Electric pedal and vehicle

Abstract

The application relates to an electric pedal and a vehicle. The electric pedal comprises a driving mechanism and a pedal, the pedal is arranged at the output end of the driving mechanism, the driving mechanism is configured to drive the pedal to switch between an unfolded position and a retracted position; when the pedal is in the unfolded position, the pedal is a welcome pedal configured for a driver or a passenger to step on; when the pedal is in the retracted position, the pedal is a fixed pedal configured for the driver or the passenger to step on. The electric pedal makes the pedal have the stepping function in both the unfolded position and the retracted position, can be stepped on by the driver or the passenger, can avoid the problem that no pedal is available due to the failure of the driving mechanism under extreme working conditions such as mud off-road, long-term water immersion, extremely cold icing or battery power shortage, realizes the welcome convenience of the pedal under normal working conditions, guarantees the use performance of the pedal under extreme working conditions, provides reliable support for the driver or the passenger to get on or off the vehicle, and is favorable for improving the stability of the pedal stepping process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to electric pedals and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of vehicle technology, electric steps are now installed on vehicles to facilitate passengers getting in and out.

[0003] In related technologies, electric pedals include a drive mechanism and a pedal. The pedal is located at the output end of the drive mechanism and can switch between an extended position and a retracted position under the drive of the drive mechanism.

[0004] However, in the relevant technology, the pedal is completely retracted under the vehicle body when it is in the retracted position. When the vehicle is in conditions such as muddy off-roading, long-term water crossing, extreme cold and ice, or battery depletion, the drive mechanism fails and the retracted pedal cannot be switched to the deployed state, making it inconvenient for the driver and passengers to get in and out of the vehicle in an emergency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide an electric pedal and vehicle to address the problem that the pedal cannot be switched to the unfolded state under extreme public conditions, which makes it inconvenient for drivers and passengers to get in and out of the vehicle in emergencies.

[0006] An electric pedal, comprising:

[0007] Drive mechanism;

[0008] A pedal is located at the output end of the drive mechanism, which is configured to drive the pedal to switch between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0009] When the pedal is in the unfolded position, the pedal is a welcoming step, and the pedal is configured for drivers and passengers to step on;

[0010] When the pedal is in the retracted position, the pedal is a fixed pedal and is configured for use by the driver or passenger.

[0011] This electric running board is functional in both its extended and retracted positions, allowing drivers and passengers to step on it. This prevents the problem of no running board due to drive mechanism failure in extreme conditions such as muddy off-roading, prolonged water wading, extreme cold and icy conditions, or battery depletion. It achieves both the convenience of a running board under normal conditions and the performance of the running board under extreme conditions, providing reliable support for drivers and passengers to get in and out of the vehicle and improving the stability of the running board process.

[0012] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism includes:

[0013] Linkage assembly, the linkage assembly including a first link;

[0014] The driving component has a first connecting rod connected to its output end, a connecting shaft connecting the first connecting rod to the driving component as a first connecting shaft, and a connecting shaft of the first connecting rod near the pedal as a second connecting shaft. The driving component drives the pedal to switch between the extended position and the retracted position by driving the first connecting rod to rotate.

[0015] When the pedal is pressed and subjected to force in the retracted position, the direction of the force exerted by the pedal on the first connecting rod is parallel to the direction of the pressing force and is located in the plane containing the first connecting shaft and the second connecting shaft.

[0016] The pedal force is converted into a tension force acting on the first link, and this tension force always lies within the plane containing the first and second linkages. This prevents the first link from being subjected to shear forces, thereby extending its service life and improving the structural reliability of the link assembly. Under this stress state, the conversion of the pedal force into a tangential force that causes the first link to rotate around its first linkage is reduced, thus reducing the torque on the first link. Simultaneously, the pedal force is not transmitted to the drive component through the first link, preventing torque generation. Even when the drive component is off, it is protected from damage due to additional torque, ensuring the structural safety of the drive component, preventing abnormal noise caused by torque, and reducing the risk of drive component failure.

[0017] In one embodiment, when the pedal is in the retracted position, the second coupling is located below the first coupling along the height direction of the vehicle, and the plane containing the first coupling and the second coupling is perpendicular to the pedal surface.

[0018] This structural design allows for more precise transmission of vertical pedal force to the first link, with the force direction aligned with the first link's stress direction. This further optimizes the stress state of the first link, effectively weakening or even eliminating lateral forces and preventing damage such as bending or deformation due to lateral forces. This significantly improves the first link's structural load-bearing capacity and service life. Simultaneously, the perpendicularity of the plane containing the first and second linkages to the pedal surface ensures that the pedal force is entirely concentrated within the plane of these linkages. This further reduces the torque transmission from the pedal force to the drive component via the first link, providing more reliable protection for the drive component when it is powered off and lowering the probability of drive mechanism failure.

[0019] In one embodiment, the linkage assembly further includes:

[0020] The second link is rotatably configured via the third shaft;

[0021] The third link is rotatably connected to the first link via the second connecting shaft, and the third link is rotatably connected to the second link via the fourth connecting shaft. The pedal is located on the third link, and the third connecting shaft is located between the fourth connecting shaft and the pedal.

[0022] During operation, the drive unit drives the first link to rotate around the first shaft, which in turn drives the third link to move synchronously. The third link then drives the second link to rotate around the third shaft, ultimately achieving a smooth and reliable switching of the pedal between the extended and retracted positions.

[0023] In one embodiment, when the pedal is in the retracted position, the plane containing the second and fourth connecting shafts is perpendicular to the plane containing the third and fourth connecting shafts.

[0024] When the pedal is in the retracted position, and the occupant depresses it, the force applied to the third link acts on it. Since the third link is connected to the first link via the second coupling, which acts as a fulcrum, the force drives the third link to rotate around the second coupling, thus driving the pedal downwards. Simultaneously, one end of the fourth coupling, which connects the third and second links, moves upwards. When the plane containing the second and fourth couplings is perpendicular to this plane, the force exerted on the third link under the pressure of the pedal—rotating around the second coupling—is a radial force centered on and directed towards the third coupling. This creates pressure on the second link within the plane containing the third and fourth couplings.

[0025] The force analysis above shows that when the pedal is in the retracted position, the plane containing the second and fourth connecting shafts is perpendicular to the plane containing the third and fourth connecting shafts. This ensures that the pedaling force in the retracted position exerts a pressure force on the second connecting rod, which helps reduce the rotational component of the second connecting rod around the third connecting shaft. This reduces the torque on the second connecting rod and helps improve the service life of the third connecting rod.

[0026] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism further includes:

[0027] A buffer is provided on one of the first link and the second link, and when the pedal is in the deployed position, the buffer is configured to abut against the other.

[0028] The buffer can prevent rigid collisions between the first link and the second link when the pedal is stepped on in the welcoming position. It also prevents friction between the first link and the second link when the pedal is stepped on in the welcoming position. This helps to reduce mechanical wear caused by rigid collisions and friction caused by the rotation of the first link, and also reduces noise generated during the mechanical process of rigid collisions and friction caused by the rotation of the first link, thus improving the user experience.

[0029] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism further includes:

[0030] Mounting base, the connecting rod assembly is disposed on the mounting base, and the first connecting rod is rotatably connected to the mounting base through the first connecting shaft.

[0031] The mounting base serves as a carrier for the linkage assembly, enabling modular management of the entire drive mechanism and facilitating its assembly and disassembly.

[0032] In one embodiment, the mounting base includes:

[0033] The limiting part is configured to constrain the second link to rotate away from the pedal when the pedal is in the retracted position.

[0034] When the pedal is in the retracted position, if the pedaling force exerted on the pedal also creates a thrust parallel to the pedal surface and towards the linkage assembly, this thrust drives the first linkage to rotate relative to the first connecting shaft, and the second linkage to rotate relative to the third connecting shaft. The rotation of both the first and second linkages pushes the entire linkage assembly to rotate away from the pedal. At this time, the limiting part is located on the side of the linkage assembly away from the pedal, and its limiting effect on the second linkage prevents the first and second linkages from rotating.

[0035] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism further includes:

[0036] A limiting member is provided in one of the limiting portion and the second link, and when the pedal is in the retracted position, the limiting member is configured to abut against the other.

[0037] This drive mechanism utilizes a separately designed limiting component that abuts against the second link to limit the rotation of the second link around the third axis, thereby limiting the linkage assembly and the pedal as a whole. This ensures structural stability while preventing direct contact between the limiting part of the mounting base and the second link. Since the contact point with the second link is prone to wear during contact, and the pedal is susceptible to collision with this contact point when switching from the extended to the retracted position, the separate limiting component allows for individual replacement when damaged. Compared to using a limiting part that requires replacing the entire mounting base due to wear, replacing the limiting component significantly reduces replacement costs. Furthermore, the limiting component can be made of flexible material to mitigate damage caused by rigid collisions during position switching, thus extending its service life.

[0038] A vehicle comprising:

[0039] Vehicle body;

[0040] The electric pedal as described above is located on the side of the vehicle body in the width direction of the vehicle.

[0041] This vehicle achieves convenient pedal access under normal operating conditions while ensuring pedal performance under extreme conditions, providing reliable support for passengers getting in and out of the vehicle and improving the stability of the pedal operation. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric pedal provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 1 .

[0043] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the pedal in the unfolded position according to one embodiment of this application.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric pedal provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 2 .

[0045] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the pedal at point AA in the retracted position.

[0046] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the force analysis of the pedal in the retracted position according to one embodiment of this application.

[0047] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0048] 100 - Drive mechanism; 110 - Link assembly; 111 - First link; 112 - First coupling; 113 - Second coupling; 114 - Second link; 115 - Third coupling; 116 - Third link; 117 - Fourth coupling; 120 - Drive component; 130 - Buffer component; 140 - Mounting base; 141 - Limiting part; 142 - Mounting surface; 150 - Limiting component;

[0049] 200-Pedal. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0051] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0052] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0053] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0054] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0055] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0056] See Figure 1 , Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric pedal provided in one embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 1 .

[0057] This embodiment provides a vehicle, which includes a vehicle body and an electric pedal. The electric pedal is located on the side of the vehicle body in the width direction of the vehicle and is used for passengers to step on when getting on and off the vehicle, so as to improve the comfort, convenience and sense of ceremony of passengers getting on and off the vehicle.

[0058] Please continue reading. Figure 1 The electric running board includes a drive mechanism 100 and a running board 200. The running board 200 is located at the output end of the drive mechanism 100. The drive mechanism 100 is configured to drive the running board 200 to switch between an extended position and a retracted position. When the running board 200 is in the extended position, it is a welcome step for passengers. When the running board 200 is in the retracted position, it is a fixed step, still usable for passengers. This electric running board allows the running board 200 to be used in both extended and retracted positions, preventing the running board 200 from being unusable due to drive mechanism 100 failure in conditions such as muddy off-roading, prolonged water wading, extreme cold and icing, or battery depletion. It achieves both the convenient welcome function of the running board 200 under normal conditions and ensures its performance under extreme conditions, providing reliable support for passengers getting in and out of the vehicle and improving the stability of the running board 200 during use.

[0059] Compared to related technologies where the pedal is completely retracted into the vehicle body in the retracted position and cannot be stepped on, in this embodiment, the pedal 200 can still be safely used as a fixed pedal 200 in the retracted position. This solves the risk that existing electric pedals may fail under extreme conditions, affecting emergency boarding and alighting, and provides assurance for passengers getting on and off the vehicle under extreme conditions. Furthermore, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the power source of the drive mechanism 100 is off, which helps save energy. When the drive mechanism 100 malfunctions and becomes stuck, or the power source fails to start, the pedal 200 still functions in the retracted position, minimizing the impact on passengers getting on and off the vehicle. This avoids situations where a failure of the drive mechanism 100's power source leaves passengers without a pedal 200, thus improving the user experience.

[0060] Meanwhile, compared with the fixed pedals in related technologies, the electric pedal in this embodiment has an extended position, providing drivers and passengers with a wide stepping space and an automatic welcoming function, solving the problems of narrow stepping area, insufficient human-machine comfort and poor sense of ceremony of existing fixed pedals.

[0061] Therefore, in this embodiment, the electric pedal has a pedal 200 that can be stepped on in both the extended and retracted positions, thus combining the advantages of both the welcome pedal 200 and the fixed pedal 200, and overcoming the defects of the existing welcome pedal 200 and fixed pedal 200, and has certain reliability, convenience and versatility.

[0062] The aforementioned electric pedals enable convenient access for passengers under normal operating conditions while ensuring performance under extreme conditions, providing reliable support for getting in and out of the vehicle and improving stability during pedal operation.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, when the pedal 200 is in the unfolded position, the pedal 200 protrudes from the vehicle body, providing ample stepping space for passengers to get in and out of the vehicle, facilitating their stepping operation and thus improving the comfort of passengers getting in and out of the vehicle.

[0064] like Figures 3-4 As shown, in one embodiment, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the pedal 200 protrudes at least partially from the vehicle body, that is, the surface of the pedal 200 used for stepping protrudes at least partially from the vehicle body, so as to provide a certain stepping space for the driver and passengers and ensure the convenience of the driver and passengers getting on and off the vehicle.

[0065] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism 100 includes a linkage assembly 110 and a drive member 120. The linkage assembly 110 is connected to the drive member 120, and the pedal 200 is disposed on the linkage assembly 110. In the working state, the drive member 120 can drive the linkage assembly 110 to rotate around a preset axis, thereby causing the pedal 200 to switch between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0066] For example, the drive unit 120 adopts a rotary motor, which has the advantages of compact structure and small space occupation, and can be adapted to the installation space requirements of the vehicle chassis.

[0067] When the pedal 200 is in the unfolded position, the drive unit 120 is powered on and has a self-locking function to ensure that the pedal 200 can be stably kept in the unfolded position, and to ensure that the pedal 200 can withstand the preset pedaling pressure and avoid displacement due to force.

[0068] When the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the drive unit 120 can be in a de-energized state, requiring no continuous power supply, which helps reduce vehicle energy consumption and improve vehicle range performance.

[0069] Now combined Figure 1 , Figures 3-5 The detailed structure of the link assembly 110 is described below.

[0070] like Figure 1 , Figures 3-5 As shown, in one embodiment, the linkage assembly 110 includes a first linkage 111, which is connected to the output end of the drive member 120. The connecting shaft connecting the first linkage 111 and the drive member 120 is a first connecting shaft 112, and the connecting shaft of the first linkage 111 near the pedal 200 is a second connecting shaft 113. The drive member 120 drives the first linkage 111 to rotate around the first connecting shaft 112, thereby causing the pedal 200 to switch between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first connecting shaft 112 is disposed near one end of the first connecting rod 111, and the second connecting shaft 113 is disposed near the other end of the first connecting rod 111. Of course, in other embodiments, one of the first connecting shaft 112 and the second connecting shaft 113 may also be located in the middle or near the middle of the first connecting rod 111. The positions of the first connecting shaft 112 and the second connecting shaft 113 can be set according to the shape and position of the connecting rod assembly 110, the drive component 120, and other structures such as the vehicle body.

[0072] Optionally, the first link 111 may include, but is not limited to, a plate-like structure or a rod-like structure. Preferably, the first link 111 is a plate-like structure, which has strong stability and high structural strength, and can provide stable support when the pedal 200 is in the unfolded position. Furthermore, the plate-like first link 111 can be a flat plate, or a plate with a certain curvature or special shape, and may also have protrusions, grooves, etc. in certain areas.

[0073] Optionally, when the pedal 200 is in the extended position and the retracted position, its tread surface M1 is parallel to the vehicle's travel surface M2 to ensure the comfort of the rider.

[0074] In another embodiment, when the pedal 200 is in a free state, i.e., when the pedal 200 is not pressed, the pedal surface M1 of the pedal 200 maintains a preset angle with the vehicle's driving surface M2 in both the extended and retracted positions. The distance between the pedal surface M1 and the driving surface M2 gradually increases in the direction away from the connection point between the pedal 200 and the drive mechanism 100. Since the first linkage 111 will rotate at a certain angle when the drive unit 120 is powered on, if the pedal 200 is pressed, the angle between the pedal 200 and the driving surface M2 will also change. Maintaining a preset angle between the pedal 200 and the driving surface M2 helps prevent the pedal 200 from tilting outwards when it is pressed and rotated, which could easily cause slippage for the driver or passenger. This improves the safety and user experience during pedaling. When the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, since the drive unit 120 is powered off, it does not protect the position of the pedal 200. In this case, the position is maintained by the limiting function of the linkage assembly 110 and the external structure. Furthermore, the foot pedal surface M1 and the driving surface M2 maintain a preset angle, which helps to set the angle between the foot pedal surface M1 and the lower edge contour of the vehicle body when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, so as to maintain aesthetics.

[0075] Optionally, when the pedal 200 is in the extended position, the angle between the pedal 200 and the driving surface M2 ranges from 1.5° to 5°. For example, the angle between the pedal 200 and the driving surface M2 is 1.5°, 2°, 3°, 4°, or 5°. This angle range allows the pedal 200 to remain parallel to the driving surface M2 after being pressed, or to still have a certain tilt angle towards the vehicle body, preventing the pedal 200 from tilting outwards after being pressed and affecting pedaling safety.

[0076] Optionally, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the angle between the pedal 200 and the driving surface M2 ranges from 5° to 10°. For example, the angle between the pedal 200 and the driving surface M2 is 5°, 6°, 7°, 8°, 9°, or 10°. This tilt angle of the pedal 200 helps ensure the comfort and safety of the driver and passengers when using it, preventing the driving surface M1 from tilting outwards due to changes in the angle of the pedal 200 after it is pressed. It also needs to have a certain angle with the lower edge contour of the vehicle body to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the positional relationship between the pedal 200 and the lower edge contour of the vehicle body.

[0077] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 The linkage assembly 110 also includes a second linkage 114 and a third linkage 116. The second linkage 114 is rotatably mounted via a third shaft 115; the third linkage 116 is rotatably connected to the first linkage 111 via a second shaft 113, and the third linkage 116 is rotatably connected to the second linkage 114 via a fourth shaft 117. The pedal 200 is located on the third linkage 116, and the third shaft 115 is located between the fourth shaft 117 and the pedal 200. During operation, the drive unit 120 drives the first linkage 111 to rotate around the first shaft 112, thereby causing the third linkage 116 to move synchronously. The third linkage 116 then drives the second linkage 114 to rotate around the third shaft 115, ultimately achieving a smooth and reliable switching of the pedal 200 between the extended and retracted positions.

[0078] When the pedal 200 is in the retracted position and subjected to a stepping force, the direction of the force exerted by the first link 111 is parallel to the direction of the stepping force F. That is, the direction of the force exerted by the pedal 200 on the first link 111 is consistent with the direction of the stepping force F and is located in the plane containing the first connecting shaft 112 and the second connecting shaft 113.

[0079] Therefore, the pedal force F borne by the pedal 200 can be converted into a tensile force acting on the first connecting rod 111. This tensile force is always within the plane containing the first connecting shaft 112 and the second connecting shaft 113, thus preventing the first connecting rod 111 from being subjected to shear force, thereby extending its service life and improving the structural reliability of the connecting rod assembly 110. Under this stress state, the conversion of the pedal force F of the pedal 200 into a tangential force that rotates the first connecting rod 111 around the first connecting shaft 112 can be reduced, thereby reducing the torque of the first connecting rod 111. Simultaneously, the pedal force F borne by the pedal 200 will not be transmitted to the drive component 120 through the first connecting rod 111 and generate torque. Even if the drive component 120 is in a de-energized state, it can be prevented from being damaged due to additional torque, thus ensuring the structural safety of the drive component 120, avoiding abnormal noise caused by torque on the drive component 120, and reducing the risk of drive component 120 failure.

[0080] Optionally, the second link 114 may include, but is not limited to, a plate-like structure or a rod-like structure. Preferably, the second link 114 is a plate-like structure, which has strong stability and high structural strength, and can provide stable support when the pedal 200 is in the unfolded position. Furthermore, the first link 111, which is a plate-like structure, can be a flat plate, or a plate with a certain curvature or special shape, and may also have protrusions, grooves, etc., in certain areas.

[0081] The third link 116 is not limited to a rod shape. When the third link 116 is rod-shaped, a portion of the third link 116 is located on one side of the first link 111 and the second link 114 along the width direction of the first link 111, and a portion of the third link 116 is located on the other side of the first link 111 and the second link 114 along the width direction of the first link 111, thereby improving the structural stability of the link assembly 110. The third link 116 can not only connect the first link 111, the second link 114 and the pedal 200, but also has better structural strength and stability.

[0082] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 Furthermore, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the second connecting shaft 113 is located below the first connecting shaft 112 along the height direction of the vehicle, and the plane containing the first connecting shaft 112 and the second connecting shaft 113 is perpendicular to the pedal surface M1 of the pedal 200. This structural arrangement allows the vertical pedaling force F on the pedal 200 to be transmitted more accurately to the first connecting rod 111, and the direction of the force is consistent with the direction of the force on the first connecting rod 111, further optimizing the stress state of the first connecting rod 111, effectively weakening or even eliminating the lateral component force on the first connecting rod 111, avoiding damage such as bending and deformation of the first connecting rod 111 due to lateral force, and significantly improving the structural load-bearing capacity and service life of the first connecting rod 111. Meanwhile, the fact that the plane containing the first coupling 112 and the second coupling 113 is perpendicular to the foot surface M1 ensures that the pedaling force F is fully applied within the plane containing the first coupling 112 and the second coupling 113. This further reduces the torque transmitted from the pedaling force F to the drive component 120 through the first link 111, thus more reliably protecting the drive component 120 when it is powered off and reducing the probability of failure of the drive mechanism 100.

[0083] Specifically, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the second linkage 113 is located below the first linkage 112 along the height direction of the vehicle, and at this time the position of the first linkage 111 causes the second linkage 113 to move to the lowest point position. When the pedal 200 is pressed, the first linkage 111 only has tension.

[0084] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in one embodiment, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the plane containing the second connecting shaft 113 and the fourth connecting shaft 117 is perpendicular to the plane containing the third connecting shaft 115 and the fourth connecting shaft 117. When the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, and the driver or passenger presses the pedal 200, the pressing force F acts on the third connecting rod 116. Since the third connecting rod 116 is connected to the first connecting rod 111 through the second connecting shaft 113, and the second connecting shaft 113 serves as a fulcrum, the pressing force F drives the third connecting rod 116 to rotate around the second connecting shaft 113 as an axis, that is, drives the pedal 200 to move downward, and one end of the fourth connecting shaft 117, which is connected to the second connecting rod 114, moves upward. When the plane containing the second connecting shaft 113 and the fourth connecting shaft 117 is perpendicular to the plane containing the third connecting shaft 115 and the fourth connecting shaft 117, the force that rotates the third connecting rod 116 around the second connecting shaft 113 under the action of the pedaling force F, and the radial force acting on the second connecting rod 114 in the direction of the third connecting shaft 115, that is, the pressure that is generated on the second connecting rod 114 in the plane containing the third connecting shaft 115 and the fourth connecting shaft 117.

[0085] The force analysis above shows that when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the plane containing the second connecting shaft 113 and the fourth connecting shaft 117 is perpendicular to the plane containing the third connecting shaft 115 and the fourth connecting shaft 117. This ensures that the main force exerted by the pedal force F on the second connecting rod 114 when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position is pressure. This helps to reduce the rotational component of the second connecting rod 114 around the third connecting shaft 115, thereby reducing the torque borne by the second connecting rod 114 and improving the service life of the third connecting rod.

[0086] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism 100 further includes a buffer 130, which is disposed on one of the first link 111 and the second link 114. When the pedal 200 is in the extended position, the buffer 130 is configured to abut against the other. The buffer 130 can prevent rigid collisions between the first link 111 and the link in the welcoming position, and at the same time prevent friction between the pedal 200 and the second link 114 during the rotation of the first link 111 relative to the first connecting shaft 112 when the pedal is stepped on in the welcoming position. This helps to reduce mechanical wear caused by rigid collisions and friction generated by the rotation of the first link 111, and also reduces noise generated during the mechanical process of rigid collisions and friction generated by the rotation of the first link 111, thereby improving the user experience.

[0087] For example, the buffer 130 may be disposed on the surface of the first link 111 facing the second link 114, and abut against the second link 114 when the pedal 200 is in the extended position; alternatively, the buffer 130 may be disposed on the surface of the second link 114 facing the first link 111, and abut against the first link 111 when the pedal 200 is in the extended position. Furthermore, there may be multiple buffers 130, with some disposed on both the first link 111 and the second link 114.

[0088] Optionally, the buffer 130 is made of a flexible material, such as rubber, so that the buffer 130 has high wear resistance and can avoid noise generated in rigid collisions and friction.

[0089] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism 100 further includes a mounting base 140, a connecting rod assembly 110 disposed on the mounting base 140, and a first connecting rod 111 rotatably connected to the mounting base 140 via a first connecting shaft 112. The mounting base 140 is mounted on the vehicle body. As a carrier for the connecting rod assembly 110, the mounting base 140 enables modular management of the drive mechanism 100 as a whole, facilitating assembly and disassembly of the drive mechanism 100.

[0090] Specifically, during assembly, the pedal 200 can be assembled onto the linkage assembly 110, then the linkage assembly 110 can be assembled onto the mounting base 140, and finally the mounting base 140 can be placed on the vehicle body to complete the assembly. When maintenance or repair is required, the mounting base 140 can be removed from the vehicle body first, and then the linkage assembly 110, drive component 120, and pedal 200 can be inspected and repaired.

[0091] In one embodiment, the mounting base 140 includes a mounting surface 142 located on the side close to the vehicle body, for example, the mounting surface 142 is located on top, for securing the mounting base 140 to the vehicle body.

[0092] Mounting base 140 also has a structure for setting up connection with the first coupling 112 and the third coupling 115 of the link assembly 110 to realize the installation and fixation of the link assembly 110.

[0093] The mounting base 140 also includes a limiting part 141. When the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the limiting part 141 is configured to constrain the second link 114 from rotating in a direction away from the pedal 200. Specifically, when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, if the pedaling force F on the pedal 200 also exerts a thrust parallel to the pedal surface M1 and towards the link assembly 110, this thrust drives the first link 111 to rotate relative to the first connecting shaft 112 and the second link 114 to rotate relative to the third connecting shaft 115. The rotation of the first link 111 and the second link 114 both push the link assembly 110 as a whole to rotate away from the pedal 200. At this time, the limiting part 141 is located on the side of the link assembly 110 away from the pedal 200, and the limiting effect of the limiting part 141 on the second link 114 can prevent the first link 111 and the second link 114 from rotating.

[0094] The limiting part 141 provides support for the second link 114, so that when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, even if the drive member 120 does not have a self-locking function, the link assembly 110 can stably support the pedal 200, which helps to maintain the positional and functional stability of the pedal 200 and the link assembly 110 when the pedal 200 is in the retracted position.

[0095] For example, the limiting part 141 can limit the second link 114 by directly abutting or indirectly abutting the second link 114 to prevent the second link 114 from rotating away from the pedal 200.

[0096] Furthermore, the drive mechanism 100 also includes a limiting member 150, which is disposed on one of the limiting portion 141 and the second link 114. When the pedal 200 is in the retracted position, the limiting member 150 is configured to abut against the other. The drive mechanism 100 uses the separately provided limiting member 150 to abut against the second link 114 to limit the rotation of the second link 114 around the third connecting shaft 115, thereby limiting the overall movement of the link assembly 110 and the pedal 200. This achieves structural stability while preventing the limiting portion 141 of the mounting base 140 from directly abutting against the second link 114. Because the contact point with the second link 114 is prone to wear during contact, and the pedal 200 is prone to collision with the contact point when switching from the extended position to the retracted position, a separate limiting component 150 is provided for limiting the movement. This allows for individual replacement when damaged. Compared to using the limiting part 141 for limiting, which requires replacing the mounting base 140 due to wear, replacing the limiting component 150 reduces replacement costs. Furthermore, the limiting component 150 can be made of flexible material to mitigate damage caused by rigid collisions during position switching, thus extending its service life.

[0097] Furthermore, the limiting member 150 is made of flexible material, and the amount of compression when it comes into contact with the second link 114 can be selected according to the range of torque that the driving member 120 can withstand.

[0098] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0099] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electric pedal, characterized in that, include: Drive mechanism (100); A pedal (200) is provided at the output end of the drive mechanism (100), which is configured to drive the pedal (200) to switch between an extended position and a retracted position; When the pedal (200) is in the unfolded position, the pedal (200) is a welcoming step, and the pedal (200) is configured for drivers and passengers to step on; When the pedal (200) is in the retracted position, the pedal (200) is a fixed pedal (200) and the pedal (200) is configured for the driver and passengers to step on.

2. The electric pedal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (100) includes: A linkage assembly (110) includes a first linkage (111); a drive member (120), wherein the first linkage (111) is connected to the output end of the drive member (120), the connecting shaft connecting the first linkage (111) and the drive member (120) is a first connecting shaft (112), and the connecting shaft of the first linkage (111) near the pedal (200) is a second connecting shaft (113). The drive member (120) drives the pedal (200) to switch between the extended position and the retracted position by driving the first linkage (111) to rotate. When the pedal (200) is stepped on in the retracted position, the direction of the force exerted by the pedal (200) on the first connecting rod (111) is parallel to the direction of the stepping force and is located in the plane where the first connecting shaft (112) and the second connecting shaft (113) are located.

3. The electric pedal according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the pedal (200) is in the retracted position, the second connecting shaft (113) is located below the first connecting shaft (112) along the height direction of the vehicle, and the plane containing the first connecting shaft (112) and the second connecting shaft (113) is perpendicular to the step surface of the pedal (200).

4. The electric pedal according to claim 2, characterized in that, The link assembly (110) also includes: The second link (114) is rotatably mounted via the third shaft (115); and The third link (116) is rotatably connected to the first link (111) via the second connecting shaft (113), and the third link (116) is rotatably connected to the second link (114) via the fourth connecting shaft (117). The pedal (200) is located on the third link (116), and the third connecting shaft (115) is located between the fourth connecting shaft (117) and the pedal (200).

5. The electric pedal according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the pedal (200) is in the retracted position, the plane containing the second connecting shaft (113) and the fourth connecting shaft (117) is perpendicular to the plane containing the third connecting shaft (115) and the fourth connecting shaft (117).

6. The electric pedal according to claim 4, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (100) further includes: A buffer (130) is provided on one of the first link (111) and the second link (114), and when the pedal (200) is in the deployed position, the buffer (130) is configured to abut against the other.

7. The electric pedal according to claim 4, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (100) further includes: Mounting base (140), the connecting rod assembly (110) is disposed on the mounting base (140), and the first connecting rod (111) is rotatably connected to the mounting base (140) through the first connecting shaft (112).

8. The electric pedal according to claim 7, characterized in that, The mounting base (140) includes: When the pedal (200) is in the retracted position, the limiting part (141) is configured to constrain the second link (114) to rotate away from the pedal (200).

9. The electric pedal according to claim 8, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (100) further includes: A limiting member (150) is provided on one of the limiting portion (141) and the second link (114), and when the pedal (200) is in the retracted position, the limiting member (150) is configured to abut against the other.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, include: Vehicle body; The electric pedal as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the electric pedal is located on the side of the vehicle body in the width direction of the vehicle.

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