Methode Electronics Malta Ltd.

Konrad Slanec

The invention relates to a sensor unit, integrated in a pedal-box, for the determination of the angular position of a pedal lever (), in the form of an inductive non-contact separation sensor, comprising a stationary sensor head () and a sensor element (), moving with the pedal lever (). The sensor head (), oriented transverse to the pedal axis (), is directed at the sensor element (), which moves with the pivoting pedal lever () in the direction of the main sensor, such as to alter the separation. The separation of the sensor head () and the sensor element () influences the electrical signal generated by the sensor head (), from the values of which, inferences can be drawn about the position of the pedal. Two adjacent pedal levers () are arranged on a common housing (), each with one of the integrated sensor heads ().

Pedal arrangement for a motor vehicle with a displacement sensor unit

A setting device for a vehicle having a mechanically adjustable part in which a sensor assigned to the mechanically adjustable part generates sensor signals corresponding to the positions of the part. An initial range of the sensor values is assigned to an inoperative position of the part and covers the varying initial positions of the part. An evaluation device stores a longer constant signal in the initial range as an intermediate value. A longer constant sensor signal is compared with the intermediate value after the initial range is exceeded and after the subsequent return into this range. If it is established that both values are approximately of the same magnitude, the evaluation device stores this value as an initial value. As a result, the inoperative position of the part is reliably verified without the use of additional auxiliary components or steps.

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St. Julians, Malta

Konrad Slanec