Passive type pedal simulator

Abstract

A pedal simulator is disclosed. The pedal simulator comprises a main bracket, a pedal link, a pedal spring, an elastic module, a linear bracket, and a connecting link. The connecting link extends from the pedal link and is formed to be rotatable together with the pedal link around the rotation axis, and has a fastening hole that forms a path through which a fastening pin of the linear bracket is inserted and moves, extending from a first point to a second point located in a second direction ahead of the first point. The fastening hole moves continuously away from the rotation axis as it moves from the first point toward the second point, and from the point when the pedal link rotates to a first angle relative to the first rotation direction, the first module spring elastically supports the first compression bar, and from the point when the pedal link rotates to a second angle relative to the first rotation direction, the second module spring elastically supports the second compression bar. According to the pedal simulator of the present invention, the pedal force simulation rate is increased, and the disadvantages of a passive pedal simulator specialized for a single vehicle are overcome to correspond to the pedal force characteristics of multiple vehicles, while forming a compact structure.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pedal simulator for a vehicle, and more specifically, to a pedal simulator that can be applied to a braking system of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, active research is being conducted in the field of vehicle braking to transition from conventional hydraulic braking systems to electromechanical braking systems. Conventional hydraulic braking systems consist of hydraulic calipers, tubing, a master cylinder, and a booster. Meanwhile, in electromechanical braking systems, existing hydraulic braking components, including tubing, are removed and replaced with electromechanical calipers, wires, and pedal simulators to perform braking functions.

[0003] Here, the pedal simulator serves to transmit the driver's braking intent (required deceleration) to the electromechanical caliper. If the pedal simulator fails to simulate the pedal force generated by conventional hydraulic braking systems, the driver will experience a sense of unfamiliarity and anxiety. Therefore, the ability to simulate the pedal force of existing hydraulic braking systems is crucial in the development of pedal simulators. Meanwhile, it is known that the pedal force of hydraulic braking systems varies depending on the configuration environment of the hydraulic components installed in each vehicle, resulting in different pedal force characteristics for each vehicle.

[0004] In implementing the pedal force simulation function of a pedal simulator, there are active-type pedal simulators that utilize electric motors to simulate pedal force, and passive-type pedal simulators that simulate pedal force using only mechanical elements. The active type has the advantage of being able to accurately simulate the pedal force of various vehicles through controller configuration and gain tuning; however, it has the disadvantage of requiring a large space and being expensive to implement due to the installation of motors, motor drivers, and related components. In contrast, the passive type, which simulates pedal force using only mechanical elements, has the advantage of being smaller in volume and lower in cost compared to the active type, but it has the disadvantage of being difficult to support for a wide range of vehicles.

[0005] Meanwhile, in the case of previously reported pedal simulators, some parts related to the hydraulic braking system were retained as a transitional phase in the configuration of the pedal simulator, and additional mechanisms or parts were incorporated based on these parts to implement the pedal force simulation function. Since such a pedal simulator method utilizing existing hydraulic braking parts cannot be used when implemented as a complete brake-by-wire system—that is, when all parts related to the hydraulic braking system are removed—there is a need to develop a pedal simulator capable of simulating hydraulic pedal force without utilizing existing hydraulic parts.

[0006] Furthermore, since the available space for pedal mounting varies depending on the vehicle and various types of mobility, it is necessary to develop a pedal simulator that can be mounted within a given allowable space range while performing the function of simulating the required pedal force.

[0007] In particular, since the direction in which the pedal is pressed generally coincides with the direction toward the vehicle's engine compartment, improvements are required to minimize the use of space in front of the direction in which the pedal is pressed. The problem to be solved

[0008] The present disclosure describes a compact passive-type pedal simulator that increases the pedal force simulation rate by corresponding to various inflection point characteristics appearing in the pedal force curve, and overcomes the disadvantages of a passive pedal simulator specialized for a single vehicle to respond to the pedal force characteristics of multiple vehicles.

[0009] The present disclosure describes a passive type pedal simulator with a compact structure even in the lateral direction (direction of the pedal's axis of rotation).

[0010] The present disclosure describes a pedal simulator having a structure that, in the operation of the pedal simulator, minimizes the use of the front space in the direction in which the pedal link is pressed, prevents movement of the part toward the front of the bracket to which the pedal link is coupled (in the front of the direction in which the pedal link is pressed), and enables effective elastic support of the elastic module for the rotational movement of the pedal link.

[0011] The present disclosure describes a pedal simulator having a structure that prevents unnecessary friction and enables smooth operation in the operation of the pedal simulator. means of solving the problem

[0012] A pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main bracket; a pedal link rotatably coupled to the main bracket around a rotation axis parallel to a first direction and having a pedal at its end; a pedal spring that elastically supports the pedal link while undergoing elastic deformation when the pedal link rotates in a first rotation direction; an elastic module coupled to the main bracket at a point spaced apart from the rotation axis in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and including a first module spring and a second module spring; and a linear bracket configured to reciprocate along the third direction behind the elastic module with respect to the first direction and the third direction orthogonal to the second direction, and including a fastening pin in the first direction, a first compression bar protruding in the third direction, and a second compression bar. and a connecting link that extends from the pedal link and is rotatably formed around the rotation axis together with the pedal link, and has a fastening hole that forms a path through which the fastening pin is inserted and moves, as an elongated hole from a first point to a second point located in front of the first point in the second direction.

[0013] The above fastening hole moves continuously away from the rotation axis as it moves from the first point toward the second point.

[0014] From the point when the pedal link is rotated to a first angle based on the first rotational direction, the first module spring elastically supports the first compression bar.

[0015] From the point when the pedal link is rotated to a second angle based on the first rotational direction, the second module spring elastically supports the second compression bar.

[0016] Based on the above rotation axis, the length to the second point can be 1.5 to 2.5 times the length to the first point.

[0017] Based on the first reference line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the third direction, the second point is located in front of the second direction.

[0018] When no external force is applied to the above pedal link, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the rotation axis and the fastening pin and the line segment connecting the first point and the second point may be 25 to 45°.

[0019] The above fastening hole can be formed in a straight line.

[0020] The main bracket comprises: an upper bracket on which the rotation axis is formed; and an intermediate bracket extending from the upper bracket toward the opposite side of the third direction in the front of the second direction.

[0021] The above pedal simulator comprises a pair of rails that are coupled to the inner side of the intermediate bracket facing the pedal link, extend along the third direction, and are spaced apart from the first direction.

[0022] The above linear bracket is coupled to the rail so as to be reciprocally movable.

[0023] In the above intermediate bracket, a hollow center slot is formed in the center along the third direction so that the connecting link can enter, and the rail can be coupled to the intermediate bracket so that the center slot is exposed.

[0024] Each of the pair of rails may comprise a sliding surface forming a rear surface in the second direction; and a rail surface formed along the third direction, wherein the concave rail groove is formed as a surface bent in the second direction at each end of the sliding surface.

[0025] The above pedal simulator may comprise a pair of sliders that are integrally formed with a rail projection inserted into and closely attached to the rail groove and a sliding connection part closely attached to the sliding surface, which are fastened to the rail and fixed to the linear bracket.

[0026] The above slider may be made of lubricating engineering plastic.

[0027] The above-mentioned fastening pin may have a circular cross-section and be made of a lubricating engineering plastic.

[0028] The above-mentioned fastening pin can be rotatably coupled to the linear bracket so as to be able to roll when moving along the fastening hole.

[0029] The above pedal simulator can be symmetrical with respect to a reference plane that is orthogonal to the first direction and crosses the center of the main bracket. Effects of the invention

[0030] In a pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening hole moves continuously away from the axis of rotation as it moves from a first point toward a second point, and from the point when the pedal link is rotated by a first angle with respect to a first rotational direction, the first module spring elastically supports the first compression bar, and from the point when the pedal link is rotated by a second angle with respect to the first rotational direction, the second module spring elastically supports the second compression bar. According to the pedal simulator of the present invention, excellent simulation of pedal force is achieved, and the disadvantages of a passive pedal simulator specialized for a single vehicle are overcome so as to be able to respond to the pedal force characteristics of various vehicles, while forming a pedal simulator with a compact structure.

[0031] In a pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention, the pedal link, elastic module, and linear bracket may be arranged on a reference plane, thereby forming a compact pedal simulator in the lateral direction (direction of the pedal's axis of rotation).

[0032] In a pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention, the length from the rotation axis to the second point is 1.5 to 2.5 times the length from the first point. Based on a first reference line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the third direction, the second point is located in front of the second direction. When no external force is applied to the pedal link, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the rotation axis and the fastening pin and the line segment connecting the first point and the second point is 25 to 45°. The fastening hole is formed in a straight line shape. According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the pedal link and the connecting link rotate around the rotation axis, the linear bracket moves in the third direction and can be elastically supported by the elastic module. The connecting link, the elastic module, and the linear bracket do not move toward the front of the bracket to which the pedal link is coupled, the use of the front space in the direction where the pedal link is pressed can be minimized, and elastic support by the elastic module can be effectively achieved.

[0033] A pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a rail and a slider, and the slider is made of a lubricating engineering plastic. A fastening pin has a circular cross-section and is rotatably coupled to a linear bracket so as to roll when moving along a fastening hole. According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the operation of the pedal simulator, unnecessary friction is prevented and smooth operation is achieved, and smooth movement of the linear bracket is achieved in correspondence with the rotation of the pedal link.

[0034] Additional effects according to embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0035] Figure 1 is a graph illustrating pedal force in a typical vehicle. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a front view illustrating a pedal simulator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4a is a side view illustrating the pedal simulator shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, FIG. 4b is a drawing showing the pedal link and connecting link rotated in a first rotational direction so that the first compression bar is elastically supported by the first module spring in the pedal simulator of FIG. 4a, and FIG. 4c is a drawing showing the pedal link and connecting link rotated in a first rotational direction so that the second compression bar is elastically supported by the second module spring in the pedal simulator of FIG. 4a. FIGS. 5A, FIGS. 5B, and FIGS. 5C are drawings illustrating the combination relationships of some components in the pedal simulator shown in FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, respectively. Figure 6 is a drawing showing the elastic module and linear bracket part of the pedal simulator shown in Figures 2 and 3. Figure 7 is a drawing illustrating the elastic module portion. FIG. 8a is a drawing showing the state in which the first compression bar presses the first module spring, and FIG. 8b is a drawing showing the state in which the second compression bar presses the second module spring. The graph shown in FIG. 9 is a graph showing the relationship between the angular displacement of the pedal link and the applied torque when the pedal link rotates in the first rotational direction in the pedal simulator shown in FIG. 4a. Figure 10 is a graph showing the angular displacement of the pedal link and the linear displacement of the linear bracket over time when operating the pedal simulator shown in Figure 4a. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0036] Hereinafter, in order to explain the present invention more specifically, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout the detailed description, the same reference numerals indicate the same components.

[0037] In describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that they include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and technical scope of the invention.

[0038] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0039] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0040] Where one component is described as being "coupled" to another component, unless otherwise specifically limited, it may be directly coupled to the other component, fixedly coupled to the other component, or coupled to the other component without relative movement.

[0041] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0042] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0043] Figure 1 is a graph illustrating pedal force in a typical vehicle.

[0044] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a front view illustrating a pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] First, the differences in pedal force characteristics by vehicle are described.

[0046] FIG. 1 is an example of a pedal (230) pedal force curve, where the x-axis represents the angular displacement of the pedal and the y-axis represents the torque value felt as a reaction force.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 1, the reaction torque value felt through the pedal exhibits different characteristics depending on the pedal's rotation angle. This is because each vehicle is equipped with a different hydraulic braking system. Meanwhile, in Fig. 1, which illustrates the reaction torque felt by the driver according to pedal angle of displacement, it can be seen that there is an inflection point where the slope of the reaction torque relative to the angle of displacement—that is, the stiffness—changes abruptly (indicated by a circle in Fig. 1).

[0048] In the implementation of the passive type pedal simulator (1) (hereinafter referred to as 'pedal simulator (1)') according to an embodiment of the present invention, a stiffness element (e.g., a stiffness spring) corresponding to the angle position of the pedal link (200) corresponding to the inflection point as described above is added so that hydraulic pedal force characteristics can be effectively simulated.

[0049] Hereinafter, the structure and operation method of the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0050] The first direction (X), second direction (Y), and third direction (Z) shown in the drawings describing embodiments of the present invention may each be directions orthogonal to each other.

[0051] A pedal simulator (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main bracket (100), a pedal link (200), an elastic module (300), a linear bracket (400), and a connecting link (500).

[0052] The main bracket (100) can form the overall frame of the pedal simulator (1). Other components forming the pedal simulator (1) can be combined with the main bracket (100), and the main bracket (100) supports these components.

[0053] The main bracket (100) may be formed by including an upper bracket (110) and an intermediate bracket (120). Additionally, the main bracket (100) may be formed by including a lower bracket (130).

[0054] The upper bracket (110) is configured to allow the pedal link (200) to be rotatably coupled. That is, the upper bracket (110) is provided with an axis of rotation (a1) of the pedal link (200). In the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the direction (axial direction) of the axis of rotation (a1) may be defined as a first direction (X). The first direction (X) may be a direction parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0055] The second direction (Y) described in the embodiments of the present invention is a direction orthogonal to the first direction (X). The second direction (Y) may be a direction parallel to the horizontal direction. The second direction (Y) may be a direction that forms a predetermined inclination with the horizontal direction.

[0056] The second direction (Y) is a direction that generally coincides with the direction in which the pedal link (200) is pressed.

[0057] The upper bracket (110) is formed to have a predetermined length. The upper bracket (110) may be extended parallel to the second direction (Y) from the axis of rotation (a1). That is, the upper bracket (110) is formed to have a predetermined length along the second direction (Y).

[0058] The intermediate bracket (120) can be formed integrally with the upper bracket (110), or can be fixedly coupled to the upper bracket (110).

[0059] The intermediate bracket (120) is connected to the upper bracket (110) at a point spaced apart from the axis of rotation (a1). When the axis of rotation (a1) is formed at the rear portion relative to the second direction (Y) in the upper bracket (110), the intermediate bracket (120) is connected to the front portion relative to the second direction (Y) in the upper bracket (110).

[0060] The intermediate bracket (120) can be extended from the upper bracket (110) in parallel with a third direction (Z) that is orthogonal to the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y).

[0061] When the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y) are directions parallel to the horizontal direction, the third direction (Z) may be a direction parallel to the vertical direction.

[0062] In an embodiment of the present invention, unless otherwise specifically limited, the second direction (Y) is the forward direction and the third direction (Z) is the upward direction.

[0063] The intermediate bracket (120) can be divided into two or more parts, and each part of the intermediate bracket (120) can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X).

[0064] A center slot (121), which is a hole penetrating in the second direction (Y), may be formed in the intermediate bracket (120). The center slot (121) may be formed in the center of the intermediate bracket (120).

[0065] The center slot (121) can be formed along the third direction (Z).

[0066] When the pedal link (200) is connected to the upper bracket (110) and rotates, a part of the pedal link (200) can enter the center slot (121).

[0067] The lower bracket (130) can be formed integrally with the middle bracket (120), or can be fixedly coupled to the middle bracket (120).

[0068] The lower bracket (130) may be formed on the opposite side of the upper bracket (110) with the middle bracket (120) as the center. In one embodiment, when the upper bracket (110) is located relatively higher, the lower bracket (130) may be located relatively lower.

[0069] The upper direction described in the present invention can be understood as the direction from the lower bracket (130) toward the upper bracket (110), and the lower direction as the direction from the upper bracket (110) toward the lower bracket (130).

[0070] The lower bracket (130) can be formed to have a predetermined length along the first direction (X) and also to have a predetermined length along the second direction (Y).

[0071] In the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the lower bracket (130) may not be provided when the middle bracket (120) is coupled to the vehicle body.

[0072] As described above, the pedal link (200) is rotatably coupled to the upper bracket (110) around a rotation axis (a1) parallel to the first direction (X), and the pedal link (200) can be rotatably coupled to the upper bracket (110) in the first rotation direction (R1) or in the opposite direction of the first rotation direction (R1).

[0073] The pedal link (200) is formed to have a predetermined length (length from the rotation axis (a1) of the rotation part (210) to the pedal (230)).

[0074] The pedal link (200) may comprise a rotating part (210), a link part (220), and a pedal (230). The rotating part (210) and the pedal (230) may form opposite ends of the pedal link (200) centered around the link part (220). The rotating part (210), the link part (220), and the pedal (230) may be formed integrally with each other, or they may be formed separately and then fixedly joined together.

[0075] The rotating part (210) is a part connected to the upper bracket (110). In order to combine the rotating part (210) and the upper bracket (110), and also to form the rotation axis (a1) of the pedal link (200), a rotating shaft (240) may be fastened by penetrating the rotating part (210) and the upper bracket (110). The rotation axis (a1) of the pedal link (200) is formed in the rotating part (210).

[0076] The link portion (220) connects the rotating portion (210) and the pedal (230) to each other. The link portion (220) can be made relatively thin and long compared to the pedal (230).

[0077] The pedal (230) forms the free end portion of the pedal link (200). When an external force is applied to the pedal link (200) in the second direction (Y), such as when a user steps on the pedal (230) to apply pressure, the pedal link (200) can rotate in the first rotational direction (R1) relative to the main bracket (100).

[0078] In a state where no separate external force acts on the pedal link (200) (in a state where the pedal link (200) is supported by the pedal spring (250)), the rotating part (210) is located relatively in front (upper side) of the third direction (Z) and the pedal (230) is located relatively behind (lower side) of the third direction (Z). And in the second direction (Y), the pedal (230) can be located relatively behind the rotating part (210). Accordingly, toward the opposite side of the second direction (Y), the pedal link (200) can be formed in an overall downward inclined shape.

[0079] When the user pushes the pedal (230) toward the second direction (Y), the pedal link (200) rotates in the first rotational direction (R1).

[0080] The first rotational direction (R1) is the direction in which the connecting link (500) presses the linear bracket (400) so that the linear bracket (400) comes closer to the elastic module (300) among the rotational directions of the pedal link (200) centered on the rotation axis (a1).

[0081] When the pedal link (200) rotates in the first rotational direction (R1), the connecting link (500) also rotates in the first rotational direction (R1), and as the linear bracket (400) connected to the connecting link (500) moves in the third direction (Z), the linear bracket (400) presses against the elastic module (300).

[0082] A pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a pedal spring (250).

[0083] The pedal spring (250) elastically supports the pedal link (200) against the upper bracket (110). By supporting the pedal link (200) with the pedal spring (250), the pedal link (200) can maintain a fixed position against the upper bracket (110) without any external force acting on the pedal link (200). For example, the link portion (220) of the pedal link (200) can maintain a predetermined inclined angle with respect to the upper bracket (110) and the intermediate bracket (120), respectively.

[0084] The pedal spring (250) may be coupled to the upper bracket (110) to elastically support the pedal link (200) in the opposite direction of the first rotational direction (R1). That is, when the pedal link (200) rotates in the first rotational direction (R1), the pedal spring (250) applies rotational force to the pedal link (200) so that the pedal link (200) rotates in the opposite direction of the first rotational direction (R1).

[0085] When an external force is applied to the pedal link (200) to rotate the pedal link (200) in the first rotational direction (R1), the pedal spring (250) is elastically deformed and stores elastic energy, and when the external force applied to the pedal link (200) is removed, the pedal spring (250) elastically recovers and can rotate the pedal link (200) in the opposite direction of the first rotational direction (R1), and accordingly, the pedal link (200) can move to its original position.

[0086] The pedal spring (250) can be formed in various shapes and structures within the range of elastically supporting the pedal link (200) against the upper bracket (110). The pedal spring (250) can be made of a coil spring, a leaf spring, a torsion spring, etc.

[0087] When the pedal spring (250) is made of a torsion spring, the pedal spring (250) is fitted onto a rotating shaft (240), so that one end of the pedal spring (250) is supported by an upper bracket (110) and the other end is supported by a pedal link (200).

[0088] By providing a pedal spring (250), as described above, the link portion (220) of the pedal link (200) can maintain a predetermined inclined angle with each of the upper bracket (110) and the middle bracket (120) without any external force acting.

[0089] In the pedal simulator (1), the pedal link (200), connecting link (500), elastic module (300), and linear bracket (400) are positioned on a reference plane (RS) that is orthogonal to the first direction (X) and crosses the center of the main bracket (100). The reference plane (RS) is a plane that crosses the center of the pedal simulator (1). The pedal link (200), connecting link (500), elastic module (300), and linear bracket (400) are positioned in the center in the left-right direction of the pedal simulator (1), thereby allowing for a compact structure in the lateral direction of the pedal simulator (1).

[0090] The pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a left-right symmetrical structure centered on a reference plane (RS).

[0091] FIG. 4a is a side view illustrating the pedal simulator (1) illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, FIG. 4b is a drawing showing the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotated in the first rotational direction (R1) so that the first compression bar (440) is elastically supported by the first module spring (320) in the pedal simulator (1) of FIG. 4a, FIG. 4c is a drawing showing the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotated in the first rotational direction (R1) so that the second compression bar (450) is elastically supported by the second module spring (330) in the pedal simulator (1) of FIG. 4a.

[0092] FIGS. 5A, FIGS. 5B, and FIGS. 5C are drawings illustrating the combined relationships of some components in the pedal simulator (1) shown in FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the elastic module (300) and linear bracket (400) portions of the pedal simulator (1) shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.

[0094] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing the elastic module (300) portion.

[0095] FIG. 8a is a drawing showing the state in which the first compression bar (440) presses the first module spring (320), and FIG. 8b is a drawing showing the state in which the second compression bar (450) presses the second module spring (330).

[0096] In the drawings illustrating embodiments of the present invention, some components including the first module spring (320) and the second module spring (330) are provided inside the elastic module (300), but for convenience of explanation, some components including the first module spring (320) and the second module spring (330) located inside the elastic module (300) are shown with thin lines so that their shape is visible.

[0097] The connecting link (500) can be extended integrally from the pedal link (200). The connecting link (500) can be formed separately from the pedal link (200) and then fixedly connected to the pedal link (200).

[0098] The connecting link (500) is configured to rotate around the rotation axis (a1) together with the pedal link (200). That is, when the pedal link (200) rotates around the rotation axis (a1), the connecting link (500) also rotates around the rotation axis (a1) by an angle equal to the rotation angle of the pedal link (200).

[0099] The connecting link (500) extends from the pedal link (200) along a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation (a1) and extends in a direction approaching the linear bracket (400) to be joined to the linear bracket (400). The connecting link (500) can be formed along a reference plane (RS).

[0100] The connecting link (500) connects the pedal link (200) and the linear bracket (400) so that rotational motion around the axis of rotation (a1) of the pedal link (200) is converted into linear motion in a direction parallel to the third direction (Z) of the linear bracket (400).

[0101] The connecting link (500) may be formed in the shape of a long rod overall. The connecting link (500) may be formed in the shape of a relatively thin and long rod overall. When the first direction (X) is a direction parallel to the left-right direction, the connecting link (500) may be formed in the shape of a rod with a thin thickness in the left-right direction.

[0102] The connecting link (500) may extend from the link portion (220) of the pedal link (200). The connecting link (500) extends from the pedal link (200) toward the second direction (Y) and also extends from the pedal link (200) toward the opposite direction of the third direction (Z).

[0103] A fastening hole (510) is formed in the connecting link (500). The fastening hole (510) is a hole that penetrates the connecting link (500) in a first direction (X) and is formed in the shape of an elongated hole. The fastening hole (510) can be formed along the entire length of the connecting link (500).

[0104] By forming a fastening hole (510) in the connecting link (500), the connecting link (500) is divided into a lower link (520) that forms the lower part of the fastening hole (510) and an upper link (530) that forms the upper part of the fastening hole (510). The lower link (520) is the part further from the rotation axis (a1), and the upper link (530) is the part closer to the rotation axis (a1). The lower link (520) and the upper link (530) are connected to each other at both ends in the longitudinal direction.

[0105] The gap between the lower link (520) and the upper link (530) corresponds to the width of the fastening hole (510).

[0106] The gap between the lower link (520) and the upper link (530) can be made slightly larger than the thickness (diameter) of the fastening pin (430) of the linear bracket (400). For example, when the gap between the lower link (520) and the upper link (530) is 10 mm, the thickness (diameter) of the fastening pin (430) can be 9 to 9.5 mm.

[0107] The fastening hole (510) is formed in the shape of an elongated hole extending from a first point (511) to a second point (512). In the fastening hole (510), the first point (511) is a point relatively closer to the pedal link (200) (link part (220)), and the second point (512) is a point relatively farther from the pedal link (200) (link part (220)). Based on the second direction (Y), the first point (511) may be the rearmost part of the connecting link (500), and the second point (512) may be the frontmost part of the connecting link (500).

[0108] In an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening hole (510) is formed to move continuously away from the rotation axis (a1) as it moves from the first point (511) toward the second point (512). Based on a two-dimensional plane in which the second direction (Y) is the horizontal axis and the third direction (Z) is the vertical axis, the length (D2) from the rotation axis (a1) to the second point (512) is longer than the length (D1) from the rotation axis (a1) to the first point (511).

[0109] In an embodiment of the present invention, with respect to the rotation axis (a1), the length (D2) to the second point (512) may be 1.5 to 2.5 times the length (D1) to the first point (511). In an embodiment of the present invention, with respect to the rotation axis (a1), the length (D2) to the second point (512) may be approximately 2 times the length (D1) to the first point (511).

[0110] In an embodiment of the present invention, the length (D3, length of the fastening hole (510)) from the first point (511) to the second point (512) may be longer than the length (D1) from the rotation axis (a1) to the first point (511).

[0111] In an embodiment of the present invention, the length (D2) from the rotation axis (a1) to the second point (512) may be formed to have the same or similar length as the length of the pedal link (200) (the length from the rotation axis (a1) to the pedal (230)).

[0112] When no external force is applied to the pedal link (200), the angle formed by the line segment (L1) connecting the rotation axis (a1) and the fastening pin (430) and the line segment (L2) connecting the first point (511) and the second point (512) may be 25 to 45°.

[0113] In an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening hole (510) may be formed in a straight line. That is, the first point (511) and the second point (512) are connected in a straight line. In an embodiment of the present invention, the width of the fastening hole (510) from the first point (511) to the second point (512) is constant.

[0114] In an embodiment of the present invention, the lower link (520) and the upper link (530) are formed in a straight line along the longitudinal direction of the connecting link (500) and are connected to each other only at the ends.

[0115] Based on the first reference line (RL1) that passes through the axis of rotation (a1) and is parallel to the third direction (Z), the second point (512) is located in front of the second direction (Y).

[0116] Based on the first reference line (RL1), the first point (511) can be located behind the second direction (Y).

[0117] When no external force is applied to the pedal link (200), the line passing through the lowest part of the connecting link (500) (the end part opposite to the third direction (Z) in the connecting link (500) (lower link (520)) as a line parallel to the second direction (Y) is called the second reference line (RL2).

[0118] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first point (511) is located further forward (upward) in the third direction (Z) than the second point (512). In an embodiment of the present invention, the first point (511) is located at a point further away from the second reference line (RL2) in the third direction (Z) than the second point (512).

[0119] When no external force is applied to the pedal link (200), the second point (512) is located adjacent to the second reference line (RL2) and directly above the second reference line (RL2), and the first point (511) is located further away from the second reference line (RL2) than the second point (512).

[0120] When the second direction (Y) is the forward direction and the third direction (Z) is the upward direction, and no external force is applied to the pedal link (200), the second point (512) is located in front of and also below the first point (511). The second point (512) forms the frontmost and bottommost part of the connecting link (500).

[0121] When the second direction (Y) is the forward direction and the third direction (Z) is the upward direction, an external force is applied to the pedal link (200) so that the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate in the first rotational direction (R1), the second point (512) moves forward and upward.

[0122] As described above, when the second direction (Y) is the forward direction and the third direction (Z) is the upward direction, the lowest part of the connecting link (500) where the second point (512) is formed is located directly above the second reference line (RL2) when no external force is applied to the pedal link (200). When the pedal link (200) rotates, the second point (512) moves in the second direction (Y) and also moves from the second reference line (RL2) toward the third direction (Z). That is, when the pedal link (200) rotates, the second point (512) does not move further down from the second reference line (RL2) but moves further up; accordingly, the connecting link (500) does not encroach upon the space below the second reference line (RL2) (the space facing the opposite direction of the third direction (Z) from the second reference line (RL2)).

[0123] In this way, the connecting link (500) in the pedal simulator (1) does not encroach upon the space below the second reference line (RL2), and this space can be used for purposes other than the use of the pedal simulator (1), and a compact pedal simulator (1) can be formed.

[0124] In an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening pin (430) is positioned on a third reference line (RL3) that is spaced apart from the rotation axis (a1) in the second direction (Y) and parallel to the third direction (Z). The fastening pin (430) is configured to move along the third reference line (RL3).

[0125] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate in a first rotational direction (R1), the point where the fastening hole (510) (the line segment (L2) connecting the first point (511) and the second point (512)) and the third reference line (RL3) intersect gradually moves in a third direction (Z), and accordingly, the fastening hole (510) can rotate and push up the fastening pin (430).

[0126] In an embodiment of the present invention, as the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate, the fastening pin (430) moves (reciprocates) along the third reference line (RL3).

[0127] The pedal simulator (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention is constructed as described above, so that when the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate in the first rotational direction (R1), the fastening hole (510) rotates and the lower link (520) can push up the fastening pin (430), and accordingly, the linear bracket (400) can move in the third direction (Z).

[0128] The linear bracket (400) is connected to the main bracket (100) at a point spaced apart from the rotation axis (a1) in the second direction (Y). The linear bracket (400) may be connected directly to the main bracket (100), or may be connected to the main bracket (100) via other means.

[0129] The linear bracket (400) is configured to be able to reciprocate in parallel with the third direction (Z) relative to the main bracket (100).

[0130] In one embodiment, the linear bracket (400) can be directly coupled to the main bracket (100). At this time, the linear bracket (400) can be coupled to the intermediate bracket (120) and reciprocate in parallel with the third direction (Z).

[0131] In another embodiment, for the movement of a linear bracket (400) relative to a main bracket (100), the pedal simulator (1) may be formed to include a rail (600) and a slider (700).

[0132] The rail (600) is formed parallel to the third direction (Z) and is fixed to the main bracket (100). The rail (600) has a predetermined length along the third direction (Z) and has a constant cross section along the third direction (Z).

[0133] The rail (600) can be fixedly connected to the inner surface of the intermediate bracket (120). The inner surface of the intermediate bracket (120) may be the opposite side of the intermediate bracket (120) in the second direction (Y). The inner surface of the intermediate bracket (120) may be the side facing the pedal link (200) from the intermediate bracket (120).

[0134] In an embodiment of the present invention, two rails (600) may be provided and spaced apart from each other along a first direction (X). When a center slot (121) is formed in an intermediate bracket (120), the two rails (600) may be coupled to the intermediate bracket (120) without shielding the center slot (121). The two rails (600) may be symmetrical with respect to a reference plane (RS).

[0135] The rail (600) includes a sliding surface (610) and a rail surface (620).

[0136] The sliding surface (610) is a surface facing the opposite side of the second direction (Y) on the rail (600). The sliding surface (610) may be flat or curved. The sliding surface (610) has a cross section that is uniform along the third direction (Z).

[0137] The rail surface (620) is a surface facing the first direction (X) or the opposite side of the first direction (X) on both sides of the sliding surface (610). In one rail (600), two rail surfaces (620) are provided, and the two rail surfaces (620) face each other.

[0138] A concave rail groove (630) is formed in the rail surface (620), and the rail groove (630) is formed parallel to the third direction (Z). The rail groove (630) can be formed along the entire length direction (third direction (Z)) of the rail (600).

[0139] The rail groove (630) has a cross section that is uniform along the third direction (Z). In cross section, the rail groove (630) can be formed in a semicircular shape.

[0140] The slider (700) is fixed to the linear bracket (400) and fastened to the rail (600) to reciprocate along the longitudinal direction (third direction (Z)) of the rail (600). Accordingly, the linear bracket (400) can reciprocate relative to the main bracket (100).

[0141] One slider (700) is attached to one rail (600). In an embodiment of the present invention, two sliders (700) may be provided, each slider (700) is attached to each rail (600), and the two sliders (700) may be symmetrical to each other with respect to a reference plane (RS).

[0142] The slider (700) has a cross-sectional shape that is generally in the form of a ┗┛ and is coupled to the rail (600) so as to face the sliding surface (610) and two rail surfaces (620) of the rail (600).

[0143] The slider (700) is formed by including a sliding connection part (710) and a rail projection (720).

[0144] The rail protrusion (720) is inserted into the rail groove (630) and is formed to be in close contact, and the sliding connecting part (710) is formed to be in close contact with the sliding surface (610). In one slider (700), the rail protrusion (720) is provided in two, and the two rail protrusions (720) are formed in a shape that protrudes toward each other.

[0145] The rail protrusion (720) may be formed in a shape and size corresponding to the rail groove (630). The rail protrusion (720) may be formed in a semicircular shape in cross-section.

[0146] The slider (700) has a cross section that is uniform along the third direction (Z).

[0147] The slider (700) is fixed to the linear bracket (400). The slider (700) can be fixed to the linear bracket (400) in front of the second direction (Y).

[0148] The fixing of the slider (700) and the linear bracket (400) can be achieved by various fixing methods and means, for example, by bonding, interference fitting, or joining by fastening means such as bolts.

[0149] In an embodiment of the present invention, the main bracket (100) and the linear bracket (400) may be made of a material having excellent strength and durability, for example, a metallic material. When the linear bracket (400) is directly coupled to the main bracket (100) to move linearly, unintended friction may occur between the linear bracket (400) and the main bracket (100), and such friction may hinder the movement of the linear bracket (400) and hinder the movement of the linear bracket (400) by the connecting link (500).

[0150] In an embodiment of the present invention, a slider (700) fixed to a linear bracket (400) can be moved by being fastened to a rail (600), and the slider (700) may be made of a lubricating engineering plastic. In an embodiment of the present invention, the slider (700) may be made of polyacetal (POM).

[0151] As described above, in the operation of the pedal simulator (1), unnecessary friction can be prevented while maintaining rigidity, smooth movement of the linear bracket (400) relative to the main bracket (100) and rail (600) can be achieved, and the rotational movement of the connecting link (500) is effectively converted into the linear movement of the linear bracket (400).

[0152] The linear bracket (400) comprises a movable body (410), a link joint (420), a fastening pin (430), a first compression bar (440), and a second compression bar (450).

[0153] The movable body (410) forms the center of the linear bracket (400). The slider (700) described above can be fixedly coupled to the movable body (410).

[0154] The link coupling part (420) is formed in a shape that protrudes to one side from the movable body (410) and supports the fastening pin (430).

[0155] The link coupling part (420) may protrude from the movable body (410) in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z). The link coupling part (420) may be provided in two and spaced apart from each other.

[0156] The connecting link (500) connected to the connecting pin (430) moves between two link connecting parts (420).

[0157] In the linear bracket (400), the fastening pin (430) is formed along the first direction (X). The fastening pin (430) can be formed in the shape of a pin, a prism, a cylinder, etc., in which the first direction (X) is the longitudinal direction.

[0158] In an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening pin (430) may be formed in the shape of a cylinder in which the first direction (X) is the axial direction, and may also be formed to be rotatable with its central axis as the rotation axis (a1).

[0159] In one embodiment, the fastening pin (430) may be rotatably coupled to the link coupling portion (420). According to the embodiment, a bearing may be coupled between the fastening pin (430) and the link coupling portion (420), and accordingly, the fastening pin (430) may rotate smoothly relative to the link coupling portion (420).

[0160] In an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening pin (430) is inserted into the fastening hole (510), and accordingly, the connection link (500) and the linear bracket (400) are joined.

[0161] As described above, the width of the fastening hole (510) of the connecting link (500) (the gap between the lower link (520) and the upper link (530)) may be slightly larger than the thickness (diameter) of the fastening pin (430), and the fastening hole (510) may move along the longitudinal direction of the fastening hole (510) while in contact with the inner surface of the lower link (520) and / or the inner surface of the upper link (530).

[0162] When the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate in the first rotational direction (R1), the lower link (520) presses the fastening pin (430), and the linear bracket (400) to which the fastening pin (430) is attached moves linearly in the third direction (Z). At this time, the fastening pin (430) is made rotatable so that it can roll along the inner surface of the lower link (520) inside the fastening hole (510), thereby preventing or minimizing friction between the connecting link (500) and the fastening pin (430).

[0163] When the linear bracket (400) is moved in the third direction (Z), and the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate in the opposite direction of the first rotation direction (R1), the linear bracket (400) to which the connecting pin (430) is attached moves linearly in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z). Even at this time, the connecting pin (430) is made rotatable so that it can roll along the inner surface of the lower link (520) or the upper link (530) inside the connecting hole (510), thereby preventing or minimizing friction between the connecting link (500) and the connecting pin (430).

[0164] In an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening pin (430) may be made of a lubricating engineering plastic with a circular cross-section. At least a portion of the fastening pin (430) in contact with the connecting pin may be made of polyacetal (POM).

[0165] As described above, the pressure of the fastening pin (430) by the connecting link (500) is effectively applied, and friction that may occur between the fastening pin (430) and the connecting link (500) can be prevented or minimized.

[0166] The first compression bar (440) and the second compression bar (450) protrude in the third direction (Z) from the linear bracket (400). The first compression bar and the second compression bar (450) are formed to protrude in the third direction (Z) from the movable body (410).

[0167] The first compression bar (440) and the second compression bar (450) can be formed integrally with the movable body (410), or can be formed separately and then fixedly joined.

[0168] The first compression bar (440) and the second compression bar (450) can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X).

[0169] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first compression bar (440) and / or the second compression bar (450) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0170] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first compression bar (440) may be provided as one and the second compression bar (450) may be provided as two.

[0171] In an embodiment of the present invention, the linear bracket (400) may be formed with a symmetrical structure centered on a reference plane (RS).

[0172] The elastic module (300) is coupled to the main bracket (100) at a point spaced apart from the rotation axis (a1) in the second direction (Y). The elastic module (300) can be coupled to the intermediate bracket (120).

[0173] The elastic module (300) comprises a first module spring (320) and a second module spring (330).

[0174] The first module spring (320) and the second module spring (330) may be made of a coil spring, a leaf spring, a torsion spring, etc. The first module spring (320) and the second module spring (330) may be made of a linear spring.

[0175] The first module spring (320) and the first compression bar (440) are aligned with each other in the third direction (Z). The first module spring (320) elastically supports the first compression bar (440) in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z).

[0176] The second module spring (330) and the second compression bar (450) are aligned with each other in the third direction (Z). The second module spring (330) elastically supports the second compression bar (450) in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z).

[0177] The first module spring (320) and the second module spring (330) can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X).

[0178] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first module spring (320) and / or the second module spring (330) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0179] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first module spring (320) may be provided as one and the second module spring (330) may be provided as two.

[0180] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic module (300) may be formed with a symmetrical structure centered on a reference plane (RS).

[0181] The elastic module (300) may comprise a module body (310), a first cylinder (311), a second cylinder (312), a first cap (313), a second cap (314), a first spacer (315), and a second spacer (316).

[0182] The module body (310) forms the body of the elastic module (300). The module body (310) can be detachably coupled to and fixed to the main bracket (100). The module body (310) can be detachably coupled to and fixed to the rail (600).

[0183] The first cylinder (311) is formed in a cylindrical shape and is formed along the third direction (Z). The first cylinder (311) can be coupled to the module body (310) in a manner that penetrates the module body (310). The first cylinder (311) protrudes from the module body (310) in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z). The first cylinder (311) has a hollow space so that the first module spring (320) can be accommodated therein.

[0184] A first entrance (311a) is formed in the first cylinder (311). The first entrance (311a) is formed in the form of a hole penetrating from the end opposite to the third direction (Z) of the first cylinder (311). The size (diameter) of the first entrance (311a) is made smaller than the size (diameter) of the internal space of the first cylinder (311). The size (diameter) of the first entrance (311a) is made to correspond to the size (diameter) of the first compression bar (440) so that the first compression bar (440) can be inserted.

[0185] The first spacer (315) is received inside the first cylinder (311) and supports one end of the first module spring (320). The first spacer (315) shields the first entrance (311a) and moves in the third direction (Z) inside the first cylinder (311) when the first compression bar (440) moves in the third direction (Z) and is pressurized.

[0186] The first cap (313) supports one end of the first module spring (320).

[0187] The first cap (313) is attached to the first cylinder (311) on the opposite side of the first spacer (315). The first cap (313) can be screw-coupled to the first cylinder (311).

[0188] The second cylinder (312) is formed in a cylindrical shape and is formed along the third direction (Z). The second cylinder (312) can be coupled to the module by in a manner that penetrates the module body (310). The second cylinder (312) protrudes from the module body (310) in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z). The second cylinder (312) has a hollow space so that the second module spring (330) can be accommodated therein.

[0189] A second entrance (312a) is formed in the second cylinder (312). The second entrance (312a) is formed in the form of a hole penetrating from the end opposite to the third direction (Z) in the second cylinder (312). The size (diameter) of the second entrance (312a) is made smaller than the size (diameter) of the internal space of the second cylinder (312). The size (diameter) of the second entrance (312a) is made to correspond to the size (diameter) of the second compression bar (450) so that the second compression bar (450) can be inserted.

[0190] The second spacer (316) is received inside the second cylinder (312) and supports one end of the second module spring (330). The second spacer (316) shields the second entrance (312a) and moves in the third direction (Z) inside the second cylinder (312) when the second compression bar (450) moves in the third direction (Z) and is pressurized.

[0191] The second cap (314) supports one end of the second module spring (330).

[0192] The second cap (314) is attached to the second cylinder (312) on the opposite side of the second spacer (316). The second cap (314) can be screw-coupled to the second cylinder (312).

[0193] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the third direction (Z) is the longitudinal direction, the first cylinder (311) may be longer than the second cylinder (312), and the first elastic module (300) may be longer than the second elastic module (300).

[0194] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first cylinder (311) may be formed to protrude further in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z) than the second cylinder (312).

[0195] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic module (300) and the linear bracket (400) are positioned on a third reference line (RL3) that is spaced apart from the rotation axis (a1) in the second direction (Y) and parallel to the third direction (Z).

[0196] The first compression bar (440) and the first module spring (320) of the linear bracket (400) are positioned on the same third reference line (RL3).

[0197] Additionally, the second compression bar (450) and the second module spring (330) of the linear bracket (400) are positioned on the same third reference line (RL3).

[0198] A pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured such that when a linear bracket (400) moves in a third direction (Z), a first compression bar (440) presses a first module spring (320), and a second compression bar (450) presses a second module spring (330).

[0199] In the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the contact point (or contact point) between the first compression bar (440) and the first module spring (320) and the contact point (or contact point) between the second compression bar (450) and the second module spring (330) are formed differently from each other.

[0200] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the point when the pedal link (200) rotates to a first angle (θ1) with respect to a first rotation direction (R1), the first module spring (320) elastically supports the first compression bar (440), and from the point when the pedal link (200) rotates to a second angle (θ1) with respect to a first rotation direction (R1), the second module spring (330) elastically supports the second compression bar (450).

[0201] With no external force acting on the pedal link (200), the angle between the line segment (L02) connecting the rotation axis (a1) and the first point (511) can be the first angle (θ1) when the pedal link (200) is rotated so that the first module spring (320) elastically supports the first compression bar (440) based on the line segment (L01) connecting the rotation axis (a1) and the first point (511).

[0202] With no external force acting on the pedal link (200), the angle between the line segment (L03) connecting the rotation axis (a1) and the first point (511) can be the second angle (θ2) when the pedal link (200) is rotated so that the second module spring (330) elastically supports the second compression bar (450) based on the line segment (L01) connecting the rotation axis (a1) and the first point (511).

[0203] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first module spring (320) may be positioned at a point protruding further in the opposite direction of the third direction (Z) compared to the second module spring (330), and accordingly, when the linear bracket (400) moves in the third direction (Z), the point of contact between the first compression bar (440) and the first module spring (320) may occur earlier than the point of contact between the second compression bar (450) and the second module spring (330).

[0204] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic module (300) is configured to elastically support the connecting link (500) in the opposite direction of the first rotational direction (R1) when the connecting link (500) rotates in the first rotational direction (R1). When the driver presses the pedal link (200) and the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate in the first rotational direction (R1), the linear bracket (400) moves in the third direction (Z) and the elastic module (300) applies a reaction force to the linear bracket (400), and at this time, the reaction force is transmitted to the connecting link (500) and the pedal link (200), so that the driver feels a reaction force torque through the pedal link (200).

[0205] In an embodiment of the present invention, from the point in time when the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) are rotated by a first angle (θ1) with respect to the first rotational direction (R1), the elastic module (300) elastically supports the connecting link (500) and the linear bracket (400) in a direction that prevents the rotation of the connecting link (500). From an initial state in which no external force is applied to the pedal link (200), at the point in time when the pedal link (200) is rotated by a first angle (θ1) in the first rotational direction (R1), the linear bracket (400) moves in a third direction (Z), and the first module spring (320) of the elastic module (300) applies a reaction force to the linear bracket (400) and the connecting link (500) through the first compression bar (440).

[0206] Additionally, from the point when the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate by a second angle (θ2) relative to the first rotation direction (R1), the elastic module (300) elastically supports the connecting link (500) and the linear bracket (400) in a direction that prevents the rotation of the connecting link (500). From the initial state where no external force is applied to the pedal link (200), at the point when the pedal link (200) rotates by a second angle (θ2) in the first rotation direction (R1), the linear bracket (400) moves in a third direction (Z), and the second module spring (330) of the elastic module (300) applies a reaction force to the linear bracket (400) and the connecting link (500) through the second compression bar (450).

[0207] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the pedal link (200) and the connecting link (500) rotate, the connecting link (500) does not move beyond the main bracket (100) (intermediate bracket (120)) with respect to the second direction (Y), and the space required for the operation of the pedal simulator (1) can be reduced.

[0208] Unlike the embodiment of the present invention, when the volume occupied by the part coupled thereto and the displacement of the part are large during the rotation of the pedal link (200), the possibility of interference with other parts of the vehicle may increase, or malfunction may occur due to unintended contact, etc.

[0209] The pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is constructed as described above, thereby allowing for the replacement of the first module spring (320) and / or the second module spring (330). In an embodiment of the present invention, one of the first module springs (320) having different spring constants may be used, and one of the second module springs (330) having different spring constants may be used.

[0210] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spring constant of the first module spring (320) and the spring constant of the second module spring (330) may be different from each other.

[0211] In the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first contact point (P1), which is the contact point between the first compression bar (440) and the first spacer (315), and the second contact point (P2), which is the contact point between the second compression bar (450) and the second spacer (316), can each be adjusted.

[0212] The first compression bar (440) and the second compression bar (450) can each be detachably coupled to the movable body (410), and the first compression bar (440) having different lengths can be coupled to the movable body (410), and the second compression bar (450) having different lengths can also be coupled to the movable body (410).

[0213] In the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on a two-dimensional plane in which the second direction (Y) is the horizontal axis and the third direction (Z) is the vertical axis, the first contact point (P1), which is the contact point between the first compression bar (440) and the first spacer (315), and the second contact point (P2), which is the contact point between the second compression bar (450) and the second spacer (316), may be formed differently from each other.

[0214] Accordingly, a pedal simulator (1) that is easy to design can be provided, which can easily adjust the inflection point, which is the point where the slope of the reaction torque relative to the angular displacement changes.

[0215] The graph shown in FIG. 9 can be understood as a graph representing the relationship between the angular displacement of the pedal link (200) and the applied torque when the pedal link (200) rotates in the first rotational direction (R1) in the pedal simulator (1) shown in FIG. 4a.

[0216] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the angular displacement (①) of the pedal link (200) and the linear displacement (②) of the linear bracket (400) over time when operating the pedal simulator (1) shown in FIG. 4a.

[0217] As illustrated in FIG. 9, in the pedal simulator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, each component may be arranged to have a total of three sections of stiffness change for each specific angle.

[0218] The first angle section (the section from 0 degrees to 'θ1' degrees) is the section where the pedal spring (250) acts. When an external force is applied to the pedal (230) and the pedal link (200) rotates in the first rotational direction (R1), the angular displacement increases, and at this time, the torque increases due to the pedal spring (250).

[0219] The pedal spring (250) is also used to restore the pedal link (200) to its initial angle when an external force is removed or reduced on the pedal link (200), for example, when the driver takes their foot off the pedal (230) (release phase).

[0220] Next, in the second angle section (the section from 'θ1' to 'θ2'), the first module spring (320) (e.g., a linear spring) together with the pedal spring (250) has an additional effect on the pedal torque.

[0221] Finally, in the third angle section (a section greater than 'θ2' degrees), the pedal spring (250), the first module spring (320), and the second module spring (330) (e.g., a linear spring) affect the pedal torque.

[0222] As a result, the reaction torque for each displacement section as shown in Fig. 9 is obtained, an inflection point is formed between the first angle section and the second angle section, and an inflection point is formed between the second angle section and the third angle section.

[0223] As illustrated in FIG. 10, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the increase and decrease in each displacement of the pedal link (200) and the increase and decrease in the linear displacement of the linear bracket (400) are generally proportional, and the linear displacement of the linear bracket (400) is made in correspondence with each displacement of the pedal link (200), so that the driver can clearly feel that the pedal (230) is being operated, and furthermore, sufficient elastic deformation of each spring (pedal (230) spring, first module spring (320) and second module spring (330)) is made, thereby providing a pedal simulator (1) with excellent pedal force simulation rate.

[0224] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the connecting link (500) is formed with a relatively simple structure, making it easy to design and manufacture, and the linear movement of the linear bracket (400) by the rotation of the connecting link (500) is smooth, thereby providing a compact pedal simulator (1) with excellent pedal force simulation.

[0225] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and variations can be made to other specific embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should not be determined by the described embodiments but by the technical concept described in the claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0226] 1 : Pedal Simulator 100 : Main Bracket 110 : Upper bracket 120 : Middle bracket 121 : Center slot 130 : Lower bracket 200 : Pedal Link 210 : Rotating part 220 : Link section 230 : Pedal 240 : Rotating shaft 250 : Pedal spring 300 : Elastic module 310 : Module body 311: 1st cylinder 312: 2nd cylinder 313: 1st Cap 314: 2nd Cap 315: 1st Spacer 316: 2nd Spacer 320 : 1st module spring 330 : 2nd module spring 400 : Linear bracket 410 : Movable body 420 : Link joint 430 : Fastening pin 440 : 1st compression bar 450 : 2nd compression bar 500 : Connecting link 510 : Fastening hole 511: Branch 1 512: Branch 2 520 : Lower link 530 : Upper link 600 : Rail 610 : Sliding surface 620 : Rail surface 630 : Rail groove 700 : Slider 710 : Sliding connection part 720 : Rail projection P1 : First contact point P2 : Second contact point a1 : Rotation axis X: 1st direction Y: 2nd direction Z: Third direction

Claims

Claim 1 A main bracket; a pedal link rotatably coupled to the main bracket around a rotation axis parallel to a first direction and equipped with a pedal at an end; a pedal spring that elastically supports the pedal link while undergoing elastic deformation when the pedal link rotates in a first rotation direction; an elastic module coupled to the main bracket at a point spaced apart from the rotation axis in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and comprising a first module spring and a second module spring; and a linear bracket configured to reciprocate along the third direction behind the elastic module with respect to the first direction and the third direction orthogonal to the second direction, and comprising a fastening pin in the first direction, a first compression bar protruding in the third direction, and a second compression bar.and a connecting link is integrally extended from the pedal link and is formed to be rotatable together with the pedal link around the rotation axis, and includes a connecting link having a fastening hole that forms a path in which the fastening pin is inserted and moves, as an elongated hole from a first point to a second point located in front of the first point in the second direction, wherein the connecting link includes a lower link forming the lower part of the fastening hole and a part further from the rotation axis, and an upper link forming the upper part of the fastening hole and a part closer to the rotation axis, wherein the lower link and the upper link are connected to each other at both ends in the longitudinal direction, and the fastening hole is formed in a straight line, and the fastening hole moves continuously away from the rotation axis as it moves from the first point to the second point, and with respect to a first reference line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the third direction, the second point is located in front of the second direction and the first point is located behind the second direction, and when the pedal link and the connecting link rotate in the first rotation direction, the lower link presses the fastening pin, and the A pedal simulator in which the linear bracket coupled with the fastening pin moves linearly in the third direction, the first module spring elastically supports the first compression bar from the point when the pedal link rotates to a first angle relative to the first rotation direction, and the second module spring elastically supports the second compression bar from the point when the pedal link rotates to a second angle relative to the first rotation direction. Claim 2 A pedal simulator according to claim 1, wherein, based on the rotation axis, the length to the second point is 1.5 to 2.5 times the length to the first point. Claim 3 A pedal simulator according to claim 1, wherein, when no external force is applied to the pedal link, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the rotation axis and the fastening pin and the line segment connecting the first point and the second point is 25 to 45°. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 In claim 1, the main bracket comprises an upper bracket on which the rotation axis is formed; and an intermediate bracket extending from the upper bracket toward the opposite side of the third direction in the front of the second direction, and the pedal simulator comprises a pair of rails coupled to the inner side of the intermediate bracket facing the pedal link, extending along the third direction and spaced apart from the first direction, and the linear bracket is coupled to the rails so as to be reciprocally movable. Claim 6 A pedal simulator according to claim 5, wherein the intermediate bracket has a hollow center slot formed in the center along the third direction so that the connecting link can enter, and the rail is coupled to the intermediate bracket so that the center slot is exposed. Claim 7 In claim 5, each of the pair of rails comprises a sliding surface forming a rear surface in the second direction; and a rail surface formed along the third direction, wherein the sliding surface is a surface bent in the second direction at each end of the sliding surface, and the pedal simulator comprises a pair of sliders that are integrally formed with a rail projection inserted into and in contact with the rail groove and a sliding connecting part in contact with the sliding surface, are fastened to the rail, and fixed to the linear bracket. Claim 8 In claim 7, the above slider is made of lubricating engineering plastic, a pedal simulator. Claim 9 In claim 1, the above-mentioned fastening pin is made of a lubricating engineering plastic and has a circular cross-section, in a pedal simulator. Claim 10 In any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 9, the pedal simulator is symmetrical with respect to a reference plane that is orthogonal to the first direction and crosses the center of the main bracket.

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