Electronic Clutch Pedal Assembly with Variable Resistance Biasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic clutch pedal assemblies lack the 'pedal feel' resistance typically experienced with mechanical linkages, as the removal of mechanical linkage eliminates the resistance drivers are accustomed to during clutch operation.
Innovation Solution
An electronic clutch pedal assembly with a biasing device featuring a compressible member between pivotally attached end caps, providing variable resistance by rotating and compressing as the pedal is depressed, simulating the feel of a mechanically linked clutch pedal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If mechanical linkage is removed to enable electronic clutch control, then fuel economy improves through free rolling drive train, but pedal feel resistance is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A biasing device with a compressible member (spring) is introduced as an intermediary between the pedal arm and the electronic clutch control system. This mediator provides the missing resistance feedback to the driver's foot while allowing the electronic motor to control the actual clutch engagement, thus preserving both fuel economy and pedal feel
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical linkage connecting the pedal directly to the clutch assembly is replaced with an electronic control system using a motor and position sensor. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical power transmission through the clutch, enabling free rolling and improved fuel economy while the biasing device compensates for lost mechanical feedback
2Extent of automation
If electronic control system is implemented, then drive train free rolling is achieved, but realistic pedal feel is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing device acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between the electronic control system and the driver's tactile expectations. It provides mechanical resistance feedback that mimics traditional clutch behavior, allowing the driver to operate the pedal intuitively while the electronic system handles the actual clutch control
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing device is designed to vary the resistance parameter along the pedal path. The resistance increases as the pedal is depressed and decreases after the disengagement point, dynamically changing the mechanical parameter to match the expected clutch engagement curve and provide realistic pedal feel
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 solution provides a realistic 'pedal feel' by increasing resistance until disengagement and then decreasing it, mimicking the resistance curve of a conventional clutch pedal with mechanical linkage, enhancing driver experience.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing device includes a compressible member disposed between the first end cap and the second end cap. The compressible member biases the pedal arm towards the undepressed position.
Implementation Method 2
Upon depression of the pedal arm from the undepressed position towards the depressed position, the compressible member is compressed as the biasing device rotates so as to vary the resistance of the compressible member along the pedal path.
Data Source
AI summary
The electronic clutch pedal assembly includes a housing bracket for mounting the pedal assembly to the vehicle, a pedal arm, and a biasing device. The pedal arm includes an upper end and a pedal pad at a lower end. The upper end of the pedal arm is pivotally supported within the housing bracket for movement along a pedal path between an undepressed position and a depressed position. The biasing device includes a first end cap pivotally attached to the housing bracket and a second end cap pivotally attached to the pedal arm. The biasing device includes a compressible member disposed between the first end cap and the second end cap. The compressible member biases the pedal arm towards the undepressed position. Upon depression of the pedal arm towards the depressed position, the compressible member compresses as the biasing device rotates to provide a variable pedal resistance over the pedal path.