Abstract: A vehicle trim attachment fastener includes a base, a trim clip and a first trim alignment flange. The base has a vehicle body attachment structure. The trim clip extends outwardly away from a first end of the base and includes a plurality of attachment fingers defining a trim panel retaining area therebetween. The first trim alignment flange extends outwardly from one of the plurality of attachment fingers away from the trim panel retaining area. The first trim alignment flange defines a trim alignment aperture and is configured to align a trim panel relative to the trim clip during installation of the trim panel to the trim clip.

Abstract: A hydraulic brake system for a motor vehicle supplies pressurized brake fluid to a wheel brake in response to a demand signal. The brake system includes a master cylinder in fluid communication with the wheel brake to control the actuation thereof. Furthermore, actuation of the master cylinder is controlled and/or amplified by first and second pressure-amplifying mechanisms, which are electrically controlled by an electrical control unit.

Abstract: A brake pedal feel simulator is provided which reduces the simulation force provided to the brake pedal during emergency or failed conditions. The simulator generally comprises a first spring having a first spring rate and a second spring having a second spring rate. The second spring rate is selected to be lower than the first spring rate. When a predetermined force level is achieved at the brake pedal and simulator, the spring rate provided by the simulator shifts to the second spring rate. In this manner, the rate resistance to translation of the brake pedal is reduced, thereby improving the operator's ability to brake the vehicle.

Abstract: A brake mechanism includes a pedal arm, a beam and a cam. The pedal arm is pivotally connected to the vehicle, while the beam is interposed between the pedal arm and the input rod for transmitting force from the pedal arm to the input rod. The beam is pivotally connected to the pedal arm and rotatable relative thereto. The cam defines a cam profile, and the beam contacts the cam and follows the cam profile as the pedal arm is activated. The cam profile is shaped to adjust the position of the beam relative to the pedal arm as the pedal arm swings relative to the vehicle. In this way, a variable force ratio is provided to maintain brake pedal feel while achieving an acceptable force ratio for failed power situations. The mechanism can be designed such that the force ratio does not drop off further into the pedal travel.