Accelerator Pedal Reaction Force Control via Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accelerator pedal systems lack detailed control over reaction forces when vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined limit, relying on elastic members that provide non-discriminatory increments, failing to effectively warn drivers of excessive speed.
Innovation Solution
An accelerator pedal system with a pedal control unit that receives vehicle speed and switch signals, outputting control signals to a reaction device comprising an actuator, power delivery unit, and wheel to adjust the reaction force in three modes: constant, vibration, and knocking, allowing for detailed control and driver notification of excessive speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a plurality of elastic members are used to control reaction force in quantized increments, then the reaction force can be controlled when vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined speed, but the control is not detailed enough to effectively warn drivers of excessive speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical elastic member system with an actuator (electromagnetic or electric motor) that can precisely control reaction force through electrical signals. This substitution enables continuous and detailed adjustment of reaction force magnitude, eliminating the quantized limitation of elastic members while providing fine-grained control for effective driver warnings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from discrete elastic member selection to continuous actuator control. The actuator can adjust reaction force magnitude continuously based on vehicle speed deviation, allowing for nuanced warning intensities that match the degree of speed excess, thereby achieving detailed control without increasing mechanical complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If elastic members are used to generate reaction force, then the system structure is simple, but the reaction force cannot be adjusted in detail to provide varied warning modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control capabilities through the actuator, which can adjust reaction force in real-time based on vehicle speed and selected warning mode. This enables three distinct warning modes (constant force, vibration, knocking) that adapt to different driving conditions, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through vibration mode, where the actuator generates oscillating reaction forces to alert drivers of excessive speed. This periodic motion provides a distinct sensory warning that differs from constant force, demonstrating how dynamic control enables multiple warning modes from a single actuator mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If constant reaction force is applied to the accelerator pedal, then the warning is simple, but varied warning modes cannot be provided to enhance driver awareness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical vibration through the actuator to create a vibration warning mode that generates oscillating reaction forces on the accelerator pedal. This vibration provides a distinct tactile alert that enhances driver awareness compared to constant force alone, improving notification effectiveness while maintaining ease of operation through automated actuator control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different reaction force characteristics (constant, vibration, knocking) to the same accelerator pedal based on selected warning modes. This local quality differentiation allows the system to provide varied warning intensities and types tailored to specific driving conditions, enhancing driver awareness without complicating the overall operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and varied warnings to drivers of excessive vehicle speed through adjustable reaction forces, enhancing safety by providing distinct feedback mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator, such as a motor, for generating power on the basis of the control signal
Implementation Method 2
The system also includes a damper for damping the wheel
Implementation Method 3
A typical accelerator pedal system applies a reaction force to an accelerator pedal by elastic force of an elastic member
Data Source
AI summary
An accelerator pedal system includes a pedal control unit that receives a vehicle speed signal and a signal from a switch, and compares the two signals. If the vehicle speed exceeds a preselected speed, the pedal control unit outputs a control signal to control a reaction force of an accelerator pedal on the basis of the preselected speed and a selected mode. The system also includes a reaction device that receives the control signal and controls the accelerator pedal according to the selected mode. The reaction device includes an actuator for generating power on the basis of the control signal, a power delivery unit for selectively transmitting the power generated by the actuator, and a wheel for receiving the power from the power delivery unit and transmitting the power to the accelerator pedal.