Actuation device for hydraulically actuating a brake or clutch of a vehicle

Abstract

An actuation device for hydraulically actuating a brake or clutch of a vehicle includes a pump assembly (2) and a free-stroke adjustment device (3). A piston (23) is configured to slide within a chamber (22) disposed within a pump body (21) along a pump actuation direction (X-X). The piston (23) is movable at least from a rest position (P1) to an operating position (P2), defining a free-stroke clearance (d1) between the two. The free-stroke adjustment device (3) includes a free-stroke adjustment body (31) connected to the piston (23), which is movable along a free-stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') parallel to the pump actuation direction (X-X), wherein movement of the free-stroke adjustment body (31) along the free-stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') causes movement of the piston (23) along the pump actuation direction (X-X) to increase or decrease the free-stroke clearance (d1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an actuation device for hydraulically actuating brakes or clutches of vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, multi-purpose work vehicles (UTVs), side-by-side vehicles (SSVs), and other vehicles typically equipped with a pump assembly (or master cylinder assembly).

[0002] The present invention is specifically designed to optimize the adjustment of the idle stroke associated with the pump assembly, so that the adjustment is performed in a faster and more efficient manner, and is not affected by the adjustment of other parameters (such as ratio adjustment) that may be associated with the actuation device. Background Technology

[0003] Hydraulic actuation of the brakes or clutches of the vehicles mentioned is typically performed by operating a pump assembly (or master cylinder assembly). Generally, such a pump assembly includes a chamber within a pump body for receiving actuating fluid for the brakes or clutch, and a piston configured to slide within said chamber along the pump actuation direction. The piston is configured to move from a rest position to an operating position, in which the chamber volume is at its maximum, and in the operating position, the piston fluidly isolates the chamber from a supply passage configured to supply actuating fluid to the chamber. Once the supply passage is isolated, the movement of the piston pressurizes the fluid within the chamber, which in turn applies the necessary pressure to actuate the vehicle's brakes or clutch.

[0004] The free play is defined between the rest position and the piston's operating position. From the rest position to the operating position (or at the moment before the supply channel is isolated), no pressure is transmitted to the brake or clutch. By adjusting the free play, the brake or clutch can be actuated immediately or with a slight delay, as desired or required by the driver. Therefore, adjusting the free play is fundamental to achieving optimal actuator performance.

[0005] Document WO2018 / 083578A1 relates to a lever device addressing the need for simple and reliable adjustment of free travel. The lever device includes a pump body defining a cavity and a piston adapted to slide within the cavity along the thrust direction. The lever device also includes a free travel adjustment device actuated in an actuation direction perpendicular to the thrust direction. The free travel adjustment device is disposed between a control lever assembly and the pump body. The control lever assembly includes a hub portion associated with the free travel adjustment device, the device extending between the hub portion and an abutment surface of the pump body. The free travel adjustment device includes an eccentric rod, for example having a cam profile, abutting against the abutment surface of the pump body. By rotating the eccentric rod, the free travel is indirectly adjusted via an element inserted between the piston and the control lever assembly for transmitting thrust.

[0006] While the aforementioned lever assembly provides improvements, some drawbacks have been observed. Initially, the actuation direction of the free play adjustment device is perpendicular to the thrust direction, thus generating a force perpendicular to the plane containing those directions, which affects the optimal dynamic characteristics of the device. Furthermore, piston position adjustment is indirectly performed through numerous components (the abutment surface of the pump body, the eccentric rod, the hub portion, the element for transmitting thrust, the pushrod seat), which transmit movement thereto, and further involve the control lever assembly. Therefore, more precise design and manufacturing are required, as the larger the number of components, the larger the tolerance chain. Additionally, it should be noted that the free play adjustment device is located between the control lever assembly and the pump assembly, with a portion of its components situated on the control lever assembly. Therefore, the performance of the free play adjustment device depends on the control lever assembly, which can affect the adjustment of other parameters associated with the control lever assembly, such as ratio adjustment. In this respect, it has been observed that if a lever assembly is replaced with a new one or removed for maintenance purposes, the free play will need to be readjusted to the same level as before the removal of the previous lever assembly.

[0007] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by means of: an actuation device having a free stroke adjustment mechanism designed to optimize its dynamic performance, allowing direct actuation on the piston, independent of other adjustments associated with the actuation device (such as ratio adjustment), allowing quick replacement of the lever assembly without readjusting the current settings, and being easy and manual to operate without tools. Therefore, it is convenient to adjust the free stroke to obtain the optimal performance of the actuation device and to adapt it to the rider's preferences (sensitivity, ergonomics, riding style, etc.) or to certain driving conditions (track, low friction, racing, weather conditions, etc.). Summary of the Invention

[0008] The actuation device for a hydraulically actuated brake or clutch of a vehicle according to the present invention includes a pump assembly and a free stroke adjustment device.

[0009] The pump assembly includes a chamber disposed within a pump body for receiving actuating fluid from a brake or clutch, and a piston configured to slide within the chamber along the pump actuation direction. The piston is movable at least from a rest position to an operating position, in which the volume of the chamber is maximized, and in the operating position, the piston fluidly isolates the chamber from a supply passage configured to supply the actuating fluid to the chamber. A stroke free play is defined between the piston's rest position and the operating position.

[0010] The free stroke adjustment device is configured to adjust the rest position of the piston inside the chamber to increase or decrease the free play.

[0011] The actuation device is characterized in that the idle stroke adjustment device includes an idle stroke adjustment body connected to the piston, the idle stroke adjustment body being movable along an idle stroke adjustment direction parallel to the pump actuation direction, wherein the movement of the idle stroke adjustment body along the idle stroke adjustment direction causes the piston to move along the pump actuation direction to increase or decrease the stroke free clearance.

[0012] In other words, the movement of the idle stroke adjustment body generates thrust on the piston, and this thrust is parallel to both the pump actuation direction and the idle stroke adjustment direction. Therefore, no other force perpendicular to these directions is generated. This improves the dynamic characteristics of the actuation device.

[0013] Preferably, the idle stroke adjustment body is directly connected to the piston. In this way, the thrust acting on the piston is transmitted more efficiently because it is not transmitted indirectly through other intermediate components that may generate friction or undesirable reaction forces. Furthermore, the absence of such intermediate components reduces tolerance chains, thus facilitating the design and manufacture of the actuator.

[0014] Preferably, the adjusting body is nut-shaped and includes an extension connected to the piston.

[0015] Preferably, the idle stroke adjustment device is housed within the pump body. More preferably, it is housed within a casing of the pump body specifically designed to accommodate the main components of the idle stroke adjustment device. In this way, a more compact and simpler design of the actuator is achieved.

[0016] Preferably, the free travel adjustment device is operated manually without the need for tools. This allows for easy operation of the free travel adjustment device. It even allows professional users to adjust the free travel while riding during competition and / or racing conditions.

[0017] Preferably, the idle stroke adjustment device is rotatably actuated about a pivot axis coinciding with the idle stroke adjustment direction. This also improves the dynamic characteristics of the actuation device. Furthermore, actuating the idle stroke adjustment device by rotation facilitates user operation and allows for more precise adjustment.

[0018] Preferably, the idle travel adjustment device includes a knob connected to the adjustment screw for manually transmitting rotational motion to the idle travel adjustment screw without the need for tools.

[0019] Preferably, the idle travel adjustment device includes an idle travel adjustment screw threadedly connected to the idle travel adjustment body, wherein rotation of the idle travel adjustment screw about the pivot axis causes the idle travel adjustment body to move along the idle travel adjustment direction.

[0020] Preferably, the idle stroke adjustment device includes an eccentric rod attached to the pump body perpendicular to the idle stroke adjustment screw, and a calibration portion connected to the idle stroke adjustment screw, having a circular groove configured to receive the eccentric rod. Rotation of the eccentric rod allows the idle stroke adjustment body to move along the idle stroke adjustment direction to calibrate the stroke free clearance in the piston's operating position. Therefore, fine adjustment of the minimum stroke free clearance is allowed.

[0021] Preferably, the eccentric rod includes a threaded end configured to be threaded onto the pump body. That is, the eccentric rod is attached to the pump body and is rotatable relative to the pump body to allow for fine adjustment of the minimum stroke free play. The eccentric rod is configured to provide a minimum stroke free play that cannot be exceeded when the stroke free play is adjusted. Furthermore, the user can always return to the minimum stroke free play of the actuator by fully rotating the eccentric rod in a specific direction.

[0022] Preferably, the eccentric rod includes a cylindrical end configured to be received within a retaining cap while allowing rotation thereto. Preferably, the retaining cap has external threads for threaded connection to the pump body. In this way, the eccentric rod is attached to the pump body both via the threaded end and via the cylindrical end, thereby better securing its attachment to the pump body and establishing a more stable and reliable position relative to the idle stroke adjustment body.

[0023] Preferably, the idle stroke adjustment device includes:

[0024] - A locking pin, the locking pin being configured to abut against one or more recesses disposed on the free travel adjusting screw; and

[0025] - A first preloaded spring, the first preloaded spring having a fixed end that contacts the idle stroke adjusting body or the pump body, and a pushing end that contacts the locking pin.

[0026] The first preloaded spring is configured to push the locking pin against one or more recesses once the travel free play has been adjusted, thereby securing the free play adjusting screw. In other words, once adjusted, unwanted free play in the free play adjusting screw is prevented.

[0027] Preferably, the adjusting body includes a sleeve for receiving a first preloaded spring. Therefore, the fixed end of the first preloaded spring contacts the bottom of the sleeve.

[0028] Preferably, the actuation device includes a lever portion for actuating the pump assembly via a push rod configured to push the piston. The lever portion includes:

[0029] - A lever body with a handle; and

[0030] - A circular housing or hole arranged on the lever body, defining a central axis, the circular housing or hole being configured to receive the push rod and allow the circular housing or hole to rotate about the central axis to push the piston when the handle is pressed.

[0031] Preferably, the actuation device includes a ratio adjustment device disposed on the rod. The ratio adjustment device includes:

[0032] - A slotted hole, arranged on the lever body, defining a ratio adjustment direction perpendicular to the central axis; and

[0033] - A ratio adjustment body configured to move along the ratio adjustment direction to change its relative position with respect to the handle, defining a ratio adjustment axis parallel to the central axis.

[0034] A proportional adjustment distance is defined between the central axis and the proportional adjustment axis. The proportional adjustment device is configured to change the proportional adjustment distance by moving the proportional adjustment body along the proportional adjustment direction.

[0035] Preferably, the ratio adjustment device is operated manually without the need for tools.

[0036] Preferably, the ratio adjustment device includes a ratio adjustment screw threadedly connected to the ratio adjustment body, wherein rotation of the ratio adjustment screw about the ratio adjustment direction causes the ratio adjustment body to move along the ratio adjustment direction.

[0037] Preferably, the ratio adjustment device includes a knob connected to the ratio adjustment screw for manually transmitting rotational motion to the ratio adjustment screw without the need for tools.

[0038] Preferably, the ratio adjustment device includes a shaft that passes perpendicularly to the ratio adjustment body, through a through hole in the ratio adjustment body, and through the slotted hole, wherein the ratio adjustment axis is the axis of the shaft.

[0039] Preferably, the ratio adjustment device includes a spring having a first end in contact with the pump body and a second end in contact with the housing of the ratio adjustment body. The spring is preloaded to maintain contact between the push rod and the piston at all times.

[0040] Preferably, the ratio adjustment device includes:

[0041] - A locking ball, the locking ball being configured to abut against one or more cavities disposed on the ratio adjusting screw; and

[0042] - A second preloaded spring, the second preloaded spring having a fixed end that contacts the lever body and a pushing end that contacts the locking ball.

[0043] The second preloaded spring is configured to push the locking ball against the ratio adjusting screw to secure the ratio adjusting screw once the ratio adjustment distance has been adjusted.

[0044] Preferably, the pump actuation direction and the proportional adjustment direction are arranged on the same plane. This improves the dynamic characteristics of the actuation device.

[0045] Preferably, the actuating device includes a lever adjusting device arranged on the lever portion. The lever adjusting device includes:

[0046] - A bushing, the bushing being received within the circular housing or bore, the bushing being configured to rotate about the central axis of the circular housing or bore; and

[0047] - A threaded hole that passes through the bushing in the lever adjustment direction.

[0048] The push rod is threaded into the threaded hole. Rotation of the push rod about the lever adjustment direction causes it to move along the lever adjustment direction.

[0049] A lever adjustment distance is defined between the handle and the handle grip of the vehicle. The lever adjustment device is configured to change the lever adjustment distance by moving the push rod along the lever adjustment direction.

[0050] Preferably, the lever adjustment device is operated manually without the need for tools.

[0051] Preferably, the lever adjustment device includes a knob connected to the push rod for manually transmitting rotational motion to the push rod without the need for tools.

[0052] Preferably, the pump actuation direction and the lever distance adjustment direction are arranged on the same plane. This improves the dynamic characteristics of the actuation device.

[0053] Preferably, the lever portion is detachable from the pump assembly. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the lever portion may include a ratio adjustment device and / or a lever adjustment device disposed thereon, and these adjustment devices do not have components located within the pump assembly. Therefore, the lever portion can be easily and quickly replaced with another lever portion whose ratio adjustment device and / or lever adjustment device has been adjusted to be the same as those on the removed lever portion. Thus, after replacing the lever portion, it is not necessary to readjust these parameters again.

[0054] Preferably, the lever portion can be manually removed from the pump assembly without tools. Therefore, the lever portion can be replaced more easily and quickly.

[0055] Preferably, the actuation device includes a lever release device configured to separate the lever portion from the pump assembly (2). The lever release device includes a retaining clip configured to hold the shaft on the lever body by supporting the shaft with the retaining clip, and to release the shaft by pulling the retaining clip.

[0056] Furthermore, the shaft includes a retaining end and a releasing end, the retaining end having a retaining groove configured to receive the retaining clip, and the releasing end having a protruding pin, wherein the shaft is configured to move along the ratio adjustment axis when the protruding pin is pressed.

[0057] Preferably, the shaft includes an intermediate portion having a non-circular cross-section, the intermediate portion being configured to fit into the through hole of the ratio adjustment body to prevent rotation of the shaft about the ratio adjustment axis.

[0058] Preferably, the actuation device includes the idle stroke adjustment device and the proportional adjustment device as described above, both of which are adjustment devices that do not require manual operation without tools.

[0059] Preferably, the actuation device includes the free stroke adjustment device and the lever adjustment device as described above, both of which are adjustment devices that do not require manual operation without tools.

[0060] Preferably, the actuation device includes the free stroke adjustment device, ratio adjustment device and lever adjustment device as described above, all of which are manually operated without tools. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The following is a very brief description of a series of accompanying drawings, which helps to better understand the invention, and which explicitly relates to embodiments of the invention presented by way of non-limiting examples.

[0062] Figure 1 The front of the motorcycle includes two actuation devices according to the invention: one for hydraulically actuating the brake of the vehicle and the other for hydraulically actuating the clutch of the vehicle.

[0063] Figure 2 A perspective view showing the actuation device of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 4 An exploded view showing the idle stroke adjustment device of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0066] Figures 5a-5c A sequence of detailed views showing the area around the pump assembly's supply passages, illustrating the adjustment of the travel free clearance from the rest position to the operating position.

[0067] Figure 6 This is a front longitudinal sectional view of the actuation device of the present invention, wherein the piston is in the rest position.

[0068] Figure 7 This is a side view of the actuation device of the present invention, wherein the piston is in the resting position.

[0069] Figure 8 This is a front longitudinal sectional view of the actuation device of the present invention, wherein the piston is in the operating position.

[0070] Figure 9 This is a side view of the actuation device of the present invention, wherein the piston is in the operating position.

[0071] Figure 10 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the rear of the actuation device of the present invention, with the piston in the rest position.

[0072] Figure 11 express Figure 10 Details W.

[0073] Figure 12 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the rear of the actuation device of the present invention, with the piston in the operating position.

[0074] Figure 13 express Figure 12 Details Z.

[0075] Figure 14 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 15 A perspective view showing the lever portion of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 16 An exploded view showing the lever portion of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 17a This represents the cross section of the ratio adjustment device along the ratio adjustment axis QQ at the first adjustment position according to the ratio.

[0079] Figure 17b This represents the cross section of the ratio adjustment device along the ratio adjustment axis QQ at the second adjustment position according to the ratio.

[0080] Figures 18a-18c The sequence of longitudinal sectional views along the ratio adjustment direction RR shows the adjustment of the ratio adjustment distance.

[0081] Figure 19 This is a partial cross-sectional front view of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 20 This is a partial cross-sectional top view of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 21 A perspective view showing the lever adjustment device of the actuation device of the present invention.

[0084] Figures 22a to 22b The sequence of longitudinal sectional views along the lever adjustment direction SS shows the adjustment of the lever adjustment distance.

[0085] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the lever disassembly device of the present invention.

[0086] Figures 24a-24d This represents the sequence of steps used to separate the lever section from the pump assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0087] Figure 1 A portion of a motorcycle is shown, comprising two actuation devices (1) according to the invention, one for hydraulically actuating a brake (B) and the other for hydraulically actuating a clutch (C) of the vehicle. Each actuation device (1) is arranged on the handlebars (H) of the vehicle.

[0088] Figure 2 The diagram shows a perspective view of the actuation device (1) of the present invention, which can be used to independently hydraulically actuate the brake (B) or clutch (C) of a vehicle.

[0089] The actuation device (1) includes a pump assembly (2) and a free stroke adjustment device (3). According to this example, the actuation device (1) also includes a ratio adjustment device (4), a lever adjustment device (5), and a lever disassembly device (9).

[0090] The idle stroke adjustment device (3), the proportional adjustment device (4), the lever adjustment device (5), and the lever disassembly device (9) are all manually operated and require no tools.

[0091] from Figure 3 As can be seen from the diagram, the pump assembly (2) includes a chamber (22) disposed within the pump body (21) for accommodating actuating fluid of the brake (B) or clutch (C), and a piston (23) configured to slide within the chamber (22) along the pump actuation direction (XX).

[0092] The piston (23) is at least movable from a rest position (P1) to an operating position (P2), in which the volume of the chamber (22) is at its maximum, and in the operating position, the piston (23) fluidly isolates the chamber (22) from a supply channel (24) configured to supply actuating fluid to the chamber (22). A stroke free clearance (d1) is defined between the rest position (P1) and the operating position (P2) of the piston (23). Figures 5a to 5c The piston (23) includes a washer (25) configured to isolate a chamber (22) and seal a supply passage (24) which in turn communicates with a reservoir (26) containing hydraulic fluid.

[0093] The free stroke adjustment device (3) is configured to adjust the rest position (P1) of the piston (23) inside the adjustment chamber (22) to increase or decrease the stroke free clearance (d1).

[0094] The idle stroke adjustment device (3) includes an idle stroke adjustment body (31) connected to the piston (23), which is movable in an idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') parallel to the pump actuation direction (XX), wherein the movement of the idle stroke adjustment body (31) in the idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') causes the piston (23) to move in the pump actuation direction (XX) to increase or decrease the stroke free clearance (d1).

[0095] In other words, the movement of the idle stroke adjustment body (31) generates a push (Fp) on the piston (23), which is also parallel to the pump actuation direction (XX) and the idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X').

[0096] The idle stroke adjustment body 31 is directly connected to the piston (23). According to this example, the adjustment body (31) is nut-shaped and includes an extension (311) that contacts the piston (23). More specifically, the extension (311) contacts the peripheral wall (27) of the piston (23). When the idle stroke adjustment body (31) moves forward, the extension (311) pushes the peripheral wall (27), causing the piston (23) to move forward in the pump actuation direction (XX). When the idle stroke adjustment body (31) moves backward, the pump spring (28) inside the chamber (22) causes the piston (23) to move backward in the pump actuation direction (XX). The pump spring (28) holds the idle stroke adjustment body (31) in contact with the piston (23) until the piston (23) fluidly isolates the chamber (22) from the supply channel (24).

[0097] The pump body (21) includes a housing (211) located next to and directly above the piston (23), the housing being configured to accommodate the idle stroke adjustment body (31).

[0098] The idle stroke adjustment device (3) is rotatably actuated about a pivot axis that coincides with the idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X').

[0099] The idle stroke adjustment device (3) includes an idle stroke adjustment screw (32) threaded to the idle stroke adjustment body (31), wherein rotation (R1) of the idle stroke adjustment screw (32) about the pivot axis causes the idle stroke adjustment body (31) to move along the idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X').

[0100] The idle stroke adjustment device (3) includes a knob (39) connected to the outer end of the adjustment screw (32) for manually transmitting rotational motion to the idle stroke adjustment screw (32) without the need for tools.

[0101] The idle stroke adjustment device (3) includes an eccentric rod (33) perpendicular to the idle stroke adjustment screw (32) and attached to the pump body (21), and a calibration portion (34) connected to the idle stroke adjustment screw (32), the calibration portion having a circular groove (35) configured to receive the eccentric rod (33). Rotation of the eccentric rod (33) allows the idle stroke adjustment body (31) to move along the idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') to calibrate the stroke free clearance (d1) in the operating position (P2) of the piston (23). Thus, fine adjustment of the minimum stroke free clearance (d1) is allowed.

[0102] The eccentric rod (33) includes a threaded end (331) configured to be threaded onto the pump body (21). That is, the eccentric rod (33) is attached to the pump body (21) and is rotatable relative to the pump body to allow fine adjustment of the minimum stroke free clearance (d1). The eccentric rod (33) is configured to set a minimum stroke free clearance (d1) that cannot be exceeded when the stroke free clearance (d1) is adjusted. Furthermore, the user can always return to the minimum stroke free clearance (d1) of the actuator (1) by fully rotating the eccentric rod (33) in a specific direction.

[0103] from Figure 4 As can be seen, the eccentric rod (33) includes a cylindrical end (332) configured to be received within a retaining cap (333) while allowing it to rotate. The retaining cap (333) has external threads for threaded connection to the pump body (21). In this way, the eccentric rod (33) is attached to the pump body (21) via both the threaded end (331) and the cylindrical end (332), thereby better securing its attachment to the pump body (21) and establishing a more stable and reliable position relative to the idle stroke adjustment body (31).

[0104] The idle stroke adjustment device (3) includes:

[0105] - Locking pin (36), configured to abut against a plurality of recesses (38) arranged on the free travel adjusting screw (32); and

[0106] - A first preloaded spring (37) has a fixed end (371) that contacts the free travel adjustment body (31) and a push end (372) that contacts the locking pin (36).

[0107] The first preloaded spring (37) is configured to push the locking pin (36) against the recess (38) once the travel free play (d1) has been adjusted, thereby securing the free play adjusting screw (32). In other words, once adjusted, unwanted free play of the free play adjusting screw (32) is avoided.

[0108] The adjusting body (31) includes a sleeve (312) for accommodating a first preloaded spring (37). Therefore, the fixed end (371) of the first preloaded spring (37) contacts the inner bottom of the sleeve (312).

[0109] Figures 5a-5c A sequence of detailed views showing the area around the supply passage (24) of the pump assembly (21), showing more detail from the resting position (P1) ( Figure 5a ) to the operating position (P2) Figure 5c Adjustment of the travel free clearance (d1).

[0110] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A front longitudinal sectional view and a side view of the actuator (1) are shown, with the piston (23) in the rest position (P1).

[0111] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A front longitudinal sectional view and a side view of the actuator (1) are shown, with the piston (23) in the operating position (P2).

[0112] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The rear longitudinal sectional view and detail W of the actuator (1) are shown respectively, with the piston (23) in the rest position (P1).

[0113] As can be seen in more detail, the locking pin (36) abuts against one of the recesses (38) arranged on the free stroke adjusting screw (32), which is pushed by the first preloaded spring (37) located in the sleeve (312) of the adjusting body (31) to fix the free stroke adjusting screw (32) once the free stroke clearance (d1) has been adjusted.

[0114] Figure 12 and Figure 13The rear longitudinal sectional view and detail Z of the actuator (1) are shown, with the piston (23) in the operating position (P2).

[0115] In more detail, the eccentric rod (33) is perpendicular to the idle stroke adjusting screw (32). The circular groove (35) of the calibration portion (34) connected to the idle stroke adjusting screw (32) receives the eccentric rod (33). The rotation of the eccentric rod (33) allows the idle stroke adjusting body (31) to move along the idle stroke adjusting direction (X'-X') to calibrate the stroke free clearance (d1) in the operating position (P2) of the piston (23). Thus, fine adjustment of the minimum stroke free clearance (d1) is allowed.

[0116] As in Figure 14 and Figure 15 As can be seen, the actuation device (1) includes a lever portion (7) for actuating the pump assembly (2) via a push rod (8), the push rod being configured to push the piston (23).

[0117] The lever portion (7) includes:

[0118] - A lever body (71) with a handle (72); and

[0119] - A circular housing or hole (73) arranged on the lever body (71) defining a central axis (PP), the circular housing or hole (73) being configured to receive the push rod (8) and allow the circular housing or hole to rotate about the central axis (PP) to push the piston (23) when the handle (72) is pressed.

[0120] The actuating device (1) includes a ratio adjusting device (4) arranged on the lever portion (7), the ratio adjusting device comprising:

[0121] - A slotted hole (74) is provided on the lever body (71), the slotted hole defining a ratio adjustment direction (RR) perpendicular to the central axis (PP); and

[0122] - Ratio adjustment body (41), the ratio adjustment body is configured to move along the ratio adjustment direction (RR) to change its relative position with respect to the handle (72), defining a ratio adjustment axis (QQ) parallel to the central axis (PP).

[0123] A ratio adjustment distance (d2) is defined between the central axis (PP) and the ratio adjustment axis (QQ). The ratio adjustment device (4) is configured to change the ratio adjustment distance (d2) by moving the ratio adjustment body (41) along the ratio adjustment direction (RR). Figure 17a and17b .

[0124] The ratio adjustment device (4) is operated manually without the need for tools.

[0125] The ratio adjustment device (4) includes a ratio adjustment screw (42). Figure 16 Its threaded connection is to the ratio adjustment body (41), wherein the rotation (R2) of the ratio adjustment screw (42) about the ratio adjustment direction (RR) causes the ratio adjustment body (41) to move along the ratio adjustment direction (RR).

[0126] The ratio adjustment device (4) includes a knob (49) connected to the ratio adjustment screw (42) for manually transmitting rotational motion to the ratio adjustment screw (42) without the need for tools.

[0127] As in Figure 16 As can be seen, the ratio adjustment device (4) includes a shaft (43) that is perpendicular to the ratio adjustment body (41), passes through a through hole (44) provided in the ratio adjustment body (41), and passes through a slotted hole (74), wherein the ratio adjustment axis (QQ) is the axis of the shaft (43).

[0128] The ratio adjustment device (4) includes a spring (45) having a first end (451) in contact with the pump body (21) and a second end (452) in contact with the housing (411) of the ratio adjustment body (41).

[0129] The proportional adjustment device (4) includes:

[0130] - Locking ball (46), the locking ball being configured to abut against a plurality of cavities (48) arranged on the ratio adjusting screw (42); and

[0131] - A second preloaded spring (47) having a fixed end (471) that contacts the lever body (71) and a push end (472) that contacts the locking ball (46).

[0132] The second preloaded spring (47) is configured to push the locking ball (46) against the ratio adjusting screw (42) once the ratio adjustment distance (d2) has been adjusted, thereby fixing the ratio adjusting screw (42). Figures 18a-18c .

[0133] Figures 17a-17b and Figures 18a-18c The adjustment of the ratio adjustment distance (d2) is shown in more detail.

[0134] exist Figure 19 and Figure 20As can be seen, the pump actuation direction (XX) and the ratio adjustment direction (RR) are arranged on the same plane (P). Therefore, the dynamic characteristics of the actuation device (1) are improved.

[0135] exist Figure 21 As can be seen, the actuation device (1) includes a lever adjustment device (5) arranged on the lever part (7).

[0136] The lever adjustment device (5) includes:

[0137] - Bushing (51), which is received in a circular housing or bore (73), configured to rotate about the central axis (PP) of the circular housing or bore (73); and

[0138] - A threaded hole (52) through the bushing (51) in the lever adjustment direction (SS), wherein the push rod (8) is threaded into the threaded hole (52); wherein rotation (R3) of the push rod (8) about the lever adjustment direction (SS) causes its movement along the lever adjustment direction (SS).

[0139] exist Figures 22a-22b As can be seen, the lever adjustment distance (d3) is limited between the handle (72) and the vehicle's grip (H). The lever adjustment device (5) is configured to change the lever adjustment distance (d3) by moving the push rod (8) along the lever adjustment direction (SS).

[0140] The lever adjustment device (5) is operated manually without the need for tools.

[0141] The lever adjustment device (5) includes a knob (53) connected to the push rod (8) for manually transmitting rotational motion to the push rod (8) without the need for tools.

[0142] The pump actuation direction (XX) and the lever distance adjustment direction (SS) are arranged on the same plane (P). Therefore, the dynamic characteristics of the actuation device (1) are improved.

[0143] exist Figure 23 As can be seen, the actuation device (1) includes a lever removal device (9) configured to separate the lever portion (7) from the pump assembly (2). The lever portion (7) can be manually removed from the pump assembly 2 without tools. Therefore, the lever portion (7) can be replaced more easily and quickly.

[0144] The lever disassembly device (9) includes a retaining clip (91) configured to hold the shaft (43) on the lever body (71) by supporting the shaft (43) with the retaining clip (91) and to release the shaft by pulling the retaining clip (91).

[0145] Furthermore, the shaft (43) includes a retaining end (431) and a releasing end (433), the retaining end having a retaining groove (432) configured to receive a retaining clip (91), and the releasing end having a protruding pin (434), wherein the shaft (43) is configured to move along a ratio adjustment axis (QQ) when the protruding pin (434) is pressed.

[0146] The shaft (43) includes an intermediate portion (435) having a non-circular cross section, the intermediate portion being configured to fit into the through hole (44) of the ratio adjustment body (41) to prevent the shaft (43) from rotating about the ratio adjustment axis (QQ).

[0147] Figures 24a-24d The sequence of steps for separating the lever portion (7) from the pump assembly (2) is shown. The first step is simply to pull the retaining clip 91 with your fingers, thus releasing the shaft (43) from the lever disassembly device (9). Figure 24a The next step is to push the shaft (43) upward by pressing the protruding pin (434), which can also be done by hand. Figure 24b The next step is to remove the shaft (43) from the lever section (7) by pulling the shaft by hand. Figure 24c Finally, the lever part (7) is pulled by hand to completely separate it from the pump assembly (2).

[0148] The lever section (7) includes a ratio adjustment device (4) and a lever adjustment device (5) arranged on the lever section (7), and these adjustment devices (4, 5) do not have components located in the pump assembly (2). Therefore, the lever section (7) can be easily and quickly replaced with another lever section (7) on which the ratio adjustment device (4) and / or the lever adjustment device (5) have been adjusted to be the same as those on the removed lever section (7). Therefore, after replacing the lever section (7), it is not necessary to readjust these parameters again.

Claims

1. An actuation device for hydraulically actuating a brake or clutch of a vehicle, comprising: - Pump assembly (2), the pump assembly having a chamber (22) disposed within a pump body (21) for receiving actuating fluid of the brake (B) or clutch (C), and a piston (23) configured to slide within the chamber (22) along a pump actuation direction (XX); wherein the piston (23) is at least movable from a rest position (P1) to an operating position (P2), in which the volume of the chamber (22) is maximized, and in the operating position, the piston (23) fluidly isolates the chamber (22) from a supply channel (24) configured to supply the actuating fluid to the chamber (22), wherein a stroke free play (d1) is defined between the rest position (P1) and the operating position (P2) of the piston (23); and - Empty stroke adjustment device (3), the empty stroke adjustment device is configured to adjust the rest position (P1) of the piston (23) inside the chamber (22) to increase or decrease the stroke free clearance (d1). The actuation device (1) is characterized in that the idle stroke adjustment device (3) includes an idle stroke adjustment body (31) connected to the piston (23), the idle stroke adjustment body being movable along an idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') parallel to the pump actuation direction (XX), wherein the movement of the idle stroke adjustment body (31) along the idle stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') causes the piston (23) to move along the pump actuation direction (XX) to increase or decrease the stroke free clearance (d1).

2. The actuation device of claim 1, wherein, The idle stroke adjustment body (31) is directly connected to the piston (23).

3. The actuation device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that The idle stroke regulating device (3) is housed in the pump body (21).

4. The actuation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The idle travel adjustment device (3) can be operated manually without the need for tools.

5. The actuation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The idle travel adjustment device (3) is rotatably actuated about a pivot axis that coincides with the idle travel adjustment direction (X'-X').

6. The actuation device of claim 5, wherein, The idle travel adjustment device (3) includes an idle travel adjustment screw (32) threaded to the idle travel adjustment body (31), wherein rotation (R1) of the idle travel adjustment screw (32) about the pivot axis causes the idle travel adjustment body (31) to move along the idle travel adjustment direction (X'-X').

7. The actuation device of claim 6, wherein, The idle travel adjustment device (3) includes: - An eccentric rod (33), perpendicular to the idle stroke adjusting screw (32), is attached to the pump body (21); and - Calibration section (34), which is connected to the idle stroke adjusting screw (32) and has a circular groove (35) configured to receive the eccentric rod (33). The rotation of the eccentric rod (33) allows the free stroke adjustment body (31) to move along the free stroke adjustment direction (X'-X') to calibrate the stroke free clearance (d1) in the operating position (P2) of the piston (23).

8. The actuation device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The actuation device includes a lever portion (7) for actuating the pump assembly (2) by means of a push rod (8) configured to push the piston (23), the lever portion including: - Lever body (71), the lever body having a handle (72); and - A circular housing or hole (73) arranged on the lever body (71) defining a central axis (PP), the circular housing or hole (73) being configured to receive the push rod (8) and allow the circular housing or hole to rotate about the central axis (PP) to push the piston (23) when the handle (72) is pressed.

9. The actuation device of claim 8, wherein, The actuating device includes a ratio adjusting device (4) arranged on the lever portion (7), the ratio adjusting device comprising: - A slotted hole (74) is arranged on the lever body (71) to define a ratio adjustment direction (RR) perpendicular to the central axis (PP); and - Ratio adjustment body (41), the ratio adjustment body is configured to move along the ratio adjustment direction (RR) to change its relative position with respect to the handle (72), defining a ratio adjustment axis (QQ) parallel to the central axis (PP). The ratio adjustment distance (d2) is defined between the central axis (PP) and the ratio adjustment axis (QQ); wherein the ratio adjustment device (4) is configured to change the ratio adjustment distance (d2) by moving the ratio adjustment body (41) along the ratio adjustment direction (RR).

10. The actuation device of claim 9, wherein, The ratio adjustment device (4) includes a ratio adjustment screw (42) threaded to the ratio adjustment body (41), wherein rotation (R2) of the ratio adjustment screw (42) about the ratio adjustment direction (RR) causes the ratio adjustment body (41) to move along the ratio adjustment direction (RR).

11. The actuation device according to any one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that The ratio adjustment device (4) includes a shaft (43) that is perpendicular to the ratio adjustment body (41), passes through a through hole (44) provided in the ratio adjustment body (41), and passes through the slotted hole (74), wherein the ratio adjustment axis (QQ) is the axis of the shaft (43).

12. The actuation device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that The pump actuation direction (XX) and the ratio adjustment direction (RR) are arranged on the same plane (P).

13. The actuation device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that The ratio adjustment device (4) is operated manually without the need for tools.

14. The actuation device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that The actuating device includes a lever adjusting device (5) disposed on the lever portion (7), the lever adjusting device comprising: - Bushing (51), the bushing being received in the circular housing or bore (73), the bushing being configured to rotate about the central axis (PP) of the circular housing or bore (73); and - A threaded hole (52) passes through the bushing (51) in the lever adjustment direction, wherein the push rod (8) is threaded to the threaded hole (52); wherein the rotation (R3) of the push rod (8) about the lever adjustment direction (SS) causes it to move along the lever adjustment direction (SS); The lever adjustment distance (d3) is defined between the handle (72) and the grip (H) of the vehicle; wherein the lever adjustment device (5) is configured to change the lever adjustment distance (d3) by moving the push rod (8) along the lever adjustment direction (SS).

15. The actuation device of claim 14, wherein, The pump actuation direction (XX) and the lever distance adjustment direction (SS) are arranged on the same plane (P).

16. The actuation device according to any one of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that The lever portion (7) can be detached from the pump assembly (2).

17. The actuation device according to claims 11 and 16, characterized in that The actuation device includes a lever disassembly device (9) configured to separate the lever portion (7) from the pump assembly (2), the lever disassembly device comprising: - A retaining clip (91) configured to hold the shaft (43) on the lever body (71) by supporting the shaft (43) with the retaining clip (91), and to release the shaft by pulling the retaining clip (91); The shaft (43) includes: - A retaining end (431), the retaining end having a retaining groove (432) configured to receive the retaining clip (91); and - Release end (433), the release end having a protruding pin (434), wherein the shaft (43) is configured to move along the ratio adjustment axis (QQ) when the protruding pin (434) is pressed.

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