Pedal Operation Detection with Axial Thrust Elastic Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

The arrangement of detection elements in existing operation amount detection devices is restricted by the shape of the reaction force member, limiting flexibility and complicating the configuration and assembly.

Innovation Solution

An operation amount detection device with a first member rotating about a center axis, a second member movable relative to the first member, a conversion mechanism converting rotation to axial thrust, and an elastic body with a detection element fixed apart from the reaction force member, allowing for simplified and less restrictive arrangement of the detection element.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the strain body is provided on the reaction force member, then the detection function is achieved, but the arrangement of the detection element is restricted by the shape of the reaction force member

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearrangement flexibility of detection elementVSAvoidconfiguration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a detection element support member as an intermediary component that is separate from the reaction force member. This support member carries the strain body and detection element, allowing them to be positioned independently of the reaction force member's shape. The intermediary transfers the necessary mechanical forces while decoupling the detection element arrangement constraints from the reaction force member geometry.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the detection system into separate functional components: the reaction force member handles force transmission, while the detection element support member handles detection element positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the detection element support member providing flexible arrangement possibilities不受限于反应力构件的形状.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the detection element is fixed to the elastic body provided apart from the reaction force member, then the arrangement flexibility is improved, but additional support structures are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearrangement flexibility of detection elementVSAvoidassembly workability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The detection element support member serves multiple functions: it supports the detection element, provides a mounting surface for the strain body, and facilitates wiring routing. By consolidating these functions into a single component, the patent improves assembly workability while maintaining arrangement flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The support member acts as an intermediary that simplifies assembly by pre-integrating the detection element and strain body mounting features. This intermediary component can be manufactured separately and then assembled to the reaction force member, improving ease of manufacture and assembly workability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration simplifies the bearing support and improves wiring routing and assembly workability while preventing rattling, enabling a more flexible and efficient detection of operation amounts.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic body provided apart from the reaction force member and configured to be elastically deformed by the thrust force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a detection element fixed to the elastic body and configured to detect a deformation amount of the elastic body

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStrain detection: Piezoresistive Effect

Implementation Method 3

a conversion mechanism configured to convert rotation of the first member into a relative movement of the first member and the second member in the axial direction to convert the rotation torque into a thrust force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical conversion: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS12535846B2Operation amount detection device

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 AISIN CORP

AI summary

An operation amount detection device including a first member rotational about a rotation center axis by an operation force input to a pedal and transmitting rotation torque. A second member receives, from a reaction force member, a reaction force of the transmitted torque, the second member being rotatable about the rotation center axis and axially movable relative to the first member and being interposed between the first member and the reaction force member. A conversion mechanism converts rotation of the first member into a relative movement of the first member and the second member axially to convert the rotation torque into a thrust force in the axial direction and an elastic body is provided apart from the reaction force member and configured to be elastically deformed by the thrust force. A detection element is fixed to the elastic body and detects a deformation amount of the elastic body.