CA2226686C - Dual pedal mounting structure - Google Patents
Dual pedal mounting structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2226686C CA2226686C CA002226686A CA2226686A CA2226686C CA 2226686 C CA2226686 C CA 2226686C CA 002226686 A CA002226686 A CA 002226686A CA 2226686 A CA2226686 A CA 2226686A CA 2226686 C CA2226686 C CA 2226686C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- reverse
- pedal
- shaft
- arm
- primary shaft
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
- G05G1/00—Controlling members, e.g. knobs or handles; Assemblies or arrangements thereof; Indicating position of controlling members
- G05G1/30—Controlling members actuated by foot
- G05G1/305—Compound pedal co-operating with two or more controlled members
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K23/00—Arrangement or mounting of control devices for vehicle transmissions, or parts thereof, not otherwise provided for
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
- G05G1/00—Controlling members, e.g. knobs or handles; Assemblies or arrangements thereof; Indicating position of controlling members
- G05G1/30—Controlling members actuated by foot
- G05G1/36—Mounting units comprising an assembly of two or more pedals, e.g. for facilitating mounting
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K20/00—Arrangement or mounting of change-speed gearing control devices in vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K26/00—Arrangements or mounting of propulsion unit control devices in vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO ASPECTS CROSS-CUTTING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
- B60Y2200/00—Type of vehicle
- B60Y2200/20—Off-Road Vehicles
- B60Y2200/22—Agricultural vehicles
- B60Y2200/223—Ridable lawn mowers
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20012—Multiple controlled elements
- Y10T74/20018—Transmission control
- Y10T74/20055—Foot operated
- Y10T74/20061—Multiple foot-operated controls
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20012—Multiple controlled elements
- Y10T74/20189—Foot operated
Abstract
A mechanism for mounting a forward pedal and a reverse pedal to a vehicle. The forward pedal is fixed to a primary shaft, and the reverse pedal is fixed to a secondary shaft.
A control arm and control rod operatively extend between the primary shaft and atransmission. A linkage extends between the reverse pedal and the primary shaft for pivoting the primary shaft and shifting the control rod in reverse directions such that the transmission shifts to reverse modes when the operator engages the reverse pedal. The linkage includes a reverse arm coupled with the primary shaft, and a reverse link extending between the reverse arm and the reverse pedal. A bracket member fixed to a floor plate of the vehicle supports the primary and secondary shafts, and is fixed to the vehicle generally directly beneath the foot of the operator. The bracket member supports each shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance. Mating shapes are defined between the reverse arm and the primary shaft for fixing the primary shaft for rotation with the reverse arm. Mating shapes are also defined between the reverse shaft and reverse pedal for transmitting pivotal motion therebetween. The reverse link is confined in engagement with the reverse pedal and the reverse arm by abutment with the bracket member.
A control arm and control rod operatively extend between the primary shaft and atransmission. A linkage extends between the reverse pedal and the primary shaft for pivoting the primary shaft and shifting the control rod in reverse directions such that the transmission shifts to reverse modes when the operator engages the reverse pedal. The linkage includes a reverse arm coupled with the primary shaft, and a reverse link extending between the reverse arm and the reverse pedal. A bracket member fixed to a floor plate of the vehicle supports the primary and secondary shafts, and is fixed to the vehicle generally directly beneath the foot of the operator. The bracket member supports each shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance. Mating shapes are defined between the reverse arm and the primary shaft for fixing the primary shaft for rotation with the reverse arm. Mating shapes are also defined between the reverse shaft and reverse pedal for transmitting pivotal motion therebetween. The reverse link is confined in engagement with the reverse pedal and the reverse arm by abutment with the bracket member.
Description
DUALPEDALMOUNTINGSTRUCTURE
Back~round of the Invention The present invention relates to the mounting structures which couple forward and reverse pedals to working vehicles such as lawn mowers.
It is known to provide working vehicles such as lawn mowers with hydroslalic transmissions that provide infinite speed adjustments in both forward and reverse modes of operation. Some such work vehicles include a forward pedal that the operator presses to 10 initiate forward travel and to control the forward speed of the vehicle. These vehicles typically also provide a reverse pedal that the operator can press to initiate travel in the reverse direction and to control the speed of the vehicle in reverse. The forward and reverse pedals are typically mounted to shafts that are pivotally supported by the frame of the vehicle. The vehicle frame is typically not positioned proximate to the operator's foot 15 during operation, and therefore the shafts typically extend a substantial distance outwardly from the frame structure in cantilevered fashion. This generally requires that the shafts be supported within the frame structure by substanlial attachment hardware or bearing devices that are capable of v.;Ll,sland the loads imparted to the cantilevered shafts during operation.
The shafts, attachment hardware and bearing devices of these cantilevered devices must 20 be designed such that they provide a rigid structure that creates a solid feel for the operator during operation. Some prior art dual pedal mechanisms include cam surfaces and bearings designed to operatively shift the transmission to reverse modes when the reverse pedal is pressed by the operator. Typical two pedal mechanisms therefore tend to include a relatively large number of relatively costly parts.
It would therefore be desirable to provide a two pedal device operative to control a hydrostatic transmission of a working vehicle such as a lawn mower which is simple in construction and relatively inexpensive to manufacture. It would be desirable for such a mechanism to be comprised of relatively few and inexpensive parts that facilitate quick assembly and that establishes a solid feel for the operator during operation.
Summary of the Invention According to the present invention, a mechanism for mounting a forward pedal and a reverse pedal to a vehicle is provided. The forward pedal is fixed as by welds to a primary 35 shaft which is supported by a pivot bracket. A control arm is also fixed as by welds to the primary shaft, and is operatively coupled with a hydrostatic transmission by way of a control rod. As the operator presses the forward pedal, the primary shaft and control arm pivot therewith causing the rod to shift forwardly and the transmission to shift to a forward mode.
A reverse pedal is fixed with a secondary shaft spaced forwardly from the primary shaft.
The secondary shaft is linked to the primary shaft by way of a reverse link and reverse arm.
As the operator presses the reverse pedal the secondary shaft pivots therewith, causing the reverse link and reverse arm to pivot the primary shaft in the opposite direction. This causes the control rod to shift rearwardly for shifting the transmission to a reverse operating mode. The pivot bracket supports both the primary and secondary shafts in spaced relation to each other. The pivot bracket is positioned generally directly beneath the foot of the 10 operator during operation, and therefore the shafts are not required to be supported in cantilevered fashion from the vehicle frame.
The pivot bracket supports the primary shaft at two locations substantially spaced from each other to thereby effectively and efficiently rigidly support the primary shaft during operation. Similarly, the pivot bracket also supports the secondary shaft at two location 15 sustantially spaced from each other to thereby effectively and effficiently rigidly support the secondary shaft during operation. The loads imparted to the shafts are effectively resisted by the laterally spaced locations at which the pivot bracket supports the shafts.
The mounting mechanism according to the present invention includes various partshaving mating shapes which serve to transmit pivotal motion. These attaching means serve 20 to eliminate the need for costly weldments and generally reduce the cost of manufacturing.
Since the heat of the welding process is not experienced by the assembly, plastic bearing sleeves which would otherwise melt or deform under the heat of nearby welding can be used. These plastic bearing sleeves are relatively inexpensive and help lower the overall cost of the pedal mounting mechanism.
The part count is reduced by the reverse link according to the present invention. The reverse link is generally U-shaped and is held or confined within openings in the reverse pedal and the reverse arm by abutment with the pivot bracket. Additional attaching hardware is therefore not required, and the overall part count is reduced. Manufacturing is also simplified by the elimination of attachment hardware that must be assembled to the 30 mechanism.
The pivot bracket according to the present invention mounts directly to the underside of a floor plate or fenderdeck of the vehicle. The mounting mechanism according to the present invention can be subassembled and mounted to the floor plate in such a manner that assembly and manufacturing costs are generally reduced.
Brief DescriPtion of the Drawin~s FIG. 1 is a partial top view of the pedal mounting mechanism according to the present invention shown with the forward pedal pressed to a forward operating mode, and with the floor plate not shown.
FIG. 2is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism shown with the forward pedal pressed to a forward operating mode.
FIG. 3 is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism shown in the neutral mode with the operator's foot disengaged from forward and reverse pedals.
FIG. 4 is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism shown with the operator's foot pressing the reverse pedal to a reverse operating mode.
Figure 5is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism according to the present 15 invention with nuts removed for showing the mating shapes between the primary shaft and the reverse arm, and the mating shapes between the secondary shaft and the reverse pedal.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to FIGS.1 - 4, there is shown the dual foot pedal linkage mechanism 20 10 according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. A lawn tractor vehicle includes a frame (not shown) and a fender deck or foot platform 12 mounted therewith. An operator sits on a seat during operation such that his foot is supported by the foot platform 12. A pair of pedals 14 and 16 extend upwardly through the floor platform 12 and are engag~'E by the operator's foot for controlling the forward or rearward movement of the 25 vehicle.
The pedals 14 and 16 and linkage 10 are adapted for controlling the forward movement of the vehicle. The forward foot pedal 14 extends upwardly through a slot in the floor platform 12 and is rigidly fixed for pivotal movement with a primary shaft 18. A control arm 20 is also fixed with the forward pedal 14 for pivotal motion about the axis defined by 30 the primary shaft 18. A control rod 22 pivotally extends between the control arm 20 and a transmission arm 24 which is mounted to a hydrostatic transmission input shaft 26. As the operator presses the forward pedal 14 from the neutral position shown in Figure 3, the primary shaft 18 and control arm 20 pivot therewith, causing the control rod 22 and transmission arm 24 to shift to the right to the position shown in Figure 2 such that the transmission 28 is shifted to a forward mode. As the operator presses the forward pedal 14 further, the transmission 28 is shifted to faster forward speeds.
The linkage 10 is also adapted for controlling the rearward movement of the vehicle.
5 The reverse pedal 16 extends upwardly through a slot in the foot platform 12 for engagement by the operator. The reverse pedal 16 is fixed for pivotal motion with a secondary shaft 30 spaced forwardly from the primary shaft 18. Mating shapes 32, as best seen in Figure 5, include flatted portions defined between the reverse pedal 16 and the secondary shaft 30 such that the reverse pedal 16 and secondary shaft 30 are fixed for 10 transmitting rotational motion therebetween. A reverse link 34 is positioned within openings 36 formed in the reverse pedal 16 and a reverse arm 38. The reverse arm 38 is fixed with the primary shaft 18 by way of mating shapes 40 and a nut 54. As the operator pressed the reverse pedal 16 with his foot the secondary shaft 30 pivots with the reverse pedal 16 to a position shown in Figure 4. The reverse link 34 shifts in response to pivoting of the reverse pedal 16, causing the reverse arm 38, primary shaft 18 and control arm 22 to pivot in a counterclockwise direction from its neutral position to the position shown in Figure 4. This causes the control rod 22 to be pressed to the left from the neutral position shown in Figure 3 to the position shown in Figure 4, which shifts the transmission arm 24 and transmission 28 to reverse driving modes. As the operator presses the reverse pedal 16 further, the 20 transmission 28 will be shifted to higher reverse speeds.
A pivot bracket 44 is provided by the present invention for pivotally supporting the primary and secondary shafts 18 and 30 during operation. The pivot bracket 44 also supports the forward and reverse pedals 14 and 16, since the pedals 14 and 16 are supported by the shafts 18 and 30. The pivot bracket 44 is bolted beneath the foot platform 25 12 which is mounted with the frame of the vehicle. The pivot bracket 44 supports the shafts 18 and 30 at laterally spaced locations 46 and 48 such that the shafts 18 and 30 are held firmly in place to effectively and efficiently resist forces encountered during operation. The pivot bracket 44 is located directly beneath the foot of the operator, and therefore supports the primary and secondary shafts 18 and 30 directly beneath the operator's foot without 30 requiring the shafts 18 and 30 to be supported in cantilevered fashion from the vehicle frame, which would require more sturdy and costly attachment hardware. By positioning the pivot bracket 44 directly beneath the operator's foot according to the present invention, the pedals 14 and 16 are firmly supported during vehicle operation by a simple structure that is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.
The reverse link 34 is pivotally coupled with the reverse pedal 16 and the reverse arm 38 without any attaching hardware. The reverse link 34 is a generally U-shaped rod member that is confined within the openings 36 in the reverse pedal 16 and the reverse arm 38 by the presence of the pivot bracket 44. The pivot bracket 44 prevents the reverse link 34 from coming out of the openings 36 in the reverse pedal 16 and reverse arm 38. No attaching hardware is required, and therefore the part count is reduced, as well as assembly time and complexity.
Next, the assembly of the linkage 10 according to the present invention will be 10 discussed. The forward pedal 14, control arm 22 and primary shaft 18 are first welded together. Bearings 50 such as plastic bearing sleeves are positioned in the openings 52 of the pivot bracket 44 that will receive the primary and secondary shafts 18 and 30. The primary shaft 18 is then positioned within the appropriate bearings 50. The reverse arm 38 is then slid onto the end of the primary shaft 18 such that the mating shapes 40 engage one 15 another. A nut 54 is then threaded onto the end portion of the primary shaft 18. The reverse link 34 is then positioned within the opening 36 in the reverse arm 38. The secondary shaft 30 is positioned in the appropriate bearings 50. The pivot bracket 44 and parts coupled thereto are then mounted as a subassembly to the underside of the foot platform 12 by way of bolts 56. To attach the pivot bracket 44 to the foot platform 12, the 20 assembler must insert the forward pedal 14 upwardly through a slot in the floor platform 12.
The reverse pedal 16 is then inserted downwardly through a slot in the floor platform 12 and positioned on the end of the secondary shaft 30 such that the mating shapes 32 engage one another. As the reverse pedal 16 is placed on the secondary shaft 30, the reverse link 34 is fed into its opening 36 in the reverse pedal 16. A nut 58 is then threaded onto the end 25 portion of the secondary shaft 30 for confining the reverse pedal 16 in place on the end of the secondary shaft 30. The control rod 22 attached to the transmission arm 24 can then be coupled with the control arm 20 such that the pedals 14 and 16 will control the transmission 28 during operation of the lawn vehicle.
The subassembly referred to above can be assembled separately and in advance of 30 the final assembly process. The subassembly according to the present invention therefore allows the mechanism to be assembled easily, quickly and inexpensively. The use of mating shapes throughout the linkage eliminates the need for welds which are costly and might damage or melt plastic bearings 50. Plastic bearings 50 are advantageous because they are relatively inexpensive and are easily installed. The use of mating shapes 32 and 40 and nuts 54 and 58 according to the present invention generally helps reduce the overall manufacturing cost of the device.
The preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a secondary shaft 30 5 which extends a substantial distance laterally for being supported at laterally spaced locations by the pivot bracket 44. However, a short stub shaft or bushing could also support the reverse pedal 16 within the pivot bracket 44 within the scope of the present invention.
Back~round of the Invention The present invention relates to the mounting structures which couple forward and reverse pedals to working vehicles such as lawn mowers.
It is known to provide working vehicles such as lawn mowers with hydroslalic transmissions that provide infinite speed adjustments in both forward and reverse modes of operation. Some such work vehicles include a forward pedal that the operator presses to 10 initiate forward travel and to control the forward speed of the vehicle. These vehicles typically also provide a reverse pedal that the operator can press to initiate travel in the reverse direction and to control the speed of the vehicle in reverse. The forward and reverse pedals are typically mounted to shafts that are pivotally supported by the frame of the vehicle. The vehicle frame is typically not positioned proximate to the operator's foot 15 during operation, and therefore the shafts typically extend a substantial distance outwardly from the frame structure in cantilevered fashion. This generally requires that the shafts be supported within the frame structure by substanlial attachment hardware or bearing devices that are capable of v.;Ll,sland the loads imparted to the cantilevered shafts during operation.
The shafts, attachment hardware and bearing devices of these cantilevered devices must 20 be designed such that they provide a rigid structure that creates a solid feel for the operator during operation. Some prior art dual pedal mechanisms include cam surfaces and bearings designed to operatively shift the transmission to reverse modes when the reverse pedal is pressed by the operator. Typical two pedal mechanisms therefore tend to include a relatively large number of relatively costly parts.
It would therefore be desirable to provide a two pedal device operative to control a hydrostatic transmission of a working vehicle such as a lawn mower which is simple in construction and relatively inexpensive to manufacture. It would be desirable for such a mechanism to be comprised of relatively few and inexpensive parts that facilitate quick assembly and that establishes a solid feel for the operator during operation.
Summary of the Invention According to the present invention, a mechanism for mounting a forward pedal and a reverse pedal to a vehicle is provided. The forward pedal is fixed as by welds to a primary 35 shaft which is supported by a pivot bracket. A control arm is also fixed as by welds to the primary shaft, and is operatively coupled with a hydrostatic transmission by way of a control rod. As the operator presses the forward pedal, the primary shaft and control arm pivot therewith causing the rod to shift forwardly and the transmission to shift to a forward mode.
A reverse pedal is fixed with a secondary shaft spaced forwardly from the primary shaft.
The secondary shaft is linked to the primary shaft by way of a reverse link and reverse arm.
As the operator presses the reverse pedal the secondary shaft pivots therewith, causing the reverse link and reverse arm to pivot the primary shaft in the opposite direction. This causes the control rod to shift rearwardly for shifting the transmission to a reverse operating mode. The pivot bracket supports both the primary and secondary shafts in spaced relation to each other. The pivot bracket is positioned generally directly beneath the foot of the 10 operator during operation, and therefore the shafts are not required to be supported in cantilevered fashion from the vehicle frame.
The pivot bracket supports the primary shaft at two locations substantially spaced from each other to thereby effectively and efficiently rigidly support the primary shaft during operation. Similarly, the pivot bracket also supports the secondary shaft at two location 15 sustantially spaced from each other to thereby effectively and effficiently rigidly support the secondary shaft during operation. The loads imparted to the shafts are effectively resisted by the laterally spaced locations at which the pivot bracket supports the shafts.
The mounting mechanism according to the present invention includes various partshaving mating shapes which serve to transmit pivotal motion. These attaching means serve 20 to eliminate the need for costly weldments and generally reduce the cost of manufacturing.
Since the heat of the welding process is not experienced by the assembly, plastic bearing sleeves which would otherwise melt or deform under the heat of nearby welding can be used. These plastic bearing sleeves are relatively inexpensive and help lower the overall cost of the pedal mounting mechanism.
The part count is reduced by the reverse link according to the present invention. The reverse link is generally U-shaped and is held or confined within openings in the reverse pedal and the reverse arm by abutment with the pivot bracket. Additional attaching hardware is therefore not required, and the overall part count is reduced. Manufacturing is also simplified by the elimination of attachment hardware that must be assembled to the 30 mechanism.
The pivot bracket according to the present invention mounts directly to the underside of a floor plate or fenderdeck of the vehicle. The mounting mechanism according to the present invention can be subassembled and mounted to the floor plate in such a manner that assembly and manufacturing costs are generally reduced.
Brief DescriPtion of the Drawin~s FIG. 1 is a partial top view of the pedal mounting mechanism according to the present invention shown with the forward pedal pressed to a forward operating mode, and with the floor plate not shown.
FIG. 2is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism shown with the forward pedal pressed to a forward operating mode.
FIG. 3 is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism shown in the neutral mode with the operator's foot disengaged from forward and reverse pedals.
FIG. 4 is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism shown with the operator's foot pressing the reverse pedal to a reverse operating mode.
Figure 5is a side view of the pedal mounting mechanism according to the present 15 invention with nuts removed for showing the mating shapes between the primary shaft and the reverse arm, and the mating shapes between the secondary shaft and the reverse pedal.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to FIGS.1 - 4, there is shown the dual foot pedal linkage mechanism 20 10 according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. A lawn tractor vehicle includes a frame (not shown) and a fender deck or foot platform 12 mounted therewith. An operator sits on a seat during operation such that his foot is supported by the foot platform 12. A pair of pedals 14 and 16 extend upwardly through the floor platform 12 and are engag~'E by the operator's foot for controlling the forward or rearward movement of the 25 vehicle.
The pedals 14 and 16 and linkage 10 are adapted for controlling the forward movement of the vehicle. The forward foot pedal 14 extends upwardly through a slot in the floor platform 12 and is rigidly fixed for pivotal movement with a primary shaft 18. A control arm 20 is also fixed with the forward pedal 14 for pivotal motion about the axis defined by 30 the primary shaft 18. A control rod 22 pivotally extends between the control arm 20 and a transmission arm 24 which is mounted to a hydrostatic transmission input shaft 26. As the operator presses the forward pedal 14 from the neutral position shown in Figure 3, the primary shaft 18 and control arm 20 pivot therewith, causing the control rod 22 and transmission arm 24 to shift to the right to the position shown in Figure 2 such that the transmission 28 is shifted to a forward mode. As the operator presses the forward pedal 14 further, the transmission 28 is shifted to faster forward speeds.
The linkage 10 is also adapted for controlling the rearward movement of the vehicle.
5 The reverse pedal 16 extends upwardly through a slot in the foot platform 12 for engagement by the operator. The reverse pedal 16 is fixed for pivotal motion with a secondary shaft 30 spaced forwardly from the primary shaft 18. Mating shapes 32, as best seen in Figure 5, include flatted portions defined between the reverse pedal 16 and the secondary shaft 30 such that the reverse pedal 16 and secondary shaft 30 are fixed for 10 transmitting rotational motion therebetween. A reverse link 34 is positioned within openings 36 formed in the reverse pedal 16 and a reverse arm 38. The reverse arm 38 is fixed with the primary shaft 18 by way of mating shapes 40 and a nut 54. As the operator pressed the reverse pedal 16 with his foot the secondary shaft 30 pivots with the reverse pedal 16 to a position shown in Figure 4. The reverse link 34 shifts in response to pivoting of the reverse pedal 16, causing the reverse arm 38, primary shaft 18 and control arm 22 to pivot in a counterclockwise direction from its neutral position to the position shown in Figure 4. This causes the control rod 22 to be pressed to the left from the neutral position shown in Figure 3 to the position shown in Figure 4, which shifts the transmission arm 24 and transmission 28 to reverse driving modes. As the operator presses the reverse pedal 16 further, the 20 transmission 28 will be shifted to higher reverse speeds.
A pivot bracket 44 is provided by the present invention for pivotally supporting the primary and secondary shafts 18 and 30 during operation. The pivot bracket 44 also supports the forward and reverse pedals 14 and 16, since the pedals 14 and 16 are supported by the shafts 18 and 30. The pivot bracket 44 is bolted beneath the foot platform 25 12 which is mounted with the frame of the vehicle. The pivot bracket 44 supports the shafts 18 and 30 at laterally spaced locations 46 and 48 such that the shafts 18 and 30 are held firmly in place to effectively and efficiently resist forces encountered during operation. The pivot bracket 44 is located directly beneath the foot of the operator, and therefore supports the primary and secondary shafts 18 and 30 directly beneath the operator's foot without 30 requiring the shafts 18 and 30 to be supported in cantilevered fashion from the vehicle frame, which would require more sturdy and costly attachment hardware. By positioning the pivot bracket 44 directly beneath the operator's foot according to the present invention, the pedals 14 and 16 are firmly supported during vehicle operation by a simple structure that is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.
The reverse link 34 is pivotally coupled with the reverse pedal 16 and the reverse arm 38 without any attaching hardware. The reverse link 34 is a generally U-shaped rod member that is confined within the openings 36 in the reverse pedal 16 and the reverse arm 38 by the presence of the pivot bracket 44. The pivot bracket 44 prevents the reverse link 34 from coming out of the openings 36 in the reverse pedal 16 and reverse arm 38. No attaching hardware is required, and therefore the part count is reduced, as well as assembly time and complexity.
Next, the assembly of the linkage 10 according to the present invention will be 10 discussed. The forward pedal 14, control arm 22 and primary shaft 18 are first welded together. Bearings 50 such as plastic bearing sleeves are positioned in the openings 52 of the pivot bracket 44 that will receive the primary and secondary shafts 18 and 30. The primary shaft 18 is then positioned within the appropriate bearings 50. The reverse arm 38 is then slid onto the end of the primary shaft 18 such that the mating shapes 40 engage one 15 another. A nut 54 is then threaded onto the end portion of the primary shaft 18. The reverse link 34 is then positioned within the opening 36 in the reverse arm 38. The secondary shaft 30 is positioned in the appropriate bearings 50. The pivot bracket 44 and parts coupled thereto are then mounted as a subassembly to the underside of the foot platform 12 by way of bolts 56. To attach the pivot bracket 44 to the foot platform 12, the 20 assembler must insert the forward pedal 14 upwardly through a slot in the floor platform 12.
The reverse pedal 16 is then inserted downwardly through a slot in the floor platform 12 and positioned on the end of the secondary shaft 30 such that the mating shapes 32 engage one another. As the reverse pedal 16 is placed on the secondary shaft 30, the reverse link 34 is fed into its opening 36 in the reverse pedal 16. A nut 58 is then threaded onto the end 25 portion of the secondary shaft 30 for confining the reverse pedal 16 in place on the end of the secondary shaft 30. The control rod 22 attached to the transmission arm 24 can then be coupled with the control arm 20 such that the pedals 14 and 16 will control the transmission 28 during operation of the lawn vehicle.
The subassembly referred to above can be assembled separately and in advance of 30 the final assembly process. The subassembly according to the present invention therefore allows the mechanism to be assembled easily, quickly and inexpensively. The use of mating shapes throughout the linkage eliminates the need for welds which are costly and might damage or melt plastic bearings 50. Plastic bearings 50 are advantageous because they are relatively inexpensive and are easily installed. The use of mating shapes 32 and 40 and nuts 54 and 58 according to the present invention generally helps reduce the overall manufacturing cost of the device.
The preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a secondary shaft 30 5 which extends a substantial distance laterally for being supported at laterally spaced locations by the pivot bracket 44. However, a short stub shaft or bushing could also support the reverse pedal 16 within the pivot bracket 44 within the scope of the present invention.
Claims (22)
1. A mechanism for mounting a forward pedal and a reverse pedal to a vehicle, said pedals being adapted to pivot in the same direction when engaged by an operator, said mechanism comprising:
a primary shaft to which the forward pedal is fixed, a secondary shaft to which the reverse pedal is fixed, said secondary shaft being spaced from the primary shaft, a control arm fixed with the primary shaft, a control rod coupled with the control arm and also operatively coupled with a transmission, said control rod being shiftable in a first direction for shifting the transmission to forward modes as the operator engages the forward pedal, a linkage operatively extending between the reverse pedal and the primary shaft for pivoting the primary shaft and shifting the control rod in a second direction when the operator engages the reverse pedal such that the transmission shifts to reverse modes, a bracket member which operatively supports the primary and secondary shafts, said bracket is fixed to the vehicle generally directly beneath the foot of the operator as the operator engages the forward or reverse pedals.
a primary shaft to which the forward pedal is fixed, a secondary shaft to which the reverse pedal is fixed, said secondary shaft being spaced from the primary shaft, a control arm fixed with the primary shaft, a control rod coupled with the control arm and also operatively coupled with a transmission, said control rod being shiftable in a first direction for shifting the transmission to forward modes as the operator engages the forward pedal, a linkage operatively extending between the reverse pedal and the primary shaft for pivoting the primary shaft and shifting the control rod in a second direction when the operator engages the reverse pedal such that the transmission shifts to reverse modes, a bracket member which operatively supports the primary and secondary shafts, said bracket is fixed to the vehicle generally directly beneath the foot of the operator as the operator engages the forward or reverse pedals.
2. The invention of claim 1, wherein said bracket member is fixed to a floor plate member of the vehicle.
3. The invention of claim 1, wherein said bracket member supports the primary shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance.
4. The invention of claim 1, wherein said bracket member supports the secondary shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance.
5. The invention of claim 1, wherein said linkage further comprises a reverse arm coupled with the primary shaft, a reverse link operatively extending between the reverse arm and the reverse pedal for transmitting motion of the reverse pedal through the reverse link, reverse arm, primary shaft, control arm and control rod when the operator engages the reverse pedal.
6. The invention of claim 4, wherein mating shapes are defined between the reverse arm and the primary shaft, and said mating shapes fix the primary shaft for pivotal motion with the reverse arm.
7. The invention of claim 1, wherein said transmission is hydrostatic.
8. The invention of claim 5, wherein said reverse link is confined in engagement with the reverse pedal and the reverse arm by abutment with the bracket member.
9. The invention of claim 8, wherein said reverse link is generally U-shaped.
10. The invention of claim 1, wherein bearings are received by the bracket member for rotatively supporting the primary and secondary shafts.
11. A mechanism for mounting a forward pedal and a reverse pedal to a vehicle, said pedals being adapted to pivot in the same direction when engaged by an operator, said mechanism comprising:
a primary shaft to which the forward pedal is fixed, a secondary shaft to which the reverse pedal is fixed, said secondary shaft being spaced from the primary shaft, a control arm fixed with the primary shaft, a control rod coupled with the control arm and also operatively coupled with a transmission, said control rod being shiftable in a first direction for shifting the transmission to a forward modes as the operator engages the forward pedal, a linkage operatively extending between the reverse pedal and the primary shaft for pivoting the primary shaft and shifting the control rod in a second direction when the operator engages the reverse pedal such that the transmission shifts to reverse modes, said linkage further comprises a reverse arm coupled with the primary shaft, a reverse link operatively extending between the reverse arm and the reverse pedal for transmitting motion of the reverse pedal through the reverse link, reverse arm, primary shaft, control arm and control rod when the operator engages the reverse pedal, a bracket member which operatively supports the primary and secondary shafts, said bracket fixed to the vehicle generally directly beneath the foot of the operator as the operator engages the forward or reverse pedals, said bracket member supports the primary shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance
a primary shaft to which the forward pedal is fixed, a secondary shaft to which the reverse pedal is fixed, said secondary shaft being spaced from the primary shaft, a control arm fixed with the primary shaft, a control rod coupled with the control arm and also operatively coupled with a transmission, said control rod being shiftable in a first direction for shifting the transmission to a forward modes as the operator engages the forward pedal, a linkage operatively extending between the reverse pedal and the primary shaft for pivoting the primary shaft and shifting the control rod in a second direction when the operator engages the reverse pedal such that the transmission shifts to reverse modes, said linkage further comprises a reverse arm coupled with the primary shaft, a reverse link operatively extending between the reverse arm and the reverse pedal for transmitting motion of the reverse pedal through the reverse link, reverse arm, primary shaft, control arm and control rod when the operator engages the reverse pedal, a bracket member which operatively supports the primary and secondary shafts, said bracket fixed to the vehicle generally directly beneath the foot of the operator as the operator engages the forward or reverse pedals, said bracket member supports the primary shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance
12. The invention of claim 11, wherein said bracket member also supports the secondary shaft at at least two locations laterally spaced a substantial distance.
13. The invention of claim 12, wherein said bracket member is fixed to a floor plate member of the vehicle
14. The invention of claim 13, wherein mating shapes are defined between the reverse arm and the primary shaft, and said mating shapes fix the primary shaft for pivotal motion with the reverse arm.
15. The invention of claim 14, wherein mating shapes are defined between the reverse pedal and the secondary shaft, and said mating shapes fix the secondary shaft for pivotal motion with the reverse pedal.
16. The invention of claim 15, wherein said reverse link further is confined in engagement with the reverse pedal and the reverse arm by abutment with the bracket member.
17. The invention of claim 16, wherein said reverse link is generally U-shaped.
18. The invention of claim 17, wherein bearings are received by the bracket member for rotatively supporting the primary and secondary shafts.
19. The invention of claim 18, wherein said transmission is hydrostatic.
20. The invention of claim 1, wherein mating shapes are defined between the reverse pedal and the secondary shaft, and said mating shapes fix the secondary shaft for pivotal motion with the reverse pedal.
21. The invention of claim 5, wherein mating shapes are defined between the reverse pedal and the secondary shaft, and said mating shapes fix the secondary shaft for pivotal motion with the reverse pedal.
22. The invention of claim 6, wherein mating shapes are defined between the reverse pedal and the secondary shaft, and said mating shapes fix the secondary shaft for pivotal motion with the reverse pedal.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/820,211 US5842378A (en) | 1997-03-18 | 1997-03-18 | Dual pedal mounting structure |
| US08/820,211 | 1997-03-18 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2226686A1 CA2226686A1 (en) | 1998-09-18 |
| CA2226686C true CA2226686C (en) | 2001-08-07 |
Family
ID=25230197
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002226686A Expired - Fee Related CA2226686C (en) | 1997-03-18 | 1998-02-16 | Dual pedal mounting structure |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5842378A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0865956B1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU733135B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2226686C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE59804479D1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (27)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6554085B2 (en) | 1998-03-12 | 2003-04-29 | Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Multi-wheel vehicle with transmission for driving-steering |
| JP4125435B2 (en) | 1998-12-03 | 2008-07-30 | 株式会社 神崎高級工機製作所 | Traveling vehicle |
| US6629577B1 (en) | 1998-07-02 | 2003-10-07 | Tuff Torq Corporation | Driving apparatus for speed changing and steering of a vehicle |
| US6126564A (en) | 1998-07-08 | 2000-10-03 | Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Axle driving apparatus |
| US6540633B1 (en) | 1998-09-25 | 2003-04-01 | Tuff Torq Corporation | Transmission for speed changing and steering of a vehicle |
| US6951259B2 (en) | 1998-12-03 | 2005-10-04 | Koji Irikura | Multi-wheel vehicle |
| US6397966B1 (en) | 1999-01-22 | 2002-06-04 | Kanzaki Kokyukoki, Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Vehicle improved in steering |
| US6312354B1 (en) | 1999-01-22 | 2001-11-06 | Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Integral hydrostatic transaxle apparatus for driving and steering |
| US6547685B2 (en) | 1999-01-22 | 2003-04-15 | Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Transaxle apparatus |
| US6354388B1 (en) | 1999-03-26 | 2002-03-12 | Deere & Company | Drive and steer vehicle |
| US6257357B1 (en) | 1999-03-26 | 2001-07-10 | Deere & Company | Steering device for drive and steer transmission |
| US6283236B1 (en) | 1999-03-26 | 2001-09-04 | Deere & Company | Effective gear reduction in lawn tractor transmission |
| US6454032B1 (en) | 1999-03-26 | 2002-09-24 | Deere & Company | Lawn tractor vehicle |
| US6129164A (en) | 1999-03-26 | 2000-10-10 | Deere & Company | Mechanism for correct steering in reverse |
| US6237711B1 (en) | 1999-07-20 | 2001-05-29 | Deere & Company | Transmission control linkage for foot to hand control conversion |
| US6279937B1 (en) | 1999-07-20 | 2001-08-28 | Deere & Company | Intermediate shaft plate for transmission control linkage |
| JP2001121983A (en) | 1999-10-22 | 2001-05-08 | Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg Co Ltd | Steering driving device of traveling vehicle |
| US6883633B2 (en) * | 2001-10-19 | 2005-04-26 | Graco Minnesota Inc. | Dual pedal foot control for hydrostatic drive |
| ITRE20010115A1 (en) * | 2001-11-30 | 2003-05-30 | Lodi Luigi & Figli S R L | TRANSMISSION GROUP FOR COMMANDS OF SELF-PROPELLED VEHICLES SUCH AS LIFT TRUCKS AND SIMILAR |
| JP4464777B2 (en) * | 2004-09-13 | 2010-05-19 | ヤンマー株式会社 | Shifting operation device for traveling vehicle |
| US7578117B2 (en) * | 2007-03-20 | 2009-08-25 | Mtd Products Inc | Foot actuated height adjustment mechanism for a lawnmower cutting deck |
| DE102007040541B4 (en) * | 2007-08-28 | 2014-04-30 | Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft | Pedal control for a vehicle |
| JP5434666B2 (en) * | 2010-02-24 | 2014-03-05 | 井関農機株式会社 | Work vehicle |
| US9021914B1 (en) * | 2011-07-13 | 2015-05-05 | Harold Gene Newcomb | Controls for zero turn mower |
| JP5860380B2 (en) * | 2012-10-30 | 2016-02-16 | ヤンマー株式会社 | Shift operation mechanism and work vehicle |
| US10591048B2 (en) | 2014-07-09 | 2020-03-17 | Deere & Company | Continuously variable transmission pedal control system |
| US11358635B2 (en) | 2019-08-08 | 2022-06-14 | Deere & Company | Reverse switch activation mechanism |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3691863A (en) * | 1971-04-28 | 1972-09-19 | Towmotor Corp | Control for hydrostatic transmission |
| DE2340937C2 (en) * | 1973-08-13 | 1985-04-11 | Linde Ag, 6200 Wiesbaden | Control device for a drive unit consisting of an internal combustion engine and a continuously adjustable, preferably hydrostatic transmission |
| US3910133A (en) * | 1974-06-24 | 1975-10-07 | Caterpillar Tractor Co | Control linkage for hydrostatically powered drive and steering system or the like |
| US3995510A (en) * | 1975-05-05 | 1976-12-07 | Towmotor Corporation | Control system for a hydrostatic transmission |
| US4129047A (en) * | 1977-06-29 | 1978-12-12 | Massey-Ferguson Inc. | Control arrangement |
| US4245527A (en) * | 1978-10-18 | 1981-01-20 | Towmotor Corporation | Control pedal assembly |
| US4413466A (en) * | 1982-01-01 | 1983-11-08 | Conchemco, Incorporated | Control assembly for blade clutch unit |
| US5022477A (en) * | 1986-08-27 | 1991-06-11 | Deere & Company | System and method for controlling the ground speed and enhancing the maneuverability of an off-road vehicle |
| US4883137A (en) * | 1986-08-27 | 1989-11-28 | Deere & Company | System and method for controlling the ground speed and enhancing the maneuverability of an off-road vehicle |
| US4977760A (en) * | 1987-12-15 | 1990-12-18 | Kubota, Ltd. | Speed control system for a working vehicle |
| US5048638A (en) * | 1988-09-17 | 1991-09-17 | Deere & Company | System for controlling the ground speed and direction of travel of an off-road vehicle |
| CA1325955C (en) * | 1988-09-17 | 1994-01-11 | Jerry Richard Duncan | System for controlling the ground speed and direction of travel of an off-road vehicle |
| JPH02209671A (en) * | 1989-02-07 | 1990-08-21 | Kubota Ltd | Operating structure of continuously variable speed gear for travelling |
| US5231891A (en) * | 1989-05-16 | 1993-08-03 | Kubota Corp. | Double pedal mechanism for working vehicle |
| GB8926700D0 (en) * | 1989-11-25 | 1990-01-17 | Sterling Engineered Products L | Improvements relating to motor vehicles control pedals and their mountings |
| US5383376A (en) * | 1993-08-12 | 1995-01-24 | Deere & Company | Hydrostatic transmisison control structure |
-
1997
- 1997-03-18 US US08/820,211 patent/US5842378A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1998
- 1998-02-16 CA CA002226686A patent/CA2226686C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1998-03-11 EP EP98104332A patent/EP0865956B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-03-11 DE DE59804479T patent/DE59804479D1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1998-03-11 AU AU58365/98A patent/AU733135B2/en not_active Ceased
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU733135B2 (en) | 2001-05-10 |
| EP0865956B1 (en) | 2002-06-19 |
| EP0865956A2 (en) | 1998-09-23 |
| AU5836598A (en) | 1998-09-24 |
| US5842378A (en) | 1998-12-01 |
| DE59804479D1 (en) | 2002-07-25 |
| CA2226686A1 (en) | 1998-09-18 |
| EP0865956A3 (en) | 1999-09-01 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |