GB2402993A

GB2402993A - Giving feel to a pedal assembly for computer input with compressible stops and restoring means

Info

Publication number: GB2402993A
Application number: GB0314556A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David A Nicholson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2003-06-21
Filing date: 2003-06-21
Publication date: 2004-12-22
Also published as: GB0314556D0

Abstract

A pedal assembly (e.g. for input into a computer driving simulation game) has a pedal head 101 linked to a potentiometer actuator arm 112 by a connection means e.g. cable 110. Maximum travel stops 106, 109, restoring means e.g. elastomer elements or springs 111 ,(305, fig 3) and adjustable compressible stops 104, (200, fig 2; 302, fig 3) may give feel (e.g. a simulated biting point) to the pedal. Compressible stops may have rubber portions that are tapered (fig 4a); rounded or flat (fig 4b); cylindrical (fig 4c) or of an elongate wedge shape (fig 4c), and engage a profiled pedal arm (fig 5). An arm (203, fig 2) connecting the cable 110 to the pedal may bend or twist. Two or three pedals may be mounted in a frame (figs 6 & 7) with different characteristics to simulate the feel of an accelerator, brake and/or clutch pedal.

Description

PEDAL DEVICE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a pedal device, and in particular although not exclusively, to a pedal device configured for use with a computer programme pedal input device.

Backaround to the Invention

For use in simulators and simulation games, in particular driving simulation JO games, it is known to use a pedal-style computer input devices to allow a user to experience a more realistic simulated driving experience. Typically, such pedal- input devices are based around the design of vehicle pedals where a user depresses the pedal by application of a force to a pedal head.

:s Within the art, two distinct categories of pedal input devices have emerged.

The earlier and first generation input devices fall along way short of simulating real-life vehicle pedal systems with regard to their feel, adjustability, realism and sensitivity within the driving simulation programme.

o The second generation pedal input devices to emerge recently are designed to provide greater realism and adjustability. Various examples include US 5,116,051, FR 2682508, CA 2146839, BE 1002625 and more recently JP 2002049432.

: Presently, a user whilst using a typical simulation computer programme inputs signals to the computer at desired time periods by operation of the pedal input device. A potentiometer converts pedal displacement to electronic signals.

Resulting from the sophistication of simulation computer programmed and in particular driving simulation computer programmed, the inventors have identified various problems associated with the prior art pedal input devices.

A first problem exists in that owners of first generation pedal input devices are required to purchase second generation input devices, effectively discarding their old systems. Commonly, both first and second generation input devices share components such that a user is required to effectively discard perfectly good components.

A second problem exists with second generation input devices resulting from their unrefined feel and adustability. Such second generation pedal input devices have limited adjustability in that a variety of different vehicle pedal To systems cannot be simulated.

What is required therefore is a computer programme simulation pedal input system configured to allow a user to enhance adjustability and realistic feel of a first generation pedal input device without resort to discarding essential components of the first generation input device.

It is therefore one aim of the present invention to provide a pedal assembly configured to utilise a known pedal input device and to extend the realistic feel and adjustability of such a device so as to provide a more realistic pedal feel with To enhanced adjustability.

Summarv of the Invention On realising the disadvantages associated with prior art pedal input devices, the inventors provide a pedal assembly configured for use with known pedal input s devices being usable with simulation computer programmed and in particular vehicle driving simulation computer programmes. The pedal assembly according to specific implementations of the present invention comprises at least one displaceable pedal, being operated by a user by the application of force, such a pedal being connected, via suitable connection means, to an existing pedal input 3 o device, and in particular a potentiometer of the pedal input device.

According to aspects of the present invention a pedal assembly is provided configurable for operation as a brake, accelerator and/or clutch pedal within a driving simulation computer programme environment.

According to specific implementations of the present invention disclosed herein, complete adjustment or alteration of the feel of the pedal(s) is achieved, not being restricted to discreet pre-set component positions as is common with prior art pedal input devices. Accordingly, for each pedal, being operated by a user, within the device, a vast number of adjustable configurations are possible allowing a user to simulate, almost exactly, a vast number of vehicle pedal systems, including brake, clutch and accelerator pedals.

Through utilisation of the invention disclosed herein, a user may upgrade a typical prior art pedal input device in terms of feel and adjustability.

The feel associated with a brake or accelerator pedal is dependent upon many factors including, a length of pedal travel, the resistance provided by the pedal in response to an applied force; the resistance experienced at specific stages through depression of the pedal and a magnitude of a return force of the o pedal. With regard to a vehicle clutch, the feel of the clutch is critically important around the biting point where the clutch operates to engage the engine.

According to specific implementations of the present invention the pedal assembly herein provides enhanced adjustment of the above parameters allowing a user to selectively tailor the feel of the pedal(s) to a sufficient degree so as to simulate real-life vehicle braking, acceleration and clutch systems.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention the at least one pedal is displaceabley mounted on a frame, such displacement being either a slidable or pivotal displacement. At least one compressible stop is provided in so close proximity to the displaceable pedal such that following depression of the pedal, the compressible stop is engaged resulting in compression of the stop and the associated resistance experienced by a user.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a pedal assembly configured for use with a computer entity pedal input device, said input device comprising a potentiometer and a potentiometer actuator arm, said pedal assembly comprising: a pedal configured for displacement in response to an applied force; and connection means being configured to connect said pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises a frame, said pedal and said pedal input device being mounted on said frame.

Preferably, said pedal is pivotally mounted on said frame.

Preferably, said pedal is slidably mounted on said frame.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises restoring means, said restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement in response to said applied force.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises at least one compressible stop being configured for engagement by said pedal in response to said applied 2 5 force.

Preferably, said pedal comprises a pedal head and an engaging arm, said engaging arm being configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.

Preferably, said pedal is operable as a brake pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.

Preferably, said pedal is operable as a accelerator pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.

Preferably, said pedal is operable is a clutch pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.

Preferably, said connection means comprises a cable.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises cable adjustment means, To said cable adjustment means being configured to allow adjustment of a length of cable connecting said pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.

Preferably, said restoring means comprises a spring.

Preferably, said restoring means is adjustably connected to said potentiometer actuator arm.

Preferably, said connection means connect said pedal to said potentiometer actuator arm of said pedal input device.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises: a second pedal configured for displacement in response to a second applied force; and second connection means being configured to connect said second pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.

Preferably, said second pedal is pivotally mounted on said frame.

Preferably, said second pedal is slidably mounted on said frame.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises second restoring means, said second restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said second pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement in response to said applied force.

Preferably, said second pedal comprises a pedal head and an engaging arm, said engaging arm being configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.

Preferably, a feel of said pedal, experienced by a user, is adjustable by adjustment of any one or a combination of the following: À a relative distance between said engaging arm and said at least one compressible stop; À a relative positioning of said at least one compressible stop relative to a length of said engaging arm; À an orientation alignment of said at least one compressible stop relative 2 o to an axis along a length of said engaging arm; À a composition of said at least one compressible stop; À a shape of at least one compressible stop; À a size of at least one compressible stop; À a multiplicity of said at least one compressible stop; o À a size of said engaging arm; À a shape of said engaging arm; À a shape and size of a leading edge of said engaging arm.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a pedal assembly configured for use with a computer entity pedal input device being operable with a vehicle control simulation computer programme, said input device comprising a first and second potentiometer and a first and second potentiometer actuator arm, said pedal assembly comprising: a first pedal configured for displacement in response to a first applied force; a second pedal configured for displacement in response to a second applied force; first connection means being configured to connect said first pedal to said computer entity pedal input device; and second connection means being configured to connect said second pedal 2 o to said computer entity pedal input device.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises a frame, said first and second pedal and said pedal input device being mounted on said frame.

Preferably, said first and second pedal are pivotally mounted on said frame.

Preferably, said first and second pedal are slidably mounted on said frame.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises: first restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said first pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement of said first pedal in response to said first applied force; and second restoring means, said second restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said second pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement of said second pedal in response to said second applied force.

o Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises at least on compressible stop being configured for engagement by said first or second pedal in response to said first or second applied force.

Preferably, said first and second pedal each comprise a pedal head and an engaging arm, said engaging arm being configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.

Preferably, said first pedal is operable as a brake pedal within a driving simulation computer programme and said second pedal is operable as an 2 o accelerator pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.

Preferably, said engaging arm of said brake pedal is configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.

2 Preferably, said connection means comprises a cable.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises a third pedal configured for displacement in response to a third applied force; and third connection means being configured to connect said third pedal to said computer entity input device.

Preferably, said first connection means connects said first pedal to a first potentiometer of said pedal input device and said second connection means connects said second pedal to a second potentiometer of said pedal input device.

Preferably, said third connection means connects said third pedal to a third potentiometer of said pedal input device.

Preferably, said pedal input device further comprises a third potentiometer actuator arm wherein first connection means connects said first pedal to said first o potentiometer actuator arm, said second connection means connects said second pedal to said second potentiometer actuator arm and said third connection means connects said third pedal to said third potentiometer actuator arm.

According to a third aspect in the present invention there is provided a pedal assembly being configured for use with a computer programme pedal input device, said input device comprising a first and second potentiometer, said pedal assembly comprising: a first pedal configured for displacement in response to a first applied force, said first pedal comprising a pedal head and an engaging arm; a second pedal configured for displacement in response to a second applied force, said second pedal comprising a pedal head and an engaging arm; a frame configurable to mount said input device and said first and second pedal; first connection means being configured to connect said first pedal to said 3 o first potentiometer of said input device; second connection means being configured to connect said second pedal to said second potentiometer of said pedal device; and at least one compressible stop positioned substantially opposed to said engaging arm of said first pedal, said at least one compressible stop being configured for engagement by said engaging arm of said first pedal in response to said first applied force.

Preferably, the pedal assembly further comprises first restoring means To being configured to effect a return displacement of said first pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to displacement of said first pedal in response to said first applied force; and second restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of :s said second pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to a displacement of said second pedal in response to said second applied force.

Preferably, said first and second restoring means are adjustable.

To Preferably, a feel of said first (e.g. brake) and third (e.g. clutch) pedal, experienced by a user, is adjustable by adjustment of any one or a combination of the following: À a relative distance between said engaging arm and said at least one : compressible stop; À a relative positioning of said at least one compressible stop relative to a length of said engaging arm; À an orientation alignment of said at least one compressible stop relative to an axis along a length of said engaging arm; À a composition of said at least one compressible stop; À a shape of at least one compressible stop; À a size of at least one compressible stop; À a multiplicity of said at least one compressible stop; À a size of said engaging arm; À a shape of said engaging arm; À a shape and size of a leading edge of said engaging arm.

Brief Descrintion of the Drawings For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 illustrates a side elevation view of a brake pedal according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates a side elevation view of a brake pedal according to a further specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates a side elevation view of a clutch pedal according to a specific implementation of the present invention; o Figure 4a illustrates a side elevation view of a compressible stop according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 4b illustrates a side elevation view of a compressible stop according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 4c illustrates a side elevation view of a compressible stop according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 5 illustrates a front end elevation view of a pedal and a compressible stop according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a pedal assembly according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 7 illustrates the adjustable mounting of a plurality of pedals onto a frame according to a specific implementation of the present invention.

Detailed Descrintion There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be so apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to

unnecessarily obscure the description.

Specific implementations of the present invention are aimed at a pedal system usable with conventional, known prior art pedal input devices currently used with computer programme driving simulators or games. The pedal assembly detailed herein is designed so as to provide a user with a plurality of pedals being fully adjustable and allowing an enhanced of degree of feel so as to so simulate a plurality of different real-life vehicle pedal systems, including brake, accelerator and/or clutch.

By using selected components of a prior art pedal input system a pedal assembly may be provided, having relatively simple design and minimal components thereby saving on manufacturing and end user cost.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention, a realistic brake, accelerator and/or clutch pedal feel is achieved. Each pedal comprises a displaceable engaging arm being connected to a pedal head. Following the application of force, the pedal is displaced (either slidably or pivotally) whereby at least one compressible stop is engaged by the pedal. In particular, the engaging arm is configured to engage the at least one compressible stop thereby providing a resistive force to the pressure applied by a user via the pedal head. As the compressible stop is not connected directly or indirectly to the engaging arm an unrestricted, smooth and progressive resistance is experienced by a user, such resistance not being effected by intermediate component parts.

Each pedal of the pedal assembly is connected to the prior art pedal input device via suitable connection means, in the form of a cable. Suitable restoring means are also provided to effect a return displacement of the pedal, the return displacement being substantially opposed to displacement of the pedal following the applied force. Attachment of the restoring means, in the form of a spring or elastomer may be made to the pedal of the pedal assembly and/or an appropriate part of the pedal input device, such as connection to the potentiometer or a potentiometer actuator arm.

Referring to Figure 1 herein there is illustrated a side elevation view of a pedal 100 of the pedal assembly comprising a pedal head 101; an engaging arm 102; pivot means 103; at least one compressible stop 104; a pedal support arm 105; a maximum travel stop 106; assembly base 107; stop mount 108; return stop 109; connection means 110; restoring means 111; potentiometer actuator arm 112; potentiometer 113; potentiometer cabling 114 and adjustment means 115.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention pedal support head 101 is adjustably connected to engaging arm 102 via support arm 105. Pedal head 101 may be adjustably positioned relative to engaging arm 102 including adjustment of angle of displacement from and positioning along engaging arm 102. Displaceable engaging arm 102 is pivotally mounted, substantially at one end via pivot means 103, engaging arm 102 and pedal head 101 being configured to pivot about pivot means 103 along arc 117.

According to further specific implementations of the present invention To engaging arm 102 and pedal head 101 may be slidably mounted on base 107 such that following application of a force exerted by user, the pedal 100 of the pedal assembly is displaceabley depressed.

Being positioned opposed to engaging arm 102 there is provided at least one compressible stop 104, optionally being a rubber stop. Stop 104 is adjustably positioned in stop mount 108 being adjustably positioned to the pedal assembly, and in particular base 107.

Maximum travel stop 106 is provided to arrest displacement of pedal 100 at 2 o a maximum displacement. Return stop 109 is further provided to arrest displacement of pedal 100 during a return displacement. Maximum travel stop 106 and return stop 109 may be adjustably positioned relative to engaging arm 102 so as to provide means to adjust a travel of pedal 100 during depression and return displacement.

Connection means 110 connects pedal 100 to a prior art pedal input device, and in particular a potentiometer actuator arm 112 connected to potentiometer 1 13. Restoring means 1 10 may be connected to potentiometer actuator arm 1 12 so as to provide a restoring force being substantially opposed to a depression So displacement of pedal 100. Restoring means 111, may optionally be a spring or elastomer. Potentiometer cabling 114 connects potentiometer 113 to a suitable computer input plug to allow physical movement of potentiometer 113 to be translated to electronic signals input into a computer for use within a computer simulator or game programme.

Adjustment means 115 are provided to allow adjustment of connection means 110 between pedal 100 and the pedal input device. Accordingly the relative positioning of the pedal assembly, comprising pedal 100, may be adjusted substantially by adjustment of adjustment means 115. Additionally a feel and sensitivity of pedal 100 may be adjusted by adjustment means 115.

To Referring to Figure 2 herein there is illustrated a side elevation view of pedal as detailed with reference to Figure 1 herein further comprising a second compressible stop, pedal assembly floor 201; stop mount adjustment means 202 and connection means support arm 203.

According to the specific implementation of the present invention pedal 100 is connected to connection means 110 via connection means support arm 203, providing a intermediate connection between engaging arm 102. Support arm 203 may comprise the same or similar material to engaging arm 102 however a suitable material may be utilised to provide a non-rigid arm 203 such that bending or twisting of arm 203 may be used to enhance a feel and sensitivity of pedal 100.

Return stop 109 is mounted at floor 201 such that pedal 100 is restricted from interfacing directly with floor 201.

Stops 104, 200 and 106 are adjustably mounted at stop mount 108, being releaseably or permanently attached to base 107, releasable attachment being possible via adjustment means 202. Stop 109 is also adjustably positioned relative to floor 201 so as to provide adjustment of the length of travel of o engaging arm 102.

ln operation, a user applies a force to pedal head 101 via a foot, such an applied force being transferred to engaging arm 102 via pedal support arm 105.

A leading edge or surface of engaging arm 102 is then brought into contact with stop 104 and subsequently stop 200 such that with the continuation of applied force, stop 104 and stop 200 are compressed providing a resistive/reactive force to the applied force.

A feel experienced by a user when exerting a force on pedal head 101 may be varied considerably by adjustment of the following non-exhaustive list To including a distance between engaging arm 102 and stops 104, 200; a relative positioning of stop 104, 200 along the length of engaging arm 102 relative to pivot means 103; an orientation alignment of stops 104, 200 relative to an axis along the length of engaging arm 102; a composition of stops 104, 200; a shape of stops 104, 200, a size of stops 104, 200; a multiplicity of stops 104, 200; a size of engaging arm 102; a shape of engaging arm 102 and in particular a shape and size of a leading edge or surface of engaging arm 102.

Following depression of pedal 100 along arc 117 potentiometer actuator arm 112 is also depressed along arc 116 via connection means 110.

To Displacement of potentiometer 113 of the prior art pedal input device is then translated to electrical signals to be input into a computer. Restoring means 110 provides a restoring force to return pedal 100 to an initial start position following the applied force at pedal head 101.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, and by way of example, the ease with which pedal 100 may be depressed and the corresponding feel of the pedal assembly is directly dependent upon variation of the above parameters in addition to adjustment of the connection means 110 and restoring means 111.

For example, a "stir' pedal feel may be achieved using a high resistance spring o and rigid support arm 203.

According to specific implementations of the present invention the pedal assembly may comprise a brake pedal as detailed with reference to Figures 1 or 2 herein, an accelerator pedal being similar or identical to the pedal as disclosed in Figure 1 and 2 herein with or without compressible stops 104 and/or 200 in addition to a clutch pedal as detailed with reference to Figure 3 herein. The pedal assembly including a clutch pedal system is configured to simulate, near exactly, any one of a plurality of different real-life vehicle clutch systems. The clutch system disclosed herein is designed specifically to simulate real-life clutch systems with regard to feel and adjustability. A realistic clutch pedal feel is o achieved through simple construction and minimal component parts whilst allowing a vast range of component adjustability so as to achieve and provide a clutch pedal configured to simulate a plurality of different vehicle clutch systems.

Referring to Figure 3 herein there is illustrated a clutch pedal 300 comprising similar components as detailed with reference to Figures 1 and 2 herein further comprising stop mount 301; at least one compressible stop 302; engaging means 303; additional restoring means 304 and fixing means 305, 306.

As detailed with reference to Figure 3 herein compressible stop 302 is adjustably positioned at stop mount 301, stop mount 301 being formed either separately o from or integrally with pedal block floor 201.

Additional restoring means 304 is connected to clutch pedal 300 via suitable fixing means 305, 306 being provided at, according to the specific implementation of Figure 3 herein engaging arm 102 and floor 201. Additional restoring means 304 may comprise a spring or elastomer.

In operation, a user applies a force to clutch pedal head 101, such an applied force being sufficient to overcome restoring means 111 and 304 resulting in displacement of the clutch pedal in a first direction in response to the applied force. In response to a decrease in the magnitude of the applied force, restoring means 111 (and optionally 304) is configured to provide a restoring force so as to return the clutch pedal in a restoring direction substantially opposed to displacement in the first direction. Engaging arm 102 is brought into contact with compressible stop 302 such that stop 302 is slowly and progressively compressed by the action of restoring means 111, 304 returning pedal 300 to its initial starting position.

The feel experienced by a user when returning pedal 300 to the initial start position (and in particular the associated simulated clutch bitingpoint) may be varied considerably by adjustment of, a distance betweenengaging arm (or stop engaging means) and compressible stop 302; a relative positioning of JO compressible stop 302 along a length of engaging arm 102 relative to pivot means 103; an orientation alignment of compressible stop 302 relative to an axis along the length of engaging arm 102; a composition of compressible stop 302; a shape of stop 302; a size of stop 302; a multiplicity of stop 302; a size and shape of engaging means 303 and in particular a shape and size of a leading edge or surface of engaging means 303, the leading edge being configured to engage into/onto compressible stop 302.

A corresponding feel of pedal 300 may be selectively adjusted by variation of the above parameters. For example, a hard non-tapered compressible stop 2 o 302 will provide a corresponding sharp biting-point resulting from the considerable resistive force exerted by compressible stop 302 being engaged by engaging means 303.

According to further specific implementations of pedal 300, compressible stop 302 may be mounted in close proximity to floor 201 so as to be engaged by engaging arm 102, stop 302 being adjustably positioned as detailed with stop 109. Incorporation of mount 301 and engaging means 303 would therefore be avoided.

3 o As detailed with reference to Figures 1 and 2 herein pedal 300 is configured for connection to and operation with a prior art pedal input device. Connection means 110 serve to connect displaceable pedal 300 to a potentiometer 113 or suitable potentiometer actuator arm 112. Displacement of pedal 300 thereby resulting in displacement of potentiometer 113, in turn generating the corresponding electrical signals for input into a computer entity. Adjustment of the feel and sensitivity of pedal 300, and in particular the simulated biting-point, is possible via adjustment of restoring means 111, 304, fixing means 305, 306, cable adjuster 115 in addition to the parameters identified above in respect of compressible stop 302 engaging means 303 and/or engaging arm 102.

Figures 1 to 3 herein detail specific implementations for the construction To and operation of brake, accelerator and clutch simulation pedals. As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee any specific pedal construction is usable with the present invention involving at least one compressible stop being configured for engagement by a displaceable arm or means.

Additionally, any form of connection means 110 may be utilised within the present invention being connected to at least one potentiometer of a prior art pedal input device using any suitable connection means. Further specific implementations may involve omitting restoring means 111 such that suitable restoring means are provided between displaceable arm 102 and for example o floor 201 as detailed with reference to Figure 3 herein (additional restoring means 304 and affixing means 305, 306). Affixing means 306 is adjustably positioned at engaging arm 102 such that restoring means 304 may be adjustably positioned along a length of engaging arm 102. Additionally, affixing means 305 may be adjustably mounted so that restoring means 304 is fully adjustably positioned along a length of engaging arm 102.

Where the potentiometer is mounted remotely from pivot means 103, the return force associated with the radial or sliding potentiometer provides an additional return force to that given by restoring means 200. Consideration of the o combined restoring force is therefore included herein.

Referring to Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d herein there is illustrated perspective views of different compressible stop configurations. Figure 4a herein illustrates a substantially tapered rubber stop having a single leading edge 401. Accordingly, stop 400 and in particular leading edge 401 may be aligned via stop mount 300, in a substantially perpendicular direction to a length of engaging arm 102.

Alternatively, leading edge 401 may be substantially transverse to a length of engaging arm 102 thereby providing a different degree of resistance following engagement by leading edge 110 of engaging arm 102. The degree and size of the taper of stop 400 may be adjusted so as to provide further resistance adjustment.

Figure 4b herein illustrates a further specific implementation of a compressible stop 402 comprising a substantially flat or slightly rounded engaging portion 403. Figure 4c herein illustrates a further specific implementation of a compressible stop 404 having a generally cylindrical configuration. Figure 4d herein illustrates a yet further specific implementation of compressible stop 405 being configured to extend along a length of engaging arm 102. Stop 405 may comprise a wedge-like configuration so as to provide greater adjustablity and feel variation in keeping with the spirit of the present 2 o invention.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the present invention is not restricted to utilisation of specific stops as detailed with reference to Figures 1 to 4d herein. Moreover, a composition of the at least one compressible stop may be selectively adjusted so as to increase adjustment of the feel of the pedal system.

Referring to Figure 5 herein there is illustrated a front end elevation view of the brake pedal as detailed with reference to Figures 1 to 2 herein. In operation, so brake pedal head 101 is depressed by a user whereby engaging arm 102 engages onto stop 104. A leading edge 500 of arm 102 may be adjusted to effect the way by which engaging arm 102 engages stop 104. As detailed with reference to Figure 5 herein engaging arm 102 comprises a substantially square or diamond cross section, arm 102 being a hollow material such as, for example, steel, a metal alloy or similar hard material. Additionally, leading edge 110 may be profiled or varied in shape and dimension along a length of engaging arm 102 so as to increase the degree of adjustment of feel of the pedal. Further specific implementations of engaging arm 102 include a substantially triangular, or elliptical cross-section, in turn, providing various leading edge profiles.

Referring to Figure 6 herein there is illustrated a side elevation perspective To view of the pedal assembly as detailed with reference to Figures 1 to 3 herein further comprising restoring means 111; mounting arms 600; securing frame 602

and prior art pedal input device 601.

The construction of frame 107 provides a mounting platform for the pedal s input device 601, being mounted above pedals 100, 300 of the pedal assembly.

Restoring means 111 are connected to mounting arms 600 whereby potentiometer actuator arms 112 and pedals 100 and 300 are returned to an initial starting position owing to the restoring force created by restoring means 111. The feel and operation of the simulated brake, accelerator and clutch So pedals may be further adjusted by adjustment of mounting arms 600. For example, mounting arms 600 are pivotally mounted to securing frame 602 such that a tension in restoring means 111 may be adjusted by altering an angle by which arms 600 extend from mount 602. Connection means 110 serve to connect restoring means 110 with the brake, clutch and/or accelerator pedals whereby one, two or three connection means are provided each operating independently for a single pedal being connected indirectly to a single potentiometer of the pedal input device 601. Holes (not shown) in the frame 107 may be provided to allow passage of connection means 110.

o As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the prior art input device 601 may be mounted in a plurality of different configurations so as to allow each of the brake, accelerator or clutch pedals to cooperate with the potentiometers within the pedal input device 601.

By adjustment of, in particular, the multiplicity, shape, size and relative positioning of the compressible stop being engaged by the pedal (including engaging means 303 and/or engaging arm 102) the accelerator, brake and clutch pedal configurations provide enhanced adjustment and sensitivity over that offered by prior art pedal input devices 601. For example, a user may selectively adjust the feel of the brake pedal 100, via adjustable stopper 104, such that a To resistance and a different resistance is experienced at different stages during the application of force to pedal head 101. Similarly, a user can selectively adjust the operation and feel of the pedal, in that as the clutch pedal is restored to an initial starting position a resistance and a different magnitude of resistance is experienced during displacement of the pedal in the restoring direction.

Conversely, prior art pedal input devices are configured with a single displacement operation requiring a constant applied force so as to effect depression of the pedal. According to the present invention a pedal assembly is provided such that, and so as to simulate real-life pedal systems, a different 2 0 magnitude of applied force is required to depress the pedal, involving an accelerator or brake. Similarly, for a clutch pedal a non- uniform restoring force is required to return the pedal to an initial start position.

Referring to Figure 7 herein there is illustrated a plan view of a pedal block s assembly including brake pedal 100 as detailed with reference to Figures 1 to 2 herein; accelerator 700; clutch 300 as detailed with reference to Figure 3 herein and pedal position adjustment means 701. By mounting the brake, accelerator and clutch pedals on frame 700 and in particular rails 702 a lateral displacement 703 of each pedal may be achieved. Additionally, a displacement front to back (705) is also possible via adjustment means 701, adjustment means 701 optionally being formed in cooperation with pivot means 103.

Claims

Claims: 1. A pedal assembly configured for use with a computer entity

pedal input device, said input device comprising a potentiometer and a potentiometer actuator arm, said pedal assembly comprising: a pedal configured for displacement in response to an applied force; and connection means being configured to connect said pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.
2. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a frame, said pedal and said pedal input device being mounted on said frame.
3. The pedal assembly as claimed in claims 1 or 2 wherein said pedal is pivotally mounted on said frame.
4. The pedal assembly as claimed in claims 1 or 2 wherein said pedal is slidably mounted on said frame.

So
5. The pedal assembly as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising restoring means, said restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement in response to said applied force.

s
6. The pedal assembly as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising at least one compressible stop being configured for engagement by said pedal in response to said applied force.
7. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 6 wherein said pedal o comprises a pedal head and an engaging arm, said engaging arm being configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.
8. The pedal assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said pedal is operable as a brake pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.
9. The pedal assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 7 wherein said pedal is operable as a accelerator pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.
10. The pedal assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 7 wherein said pedal is operable is a clutch pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.
11. The pedal assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said connection means comprises a cable.
12. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 11 further comprising cable adjustment means, said cable adjustment means being configured to allow adjustment of a length of cable connecting said pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.
13. The pedal assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 5 to 12 wherein said restoring means comprises a spring.
14. The pedal assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 5 to 13 wherein said restoring means is adjustably connected to said potentiometer actuator arm.
15. The pedal assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said connection means connect said pedal to said potentiometer actuator arm of o said pedal input device.
16. The pedal assembly as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising: a second pedal configured for displacement in response to a second applied force; and second connection means being configured to connect said second pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.
17. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 16 wherein said second pedal is pivotally mounted on said frame.
18. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 16 wherein said second pedal is slidably mounted on said frame.
19. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18 further comprising second restoring means, said second restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said second pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement in response to o said applied force.
20. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19 wherein said second pedal comprises a pedal head and an engaging arm, said engaging arm being configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.
21. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 7 wherein a feel of said pedal, experienced by a user, is adjustable by adjustment of any one or a combination of the following: a relative distance between said engaging arm and said at least one compressible stop; À a relative positioning of said at least one compressible stop relative to a length of said engaging arm; an orientation alignment of said at least one compressible stop relative to an axis along a length of said engaging arm; À a composition of said at least one compressible stop; a shape of at least one compressible stop; À a size of at least one compressible stop; À a multiplicity of said at least one compressible stop; À a size of said engaging arm; À a shape of said engaging arm; À a shape and size of a leading edge of said engaging arm.
22. A pedal assembly configured for use with a computer entity pedal input device being operable with a vehicle control simulation computer programme, said input device comprising a first and second potentiometer and a first and second potentiometer actuator arm, said pedal assembly comprising: a first pedal configured for displacement in response to a first applied force; a second pedal configured for displacement in response to a second applied force; first connection means being configured to connect said first pedal to said computer entity pedal input device; and second connection means being configured to connect said second pedal to said computer entity pedal input device.
23. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 22 further comprising a frame, said first and second pedal and said pedal input device being mounted on said frame.
24. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 23 wherein said first and second pedal are pivotally mounted on said frame.
25. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 23 wherein said first and s second pedal are slidably mounted on said frame.
26. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25 further comprising: go first restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said first pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement of said first pedal in response to said first applied force; and second restoring means, said second restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said second pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to said displacement of said second pedal in response to said second applied force.
27. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 26 o further comprising at least on compressible stop being configured for engagement by said first or second pedal in response to said first or second applied force.
28. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 27 wherein said first and second pedal each comprise a pedal head and an engaging arm, said engaging arm being configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.
29. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 28 wherein said first pedal is operable as a brake pedal within a driving simulation computer programme and said second pedal is operable as an accelerator pedal within a driving simulation computer programme.
30. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 29 wherein said engaging arm of said brake pedal is configured to engage said compressible stop in response to said applied force.

s
31. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 30 wherein said connection means comprises a cable.
32. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 31 further comprising a third pedal configured for displacement in response to a third go applied force; and third connection means being configured to connect said third pedal to said computer entity input device.
33. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 32 wherein said first connection means connects said first pedal to a first potentiometer of said pedal input device and said second connection means connects said second pedal to a second potentiometer of said pedal input device.
34. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 32 wherein said third connection means connects said third pedal to a third potentiometer of said pedal o input device.
35. The pedal assembly as claimed in claims 33 and 34 wherein said pedal input device further comprises a third potentiometer actuator arm wherein first connection means connects said first pedal to said first potentiometer actuator arm, said second connection means connects said second pedal to said second potentiometer actuator arm and said third connection means connects said third pedal to said third potentiometer actuator arm.
36. A pedal assembly being configured for use with a computer programme pedal input device, said input device comprising a first and second potentiometer, said pedal assembly comprising: a first pedal configured for displacement in response to a first applied force, said first pedal comprising a pedal head and an engaging arm; s a second pedal configured for displacement in response to a second applied force, said second pedal comprising a pedal head and an engaging arm; a frame configurable to mount said input device and said first and second pedal; first connection means being configured to connect said first pedal to said first potentiometer of said input device; second connection means being configured to connect said second pedal to said second potentiometer of said pedal device; and at least one compressible stop positioned substantially opposed to said engaging arm of said first pedal, said at least one compressible stop being configured for engagement by said engaging arm of said first pedal in response o to said first applied force.
37. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 36 further comprising first restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said first pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to displacement of said first pedal in response to said first applied force; and second restoring means being configured to effect a return displacement of said second pedal, said return displacement being substantially opposed to a displacement of said second pedal in response to said second applied force.

To
38. The pedal assembly as claimed in claim 37 wherein said first and second restoring means are adjustable.
39. The pedal assembly as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 38 further comprising a third pedal, wherein a feel of said first and said third pedal, s experienced by a user, is adjustable by adjustment of any one or a combination of the following: a relative distance between said engaging arm and said at least one compressible stop; À a relative positioning of said at least one compressible stop relative to a length of said engaging arm; an orientation alignment of said at least one compressible stop relative s to an axis along a length of said engaging arm; a composition of said at least one compressible stop; a shape of at least one compressible stop; a size of at least one compressible stop; À a multiplicity of said at least one compressible stop; À a size of said engaging arm; a shape of said engaging arm; a shape and size of a leading edge of said engaging arm.