Foot Operated Patents (Class 74/478)
  • Patent number: 11643162
    Abstract: A representative system includes a personal transportation device with: first and second wheels aligned along an axis; an idler wheel rearward of the axis; a platform configured to support a user in a standing position; electric motors to drive the first and second wheels; first and second hand grips fixed in position at respective locations forward of the platform; and first and second control actuators disposed, respectively, on the first and second hand grips, the first and second control actuators being operative to control rotations of the first and second wheels and configured to be actuated by corresponding thumbs of the user while hands of the user are grasping corresponding ones of the first hand grip and the second hand grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: KOOLER ICE, INC.
    Inventor: Kerry Seymour
  • Patent number: 11602990
    Abstract: An electronic pedal apparatus is configured to perform an electronic pedal function by utilizing a basic configuration and also perform a foldable function by adding some elements to the basic configuration to be usefully used in an autonomous vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation, Kyung Chang Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eun Sik Kim, Hyeon Uk Kim, Ji Soo Kim, Jong Hwan Han
  • Patent number: 11561569
    Abstract: A lift truck employs forward and reverse pedals connected through respective cams having different upper and lower cam profiles that engage to provide asymmetric reciprocal pedal motion. For example, first pedal depression causes a first cam upper profile to engage with a second cam upper profile and cause increased elevation of a second pedal, and first pedal depression causes a first cam lower profile to disengage with a second cam lower profile associated with the second pedal, such that first pedal depression is greater than the increased elevation of the second pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: Hyster-Yale Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Michael Jay
  • Patent number: 11524740
    Abstract: Various embodiments of transportation devices that have at least two axes of rotation and employ ride balance based drive control are disclosed. One embodiment is a scooter type device with a platform structure movable in fore-aft. The drive motor may be provided at the platform section or drive wheel or be otherwise located. Other embodiments include inline wheeled board embodiments. Yet other embodiments include those utilizing a continuous track. The continuous track embodiments may have two drive motors, among other features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Inventor: Shane Chen
  • Patent number: 10810985
    Abstract: A volume pedal for a guitar is configured so that the volume pedal is at the front of an effects pedals signal chain or at the end of the signal chain depending on the desires of a user. The volume pedal attenuates the whole signal chain allowing the musician to produce swells and similar effects when at the front of the signal chain and controls overall after effects and turns down reverb and delay repeats as well as noise from overdrive/distortion pedals when at the back of the signal chain. A quad pole double throw switch controls the signal flow of the device either directing the signal to flow from guitar to potentiometer to signal chain to amplifier or from guitar to signal chain to potentiometer to amplifier depending on whether the volume pedal is at the front or the rear of the signal chain respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Inventor: Bruce E Nelson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10496125
    Abstract: An automatic throttle for a hydrostatic transmission having a forward pedal and a reverse pedal. Each pedal actuates a swash plate on a hydraulic pump for forward and reverse travel. A first bell crank and a second bell crank are connected to the forward pedal and the reverse pedal respectively. Each bell crank may pull a Bowden cable connected to an engine throttle to increase engine speed when either of the pedals is depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Vikas Jadhav
  • Patent number: 9708027
    Abstract: A bicycle comprising a frame, front and rear wheels supporting the frame, and a brake lever assembly including a brake lever and an end cap. The brake lever has a pivot portion, a gripping portion defining a gripping length, and a free end defining an end width. The end cap is detachably secured to the free end and defines a cap width larger than the end width. The end cap has a maximum dimension that is less than the gripping length and is preferably substantially symmetrical (e.g., spherical) around the free end. The brake lever assembly can include a fastener securing the end cap to the free end. For example, the fastener can thread through the end cap and engage the brake lever. In order to enhance securing the end cap to the free end, the end cap can include a recess that is dimensioned to receive the free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventor: Jan Talavasek
  • Patent number: 9240172
    Abstract: A musical instrument effects pedal system and related methods of use are provided. The system includes rotatable control mechanisms mounted on the side of the enclosure, easily manipulated by the foot of the user, for altering the audio signal output by an instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Inventor: William N. Gadol, III
  • Patent number: 9141128
    Abstract: A pedal value sensor arrangement for a motor vehicle includes a pedal movable between an idle position and an end position, a bearing for the pedal, and a spring configured to apply a restoring force to the pedal towards the idle position. In an intermediate position between the idle position and the end position, the spring is configured to apply a restoring force to the pedal toward the idle position that is greater than before and/or after the intermediate position, wherein the greater restoring force of the spring is brought about by a contact of a first section of the spring with a second section of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Vaclav Cizek, Dusan Falar
  • Publication number: 20150142290
    Abstract: An improved motor vehicle speed and braking control system configured to maximize performance and response times for braking to a driver's instinctual physiological and psychological response to a perceived need to decelerate. The system provides a throttle pedal and brake pedal system configured to cause braking and an immediate change of engine power to idle once a user touches or causes activation of safety switches by a proximity or contact with them directly or with the brake pedal or a sliding of the throttle pedal depending on the configuration. Accidental acceleration during any attempt to brake is thereby eliminated by the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Victor Van Saanen
  • Patent number: 9010212
    Abstract: An accelerator pedal operation error resolution device has a stepping force conversion pendant body which depends from a pendant pin of a support pillar which is anchored to a brake arm, supporting a first rising member with a fluctuation fulcrum pin and a second rising member with an acceleration fulcrum pin. The stepping force conversion pendant body movably supports a guide member, one end wherein makes contact with a chassis. A conversion metal fitting houses the pendant pin in the upper part thereof, and has, in the lower protrusion part, a pin and a lock metal fitting. The lock metal fitting and a notch part of the guide member are either engaged or disengaged. When the guide member and the lock metal fitting are engaged, the movement of the brake arm is restricted, and is allowed when these are disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Heiji Minami
  • Patent number: 8833194
    Abstract: A shift device with an over-shift lock for a multi-speed transmission of a motor vehicle, in which individual gears are shifted incrementally, is provided. The shift device has a pivotable shifting element which is composed of an activation element and a driver element displaceably held thereon. Both elements have mutually aligned oblong holes which are penetrated by a shifting shaft leading to the transmission. A shifting process is limited by the striking of the shifting shaft against the end sides of the oblong holes. In this position, the alternating influencing of the shifting shaft and the contours of the oblong holes prevents a further rotation of the shifting shaft and thereby an over-shifting of the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Philipp Buecherl, Roland Zettler, Lionel Mathern
  • Patent number: 8827048
    Abstract: A tractor steer-by-braking pedal arrangement. The pedal arrangement has a central brake pedal connected on one side to a right side pedal, and on the other side to a left side pedal. The central brake pedal acts on a brake system to produce the desired braking action. Each of the two side pedals when foot-operated by the driver, generates an activating signal to activate an electronic brake system, which only activates the brake required to steer-by-braking in the desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Franco Mazzucchi, Eugenio Sereni, Roberto Mazzucchi
  • Patent number: 8546676
    Abstract: A pedal device for an electronic percussion instrument, including: a base; a foot board supported at its first end portion to the base and configured to pivot by depression; an arm rotatably supported at its first end at a pivot point located near to a second end portion of the foot board, the arm being pivotable about the pivot point; a mass portion provided near to a second end of the arm; a regulating portion for regulating a locus of displacement of the mass portion when the foot board is moved from a depression start position to a depression end position; and a stopper portion provided on the base for defining the depression end position by contacting the mass portion in a forward stroke of depression, the regulating portion regulating the locus of the displacement of the mass portion so as not to contain a downward component in the forward stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Ryuji Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 8447436
    Abstract: A handlebar control system for a motorcycle. The system includes a controller, a network interface, a plurality of user actuated devices coupled to the controller, an electronic switch coupled to the controller, a first connector having terminals linking to motorcycle power and a network bus, and a second connector coupled to a device external to the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Molinaro, Jim Williams, Benjamin Hodge, IV
  • Patent number: 8197368
    Abstract: A system for a self-propelled vehicle with variable travel speed, such as a mowing tractor, includes, between the primary driving shaft of the vehicle and an output shaft, such as the wheel drive shaft of the vehicle, at least one controlled variable speed drive with a belt and controlled mechanism for reversing the direction of travel of the vehicle, the primary driving shaft transmitting, via the variable speed drive, its motion to the input shaft of the reversal mechanism, itself able to directly or indirectly engage the output shaft, such as the wheel drive shaft of the vehicle, in such a way as to allow the vehicle to travel forward or in reverse respectively, at a variable travel speed. This transmission system is characterized in that the variable speed drive and the mechanism for reversing the direction of travel of the vehicle are controlled selectively from the same control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: France Reducteurs
    Inventor: Robert Blanchard
  • Publication number: 20100263469
    Abstract: A floor structure of a driver's seat for an automotive vehicle comprises an organ type of accelerator pedal supported swingably at a support point with its lower-end hinge portion, a hanging type of brake pedal provided beside the accelerator pedal and supported swingably at a support point with its upper pivotal portion, a floor mat covering an upper face of a front portion of a floor panel located in front of the driver's seat, and an incline forming member provided at a specified portion of the floor mat located in back of a pressing-face board of the accelerator pedal, the incline forming member forming an incline portion at an upper face of a heel placing area on which a driver's heel is placed, the incline portion being inclined so that its front portion is positioned at a higher level than its rear portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomonori OHTSUBO, Asami IWAMOTO, Hiroki UEMURA, Yusaku TAKEDA, Daisuke UMETSU, Yoji YATSUSHIRO
  • Patent number: 7743680
    Abstract: A parking brake system for an automotive vehicle includes an internally articulated pedal arm having an upper pedal arm which is connected with a cable operated parking brake actuator, and a lower pedal arm which is pivotably attached to the upper pedal arm such that the lower pedal arm has both a stowed position and a deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies
    Inventors: David Marshman, Michael Whitens, Jeffrey Singer, Michael Samluk, Peter Bejin, Tuan-Anh Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7721866
    Abstract: The present invention provides a traveling operation device that is configured so that the speed-change lock mechanism shifts from the speed-change locked state to the unlocked state when the brake operation mechanism is operated. The present invention also provides a traveling operation device including a forward-side speed-change pedal and a rearward-side speed-change pedal for operating a traveling stepless speed-change device provided in a working vehicle, wherein the forward-side speed-change pedal and the rearward-side speed-change pedal are arranged spaced apart in a vehicle width direction so as to define a footrest region in between at one of left and right step boards in the working vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shinya Kawashiri
  • Patent number: 7467682
    Abstract: A motorcycle shifting arrangement is connected to a transmission of the motorcycle for shifting the transmission between a higher gear and a lower gear. The motorcycle includes an original shifting structure having an original shift member pivotally mounted on an original pivot shaft coupled to the transmission at a location adjacent a foot rest attached to a bottom portion of the motorcycle. A supplemental shifting structure is pivotally attached relative to a supporting structure at a forward location on the motorcycle and has a foot engaging shift member adjacent the foot rest for permitting shifting of the motorcycle between higher and lower gears while the motorcycle operator has a foot supported on the foot rest by applying downward force of the operator's toe on either of the original shift member or the foot engaging shift member of the supplementary shifting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: SWH Enterprise, LLC
    Inventor: Scott W. Hahm
  • Publication number: 20080173122
    Abstract: A vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle may include multiple fuel storage tanks arranged in a split side-by-side configuration. The vehicle may include a rear suspension having a linkage which moves in a direction not parallel with a centerline plane of the vehicle. The vehicle may include a tip-over structure which prevents unwanted tip-over of the vehicle. The vehicle may have moveable foot control levers to accommodate different size riders. The vehicle may include a moveable windshield.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Applicant: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Bagnariol
  • Publication number: 20080092688
    Abstract: The present invention provides a traveling operation device that is configured so that the speed-change lock mechanism shifts from the speed-change locked state to the unlocked state when the brake operation mechanism is operated. The present invention also provides a traveling operation device including a forward-side speed-change pedal and a rearward-side speed-change pedal for operating a traveling stepless speed-change device provided in a working vehicle, wherein the forward-side speed-change pedal and the rearward-side speed-change pedal are arranged spaced apart in a vehicle width direction so as to define a footrest region in between at one of left and right step boards in the working vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: YANMAR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shinya Kawashiri
  • Patent number: 7195096
    Abstract: A pedal pusher to provide for single handed manipulation of two (2) pedals of a motor vehicle, such as a golf cart, is disclosed. A first manipulation of the device in an arc range of motion controls a first pedal of the vehicle while a second manipulation of the device in a rotational range of motion controls a second pedal of the vehicle. Angular adjustment of the device to a desired orientation relative to the seat of the vehicle for the comfort of the operator is provided for.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: Bruce A Mawhinney
  • Patent number: 7140830
    Abstract: An electronic control system for a machine having a boom assembly and an implement assembly. A microprocessor is provided having an input and generating first and second output signals. A first electrohydraulic valve is connected to receive the first output signal from the microprocessor, and connected to position the boom assembly in response to the first output signal. A second electrohydraulic valve is connected to receive the second output signal from the microprocessor, and connected to position the implement assembly in response to the second output signal. A boom position sensor is disposed on the boom assembly or the implement assembly and connected to send a boom position input signal to the microprocessor, the microprocessor being connected to receive the boom position input signal and generate at least one of the first output signal and the second output signal, thereby controlling a position of the implement assembly relative to the boom assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: John G. Berger, John R. Haupt
  • Patent number: 7040447
    Abstract: A pedal pusher to provide for hand manipulation of a pedal of a motor vehicle, such as a golf cart, is disclosed. Means are disclosed to provide for release of a substantial portion of the device where the pedal of the vehicle may be operated without substantial interference by the portion of the device remaining attached to the pedal of the vehicle. Means are disclosed to provide for angular adjustment of the device to a desired orientation relative to the seat of the vehicle for the comfort of the operator. Means are disclosed to provide for length adjustment for selectively adjusting a length of the device within a length range of motion for the comfort of the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventor: Bruce A Mawhinney
  • Patent number: 7028577
    Abstract: An accelerator pedal is positioned at a kickdown position. Then, an output value of a measurement device of an accelerator pedal position sensor is measured. Thereafter, the measured output value of the measurement device is stored in a correction output value storage of the accelerator pedal position sensor along with a corresponding correction value, which is used to correct the measured output value of the measurement device. A couple of fully opened position stop members is provided and is engaged with the accelerator pedal when the accelerator pedal is rotated to a fully opened position. Furthermore, a couple of fully closed position stop members is provided and is engaged with the accelerator pedal when the accelerator pedal is rotated to a fully closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yasunari Kato, Masahiro Makino
  • Patent number: 6837822
    Abstract: An improved structure of a gear cluster for a bicycle having a crankset mounted with a crankshaft provided with a planetary gear module, wherein the planetary gear module includes a big wheel and a small wheel section and the planetary gear module drives an inner gear module mounted onto a gear plate, One lateral side of the crankshaft is provided with a driving structure including a second driving wheel and a third driving wheel engageable with the big and small wheels and the crankshaft is provided with a regulating structure for the positioning of the driving structure. The regulating structure includes two sets of a second and a third ratchet blocks for the positioning or free rotating of the second and the third driving wheels. The regulating structure is provided with a triggering structure to act on different ratchet block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Chin Fu Wu
  • Patent number: 6802202
    Abstract: An accelerator pedal is positioned at a kickdown position. Then, an output value of a measurement device of an accelerator pedal position sensor is measured. Thereafter, the measured output value of the measurement device is stored in a correction output value storage of the accelerator pedal position sensor along with a corresponding correction value, which is used to correct the measured output value of the measurement device. A couple of fully opened position stop members is provided and is engaged with the accelerator pedal when the accelerator pedal is rotated to a fully opened position. Furthermore, a couple of fully closed position stop members is provided and is engaged with the accelerator pedal when the accelerator pedal is rotated to a fully closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yasunari Kato, Masahiro Makino
  • Patent number: 6786312
    Abstract: A combination clutch and brake system that may be original equipment for or retrofitted to a motorcycle having a clutch, brake and stick shift mechanical rear box. The sole operating lever for applying the clutch and brake includes an adjustable cam and linkage arrangement whereby either the clutch or brake may be activated first or both activated substantially concurrently. The clutch is controlled by cam action and the brake by a adjustable linkage to the cam which legs the rotation of the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Lewis L. Osborne
  • Publication number: 20040129487
    Abstract: A vehicle chassis having substantially all of the mechanical, electrical and structural componentry necessary for a fully functional vehicle, including at least energy conversion system, a steering system and a braking system. The chassis is configured for releasable engagement with a variety of different types or styles of vehicle bodies. Various prior art mechanical control linkages between a driver and controlled systems are replaced with non-mechanical control signal transmission components. Fuel cell technology is also implemented. A system for adjustable, reconfigurable foot pedals is also shown for generating driver input to the by-wire braking systems and energy conversion systems and for providing control and comfort for the driver and/or a passenger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Mohsen D. Shabana, Christopher E. Borroni-Bird, Adrian B. Chernoff, Robert Louis Vitale
  • Patent number: 6622584
    Abstract: An actuator for operating the foot pedals of a motor vehicle with the aid of a servomotor. The actuator has two actuating arms which can be alternatingly actuated by selecting the direction of rotation of the servomotor. First and second coupling elements in the form of, respectively, an eccentric device and a pin projecting radially away from the motor shaft are provided to produce this alternating action on either actuating arm. It is thus possible to selectively actuate either the brake pedal or the gas pedal, for example, of a motor vehicle with a mutual device which makes only minimal demands on space and is cost-effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Kurt Stäehle
  • Patent number: 6609436
    Abstract: A vehicle brake pedal has first and second master cylinders and the first pedal arm removably attached to the vehicle having a brake pedal foot pad movably attached thereto. A second brake pedal arm is operatively coupled to the first master cylinder and coupled to the brake pedal foot pad on one end portion thereof for movement of the second brake pedal arm responsive to movement of the brake pedal pad. A third brake pedal arm operatively coupled to the second master cylinder is coupled to the brake pedal foot pad on another portion thereof. The movement of the third brake pedal arm is responsive to movement of the brake pedal foot pad so that the brake pedal foot pad can be rotated to different angles on the first pedal arm to thereby apply different pressure to the first and second master cylinders by carrying the brake pedal foot pad while applying pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: James M. Laws
  • Publication number: 20020178854
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control device for controlling machines, especially hydraulic machines, by hand or foot. The inventive device comprises an actuating element (1), especially a pedal or a control lever, which can be moved in several directions. The aim of the invention is to feel a resisting force when the actuating element (1) is displaced or adjusted, whereby said force is on the scale of hydraulic forces having a direct effect. The actuating element (1) engages with a transmitter device (3) which is not hydraulic or is hydraulically decoupled from the hydraulic system. A damping device (6) engages with the actuating element (1). Said damping device defies the movement in at least one direction of motion pertaining to the actuating element (1) by means of a fluid that is moved by the actuating element (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Jurgen Weber, Helmut Renner, Manfred Kurde
  • Patent number: 6481311
    Abstract: In a supporting structure for a brake pedal assembly pivotally mounted for rocking motion on the rear surface of a dash panel of an automobile through a first bracket, a front portion of the first bracket is fixed to the dash panel and a rear-end upper portion thereof is coupled to a second bracket fastened to an instrument panel member as a car body member in a cabin so as to be disengageable by the application of a load of automobile collision above a predetermined level. The brake pedal assembly is pivotally mounted for rocking motion to the first bracket. On the underside of the second bracket, an inclined guide surface is provided which abuts against the upper end of the brake pedal assembly when the coupling between the first and second brackets is disengaged in an automobile collision so that the first bracket moves backward together with the brake pedal assembly. The inclined guide surface guides the brake pedal assembly in its downward movement through its abutment against the inclined guide surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventors: Shuji Sanagi, Kouki Makino, Keisuke Miyoshi, Kazunori Tomono, Hideaki Tanaka, Kazutaka Ishikura
  • Patent number: 6389922
    Abstract: A drive linkage that is used for controlling valves for the drive motors of an implement or machine, such as an excavator, has a pair of links that can be loaded in tension and compression by manually moving operating levers. The links in turn actuate a cam that tilts a swiveling disk to operate a pilot valve assembly normally used for a joystick control. The links are connected so that the pilot valve can selectively operate motors for driving opposite tracks on sides of the implement in either forward and reverse direction, and wherein motors for both sides can be operated in a forward direction and in a rearward direction. Additionally, each of the drive motors can be controlled so the motor for one side drives in forward direction and simultaneously the motor for the other side drives in reverse direction. A control disk for moving the plungers is operated through a cam plate that is in turn moved by moving the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventor: Daniel J. Krieger
  • Patent number: 6360630
    Abstract: A dual position foot pedal includes a base and pedal arrangement which enables access by one of the user's toe and a user's sole for manipulation of the pedal. Switching between the two pedal positions is achieved by rotating the pedal. In this manner, the foot pedal combines the functionality of two common surgical foot pedal types in one pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Allergan Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Holtorf
  • Publication number: 20010020401
    Abstract: A dual position foot pedal includes a base and pedal arrangement which enables access by one of the user's toe and a user's sole for manipulation of the pedal. Switching between the two pedal positions is achieved by rotating the pedal. In this manner, the foot pedal combines the functionality of two common surgical foot pedal types in one pedal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Publication date: September 13, 2001
    Inventor: James L. Holtorf
  • Patent number: 6260434
    Abstract: A dual position foot pedal includes a base and pedal arrangement which enables access by one of the user's toe and a user's sole for manipulation of the pedal. Switching between the two pedal positions is achieved by rotating the pedal. In this manner, the foot pedal combines the functionality of two common surgical foot pedal types in one pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Allergan Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Holtorf
  • Publication number: 20010007211
    Abstract: The present invention provides a protective covering accessory for use on a shift lever of a motorcycle or all terrain vehicle. The accessory comprises a layer of polymeric material applied to at least the underside of the shift lever, the layer of polymeric material having rounded edges and the polymeric material being relatively soft so as to prevent damage to footwear of a user of the motorcycle or all terrain vehicle. Preferably, the accessory is in the form of a cylinder and is fitted over the shift lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventor: Godfrey J. Allert
  • Patent number: 6150623
    Abstract: A footpedal suitable for use as an accelerator type pedal or a toe activated pedal includes a frame having a heel portion and a toe portion with the heel and toe portions being disposed at an angle with one another. A wedge having a generally triangular cross section is provided with first and second sides subtending a front of the wedge. A hinge pivotally mounts the wedge to the frame for enabling the wedge to be flipped between a first position having the wedge first side generally aligned with the frame heel portion and extending therefrom and a second position having the wedge second side generally aligned with the frame toe portion and extending therefrom. In each opposition, a substantially planar relationship is established for a user in either the accelerator configuration or toe configuration. A switch lever is mounted on either side of the pedal for actuating a switch by lateral movement of the user's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Allergan
    Inventor: Jerry S. J. Chen
  • Patent number: 6000511
    Abstract: An arrangement of foot operated elements for a motor vehicle includes a first element with a power booster for operating a brake and a second element with a second power booster for operating a clutch of the motor vehicle. The second power booster for actuating the clutch release is arranged adjacent the power booster for actuating the brake device. The power booster for the clutch has a linear guide which guides the second element, which is an actuating push rod by which the second power booster for the clutch can be operated directly. The second power booster for the clutch further has a servo device which further reduces the actuating forces and/or the operating paths for actuating the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Mannesmann Sachs AG
    Inventors: Angelika Ebert, Thomas Otto, Jorg Willert
  • Patent number: 5992262
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a self-centering and dampening hydrostatic transmission linkage. The invention consists of a pivot link that is pivotally attached to an isolator plate. Connecting the isolator plate to the pivot link is a centering damper. An upper rocker arm and lower rocker arm connect the pivot link to the hydrostatic transmission system control pedal. The pivot link also has a hydrostatic transmission adjustment rod and an aperture. The movement of the pedal controls the movement of the rod which adjust the tractor transmission for either forward or rearward travel. When a no force is placed on the pedal, the centering damper moves the aperture into contact with an adjustable spring steel detent. This ensures that the tractor transmission will remain in neutral. The pedal is designed with a foot rest and two elongated pads. This allows the operator flexibility when using the tractor for a variety of farm operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack K. Braine, Donald Russell Whitenight, Randall D. Kern, Darryl T. Leeds
  • Patent number: 5983749
    Abstract: A dual position foot pedal includes a base and pedal arrangement which enables access by one of the user's toe and a user's sole for manipulation of the pedal. Switching between the two pedal positions is achieved by rotating the pedal. In this manner, the foot pedal combines the functionality of two common surgical foot pedal types in one pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Allergan Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Holtorf
  • Patent number: 5913946
    Abstract: An adjustable accelerator pedal apparatus allows the adjustment of a first end of a pedal lever (18) to accommodate operators having varying anatomical characteristics. The apparatus includes a an adjuster link (32) having a first end pivotally connected to a second point (33) on a rocker (28) a first end pivotally connected to a first ground point (36). An anchor link (44) is pivotally connected to a second ground point (46) at one end and a third point (50) of the rocker (28) at the opposite end. A cable (60) interconnects the pedal lever to the throttle linkage 66, thereby allowing actuation of the throttle (68) upon displacement of the pedal. The interconnection of the adjuster link and a second point (33) on the rocker form a virtual ground point (70) allowing the first end of the pedal lever (18) to be adjusted between first and second pedal positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Kip Alan Ewing
  • Patent number: 5842378
    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 a transmission. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Timothy Paul Zellmer
  • Patent number: 5725184
    Abstract: A brake rudder pedal system for a light aircraft is disclosed including a pair of pedal bodies whose tops are rotatably supported between hull frames; rudder and steering operation members being rotatably connected to the pedal bodies thereoutside, the member having upper first arms connected to a rudder operating flexible cable and to moving-left-and-right flexible cable, and lower second arms connected to the steering mechanism by a steering rod; brake operating member having a brake pedal whose lower portion is rotatably supported to the pedal bodies, and a brake lever connected to a brake pedal and for operating a brake mechanism; and pedal position controller member having a control handle rotatably disposed on a gauge board cover, a pair of transmission flexible cables rotated while connected to the control handle, a control nut supported to said pedal bodies to be movable forward and rearward, a support block supported to the connection arm to be movable forward and rearward, and a control screw rod su
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Agency For Defense Development
    Inventors: Q-Seop Kang, Chan-Won Jun, Ki-Du Lee
  • Patent number: 5661999
    Abstract: A motorcycle shift pedal assembly to shift gears in a transmission upward or downward by using downward foot pressure for either upshifting or downshifting wherein there are a pair of shift pedals linked by a lever assembly to move a shift lever and in turn a rod to the transmission to shift gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Robert P. Carone
  • Patent number: 5596906
    Abstract: A combined accelerating/braking apparatus of a vehicle includes a substantially hook-shaped rod which includes a first end, a first elbow, a second elbow, a third elbow, a fourth elbow, and a second end, where the fourth elbow is pivotally connected to a wall in the vehicle. A pedal is pivotally connected to the first elbow of the hook-shaped rod. A bracket which is secured to a wall of the vehicle includes a slot for detachable receiving the second elbow of the hook-shaped rod. A first torsion spring is biased between the pedal and a rod portion between the first elbow and the second elbow of the hook-shaped rod for providing a recovery tension when the pedal is pivotally depressed by a driver's foot sole with respect to the first elbow of the hook-shaped rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Sam Lin
    Inventor: Sam Lin
  • Patent number: 5583407
    Abstract: A manipulating foot pedal device used with a video game machine or the like is operable to provide a three-dimensional operation. The device includes a base member movable in a forward/backward direction relative. A rotatable member is mounted on a top of the base member and rotatable about a first axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the forward/backward direction; a pivotal member mounted on a top of the rotatable member and pivotable about a second axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the first axis. The device further includes first, second, and third detectors operable to detect a moved amount of the base member, a rotated amount of the rotatable member, and a pivoted amount of the pivotal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiromitsu Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 5511631
    Abstract: A running control structure for a lawn tractor switchable between a two-wheel drive mode and a four-wheel drive mode. The control structure includes a first driving device for driving a first pair of wheels, a second driving device for driving a second pair of wheels, and a clutch mechanism for switching the second driving device between a driving state and a non-driving state. The clutch mechanism has a controller for operating a clutch, and a spring for biasing the controller to a position corresponding to the non-driving state of the second driving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Hironori Tsuchihashi, Osami Fujiwara, Tuyoshi Satou, Yoshikazu Togoshi, Toshihiko Hamada, Yoshihiro Kawahara, Niro Bando