Pedal Assembly Two-Stage Spring Mechanism Drive-by-Wire Feel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern motor vehicles with drive by wire systems lack the traditional pedal feel that drivers are accustomed to, as they operate through electronic signals rather than mechanical connections, leading to a different and potentially unfamiliar experience for operators.
Innovation Solution
A pedal assembly with a two-stage spring mechanism that mimics the reactive force of traditional mechanical pedals, providing a specific range of force increase rates to emulate the feel of mechanical pedals in drive by wire systems, such as brake by wire, electronic throttle control, and shift by wire systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wire systems are used instead of mechanical systems, then electronic control precision and safety are improved, but pedal feel and operator familiarity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A reaction force generator is introduced as an intermediary component between the pedal and the wire system. This device mechanically generates reactive forces that simulate traditional mechanical pedal feel, while the electronic control system independently manages precision through electronic signals. The intermediary allows both electronic precision and mechanical feel to coexist without direct mechanical connection.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical connections are used, then traditional pedal feel is maintained, but system complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the pedal interface, the reaction force generator, and the electronic control system. This segmentation allows the mechanical pedal feel to be generated independently by the reaction force generator, while the electronic system handles control precision, reducing overall mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical connections between pedal and vehicle components are replaced with an electronic control system that uses electronic signals and processors. The mechanical feel is simulated separately by a reaction force generator, substituting complex mechanical linkages with a simpler electronic architecture.
3Force
If mechanical connections are used, then direct force transmission is achieved, but weight and system mass increase
Solution Approach 1:
Direct mechanical force transmission pathways are replaced with electronic signal transmission and separate reaction force generation. The electronic system transmits control information without physical force transmission, and the reaction force generator creates simulated mechanical feedback, significantly reducing system weight.
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 pedal assembly effectively replicates the feel of traditional mechanical pedals in drive by wire systems, enhancing operator comfort and familiarity while maintaining the advantages of electronic control, including improved safety and precision.
Implementation Method 1
A pedal assembly with a two-stage spring mechanism that mimics the reactive force of traditional mechanical pedals, providing a specific range of force increase rates
Data Source
AI summary
A pedal assembly for use in a motorized vehicle comprises a horizontal member, a pedal connected to the horizontal member at a first position, and a spring having a first end and a second end. The spring is connected at the first end to the pedal, and is connected at the second end to the horizontal member at a second position. Depressing the pedal within a first range of angles causes the spring to exert a reactive force within a first range of values increasing at a rate having a first maximum slope. Depressing the pedal within a second range of angles causes the spring to exert a reactive force within a second range of values increasing at a rate having a second maximum slope.