Emergency Forced Idle Device for Pedal Misapplication
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Solution Overview
Problem
The close spacing of brake and accelerator pedals in vehicles often leads to unintended simultaneous application, causing accidents due to driver error, as there is no existing automotive component to prevent this issue.
Innovation Solution
The Emergency Forced Idle Device (EFID) is designed to detect simultaneous brake and accelerator pedal application, blocking most air induction to force the engine into idle and allowing brakes to function without engine acceleration, using a vacuum chamber and throttle position switch to manage air flow and fuel delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If brake and accelerator pedals are spaced close together to save space, then vehicle interior space efficiency is improved, but driver error causing simultaneous pedal application increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor system as an intermediary between the driver's pedal application and the engine's response. The sensor detects simultaneous pedal application and triggers an intermediary control mechanism that overrides the accelerator signal, preventing unintended acceleration while maintaining normal pedal spacing and vehicle interior space efficiency.
2Reliability
If traditional safety devices are installed to protect after impact, then post-accident protection is improved, but prevention of accidental acceleration is not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by detecting and preventing accidental acceleration before it can cause harm. The sensor system monitors pedal application in real-time and intervenes by retarding ignition timing and reducing fuel delivery when simultaneous pedal application is detected, preventing the harmful effect of unintended acceleration before it occurs.
3Speed
If accelerator response is made sensitive for quick acceleration, then vehicle responsiveness is improved, but susceptibility to unintended acceleration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback by continuously monitoring pedal positions and using this information to modulate engine response. The sensor system provides feedback about simultaneous pedal application to the control system, which then adjusts ignition timing and fuel delivery accordingly, maintaining sensitive accelerator response for legitimate use while preventing unintended acceleration through real-time feedback control.
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
Prevents accidents by ensuring the engine does not accelerate when both pedals are inadvertently applied, allowing normal braking functionality while maintaining engine idle, thereby enhancing vehicle safety.
Implementation Method 1
using a vacuum chamber and throttle position switch to manage air flow and fuel delivery
Data Source
AI summary
The Emergency Forced Idle Device aka “EFID” is a device configured to make an automotive engine idle and the brakes to work normally completely ignoring the accelerator's request for more power, although the driver is inadvertently applying both the brake and the accelerator pedals at the same time.