Steering Column Four-Bar Mechanism for Consistent Brake Pedal Feel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tractor steering column systems fail to provide consistent brake pedal feel across different operator positions due to the need for sliding mechanisms, which add complexity and cost, and can compromise safety and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly utilizing a four-bar mechanism with a brake cylinder fixed to the chassis and a connecting rod acting in parallel, allowing the steering wheel and brake pedal to move in unison while maintaining consistent pedal feel and simplifying the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the brake pedal pivots are attached to the steering column and the entire steering column and pedals are allowed to slide fore and aft, then the positioning flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent adjustment mechanisms: a four-bar mechanism for fore-aft positioning and a separate vertical adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows each mechanism to perform its specific function independently, reducing the complexity of any single mechanism while maintaining overall positioning flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-bar mechanism provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the steering column and pedals to be adjusted to multiple positions along the fore-aft axis. The mechanism transitions from a fixed position to an adjustable dynamic system, enabling operators of different statures to find their optimal positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the brake cylinder attachment point is moved from the vehicle chassis onto the moveable steering column, then the positioning flexibility is improved, but the reliability and safety decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The brake cylinder attachment point is extracted from the moveable steering column and repositioned to the fixed vehicle chassis. This extraction separates the braking function from the positioning mechanism, ensuring that the brake system remains stable and reliable while the steering column maintains its positioning flexibility through the four-bar mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
A connecting rod acts as an intermediary element between the fixed brake cylinder on the chassis and the moveable brake pedal on the steering column. This intermediary component transmits the braking force while accommodating the fore-aft movement of the steering column, maintaining both reliability and positioning flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pedal is moved relative to a fixed cylinder position, then the positioning flexibility is improved, but the consistency of brake pedal feel decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The four-bar mechanism is designed to maintain a constant geometric relationship between the brake pedal and the connecting rod throughout its range of motion. This dynamic geometry ensures that the mechanical advantage and pedal feel remain consistent even as the steering column moves to different positions, providing uniform braking characteristics for operators at various seating positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly for a vehicle, the assembly having a steering wheel for steering the vehicle, a brake pedal for operating the vehicle brakes, wherein the steering wheel and a pivot for the brake pedal are carried on a four bar mechanism mounted on the vehicle.