Abstract: A reaction force pedal device provided with pedal members operated by a driver, a motor which applies a reaction force to the pedal members through an arm member which is always connected to the pedal members, and a clutch arranged between the motor and the arm member. When the pedal members are displaced, the clutch is temporarily released.

Abstract: A foot actuated pivoting lever is provided. The lever may include: a lever member having two ends, one end configured to attach to a mechanism configured to receive an input from the lever member; and a pedal pivotally attached proximate to the other end of the lever member, wherein the pedal is configured to pivot between a first and a second position, wherein in the first position, the pedal lies on top of a section of the lever member and, in the second position, the pedal extends beyond the lever member. A mechanism for actuating a piston may be provided.

Abstract: Embodiments of an unpowered pedal assist device are provided for use in conjunction with a vehicular control pedal movable between a non-depressed position and a depressed position. In one embodiment, the unpowered pedal assist device includes a multi-bar linkage and at least one resilient element coupled to the multi-bar linkage. The multi-bar linkage is configured to be coupled to the vehicular control pedal and, when so coupled to move from a start position to a finish position as the vehicular control pedal moves from the non-depressed position to the depressed position. The at least one resilient element is configured to bias the multi-bar linkage: (i) toward the start position over an initial range of travel of the vehicular control pedal, and (ii) toward the finish position over a primary range of travel of the vehicular control pedal.

Abstract: An adjusting screw (15) for a control lever device (1) for vehicles, wherein said adjusting screw (15) comprises a screw body (18) with a threaded shank (19) that can be screwed in a corresponding threaded hole (16) of the lever device (1) and a locking body (26) pivotally connected to the screw body (18). The locking body (26) comprises contact means (27) interacting with the screw body (28, 18) such as to counteract the rotation of the locking body (26) relative to the screw body (18) to a certain extent and anchoring means (29) engaging an anchoring seat (17) of the lever device (1) such as to prevent that the locking body (26) may rotate relative to the threaded hole (16) of the lever device (1). There are also provided means (25) for preventing that the locking body (26) may be displaced along the shank (19) of the screw body (18).

Abstract: A lever device for operating a hydraulic actuator for a motorcycle, comprises a support that can be connected to a bearing structure, a hydraulic actuator connected to the support, a main lever, pivotally connected to the support and intended to be operated by being moved close to or away from said hydraulic actuator, a control rod and an adjustment member that are interposed in series between the main lever and a piston of the hydraulic actuator such as to transmit an operating movement from the lever to said piston. The adjustment member pivots about an axis of adjustment and defines a seat that accommodates an end of the control rod. The seat is eccentric to the axis of adjustment, whereby rotation of the adjustment member changes the orientation of the control rod relative to the axis of rotation of the lever, and thus lever ratio.

Abstract: A brake pedal apparatus includes: an operating pedal to be depressed so as to be pivoted about a first axis; a pivot member pivotable about a second axis parallel to the first axis, and connected to the operating pedal via a connecting link so as to be pivoted about the second axis in response to a depression of the operating pedal; and an output member to receive an output generated upon pivot motion of the pivot member. The connecting link is connected, at respective connected positions, to the operating pedal and the pivot member. A relationship between a ratio of the output to a depression force acting on the operating pedal, and an amount of the depression of the operating pedal is changed depending upon the connected positions of the connecting link.

Abstract: The mid-zone pressing tool has a base and a pressing assembly, which are pivotally connected at the rear by a transverse shaft. A pair of cantilevers extends forward from each side of an uppermost rear portion of the base. A pair of arms is connected on the distal ends by a common handle. A first coupling connects a middle portion of each arm to the pressing assembly by an axle, cam or link. A second coupling connects the proximal ends of each arm to the cantilever by an axle, cam or link. Pushing the handle down pivots the arms, engages the couplings, and transmits a concentrated downward force to the front of the pressing assembly. The cantilevers allow a range of coupling placements, including near the middle of the pressing tool. The couplings are optionally releasable.

Abstract: The thrust return mechanism (4) is intended for a thrust return pedal. It includes an electric motor (28) for the positioning of a control member (30) by the intermediary of transmission elements. The transmission elements include at least one cable (48, 52) of which one end is fixed to a first pulley (42, 54) and which is then wound around a second pulley (40, 50) and of which the second end is fixed on the first pulley (42, 54).

Abstract: The present invention provides a variable ratio brake pedal actuating assembly with an early increase of geometric ratio or force ratio and a subsequent decrease. The actuating assembly comprises a mount, an arm, an input portion and an input connector. The input connector is operatively connected to the arm such that the ratio varies as the arm moves. The ratio reaches a maximum peak prior to moving 30% of the fully stroked position. Also provided is an actuating assembly that uses a cam guide structure with a contoured cam surface and a link member. A configuration of the contoured cam surface, a guide slot, and the link member are such that the ratio varies as the arm is moved. Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a cam guided booster pin linkage assembly that provides a variable pedal ratio.

Abstract: A clutch-lever manipulation assisting device includes an input member coupled to a side of a clutch lever, an output member connected to the input member via a connection device and coupled to an operated member of a clutch, and a biasing device that assists a manipulating force by the clutch lever. The connection device is constructed such that a ratio of a moved amount of the output member to a moved amount of the input member varies during a clutch operation.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an ergonomic manual clutch actuator assembly, and a method for providing the manual clutch actuator assembly, for a straddle-type vehicle or the like. The assembly includes a manual clutch lever pivotally mounted to a handlebar for drawing a clutch cable connected to a clutch actuator mechanism. The clutch actuator mechanism is provided within the housing of the vehicle for cooperating with a distal end of a clutch shaft for disengaging a clutch when the cable is drawn. The clutch actuator assembly requires a first predefined force to pivot the clutch lever away from a normal extended position. A second predefined force, being greater than the first force, is required to further pivot the clutch lever to an intermediate position. Also, a third predefined force is required to maintain the clutch lever in a retracted position, the third force is less than the second force.

Abstract: A device for actuating a cable includes a lever pivotable about an axis, a connecting device for connecting the cable in an extension-resistant manner to the lever at a distance from the axis, the distance being decreased by pivoting the lever. The connecting device includes a traction rod having a variable length. A slideway is arranged on the lever transversely to the traction rod and has a profile in the form of a curve. The device also includes a sliding component for coupling the traction rod and the slideway, a device for reducing an effective length of the connecting device, a guide device arranged at the lever, and a shaped part for guiding the traction rod and coupled to the guide device.

Abstract: A cart comprises a base frame, driver for extending an operational stroke of a hydraulic jack and transferring this movement into an up and down motion, a pair of elevating rods simultaneously lifted of lowered by movement of the driver, a pair of supporting frames for operably supporting the elevating rods by virtue of guide rollers, and a holder fixed to the elevating rods for lifting and lowering the component supply unit, wherein a multi purpose space is formed surrounded by the driver, the elevating rods, and the holder. By using a positioning mechanism containing a structure where a positioning pin of a fixing device fits into a V-shaped slot formed on a component supply unit side, a component supply unit may be positioned in two different directions by pushing the component supply unit in a single direction.

Abstract: A quiet apply push to release control pedal system includes a frame to mount the system to a vehicle. The frame also includes a geared rack and a pedal arm and a quiet apply carriage are rotatably mounted to the frame. The quiet apply carriage has a geared quiet apply mechanism which engages the geared rack and a cable carrier to which a control cable can be attached. Pushing the pedal moves the carriage to tension a control cable attached thereto by rotating the quiet apply mechanism along the geared rack. The quiet apply mechanism includes a clutch which prevents the gear from rotating in a direction to release the tension in the cable unless the clutch is released. The carriage also includes a pawl and toggle mechanism which locks the pedal arm to rotate with the carriage to tension the cable when the pedal is first pressed.

Abstract: The transmission gear shift lever device has a variable select lever ratio adapted to accommodate most of the operating mechanisms of the conventional transmission gear shift (TGS) lever device without major design changes. The select lever ratio is a ratio of rotating angle of a select lever relative to the rotating angle of the TGS lever and can be varied during the select manipulation of the TGS lever, such that all shift stages in a 6-speed transmission can be controlled while the rotating angle of the TGS lever during the select manipulation is maintained at the same size as that of a conventional TGS lever device.

Abstract: A plurality of clutch levers transmit force to a pressure plate of a clutch. The lever ratio of the clutch lever is variable as the clutch lever moves from an engaged to a disengaged state. When the clutch is engaged, the clutch lever presses the pressure plate to engage clutch discs. The lever ratio of the clutch lever is relatively large, allowing for an acceptable clamp load. When the clutch is disengaged, the clutch lever lifts from the pressure plate, disengaging the pressure plate from the clutch discs. When the clutch is disengaged, the lever ratio is relatively small, allowing for more clearance between the pressure plate and the flywheel and an increase in pressure plate lift. By using a clutch lever having a variable lever ratio, both clamp load and clutch lift can be maximized. The conditions exist during the entire lift of the clutch.

Abstract: A hand-held vacuum pump has a piston for drawing a vacuum. The pump has a piston rod having a piston end and a distal end. The piston end is attached to the piston. The pump further has a pivot lever having a rod end, a handle end, and a pivot interface disposed therebetween. The rod end is rotatably attached to the distal end. The pump has a pivot support having a support interface. The support interface is cooperatively sized and configured with the pivot interface to translate the rod end of the pivot lever in substantially axial movement of the piston rod.

Abstract: A device for actuating a clutch, more particularly for motor vehicles, is disclosed, which has an operating lever pivoted on a bearing point, the operating lever being effectively connected to a master cylinder for the production of actuating pressure. The device also has a top dead center spring pivoted on a bearing point, which is articulated with the operating lever is in a position between dead center and an end position it exerts a force on the operating lever in the direction of this end position. According to the invention, both the bearing point for the top dead center spring and also the bearing point for the operating lever are provided on the master cylinder. An actuating device of simple design is thus created which can easily be mounted at the respective place of assembly, for example on the stationary pedal frame of a motor vehicle.

Abstract: A system for reducing the force to actuate the clutch pedal in automobiles is described, wherein the clutch-actuating pedal (2) is fixed to one end of an actuating arm (1), which has, at its other end, a pivot pin (3) as an integral part of the free end of the rod (4), the actuating arm (1) being further pivoted around a pivot pin (6) located between its ends and fixed tot he vehicle body (not shown), so that a force applied on to the pedal (2) causes the pivot pin (3), provided at the other end of the actuating arm (1), to actuate, pressing the rod (4) of the plunger of the clutch master cylinder (5). This invention reduces the actuating force by means of a system in which the actuating arm (1), upon actuating the pedal (2), pivot pin (3) and, consequently, the lever arm (X), where the force on the rod is applied, describe a rotational path (A) around the pin (6).

Abstract: A system for reducing the force to actuate the clutch pedal in automobiles is described, wherein the clutch-actuating pedal (2) is fixed to one end of an actuating arm (1), which has, at its other end, a pivot pin (3) as an integral part of the free end of the rod (4), the actuating arm (1) being further pivoted around a pivot pin (6) located between its ends and fixed to the vehicle body (not shown), so that a force applied on to the pedal (2) causes the pivot pin (3), provided at the other end of the actuating arm (1), to actuate, pressing the rod (4) of the plunger of the clutch master cylinder (5). This invention reduces the actuating force with a system in which the actuating arm (1), upon actuating the pedal (2), pivot pin (3) and, consequently, the lever arm (X), where the force on the rod is applied, describe a rotational path (A) around the pin (6).

Abstract: A release arrangement for a hydraulically actuated clutch in a motor vehicle has an energy accumulator connected with a hydraulic system. The energy accumulator is connected with a pedal via a kinematic arrangement which adapts the pedal forces to the pedal path. It is possible to adapt the boosting force characteristic to the required pedal force curve in a very precise manner. This leads to a boosting force that possibly increases the depressing force, but primarily increases the force in the boosting area following the dead center of the kinematic arrangement. The characteristic of the boosting force curve over the pedal path can be adapted to the respective operating system in the motor vehicle without major structural alterations.

Abstract: A stroke transmission apparatus includes a displaceable stroke element, a drive element and at least one lever, which is respectively seated on the drive element and can be applied to the stroke element and to a bearing, so that with a simultaneous seating of the lever on the stroke element, on the drive element and on the bearing, a primary stroke (xp) can be transmitted to the stroke element via a lever effect of the lever, and with a changing primary stroke (xp), a stroke factor (II) can be modified by modifying at least one contact point.

Abstract: A brake operating device in which a stable input/output characteristic of a brake pedal operation amount and a brake booster device transmitted amount can be obtained, and the input/output characteristic can easily be set to a desired form. In the brake operating device, a connecting pin of a push rod is fit in and connected with a connecting hole of a brake pedal. The connecting pin is fit in a guide hole of a guide plate. When the brake pedal swings, the connecting pin moves along the connecting hole while being guided by the guide hole, and a pedal ratio is changed. In this way, the input/output characteristic of the brake pedal operation amount and the brake booster device transmitted amount is non-linear. In this case, because frictional force is reduced, a predetermined, stable pedal ratio can be obtained. A pedal ratio corresponding to a desired characteristic can easily be obtained, and degrees of freedom in design increase.

Abstract: The torque variator device of the invention is a mechanism to be interleaved between a transmission arbor and a conducted arbor, and it includes two circular plates that at the external edges they have double serrated rings. On one hand, said rings include the serration of a peripheric ratchet, and, on the other hand they engage with corresponding conical pinions at the end of the threaded bars, located radially and which are gyratory within a threaded hole in radially displaceable coupling elements of said circular plates. The invention also includes a device for the detection of the radial location of said coupling elements.

Abstract: A pivoting handle assembly having weight compensation which is anticipated to be used in conjunction with parts, part handling fixtures and other materials to reduce the apparent weight of the pivoting handling assembly having weight compensation to an operator and thereby reduce operator fatigue. In particular, an elongated spring member is positioned in the interior of an elongated pivoting arm member to at least partially compensate for the apparent weight to an operator of the pivoting handle assembly having weigh compensation being supported, transported and/or positioned thereby. As elongated pivoting arm member is rotated in a first rotational direction, a chain is wrapped around the center diameter of a pivot portion between the elongated pivoting arm member and a stationary arm member and a pin is pulled to compensate for the change in length, thus compressing the elongated spring member.

Abstract: A park lock mechanism for a transmission of a vehicle having a pawl pivotally mounted adjacent a park gear. The pawl selectively engages the park gear to prevent rotation of an output shaft. The mechanism also includes pawl actuator member having a generally flat portion on one end and an engaging surface on another end. The pawl actuator member selectively engages the engaging surface with or disengages the engaging surface from the park pawl. The mechanism further includes a manual lever, which rotates about an axis. The manual lever includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface; wherein the first contact surface is spaced closer to the axis than the second contact surface. Upon rotation of the manual lever in a first direction, the second contact surface drives the generally flat portion of the pawl actuator member to engage the pawl actuator member with the pawl.

Abstract: The present invention is a torque variator device of the type applicable to transmission shafts of a vehicle. The device is interconnected between its conductor and conducted ends. The device includes a conducting piece that conforms a header end that is run through by a plurality of radial throats that constitute the radial displacement guides of perspective articulate arms; a radially expandable set of articulated arms with articulation ends that are proximal to the connection base of the conducing piece; a conducted piece coupled to the conducted end of the transmission shaft and that, coaxially and proximally opposed to the conductor piece; a positional variator provided with radial displacement for the articulated arms; and a control means of the positional variator.

Abstract: A method of adjusting a control panel having an axis of pedal arm rotation which is capable of pivotably adjusting the control pedal relative to a reaction member, such as the eyelet of a cylinder pushrod for a brake pedal or a flexible cable in case of an accelerator pedal. The adjustment device allows the control pedal to be positioned to suit the needs of a particular driver. The control pedal can be pivotably attached to a frame in any conventional manner, such as with a pivot pin. The adjustment device is mounted alongside the control pedal and to the pushrod eyelet without the need of additional support hardware other than a device for acting on the control pedal. The adjustment device includes a rotatable member for causing pivotable movement of the pedal arm relative to the reaction member. The adjustment device is maintained a predetermined distance from the pivot of the control pedal arm by a spacing device, such as a link.

Abstract: An adjustment device for an automobile control pedal which is capable of pivotably adjusting the control pedal relative to a reaction member, such as the eyelet of a cylinder pushrod for a brake pedal or a flexible cable in case of an accelerator pedal. The adjustment device allows the control pedal to be positioned to suit the needs of a particular driver. The control pedal can be pivotably attached to a frame in any conventional manner, such as with a pivot pin. The adjustment device is mounted alongside the control pedal and to the pushrod eyelet without the need of additional support hardware other than a device for acting on the control pedal. The adjustment device includes a rotatable member for causing pivotable movement of the pedal arm relative to the reaction member. The adjustment device is maintained a predetermined distance from the pivot of the control pedal arm by a spacing device, such as a link.

Abstract: The improved motion-amplifying lever arrangement includes a pair of cooperating lobe members for effecting a mechanical advantage between the operating lever and an output cable during pivotal movement of the lever from an inoperative first position toward an operative second position, use being made of a spring clutch associated with the drive cam member for locking the lever in he brake-applied position, and a self-adjust device associated with the driven lobe cam member for removing cable slack when the operating lever is in the inoperative first position. In the preferred embodiment, the lobe members comprise lobe cams that are connected by a flexible strap of belt that extends between the cooperating cam surfaces and is secured at opposite ends to the cams, respectively.

Abstract: The improved parking brake lever arrangement includes a pair of cooperating lobe members for effecting a mechanical advantage between the operating lever and the parking brake cable, use being made of a spring clutch associated with the drive lobe member for locking the lever in the brake-applied position, and a self-adjust device associated with the driven lobe member for removing cable slack when the operating lever is in the brake-released position. In the preferred embodiment, the lobe members comprise lobe cams that are connected by a flexible strap or belt that extends between the cooperating cam surfaces and is secured at opposite ends to the cams, respectively.

Abstract: An adjustment device for an automobile control pedal which is capable of pivotably adjusting the control pedal relative to a datum point, such as the eyelet of a cylinder pushrod. The adjustment device allows the control pedal to be optimally positioned to suit the needs of a particular driver. The preferred control pedal can be pivotably attached to a frame in any conventional manner, such as with a pivot pin. The adjustment device is mounted alongside the control pedal and to the pushrod eyelet without the need of additional support hardware other than a link for maintaining a predetermined distance between the pushrod eyelet and the pivot pin of the control pedal. Consequently, the adjustment device can be readily adapted to fit conventional control pedal assemblies without significant modification. The adjustment device includes a camming device which slidably abuts the pedal arm such that rotation of the camming device causes pivotable movement of the pedal arm relative to the datum point.

Abstract: Asymmetrical mechanical linkages for sidestick roll controllers located at the pilot and copilot stations of aircraft and other vehicles with fly-by-wire control systems. The asymmetrical character of the linkage reduces the level of exertion required to rotatably displace the sidestick in the outboard direction and, as an important consequence, significantly reduces pilot fatigue.

Abstract: The disclosed lever-type gear works on a variable transmission ratio, with the degree of transmission being respectively dependent on the position of the levers and the position of the roller element between the levers. According to a preferred arrangement, the gear can be so designed as to provide a state of indifferent equilibrium once a force F.sub.P is applied to the associated lever by a rod located on the driving side, which force F.sub.P changes along with the stroke s.sub.p of the rod while a constant force is applied to rod applying force to the other lever, irrespective of the stroke s.sub.M thereof.

Abstract: An operating boosting device for a clutch of a motor vehicle having a pedal under the influence of a prestressed boosting tension spring, which has one end pivotably connected to a fixed point on the vehicle and another end pivotally connected to a pressure rod, which is connected to a lever arm of the pedal at a bearing point. The tension rod exercises a restoring force which holds the pedal in a clutch engaged position and when the clutch is operated and after a dead-center position of the pressure rod is exceeded, applies a force which assists a force of the driver's foot in disengaging the clutch. The pressure rod is pivotably held at the bearing point of the lever arm during each pedal position. The force of the boosting tension spring, in each pedal position, is applied along an action line that extends through the fixed point of the tension spring on the vehicle and through the bearing point of the pressure rod.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein provides a device which a non-linear force/distance relationship of spring or other device and linearizes it in a range of interest. In accordance with the invention, the device comprises a first gear section and a second gear section. The first and second gear sections are pivotally supported in a meshing relationship. The first gear section includes gear teeth extending about an arc of a first circle having a first center, and the second gear section includes gear teeth extending about an arc of a second circle having a second center. The mating pair of sections comprise a non-circular gearing pair. For limited ranges of motion the non-circular gears can be approximated by eccentrically mounted circular gears. The two gear sections thus pivot eccentrically with respect to each other such that a variable torque or force must be applied to one gear section to obtain a constant torque or force from the other gear section, and vice versa.

Abstract: A pedal effort-reduction apparatus according to the present invention comprises a pedal arm and a lever which is movable as one therewith. First and second torsion coil springs are provided between the lever and a support bracket. The first coil spring urges the pedal arm to return to its initial position before the arm, starting from the initial position, reaches a position at a predetermined rotational angle to the initial position. When the pedal passes the predetermined-angle position, the first spring begins to urge the pedal arm in the direction in which it is being pushed. The second spring is attached to the lever so as to urge the pedal arm only in the direction in which it is being pushed. Therefore, when the pedal arm is pushed past the predetermined-angle position, the repulsive force generated by both the first spring and the second spring then acts as a pedal effort-reduction force.

Abstract: A control mechanism for a machine element of the type including a fixed part and a movable part movable between two limit positions, e.g. an automotive vehicle clutch. A spring biasses the movable part to one of its limit positions. The control mechanism comprises a linkage for controlling the displacement of the movable part between its limit positions. A motor drives the linkage, and a resilient device is coupled to the linkage for reducing the force applied by the motor for displacing the movable part between its limit positions.

Abstract: A collapsible segment for a drive train, preferably a collapsible actuator arm for a vertical door opening mechanism, such as that for a garage door. The actuator arm comprises two primary components, first and second arms which are aligned with one end of one arm pivotally engaging one end of the other arm. A spring under tension extends between the arms on one side of the pivotal connection of the arms in order to normally retain the arms in alignment. The arms are formed such that they cannot pivot toward the spring. The arms are attached to the garage door mechanism at appropriate locations at opposite ends of the arms, with at least one of the attachment locations being offset from the arms on the other side of the pivotal connection such that when compressive force is applied to the arms, and when the force of the spring has been overcome, the arms are urged to pivot about the pivotal connection away from the spring, thus collapsing the actuator mechanism.

Abstract: A mechanical mechanism is incorporated with two slotted discs -27- and -25- with two levers -14- and -16- which are inserted in the slots separating discs -27- and -25- to the length of the tips of levers -14- and -16-. Shifting the levers through the movement of activating shaft -2- which in turn moves impeller -7- creating, under the power of the coaster sprocket drive, a variation of speeds, though applied pressure. Stationary disc -27- being integrated with the bicycle retaining cylinder and floating disc -25- being free of the retaining cylinder will now be compelled only by the revolution of speed transmitted by the coaster sprocket drive. the structure and components of this invention are totally enclosed, minimizing difficulties in operation as one may shift into different speeds without flaws.

Abstract: An activating device, in particular a clutch activating device for vehicles equipped with a clutch pedal mounted on a stationary pivot. The clutch pedal is connected to a drive mechanism controlling the activating force of the pedal. The drive mechanism includes a control lever on which an intermediate lever connected to the clutch pedal is held. The drive mechanism includes a first lever joint with the control lever, which is acted upon by a compression spring and which is swivel mounted on a stationary pivot, as well as the attached intermediate lever. This forms a second lever joint with an activating lever of the pedal. The assembly forms an increasing effective lever arm when the pedal is depressed such that the activating force of the clutch pedal is maintained at a substantially constant level for at least a portion of the clutch disengaging process.

Abstract: A valve control linkage is disclosed which provides a variable rate of relative motion between a valve spool and a control lever. The relative rate of valve spool displacement with respect to the lever motion is lowest adjacent the neutral position of the lever.

Abstract: A brake pedal linkage includes a pair of levers (18,20), a first connecting member (26) and a second connecting member (28). The first connecting member defines a lost-motion connection with a master cylinder and the second connecting member defines a lost-motion connection with one of the pair of levers. The first connecting member extends between a brake pedal and a master cylinder and cooperates with the pair of levers such that the master cylinder travel is greater than the brake pedal during an initial stage of braking, less than the brake pedal during an intermediate stage of braking, and equal to the brake pedal during a final stage of braking.

Abstract: A hand-operated lever linkage control suitable for use as a motorcycle clutch control, comprising a housing attached to a vehicle, a lever assembly pivotally mounted in the housing and connected to a control linkage and a spring-tensioned pivoting eccentric arrangement in the housing and connected to the lever assembly for mechanically assisting lever travel during actuation of the control linkage. This spring-tensioned pivoting eccentric arrangement includes a pair of fulcrum pivots rotatably mounted in opposing sides of the housing forward of the lever assembly, a rigid member eccentrically mounted between the fulcrum pivots and rotatable therewith, rigid linkage arms connecting this rigid member to the lever assembly and a coil spring tensioned between the housing and the rigid member for urging pivotal movement of this eccentric assembly and for providing a mechanical advantage through the linkage arms to assist lever travel during actuation of the control linkage.

Abstract: An improved brake lever assembly of the overcenter toggle type is disclosed, wherein the brake operating lever is preferably pivotally connected with the stationary mounting plate assembly about a pivot axis that is laterally displaced from the linear axis of travel of an inner cable member relative to the concentrically arranged tubular outer sheath, thereby to reduce wear of the inner cable guide means. According to a first feature of the invention, an improved anchor plate or anchor plate arrangement is provided for connecting one end of the outer sheath member with one end of the stationary mounting plate assembly. In accordance with a second feature, a ratchet and pawl assembly is provided for releasably locking the operating lever in various angular positions relative to the mounting plate assembly.

Abstract: This specification discloses an off-road vehicle employing an improved hydrostatic drive system including engine driven variable displacement pumps having respective actuating members for varying displacement in two directions equivalent to forward and reverse directions, wheel motors at each wheel representing hydraulic actuating device operable by the fluid from the pump, hydraulic reservoir, serially interconnecting supply and return lines, and an improvement comprising one or more operator control members and a sensitivity control means for controlling the range of movement of the actuating member responsive to movement of the operating control member in a respective direction. Also disclosed is a preferred embodiment in which four wheel hydrostatic drive is employed with an option of converting the hydraulic fluid output that normally goes to one set of wheels such that all of the fluid goes to the other set of wheels for road speed operation.

Abstract: A brake cable operating lever is disclosed including a device for adjusting the cable tension which is produced when the operating lever is in the brake-on position, characterized in that the rotary tension adjusting screw (36) which extends axially of the operating lever includes intermediate its ends an annular collar portion (36a) that is rotatably supported by an abutment shoulder (20f) on the operating lever (20), whereby the apparatus remains operable even if the manual operating knob (38) were to be removed from the screw member. An internal friction producing device (40) is provided for restricting rotation of the screw member about its axis.

Abstract: A mechanical linkage device is provided for replacing the master and slave cylinders and associated parts in a hydraulic vehicular clutch system to convert the system to direct mechanical operation. The linkage device, provided in kit form and installable as a unit, is attached by welding to one end of the pre-existing cross shaft in the clutch system, and includes an elongated actuating rod one end of which is pivotally attached in the linkage device and the other end of which engages the throw-out fork of the clutch system in place of the pre-existing slave cylinder piston rod. The point of pivotal attachment can be varied relative to the axis of rotation of the cross shaft, and the effective length of the actuating rod can also be adjusted, to adapt the linkage device for proper installation and operation in a given vehicular clutch system.

Abstract: The invention provides a brake operating device wherein an operating lever pivoted on a frame transmits an applied force with a variable ratio through a roller and cam-lever mechanism to the brake linkage. A two-armed cam lever is pivoted on the frame and has one arm connected to the brake linkage and on its other arm there is provided a cam track upon which is guided a roller rotatably mounted on the operating lever. There is a recess in the cam lever in the vicinity of its pivot mount and this recess has an approximately semi-circular configuration to receive the roller when the operating lever is in its release position. The cam track on the cam lever is disposed between the pivot mount of the operating lever and the pivot mount of the roller on the operating lever.

Abstract: A ratio changing mechanism is provided for combining two mechanical input signals to produce an output signal. The mechanism includes a first crank mounted on a pivoted link with an input member mounted on the first crank. The mechanical inputs are applied to the input member which moves the crank in such a manner that an output signal is transmitted from one arm of the crank. Movement of the first crank is modified by connection of the other crank arm to a second crank which is adjustable in position to change the ratio of the output to the combined input signals.