Accelerator Reaction Force Control with Variable Increase Rates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accelerator pedal reaction force control systems cause undesirable behavior in drivers due to sudden increases and decreases in reaction force when transitioning between different engine operating regions, leading to degraded vehicle operability and an involuntary driver response.
Innovation Solution
An accelerator reaction force control apparatus comprising an accelerator position detecting device, a reaction force varying device, and a threshold value setting device, which increases the reaction force beyond a base force when the accelerator position exceeds a threshold value, with varying increase rates to prevent sudden changes and notify the driver of fuel efficiency changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the reaction force is suddenly increased when entering the boundary operating region from the second operating region, then the fuel consumption rate is reduced, but the driver experiences undesirable behavior and degraded vehicle operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reaction force control system adaptive and variable rather than static. The control unit dynamically adjusts the reaction force based on real-time operating conditions, transitioning from a fixed threshold approach to a dynamic control strategy that considers multiple parameters including accelerator position, engine load, and rotational speed. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize fuel consumption while maintaining smooth driver experience across different operating regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying multiple control parameters simultaneously rather than relying on a single threshold. The system changes the reaction force magnitude, the threshold accelerator position, and the control strategy based on engine operating conditions. By varying these parameters dynamically, the system achieves fuel efficiency improvements without causing sudden jarring changes that would degrade operability.
2Loss of energy
If the reaction force is increased and decreased using accelerator position as a trigger, then fuel consumption is reduced, but the accelerator pedal is pushed back against the driver's intent causing involuntary response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring accelerator position, engine operating state, and reaction force magnitude, then using this information to adjust the control strategy in real-time. The control unit incorporates feedback loops that detect when the accelerator pedal is being depressed and adjust the reaction force accordingly, preventing the pedal from being pushed back against driver intent. This feedback mechanism ensures that fuel-saving measures do not compromise driver control accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by anticipating the driver's intent to continue depressing the accelerator pedal and pre-adjusting the reaction force to prevent unwanted pedal movement. Rather than reacting after the pedal is pushed back, the system proactively modifies the reaction force profile before the problematic occurrence, maintaining both fuel efficiency and driver intent accuracy.
3Loss of energy
If the reaction force is suddenly increased at the boundary operating region, then the fuel efficiency is improved, but the driver's foot is pushed back and the operating region repeatedly crosses the boundary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a dynamic threshold and reaction force profile that adapts to the current operating region and transition state. Rather than using a fixed boundary trigger, the system dynamically adjusts control parameters based on the direction of transition (entering or exiting the boundary region) and the rate of change of operating conditions. This dynamic approach stabilizes the operating region by preventing repeated crossings while maintaining fuel efficiency benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by preparing the reaction force profile in advance of the boundary transition. The control unit anticipates the upcoming boundary crossing and gradually adjusts the reaction force to cushion the transition, preventing sudden changes that would push the driver's foot back. This prior cushioning effect smooths the transition between operating regions and prevents oscillatory behavior.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
An accelerator reaction force control apparatus is provided with an accelerator position detecting device (6), a reaction force varying device (101) and a threshold value setting device (10). The reaction force varying device (101) varies a reaction force of the accelerator so as to increase a reaction force of the accelerator (2) by a prescribed increase amount with respect to a base reaction force when the accelerator position is equal to or larger than an accelerator position threshold value. The reaction force varying device (101) also varies a reaction force increase rate at a first increase rate during a first reaction force increase period of the increase of the reaction force, and at a second increase rate during a second reaction force increase period of the increase of the reaction force. The second increase rate is larger during the second reaction force increase period than during the first reaction force increase period.