Pedal Value Generator Torque Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pedal value generators for motor vehicles are complex and inefficient, requiring separate mechanical systems for accelerator and brake pedals, which complicates their construction and operation.
Innovation Solution
A pedal value generator with two separate actuating surfaces on a common cross member, where a sensor detects torque to generate electrical signals based on the direction and degree of actuation, allowing for simplified control of both pedals with a rigid, jointless design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate mechanical systems are used for accelerator and brake pedals, then reliable detection of pedal position is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the accelerator and brake pedals into a single common pedal unit with a shared sensor system. The common pedal unit includes a single sensor that detects the position of the common pedal, which is mechanically linked to both the accelerator and brake pedals. This merging eliminates the need for separate mechanical systems and sensors for each pedal, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable detection capability through the unified sensor arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The common pedal unit serves multiple functions by being mechanically connected to both the accelerator and brake pedals. A single sensor arrangement detects position information for both pedals through the common pedal unit, making the sensor system universal. This multi-functionality allows one sensor system to perform the detection tasks that would traditionally require two separate systems, thus reducing overall system complexity.
2Device complexity
If rigid cross member is used, then structural simplification is achieved, but detection precision of torque direction and magnitude must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection systems with a sensor-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical linkages and moving parts to detect pedal position, the invention uses a sensor arrangement that directly measures torque on the rigid cross member. This substitution of mechanical detection with sensor-based detection maintains high measurement precision while allowing the use of a simplified rigid structure without moving joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from mechanical position to torque measurement. By measuring the torque acting on the rigid cross member rather than tracking mechanical position through joints and linkages, the system achieves both structural simplification and precise detection. The sensor arrangement detects torque magnitude and direction, providing the necessary position information through a different physical parameter that is well-suited to rigid structures.
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 solution enables comprehensive control of a motor vehicle with significant structural simplification, eliminating the need for separate mechanical systems and allowing for efficient detection of pedal direction and force, thereby reducing complexity and potential for error.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor arrangement for detecting a torque of the cross member with respect to a torque axis arranged between the first and second pedal actuating surfaces and for supplying an electrical actuation signal as a function of the torque
Data Source
AI summary
A pedal value generator 14 for a motor vehicle 30, a pedal value generator arrangement 10 and a method for controlling a motor vehicle 30 are described. A first pedal actuating surface 16 and, at a distance thereto, a second pedal actuating surface 18 are arranged on a cross member 20. A sensor arrangement 24 detects a torque M of the cross member 20 with respect to a torque axis X arranged between the first and second pedal actuating surfaces 16, 18 and for supplying an electrical actuation signal B1, B2 as a function of torque M. When an actuating force acts upon first pedal actuating surface 16 motor vehicle 30 can be accelerated and when an actuating force acts upon second pedal actuating surface 18 it can be decelerated.