Clutch Pedal Load Simulator for Non-Synchronized Transmissions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clutch brake systems for non-synchronized transmissions lack the ability to simulate the 'clutch brake squeeze' feedback, which is essential for drivers to feel the engagement of the clutch brake, and require a simple switch or valve for external activation to control the clutch brake effectively.
Innovation Solution
A clutch pedal control system with an activation load simulator that applies a first load during the initial phase of pedal movement and increases the load in a second phase, using mechanical or hydraulic mechanisms such as springs or valves to resist pedal depression and simulate the clutch brake squeeze, allowing for external activation of the clutch brake.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple switch or valve is used for external activation of the clutch brake, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the driver feedback (clutch brake squeeze feel) is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an activation load simulator as an intermediary device between the simple switch activation system and the driver's pedal feel. This simulator includes a load application mechanism that applies increasing load to the pedal during the second phase of pedal movement, mediating between the simple electrical switch activation and the need for realistic clutch brake squeeze feedback, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplicity and driver feedback quality
2Ease of operation
If an activation load simulator is engaged during the second phase of pedal movement, then the driver feedback is improved by simulating clutch brake squeeze, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The activation load simulator employs dynamic load application that activates only during the second phase of pedal movement. The load application mechanism transitions from disengaged to engaged state based on pedal position, creating a dynamic system that provides clutch brake squeeze feedback only when needed (during clutch engagement), rather than continuously. This dynamic approach improves driver feedback while limiting complexity to only the necessary operational phases
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses preliminary detection of pedal position to determine when to engage the load simulator. A pedal position sensor or switch detects when the pedal reaches the transition point between first and second phases, preliminarily triggering the load application mechanism before the driver would naturally expect to feel the clutch brake engagement. This preliminary action ensures timely feedback while keeping the activation mechanism simple and event-driven
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
The system provides the necessary feedback to the driver by increasing the pedal load at the end of the stroke, ensuring proper engagement of the clutch brake without gear clash, and can be triggered by a simple switch or valve, enhancing the control of the clutch brake engagement.
Implementation Method 1
An activation load simulator is disengaged in a first phase of pedal movement and is engaged in a second phase of pedal movement that begins when the clutch pedal is depressed to a predetermined extent near the end of the clutch pedal travel. The activation load simulator in the second phase of movement resists depression of the clutch pedal and increases the load required to further depress the clutch pedal.
Data Source
AI summary
An external activation clutch brake that is controlled by a switch is actuated when a clutch pedal is depressed. A compression spring, torsion spring or hydraulic valve may be used to simulate engagement of a standard clutch brake in which clutch brake squeeze is sensed by the driver. The clutch pedal has first and second phases of movement with the load required to compress the clutch pedal in a first phase being less than the load required to further compress the clutch pedal in a second phase.