Linear Pedal Assembly Layout for Compact Drive-by-Wire Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pedal assemblies, especially those in drive-by-wire systems, are not structurally simple and compact, leading to complexity and space inefficiencies in vehicle design.
Innovation Solution
A pedal assembly with a mounting bracket, guide part, and actuation rod that allows for a purely linear movement or no movement relative to the vehicle structure, integrated with a sensor assembly for control input, and a support element with a predetermined breaking zone for enhanced safety and compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional pedal assemblies are used in drive-by-wire systems, then the pedal assembly can provide the required functionality, but the structure becomes complex and occupies excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The pedal assembly is divided into distinct functional modules: the pedal body (310), actuation rod (320), guide part (330), and mounting bracket (340). Each component has a specific function and can be independently designed, manufactured, and assembled. This segmentation reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining functional reliability through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkages with a simplified linear actuation system. The actuation rod (320) moves in a purely linear manner within the guide part (330), eliminating the need for traditional mechanical arms, pivots, and linkages. This substitution of mechanical systems with a streamlined linear motion system directly reduces structural complexity while preserving the drive-by-wire functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If traditional pedal assemblies with multiple levers and pivot points are used, then the required actuation functionality is achieved, but the pedal assembly occupies excessive space in the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a traditional approach where the pedal arm rotates around a pivot point to achieve actuation, this patent inverts the approach by using a linearly moving actuation rod (320) guided by the guide part (330). The actuation is achieved through linear displacement rather than rotational motion, fundamentally inverting the traditional mechanical approach. This inversion significantly reduces the space required while maintaining full actuation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional rotational movement (traditional pedal arms rotating in a plane) to a one-dimensional linear movement (actuation rod moving along a straight path within the guide part). By constraining the motion to a single linear dimension rather than allowing rotation in two dimensions, the overall volume occupied by the pedal assembly is dramatically reduced while preserving the necessary actuation capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the actuation rod is allowed to move in multiple directions, then the pedal assembly can accommodate various operating conditions, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The guide part (330) serves multiple functions simultaneously: it guides the actuation rod (320) along its linear path, provides structural support, defines the travel limits of the actuation rod, and integrates with the mounting bracket (340) for secure installation. This multi-functionality of a single component achieves the required adaptability without increasing structural complexity, as one element performs what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to a pedal assembly (18) for a vehicle. The pedal assembly (18) comprises a mounting bracket (28) having a mounting interface (30) for mechanically attaching the pedal assembly (18) to a structural part of the vehicle. Moreover, the pedal assembly (18) comprises a guide part (40) being fixedly connected to the mounting bracket (28) and comprising a channel (44) extending linearly along a channel axis (A). The pedal assembly (18) also comprises an actuation rod (66) extending along a rod axis (R) and having a first end (68) comprising or being coupled to a pushing surface (74). At least a portion of the actuation rod (66) is located inside the channel (44). The rod axis (R) and the channel axis (A) are parallel and the pushing surface (74) is configured to be contacted by a human foot for operating the pedal assembly (18). Furthermore, the pedal assembly (18) comprises a sensor assembly (94) being configured to detect an actuation of the actuation rod (66) along the rod axis (R). Additionally, a drive-by-wire system for a vehicle comprising such a pedal assembly (18) and a vehicle are described.