Patent ID: 6393934
Filing Date: 2002-05-28
Classification: B60T,G05G,Y10T

Abstract:
A pedal assembly (10) for use in a vehicle comprising:a pedal arm (12) having a pivot (14) for movable connection to a vehicle structure (16) to allow said pedal arm (12) to pivot in a normal operating range between a rest position and a fully applied position under a predetermined normal operating load; and a mechanism (18, 46) connecting said pedal arm (12) to a brake system (20) for transmitting normal operating loads therebetween; said mechanism comprising a fuse (22, 50) for allowing said pedal arm (12) to move independently from the brake system (20) in response to a predetermined load, said fuse (22, 50) being frangible for destruction in response to said predetermined load and a pocket member (24, 52) supporting said fuse (22, 50) and for receiving a replacement fuse (22), said fuse (22, 50) including a central portion (34, 62), said pocket member (24, 52) presenting an open space (44, 54) adjacent said central portion (34, 62) of said fuse (22, 50), a rod (26) for insertion into said pocket member (24, 52) for abutting said central portion (34, 62) for transmitting said normal operating loads through said pocket member (24, 52) and for breaking said fuse (22, 50) to separate and move said central portion (34, 62) into said open space (44, 54).