Offset Linear Sensors for Non-Linear Brake Pedal Travel Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring brake pedal performance interfere with driver access and operation, as they require linear measurement devices to be directly in-line with the pedal, limiting their use and applicability across different vehicle sizes and configurations.
Innovation Solution
A system using at least two linear measurement devices, such as string potentiometers, offset from the brake pedal lever's face, which provide non-linear pedal travel measurements that are converted to linear values, allowing for unobstructed measurement and universal application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If linear measurement devices are placed directly in-line with the brake pedal face, then linear pedal travel measurement is achieved, but driver access and pedal operation are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by positioning measurement devices in a vertical offset from the brake pedal face rather than directly in-line. The devices measure pedal travel from an elevated position above the pedal, converting the measurement geometry from a direct linear path to an indirect path that projects onto a vertical plane, thereby avoiding interference with driver foot access while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary geometric relationship where non-linear measurements taken from an offset position are converted to equivalent linear measurements through mathematical transformation. The measurement devices act as intermediaries that capture pedal position data indirectly, and the conversion algorithm serves as a mediator to translate these readings into accurate linear travel values
2Ease of operation
If measurement devices are positioned to avoid interference with driver access, then driver operation is maintained, but measurement becomes non-linear and requires conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical measurement approach with an indirect measurement and computational conversion system. Instead of using a mechanical device that directly measures linear travel in-line with the pedal, the system uses offset position sensors that capture non-linear measurements and employs mathematical algorithms to compute the equivalent linear travel, substituting mechanical direct measurement with computational analysis
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal measurement system is designed for different vehicle sizes, then adaptability is improved, but measurement accuracy across configurations becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a measurement system with vertical offset positioning that can be applied across different vehicle sizes and brake pedal configurations. The offset measurement geometry and conversion algorithm create a universal approach that adapts to various pedal travel ranges and vehicle platforms without requiring device redesign, maintaining functionality across diverse applications
Data Source
AI summary
Linear brake pedal travel measurements are provided using a diagnostic unit with at least two linear measurement devices. The at least two linear measurement devices are offset in at least a vertical direction from a face of the brake pedal lever, and therefore directly measure non-linear pedal travel values. Thus, in certain embodiments, the system is further configured to convert the non-linear pedal travel measurements received from each of the at least two linear measurement devices to a linear brake pedal travel value corresponding to an operated position of the brake pedal lever. The resulting linear brake pedal travel information may then be used to evaluate brake pedal performance or measure customer brake feeling in an objective and reproducible way.