Pivots About Intermediate Fulcrum Patents (Class 477/213)
  • Patent number: 5997438
    Abstract: A simple foot operated mechanism for controlling both throttle and brakes of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The throttle is controlled by pivoting foot at the ankle. A locking mechanism is used, which provides rigid support for the driver's foot while operating the throttle. The brakes are applied by pushing the heel down to release the locking mechanism, and straightening the knee. The leg movement from accelerating to braking is a natural and smooth one, and in a natural way cuts the fuel to the engine before brakes are applied. Once brakes are applied it is possible to open the throttle valve without necessarily releasing brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Janusz A Murakowski
  • Patent number: 5558601
    Abstract: A pedal assembly comprising for driving a vehicle, comprising: a brake pedal (10) borne vertically swingably by a brake arm (11); a laterally biased accelerator lever (20) arranged just above the right-hand side of the brake pedal while being urged toward the brake pedal and having a lateral reciprocating stroke; and a guide roller (16) arranged at the right-hand portion of the brake pedal while having its circumferential edge protruded above the pedal. Further comprised is a spring (12) disposed on the floor of the vehicle below the brake pedal for urging the lower end portion of the brake pedal to this side. The accelerator lever is arranged, when in a non-load state, at an inclination with respect to the axis of the brake pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Masuyuki Naruse