularly configured along the mounting direction. The groove shape thus preferably extends along the mounting direction. It is particularly advantageous that a resilient reset element can be pre-tensioned between the pedal element and the base element.

[0037] The tool insert simplifies the installation of the pedal assembly. In particular, the reset mechanism assembly is installed together with the pedal element, where the resilient reset element can be compressed using a tool. The installation direction extends laterally to the operating direction, requiring the user to apply force to the pedal element precisely along said operating direction. The tool insert has no undercut, allowing for the use of a tool for installing the reset mechanism assembly along the installation direction, but also for removing the tool during movement in the opposite direction.

[0038] Particularly preferably, the tool insert extends substantially perpendicular to the compression / tension direction of the reset element. This allows for a simple pre-tensioning of the reset element, which can then be installed into the pedal assembly, particularly together with the pedal element. However, it is also possible to first install the pedal element in or at the housing and then subsequently install the reset structure assembly into the housing using a tool inserted into the tool insert.

[0039] Another aspect of the invention relates to a reset structure assembly for a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly has a housing and a pedal element or pedal arm. Furthermore, the reset structure assembly has at least one resilient, particularly reversibly resilient, reset element for returning the pedal element or pedal arm to its initial position, and a base element. The base element is constructed separately from the housing, is mountable (particularly, can be fixed) within or at the housing, and is configured to receive the resilient reset element. Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the reset structure assembly is releasable within or at the housing in such a way that the reset element can be elastically deformed by manipulation of the pedal element or pedal arm.

[0040] Therefore, the reset structure assembly can be customized to match the required features. It can be manufactured pre-assembled, allowing it to be installed or arranged as a unit or module, particularly in a single installation step, within the housing of the pedal assembly or its internal space. The reset structure assembly can be easily and cost-effectively installed in the pedal assembly. Thus, the reset structure assembly allows for customized adjustments to the pedal assembly, which can be constructed from consistently identical components in other directions. This minimizes the overall manufacturing cost of the pedal assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1a A first schematic diagram of a pedal assembly in a first position according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 1b A first schematic diagram of a pedal assembly in a second position according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A second schematic diagram of a pedal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A schematic first cross-sectional view of a pedal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic second cross-sectional view of a pedal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 5 A first schematic diagram of a reset structure assembly of a pedal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 6 A second schematic diagram of the reset structure assembly of the pedal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; and Figure 7 Another schematic diagram of a pedal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figure 1a and Figure 1b A pedal assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of pedal assembly 1 is also shown. Figure 1a , 1b Figures 1 and 2 show the pedal assembly 1 from different spatial perspectives.

[0043] The pedal assembly 1 has a housing 2, a pedal element 3, and a reset structure assembly 4. The pedal element 3 is movably supported on the housing 2, for example, by a bearing assembly 19. The position of the pedal element 3 relative to the housing 2 can be detected by a sensor unit 18, thereby detecting pedal operation. Alternatively, the sensor unit 18 can be mechanically connected to the pedal element 3 to obtain a mechanical force transmission to the system to be operated. The sensor unit 18 may additionally have electronic circuitry, by means of which sensor signals can be detected and / or evaluated and / or stored and / or transmitted (e.g., transmitted to a control device). The sensor unit 18 may, for example, have a rotation angle sensor.

[0044] The pedal element 3 can be supported by the support mechanism on the housing 2. Figure 1a The initial position S1 shown is... Figure 1b The pedal element 3 moves between the indicated endpoint positions S2. The reset structure assembly 4 is used to transfer the pedal element 3 to or retain it in the initial position S1 when no external force is applied to it. For this purpose, the reset structure assembly 4 has at least one resilient reset element 5 and a base element 6. The base element 6 is configured to receive the resilient reset element 5. The base element 6 can be, for example, an element at least separate from the reset element 5. It can be made separately from and not integrally with the reset element 5. The reset element 5 can be received, installed, or arranged in or at the base element 6, for example, loosely or detachably and / or releasably without damage. In other embodiments, the reset element 5 can be arranged on the base element 6 in a way that is releasable but not detachable without damage.

[0045] In this specification, the base element 6 is constructed separately from the housing 2 and is installed, in particular, fixed within or at a location within the housing 2. Thus, the base element 6 can be manufactured separately from the housing 2, and the base element 6 can, for example, serve as a connector between the reset element 5 and the housing 2. The reset element 5 can be easily, securely, and correctly positioned or installed within the housing 2 by means of the base element 6. Therefore, the pedal assembly 1 can be easily and cost-effectively matched to different requirements because the characteristics of the pedal element 3 can be easily and cost-effectively adjusted by using a suitable reset element 5. The use of different reset elements 5 does not cause any adjustment to the housing 2 itself, because only the base element 6 needs adjustment when no or even different reset elements can be arranged, installed, or accommodated within or at the same base element 6. Because the housing 2 is more expensive to manufacture than the base element 6, the pedal assembly 1 can still be easily and cost-effectively manufactured with a greater possibility of variations. The reset assembly 4 is installed, in particular, in a way that allows for easy detachment within or at the housing 2, such that manipulation of the pedal element 3 toward the end position S2 causes reversible elastic deformation of the reset element 5. Through the elastic reset force of the reset element 5, the pedal element 3 is thus returned to its initial position S1 when manipulation ends or when no external force is applied to it.

[0046] The housing 2 has a base plate 7, a side wall 10 adjacent to the base plate 7, and a cover plate 15. The base plate 7, cover plate 15, and side wall 10 form an internal space 30 therebetween, or an internal space 30 surrounding the housing 2. The internal space 30 is exemplarily formed in a bag-like shape. It only has a (larger) mounting opening 31 for the pedal element 3 and a reset structure assembly 4 (in Figure 1a , 1b (Center front left) and is otherwise closed off - the opening 8 described below for coupling the base element 6 to the base plate 7 does not obstruct the bag-like structure of the housing 2 because it has only a small area (e.g., less than 10% or 5% of the area of ​​the base plate 7). In particular, it is exemplified here that the pedal element 3 is not installed through the first mounting port (e.g., from left to right) and the reset structure assembly 4 is installed through the second mounting port (e.g., from bottom to top).

[0047] Therefore, the housing 2 can also be manufactured with a small wall thickness or plate thickness, achieving high shape stability and being highly resistant to torsion. This is particularly advantageous if, for example, a high pedal force needs to be applied when the pedal assembly 1 is used as a brake pedal assembly. The operating force during braking can be, for example, greater than 200 N, or even greater than 300 N, or greater than 400 N.

[0048] The mounting opening 31 is exemplarily open forward or in the direction extending from the pedal arm of the pedal element 3. The pedal arm here exemplarily has a foot pedal at its free end. The mounting opening 31 here exemplarily opens in a direction extending transversely to the axis of rotation for the pedal element 3. The axis of rotation can extend transversely or perpendicularly to the mounting direction 100 (described below). The pedal assembly 3 is movable within the mounting opening 31 in the installed state between an initial position S1 and an end position S2. In other words, in the installed state of the pedal element 3, the pedal element 3 here exemplarily extends at least segmentally through the mounting opening 31 into the external environment of the housing 2. The reset structure assembly 4 here exemplarily (viewed along the mounting direction 100 or along the direction of the pedal arm) is arranged between the support mechanism of the pedal element 3 and the foot pedal of the pedal element 3.

[0049] The reset structure assembly 4 can be arranged or installed almost completely (e.g., more than 90%) in the internal space 30 of the housing 2, and in particular, no component of the reset structure assembly 4 passes through one of the sidewalls 10 or plates 7, 15 from the outside in. Here, the reset structure assembly 4 is exemplary to be completely arranged in the internal space 30 of the housing 2. Thus, the installation of the pre-assembled reset structure assembly 4 can be particularly easy. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the reset structure assembly 4 can be introduced, pushed in, or installed into the internal space 30 of the housing 2, especially as a pre-assembled element, in a single installation step. The time-consuming introduction of the element into the internal space and the subsequent coupling of another element of the reset structure assembly are unnecessary. Furthermore, it is advantageous that, by means of the arrangement of the reset structure assembly 4 in the internal space 30, at least one reset element 5 is particularly well protected from external mechanical influences, etc.

[0050] The pedal element 3 is supported on the side wall 10. The pedal element 3 is exemplarily supported within the internal space 30 of the housing. The pedal element 3 is arranged with a support section 32 between the side wall 10, the base plate 7, and the cover plate 15. The base element 6, for example, abuts against the side wall 10 and / or the base plate 7. This achieves particularly secure and reliable positioning of the base element 6 and the reset element 5 within the housing 2. The cover plate 15 preferably has a stop 16, wherein the resilient reset element 5 of the reset structure assembly 4 presses the pedal element 3 toward the cover plate 15 and / or toward the stop 16. This state (in which the pedal element 3 is pressed toward the cover plate 15 and / or the stop 16) represents, for example, the initial position S1. The initial position can be reliably set by the use of the stop 16. The stop 16 can have a cushioning characteristic to prevent a strong impact of the pedal element 3 on the housing 2, for example, when the pedal element 3 is suddenly released from the pressed state and bounces toward the initial position S1.

[0051] Figure 3 and 4 Different cross-sectional views of pedal assembly 1 are shown.

[0052] Figure 3 As shown, the base plate 7 has at least one opening 8, wherein in Figure 3 Two such openings 8 are shown. The base element 6 has at least one protrusion 9 corresponding to the opening 8, thereby... Figure 3 Two such protrusions 9 are shown. Each protrusion 9 is here exemplary coupled in a form-locking manner to an opening 8, such that the protrusion 9 is arranged in a form-locking manner in the corresponding opening 8. It goes without saying that, as an alternative or supplementary solution, the base plate 7 can also have at least one base plate protrusion and the base element 6 can also have at least one base element opening corresponding to the base plate protrusion, wherein the base plate opening and the base plate protrusion are coupled in a form-locking manner.

[0053] Particularly advantageously for the pedal assembly 1, the area of ​​at least one opening 8 of the base plate 7, and especially the area of ​​all openings 8 of the base plate 7 of the housing 2, has a maximum share of 10%, and especially a maximum share of 5%, of the total area of ​​the base plate 7. In this way, the housing 2 (even with a relatively thin wall thickness) is sufficiently stable to withstand high operating forces, while simultaneously enabling the form-locking reception of the reset structure assembly 4 within the housing 2 or its internal space 30.

[0054] If the base element 6 abuts against the base plate 7 in the predetermined position, the protrusion 9 engages with the opening 8, thereby creating a form-locking connection. Lateral movement of the base element 6 relative to the base plate 7 is impossible without removing the base element 6 from the base plate 7. Preferably, the resilient reset element 5 is pre-tensioned between the base element 6 and the pedal element 3, so that the resilient reset force also applies when the pedal element 3 is in the initial position S1. Furthermore, this causes the base element 6 to be pressed against the base plate 7, thereby keeping the protrusion 9 in the opening 8, meaning that the base element 6 is not removed from the base plate 7. Thus, a secure and reliable support for the base element 6 within the housing 2 is achieved using simple and cost-effective measures. The base element 6 and thus the reset element 5 remain fixed in position relative to the base plate 7. Simultaneously, the reset structure assembly 4 can be easily and without damage installed and removed.

[0055] The base element 6 can exemplarily have an annular groove 11 and / or a cup-shaped recess 12 in which a resilient reset element 5, such as a pressure spring, is arranged or can be arranged. In the illustrated embodiment, the reset structure assembly 4 has two independent resilient reset elements 5a and 5b, which are arranged between the base element 6 and the pedal element 3 in a manner that acts parallel to each other. The two reset elements 5a and 5b are exemplarily constructed as pressure springs here. Here, the first reset element 5a is arranged in the annular groove 11 and the second reset element 5b is arranged in the cup-shaped recess 12. This design allows the reset elements 5a and 5b to be guided individually in the base element 6 because the reset elements 5a and 5b are not arranged in the same recess of the base element 6. Alternatively, the two reset elements 5a and 5b can also be arranged in their own annular grooves, or in a common, i.e., the same annular groove, or in a common cup-shaped recess.

[0056] By using two reset elements 5a and 5b, on the one hand, a more precise setting of the desired characteristics of the pedal element 3 can be achieved; on the other hand, redundancy exists in the reset function of the pedal element 3. If one of the reset elements 5a and 5b fails, for example due to a defect, the other reset element 5a or 5b can continue to ensure that the pedal element 3 is returned to the initial position S1 after operation.

[0057] The pedal element 3 exemplarily has a (pedal element-) recess 13, in which a resilient reset element 5 is supported, for example, at an end away from the base element 6. Alternatively or supplementarily, a protrusion for supporting the reset element 5 can also be provided. In the embodiment shown in the figures, two reset elements 5a and 5b are arranged in the same (pedal element) recess 13, wherein a personalized recess can also be provided for each reset element 5a and 5b. Through the (pedal element) recess 13, the reset elements 5a and 5b cannot slide on the pedal element 3. Thus, it is always achieved that manipulation of the pedal element 3, i.e., movement of the pedal element 3 toward the endpoint position S2, causes compression of the reset elements 5a and 5b, and the reset elements 5a and 5b can guide the pedal element 3 back to the initial position S1.

[0058] To avoid a strong impact of the pedal element 3 against the housing 2 and / or the reset structure assembly 4 at the final position S2, the reset structure assembly 4 here exemplaryly has a buffer element 14 arranged on the base element 6, wherein other buffering options are also conceivable. The pedal element 3 abuts against the buffer element 14 in the end region of the operating movement, but at least at the final position S2. Thus, the operating movement can be decelerated by the buffer element 14 until reaching the final position S2. Figure 3In the example shown, the buffer element 14 is arranged inside the cup-shaped recess 12. If such a cup-shaped recess 12 does not exist, for example because the two reset elements 5a and 5b are arranged in a common annular groove or in separate annular grooves, then the buffer element 14 can also be arranged on the base element 6 in other ways.

[0059] Figure 5 and 6 The reset structure assembly 4 is schematically shown in different views. For mounting the pedal assembly 1, the reset structure assembly 4 can be inserted into the housing 2 along the mounting direction 100, either together with or separately from the pedal element 3. Here, mounting is preferably performed via a particularly unique mounting port 31. The mounting direction 100 extends substantially perpendicular to the operating direction of the pedal element 3 and / or substantially perpendicular to the compression direction of the reset elements 5a, 5b. Furthermore, the base element 6 of the reset structure assembly 4 has at least one slot-shaped tool insert 17 configured along the mounting direction 100. The tool insert is used to mount the reset structure assembly 4 as explained below. In the embodiment shown in the figures, two tool inserts 27 are arranged on opposite sides of the base element 6. The tool inserts 17 are exemplarily arranged adjacent to the sidewalls 10 (observed with the reset structure assembly 4 installed in the housing 2).

[0060] The reset structure assembly 4 can be manufactured and pre-assembled independently of the housing 2 by placing the reset elements 5a and 5b on the base element 6. The selection of the reset elements 5a and 5b can be almost arbitrary through the transfer function of the base element 6.

[0061] To install the reset structure assembly 4 in the housing, specifically to fix the reset structure assembly 4 to a tool (not shown here), wherein the tool is embedded in the tool insert 17 of the base element 6. Furthermore, in a conceivable exemplary design, the pedal element 3 can be fixed to the tool, such that the resilient reset elements 5a, 5b are pre-tensioned between the pedal element 3 and the base element 6. The reset structure assembly 4 and the pedal element 3 can thus be jointly introduced into the housing 2. This results in easy and cost-effective installation. It is also possible to specify that the pedal element 3 is first installed or arranged in or at a location within the housing 2, and then the reset structure assembly 4 is inserted into or installed into the housing 2 using a tool.

[0062] The pedal assembly 1 is particularly suitable for use in vehicles. Therefore, the pedal assembly 1 can preferably be the accelerator pedal and / or brake pedal and / or clutch pedal of a vehicle. The pedal assembly can also be a pedal of a single-pedal operating mechanism of a vehicle, such as an electric vehicle.

Claims

1. A pedal assembly (1), comprising: -Shell (2); - Pedal element (3), said pedal element being movably supported on the housing (2) and said pedal element being movable between an initial position (S1) and an end position (S2); and - Reset structure assembly (4), the reset structure assembly having at least one resilient reset element (5) and a base element (6). -The basic element (6) mentioned above. --Constructed separately from the housing (2) and -- Installed, especially fixed in or at the housing (2) and --Constructed to receive the resilient reset element (5), and --The reset structure assembly (4) can be loosely installed in or at the housing (2) without damage, such that manipulation of the pedal element (3) in the direction toward the end position (S2) causes elastic deformation of the reset element (5).

2. The pedal assembly (1) according to claim 1. The housing (2) has a base plate (7) with at least one opening (8). The base element (6) has at least one protrusion (9) corresponding to the opening (8), the protrusion being shaped-locked with the opening (8), and in particular, the protrusion being shaped-locked within the opening (8). And / or The housing (2) has a bottom plate (7) with at least one bottom plate protrusion. The base element (6) has at least one base element opening corresponding to the base plate protrusion, and the base element opening is coupled in a locking manner with the base plate protrusion.

3. The pedal assembly (1) according to the preceding claims. The housing (2) has a sidewall (10) adjacent to the base plate (7), and the pedal element (3) is supported on the sidewall, wherein the base element (6) abuts against the sidewall (10).

4. The pedal assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The base element (6) has an annular groove (11) and / or a cup-shaped recess (12), and the resilient reset element (5) is arranged in the annular groove and / or the cup-shaped recess.

5. The pedal assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The pedal element (3) has a recess (13) and / or a protrusion, and the resilient reset element (5) is supported in the recess / protrusion.

6. The pedal assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The reset structure assembly (4) has a buffer element (14) arranged on the base element (6). The pedal element (3) abuts against the cushioning element (14) in the end region of the operating motion, especially in the end position (S2).

7. The pedal assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The housing (2) therein has a cover plate (15) with a stop (16). The resilient reset element (5) of the reset structure assembly (4) presses the pedal element (3) toward the cover plate (15), especially toward the stop (16). The initial position (S1) is represented by the state in which the pedal element (3) is pressed against the cover plate (15) and / or the stop (16).

8. The pedal assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The reset structure assembly (4) has two independent, resilient reset elements (5a, 5b) arranged between the base element (6) and the pedal element (3) in a manner that acts in parallel with each other.

9. The pedal assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The reset structure assembly (4) is designed to be inserted into the housing (2) along the mounting direction (100) in particular, together with the pedal element (3), for mounting the pedal assembly (1). The mounting direction (100) extends, in particular, substantially perpendicular to the operating direction of the pedal element (3).

10. The pedal assembly (1) according to claim 9. The base element (6) has at least one slotted tool insert (17) configured along the mounting direction (100), particularly for pre-tensioning the resilient reset element (5) between the pedal element (3) and the base element (6).

11. A reset structure assembly (4) for a pedal assembly (1) having a housing (2) and a pedal element (3), the reset structure assembly (4) having: - At least one resilient reset element (5) and a base element (6) for resetting the pedal element (3) to the initial position (S1). -The basic element (6) mentioned above. --Constructed separately from the shell (2), and --Capable of being installed, especially of being fixed in or at a location within a housing (2) and --Constructed to receive a resilient reset element (5), and -The reset structure assembly (4) is particularly capable of being loosely installed in or at the housing (2) without damage, thereby enabling the elastic deformation of the reset element (5) by manipulation of the pedal element (3).

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