Pedalanordnung

Abstract

The present invention relates to an accelerator pedal arrangement (1) comprising -- a housing (2) with an inner wall (3); -- a pedal element (4) that can be moved along an actuation direction (Z) between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2); -- a return element (5) that forces the pedal element (4), especially in the unpowered state, into the first position (P1); -- an elastically reversibly deformable impact damping device (6) with at least two impact elements (7a, 7b) which are spatially separated from each other, wherein a third position (P3) is provided in an initial area (A) of an actuation path (B) of the pedal element (4), which is located between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), wherein in the third position (P3) the pedal element (4) and the inner wall (3) of the housing (2) are coupled to the at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) and in particular bear against the at least two stop elements (7a, 7b), wherein at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) are elastically deformed when the pedal element (4) is moved from the third position (P3) towards the first position (P1).

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to a pedal arrangement. State of the art

[0002] The present invention relates to a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly is particularly suitable for use in a vehicle, for example as an accelerator pedal and / or brake pedal and / or clutch pedal.

[0003] Brake pedals are known from the prior art. These usually have a spring, typically a coil spring or similar. This spring is compressed when the brake pedal is pressed. The design of the spring allows for the adjustment of the pedal's feel, which is experienced by the driver when the brake pedal is pressed. If a brake pedal assembly is to be used for different vehicle types, the spring must always be adapted to the corresponding vehicle-specific requirements.

[0004] In such pedal arrangements, the pedal element is typically movable between a first position (e.g., starting position) and a second position (e.g., end position) along an actuation path. The pedal element is usually forced into the first position by an elastic return element (e.g., a spring).

[0005] In pedal arrangements that mechanically transmit driver input (e.g., via a Bowden cable or hydraulic system, etc.) to an associated actuator (e.g., clutch, brake, torque converter), the movement of a pedal element upon sudden release from a depressed position towards the end of its return stroke can be dampened by increasing resistance in the mechanical coupling. This prevents the pedal element from striking the housing, or at least delays its impact, upon reaching the initial position into which it is forced by the return element. Besides such mechanical pedal arrangements, so-called electrical or electronic pedal arrangements are known. In these, the position of a pedal element is detected, for example, by a sensor, and a sensor signal is transmitted to an evaluation unit. The actual actuator (e.g.,(A clutch, a brake, or a torque actuator) is then actuated depending on the sensor signal. With such electrical or electronic pedal arrangements, high precision in determining the position of the pedal element may require that, in the unpressed state, the pedal element assumes its first position very precisely and with very low tolerance (e.g., less than 1 mm or even less than 0.7 mm) over the entire lifetime of the pedal arrangement (sensor zero position).

[0006] From DE 20 2004 004 455 U1, a pedal for a vehicle is known in which tension spring elements are arranged between a base plate element and a pedal element. These tension spring elements are held in place on the base plate element by spring retaining elements, and further spring retaining elements are held on the pedal element. The pedal position is determined by means of a sensor. Disclosure of the invention

[0007] The invention is based on the understanding that, particularly in electronic or electric pedal assemblies, a sudden release from the depressed position ("snap-back") can cause the pedal element to strike the housing in which or on which it is mounted. This can generate a loud noise (e.g., more than 100 dB) that may startle or be perceived as unpleasant by the operator. Furthermore, over the lifespan of the pedal assembly, the housing can be damaged if the pedal element strikes the housing hard. Internal simulations and tests conducted by the applicant have also shown that during such a snap-back, the pedal element can briefly impact the housing (e.g.,(to an inner wall of a pedal assembly housing) even overshoots the first position and only settles statically into the first position after a decay time (when the first position is mentioned in the following text in connection with an impact or coupling, the static situation after the decay time is always meant, unless otherwise stated). This can occur particularly during the unbraked snap back from the second position to the first position, as the acceleration path of the pedal element through the return element is longest here. It has been shown that the overshoot of the pedal element beyond the first position can also lead to a bending of the housing in the impact area; the housing can, for example, warp, with the center of the housing being warped furthest upwards (away from the pedal element), depending on the design of the pedal assembly (inverted U-shape).This, in turn, can lead to the lateral areas of the inner wall facing the pedal element being (temporarily) lower than usual relative to the center of the inner wall, or even lower than the center of the inner wall (in the lid area of ​​the housing), even if the center and lateral areas would be aligned under normal conditions. These lateral areas of the inner wall can (temporarily) come into contact with the edges of the pedal element, meaning that (due to the upward-curving center of the housing) a very small area (the lateral areas) of the housing has to absorb and dissipate the impulse from the pedal element, which amplifies the noise and places a high stress on the material.At the same time, internal simulations by the applicant have shown that providing particularly thick stop elements between the inner wall and the pedal element to receive the impulse can lead to the zero position of a position sensor not being reliably defined for every application in an electronic pedal, especially if the stop element ages and its thickness changes, or if the stop element is removed or forgotten during assembly and the pedal element thus rests against the inner wall itself.

[0008] Therefore, there may be a need to provide a pedal arrangement, particularly without mechanical coupling to an actuator or with, for example, electrical or electronic transmission of a pedal position, in which a hard impact of the pedal element on the housing is avoided, in which the level of noise generation is reduced, and in which, ideally, the first position of the pedal element is reached with a very low tolerance over its lifetime (e.g., with more than 10,000 sudden releases from the second position) (e.g., a maximum deviation of 1 mm from the target position or even a maximum deviation of 0.7 mm from the target position, preferably a maximum deviation of 0.5 mm from the target position). Advantages of the invention

[0009] This need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, a pedal arrangement is proposed.

[0011] The accelerator pedal assembly comprises a housing with an inner wall, a pedal element displaceable along an actuation direction between a first position and a second position, a return element that forces the pedal element into the first position, particularly in the unforced state, and an elastically reversible deformable stop damping device with at least two stop elements that are spatially separated from one another. An X-direction runs transversely to the actuation direction, and a Y-direction runs transversely to both the actuation direction and the X-direction. A third position is provided in the initial region of the pedal element's actuation path, located between the first and second positions. In the third position, both the pedal element and the inner wall of the housing are coupled to the at least two stop elements, respectively.The at least two stop elements, or at least two of the stop elements, are elastically deformed when the pedal element is moved from the third position towards the first position, or they are elastically deformed in the first position.

[0012] By providing the impact damping device with at least two spatially separated impact elements, it is advantageously achieved that a hard impact against the inner wall of the housing is prevented when the pedal element snaps back towards the first position, and that damage to the housing and / or the pedal arm or the pedal element caused by such a hard impact is avoided. Furthermore, this reduces the noise generated when the pedal element stops, e.g., to a maximum of 90 dB, or preferably to a maximum of 80 dB, or particularly preferably to a maximum of 70 dB. Finally, the impact damping device reduces the risk of the (static) first position being misaligned over its service life, since the high impulse of the pedal element is dissipated over a longer distance (without an impact damping device, for example, a force of more than 3000 N can be exerted by the pedal element on the inner wall).The design with at least two stop elements advantageously provides redundancy in case one of the stop elements is lost, incorrectly installed, forgotten, or subject to material fatigue over time, such as a change in some of its properties (e.g., its elasticity). The spatial separation of the stop elements allows for targeted damping at particularly critical, spaced-apart points (e.g., edges, corners, or borders of the housing or pedal element) without requiring a single, one-piece stop element with large dimensions (e.g., considerable length in the Y-direction and / or considerable thickness along the direction of actuation). This advantageously simplifies assembly, reduces material usage, and minimizes the risk of an imprecise zero position due to variability in the initial position.Due to the potentially small thickness of the stop elements, the gap between the pedal element and the inner wall of the housing can be kept small in the static case (e.g., at most 1 mm, preferably at most 0.7 mm, particularly preferably at most 0.55 mm). This means that, advantageously, even if one or more stop elements are missing (in which case the gap can be reduced or disappear entirely), the zero position of a position sensor can still be sufficiently close to the target position to ensure reliable operation of the accelerator pedal assembly.

[0013] In the coupled state, the pedal element on the one hand and the inner wall on the other can, for example, rest against at least two stop elements or come into mechanical contact with at least two of the stop elements. The pedal element can, for example, rest against or be in mechanical contact with a first side of the respective stop element, and the inner wall can, for example, rest against a second side of the respective stop element, with the second side facing away from the first side.

[0014] The initial travel of the actuation path can, for example, extend from the first position to the third position. This initial travel path can, for example, constitute a very small fraction of the total travel path. For instance, the initial travel path within the spatial area of ​​the impact damping device can correspond to a distance of at most 1 mm, or at most 0.5 mm, or at most 0.3 mm, or at most 0.15 mm (with a total travel within the area or radius of the impact damping device of, for example, 5 mm to 40 mm, preferably in the range of 7 mm to 30 mm). The very small initial travel path, or the position of the third position very close to the first position, enables the pedal element to reach the first position with particularly low tolerance (even if one or more of the impact elements are missing or degraded), thus ensuring—in the case of an electronic or…electric pedal arrangement - a precise zero position of the position sensor is enabled.

[0015] If more than two stop elements are provided, it is not necessary for all stop elements to couple with the pedal element and the inner wall in the third position; at least two of the stop elements can couple with the pedal element and the inner wall. For example, it may be provided that one or more stop elements are designated as redundant stop elements. However, it is also possible for more than two stop elements, or even all stop elements, to couple with the pedal element and the inner wall in the third position.

[0016] Furthermore, if there are more than two stop elements in the first position, it is not necessary that all stop elements in the first position are elastically or elastically reversibly deformed; at least two of the stop elements can be elastically or elastically reversibly deformed in the first position or on the way from the third position to the first position.

[0017] The at least two stop elements can be arranged, for example, between the pedal element and the housing or the inner wall of the housing, particularly when viewed along the direction of actuation.

[0018] The displacement of the pedal element from first position P1 to second position P2 preferably occurs in the XZ plane.

[0019] The pedal element can be, for example, mounted inside the housing. The pedal element can be arranged on or in the housing in such a way that it would, for example with a pedal arm, strike an inner wall of the housing if the impact damping device were not present.

[0020] The deformation of the stop elements when the pedal element is moved from the third position towards the first position (and up to the first position and possibly even briefly beyond the first position when the pedal element snaps back) can, for example, be elastically reversible.

[0021] For example, a stop element can be made from a solid material (porosity does not preclude the term "solid material") without artificially introduced cavities that are well-defined in size, position and shape.

[0022] Alternatively, a stop element can also be designed with artificially or deliberately and well-defined recesses and / or cavities in order to specifically influence the elastic or elastically reversible behavior, regardless of the choice of material of the stop element.

[0023] The first position can, for example, represent a starting position. The second position can, for example, represent an end position. The actuation path can, for example, run between the first and second positions.

[0024] A particularly advantageous feature is that the pedal element is not coupled to the end-stop damping device in the range from the second to the third position. This allows the pedal element to move quickly and without resistance almost to the first position when released, so that, for example, the element to be actuated by the pedal assembly quickly returns to its initial state (e.g., a brake is released quickly). Furthermore, this allows for particularly low-friction and low-effort actuation of the pedal element. This enables, for example, the rapid and instantaneous initiation of braking, etc.

[0025] The pedal element can be coupled to the return element, for example. It can be coupled to the return element along its entire travel, for example, by being in mechanical contact. This advantageously enables particularly good control of the pedal element and / or provides reliable haptic feedback for the user.

[0026] For example, exactly one return element may be provided. However, multiple return elements may also be provided. Providing multiple return elements can improve the safety of the pedal assembly (redundancy). Multiple return elements can, for example, be designed to act in parallel with each other.

[0027] The at least one restoring element can, for example, be designed as a spring element. It can be, by way of example, designed as a helical spring or spiral spring. If several restoring elements are provided, then, for example, several spring elements can be provided that act parallel to each other. If a plurality of spring elements are provided as restoring elements, the spring elements can, for example, be arranged concentrically to each other or around each other, for example in the form of concentrically arranged helical springs.

[0028] Within the scope of this description, the terms exhibit and encompass are used synonymously, unless otherwise indicated.

[0029] In a further development, it is provided that the impact damping device is designed in such a way that the pedal element is spaced away from the inner wall of the housing in the first position.

[0030] This advantageously ensures that the position of the first position is defined solely by the damping device, resulting in a particularly low tolerance for this position. Furthermore, this design effectively prevents friction between the pedal element and the housing or its inner wall, thus avoiding abrasion and wear (e.g., from vibrations). It also effectively prevents noise (e.g., creaking) caused by friction between the pedal element and the housing. Additionally, the position of the first position is not altered by particles, dirt, or similar substances that can accumulate between the pedal element and the inner wall over time.

[0031] In a further development, it is provided that the impact damping device is designed in such a way that the pedal element does not strike the inner wall of the housing during an unbraked movement from the second position to the first position.

[0032] This effectively prevents damage to the housing or its inner wall and / or the pedal assembly. Furthermore, it effectively prevents loud noises caused by a hard stop. Finally, it ensures that the pedal assembly maintains a precise initial position over the long term.

[0033] In a further training course, it is stipulated that at least two stop elements are designed as separate elements.

[0034] This design offers the advantage of particularly simple and flexible assembly. Furthermore, the stop elements can be positioned relatively far apart on the pedal assembly with minimal tolerance, for example, at opposite edges or corners. Additionally, the stop elements can be made comparatively small. They can also be used as identical parts for different housings, resulting in cost savings.

[0035] In a further development, it is provided that at least one of the stop elements has a stop element surface facing the pedal element, wherein the stop element surface is inclined inwards (at least partially) when viewed parallel to the Y-direction. The inclination can be configured, for example, such that an outer, in particular the outermost, lateral point of the stop element surface, which is adjacent to a side wall of the housing, is further away from the pedal element when viewed parallel to the direction of actuation than an inner, in particular the innermost, lateral point of the stop element surface (the inner point can, for example, be adjacent to a (particularly centrally arranged) pedal element projection or a (particularly centrally arranged) housing projection).

[0036] This advantageously ensures that when the pedal element snaps back, it initially couples with the stop element(s) at an inner point (viewed radially or parallel to the Y-direction). This initially minimizes the stress on the edges of the pedal element and the housing, and already dissipates some of the pedal element's momentum. As the pedal element continues to decelerate, the housing may (briefly) bend due to the high momentum. This bending, which progresses at the points initially in contact, can then cause the inclined sections of the stop element to come into (nearly) parallel contact with the pedal arm or pedal element and the inner wall of the housing.In other words, the inclination of the striking element surface advantageously makes it possible to distribute the impulse of the pedal element as evenly as possible onto the striking element after the initial coupling and to allow the deformation front within the respective striking element to run as evenly as possible, especially at its edges.

[0037] In a further development, it is provided that the pedal element in the Y-direction is limited by two spaced-apart edge areas or edges, wherein at least two stop elements are provided which couple with one of the edge areas or edges in the third position.

[0038] This advantageously prevents the edges of the pedal element from striking the inner wall of the housing. Due to the housing's flexing during impact absorption, as described above, the housing warps, and without stop elements, the edges of the pedal element, with their small (edge) surface area or even a sharp edge, would no longer meet the inner wall parallel to it, but rather at a shallow angle. The resulting small contact area between the edge and the inner wall would cause a very high surface load, thus transmitting a very high force from the pedal element into the inner wall of the housing. To prevent such a high force transmission, if a stop element is positioned outside the edge (e.g., in the center), its thickness (along the direction of actuation) and / or width (along the Y-direction) would have to be significantly increased (e.g.,...).A thickness of at least 9 mm would have to be provided (instead of, for example, a maximum of 7 mm or even a maximum of 6 mm in the case of at least two stop elements), and / or the stop element would have to be designed so softly that maintaining the precise initial position would be difficult, especially in the event of degradation of the stop element or its absence. Thus, covering the edge areas with the stop elements advantageously results in a particularly low force transmission in the contact area with the inner wall (and therefore also low noise generation and a low risk of damage). Furthermore, this allows for a relatively small thickness of the stop elements and / or a small gap between the inner wall and the pedal element in areas where no stop element is provided (e.g., a gap of no more than 0.7 mm, preferably no more than 0.55 mm).If one or all of the stop elements were to fail (e.g., fall out or deteriorate in their material properties), then in an extreme case, the pedal element would still be in contact with the inner wall in the first position. In such an exceptional case, the first position would still be defined well enough that a position sensor would provide a sufficiently good signal for it. With a different design (e.g., a central arrangement and therefore a greater thickness of the stop element and consequently a larger gap (e.g., at least 1 mm)), the first position would be significantly less precisely defined if the stop element were missing, so that the position sensor would no longer be able to provide a precise signal.

[0039] The edge or edge area can extend, for example, along the outermost 20% or along the outermost 15% of the pedal element's length in the Y-direction. The edge or edge area can, for example, have an edge at its outermost end.

[0040] In a further development, it is provided that a housing projection facing the pedal element is formed on the inner wall of the housing, which in the first position is arranged between at least two of the stop elements.

[0041] This advantageously ensures that if one, several, or all of the stop elements fail, a fixed and well-defined stop (namely, the housing projection) is available against which the pedal element can be forced by the return element. Such a failure of one or more stop elements can occur, for example, due to forgotten installation, falling out or being removed (intentionally or unintentionally) from its mounting position, or degradation (e.g., mechanical, thermal, or the like) of the stop element(s). This housing projection then serves as a stop for the pedal element and can precisely define at least the zero position of the position sensor. Such a case can be referred to as an emergency stop case.

[0042] It may be provided, for example, that the housing projection, viewed along the Y-direction, is arranged between the stop elements (at least in the first position).

[0043] It may be provided, for example, that the housing projection and the stop elements are arranged on a (straight) line (at least in the first position).

[0044] For example, the housing projection (especially when viewed along the Y-direction) can be positioned approximately in the center of the pedal element and / or the housing. It can also be designed to cover the center of the pedal element and / or the housing (in the first position). This advantageously prevents the pedal element from rotating (e.g., around its longitudinal axis) in the event of an emergency stop.

[0045] For example, the housing projection can be designed so that its sides contact the stop elements, or a lateral gap of no more than 1 mm is formed between the housing projection and the stop elements. This advantageously allows for a particularly large contact surface for the stop elements. Furthermore, it advantageously prevents or at least hinders the accumulation of particles and / or dirt, etc., between the stop elements and the housing projection.

[0046] It can be designed, for example, that the housing projection, viewed along the direction of actuation, is extended beyond the stop elements. A difference in height or a gap between the pedal element and the housing projection can, for example, be in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.65 mm, in the (static) first position.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that a pedal element projection facing the inner wall of the housing is formed on the pedal element, which in the first position is arranged between at least two of the stop elements.

[0048] This advantageously ensures that if one, several, or all of the stop elements fail, a fixed and well-defined stop (namely, the pedal element projection on the inner wall) is available when the pedal element has been forced into its initial position by the return element. Such a failure of one or more stop elements can occur, for example, due to forgotten installation, falling out or being removed (intentionally or unintentionally) from its mounting position, or degradation (e.g., mechanical, thermal, or the like) of the stop element(s). This pedal element projection then serves as a stop for the pedal element on the inner wall of the housing and can precisely define at least the zero position of the position sensor. Such a case can be referred to as an emergency stop case.

[0049] It may be provided, for example, that the pedal element projection, viewed along the Y direction, is positioned between the stop elements (at least in the first position).

[0050] It may be provided, for example, that the pedal element projection and the stop elements are arranged on a (straight) line (at least in the first position).

[0051] For example, the pedal element projection (especially when viewed along the Y-direction) may be positioned approximately in the center of the pedal element and / or the housing. It may also be designed to cover the center of the pedal element and / or the housing (in the first position). This advantageously prevents the pedal element from rotating (e.g., around its longitudinal axis) in the event of an emergency stop.

[0052] For example, the pedal element projection can be designed so that its sides touch the stop elements, or a lateral gap of no more than 1 mm is formed between the pedal element projection and the stop elements. This advantageously allows for a particularly large contact surface for the stop elements. Furthermore, it advantageously prevents or at least hinders the accumulation of particles and / or dirt, etc., between the stop elements and the pedal element projection.

[0053] It may be provided, for example, that the pedal element projection, viewed along the direction of actuation, is extended beyond the stop elements. A difference in height or a gap between the pedal element and the housing projection may, for example, be in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.65 mm, in the (static) first position.

[0054] In a further training course, it is stipulated that the impact damping device is arranged on the pedal element.

[0055] This allows the impact damping device to be specifically adapted to a particular pedal element and mounted directly onto it. Furthermore, this makes replacing or maintaining the impact damping device particularly easy.

[0056] The impact damping device can be attached to the pedal element, for example, by frictional, positive, or material-locking means. It can, for example, be snapped or clipped to the pedal element.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the impact damping device is arranged on the inner wall of the housing.

[0058] This advantageously enables a particularly secure and durable mounting. The stop element is thus advantageously positioned on a static element (the housing). The risk of damage from rapid accelerations (e.g., during retraction) or from operator intervention (e.g., during cleaning of the pedal assembly) is thereby minimized. Furthermore, the housing offers a particularly stable and secure hold, as it is easy to increase the housing wall thickness or to provide a sufficiently large recess for a stop element within the housing body. Since the housing is a static mass, this advantageously ensures that the tactile and dynamic operation of the pedal assembly remains unchanged.

[0059] The impact damping device can be attached to the inner wall, for example, by frictional, positive, or material-bonded means. It can be, for example, snapped or clipped to the housing or the inner wall.

[0060] In a further training course, it is stipulated that the impact damping device comprises a material, in particular predominantly, that is selected from the group: a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber, silicone.

[0061] The use of a thermoplastic elastomer allows for particularly cost-effective production and targeted adjustment of the desired mechanical (especially elastic) properties as well as properties relating to thermal exposure.

[0062] The use of rubber offers the advantage of particularly simple and cost-effective manufacturing.

[0063] The use of silicone advantageously allows for particularly high temperature resistance.

[0064] In a further development, it is provided that the impact damping device comprises a material that has a shore value in the range of 30 to 80, preferably in the range of 40 to 70.

[0065] This advantageously results in good damping during the rebound action (low noise, reduced risk of damage to the pedal element and / or inner wall). Simultaneously, this damping effect is advantageously achieved over a short distance of elastically reversible deformation. The thickness of the damping element assembly, or the gap in the initial position between the pedal element and the inner wall, can therefore be kept small (e.g., no more than 0.75 mm or 0.55 mm). This, in turn, means that in the event of a failure of the end-stop damping mechanism (e.g., one or more end stops falling out, etc.), the hard stop (pedal element with inner wall) will deviate so little from its actual initial position that a position sensor can still determine an acceptable zero position. Drawings

[0066] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which, however, are not to be interpreted as limiting the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show Fig. 1a - 1c schematic side views of a pedal arrangement in different positions of a pedal element along an actuation path, Fig. 2a a first schematic perspective view of a pedal arrangement in a first position, Fig. 2b the schematic perspective view of the pedal arrangement from Fig. 2a in a second position, Fig. 3a - 3c: three schematic sectional views of a pedal arrangement in the first position ( Fig. 3a), in the third position ( Fig. 3b) and in the second position ( Fig. 3c).

[0067] The Fig. Figures 1a to 1c show schematic side views of a pedal arrangement 1 in different positions ( Fig. 1a: in a first position P1 (solid line), a second position P2 (dashed line) and a third position P3 (dashed line, long line - short line)); Fig. 1b: in the third position; Fig. 1c: in the second position P2) of a pedal element 3 along an actuation path B.

[0068] The Fig. 2a and Fig. Figure 2b shows schematic perspective views of a pedal arrangement in the first position ( Fig. 2a) and in the second position ( Fig. 2b).

[0069] The Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show schematic sectional views of a pedal arrangement in the first position ( Fig. 3a), in the third position ( Fig. 3b) and in the second position ( Fig. 3c).

[0070] The Fig. 1a to 1c, the Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b as well as the Fig. 3a to 3c are described together below.

[0071] The Fig. Figures 1a to 1c show an accelerator pedal arrangement 1 comprising a housing 2 with an inner wall 3, a direction of actuation Z between a first position P1 (see Fig. 1a, solid line) and a second position P2 (see Fig. 1c) a movable pedal element 4, a return element 5 which forces the pedal element 4, in particular in the unforced state, into the first position P1, and an elastically reversibly deformable stop damping device 6 with at least two stop elements 7a, 7b which are spatially separated from each other (in Fig. 1a only a first stop element 7a can be seen; in Fig. Figures 2a to 3b show an embodiment with two stop elements, a first stop element 7a and a second stop element 7b. An X-direction X runs transversely to the actuation direction Z, and a Y-direction Y runs transversely to the actuation direction Z and transversely to the X-direction X. A third position P3 is provided in an initial region A of an actuation path B of the pedal element 4, wherein the third position P3 is located between the first position P1 and the second position P2, wherein in the third position P3 the pedal element 4 on the one hand and the inner wall 3 of the housing 2 on the other hand are coupled to the at least two stop elements 7a, 7b (this is shown in Figure 2a to 3b). Fig. 1a is not shown for the sake of clarity, see however Fig. 1b) and in particular bear against the at least two stop elements 7a, 7b, wherein the at least two stop elements 7a, 7b are elastically deformed when the pedal element 4 is moved from the third position P3 towards the first position P1 or are deformed in the first position P1.

[0072] The X-direction X, the Y-direction Y and the actuation direction Z form a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0073] The displacement of pedal element 4 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 takes place here in the XZ plane.

[0074] The initial range A of the actuation path B can extend, for example, from the first position P1 to the third position P3. The initial range A can, for example, constitute a very small fraction of the actuation path B. For instance, the initial range A in the area of ​​the end-stop damping device 6 can correspond to a distance of at most 1 mm, or at most 0.5 mm, or at most 0.3 mm, or at most 0.15 mm (with a total travel in the area or radius of the end-stop damping device 6 of, for example, 7 mm to 30 mm). Due to the very small initial range A, or the position of the third position P3 being very close to the first position P1, the pedal element 4 can reach the first position P1 with particularly low tolerance, thus enabling – in the case of an electronic or electric pedal arrangement – ​​a precise zero position of the position sensor.

[0075] The impact damping device 6 is designed such that the pedal element 4 in the first position P1 (in the static case) is spaced away from the inner wall 3 of the housing 2. There is a gap 20 (see Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b) formed with a gap thickness d between the pedal element 4 and the inner wall 3. The gap thickness d can (especially in the static case of the first position P1) be, for example, in a range between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm, preferably it is, for example, at most 0.7 mm, and particularly preferably, for example, at most 0.55 mm.

[0076] The stop element 7a, 7b can have a stop element thickness D. This stop element thickness D can, for example, be in the range of 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 3 mm to 7 mm.

[0077] The impact damping device 6 is designed such that the pedal element 4 does not strike the inner wall 3 of the housing 2 during an unbraked movement from the second position P2 to the first position P1.

[0078] This is achieved by the (at least) two stop elements 7a, 7b. When the pedal element 4 snaps back, it first strikes the stop elements 7a, 7b. The impulse of the pedal element 4, which is transferred to the stop elements 7a, 7b, is then transferred by the stop elements 7a, 7b to the housing 2 or the inner wall 3. This causes the housing 2 to be briefly (elastically) bent or warped (in the middle section, it warps upwards, resulting, for example, in a shape similar to an inverted "U"). As a result, the inner wall 3 of the housing 2 moves further away from the pedal element 4 in the middle section of the upper part of the housing 2, thus preventing the pedal element 4 from striking the inner wall 3 directly in the middle area.The impulse from the pedal element 4 is thus completely dissipated in the stop elements 7a, 7b, which are located at the lateral edges of the housing 2, but in this example extend into the central area. When the housing 2 is bent back, there is also no contact between the pedal element 4 and the inner wall 3. In this way, a loud noise is avoided and wear of the inner wall 3 and / or pedal element 4 due to direct mechanical contact is prevented.

[0079] As in the Fig. As can be clearly seen in 2a to 3c, at least two stop elements 7a, 7b are designed here as separate elements.

[0080] As in Fig. As can also be clearly seen in figures 2a to 3c, at least one of the stop elements 7a, 7b (in the illustrated embodiments: both stop elements 7a, 7b) has a stop element surface 8a, 8b facing the pedal element 4, wherein the stop element surface 8a, 8b is inclined inwards section by section when viewed parallel to the Y-direction Y (here: the outer section in each case). The inclination is such that an outer lateral point 9a, 9b (in particular the outermost point) of the respective stop element surface 8a, 8b, which is adjacent to a side wall 10 of the housing 2, is further away from the pedal element 4 when viewed parallel to the actuation direction Z than an inner lateral point 11a, 11b (in particular the innermost point) of the respective stop element surface 8a, 8b.

[0081] During the snap-back action of the pedal element 4 described above and the short-term overshoot of the pedal element 4 beyond the first position P1 (in the figures: overshoot upwards) and the curvature of the housing 2, the inclination can, on the one hand, ensure that the inner sections of the stop elements 7a, 7b couple with the pedal element 4 and the inner wall 3, thereby selectively building up the short-term curvature in the center of the housing, which advantageously reduces the load on the edge areas of the housing 2.Furthermore, during the formation of the curvature by the inclined stop element surface 8a, 8b, this surface lies essentially flat against the pedal element 4 even when the curvature of the housing 2 is fully formed, so that a uniform deformation is achieved in the respective stop element 7a, 7b and the contact area of ​​the stop elements 7a, 7b with the pedal element 4 is also increased, thereby advantageously reducing the surface load on the pedal element 4 when the impulse of the pedal element 4 is absorbed.

[0082] The pedal element 4 is bounded in the Y-direction Y by two spaced-apart edge areas or edges 12a, 12b (see Fig. 2a to 3c), wherein at least two stop elements 7a, 7b are provided (examples in the figures are exactly two stop elements 7a, 7b) which couple in the third position P3 with one of the edge areas or edges 12a, 12b.

[0083] During the further movement from the third position P3 to the first position P1 during the snap-back action, edges 53a, 53b of the edge areas or edges 12a, 12b can even couple with the stop elements 7a, 7b, especially when snapping back from a very far depressed position of the pedal element 4. The stop elements 7a, 7b thus prevent the edges 53a, 53b from striking the inner wall 3 hard.

[0084] In Fig. In figures 2a to 3c it can be clearly seen that on the inner wall 3 of the housing 2 a housing projection 13 facing the pedal element 4 is formed, which in the first position P1 is arranged between at least two of the stop elements 7a, 7b (viewed in the Y direction Y).

[0085] The housing projection 13 is part of the inner wall 3 of the housing 2; even if it were mounted as a separate element on the inner wall 3, it would still be considered part of the inner wall 3 of the housing 2.

[0086] The case protrusion 13 is - as is particularly well done in the Fig. As can be seen from 3a to 3c, the stop elements 7a and 7b extend towards the pedal element 4 (so that the gap 20 is formed). However, if one or both of the stop elements 7a and 7b were missing or damaged, the housing projection 13 would form a kind of emergency stop against which the pedal element 4 could strike. In such a case, increased noise during retraction would be expected. However, the correct function of the pedal assembly 1 would still be guaranteed, since the difference between the first position P1 with stop elements 7a and 7b and a first position P1 with the emergency stop (pedal element 4 would rest against the housing projection 13) is very slight (it is determined by the gap width d). Despite this slight difference, a position sensor could provide a sufficiently accurate signal (zero position of the position sensor) to ensure the correct operation of the pedal assembly 1.Thus, at least emergency operation could be maintained until the stop elements 7a, 7b are repaired. The failure of one or both stop elements 7a, 7b can result, for example, from an assembly error (stop elements 7a, 7b are forgotten or incorrectly installed), from the stop elements 7a, 7b falling out of the pedal assembly 1, from a degradation of the stop elements 7a, 7b (e.g., a reduction in thickness) as a result of mechanical influences (e.g., plastic deformation, abrasion, etc.) or thermal influences (e.g., shrinkage, etc.) or as a result of aging (e.g., shrinkage, etc.).

[0087] Alternatively or additionally (not shown here), it is also conceivable that a pedal element projection facing the inner wall 3 of the housing 2 is formed on the pedal element 4, which in the first position P1 is arranged between at least two of the stop elements 7a, 7b. The function as an emergency stop would be analogous to that described above.

[0088] In Fig. Figures 1a to 3c show that the impact damping device 6 is arranged on the inner wall 3 of the housing 2.

[0089] It can be attached, for example, by force-fit, form-fit, or material-fit connection to the housing 2 or to or in the inner wall 3.

[0090] In the Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show that a housing recess 50 is provided in a cover plate 27 of the housing 2 for each of the two stop elements 7a, 7b, with a housing undercut 51 arranged in each housing recess 50. The stop elements 7a, 7b are mounted on the housing 2 from an interior space 24 of the housing 2. They each have a stop element locking element 52, which is inserted from the inside through the housing recess 50 and which is locked onto the housing undercut 51 by means of a mushroom-shaped head. In this way, the two stop elements 7a, 7b are mounted on the housing 2 in a captive manner.

[0091] Alternatively or additionally (not shown here) the impact damping device 6 could be arranged on the pedal element 4, in particular by frictional locking or form locking or by material locking to the pedal element 4.

[0092] The impact damping device 6 (in particular the impact elements 7a, 7b) may comprise or have a material, in particular to a predominant extent, which is selected from the group: a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber, silicone.

[0093] The impact damping device 6 (in particular the impact elements 7a, 7b) can comprise or have a material having a shore value in the range of 30 to 80, preferably in the range of 40 to 70.

[0094] The pedal arrangement here exemplifies how particularly well-suited to Fig. As can be seen in Figures 1a to 1c, a damping element 14 is also provided, which has a spring element 15. Furthermore, a fourth position (not shown here) is provided in an end region (e.g., at most 30% of the actuation path), which is located between the third position P3 and the second position P2. In the fourth position, the pedal element 4, viewed along the actuation path B, is coupled to the damping element 14, in particular, it bears against the damping element 14. The damping element 14 has a spring element 15, which is elastically deformed when the pedal element 4 is moved from the fourth position towards the second position P2.

[0095] The return element 5 and spring element 15 are arranged side by side here as an example.

[0096] The pedal element 3 has a bearing arrangement 29 about which it can be rotated between the first position P1 and the second position P2.

[0097] The pedal element 3 has a bearing section 37 and a lever section 41 (which can also serve as a pedal arm). At its free end, the pedal element 4 has a footplate 40.

[0098] Furthermore, pedal element 3 has, for example, a pedal element projection 38. This pedal element projection 38 is located on a side of pedal element 3 facing the damping element 14. When pedal element 3 is moved from the first position P1 towards the second position P2, the pedal element projection 38 couples with the damping element 5 (from the fourth position, not shown here). With a further movement of pedal element 3 from the fourth position to the second position P2 (see Fig. 1c for the second position P2) the damping element 14 is elastically reversibly deformed by means of the pedal element 3 (here by means of the pedal element projection 38) (here by way of example compressed by a compressive load, whereby in other versions a tensile load or a pulling apart is also conceivable (alternatively or additionally)) whereby a restoring force is exerted on the pedal element 3 in addition to the restoring element 5.

[0099] In a section of the actuation path B between the first position P1 and the fourth position (not shown here), the damping element 14 is not coupled to the pedal element 3 or in (direct) mechanical contact.

[0100] This imparts an operating characteristic to pedal element 3 in the end range of its actuation travel B that closely resembles that of a mechanical pedal arrangement, where, for example, pedal element 3 is connected to an actuated (and possibly spring-loaded) element via a hydraulic system, cable, or connecting rod. Furthermore, this prevents the risk of a hard stop in the second position P2, even in the event of a sudden, forceful actuation of pedal element 3, due to the additional restoring force of the damping element 14. Additionally, it ensures that no increased force is required to actuate pedal element 4 until pedal element 3 and damping element 14 engage in the fourth position.

[0101] Fig. 2a and Fig. Figure 2b schematically shows a pedal arrangement 1.

[0102] The pedal assembly 1 comprises a housing 2, a pedal element 4, and a return assembly 22. The pedal element 4 is movably mounted on the housing 2, for example, via a bearing arrangement 29. A sensor unit 28 (which, for example, includes a position sensor) can detect the position of the pedal element 4 relative to the housing 2 in order to detect pedal actuation. Alternatively, instead of the sensor unit 28, a mechanical connection can be made to the pedal element 4 to transmit mechanical force to a system to be actuated. The sensor unit 28 can additionally include an electronic circuit by means of which sensor signals can be acquired, evaluated, stored, and / or transmitted (e.g., to a control unit). The sensor unit 28 can, for example, include a rotary angle sensor (as a position sensor).

[0103] The pedal element 4 is mounted on the housing 2 between a Fig. 2a shown first position P1 (starting position or initial position) and one in Fig. The second position P2 (end position or end position) shown in Figure 2b is movable. The return assembly 22 serves to move the pedal element 4 into the first position P1 or to hold it in the first position P1 when no external forces act on the pedal element 4. For this purpose, the return assembly 22 has at least one elastic return element 5 and a base element 21 (it is understood that the return assembly 22 is an optional, exemplary element, in particular its base element 21; only the return element 5 is required). The base element 21 is designed to receive the elastic return element 5. The base element 21 can, for example, be an element that is at least separate from the return element 5. In particular, it can be manufactured separately from the return element 5 and not integrally with it. The return element 5 can, for example, be loosely or captively and / or non-destructively removable and / or mounted in or on the base element 21.It may be arranged in other embodiments that the return element 5 is arranged on the base element 21 in a way that allows it to be removed without damage but cannot be lost.

[0104] It is provided that the base element 21 is designed separately from the housing 2 and is mounted in or on the housing 2, in particular, attached. This allows the base element 21 to be manufactured separately from the housing 2, where the base element 21 can, for example, serve as an adapter between the return element 5 and the housing 2. The return element 5 can be easily, securely, and correctly positioned within the housing 2 using the base element 21. The pedal assembly 1 can thus be easily and efficiently adapted to different requirements, as a characteristic of the pedal element 4 can be easily and efficiently adjusted by using a suitable return element 5. The use of different return elements 5 does not require any modification of the housing 2 itself, as only the base element 21 needs to be adapted, or even different return elements 5 can be used in or on the housing 2.The pedal assembly 1 can be arranged, mounted, or received on one and the same base element 21. Since the housing 2 is more complex to manufacture than the base element 21, the pedal assembly 1, despite its many possible variations, is nevertheless simple and cost-effective to manufacture. The return assembly 22 is mounted in or on the housing 2, in particular in a non-destructively detachable manner, such that actuation of the pedal element 4 in the direction of the second position P2 (end position) causes a reversible elastic deformation of the return element 5. Through an elastic restoring force of the return element 5, the pedal element 4 is thus returned to the first position P1 (starting position) when the actuation is terminated or when no external force is applied to the pedal element 4.

[0105] The housing 2 has a base plate 23, side walls 26 adjoining the base plate 23, and a cover plate 27. The base plate 23, cover plate 27, and side walls 26 form an interior space 24 between them or enclose an interior space 24 of the housing 2. The interior space 24 is shown here as a pocket-shaped feature. It has only one (larger) mounting opening 25 for the pedal element 3 and the return assembly 22 (in Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b front left) and is otherwise self-contained - the openings 32 described below for coupling the base element 21 to the base plate 23 do not interfere with the pocket-shaped design of the housing 2, as they only have a small area (e.g. less than 10% or less than 5% of the area of ​​the base plate 7). In particular, the pedal element 4 is not mounted here by way of example through a first mounting opening (e.g. from left to right) and the return assembly 22 through a second mounting opening (e.g. from bottom to top).

[0106] This allows the housing 2 to be very dimensionally stable and torsionally rigid even with thin walls or plates. This is particularly advantageous when high pedal forces are applied, for example, when using the pedal arrangement 1 as a brake pedal arrangement. Actuation forces during braking can be, for example, more than 200 N, or even more than 300 N or more than 400 N.

[0107] The mounting opening 25 is shown here as opening forward, i.e., in a direction in which a pedal arm 39 of the pedal element 3 extends. The pedal arm 39 has, as an example, a footplate 40 at its free end. The mounting opening 25 is shown here as opening in a direction that extends transversely to a rotation axis for the pedal element 3. The rotation axis can, for example, extend transversely or perpendicularly to a mounting direction 100 (which is described below). When mounted, the pedal element 4 can move within the mounting opening 25 between the first position P1 (initial position) and the second position P2 (end position). In other words, when mounted, the pedal element 4 protrudes, at least partially, through the mounting opening 25 into the surrounding area of ​​the housing 2.The return assembly 22 is shown here as an example (viewed along the assembly direction 100 or along the direction of the pedal arm) arranged between the bearing of the pedal element 4 and the footplate 40 of the pedal element 4.

[0108] The reset assembly 22 can be arranged or mounted almost completely (e.g., more than 90%) within the interior 24 of the housing 2, in particular without any parts of the reset assembly 22 protruding from the outside to the inside through any of the side walls 26 or plates 23, 27. Here, the reset assembly 22 is shown as an example completely arranged within the interior 24 of the housing 2. This makes assembly, especially of a pre-assembled reset assembly 22, particularly easy. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the reset assembly 22 can be inserted, slid, or mounted in a single assembly step, especially as a pre-assembled element, within the interior 24 of the housing 2. The time-consuming insertion of an element into the interior 24 and the subsequent coupling of another element of the reset assembly 22 is not required.Furthermore, the arrangement of the reset assembly 22 in the interior 24 makes it particularly advantageous that the at least one reset element 4 is especially well protected against external mechanical influences or the like.

[0109] The pedal element 4 is mounted on the side walls 26. Here, the pedal element 4 is shown as an example mounted in the interior 24 of the housing 2. The pedal element 4 is arranged with a bearing section 37 between the side walls 26, the base plate 23, and the cover plate 27. The base element 21 rests, for example, against the side walls 26 and / or the base plate 23. This ensures a particularly secure and reliable positioning of the base element 21 and also of the return element 5 within the housing 2.

[0110] The cover plate 27 preferably has the impact damping device 6 with exactly two impact elements 7a, 7b, as shown here by way of example, wherein the elastic return element 5 of the return assembly 22 presses the pedal element 4 against the impact elements 7a, 7b. This state, in which the pedal element 3 is pressed against the impact elements 7a, 7b, represents, for example, the first position P1 (starting position). By using the impact damping device 6 or the impact elements 7a, 7b, the first position P1 (starting position) can be reliably set. The impact damping device 6 or the impact elements 7a, 7b have damping properties, as already described above, in order to prevent the pedal element 4 from striking the housing 2 or its inner wall 3 hard, for example.when pedal element 3 is suddenly released from the pressed state and moves quickly towards the first position P1.

[0111] The Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show that the base plate 23 has at least one opening 32, wherein in Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show two such openings 32. The base element 21 has at least one base element projection 33 corresponding to the opening 32, such that in Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show two such base element projections 33. Each base element projection 33 is shown here as an example positively coupled to an opening 32 by being positively arranged in the respective opening 32. It is understood that alternatively or additionally, the base plate 23 can also have at least one base plate projection and the base element 21 can have at least one base element opening corresponding to the base plate projection, wherein the base plate opening and the base plate projection are positively coupled.

[0112] It is understood that the reset assembly 22 can also include the damping element 14 (in Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b not visible, see however Fig. 3a to 3c). It is understood that in other embodiments the damping element 14 may also be arranged separately and / or spaced apart from the return assembly 22 and / or the base element 21, in particular in or on the housing 2.

[0113] The Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show that the base plate 23 has at least one base plate opening 32, wherein in Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show two such base plate openings 32. The base element 21 has at least one base element projection 33 corresponding to the base plate opening 32, such that in Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show two such base element projections 33. Each base element projection 33 is shown here as an example positively coupled to a base plate opening 32 by virtue of the base element projection 33 being positively engaged in the respective base plate opening 32. It is understood that alternatively or additionally, the base plate 23 can also have at least one base plate projection and the base element 21 can have at least one base element opening corresponding to the base plate projection, wherein the base plate opening and the base plate projection are positively coupled.

[0114] It is particularly advantageous for the pedal arrangement 1 that the area of ​​the at least one base plate opening 32 of the base plate 23, and in particular the area of ​​all base plate openings 32 of the base plate 23 of the housing 2, comprises a proportion of at most 10%, and in particular at most 5%, of the total area of ​​the base plate 23. In this way, the housing 2 (even with a comparatively thin wall thickness) is sufficiently stable to absorb high actuation forces, while at the same time enabling a positive-locking connection of the return assembly 22 in the housing 2 or its interior 24.

[0115] When the base element 21 rests against the base plate 23 in a predefined position, the base element projections 33 engage in the base plate openings 32, creating a positive-locking connection. Lateral displacement of the base element 21 relative to the base plate 23 is not possible without lifting the base element 21 from the base plate 23. Preferably, the elastic restoring element 5 between the base element 21 and the pedal element 4 is pre-tensioned, so that an elastic restoring force acts even when the pedal element 4 is in its initial position (first position P1). This also causes the base element 21 to be pressed against the base plate 23, thus keeping the base element projections 33 in the base plate openings 32, i.e., preventing the base element 21 from lifting from the base plate 23. This ensures that the base element 21 is held securely and reliably in the housing 2 using simple and cost-effective means.The base element 21, and thus also the return element 5, are fixed to the base plate 23. At the same time, the return assembly 22 can be easily and non-destructively installed and removed.

[0116] The base element 21 can, for example, have an annular groove 35 and / or a cup-shaped recess 36 in which the elastic return element 4, e.g., a compression spring or the like, and—here only by way of example—also the damping element 14, is or can be arranged. In the illustrated embodiment, the return assembly 22 has two independent elastic return elements 5a, 5b, which are arranged parallel to each other between the base element 21 and the pedal element 3. The two return elements 5a, 5b are designed here, for example, as compression springs. A first return element 5a is arranged in an annular groove 35 and a second return element 4b in a cup-shaped recess 36. This design allows the return elements 5a, 5b to be guided separately in the base element 21, since the return elements 5a, 5b are not arranged in the same recess of the base element 21.Alternatively, the two return elements 5a, 5b can also be arranged in separate annular grooves or in a common, i.e. the same, annular groove or in a common cup-shaped recess.

[0117] The spring element 6 of the damping element 5 is shown here, by way of example, arranged together with the second return element 4b in the cup-shaped recess 36. The spring element 6 is shown here, by way of example, arranged within the second return element 4b, in particular concentrically to it.

[0118] The use of two return elements 5a, 5b allows for more precise adjustment of the desired behavior of the pedal element 4, while also providing redundancy in the return function of the pedal element 4. If one of the return elements 5a, 5b fails, for example, the other return element 5a, 5b can still ensure that the pedal element 4 returns to its initial position P1 (starting position) after actuation.

[0119] The pedal element 4 has, by way of example, a (pedal element) recess 31 (here shown by way of example with a stepped design in the upper part of the figures) in which the elastic return element 5 is supported, e.g., at an end facing away from the base element 21. Alternatively or additionally, a projection for supporting the return element 5 could also be provided. In the embodiment shown in the figures, both return elements 5a, 5b are arranged in the same (pedal element) recess 31, whereby individual recesses can also be provided for each return element 5a, 5b (here, by way of example, the first return element 5a is supported on a radially outer shoulder of the (pedal element) recess 31 and the second return element 5b is supported radially inside the shoulder even higher in the (pedal element) recess 31). This results, by way of example, in an overall bell-shaped (pedal element) recess 31.The (pedal element) recess 31 prevents the return elements 5a, 5b from slipping off the pedal element 4. This ensures that actuation of the pedal element 4, i.e., moving the pedal element 4 towards the second position P2, always compresses the return elements 5a, 5b, allowing the return elements 5a, 5b to return the pedal element 4 to the first position P1 (starting position).

[0120] To avoid a hard impact of the pedal element 4 on the housing 2 and / or the return assembly 22 in the second position P2 (end position or end position), the return assembly 22 here has, by way of example, a damping element 14 arranged on the base element 21, whereby other damping options are also conceivable.

[0121] It is - as in Fig. 1 a to 1c and as already explained above - also a fourth position not shown here in an end region of an actuation path B of the pedal element 3 is provided (not shown here), which is located between the third position P3 and the second position P2, wherein the pedal element 4, viewed along the actuation path B, is coupled to the damping element 14 in the fourth position, in particular bearing against the damping element 14, wherein the damping element 14 has a spring element 15 which is elastically deformed when the pedal element 4 is moved from the fourth position towards the second position P2.

[0122] In particular, it can be provided, for example, that the pedal element 4 only couples with the damping element 14 from the fourth position onwards, and thus does not couple or is not coupled with the damping element 14 between the first position P1 and the fourth position.

[0123] The spring element 15 can, by way of example, be designed as a helical spring 16, spiral spring, or volute spring. In other embodiments, the spring element 15 and / or the return element can also, by way of example, be designed as a leaf spring or disc spring.

[0124] It may be provided, for example, that the damping element 14 is designed in such a way as to prevent the pedal element 4 from being displaced beyond the second position P2, for example, it may be designed in such a way that it “blocks” in the second position P2, for example, if it is designed as a coil spring 16 or as a disc spring.

[0125] In Fig. Figure 3c shows that, as an example, pushing the pedal element 4 beyond the second position P2 is prevented by mechanical contact between the lower end of the rim of the bell-shaped (pedal element) recess 31 and a lateral upper end or rim of the base element 21. In the second position P2, the two rims "block," so that the pedal element 4 cannot be moved further downwards. The return elements 5a and 5b do not "block" in this example.

[0126] The spring element 15 can, for example, exhibit a linear characteristic.

[0127] In other embodiments, the spring element 15 can, for example, have a non-linear characteristic.

[0128] The spring element 15 is pre-tensioned here as an example. This allows, for example, a (small) (force) jump in the actuation characteristic to be achieved, which signals to an operator that he has reached the end range E of the actuation path B.

[0129] The damping element 14 here exemplarily comprises a guide element 17, wherein the guide element 17 has a damping element stop 18 and a guide body 19, the guide body 19 having a first guide body end facing the damping element stop 18 and a second guide body end facing away from the damping element stop 18. The pedal element 4 couples with the damping element stop 18 in the fourth position, wherein the guide element 17 is configured to effect a linear movement of the damping element 14 when the pedal element 4 is moved from the fourth position towards the second position P2.

[0130] The guide body 19 is shown here as an example of a rod-like, pin-like, or similar design. It can, for example, be designed as an elongated body (e.g., with an aspect ratio of at least 3:1 regarding length and width).

[0131] The damping element stop 18 is shown here as an example at the first guide body end of the guide body 19 (at an end of the guide body 19 facing the pedal element 4).

[0132] The spring element 15, for example, surrounds the guide body 19 (e.g., as a coil spring or helical spring 16 or as an volute spring). In other words, the guide body 19 is arranged inside the spring element 15.

[0133] The spring element 15 is shown here as an example supported at one end of the spring element on the housing 2 or on an element coupled to the housing 2, here the base element 21. At its other, second end of the spring element, the spring element 15 is shown here as an example coupled to or supported on the damping element stop 18.

[0134] The guide element 17 can, for example, be mushroom-shaped. It can, for example, have a T-shaped cross-section.

[0135] The guide body 19 and the damping element stop 18 can, for example, be formed in one piece. They can be manufactured in the same production process, for example as an injection-molded part or as a stamped and bent part.

[0136] The base element 21 has a base element opening 42. The housing 2 has a housing opening 43. The guide element 17, in particular the guide body 19, projects with its second guide body end into or through the base element opening 42 and into or through the housing opening 43. When the pedal element 4 reaches the fourth position and couples with the damping element 14 (here, for example, the pedal element projection 38 comes into mechanical contact with the damping element stop 18) and when the pedal element 4 continues towards the second position P2 (see Fig.3c) If the guide body 19 is displaced, it moves through the base element opening 42 and the housing opening 43 (if no base element 21 is provided, the guide body 19 moves only through the housing opening 43). It may be provided that the range of motion of the damping element 14, and thus of the guide body 19, is limited to a distance that corresponds at most to the thickness of the housing 2 in the area of ​​the housing opening 43, in order to prevent a hard stop of the second end of the guide body with an element located below the housing 2 (e.g., a vehicle floor).

[0137] The pedal arrangement 1 further includes, by way of example, a shaft 54, in particular a sleeve-shaped shaft, which is coupled to the housing 2, wherein the guide body 19 is received in the shaft 54 ​​and is guided by means of a shaft wall 55.

[0138] The shaft 54 ​​has a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end (this can be considered equivalent to the base element opening 42 by way of example, or be designed in an equivalent manner to the housing opening 43 in embodiments without base element 21 by way of example), wherein the guide body 19 projects through the first opening and the second opening, wherein the guide body 19 projects beyond an edge of the second opening at the second guide body end in a radial direction R transverse to an insertion direction Z of the guide body 10 into the shaft 54.

[0139] This makes it particularly easy to securely mount the guide element 17 to the base element 21 or directly to the housing 2. Furthermore, it is advantageous to pre-tension the spring element 15 located between the stop element 8 and the base element 21 (in other cases: between the damping element stop 18 and the housing 2). QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 20 2004 004 455 U1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1), comprising -- a housing (2) with an inner wall (3); -- a pedal element (4) displaceable along an actuating direction (Z) between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2); -- a return element (5) which urges the pedal element (4), in particular in the non-forced state, into the first position (P1); -- an elastically reversibly deformable stop damping device (6) with at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) which are spatially separated from one another, wherein an X-direction (X) runs transversely to the actuation direction (Z), wherein a Y-direction (Y) runs transversely to the actuating direction (Z) and transversely to the X-direction (X), wherein a third position (P3) is provided in an initial region (A) of an actuating travel (B) of the pedal element (4), which third position is located between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), wherein in the third position (P3) the pedal element (4) and the inner wall (3) of the housing (2) are coupled to the at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) and in particular bear against the at least two stop elements (7a, 7b), wherein the at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) are elastically deformed upon displacement of the pedal element (4) from the third position (P3) towards the first position (P1). [2] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the stop damping device (6) is designed such that the pedal element (4) is spaced from the inner wall (3) of the housing (2) in the first position (P1). [3] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stop damping device (6) is designed such that the pedal element (4) does not strike the inner wall (3) of the housing (2) during an unbraked movement from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1). [4] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) are designed as separate elements. [5] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the stop elements (7a, 7b) has a stop element surface (8a, 8b) facing the pedal element (4), wherein the stop element surface (8a, 8b) is inclined inwards when viewed parallel to the Y-direction (Y), in particular such that an outer lateral point (9a, 9b) of the stop element surface (8a, 8b), which is adjacent to a side wall (10) of the housing (2), is spaced further from the pedal element (4) than an inner lateral point (11a, 11b) of the stop element surface (8a, 8b) when viewed parallel to the actuating direction (Z). [6] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pedal element (4) is delimited in the Y-direction (Y) by two spaced-apart edges (12a, 12b), wherein at least two stop elements (7a, 7b) are provided, which in the third position (P3) each couple to one of the edges (12a, 12b). [7] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein a housing projection (13) facing the pedal element (4) is formed on the inner wall (3) of the housing (2), which projection is arranged in the first position (P1) between at least two of the stop elements (7a, 7b), and / or wherein a pedal element projection facing the inner wall (3) of the housing (2) is formed on the pedal element (4), which projection is arranged in the first position (P1) between at least two of the stop elements (7a, 7b). [8] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stop damping device (6) is arranged on the pedal element (4), in particular is fastened to the pedal element (4) in a force-fitting or form-fitting or material-fitting manner, and / or wherein the stop damping device (6) is arranged on the inner wall (3) of the housing (2), in particular is fastened to the housing (2) in a force-fitting or form-fitting or material-fitting manner. [9] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the impact damping device (6) comprises a material, in particular predominantly, which is selected from the group: a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber, silicone. [10] Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the impact damping device (6) comprises a material having a shore value in the range of 30 to 80, preferably in the range of 40 to 70.

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