Modular Vehicle Pedal Actuator Kit for Rapid Durability Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional autonomous control devices for vehicle acceleration and braking pedals are time-consuming to install and remove, often require modifications that invalidate durability test results, and suffer from performance issues such as dead band and device failure.
Innovation Solution
A modular acceleration and braking mechanism kit that includes a support bracket, bell crank, and actuator, allowing quick installation and interchangeability between different vehicles, with a control system for autonomous operation and manual override capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional autonomous control devices are installed in the vehicle, then autonomous operation of pedals is achieved, but installation time is excessive and delays durability testing
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous control device is divided into separate modular components: a control system, an accelerator pedal assembly with actuator, and a brake pedal assembly with actuator. Each module can be independently installed, tested, and replaced, significantly reducing installation time and enabling rapid deployment for durability testing
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to universally interface with both accelerator and brake pedals through standardized mounting mechanisms. The actuator assemblies can be interchanged between different pedal types, allowing the same control system to autonomously operate multiple vehicle functions without requiring vehicle-specific customization
2Extent of automation
If conventional autonomous control devices are installed in the vehicle, then autonomous operation is achieved, but modifications to the vehicle are required that invalidate durability test results
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous control functionality is extracted as a separate, removable system that interfaces with the vehicle's existing pedal mechanisms through temporary mounting methods. This allows the vehicle's original pedal system to remain intact and unmodified, ensuring that durability tests conducted with the autonomous system do not invalidate results when the system is removed
Solution Approach 2:
Mounting brackets and interface mechanisms serve as intermediaries between the autonomous control system and the vehicle's pedal assemblies. These intermediary components allow the autonomous system to couple with the pedals during testing without creating permanent modifications to the vehicle structure, preserving test validity
3Extent of automation
If conventional autonomous control devices are used, then autonomous operation is achieved, but removal time is excessive and delays subsequent testing
Solution Approach 1:
The modular architecture allows each pedal assembly and actuator to be independently removed without requiring disassembly of the entire system. This segmentation enables rapid removal of the autonomous control components between test sequences, maximizing testing throughput and vehicle utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates dynamic, quickly-adjustable fastening mechanisms that can be rapidly engaged and disengaged. This allows the autonomous control system to be efficiently installed and removed without time-consuming fastener operations, maintaining high productivity across multiple test cycles
4Extent of automation
If conventional autonomous control devices are installed, then autonomous operation is achieved, but performance issues such as dead band and device failure occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the position and state of the accelerator and brake pedals. This real-time feedback allows the control system to detect and compensate for dead bands, ensuring responsive and accurate autonomous operation without performance degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes redundant actuators and fail-safe mechanisms that are pre-configured to take over control functions if a device failure is detected. This beforehand cushioning ensures that single-point failures do not compromise autonomous operation, maintaining reliability throughout durability testing
Data Source
AI summary
An acceleration and braking mechanism kit autonomously controls a vehicle brake pedal and a vehicle accelerator pedal. The kit includes a support bracket and bell crank supported on the support bracket for connection with an acceleration pedal or a brake pedal of the vehicle. An actuator is connected to the bell crank for moving the bell crank. A first base bracket is configured to mount to a first vehicle. A second base bracket is configured to mount to a second vehicle. The first base bracket and the second base bracket each include a mounting feature. The support bracket includes a mounting base alternately engageable with the mounting feature of the first base bracket and the mounting feature of the second base bracket such that the support bracket may be mounted to the first base bracket in the first vehicle or to the second base bracket in the second vehicle.