Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Foot operated
Reexamination Certificate
1999-08-24
2001-11-13
Herrmann, Allan D. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Foot operated
C074S560000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06314831
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Technical Field
The subject invention relates to an adjustable pedal assembly of the type attached to an automotive vehicle to control the brake, clutch and/or throttle in normal operation but which can be adjusted to a different position to accommodate a different driver position.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Foot operated pedals are provided for controlling the brakes, clutch, and engine throttle in automotive vehicles. Pedal assemblies have been recently developed wherein the position of pedal can be adjusted to accommodate different operators and/or driving positions. One group of such assemblies include a guide rod slidably supporting a pedal support with a pedal lever mounted on the support. A screw is included for driving the pedal support along the rod between various adjusted positions. However, the screw is disposed within the guide rod which complicates the drive connection between the pedal support and the screw. Variations of such assemblies are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,643,525; 4,875,385; 4,989,474; 5,078,024; 5,460,061; 5,697,260; 5,722,302 and 5,819,593.
With the constant desire to reduce weight and cost, there remains the corresponding need for simplified combinations to reduce the number of components, the combined weight and the manufacturing operations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES
An adjustable pedal assembly comprising a guide rod, a pedal support slidably supported on the guide rod, a pedal pivotally mounted on the support, and a screw for driving said pedal support along the rod. The assembly is characterized by the screw being external to and parallel to the guide rod.
The combination of he subject invention reduces the number of components, the combined weight and the manufacturing operations. In a more specific sense, there is no need to bore out the center of the guide rod to insert the screw when the screw is located external to and parallel to the guide rod. This feature allows for a solid guide rod to be used, saving money and time in manufacturing the product.
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Bortolon Christopher
Rixon Christopher J.
Herrmann Allan D.
Howard & Howard
Kim Chong H.
Teleflex Incorporated
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