Sensor assembly, measuring unit, brake system and vehicle
By designing the motion module and guide frame in the sensor assembly, combined with laser or Hall sensor sensing magnetic field changes in the magnet, the high cost problem caused by the complex design of the pedal stroke sensor is solved, and cost-effective pedal stroke measurement is achieved, improving measurement accuracy and system reliability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202422850636.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-21
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-29
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-11-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing pedal stroke sensors are complex in design, resulting in high cost and difficult manufacturing and verification.
Design a sensor assembly, including a motion module and a guide frame, which moves with the brake pedal rod, senses the magnetic field changes of the magnet through a laser displacement sensor or a Hall sensor, and realizes accurate measurement of the pedal stroke, and uses a non-contact measurement method to reduce wear and mechanical failure.
Improves the accuracy of pedal stroke measurement and system reliability, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances measurement stability and durability in complex environments.
Smart Images

Figure CN223279092U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of vehicle braking, in particular to a sensor assembly, a measuring unit, a braking system and a vehicle. Background Art
[0002] This section is intended to provide background information relevant to understanding the various technologies described herein. As the title of this section implies, this is a discussion of related technologies that should not in any way be considered prior art. Therefore, it should be understood that any statements in this section should be read in this light, rather than as admissions of prior art.
[0003] According to the requirements of GB 12676 and GB / T 13594, vehicle braking systems, such as electronic braking systems (EBS), are widely used in commercial vehicles (CVs). The pedal travel sensor (PTS) is an essential sensor for the brake pedal module of a braking system. The PTS's primary function, for example, is to convert pedal displacement into a pulse-width modulated (PWM) position signal and transmit it to the brake control unit (BCU) of the braking system.
[0004] However, the components of current pedal travel sensors are complex, involving the design of many moving parts and the application of different materials, which means that the cost of designing, verifying and manufacturing the pedal travel sensor is high. Utility Model Content
[0005] According to various aspects, the present disclosure aims to achieve sensing of the travel position of a pedal rod in a cost-effective manner.
[0006] Furthermore, the present disclosure aims to solve or at least alleviate one or more problems existing in the prior art.
[0007] The present disclosure solves the above-mentioned problems by providing a sensor assembly, a measurement unit, a braking system, and a vehicle. Specifically, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the present disclosure provides:
[0008] A sensor assembly for a measurement unit of brake pedal stroke, wherein the sensor assembly includes a motion module and a guide frame, the motion module can move with the movement of the brake pedal rod so that the movement of the motion module can reflect the brake pedal stroke, and the motion module is slidably connected to the guide frame.
[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a measuring unit for brake pedal stroke is provided, wherein the measuring unit includes any one of the above-mentioned sensor assemblies, and the measuring unit also includes a second sub-housing and a connecting member, the connecting member is movably arranged at least partially in the second sub-housing and is used to be connected to the brake pedal rod, and the motion module moves with the movement of the connecting member.
[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a braking system is provided, wherein the braking system includes any one of the above-mentioned measuring units and a brake pedal rod, wherein the brake pedal rod is connected to the connecting member.
[0011] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided, wherein the vehicle includes the above-mentioned braking system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The above and other features of the present disclosure will become apparent with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a measuring unit according to the present disclosure;
[0014] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a measurement unit according to the present disclosure;
[0015] Figure 3 A plan view of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure toward the interior of a first sub-housing is shown;
[0016] Figure 4 A diagram showing the coordination relationship between a guide frame, a motion module, and a micro switch of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown;
[0017] Figure 5 A diagram showing the coordination relationship between a motion module and a spring of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown;
[0018] Figure 6 A perspective view of a guide frame of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown;
[0019] Figure 7 A perspective view of another sensor assembly according to the present disclosure toward the interior of the first sub-housing is shown;
[0020] Figure 8 A diagram showing the coordination relationship between a motion module and a micro switch of another sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown;
[0021] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a first sub-housing of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;
[0022] Figure 10A diagram showing the matching relationship between a first sub-housing and a circuit board of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown; and
[0023] Figure 11 A diagram showing the mating relationship between the terminals of a sensor assembly and a circuit board according to the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] It is easy to understand that according to the technical solution of the present disclosure, without changing the essential spirit of the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can propose a variety of interchangeable structural methods and implementation methods. Therefore, the following specific embodiments and drawings are only exemplary descriptions of the technical solution of the present disclosure and should not be regarded as the entire disclosure or as a limitation or restriction of the technical solution of the present disclosure.
[0025] The terms "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," "back," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom" mentioned or potentially mentioned in this specification are defined relative to the structures shown in the accompanying drawings. They are relative concepts and may vary depending on their location or usage. Therefore, these or other directional terms should not be interpreted as restrictive. In addition, the terms "first," "second," "third," and similar expressions are used only for descriptive and distinguishing purposes and should not be understood to indicate or imply the relative importance of the corresponding components.
[0026] refer to Figures 1 to 4 ,in, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a measuring unit according to the present disclosure; Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a measurement unit according to the present disclosure; Figure 3 A plan view of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure toward the interior of the first sub-housing is shown; and Figure 4 A diagram showing the coordination relationship among a guide frame, a motion module, and a micro switch of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown.
[0027] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sensor assembly of a measuring unit 100 for brake pedal stroke, wherein the sensor assembly includes a motion module 3 and a guide frame 4, the motion module 3 can move with the movement of the brake pedal rod, so that the movement of the motion module 3 can reflect the brake pedal stroke, and the motion module 3 is slidably connected to the guide frame 4.
[0028] It should be noted that the brake pedal stroke can also be understood as the position of the brake pedal or the stroke or position of the brake pedal rod, both of which can be measured using this measurement unit. When the driver steps on the brake, the pedal drives the pedal rod to perform a corresponding braking movement, and the pedal rod directly or indirectly drives the motion module to perform a corresponding movement. Therefore, by measuring the movement (e.g., displacement) of the motion module, for example, Figure 2 From the perspective of , the movement is a lifting movement or a vertical movement, so that the brake pedal stroke can be obtained.
[0029] By associating the motion module with the brake pedal rod, the sensor assembly can accurately reflect the brake pedal's travel in real time, ensuring the accuracy of measurement results, which is crucial for performance monitoring and debugging of vehicle braking systems. Furthermore, in this example, a specially designed guide frame is used to support and guide the movement of the motion module, allowing the motion module (e.g., the magnet described later) to be guided and thus accurately track and reflect the travel or position of the brake pedal rod, ensuring reliable measurement results. Thus, the guide frame design regulates the sliding movement of the motion module, ensuring smooth movement of the motion module during measurement and enhancing the structural stability of the entire sensor assembly. This design helps reduce measurement errors caused by vibration or external interference, improving the reliability and durability of the sensor.
[0030] It is feasible that the sensor assembly includes a first sub-housing 11, the motion module 3 is at least partially disposed within the first sub-housing 11, and the guide frame 4 is fixedly disposed within the first sub-housing 11. The first sub-housing provides solid support and protection for the entire sensor assembly, while the fixed arrangement of the guide frame ensures the stability and guidance of the motion module during the measurement process, thereby helping to reduce measurement errors caused by external interference (such as vibration, impact, etc.) and improving the durability and reliability of the sensor assembly.
[0031] Alternatively, the sensor assembly may further include a sensing module 5 disposed within the first sub-housing 11, configured to sense the motion of the motion module 3. The sensing module can detect the motion state of the motion module in real time, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of data and improving the response speed and accuracy of the braking system. The sensing module and motion module provide a modular design and structure for the sensor assembly, facilitating system integration and subsequent maintenance or expansion.
[0032] As a specific sensing method, a laser displacement sensor can be used to measure distance changes. Specifically, a reflective surface (such as a mirror or reflective sticker) is placed on the motion module, and the sensing module is equipped with a laser displacement sensor. When the motion module moves, the distance between the reflective surface and the sensor changes. The laser displacement sensor measures and outputs this distance change in real time. This value can be used to determine the displacement of the motion module, and therefore the travel of the brake pedal. Similarly, the principle of an optical sensor can be employed: a light shield or reflective surface is placed on the motion module, and the sensing module is equipped with an optical sensor. When the motion module moves, the light shield blocks or reflects the light signal emitted by the light source. The optical receiver receives this changing light signal and converts it into an electrical signal for output. By interpreting this change in electrical signal, the displacement of the motion module, and therefore the travel of the brake pedal, can be determined. Alternatively, the travel of the brake pedal can be determined based on the change in capacitance or resistance caused by the motion of the motion module. The principle of Hall effect sensing will be explained in detail later.
[0033] Combine Figure 5 , which shows a diagram of the matching relationship between a motion module and a spring of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure.
[0034] The motion module 3 includes a bracket 31 and a magnet 32 fixed to the bracket 31 . The sensor module 5 can sense the magnetic field change of the magnet 32 and output a response signal.
[0035] This technical solution provides a measurement principle and specific construction method of the measuring unit. That is, the sensing of the change in the position of the magnet is achieved by sensing the change in the magnetic field of the magnet by the sensing module, and then the stroke of the connector and the pedal rod can be obtained. Specifically, for example, the sensor assembly of the measuring unit can be based on the principle of the Hall sensor or the Hall effect. Specifically, the sensing module can convert the changing magnetic field (the magnetic field surrounding the sensing module) into a change in the output voltage, and perform signal processing, for example, through an analysis and processing system or a processing circuit, and then output a pulse-width modulated position signal to the corresponding system, such as the brake control unit of the electronic braking system. This measurement method is relatively less susceptible to interference from environmental factors such as light and temperature, and can maintain good measurement performance under complex or harsh environmental conditions, thereby obtaining a high-precision, high-efficiency, cost-controlled and wide-frequency response range measurement system. The sensing range is, for example, 0 to 10 mm.
[0036] In this technical solution, the bracket transmits motion to the brake pedal rod and securely supports the magnet, while the magnet reflects the bracket's position changes. This allows for targeted design and maintenance, each facilitating its own specific functions. Furthermore, position measurement can be achieved without physical contact between the magnet and sensor module, allowing for relatively independent placement and greater flexibility. This non-contact measurement method reduces wear and the potential for mechanical failure, improving system reliability and durability.
[0037] Structurally, the bracket features a platform for arranging the magnets. The magnets are formed from a series of rectangular structures, creating a large surface area to achieve a wider measurement or sensing range. The bracket also features a protrusion on the other side for mating with the brake pedal lever, which will be described further below.
[0038] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the measuring unit 100 further includes a spring 6 , wherein the spring 6 is abutted between the bracket 31 and the guide frame 4 , and the spring 6 is used to apply a spring force to the bracket 31 .
[0039] It should be noted that the spring has multiple functions. On the one hand, the spring can ensure that the relative position of the bracket and the connector remains fixed, thereby ensuring that the stroke of the pedal rod can be accurately reflected in the position change of the bracket. On the other hand, when the bracket is assembled into the housing, due to the spring force, the bracket can be pressed against the inner surface of the housing, giving the user sensory feedback that the installation is complete. Those skilled in the art can adjust the spring coefficient, material, quantity, series-parallel connection mode, size, shape, etc. of the spring to obtain the desired spring force characteristics. In addition, according to the present technical solution, it can be seen that in addition to being used to guide and support the movement of the bracket, the guide frame also provides a layout space for the spring. Therefore, the guide frame plays multiple roles and effects on the entire motion module and the force applied to the motion module. In addition, the spring can also act as a shock absorber or buffer, which can absorb or disperse the impact and vibration generated by the system, helping to improve the dynamic stability and response speed of the system.
[0040] Combine Figure 6 , which shows a perspective view of a guide frame of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure.
[0041] A guide groove 41 and a movement space 42 are defined in the first portion of the guide frame 4 . The bracket 31 is slidably engaged with the guide groove 41 and can slide in the movement space 42 .
[0042] According to the technical solution, the present disclosure has made a special design for the guide frame, which provides a unified integrated or centralized layout for the interaction between the motion module, the spring and the micro switch mentioned later. Figure 6 Taking the perspective of as an example, the first part of the guide frame is illustratively the middle part.
[0043] It is particularly important to mention here that the two end faces of the guide slot can be designed differently. The side wall facing the lower right, or the side wall of the guide slot facing the connector, has a greater width than the opposite side wall. Therefore, on the one hand, it provides a larger motion guide area for the bracket, ensuring the controllability and stability of the motion. On the other hand, the smaller width of the opposite side wall can provide a larger layout space for the magnet, allowing a larger magnet to be fixedly connected to the end face of the bracket facing the sensor module, thereby achieving a larger sensing range. The design of the motion space provides a larger space and leeway for the movement of the motion module. Together with the guide slot, the motion module has a high degree of concentration and compactness, is lightweight and easy to install and maintain, simplifies the overall structure, and provides design space for the coordination between the bracket and the connector.
[0044] The guide groove is illustratively constructed vertically along the height direction to better adapt to the travel direction of the connecting member and the pedal rod. This provides a precise movement path for the bracket, ensuring the bracket's directionality and stability during movement, helping to reduce errors caused by offset or shaking, improving the system's accuracy and reliability. It also absorbs or disperses vibration and shock generated during system operation to a certain extent, thereby protecting the bracket and its components from damage and extending the system's service life. Those skilled in the art will be able to flexibly adjust the layout of the guide groove according to, for example, the travel direction of the pedal rod.
[0045] It can also be seen that the first part is constructed with a support column 43 extending into the motion space 42, and the spring 6 is sleeved on the support column 43. It can be seen that the technical solution provides a centralized and compact matching space for the spring and the motion module through the design of the support column of the guide frame. The support column is exemplarily constructed as a column with a cross-shaped cross-section, which has higher torsion resistance and can better resist the torsional force generated by spring deformation, maintain the stability and reliability of the structure, and facilitate the fixing, installation and maintenance of the spring, reducing the difficulty and cost of installation. It also provides a stable support point for the spring, ensuring that the spring can maintain a stable shape and force when compressed or extended, thereby improving the accuracy of measurement and the stability of the system. The support column also plays a guiding role, ensuring that the spring can move along a predetermined path when compressed or extended, reducing errors caused by deviation or shaking. In addition, the cross-shaped cross-section is easy to process and standardized production, and the cost is controllable. It also enables the support column to more evenly distribute stress when subjected to force, maintain stability, and is less likely to deform or lose stability, avoiding damage caused by local stress concentration, helping to extend the service life of the support column and improve the reliability of the system.
[0046] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensing module 5 includes a circuit board 51, a sensing chip 52 arranged on the circuit board 51, and a micro switch 53. The micro switch 53 can be triggered by the movement of the bracket 31, and the sensing chip 52 is used to sense the magnetic field changes of the magnet 32.
[0047] It should be understood that the sensor chip cooperates with the magnet to sense the magnetic field changes of the magnet. To this end, the sensor chip is, for example, an ASIC chip (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or is further connected to or includes an analysis component and a transmission circuit for data processing or signal processing as described above. In this example, the sensor chip is arranged on the side of the circuit board facing the magnet so as to have a good sensing range and accuracy. The sensor chip is illustratively constructed in the middle of the circuit board, and multiple sensor chips can be provided if necessary, for example, to obtain a more comprehensive result by averaging.
[0048] A microswitch is a switch with a relatively small contact spacing and is also known as a sensitive switch, snap-action switch, or tactile switch. It is triggered by a motion module, such as a bracket, and can be designed to interface with the vehicle's electronic braking system and the circuit board of the measurement unit. Specifically, when the microswitch is not triggered, it can be assumed that the driver has not yet applied the brakes. In this case, to reduce energy consumption and costs, the vehicle's electronic braking system is not activated, and the sensor chip on the circuit board is inoperative. When the driver applies the brakes, the pedal rod descends, and the downward movement of the connector to the bracket triggers the microswitch. This awakens the electronic braking system, and the circuit board and its chip begin operating, outputting a response signal indicating pedal travel. This demonstrates that the microswitch design strikes a balance between power consumption control and pedal travel sensing. Furthermore, microswitches are compact, durable, reliable, and highly accurate.
[0049] As for the relationship between the micro switch and the guide frame, illustratively, the second portion of the guide frame 4 is provided with a through hole 44 , and the micro switch 53 can interact with the bracket 31 via the through hole 44 .
[0050] by Figure 6From the perspective of the guide frame, the second part is, for example, the right side. Therefore, combined with the previous description of the first part of the guide frame, it can be seen that the guide frame not only provides motion guidance and fixed support for the motion module and spring, but also supports the linkage between the motion module and the micro switch. It has multiple functions and fully utilizes the layout space provided by the guide frame, making the entire system highly centralized and compact, providing a reliable and precise way to monitor and control the movement of the bracket, thereby improving the responsiveness and accuracy of the entire system.
[0051] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 ,in, Figure 7 A perspective view of another sensor assembly according to the present disclosure, viewed toward the interior of the first sub-housing, is shown; and Figure 8 A diagram showing the matching relationship between a motion module and a micro switch of another sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown.
[0052] The micro switch 53 is constructed as a mechanical micro switch or a photoelectric micro switch. Figure 4 The micro switch is a mechanical micro switch. Figure 7 、 8 A photoelectric microswitch is shown as an example. Each type has its own unique advantages. Mechanical microswitches offer high sensitivity, simple structure, strong reliability, and flexible operation. Photoelectric microswitches, as non-contact switches, avoid wear, are easy to install, have strong anti-interference capabilities, and offer high precision. Those skilled in the art will be able to determine the appropriate type of microswitch based on the specific application scenario, cost budget, and performance requirements.
[0053] Regarding its operating principle, a mechanical microswitch exemplarily comprises a switch body and a moving portion that interacts with a bracket. As the bracket moves with the connector, the bracket contacts the moving portion, displacing it. This causes the moving portion to contact the contacts of the switch body, triggering the switch body. After the bracket's force on the moving portion is removed, the moving portion resets, disconnecting from the contacts and thereby deactivating the microswitch. The sensitivity and durability of the switch can be optimized by adjusting factors such as the elastic modulus of the moving portion (e.g., a reed), the shape and material of the contacts, and so on. For a photoelectric microswitch, a photoelectric sensor is exemplarily located within the switch. The sensor consists of a transmitter (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) and a receiver (e.g., a photodiode). When light emitted by the transmitter is blocked or reflected by the bracket, the light intensity received by the receiver changes, triggering the opening and closing of the circuit. The detection range and accuracy of the microswitch can be optimized by adjusting factors such as the position, angle, and sensitivity of the transmitter and receiver. Furthermore, the impact of environmental factors (e.g., light interference) on switch performance can be considered, and appropriate measures can be taken to compensate or shield it.
[0054] For example, combining Figure 1 and Figure 2 It can also be seen that the magnet 32 is arranged in the first subhousing 11 .
[0055] It can be seen from this that the magnet and the sensor module are arranged in the same housing (the first sub-housing), so the magnet and the sensor module, which mainly play a measuring role, are arranged in the same housing, which improves the compactness and integration of the entire unit, and can also have stronger anti-interference and measurement accuracy, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the interaction between the two. In addition, this method can also bring better installation convenience, because on the one hand, it reduces the number of parts or assembly complexity in the second sub-housing to be introduced later, and on the other hand, the magnet in the first sub-housing only needs to be arranged in a certain way (as explained above) without having to be arranged on the connector in a complicated way or steps. It can also be seen from this that the first sub-housing is mainly responsible for the sensing part, and the second sub-housing is mainly responsible for the stroke transmission part with the pedal rod. The two can be designed specifically according to their respective responsibilities, and the bracket serves as a bridge between the sensor module and the pedal rod or the connector, and is at least partially arranged in the first sub-housing and the second sub-housing.
[0056] Combine Figure 3 and Figure 10 ,in, Figure 10 A diagram showing the matching relationship between a first sub-housing and a circuit board of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure is shown.
[0057] The circuit board 51 is connected to the first sub-housing 11 by heat riveting ( Figure 10 ), the guide frame 4 is connected to the first sub-shell 11 by heat riveting ( Figure 3 ). The meaning and implementation of thermal riveting should be understood. Exemplarily, the housing is constructed with a protrusion, and the circuit board and the guide frame are provided with a through opening, and the protrusion can extend through the opening to achieve assembly of the circuit board or the guide frame with the housing. Thereafter, the protrusion is melted and expanded by heating, and after cooling and solidification, a tight and reliable connection is formed with the opening. Similarly, the protrusion is also constructed to be symmetrical so that the connection stress is evenly distributed. The protrusion exemplarily includes a first protrusion 113 of the first sub-housing for connecting to the guide frame and a second protrusion 114 of the first sub-housing for connecting to the circuit board.
[0058] The advantages of heat riveting include high efficiency, enhanced connection strength, wide material applicability, and advantages in the processing process (no vibration, no noise). It is also known that other connection methods, such as mounting, threading, clamping, welding, gluing, locking, etc., can also be applied.
[0059] In order to power the sensor components of the measurement unit and transmit signals, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing 1 (e.g., the first sub-housing) is formed with an interface 13, and the sensor module 5 (e.g., a circuit board) is powered and outputs the response signal via the interface 13. Figure 2 For example, the interface is opened and extended to the left, that is, it is constructed at the end of the first sub-housing away from the second sub-housing so that there is sufficient space for the docking connector. The connector can cooperate with the terminals in the first sub-housing to achieve power supply and support signal transmission. In this regard, the shape design of the terminals and the interface can be determined in combination with the characteristics of the connector. For example, the interface is constructed in the shape of a rounded rectangle and has a certain accommodation space to facilitate the arrangement of a portion of the terminal and the connector.
[0060] Combine Figure 11 , which shows a diagram of the matching relationship between the terminals and the circuit board of a sensor component according to the present disclosure.
[0061] The sensor component of the measuring unit 100 includes a terminal 8 , and the terminal 8 is electrically connected to the sensor module 5 via the interface 13 .
[0062] It should be noted that the shape, size, quantity, etc. of the terminals can be determined according to the requirements of the connector to be connected. The connector is used to power the circuit board of the sensor module, and the sensor chip on the circuit board can output signals via the connector. Moreover, the shapes of the terminals are not necessarily the same. In terms of process, the circuit board of the sensor module and the first sub-shell can be connected by welding through the terminals, which is efficient and strong. For example, a total of seven terminals are used in this example, of which four identical terminals and the other three identical terminals are arranged in rows, the former are relatively small, and the latter are larger. The structure of the terminal as a whole has a main body and an extension portion extending from the main body to both sides. The extension portion facing left or outward is longer, and the difference in width mainly creates the difference in terminals of different specifications.
[0063] The present disclosure also relates to a measuring unit 100 for brake pedal stroke, wherein the measuring unit 100 includes any one of a sensor assembly, the measuring unit 100 also includes a second sub-housing 12 and a connecting member 2, the connecting member 2 is movably arranged at least partially in the second sub-housing 12 and is used to be connected to the brake pedal rod, and the motion module 3 moves with the movement of the connecting member 2.
[0064] Therefore, the measurement unit of the present disclosure inherits various embodiments and corresponding technical effects of the sensor assembly, which will not be described in detail here. However, it should be understood that when the driver steps on the brake, the pedal drives the pedal rod to make corresponding braking movements, and the pedal rod in turn drives the connecting member (sometimes also called tappet or valve cylinder) to make corresponding movements, for example Figure 2 From the perspective of , the movement is a lifting movement or a vertical movement, and the connecting part then drives the motion module (including the magnet) to make a corresponding movement. This movement will cause the magnetic field of the magnet to change, and this magnetic field change is sensed by the sensing module, which then outputs a response signal. Based on the response signal, those skilled in the art can directly or indirectly obtain the pedal stroke. In this regard, the side where the connecting part of the measuring unit is located can also be regarded as a BPM (Braking Pedal Module) for the electronic braking system, and the side where the sensing module is located can be called a sensor assembly or a pedal stroke sensor. As mentioned above, the first sub-shell and the second sub-shell can be more specifically constructed for the sensing function and the motion transmission function, respectively.
[0065] Combine Figure 2 and Figure 3 It can be seen that the first sub-housing 11 is provided with a bushing 111, and the first sub-housing 11 and the second sub-housing 12 are threadedly connected via the bushing 111. The threaded connection is achieved, for example, by means of metal bolts. As a result, the bushing can provide a certain degree of wear protection, and can also absorb the extrusion force generated when bolting, thereby protecting the first sub-housing. In the case where the first sub-housing is made by injection molding, the bushing can prevent the plastic material of the first sub-housing from creeping during the bolting process, thereby improving reliability. The bushing itself is exemplarily constructed as a hollow cylinder, and is installed in the holes designed for this purpose by the first sub-housing and arranged at its four top corners, and then the first sub-housing is connected to the second sub-housing, for example, by means of a threaded connection.
[0066] Combine Figure 9 , which shows a perspective view of a first sub-housing of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure.
[0067] The measuring unit 100 further includes a sealing ring 7 . A groove 112 is formed on the end surface of the first sub-housing 11 . The sealing ring 7 is arranged in the groove 112 and sealably abuts against the circumference of the second sub-housing 12 .
[0068] It should be understood that the sealing ring is used to prevent air leakage, water, dust, etc. to achieve sealing. In particular, the sealing ring is arranged between the first sub-shell and the second sub-shell to achieve sealing at the connection point between the two. It can be understood that the specific arrangement position of the sealing ring can be determined according to the assembly relationship and shape of the two sub-shells. In this example, the second sub-shell is a hollow cylinder as a whole, but is constructed with a flat flange surface in the direction toward the first sub-shell. For this purpose, the first sub-shell is constructed with a corresponding abutment surface in the direction toward the second sub-shell, and the sealing ring is further installed in the form of a guide groove so that the sealing ring can abut the circumferential surface of the second sub-shell, or can also abut the two sub-shells at the same time to complete the sealing. In addition, the annular or closed structure can also ensure the comprehensiveness of the seal. It can also be known that in addition to the sealing method of the sealing ring, the sealing effect can also be achieved by annular welding and other methods.
[0069] Finally, combine Figure 2 The specific cooperation between the connector and the bracket is explained below. For example, the outer periphery of the connector 2 is provided with a recessed portion 21 , and the motion module 3 , such as the bracket 31 , is engaged with the recessed portion 21 .
[0070] The connecting member can be constructed as a rotating body, such as a structure based on a cylinder, and is provided with a corresponding blind hole to engage with the pedal rod. Figure 2 As can be seen, the main part of the bracket is arranged in the first sub-housing, while the secondary part (such as the part of the bracket that is used to engage with the connector) is arranged in the second sub-housing. The magnet is fixedly arranged in the main part, optionally close to one side of the sensing unit to obtain better measurement results. Therefore, the movement of the connector drives the movement of the bracket, and the movement of the bracket drives the movement of the magnet. The sensor module then senses the change in the magnetic field of the magnet to generate a response signal.
[0071] According to this technical solution, the bracket cooperates with the recessed portion on the outer periphery of the connector to transmit the movement of the connector to the bracket. This direct and efficient motion transmission method provides high transmission efficiency, simplifies the structure, and ensures connection stability. Those skilled in the art will understand that the location of the connector's recessed portion and its engagement with the bracket, as well as the dimensions of the first and second sub-housings, should ensure a wide measurement range, preferably capable of measuring the entire pedal stroke of the pedal rod.
[0072] It is particularly mentioned here that due to the design of the spring, that is, the spring applies spring force to the bracket, so that the bracket can always be in contact with the upper surface of the recessed portion of the connector (that is, the bracket is pushed to the upper surface of the recessed portion of the connector), thereby ensuring the stability of the relative positions of the two and the reliability of the measurement results.
[0073] The present disclosure also relates to a braking system, wherein the braking system includes any of the aforementioned measurement units 100 and a brake pedal rod connected to the connector 2; and a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes the aforementioned braking system. For details on the implementation and technical effects of the braking system and vehicle, please refer to the above-mentioned content regarding the sensor assembly and the measurement unit.
[0074] It should be understood that all the above preferred embodiments are illustrative rather than restrictive, and that various modifications or variations made by those skilled in the art to the above-described specific embodiments under the concept of the present disclosure should be within the legal protection scope of the present disclosure.
Claims
1. A sensor assembly for a brake pedal travel measuring unit (100), characterized in that The sensor assembly comprises a motion module (3) and a guide frame (4); the motion module (3) can move along with the movement of a brake pedal rod, so that the movement of the motion module (3) can reflect the brake pedal stroke; the motion module (3) is slidably connected to the guide frame (4).
2. The sensor assembly according to claim 1, wherein The sensor assembly comprises a first sub-housing (11), the motion module (3) is at least partially arranged in the first sub-housing (11), and the guide frame (4) is fixedly arranged in the first sub-housing (11).
3. The sensor assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The sensor assembly further comprises a sensing module (5) arranged in the first sub-housing (11), wherein the sensing module (5) is configured to sense the movement of the motion module (3).
4. The sensor assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The motion module (3) comprises a bracket (31) and a magnet (32) fixed to the bracket (31); the sensing module (5) is capable of sensing changes in the magnetic field of the magnet (32) and outputting a response signal; the magnet (32) is arranged in the first sub-housing (11).
5. The sensor assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The sensor assembly further comprises a spring (6), wherein the spring (6) is in contact between the bracket (31) and the guide frame (4), and the spring (6) is used to apply a spring force to the bracket (31).
6. The sensor assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that The first portion of the guide frame (4) is provided with a guide groove (41) and a movement space (42); the bracket (31) is slidably engaged with the guide groove (41) and is capable of sliding movement in the movement space (42).
7. The sensor assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The first part is constructed with a support column (43) extending into the movement space (42), and the spring (6) is sleeved on the support column (43).
8. The sensor assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The sensing module (5) comprises a circuit board (51), a sensing chip (52) arranged on the circuit board (51), and a micro switch (53), wherein the micro switch (53) can be triggered by the movement of the bracket (31), and the sensing chip (52) is used to sense the change in the magnetic field of the magnet (32).
9. The sensor assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The micro switch (53) is configured as a mechanical micro switch or a photoelectric micro switch.
10. The sensor assembly according to claim 8, wherein The second portion of the guide frame (4) is provided with a through hole (44), and the micro switch (53) can interact with the bracket (31) via the through hole (44).
11. The sensor assembly according to claim 8, wherein The circuit board (51) and the first sub-housing (11) are connected by thermal riveting, and the guide frame (4) and the first sub-housing (11) are connected by thermal riveting.
12. The sensor assembly according to claim 4, wherein The first sub-housing (11) is formed with an interface (13), and the sensor module (5) is powered via the interface (13) and outputs the response signal.
13. The sensor assembly according to claim 12, wherein: The sensor assembly comprises a terminal (8), and the terminal (8) is electrically connected to the sensor module (5) via the interface (13).
14. A measuring unit (100) for brake pedal travel, characterized in that The measuring unit (100) includes a sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and the measuring unit (100) also includes a second sub-housing (12) and a connecting member (2), wherein the connecting member (2) is movably arranged at least partially in the second sub-housing (12) and is used to be connected to the brake pedal rod, and the movement module (3) moves with the movement of the connecting member (2).
15. The measuring unit (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that The first sub-housing (11) is provided with a bushing (111), and the first sub-housing (11) and the second sub-housing (12) are threadedly connected via the bushing (111).
16. The measuring unit (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that The measuring unit (100) further comprises a sealing ring (7); the end surface of the first sub-housing (11) is configured with a groove (112); the sealing ring (7) is arranged in the groove (112) and sealably abuts against the circumference of the second sub-housing (12).
17. The measuring unit (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that A recessed portion (21) is provided on the outer periphery of the connecting member (2), and the motion module (3) is coupled to the recessed portion (21).
18. A braking system, characterized in that: The brake system comprises a measuring unit (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 17 and a brake pedal rod, which is connected to the connecting element (2).
19. A vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle includes a braking system according to claim 18.