Pedal Feel Simulating System With Friction Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electrical pedal systems for motor vehicles, drivers miss the tactile feedback of mechanical pedal systems, leading to discomfort and a need for simulating the pedal feel of mechanical systems to enhance driver experience.
Innovation Solution
A pedal feel simulating system comprising a compressible elongated device with a spring and friction element between a pedal arm and a bracket, providing a constant counterforce and inertia similar to mechanical systems, along with a position sensor connected to a control system for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an electrical pedal system is used to enable computer-controlled actuation of sensors, then control precision and automation are improved, but the tactile feedback and mechanical feel that drivers are accustomed to deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A friction element is introduced as an intermediary component between the pedal arm and the actuation mechanism. This friction element creates a frictional force that simulates the mechanical resistance and tactile feedback of traditional mechanical pedal systems, while the overall system remains computer-controlled. The friction element acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between electrical control and mechanical sensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the pedal system by introducing friction and elastic properties through the friction element and spring mechanism. These parameter changes create a hysteresis effect and mechanical resistance that mimics the feel of mechanical pedal systems, allowing drivers to experience familiar tactile feedback while maintaining automated control.
2Ease of operation
If a friction element is added to simulate mechanical inertia and hysteresis, then pedal feel realism is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The friction element is nested within the pedal arm assembly, specifically positioned between the pedal arm and the actuation mechanism. This nested arrangement allows the friction element to be integrated into the existing structure without requiring separate external components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while still achieving the desired pedal feel simulation.
3Force
If the friction element is positioned to enclose the spring, then constant counterforce over pedal stroke is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The friction element is designed with an asymmetric positioning relative to the spring, where it partially encloses the spring in a specific configuration. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that the friction element maintains consistent contact and pressure points throughout the pedal stroke, generating a constant counterforce. The asymmetric design compensates for potential manufacturing variations by creating a self-aligning friction interface.
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 system effectively simulates the pedal feel of mechanical systems, providing a cost-effective and comfortable driving experience by replicating the hysteresis and inertia of mechanical pedals, while maintaining sensitivity to wear and temperature changes.
Implementation Method 1
The elongated device comprises a first spring parallel to the longitudinal extension of the elongated device
Implementation Method 2
there is a friction element arranged between a first housing and a second housing of the compressible elongated device, which counteracts the compressing and de-compressing movement of the elongated device due to a frictional force that the friction element provides
Implementation Method 3
a compressible elongated device between a pedal arm and a bracket so that the compressible device can be compressed when the driver presses the pedal arm
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a pedal feel simulating system (1) for a motor vehicle. The system comprises a bracket (20), a pedal arm (10) pivotally coupled to the bracket (20) at a pivot point (15), and a compressible elongated device (30) for dampening a pivotal movement of the pedal arm around the pivot point (15). The elongated device has a longitudinal extension between a first end part (31) coupled to the pedal arm (10) and a second end part (32) coupled to the bracket (20). The elongated device (30) comprises a first spring (33) parallel to the longitudinal extension of the elongated device (30), a first housing (34) at least partly enclosing the first spring (33) and a second housing (35) at least partly enclosing the first housing (34). Either the first housing (34) or the second housing (35) is connected to the pedal arm (10) and the one of the first housing and the second housing not being connected to the pedal arm is connected to the bracket (20). Further, a friction element (36) is arranged between the first housing (34) and the second housing (35) so as to enable an inertia in the pivotal movement of the pedal arm.