Vehicle Pedal Reaction Mechanism Using Leaf Springs to Save Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pedal devices require a large space for the reaction force generation mechanism, especially when a large reaction force is needed, leading to an increase in the physical size of the pedal device.
Innovation Solution
The pedal device incorporates a reaction force generation mechanism using a leaf spring instead of coil springs, which reduces the required space as it only needs a thickness equal to the leaf spring's thickness and the amount of deflection, compared to the wire diameter and number of turns of coil springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If coil springs are used for the reaction force generation mechanism, then a large reaction force can be generated, but the physical size of the pedal device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional coil spring mechanism with a leaf spring mechanism. The leaf spring generates reaction force through elastic deformation when bent, substituting the mechanical coil spring system with a simpler, more space-efficient elastic element that achieves the same force generation function with reduced dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the spring mechanism by using a leaf spring with specific thickness and length parameters instead of coil springs with wire diameter and turn parameters. This parameter change allows the reaction force generation mechanism to occupy less space while maintaining the required force output capability.
2Ease of operation
If the reaction force generation mechanism is designed to provide large reaction force, then the pedaling feedback is improved, but the space required for the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the coil spring-based mechanical system with a leaf spring-based system that provides superior pedaling feedback through direct elastic response. The leaf spring's configuration allows it to deliver tactile feedback to the driver while occupying minimal space in the pedal assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional coil spring structure to a two-dimensional leaf spring structure. This dimensional change allows the reaction force generation mechanism to be flattened and integrated more efficiently into the pedal device, reducing the overall space requirement while maintaining feedback quality.
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
This design allows for a reduction in the physical size of the pedal device by minimizing the space needed for the reaction force generation mechanism, while still providing an effective reaction force against the pedaling force.
Implementation Method 1
The reaction force generation mechanism includes a plurality of resilient members including a predetermined leaf spring
Data Source
AI summary
A pedal device mounted on a vehicle includes a housing, a pedal pad, and a reaction force generation mechanism. The housing is mounted on a vehicle body. The pedal pad is provided to be rotatable with respect to the housing. The reaction force generation mechanism is configured to include a plurality of resilient members each having a predetermined leaf spring. The reaction force generation mechanism is arranged in a space on the side opposite to a surface stepped on by a driver in the pedal pad to generate a reaction force against a pedaling force applied to the pedal pad by the driver.