Pedal device

Abstract

To provide a pedal apparatus that suppresses a backlash occurring on a pedal.SOLUTION: A pedal apparatus includes a shaft, a pedal 40, a housing, a reaction force generation mechanism 30, and a coupling rod 60. When the pedal 40 is pressed by an operator, the coupling rod 60 transmits force from the pedal 40 to the reaction force generation mechanism 30. The pedal 40 has a hole 403 concaved from a pedal back surface 405. The pedal 40 and the coupling rod 60 are fastened to each other by the coupling rod 60 that is inserted in the hole 403.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a pedal device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as described in Patent Document 1, a pedal device including a brake pedal, an operation rod, and a stroke simulator is known. In this pedal device, a pin is inserted into a hole in the brake pedal and a hole in an output part connected to the operation rod, so that the brake pedal is rotatably connected to the operation rod. In addition, the operation rod is rotatably connected to a rod protruding from a cylinder of the stroke simulator. As a result, the operation rod transmits a depression force from the brake pedal to the stroke simulator, and transmits a reaction force generated by the stroke simulator against the depression force to the brake pedal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-161900 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the inventors' study, when the brake pedal of the pedal device described in Patent Document 1 rotates, the brake pedal slides on the pin. This causes rattles between the brake pedal and the pin. In addition, the operation rod slides on the rod protruding from the cylinder of the stroke simulator. This causes rattles between the operation rod and this rod. These rattles cause the angle of the brake pedal to change.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a pedal device that suppresses rattling that occurs in a pedal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The invention described in claim 1 is a pedal device comprising: a shaft (41) formed in a rod shape; a pedal (40) that rotates together with the shaft about the axis (CL) of the shaft when stepped on by an operator; a support (5) that rotatably supports the shaft; a reaction force generating mechanism (30) that generates a reaction force against the operator's stepping force applied to the pedal by elastically deforming upon receiving force from the pedal when the pedal is stepped on by the operator; and a connecting part (60) connected to a pedal back surface (405) that is the surface of the pedal opposite to the surface stepped on by the operator, and when the pedal is stepped on by the operator, the connecting part transmits the force from the pedal to the reaction force generating mechanism, and the pedal has a hole (403) formed therein that is recessed from the pedal back surface, and the connecting part is connected to the hole. Press Fit The pedal device is configured such that the pedal and the connecting portion are fixed together. The invention described in claim 2 is a pedal device comprising: a shaft (41) formed in a rod shape; a pedal (40) that rotates together with the shaft about the axis (CL) of the shaft when stepped on by an operator; a support (5) rotatably supporting the shaft; a reaction force generating mechanism (30) that generates a reaction force against the operator's stepping force applied to the pedal by elastically deforming upon receiving force from the pedal when the pedal is stepped on by the operator; and a connecting part (60) connected to a pedal back surface (405) that is the surface of the pedal opposite to the surface stepped on by the operator, wherein the connecting part transmits the force from the pedal to the reaction force generating mechanism when the pedal is stepped on by the operator; a convex part formed in the pedal protruding from the pedal back surface; a hole formed in the connecting part corresponding to the convex part, and the convex part being fitted in the hole. Press Fit The pedal device is configured such that the pedal and the connecting portion are fixed together.

[0007] As a result, the rear surface of the pedal does not slide against the connecting rod when the pedal rotates, which reduces rattling between the pedal and the connecting rod, thereby reducing rattling in the pedal.

[0008] Note that the reference symbols in parentheses attached to each component indicate an example of the correspondence between the component and specific components described in the embodiments described below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of a brake-by-wire system in which a pedal device according to a first embodiment is used. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] Enlarged view of part VI in Figure 4. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of a pedal device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in Figure 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a connecting rod of the pedal device of the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of a pedal device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of a pedal device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of a pedal device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of a pedal device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of the pedal device of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of a pedal device according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of the pedal device of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of the pedal device of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of the pedal device of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of the pedal device of the thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a pedal and a connecting rod of the pedal device of the fourteenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same or equivalent parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0011] (First embodiment) The pedal device 1 of this embodiment is used, for example, as a brake pedal in a brake-by-wire system 150 that controls the brakes of a vehicle. First, this brake-by-wire system 150 will be described.

[0012] The brake-by-wire system 150 includes wheel cylinders 131 to 134, an ECU 110, a brake circuit 120, and a pedal device 1, as shown in FIG.

[0013] The wheel cylinders 131 to 134 are disposed on the respective wheels of the vehicle, and each of the wheel cylinders 131 to 134 is fitted with a brake pad (not shown).

[0014] The ECU 110 has a first ECU 111 and a second ECU 112. The first ECU 111 has a microcomputer, a drive circuit, and the like (not shown). The first ECU 111 also controls a first brake circuit 121 of a brake circuit 120 (described later) based on a signal from a pedal device 1 (described later). The second ECU 112 has a microcomputer, a drive circuit, and the like (not shown). The second ECU 112 also controls a second brake circuit 122 of the brake circuit 120 (described later) based on a signal from the pedal device 1 (described later).

[0015] The brake circuit 120 has a first brake circuit 121 and a second brake circuit 122. The first brake circuit 121 includes a reservoir 124, a motor 123, a gear mechanism 125, and a master cylinder 126. The reservoir 124 stores brake fluid. The motor 123 drives the gear mechanism 125. The gear mechanism 125 reciprocates a master piston 127 of the master cylinder 126 in the axial direction of the master cylinder 126. The second brake circuit 122 includes a solenoid valve (not shown) and the like. In addition, the second brake circuit 122 controls the hydraulic pressure of each of the wheel cylinders 131 to 134 by opening and closing the solenoid valve in response to a control signal from the second ECU 112.

[0016] Here, for the purpose of explaining the pedal device 1 below, the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle is referred to as the vehicle front-to-rear direction Da. The top-to-bottom direction of the vehicle is referred to as the vehicle up-to-down direction Db. The left-to-right direction of the vehicle is referred to as the vehicle left-to-right direction Dc. The front in the vehicle front-to-rear direction Da is referred to as the front of the vehicle. The rear in the vehicle front-to-rear direction Da is referred to as the rear of the vehicle. The upper side in the vehicle up-to-down direction Db is referred to as the upper side of the vehicle. The lower side in the vehicle up-to-down direction Db is referred to as the lower side of the vehicle. The left side in the vehicle left-to-right direction Dc is referred to as the left side of the vehicle. The right side in the vehicle left-to-right direction Dc is referred to as the right side of the vehicle.

[0017] The pedal device 1 is an organ-type pedal device 1. Therefore, in the pedal device 1, a portion of the pedal 40 in front of a rotation axis CL rotates toward the floor 2 side or the dash panel side in the vehicle cabin in response to an increase in the driver's pedal force applied to a pedal 40 (described later). The dash panel is a partition wall that separates the inside of the vehicle cabin from the outside of the vehicle cabin, such as the engine room, and is sometimes called a bulkhead.

[0018] Specifically, as shown in Figures 2 to 6, the pedal device 1 includes a housing 5, a housing bolt 22, a reaction force generating mechanism 30, a pedal 40, a pad 402, a shaft 41, and a rotating plate 43. The pedal device 1 also includes a sensor unit 50, a connecting rod 60, a rod connecting screw 65, a first stopper 70, a second stopper 75, and a covering member 77. Note that the covering member 77 is omitted in Figure 6.

[0019] The housing 5 has a first housing 10 and a second housing 20 .

[0020] The first housing 10 is made of resin and has a box shape. The first housing 10 has an upper wall 11, a left side wall 12, a right side wall 13, a front wall 14, a housing space 15, a housing opening 16, and a bearing hole 17.

[0021] As shown in Figs. 2 to 4, the upper wall 11 is a wall of the first housing 10 on the upper side of the vehicle. Moreover, as shown in Fig. 4, the upper wall 11 includes a housing hole 100 and a housing end portion 101. Most of the reaction force generating mechanism 30, which will be described later, is inserted into the housing hole 100. The housing end portion 101 forms the housing hole 100. As shown in Fig. 3, the left side wall 12 is a wall of the first housing 10 on the left side of the vehicle.

[0022] 2 and 5, the right side wall 13 is a wall of the first housing 10 on the left side of the vehicle.

[0023] The housing recess 130 is recessed toward the left of the vehicle from the outer surface of the right side wall 13. The housing recess 130 further includes a housing recess bottom surface 305, a housing recess first side surface 301, a housing recess second side surface 302, a housing recess third side surface 303, and a housing recess space 306.

[0024] The housing recess bottom surface 305 faces the right side of the vehicle and is formed in an arc shape centered on a rotation axis CL of the pedal 40 (described later).

[0025] The housing recess first side surface 301 is connected to the vehicle rear side of the housing recess bottom surface 305. In addition, the housing recess first side surface 301 is formed in the shape of a side surface of a circular arc column centered on a rotation axis CL of the pedal 40 described below.

[0026] The housing recess second side surface 302 is connected to the vehicle front side of the housing recess bottom surface 305. In addition, the housing recess second side surface 302 is formed in the shape of a side surface of a circular arc column centered on a rotation axis CL of the pedal 40 described below.

[0027] The housing recess third side surface 303 is connected to one of the housing recess bottom surface 305, the housing recess first side surface 301 and the housing recess second side surface 302 which is located on the upper side of the vehicle.

[0028] Housing recess space 306 is a space formed by housing recess bottom surface 305, housing recess first side surface 301, housing recess second side surface 302, and housing recess third side surface 303. In addition, housing recess space 306 is formed in an arc shape centered on rotation axis CL of pedal 40 (described later) due to the shapes of housing recess bottom surface 305, housing recess first side surface 301, and housing recess second side surface 302.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 4, the front wall 14 is a wall of the first housing 10 on the vehicle front side. The housing space 15 is a space defined by the upper wall 11, the left side wall 12, the right side wall 13, and the front wall 14. The housing opening 16 is an open space defined by an end of the upper wall 11, an end of the left side wall 12, an end of the right side wall 13, and an end of the front wall 14 in the housing space 15. The bearing hole 17 is a cylindrical space extending in the vehicle left-right direction Dc.

[0030] The second housing 20 is formed in a plate shape and is connected to the ends of the top wall 11, the left side wall 12, the right side wall 13, and the front wall 14 of the first housing 10. In addition, for example, bolts (not shown) are inserted into holes (not shown) at the end of the top wall 11 of the first housing 10, holes (not shown) at the end of the left side wall 12, holes (not shown) at the end of the right side wall 13, holes (not shown) at the end of the front wall 14, and holes in the second housing 20 corresponding to these holes. As a result, the second housing 20 is fixed to the first housing 10 and closes the housing opening 16. In addition, the second housing 20 is formed of metal. Furthermore, as described above, the first housing 10 is formed of resin. Therefore, the Young's modulus of the second housing 20 is higher than that of the first housing 10. Therefore, the rigidity of the housing 5 is higher than that in the case where both the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are formed of resin. 3, the second housing 20 and the floor 2 are fixed together by inserting housing bolts 22 into holes in the second housing 20 and holes in the floor 2 corresponding to the holes in the second housing 20. In this way, the pedal device 1 is fixed to the floor 2.

[0031] The reaction force generating mechanism 30 generates a reaction force against the pedal force applied by the driver to the pedal 40. For example, as shown in FIG 4, the reaction force generating mechanism 30 has a leaf spring 31, a lower holder 35, a large diameter coil spring 33, a small diameter coil spring 34, a spring seat 36, and an upper holder 37.

[0032] The leaf spring 31 is bent so as to have a convex curved surface toward the floor 2 side when no load is applied. One end 311 of the leaf spring 31 is connected to the second housing 20 on the vehicle rear side. The lower holder 35 is connected to the other end 312 of the leaf spring 31. The large diameter coil spring 33 is connected to the lower holder 35 on the opposite side to the leaf spring 31. The spring seat 36 has a spring seat small diameter portion 361 and a spring seat large diameter portion 362. The spring seat small diameter portion 361 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the spring seat small diameter portion 361 is disposed in the space inside the large diameter coil spring 33. The spring seat large diameter portion 362 is connected to the spring seat small diameter portion 361 on the opposite side to the bottom. The diameter of the spring seat large diameter portion 362 is larger than the diameter of the spring seat small diameter portion 361. This connects the large diameter spring seat portion 362 and the large diameter coil spring 33. Furthermore, the small diameter coil spring 34 is housed in the small diameter spring seat portion 361 and is connected to the bottom of the small diameter spring seat portion 361.

[0033] The upper holder 37 has a holder small diameter portion 371 and a holder large diameter portion 372. The holder small diameter portion 371 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The holder small diameter portion 371 is disposed in the space inside the small diameter coil spring 34. A pin is inserted into the hole of the leaf spring 31, the hole of the lower holder 35, the hole of the spring seat small diameter portion 361, and the hole of the holder small diameter portion 371, so that the leaf spring 31, the lower holder 35, the spring seat 36, and the upper holder 37 are connected to each other. The pin slides on the inner surface of the holder small diameter portion 371 and also slides on the inner surface of the spring seat small diameter portion 361. The holder large diameter portion 372 is connected to the side of the holder small diameter portion 371 opposite to the spring seat 36. The diameter of the holder large diameter portion 372 is larger than the diameter of the holder small diameter portion 371. This connects the holder large diameter portion 372 and the small diameter coil spring 34. The holder large diameter portion 372 also includes a mechanism side contact surface 373 that contacts the connecting rod 60 described below. The mechanism side contact surface 373 is the surface of the holder large diameter portion 372 on the opposite side to the holder small diameter portion 371, and is a flat surface.

[0034] The pedal 40 is formed in a plate shape and has a pedal plate portion 401 and a rod fixing hole 403.

[0035] The pedal plate portion 401 is made of metal. The pedal plate portion 401 includes a pedal front surface 404 and a pedal back surface 405. The pedal front surface 404 is a surface facing the driver of the vehicle. The pedal back surface 405 is a surface of the pedal plate portion 401 opposite to the pedal front surface 404. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6, the pedal back surface 405 includes an inclined surface 407. The inclined surface 407 is inclined with respect to the direction in which the pedal back surface 405 extends.

[0036] The rod fixing hole 403 is a hole penetrating through the inclined surface 407 of the pedal front surface 404 and the pedal back surface 405 .

[0037] The pad 402 is made of rubber or the like. The pad 402 is connected to the vehicle upper side of the pedal surface 404. The pad 402 is stepped on by the driver of the vehicle. The pad 402 covers the pedal surface 404 side of the rod fixing hole 403. This makes the rod fixing hole 403 invisible to the driver of the vehicle.

[0038] The shaft 41 is made of metal and has a cylindrical shape. The shaft 41 is inserted into a bearing hole 17 of the first housing 10 and is supported by the first housing 10 so as to be rotatable.

[0039] The rotating plate 43 is formed in an L-shape. Moreover, the rotating plate 43 has a back plate portion 44 and a side plate portion 45, as shown in Figs. 2 and 4. The back plate portion 44 is fixed to the pedal back surface 405 by inserting a screw into a hole in the back plate portion 44 and a corresponding hole in the pedal plate portion 401, as shown in Fig. 4. The side plate portion 45 is connected perpendicularly to the right side of the vehicle of the back plate portion 44. Moreover, the side plate portion 45 includes a shaft hole 451 and a stopper hole 452, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0040] The shaft 41 is inserted into the shaft hole 451. Therefore, the pedal 40 is connected to the shaft 41 via the rotating plate 43. As a result, the pedal 40 rotates together with the shaft 41 and the rotating plate 43, with the axis of the shaft 41 serving as the rotation axis CL.

[0041] The stopper hole 452 is formed closer to the vehicle front side than the shaft hole 451. The stopper hole 452 also communicates with the housing recess space 306. Furthermore, a part of a first stopper 70 described later is inserted into the stopper hole 452.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor unit 50 is disposed on the side of the shaft 41 opposite to the side plate portion 45, that is, on the left side of the vehicle. The sensor unit 50 also has a magnet, a yoke, a Hall element, etc., which are not shown. The sensor unit 50 detects the rotation angle of the pedal 40 by detecting the rotation angle of the shaft 41 using the magnet, the yoke, the Hall element, etc. Furthermore, the sensor unit 50 outputs a signal corresponding to the detected rotation angle of the pedal 40 to the first ECU 111 and the second ECU 112. The sensor unit 50 may have an MR element instead of the Hall element. MR is an abbreviation for Magneto Resistive. The sensor unit 50 may also be an inductive sensor that detects the rotation angle using a coil.

[0043] The connecting rod 60 is made of metal and has a rod shape. As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the connecting rod 60 has an arm portion 61 and a push portion 62. Here, the arm portion 61 is formed separately from the push portion 62.

[0044] The arm portion 61 includes an arm hole 611 and an arm recess 612. The arm hole 611 is a hole corresponding to the rod fixing hole 403. By inserting a rod connecting screw 65 into the arm hole 611 and the rod fixing hole 403, the arm portion 61 is fixed to the slope 407 of the pedal back surface 405.

[0045] The arm recess 612 is recessed in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60 from the end face of the arm portion 61 facing the push portion 62, which will be described later. The arm recess 612 also includes an arm recess side surface 614 and an arm recess bottom surface 615. The arm recess side surface 614 is connected to the end face of the arm portion 61 facing the push portion 62, which will be described later. The arm recess bottom surface 615 is connected to the arm recess side surface 614. Furthermore, a space is formed by the arm recess side surface 614 and the arm recess bottom surface 615.

[0046] As shown in Figs. 4 and 6, the push portion 62 extends parallel to the arm portion 61. The push portion 62 includes a push contact portion 621 and a push protrusion 622. The push contact portion 621 contacts the mechanism-side contact surface 373 of the upper holder 37 in the reaction force generating mechanism 30. The push protrusion 622 protrudes from the push contact portion 621 on the opposite side to the mechanism-side contact surface 373 toward the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. The push protrusion 622 is inserted into a space formed by the arm recess side surface 614 and the arm recess bottom surface 615. This connects the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 5, the first stopper 70 is formed in a rod shape extending in the vehicle left-right direction Dc. A part of the first stopper 70 is inserted into the stopper hole 452 of the rotating plate 43. As a result, the first stopper 70 rotates together with the rotating plate 43, the pedal 40, and the shaft 41 around the axis of the shaft 41 as the rotation axis CL. A part of the first stopper 70 is inserted into the housing recess space 306. The second stopper 75 protrudes from the vehicle upper side of the upper wall 11 of the first housing 10 toward the pedal 40. The covering member 77 is called a dust boot, and is formed in a cylindrical and bellows-like shape from rubber that is easily elastically deformed. The covering member 77 expands and contracts in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60 in accordance with the swinging motion of the pedal 40. For example, the covering member 77 blocks the housing hole 100 in a state in which the connecting rod 60 is inserted. This prevents foreign matter from entering the housing space 15 through the housing hole 100 .

[0048] The brake-by-wire system 150 is configured as described above. Next, the operation of the pedal device 1 will be described.

[0049] When the driver of the vehicle is not stepping on the pad 402 of the pedal 40, the large diameter coil spring 33 and the small diameter coil spring 34 of the reaction force generating mechanism 30 are compressed. At this time, the restoring force of the large diameter coil spring 33 and the small diameter coil spring 34 is transmitted to the pedal 40 via the connecting rod 60 connected to the upper holder 37 of the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Due to this restoring force, the pedal 40 tries to rotate in a direction away from the first housing 10. Also, at this time, the first stopper 70 connected to the pedal 40 via the rotating plate 43 comes into contact with the third side surface 303 of the housing recess in the right side wall 13 of the first housing 10. As a result, the position of the pedal 40 is fixed when the driver of the vehicle is not stepping on the pad 402 of the pedal 40.

[0050] When the driver of the vehicle steps on the pad 402 of the pedal 40, the pedal 40 rotates together with the shaft 41 and the rotating plate 43, with the axis of the shaft 41 serving as the rotation axis CL. As a result, the pedal 40 rotates in a direction approaching the first housing 10.

[0051] At this time, the sensor unit 50 detects the rotation angle of the pedal 40 by detecting the rotation angle of the shaft 41. The sensor unit 50 also outputs a signal corresponding to the detected rotation angle of the pedal 40 to the first ECU 111 and the second ECU 112.

[0052] At this time, the first ECU 111 rotates the motor 123, for example, by supplying power to the motor 123. This drives the gear mechanism 125, and moves the master piston 127. As a result, the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid supplied from the reservoir 124 to the master cylinder 126 increases. This increased hydraulic pressure is supplied to the second brake circuit 122.

[0053] Also, the second ECU 112 supplies power to, for example, an electromagnetic valve (not shown) of the second brake circuit 122. This causes the electromagnetic valve of the second brake circuit 122 to open. Therefore, the brake fluid supplied to the second brake circuit 122 is supplied to each wheel cylinder 131-134. Therefore, the brake pads attached to the wheel cylinders 131-134 rub against the corresponding brake discs. As a result, each wheel is braked, and the vehicle decelerates. At this time, the second ECU 112 may perform ABS control, VSC control, collision avoidance control, regenerative cooperative control, and the like, based on a signal from the sensor unit 50 and a signal from another electronic control device (not shown). Note that ABS is an abbreviation for Anti-lock Braking System. Furthermore, VSC is an abbreviation for Vehicle Stability Control.

[0054] At this time, the connecting rod 60 connected to the inclined surface 407 of the pedal back surface 405 rotates together with the pedal 40 around the rotation axis CL while maintaining the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60, as shown in FIG. 6. At this time, the connecting rod 60 passes through the housing hole 100. Furthermore, the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 comes into contact with the upper holder 37 of the reaction force generating mechanism 30, so that the force from the pedal 40 is transmitted to the upper holder 37. As a result, the inner surface of the holder small diameter portion 371 of the upper holder 37 slides against the pin, and the small diameter coil spring 34 is compressed by the upper holder 37. Furthermore, the force from the pedal 40 is transmitted to the spring seat 36 via the small diameter coil spring 34. Furthermore, the upper holder 37 comes into contact with the spring seat 36, so that the force from the pedal 40 is transmitted to the spring seat 36 via the upper holder 37. Therefore, the inner surface of the spring seat small diameter portion 361 of the spring seat 36 slides against the pin, and the large diameter coil spring 33 is compressed by the spring seat 36. Furthermore, the force from the pedal 40 is transmitted to the leaf spring 31 through the large diameter coil spring 33. Therefore, the leaf spring 31 is deflected. Furthermore, the inner surface of the holder small diameter portion 371 of the upper holder 37 slides against the pin, and the holder large diameter portion 372 of the upper holder 37 comes into contact with the pin, so that the force from the pedal 40 is transmitted to the leaf spring 31 through the pin. Thus, the leaf spring 31 is deflected. At this time, the reaction force generating mechanism 30 generates a reaction force against the pedal force applied to the pedal 40 by the driver due to the restoring forces of the leaf spring 31, the large diameter coil spring 33, and the small diameter coil spring 34. Therefore, even if the mechanical connection between the pedal 40 and the master cylinder 126 is eliminated, the pedal device 1 can obtain a reaction force similar to that obtained when the pedal 40 is connected to the master cylinder 126, i.e., when a reaction force is obtained by hydraulic pressure.

[0055] Furthermore, when the driver of the vehicle stops stepping on the pad 402 of the pedal 40, the reaction force of the reaction force generating mechanism 30 causes the pedal 40 to rotate in a direction away from the first housing 10. At this time, the first stopper 70 rotates together with the pedal 40. As a result, the first stopper 70 moves inside the housing recess space 306 and then comes into contact with the housing recess third side surface 303 of the right side wall 13 of the first housing 10. This causes the rotation of the pedal 40 to stop. As a result, the position of the pedal 40 returns to the initial position when the driver of the vehicle is not stepping on the pad 402 of the pedal 40.

[0056] This is how the pedal device 1 operates. Next, how the pedal device 1 suppresses rattling of the pedal 40 will be described.

[0057] The pedal device 1 includes a shaft 41, a pedal 40, a housing 5, a reaction force generating mechanism 30, and a connecting rod 60. The shaft 41 is formed in a rod shape. The pedal 40 rotates together with the shaft 41 around a rotation axis CL when the driver of the vehicle steps on the pedal 40. The reaction force generating mechanism 30 elastically deforms upon receiving a force from the pedal 40 when the driver of the vehicle steps on the pedal 40, thereby generating a reaction force against the pedal force of the driver of the vehicle applied to the pedal 40. The connecting rod 60 has an arm portion 61 and a push portion 62. The arm portion 61 is connected to a pedal back surface 405. The pedal back surface 405 is the surface of the pedal 40 opposite to the surface that is stepped on by the driver of the vehicle. The push portion 62 is connected to the arm portion 61. In addition, the push portion 62 contacts the reaction force generating mechanism 30 when the driver of the vehicle steps on the pedal 40, thereby transmitting the force from the pedal 40 to the reaction force generating mechanism 30. 6, when the driver of the vehicle steps on the pedal 40, the connecting rod 60 rotates together with the pedal 40 about the rotation axis CL while maintaining the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60. The rotation axis CL corresponds to the axis of the shaft 41. The driver of the vehicle corresponds to the operator. The housing 5 corresponds to the support body.

[0058] As a result, the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60 do not slide when the pedal 40 rotates, and thus the occurrence of rattle between the pedal 40 and the connecting rod 60 is suppressed. Furthermore, because the occurrence of rattle is suppressed, the change in the angle of the pedal 40 due to rattle is suppressed. Therefore, the accuracy of the rotation angle of the pedal 40 is improved, and the accuracy of the output value from the sensor unit 50 is improved. This makes it easier for the first ECU 111 to appropriately control the first brake circuit 121, and easier for the second ECU 112 to appropriately control the second brake circuit 122. Therefore, the vehicle brakes are more easily applied appropriately, and the safety of the vehicle is improved.

[0059] In addition, the pedal device 1 also provides the following advantages.

[0060] [1-1] The push portion 62 is in contact with the reaction force generating mechanism 30 when the pedal 40 is not depressed by the driver of the vehicle.

[0061] As a result, when the pedal 40 is not stepped on by the driver of the vehicle, the push portion 62 is supported by the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Therefore, when the pedal 40 is not stepped on by the driver of the vehicle, the connecting rod 60 and the pedal 40 do not rotate, and therefore the shaft 41 connected to the pedal 40 via the rotating plate 43 does not rotate. Therefore, when the pedal 40 is not stepped on by the driver of the vehicle, the shaft 41 and the first housing 10 do not slide, and rattle between the shaft 41 and the first housing 10 is suppressed.

[0062] [1-2] The pedal back surface 405 includes a slope 407. This slope 407 is inclined with respect to the extension direction of the pedal back surface 405. In addition, the arm portion 61 is connected to this slope 407.

[0063] As a result, the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is changed compared to when the arm portion 61 is connected to a part of the pedal back surface 405 other than the inclined surface 407. This changes the contact state between the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Therefore, by adjusting the inclination angle of the inclined surface 407, the contact state between the push portion 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 can be adjusted.

[0064] [1-3] The arm portion 61 is separate from the push portion 62. This allows the material of the arm portion 61 to be changed to a material different from that of the push portion 62.

[0065] [1-4] The side of the arm portion 61 is parallel to the side of the push portion 62. As a result, the orientation of the arm portion 61 and the orientation of the push portion 62 are the same, so the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is constant. This makes it easier to adjust the contact state between the push portion 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30.

[0066] [1-5] The arm portion 61 has an arm recess 612. The arm recess 612 is recessed in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60 from the end face of the arm portion 61 on the push portion 62 side. The arm recess 612 includes an arm recess bottom face 615 and an arm recess side face 614 connected to the arm recess bottom face 615. The push portion 62 has a push protrusion 622. The push protrusion 622 protrudes in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60 from the end face of the push portion 62 on the arm portion 61 side. The push protrusion 622 is inserted into a space formed by the arm recess bottom face 615 and the arm recess side face 614, thereby connecting the push portion 62 and the arm portion 61.

[0067] This fixes the push portion 62 and the arm portion 61 together, making it difficult for the push portion 62 and the arm portion 61 to come off from each other.

[0068] [1-6] The arm portion 61 includes metal. Metal is a material that is relatively resistant to deformation, which makes it difficult for the arm portion 61 to deform. This makes it easier to maintain the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60.

[0069] [1-7] The push portion 62 includes a metal. Metal is a material that is relatively resistant to deformation, which makes it difficult for the push portion 62 to deform. This makes it easier to maintain the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60.

[0070] [1-8] The pedal device 1 further includes a first stopper 70 connected to the pedal 40 via a rotating plate 43. The first stopper 70 stops the rotation of the pedal 40 by coming into contact with the third side surface 303 of the housing recess of the housing 5 when the pedal 40 is not depressed by the driver of the vehicle.

[0071] As a result, when the pedal 40 is not depressed by the driver of the vehicle, the connecting rod 60 and the pedal 40 do not rotate, and therefore the shaft 41 connected to the pedal 40 via the rotating plate 43 does not rotate. Therefore, when the pedal 40 is not depressed by the driver of the vehicle, the shaft 41 and the first housing 10 do not slide, so rattling between the shaft 41 and the first housing 10 is suppressed.

[0072] [1-9] The reaction force generating mechanism 30 has a mechanism-side contact surface 373. This mechanism-side contact surface 373 comes into contact with the push portion 62 when the driver of the vehicle steps on the pedal 40. In addition, the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is flat.

[0073] This makes it possible to reduce the pressure due to the force transmitted from the push portion 62 to the reaction force generating mechanism 30, compared to when the portion of the reaction force generating mechanism 30 that comes into contact with the push portion 62 is angled. This reduces the stress applied to the reaction force generating mechanism 30, making the reaction force generating mechanism 30 less likely to be damaged. In addition, since the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is flat, the reaction force generating mechanism 30 can be manufactured more easily.

[0074] [1-10] A rod fixing hole 403 is formed in the pedal back surface 405. An arm hole 611 corresponding to the rod fixing hole 403 is formed in the arm portion 61. The arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 by inserting a rod connecting screw 65 into the rod fixing hole 403 and the arm hole 611. The rod connecting screw 65 corresponds to a rod-shaped member. The rod-shaped member may be a pin or a snap fit. The rod fixing hole 403 corresponds to the pedal hole.

[0075] As a result, the pedal back surface 405 and the arm portion 61 are fixed together, so that the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is easily maintained.

[0076] [1-11] The rod fixing hole 403 penetrates the pedal back surface 405 and the pedal front surface 404. The pedal front surface 404 is the surface of the pedal 40 opposite to the pedal back surface 405.

[0077] This allows the rod connecting screw 65 to be inserted into the rod fixing hole 403 and the arm hole 611 from the pedal front surface 404 side, facilitating the fixing of the pedal back surface 405 and the arm portion 61. This makes it easier to maintain the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60.

[0078] [1-12] The pedal device 1 includes a pad 402. The pad 402 is connected to a pedal surface 404 and covers a rod fixing hole 403.

[0079] This makes it impossible for the rod fixing hole 403 to be seen from the driver's side of the vehicle, thereby improving the design of the pedal device 1.

[0080] [1-13] The pedal device 1 is mounted on a vehicle and is an organ-type pedal device 1. Specifically, in response to an increase in the pedal force applied to the pedal 40 by the driver of the vehicle, a portion of the pedal 40 that is forward of the rotation axis CL rotates toward a floor 2 inside the vehicle cabin.

[0081] Here, when the pedal device 1 is an organ-type pedal device 1, it is necessary to accommodate the housing 5 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 accommodated in the housing 5 within the vehicle interior, and therefore, it is required to reduce the size of the pedal device 1. In this embodiment, the connecting rod 60 rotates together with the pedal 40 about the rotation axis CL while maintaining the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60, so there is no need to combine multiple links as in a link mechanism. Therefore, compared to a link mechanism, the number of parts can be reduced, and the pedal device 1 can be made smaller. In addition, compared to a link mechanism, the shape of the parts can be simplified, and therefore, the pedal device 1 can be made smaller.

[0082] Second embodiment In the second embodiment, the shape of the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 is different from that of the first embodiment.

[0083] The push contact portion 621 of the push portion 62 includes a push-side contact surface 623. The push-side contact surface 623 is a surface that comes into contact with the mechanism-side contact surface 373 of the reaction force generating mechanism 30 when the driver of the vehicle steps on the pedal 40. This push-side contact surface 623 is formed in a convex shape that is convex toward the reaction force generating mechanism 30 side. Specifically, the push-side contact surface 623 is formed in a spherical shape, as shown in Figs. 7 and 8.

[0084] The second embodiment is configured as described above. The second embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. The second embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0085] [2-1] The push-side contact surface 623 of the push unit 62 is formed in a convex shape that is convex toward the reaction force generating mechanism 30. This allows the contact between the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 to be either point contact or line contact. If the contact between the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is point contact, the surface pressure applied to the mechanism-side contact surface 373 will be the same regardless of the contact position between the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373. This makes it easier to adjust the contact state between the push unit 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Also, if the contact between the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is line contact, the surface pressure applied to the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 can be made smaller than when the contact is point contact. This allows the stress applied to the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 to be reduced, making the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 less likely to be damaged.

[0086] [2-2] The push-side contact surface 623 of the push unit 62 is formed into a spherical shape. This results in point contact between the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373. This makes it easier to adjust the contact state between the push unit 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30, as described above.

[0087] Third embodiment In the third embodiment, the push-side contact surface 623 of the push portion 62 is formed in an arc shape as shown in Figures 7 and 9. The third embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. In addition, the third embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0088] [3] Since the push-side contact surface 623 of the push portion 62 is formed in an arc shape, the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 come into line contact. Therefore, as described above, the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 are less likely to be damaged.

[0089] (Fourth embodiment) The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the pedal 40 and the state of connection between the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60. Other than these, the fourth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 10, the pedal 40 further has a first convex portion 441 and a second convex portion 442. The first convex portion 441 protrudes from the pedal back surface 405 in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. The second convex portion 442 protrudes from the pedal back surface 405 in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. A space is formed by the first convex portion 441 and the second convex portion 442. Furthermore, a part of the arm portion 61 of the connecting rod 60 is inserted into this space, so that the arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 via the first convex portion 441 and the second convex portion 442. Note that in FIG. 10, the pedal device 1 does not include a rod connecting screw 65, the arm portion 61 does not have an arm hole 611, and the pedal 40 does not have a rod fixing hole 403 penetrating the pedal surface 404 and the pedal back surface 405. However, the arm hole 611 and the rod fixing hole 403 may communicate with the space formed by the first convex portion 441 and the second convex portion 442, and the rod connecting screw 65 may be inserted into the rod fixing hole 403, this space, and the arm hole 611. In addition, the pedal back surface 405 may include the inclined surface 407 where it does not include the inclined surface 407.

[0091] The fourth embodiment is configured as described above. The fourth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. The fourth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0092] [4] A part of the arm portion 61 of the connecting rod 60 is inserted into this space, so that the arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 via the first convex portion 441 and the second convex portion 442 .

[0093] As a result, the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is changed depending on the direction in which the first convex portion 441 and the second convex portion 442 protrude. This changes the contact state between the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Therefore, by adjusting the direction in which the first convex portion 441 and the second convex portion 442 protrude, it is possible to adjust the contact state between the push portion 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30. In addition, since the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60 are fixed, the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is easily maintained.

[0094] Fifth embodiment The fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the pedal 40 and the connection state between the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60. Other than these, the fifth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 11, the pedal 40 further has a pedal protrusion 443. The pedal protrusion 443 protrudes from the pedal back surface 405 toward the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. An end face of the pedal protrusion 443 is connected to an end face of the arm portion 61 of the connecting rod 60 by welding, adhesion, or the like. Thus, the arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 via the pedal protrusion 443. Note that in FIG. 11, the pedal device 1 does not include a rod connecting screw 65, the arm portion 61 does not have an arm hole 611, and the pedal 40 does not have a rod fixing hole 403 penetrating the pedal surface 404 and the pedal back surface 405. However, the arm hole 611 and the rod fixing hole 403 may be communicated with a hole formed in the pedal protrusion 443, and the rod connecting screw 65 may be inserted into the rod fixing hole 403, the hole of the pedal protrusion 443, and the arm hole 611. In addition, the pedal back surface 405 may not include the slope 407, but may include the slope 407.

[0096] The fifth embodiment is configured as described above. The fifth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. The fifth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0097] [5] The arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal convex portion 443 of the pedal 40 , and is thereby connected to the pedal back surface 405 via the pedal convex portion 443 .

[0098] The angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 changes depending on the direction in which the pedal convex portion 443 protrudes. This changes the contact state between the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Therefore, by adjusting the direction in which the pedal convex portion 443 protrudes, the contact state between the push portion 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 can be adjusted.

[0099] Sixth embodiment The sixth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the pedal 40 and the state of connection between the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60. Other than these, the sixth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 12, the pedal 40 further has a pedal recess 444. The pedal recess 444 is recessed from the pedal back surface 405 in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. The pedal recess 444 includes a pedal recess side surface 445 and a pedal recess bottom surface 446. The pedal recess side surface 445 is connected to the pedal back surface 405. The pedal recess bottom surface 446 is connected to the pedal recess side surface 445. The pedal recess bottom surface 446 is connected to the pedal recess side surface 445. The pedal recess bottom surface 446 is connected to the end surface of the arm portion 61 by welding and bonding. At this time, the pedal recess bottom surface 446 and the end surface of the arm portion 61 may not be welded or bonded, and a part of the arm portion 61 may be supported by the pedal recess side surface 445 and the pedal recess bottom surface 446. Also, in FIG. 12, the pedal device 1 does not include the rod connecting screw 65, the arm portion 61 does not have the arm hole 611, and the pedal 40 does not have the rod fixing hole 403 penetrating the pedal surface 404 and the pedal back surface 405. However, the arm hole 611 and the rod fixing hole 403 may communicate with the space formed by the pedal recess side surface 445 and the pedal recess bottom surface 446, and the rod connecting screw 65 may be inserted into the rod fixing hole 403, this space, and the arm hole 611. In addition, the pedal back surface 405 may include the slope 407 where it does not include the slope 407.

[0101] The sixth embodiment is configured as described above. The sixth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. The sixth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0102] [6] The arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 via the pedal recess 444 by a portion of the arm portion 61 being inserted into the space formed by the pedal recess side surface 445 and the pedal recess bottom surface 446 .

[0103] The angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 changes depending on the direction in which the pedal recess 444 recesses. This changes the contact state between the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Therefore, by adjusting the direction in which the pedal recess 444 recesses, the contact state between the push portion 62 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 can be adjusted.

[0104] Seventh embodiment The seventh embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60. The rest is the same as the first embodiment.

[0105] 13, the push portion 62 does not have a push protrusion 622, but has a push recess 626. The push recess 626 is recessed in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60 from the end face of the push portion 62 on the arm portion 61 side. The push recess 626 also includes a push recess side surface 627 and a push recess bottom surface 628. The push recess side surface 627 is connected to the end face of the push portion 62 on the arm portion 61 side. The push recess bottom surface 628 is connected to the push recess side surface 627.

[0106] The arm portion 61 does not have an arm recess 612, but has an arm protrusion 616. The arm protrusion 616 protrudes from the end face of the arm portion 61 on the push portion 62 side toward the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. The arm protrusion 616 is inserted into a space formed by a push recess side surface 627 and a push recess bottom surface 628. This connects the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62.

[0107] The seventh embodiment is configured as described above. The seventh embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment, except for the above [1-5]. The seventh embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0108] [7] The push portion 62 has a push recess 626. The push recess 626 is recessed from the end face of the push portion 62 on the arm portion 61 side in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. The push recess 626 includes a push recess bottom face 628 and a push recess side face 627 connected to the push recess bottom face 628. The arm portion 61 has an arm protrusion 616. The arm protrusion 616 protrudes from the end face of the arm portion 61 on the push portion 62 side in the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. The arm protrusion 616 is inserted into a space formed by the push recess bottom face 628 and the push recess side face 627, thereby connecting the push portion 62 and the arm portion 61.

[0109] This fixes the push portion 62 and the arm portion 61 together, making it difficult for the push portion 62 and the arm portion 61 to come off from each other.

[0110] Eighth embodiment The eighth embodiment is different in the form of the pad 402. Other than this, it is similar to the first embodiment.

[0111] 14, the pad 402 includes a pad space 406 that communicates with the rod fixing hole 403. The rod connecting screw 65 is inserted into the pad space 406, the rod fixing hole 403, and the arm hole 611. This connects the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60.

[0112] The eighth embodiment is configured as described above. The eighth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0113] Ninth embodiment In the ninth embodiment, the pedal device 1 does not include the rod connecting screw 65, and the arm portion 61 of the connecting rod 60 does not have an arm hole 611. Also, the connection between the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60 is different from that of the first embodiment. Other than these, it is similar to the first embodiment.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 15, the arm portion 61 has an insertion portion 631 and a support portion 641. The insertion portion 631 is inserted into the rod fixing hole 403. The support portion 641 is connected to the opposite side of the insertion portion 631 to the push portion 62, and is inserted into the rod fixing hole 403. In addition, the length of the support portion 641 is longer than the length of the insertion portion 631 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting rod 60. Therefore, the support portion 641 is in contact with the surface of the pedal 40 that forms the rod fixing hole 403. Therefore, the arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 by caulking.

[0115] The ninth embodiment is configured as described above. The ninth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment, except for the above [1-10]. The ninth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0116] [8] The pedal 40 is formed with a rod fixing hole 403. The rod fixing hole 403 penetrates the pedal back surface 405 and the pedal front surface 404. The arm portion 61 has an insertion portion 631 and a support portion 641. The insertion portion 631 is inserted into the rod fixing hole 403. The support portion 641 is connected to the opposite side of the insertion portion 631 from the push portion side. In addition, the length of the support portion 641 is longer than the length of the insertion portion 631 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting rod 60, so that the support portion 641 is in contact with the pedal 40. In addition, the arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 by inserting the insertion portion 631 into the rod fixing hole 403.

[0117] Since the pedal back surface 405 and the arm portion 61 are fixed by the support portion 641, the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is easily maintained.

[0118] Tenth embodiment The tenth embodiment differs from the ninth embodiment in the arrangement of the support portion 641 of the arm portion 61. Other than this, the tenth embodiment is similar to the ninth embodiment.

[0119] 16, the support portion 641 is disposed in the pad space 406 of the pad 402. Therefore, the support portion 641 is in contact with the pedal surface 404 of the pedal 40.

[0120] The tenth embodiment is configured in this manner. The tenth embodiment also provides the same effects as the ninth embodiment.

[0121] Eleventh embodiment In the eleventh embodiment, as shown in Fig. 17, the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 are integrally formed. Other than this, it is the same as the first embodiment. The eleventh embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment, except for the above [1-3]. In addition, the eleventh embodiment also provides the effects described below.

[0122] [9] Since the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62 are integrally formed, the number of parts can be reduced compared to when the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62 are formed separately.

[0123] Twelfth embodiment In the twelfth embodiment, the shape of a mechanism-side contact surface 373 of a reaction force generating mechanism 30 differs from those in the second and third embodiments.

[0124] 18, the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is formed in a concave shape recessed inwardly of the reaction force generating mechanism 30. Specifically, the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is formed in a spherical shape and an arc shape.

[0125] The twelfth embodiment is configured as described above. The twelfth embodiment also provides the same effects as the second and third embodiments. The twelfth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0126]

[10] The push-side contact surface 623 of the push portion 62 is formed in a convex shape, and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is formed in a concave shape recessed inwardly into the reaction force generating mechanism 30. This makes it possible to increase the contact area between the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373. This makes it possible to reduce the surface pressure applied to the push-side contact surface 623 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373. This makes it possible to reduce the stress applied to the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30, making the connecting rod 60 and the reaction force generating mechanism 30 less likely to be damaged.

[0127] Thirteenth embodiment In the thirteenth embodiment, the pedal device 1 does not include the rod connecting screw 65, and the arm portion 61 of the connecting rod 60 does not have an arm hole 611. Also, the connection between the pedal back surface 405 and the connecting rod 60 is different from that of the first embodiment. Other than these, it is similar to the first embodiment.

[0128] A part of the arm portion 61 is press-fitted into the rod fixing hole 403. As a result, a part of the arm portion 61 is inserted into the rod fixing hole 403, as shown in Fig. 19. Therefore, the arm portion 61 and the pedal 40 are connected to each other.

[0129] The thirteenth embodiment is configured as described above. The thirteenth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment, except for the above [1-10]. The thirteenth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0130]

[11] The pedal 40 is formed with a rod fixing hole 403. The rod fixing hole 403 penetrates the pedal back surface 405 and the pedal surface 404. The arm portion 61 is connected to the pedal back surface 405 by a part of the arm portion 61 being inserted into the rod fixing hole 403. Note that the rod fixing hole 403 penetrates the pedal back surface 405 and the pedal surface 404, but is not limited to penetrating the pedal back surface 405 and the pedal surface 404. The rod fixing hole 403 may be a hole recessed from the pedal back surface 405.

[0131] As a result, the pedal back surface 405 and the arm portion 61 are fixed together, so that the angle θL between the pedal back surface 405 and the axis OL of the connecting rod 60 is easily maintained.

[0132] Fourteenth embodiment In the fourteenth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 20, the arm portion 61 and the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 are formed of a resin such as PTFE, not of a metal. The arm portion 61 and the push portion 62 of the connecting rod 60 may be formed of a composite material formed of a metal and a resin. PTFE is an abbreviation for Poly Tetra Fluoro Ethylene.

[0133] The fourteenth embodiment is configured in this manner. The fourteenth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. The fourteenth embodiment also provides the following effects.

[0134] [12-1] The arm portion 61 includes resin. Since resin has a relatively small specific gravity, it is possible to reduce the weight of the connecting rod 60. As a result, it is possible to reduce the weight of the pedal device 1.

[0135] [12-2] The push portion 62 contains resin. Resin has a relatively small specific gravity, so the connecting rod 60 can be made light. This makes it possible to reduce the weight of the pedal device 1. The push portion 62 also contains PTFE. This reduces the coefficient of friction between the push portion 62 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373 of the reaction force generating mechanism 30 compared to when the push portion 62 contains metal. This improves the slidability between the push portion 62 and the mechanism-side contact surface 373.

[0136] (Other embodiments) The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and appropriate modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments. Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, it goes without saying that the elements constituting the embodiments are not necessarily essential, except in cases where they are particularly clearly stated as essential or where they are clearly considered essential in principle.

[0137] In the above embodiment, the pedal device 1 is used as a brake pedal in the brake-by-wire system 150 that controls the brakes of the vehicle. However, the pedal device 1 is not limited to being used as a brake pedal. The pedal device 1 may be used, for example, as an accelerator pedal that accelerates the vehicle.

[0138] In the above embodiment, the pedal device 1 is an organ-type pedal device 1. However, the pedal device 1 is not limited to being an organ-type pedal device 1. For example, the pedal device 1 may be a suspended pedal device 1. In the suspended pedal device 1, a portion of the pedal 40 that is rearward of the rotation axis CL rotates toward the floor 2 or dash panel in the vehicle cabin in response to an increase in the pedal force applied by the driver to the pedal 40.

[0139] In the above embodiment, the reaction force generating mechanism 30 uses the leaf spring 31, the large diameter coil spring 33, and the small diameter coil spring 34 as elastic members. However, the number of elastic members in the reaction force generating mechanism 30 is not limited to three. The number of elastic members in the reaction force generating mechanism 30 may be one or more.

[0140] In the above embodiment, in the brake-by-wire system 150, the master cylinder 126 generates hydraulic pressure in the brake fluid flowing through the brake circuit 120. However, the present invention is not limited to the master cylinder 126 generating hydraulic pressure in the brake fluid flowing through the brake circuit 120. For example, hydraulic pressure may be generated in the brake fluid flowing through the brake circuit 120 by a hydraulic pump.

[0141] In the above embodiment, the arm portion 61 of the connecting rod 60 is connected to the pedal back surface 405. However, the arm portion 61 may be connected to the pedal back surface 405 via an intermediate member such as a shim.

[0142] In the above-described second and third embodiments, the push-side contact surface 623 of the push portion 62 is formed into a spherical shape or a circular arc shape, thereby being formed into a convex shape. In contrast, the push-side contact surface 623 is not limited to being formed into a spherical shape or a circular arc shape, and may be formed into a convex shape by being formed into an elliptical arc shape or the like.

[0143] In the twelfth embodiment, the mechanism-side contact surface 373 of the reaction force generating mechanism 30 is formed into a spherical shape and a circular arc shape, thereby being formed into a concave shape. In contrast, the mechanism-side contact surface 373 is not limited to being formed into a spherical shape and a circular arc shape, and may be formed into a concave shape by being formed into an elliptical arc shape or the like.

[0144] In the above embodiment, the first housing 10 of the housing 5 is formed in a box shape. However, the first housing 10 is not limited to being formed in a box shape, and may be, for example, in a plate shape.

[0145] The above embodiments may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 5. Housing 30 Reaction force generating mechanism 40 Pedals 41 Shaft 60 Connecting rod 61 Arm section 62 Push part 405 Pedal back

Claims

1. 1. A pedal device comprising: A shaft (41) formed in a rod shape; a pedal (40) that rotates together with the shaft about the axis (CL) of the shaft when depressed by an operator; A support (5) that rotatably supports the shaft; a reaction force generating mechanism (30) that generates a reaction force against the pedaling force of the operator applied to the pedal by elastically deforming upon receiving a force from the pedal when the operator steps on the pedal; A coupling portion (60) connected to a pedal back surface (405) which is a surface of the pedal opposite to a surface stepped on by the operator; Equipped with the coupling portion transmits a force from the pedal to the reaction force generating mechanism when the operator steps on the pedal; The pedal is formed with a hole (403) recessed from the rear surface of the pedal, A pedal device in which the pedal and the connecting portion are fixed together by press-fitting the connecting portion into the hole.

2. 1. A pedal device comprising: A shaft (41) formed in a rod shape; a pedal (40) that rotates together with the shaft about the axis (CL) of the shaft when depressed by an operator; A support (5) that rotatably supports the shaft; a reaction force generating mechanism (30) that generates a reaction force against the pedaling force of the operator applied to the pedal by elastically deforming upon receiving a force from the pedal when the operator steps on the pedal; A coupling portion (60) connected to a pedal back surface (405) which is a surface of the pedal opposite to a surface stepped on by the operator; Equipped with the coupling portion transmits a force from the pedal to the reaction force generating mechanism when the operator steps on the pedal; The pedal is formed with a protrusion protruding from the rear surface of the pedal, The connecting portion has a hole formed therein corresponding to the protrusion, The pedal device has a protrusion press-fitted into the hole, thereby fixing the pedal and the connecting portion.

3. 3. The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the connecting portion is in contact with the reaction force generating mechanism when the operator is not stepping on the pedal.

4. The pedal back surface includes a slope (407) that is inclined with respect to a direction in which the pedal back surface extends, The pedal device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion is connected to the inclined surface.

5. the coupling portion has a contact surface (623) that comes into contact with the reaction force generating mechanism when the operator steps on the pedal, 3. The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the contact surface is formed in a convex shape that is convex toward the reaction force generating mechanism.

6. The pedal device according to claim 5 , wherein the contact surface is formed in a spherical shape.

7. The pedal device according to claim 5 , wherein the contact surface is formed in an arc shape.

8. the reaction force generating mechanism has a mechanism-side contact surface (373) that comes into contact with the connecting portion when the operator steps on the pedal, 3. The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism-side contact surface is formed in a concave shape recessed inwardly of the reaction force generating mechanism.

9. the reaction force generating mechanism has a mechanism-side contact surface (373) that comes into contact with the connecting portion when the operator steps on the pedal, 3. The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism-side contact surface is flat.

10. The pedal further has a first protrusion (441) and a second protrusion (442) protruding from the rear surface of the pedal, the hole communicates with a space formed by the first protrusion and the second protrusion, The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the connecting portion is connected to the back surface of the pedal via the first convex portion and the second convex portion by inserting a portion of the connecting portion into the hole and the space formed by the first convex portion and the second convex portion.

11. The pedal device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion includes a metal.

12. The pedal device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion includes a resin.

13. A stopper (70) connected to the pedal, 3. The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the stopper stops rotation of the pedal by coming into contact with the support body when the pedal is not depressed by the operator.

14. The pedal device is mounted on a vehicle, 3. The pedal device according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the pedal forward of the axis of the shaft rotates toward a floor (2) inside the vehicle cabin in response to an increase in the force applied to the pedal by the operator.

Images