Patent Publication Number: US-10323733-B2

Title: Vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster having a visible brake bias ratio indicator and method and apparatus for retrofitting a vehicle with a vehicle braking system brake bias adjustment knob assembly having a visible brake bias ratio indicator

Description:
PRIORITY CLAIM 
     This application is continuation of, claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/813,921, which was filed on Jul. 30, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part application of, claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/552,947, which was filed on Nov. 25, 2014, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,266,509 on Feb. 23, 2016, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     All race cars have an engine speed monitor called a tachometer or revolution counter. However, the race car braking system, which dissipates energy the engine produces in propelling the race car, has had no brake force monitor (even though the braking system can dissipate engine power in a few seconds, and is thus in one sense more powerful than the engine). Many race cars have adjustment capability for the driver to change the ratio of front to rear brake pressure and therefore, relative braking force. Certain race cars also (or alternatively) have adjustment requirements or capability for the driver to change the ratio of right wheel to left wheel front brake pressure and therefore, relative braking force. There is a need for a monitor for brake force adjustments in race cars, and to provide the driver with the knowledge of how the brake forces are distributed, which enhances race car performance and provides enhanced safety. 
     More specifically, race cars typically include a vehicle braking system with a brake bias adjuster which enhances and facilitates optimization of race car performance. The brake bias adjuster enables the driver to adjust and set a bias between the front brakes and the rear brakes of the braking system of the race car (and/or between the right and left front brakes of the braking system of the race car). Front brake bias enhances straight line braking (i.e., braking that occurs when the race car is moving in a straight line). This is because under heavy braking during straight line movement, weight distribution moves or transfers toward the front of the race car which enables the race car to slow down faster. Front brake bias also increases the chance of locking the front wheels of the race car during non-straight line movement or turning. On the other hand, rear brake bias provides a lighter braking force which assists in controlling the race car during non-straight line movement or turning that require braking. If too much rear brake force is exerted, relative to the front brakes, the rear tires will “lock up” and the race car can rotate or “spin out,” possibly creating an unsafe or dangerous condition. 
     One problem with known commercially available brake bias adjusters is that the driver cannot quickly and easily determine the relative front to back brake bias or brake bias setting (or right to left front brake bias or brake bias setting) while driving the race car. More specifically, known commercially available brake bias adjusters generally include: (a) a biasing mechanism coupled to the pedal assembly of the race car; (b) a brake bias adjustment knob; and (c) a connection cable such as a flexible shaft attached at one end to the brake bias adjustment knob and at the other end to the biasing mechanism coupled to the brake pedal assembly. In various commercially available braking systems, the biasing mechanism includes: (a) an internally threaded fulcrum device between the two master cylinders of the brake pedal assembly; (b) a pivoting bearing in the middle of the fulcrum that is configured to move or slide back and forth relative to the threaded fulcrum; and (c) a threaded shaft mounted in the pivoting bearing which causes the pivoting bearing to move or slide relative to the threaded fulcrum. When the brake bias adjustment knob is rotated, the connection cable rotates, and the threaded fulcrum shaft rotates, which causes leverage or bias or ratio of force distribution between the front and rear brakes to be changed. However, these known commercially available brake bias adjustment knobs do not visually indicate the position of the sliding bearing which is moved by the threaded shaft (in specific relative position or in specific number of turns) from one end of the pivoting bearing housing to the other end of the pivoting bearing housing. In other words, no visible specific indication exists to enable the driver to learn the bearing pivot position. When a driver looks at a known brake bias adjustment knob, the driver cannot determine: (a) the amount of brake bias toward the front or rear brakes; (b) if there is no bias set at all; or (c) if the bias is incorrectly set. This means that the driver must: (a) remember at all times how the brake bias adjuster is set (including the original setting and all adjustments made by the driver before and during the race); and/or (b) before each competition or event, turn the knob and the threaded shaft all the way in one direction to move the bearing pivot to the extreme front or rear brake position and then count the turns or rotations away from that position and remember the new position. 
     It is also virtually impossible for the driver to actually learn or know where the brake bias is set once a race car is in motion. The reason for this is that the only reference point is counting turns of an unmarked knob that adjusts the threaded fulcrum either from the fully front brake position or the full rear brake position. Once the race car is in motion, and the brakes are applied, the knob and cable are unable to turn because of the force exerted by the driver when pressing on the brake pedal locks the sliding bearing and prevents it from moving laterally. A race car driver has to use the brakes in a competition many times a lap. This lack of knowledge as to where the brake bias is set prevents the driver from turning the knob and applying the brakes simultaneously. The driver can either rotate the knob and therefore the adjustment at the brake bias bar in the brake pedal housing or apply the brakes of the car, but can&#39;t to both simultaneously. Commonly, drivers count the turns from either the front of the rear end of the travel of the pivot bearing. This cannot be done, once again, if the brakes are applied. 
     To solve these problems, there is a need for braking system with a brake bias adjuster which enables the driver to quickly learn or know, preferably visually, where the brake proportion is set for the car and firstly, verify the position of the brake bias and if needed, easily set, adjust, and determine the relative brake bias or brake bias setting of the vehicle (such as race car before and during a race). There is also a need for a method and apparatus for quickly and easily retrofitting existing vehicles (such as race cars) with a vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster which enables the driver to quickly and easily set, adjust, and determine the relative brake bias or brake bias setting of the vehicle (such as the race car before and during a race, and after a race for reference, or for the next time on that particular racetrack). 
     It should also be appreciated that many forms of racing include racing on a dry track and also at times racing on a drying track such as in dirt or off road racing or in road racing, in drizzle or rain. This requires more braking force to be added, relatively, to the rear brakes, and thus presents an additional need for the present disclosure. 
     It should further be appreciated that when fuel is added to a race car during an event, the brake force normally is changed to add more brake force to the end of the car with the fuel tank. When complicated with changing drivers, there is even more of a need for a reference for the brake force as provided by the present disclosure. 
     It should further be appreciated that different race cars, different race tracks, different race types, different race conditions, and different levels of driver experience further complicate these problems, and that there is a need for references for the brake force which take into account different race cars, different race tracks, different race types, different race conditions, and different levels of driver experience. 
     Accordingly, there is a need to solve these problems, to assist the driver in all of these situations, and to enable the driver to know how the brake ratio is set at all times. 
     SUMMARY 
     Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed a brake bias adjuster of a vehicle braking system which includes a brake bias adjustment knob assembly having a visible brake bias ratio indicator which enables the driver to quickly and easily verify the brake bias relative setting while the vehicle is in motion, and to set, adjust, and determine the relative brake bias or brake bias setting (i.e., the ratio of front to rear brake biasing) of the vehicle (such as a race car) before and while driving the vehicle (such as before and especially on a pace lap prior to the race starting or during a race). The brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure can be employed for front to rear brake bias adjusters as well as for right to left brake bias adjusters. It should be appreciated that the present disclosure primarily discusses example front to rear brake bias adjusters, but such disclosure is not meant to limit the present invention. 
     More specifically, various embodiments of the present disclosure provides a vehicle brake bias adjuster with a brake bias adjustment knob assembly having a visible brake bias ratio indicator which indicates the exact amount of brake bias toward the front brakes or the rear brakes, or if the bias is set to a position the driver is familiar with. 
     In one example embodiment, the brake bias adjuster having the visible brake bias ratio indicator of the present disclosure includes: (a) a biasing mechanism attachable to a bias bar element or mechanism of a pedal assembly of a vehicle; (b) a brake bias adjustment knob assembly attachable to a dashboard or in a convenient, visible location inf the vehicle; and (c) a connection cable or flexible shaft attachable at one end to the brake bias adjustment knob and at the other end to the biasing mechanism. The brake bias adjustment knob assembly of this example embodiment includes: (a) a knob; (b) a plurality of springs; (c) a plurality of ball bearings or round balls; (d) a cover plate; (e) a ring gear; (f) a index gear; (e) a base plate; (f) a mounting plate; and (g) a plurality of dashboard fasteners such as a plurality of bolts and a plurality of nuts. The mounting plate defines: (i) a central cable hole; (ii) a plurality of indents around the central cable hole; and (iii) a plurality of dashboard attachment holes. The base plate includes: (i) a generally flat cylindrical base plate body which defines a central opening; (ii) an index gear axle extending upwardly from the base plate body; and (iii) a plurality of bolts or studs or welded studs extending downwardly from the base plate body. The index gear includes a index gear body and a plurality of gear teeth outwardly extending from the index gear body and is mounted on the index gear axle. The ring gear includes a cylindrical ring gear body having a downwardly extending cylindrical side wall and an angled upwardly and inwardly extending cylindrical top wall. The cylindrical side wall includes a plurality of gear teeth which are configured to sequentially mate with the teeth of the index gear. The cylindrical top wall displays a plurality of different brake bias indication symbols on the front face (and/or the out perimeter). The knob has an exterior structure which includes a body having an upper portion and a lower portion connected to the upper portion, two teeth extending outwardly from the lower portion. The teeth are configured to selectively engage a plurality of the teeth of the index gear such that a full rotation of the knob causes a precise partial rotation of the index gear which causes a partial rotation of the ring gear. The knob has an interior structure which defines a central hole configured to receive an end of a connection cable of brake bias adjuster, and which defines two holes each configured to receive and hold a spring and a ball bearing. These two holes can be threaded to enable access to the spring/ball assembly and for maintenance or adding or removing spring pressure. The cover plate includes a cylindrical cover plate body having a downwardly extending cylindrical side wall and an angled upwardly and inwardly extending cylindrical top wall. The cylindrical side wall is attached to the base plate to maintain the knob, the ring gear, and the index gear attached to the base plate. The top wall of the cover plate defines a window which reveals one of the brake bias indication symbols on the ring gear to indicate the relative front to rear brake bias. 
     In another example embodiment, the brake bias adjuster of the present disclosure includes: (a) a knob; (b) one or more knob fasteners which secure the knob to the connection cable; (c) a cover plate or housing; (d) a ring gear; (e) a compound gear; (f) a compound gear mount or axle; (g) an idler gear; (h) an idler gear mount or axle; (i) a base plate; (j) a new or existing mounting plate; and (h) a plurality of dashboard fasteners. This assembly can also include one or more retention devices for the gears such as devices which act as axles or pivots. The knob in this embodiment has a generally cross shape or X shape which includes a plurality of outwardly extending protrusions or arms configured to enable the driver to grip the knob and easily choose and make a quarter rotation, a half rotation, a three-quarters rotation, a full rotation, or more than a full rotation of the knob (without the need for the driver to look at the knob). The cross configuration of the knob provides a visual and tactile reference for the driver to adjust in easily determinable quarter turns. The cross pattern is unlike any known knob in a race car, which are generally round was cylindrical. In this embodiment, the knob further includes an actuation gear extending from a lower portion of the knob. The actuation gear is configured to engage and cause rotation of the compound gear which in turn causes rotation of the idler gear which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear which causes rotation of the cover plate or housing. The front or top wall of the cover plate or housing includes a plurality of the brake bias indication symbols which indicate the amount of front or rear brake bias to the driver, and if there is no front or rear brake bias. The outer diameter of the cover plate can also or alternatively be marked with indications symbols that indicate the amount of brake bias. The outer diameter may be more easily read by the driver, depending on the position of the driver and placement of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly on the vehicle&#39;s dashboard. For night racing, a supplemental light can be installed or utilized exactly above the rotating outer cover, with the light placed at the “reference point” or near the rotating cover and therefore the knob for easy reference in dark or low light conditions. 
     Each of these two example embodiments enables the driver to easily and quickly verify the initial setting of the brake bias and then, if needed, set a different brake bias. Each brake bias indication symbol indicates a different exact amount of brake bias ratio (such as toward the front brakes or toward the rear brakes), or if there is no bias at all. In various embodiments, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly having the visible brake bias ratio indicator of the present disclosure indicates the specific position of the threaded fulcrum in or with respect to the number or quantity of turns, which is generally 12 to 16 full turns from one end of the threaded pivot remaining on the threaded fulcrum of the biasing mechanism of the brake bias adjuster. 
     The present disclosure also provides a method and apparatus for retrofitting an existing vehicle such as a race car with a cable driven brake bias adjustment knob assembly which enables the driver to quickly and easily set, adjust, and determine the relative brake bias or brake bias setting (such as the ratio of front to rear brake biasing or right to left biasing, or both, with two brake bias adjustment knob assemblies installed) of the vehicle such as the race car before and during a race. 
     The present disclosure also provides a vehicle braking system including a brake bias adjuster which includes a brake bias adjustment knob assembly. 
     The present disclosure also provides a vehicle having a vehicle braking system including a brake bias adjuster which includes a brake bias adjustment knob assembly. 
     Additional features and advantages are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the Figures. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster of one example embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrating a brake pedal assembly, having a biasing mechanism, a brake bias adjustment knob assembly, and a connection cable connected to the brake bias adjustment knob assembly and the biasing mechanism. 
         FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of part of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded top perspective view of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of the knob of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a bottom perspective view of the knob of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a top perspective view of the ring gear of the brake bias adjustment knob of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a bottom view of the ring gear of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of the knob assembled with the ring gear of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 9  is a bottom perspective view of the knob assembled with the, the ring gear, and the index gear of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is a top perspective view of the index gear of an alternative example embodiment of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of the knob an alternative example embodiment of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12A  is a perspective view of the vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster of another example embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrating a brake pedal assembly having a biasing mechanism, a brake bias adjustment knob assembly, a connection cable connected to the brake bias adjustment knob assembly and the biasing mechanism, and a first “Front V Rear” label attached to the dashboard (or mounting plate). 
         FIG. 12B  is a perspective view of the vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster of another example embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrating a brake pedal assembly having a biasing mechanism, a brake bias adjustment knob assembly, a connection cable connected to the brake bias adjustment knob assembly and the biasing mechanism, and a second “Rear V Front” label attached to the dashboard (or mounting plate). 
         FIG. 13  is a partial exploded perspective view of part of the example brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14A  is a further exploded perspective view of part of the example brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 12   
         FIG. 14B  is cross-sectional view of the example brake bias adjustment knob of  FIG. 14A  taken substantially along line  14 B- 14 B of  FIG. 14A . 
         FIG. 14C  is cross-sectional view of the example brake bias adjustment knob of  FIG. 14A  with the knob assembly attached to the end of the connection cable. 
         FIG. 15  is a partially exploded bottom perspective view of the example brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 12 , and part of a dashboard (shown in fragmentary) and the end of the connection cable. 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the example brake bias adjustment knob of  FIG. 12  mounted on a dashboard (which is shown in fragmentary). 
         FIG. 17  is a side partially exploded view of the example brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 12 , and a dashboard (which is shown in fragmentary) and the end of the connection cable. 
         FIG. 18  is a bottom view the example brake bias adjustment knob assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 19A  is a top perspective view of part of a brake bias adjustment knob assembly of another example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 19B  is a front view part of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the example embodiment of the  FIG. 19A . 
         FIG. 19C  is a rear view the gearing arrangement for the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the example embodiment of  FIG. 19A . 
         FIG. 20A  is a top perspective view of part of a brake bias adjustment knob assembly of another example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 20B  is a front view part of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the example embodiment of the  FIG. 20A . 
         FIG. 20C  is a rear view the gearing arrangement for the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the example embodiment of  FIG. 20A . 
         FIG. 21A  is a top perspective view of part of a brake bias adjustment knob assembly of another example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 21B  is a front view part of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the example embodiment of the  FIG. 21A . 
         FIG. 21C  is a rear view the gearing arrangement for the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the example embodiment of  FIG. 21A . 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of knob of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 23  is an exploded perspective view of the knob of  FIG. 22 . 
         FIG. 24  is a rear view the gearing arrangement for the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of another example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 25  is a top exploded perspective view of part of a brake bias adjustment knob assembly of another example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 26  is a top perspective view of an alternative the brake bias adjuster knob of one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 27  is a bottom perspective view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 28  is a front view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 26 , the rear view being a mirror image thereof. 
         FIG. 29  is a left side view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 26 , the right side view being a mirror image thereof. 
         FIG. 30  is a top view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 31  is a bottom view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 26  taken substantially through line  32 - 32  of  FIG. 28 . 
         FIG. 33  is a top perspective view of an alternative the brake bias adjuster knob of one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 34  is a bottom perspective view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 33 . 
         FIG. 35  is a front view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 33 , the rear view being a mirror image thereof. 
         FIG. 36  is a left side view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 33 , the right side view being a mirror image thereof. 
         FIG. 37  is a top view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 33 . 
         FIG. 38  is a bottom view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 33 . 
         FIG. 39  is a cross-sectional view of the brake bias adjuster knob of  FIG. 33  taken substantially through line  39 - 39  of  FIG. 35 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring now to the drawings, one specific example embodiment of the vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster of the present disclosure is illustrated in  FIG. 1 , and generally indicated by numeral  40 . The brake bias adjuster of the present disclosure enables the driver to quickly and easily set, adjust, and accurately determine a bias or ratio of leverage or relative pressure between the front or first brakes and the rear or second brakes of the braking system of a vehicle (such as a race car). Although not described in detail herein, the brake bias adjuster of the present disclosure can also be configured to enable the driver to quickly and easily set, adjust, and accurately determine a bias or ratio of leverage or relative pressure between the right (first) front brakes and left (second) front brakes of the braking system of a vehicle (such as a race car). 
     The example brake bias adjuster  40  of this illustrated example embodiment generally includes: (a) a biasing mechanism  60  attached to a pedal assembly  20  of a vehicle (not shown); (b) a brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  attachable to a dashboard (not shown) of the vehicle (not shown); and (c) a connection cable or flexible shaft  90  attached at one end to the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  and at the other end to the biasing mechanism  60 . The biasing mechanism  60  in this illustrated embodiment includes: (a) a threaded fulcrum device between the two master cylinders of the brake pedal assembly; (b) a pivoting bearing in the middle of the fulcrum that is configured to move or slide back and forth relative to the fulcrum, which is attached to the brake pedal assembly, either mounted above the drivers feet or mounted below the driver&#39;s feet; and (c) a bolt-like device or threaded shaft which turns the threaded pivot on the internally threaded fulcrum clevis mounts that individually actuate both the front and rear brakes. As further described below, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  includes a knob  100 . When knob  100  of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  rotates, the connection cable  90  rotates, and the threaded shaft rotates, which causes leverage or bias between the front and rear brakes to change. The brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  indicates the relative amount of brake bias toward the front brakes, the rear brakes, or if there is no bias at all. More specifically, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  indicates the position of the threaded shaft in turns from one end of the threaded pivot remaining on the threaded fulcrum of the biasing mechanism. This enables the driver to quickly and easily set, adjust, and determine the brake bias and eliminate the need for the driver to remember at all times how the brake bias adjuster is set (including the original setting and all adjustments made to the front to rear bias by the driver of the vehicle such as before and during a race). It should be that  FIG. 1  shows a pendulum or hanging pedal system, and that the pedal assembly can be inverted through a configuration which enables floor mounting of the entire assembly as generally shown in  FIGS. 12A and 12B . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 , the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  of this illustrated example of present disclosure includes: (a) a knob  100 ; (b) springs  200  and  210 ; (c) ball bearings  300  and  310 ; (d) a cover plate  400 ; (e) a ring gear  500 ; (f) a index gear  600 ; (e) a base plate  700 ; (f) a mounting plate  800 ; and (g) a plurality of dashboard fasteners such as bolts  900  and  910  and nuts  920  and  930 . 
     More specifically, the knob  100  is configured to be rotated by the driver of the vehicle to rotate the connection cable  90  to change the brake bias. The knob  100  has a knob body having an exterior structure (best shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 , and  8 ) which includes a generally cylindrical body  110  having an upper portion  114  and a base or lower portion  112  connected to the upper portion  114 . The upper portion  114  has a plurality of protrusions  116  and defines a plurality of indentations  118  which facilitate gripping of the knob  100  by the driver. The knob  100  includes one or more teeth such as the two teeth  130  and  132  which extend outwardly from the base or lower portion  112 . These teeth  130  and  132  are configured to each engage and cause rotation of the index gear  600  (as best shown in  FIG. 5 ) which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear  500  (as also best shown in  FIG. 5 ) as further discussed below. 
     In this illustrated embodiment, the teeth  130  and  132  engage the teeth  620  of the index gear  600  once for every revolution of the knob  100 , which in turn will cause rotation of the ring gear  500  one brake bias indication symbol interval as further discussed below. In other words, as further discussed below, the ring gear  500  will rotate to change the displayed brake bias indication symbol for every complete full rotation of the knob  100 . 
     This illustrated knob  100  has two set screw receiving channels including illustrated channel  140  that enable set screws (not shown) to be used to attach the knob  100  to the end (not shown) of the end of the connection cable  90  and for easy calibration of the knob  100  relative to the connection cable  90 . This also enables the driver (or a mechanic) to initially set the neutral position, or a position number that corresponds to either full front brakes or full rear brakes, at a specific number location on the ring gear  500 . 
     The knob body of the knob  100  also includes an interior structure  150  (best shown in  FIGS. 5 and 8 ) which defines a central cylindrical hole  152  configured to receive the end (not shown) of the connection cable  90 . The interior structure  150  defines two cylindrical holes  154  and  156  (on both sides of the central hole  152 ) and configured to respectively receive and hold the springs  200  and  210  and the ball bearings  300  and  310 . These spring and ball mechanisms work with the detents  830 ,  832 ,  834 , and  836  formed in the base plate  700  (as best shown in  FIG. 3 ) to provide the driver a tactile feel and at least some audible determinant for motion of the knob, for each quarter rotation of the knob  100  as further explained below. 
     The knob  100  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the knob can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the knob can be of other suitable configurations and sizes, including fast adjustment levers (not shown) which enable even faster turning of the knob. 
     The cover plate  400  (best shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ) is attachable to the base plate  700  and holds the ring gear  500  in place without applying resistance to the knob  100  or the ring gear  500 . This enables smooth rotation of the knob  100  and of the ring gear  500 . More specifically, this illustrated embodiment, the cover plate  400  includes a cylindrical cover plate body  410  having a downwardly extending cylindrical side wall  420  and an angled upwardly and inwardly extending cylindrical top wall  430 . The cylindrical wall  420  is configured to snap fit with the body  710  of the base plate  700  to maintain the knob  100 , the ring gear  500 , and the index gear  600  attached to the base plate  700 . It should be appreciated that other suitable attachment mechanisms may be employed in accordance with the present disclosure. In one alternative embodiment where the base plate is steel, the base plate will be coated with a suitable coating such as PTFE for providing a low friction surface, a consistent tactile force, and corrosion resistance. 
     The top wall  430  of the cover plate  400  defines a relatively small opening or window  434  which is configured to reveal one of the brake bias indication symbols such as one of the different numbers on the ring gear  500  which indicates the relative front to rear brake bias. In this example embodiment, the front to rear brake bias is indicated by the symbols or numbers 1 through 16, where 1 represents the front most brake bias and 16 represent the rear most brake bias. Conversely, a driver or mechanic can choose to the opposite where the maximum For one setting, full front brake bias is 16 and full rear brake bias is 1. However, if the front and rear master cylinders are mounted in the opposite manner, the symbol or number displayed through the window of  434  would be a different value. It should be appreciated that the symbol or number progresses as more front brake bias is selected. The opening or window  434  only displays one number at a time in this illustrated embodiment. In alternative embodiments, the size of the window can be larger such that more than one brake bias indication symbol can be seen to remind the driver which way to turn the knob  100  to change the brake bias in the desired direction. It should be appreciated that the brake bias indication symbols can be any suitable symbols. 
     In other various embodiments, a fine tuning knob engraving system is incorporated so that the approximately 360 degrees of rotation can be noted in a percentage (such as 1 to 100) or in 10% increments which provides for finer adjustment so the driver can select and reselect a finer adjustment of the bias and between the digits. For instance, the assembly can indicate quarter turn adjustments as well as full 360 degree rotations. 
     The cover plate in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable spun mild steel. However, it should be appreciated that the cover plate can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the cover plate can be of other suitable configurations, including a fast rotation handle adapter and other sizes to accommodate smaller or larger vehicle dashboards or control. 
     The ring gear  500  includes a cylindrical ring gear body  510  having a downwardly extending cylindrical side wall  520  and an angled upwardly and inwardly extending cylindrical top wall  530 . The inner surface of the cylindrical side wall  520  includes a plurality of gear teeth  540 . These teeth  540  are configured to mate with the teeth of the index gear  600 . The ring gear  500  includes or displays the brake bias indications symbols numbers  550 . In this illustrated embodiment, the ring gear  500  is configured to rotate the length of two teeth for every full rotation of the knob  100 . The length of two teeth corresponds to one brake bias indication symbol or number increment in this example embodiment. Accordingly, for every full rotation of the knob  100 , the ring gear  500  will either increase or decrease one number  550  shown in the display window  434  of the cover  400 . It should also be appreciated that the numbering system can be reversed. It should further be appreciated that the symbols or numbers can be fluorescent and that the system can include other methods or mechanisms for lighting the entire assembly or least the numbered window for night driving such as night racing. 
     The ring gear  500  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the ring gear can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the ring gear can be of other suitable configurations and markings and sizes. 
     It should be appreciated that suitable adhesive labels, decals, or stickers in the form of a curved arrow that can be provided in accordance with the present disclosure to enable the driver quick reference as to which way to turn the knob to add or subtract braking force that the driver desires. These labels, decals, or stickers can indicate either clockwise or counterclockwise rotation for front braking and also for rear braking. It should also be appreciated that certain cars have master cylinders mounted front to the right of the brake pedal and some are reversed and that multiple different labels, decals, or stickers (such as both directional labels, decals, and sticker arrows) can be provided to account for this in accordance with the present disclosure. 
     The index gear  600  has an index gear body  610  and a plurality of outwardly extending teeth  620  (best shown in  FIG. 9 ). The body  610  defines a central hole  605  for mounting on the index gear axle  730  extending upwardly from the base plate  700  as best shown in  FIG. 3 . The teeth  620  are configured to engage and mate with the teeth  540  of the ring gear  500  to cause rotation of the ring gear  500 . The teeth  620  are also configured to be selectively engaged by and mate with the teeth  130  and  132  of the knob  100  such that a full rotation of the knob cause a partial rotation (such as 120 degrees) of the index gear  600  which in turn causes a partial rotation (i.e., two teeth lengths or 22.5 degrees) of the ring gear  500  in this illustrated embodiment. 
     The index gear  600  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the index gear can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the index gear can be of other suitable configurations and sizes and coated with low friction, anti wear coatings. 
     The base plate  700  includes a generally flat cylindrical base plate body  710  which defines a central opening  705 . The index gear axle  730  extends upwardly from the base plate  700  as best shown in  FIG. 3 . Two fasteners such as welded studs or bolts  900  and  910  each extend downwardly from the base plate  700  and are employed to attach the entire brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  to the dashboard (not shown) of the vehicle (not shown) such as a race car. In this illustrated embodiment, the bolts  900  and  910  are welded to the bottom of the base plate  700 . The base plate  700  connects and is bonded to with suitable adhesives or fastening devices with the cover  400  to hold all the parts of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  together. The base plate  700  is also configured to coact with the mounting plate  800  for attaching these parts to a dashboard, and to work with the mounting plates of existing brake bias adjustment knob assemblies for retrofitting vehicles as further described below. 
     The base plate  700  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable metal such as mild steel or stainless steel. However, it should be appreciated that the base plate can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the base plate can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. It should be appreciated that the base plate can be coated with a low friction, anti-wear, and corrosion resistant coating as mentioned above. 
     The illustrated mounting plate  800  includes a generally square plate  810  which defines a central cable hole  840 , four space apart indents  830 ,  832 ,  834 , and  836  positioned around the center cable hole  840 , and four dashboard attachment holes at the respective corners. The central cable hole  840  enables the connection cable  90  to extend through the mounting plate to the knob  100 . The space apart indents  830 ,  832 ,  834 , and  836  are configured to sequentially each receive the spring biased ball bearings  300  and  310 , such that each time the knob  100  rotates a quarter turn or ninety degrees, the balls  300  and  310  move out of two of the spaced apart indents and then extend into another two of the space apart indents, thereby providing a tactile feedback for the driver without the need for the driver to look at the knob  100 . It should be appreciated that other suitable configurations of base plate  800  can be employed, such as including an eight detent plate that has eight positions (or more) for particular adaptations. 
     The mounting plate  800  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable metal such as mild steel or stainless steel. However, it should be appreciated that the mounting plate can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the mounting plate can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. It should be appreciated that the mounting plate can be coated with a low friction, anti-wear, and corrosion resistant coating. 
     It should also be appreciated that the respective sizes of various of the components may be varied in accordance with the present disclosure. For example: (1) the size of the teeth on the knob  100 , index gear  600  and ring gear  500  may vary; (2) the height of the knob  100  may be increased to enable easier rotation of the knob  100 ; and (3) the height of the cylindrical wall  420  may be increased to provide a better snap fit with the base plate body  710 . 
     Installation on Completely New Vehicle 
     In one embodiment, to install a brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  of the present disclosure on a vehicle (such as a race car) which does not have a brake bias adjustment knob, the installer attaches the mounting plate  800  to dashboard using two rivets (not shown) extending through the dashboard attachment holes in opposing corners in the mounting plate  800 . The installer then attaches the base plate  700  to the mounting plate  800  by inserting the two bolts  900  and  910  (extending from the new base plate  700 ) through the other two dashboard attachment holes in opposing corners of the mounting plate  800 . The installer attaches the two locking, vibration resistant nuts  920  and  930  to the bolts  900  and  910  to hold the base plate  700  onto the mounting plate  800  and the dashboard (not shown) of the vehicle (not shown). It should be appreciated that the nuts can be lock nuts that multiple nuts can be employed, and that washers or lock washers can also be employed. It should also be appreciated that the mounting plate may be attached to the dashboard in other suitable manners. It should further be appreciated that the base plate may be attached to the mounting plate and the dashboard in other suitable manners. The installer than attaches the rest of the components of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  to the base plate  700 . More specifically, index gear  600  is mounted on the index gear axle  730 , the knob  100 , the springs  200  and  210 , ball bearings  300  and  310  are suitably positioned and knob  100  is attached to the end (not shown) of the connection cable  90  using the set screws (not shown), the ring gear  500  is positioned over and in engagement with the index gear  600 , and the cover plate  400  is attached to the base plate  700 . It should be appreciated that the installer installs the brake bias adjustment knob assembly so that it is either at  1  or  16  depending on the setting of the front brake bias or rear brake bias and the location of the master cylinders. 
     Installation on Existing Vehicle 
     In one embodiment, to install a brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure on an existing vehicle (such as a race car) with a commercially available brake bias adjustment knob, the installer turns the existing knob all the way in one direction (i.e., either to fully front brake bias or fully rear brake bias) and removes the existing knob by taking out the set screw(s) in the existing knob and notes the position of the protruding cable end and particularly the flat portion of the protruding cable end. The installer does not remove the existing mounting plate. Rather, the installer drills out two of the rivets that hold that existing mounting plate to the dashboard (not shown) of the vehicle (not shown). The installer then attaches the base plate  700  and the rest of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  80  to that existing mounting plate by inserting the two bolts  900  and  910  (extending from the bottom of the base plate  700 ) through the two drilled out dashboard attachment holes in opposing corners of that existing mounting plate. The installer then attaches the two nuts  920  and  930  to the bolts  900  and  910  to hold the base plate  700  onto that existing mounting plate and the dashboard (not shown). It should be appreciated that the nuts can be lock nuts, that multiple nuts can be employed, and that washers or lock washers can also be employed. 
     Alternative Embodiment of Index Gear 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , an alternative embodiment of the index gear of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure is generally illustrated and indicated by numeral  1600 . The index gear  1600  has a index gear body  1610  and a plurality of outwardly extending full teeth  1620  which are configured to engage the teeth of the ring gear and a plurality of outwardly extending half teeth  1622  which are configured to be engaged by the body of the knob (illustrated in  FIG. 11  and further explained below). The body  1610  defines a central hole  1605  for mounting on the index gear axle extending upwardly from the base plate  700  as best shown in  FIG. 3 . The teeth  1620  and  1622  are configured to engage and mate with the teeth  540  of the ring gear  500  to cause rotation of the ring gear  500 . The teeth  1620  and  1622  are also configured to be selectively engaged by and mate with the teeth  130  and  132  of the knob such that a full rotation of the knob cause a partial rotation (such as 120 degrees) of the index gear  1600  which in turn causes a partial rotation (i.e., two teeth lengths or 22.5 degrees) of the ring gear in this illustrated embodiment. 
     The index gear  1600  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the index gear can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the index gear can be of other suitable configurations and sizes and coated with low friction, anti wear coatings. 
     Alternative Embodiment of Knob 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , an alternative embodiment of the knob of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure is generally illustrated and indicated by numeral  1100 . The knob  1100  is configured to be rotated by the driver of the vehicle to rotate the connection cable  90  to change the brake bias. The knob  1100  has a knob body having an exterior structure which includes a generally cylindrical body  1110  having an upper portion  1114  and a base or lower portion  1112  connected to the upper portion  1114 . The upper portion  1114  has a plurality of protrusions  1116  and indentations  1118  which facilitate gripping of the knob  1100  by the driver. The knob  1100  includes one or more index gear teeth receiving slots  1133  which extend inwardly from the base or lower portion  1112  or an outwardly extending ledge or flange that defines the lower portion  1112 . The walls that define the index gear teeth receiving slot are configured to each engage and cause rotation of the index gear  1600  which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear. 
     The knob  1100  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the knob can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the knob can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. 
     Alternative Embodiment of Brake Bias Adjuster 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 12A, 12B, 13, 14A, 14B, 14C, 15, 16, 17, and 18 , another specific example embodiment of the brake bias adjuster is illustrated and generally indicated by number  2040 . The brake bias adjuster  2040  generally includes: (a) a biasing mechanism  2060  attached to a pedal assembly  2020  of a vehicle (not shown); (b) a brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  attachable to a dashboard  3000  (partially shown in  FIGS. 15, 16, and 17 ) of the vehicle (not shown); and (c) a connection cable or flexible shaft  2090  attached at one end to the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  and at the other end to the biasing mechanism  2060 . The biasing mechanism  2060  in this illustrated embodiment includes: (a) a threaded fulcrum device between the master cylinders of the brake pedal assembly; (b) a pivoting bearing attached to and in the middle of the fulcrum that is configured to move or slide back and forth relative to the fulcrum, which is attached to the brake pedal assembly, either mounted above the drivers feet or mounted below the driver&#39;s feet; and (c) a bolt-like device or threaded shaft which turns the threaded pivot on the internally threaded fulcrum clevis mounts that individually actuate both the front and rear brakes. As further described below, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  includes a knob  2100  securely attachable to the connection cable  2090 . When the knob  2100  of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  rotates, the connection cable  2090  rotates, and the threaded shaft rotates which changes the ratio of force distribution between the front and rear brakes. The brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  indicates the relative amount of brake bias toward the front brakes, the rear brakes, or if there is no bias at all. 
     More specifically, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  specifically indicates the position of the threaded shaft in turns from one end of the threaded pivot remaining on the threaded fulcrum of the biasing mechanism. For example, if the threaded fulcrum is five turns from one end of the threaded shaft, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  specifically indicates this or a representation of this to the driver. This enables the driver to quickly and easily determine the specific then current brake bias and eliminates the need for the driver to remember at all times how the brake bias adjuster is set (including the original setting and all adjustments made to the front to rear bias by the driver of the vehicle such as before and during a race). This also enables the driver to specifically change the brake bias to a specific new setting. 
     As further discussed below, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  can be installed such that either: (1) turning the knob  2100  clockwise increases rear brake bias and decreases front brake bias, and turning the knob  2100  counter-clockwise decreases rear brake bias and increases front brake bias (as show in  FIG. 12A  and indicated by the “Front V Rear” first label of the present disclosure); or (2) turning the knob  2100  clockwise increases front brake bias and decreases rear brake bias, and turning the knob  2100  counter-clockwise increases rear brake bias and decrease front brake bias (as show in  FIG. 12B  and indicated by the “Rear V Front” second label of the present disclosure). Thus, the present disclosure contemplates providing a two label system to account for the orientation of the brake cylinders. 
     This two label system (e.g., the “Front V Rear” label and the “Rear V Front” label) is thus adapted for various different cars. For example, this system is adapted for a car with the front brake cylinder which is mounted on the left side facing the front of the car in the driver&#39;s seat (i.e., mounted to the left of the center line of the brake assembly). In this configuration, if the driver turns the knob  2100  to the right, the driver will be moving the pivot bearing towards the left side of the car which shortens the distance between pivot bearing and the clevis which causes more pressure to be transmitted to the front brake cylinder. The reason this works is that the fulcrum device includes threaded cylinders. As explained above, the threaded cylinders enable the pivot threaded rod to move forward and backward. The center pivot includes a spherical bearing that enables many degrees of rotation of the bearing shell or outer portion within the tube of the brake pedal. Turning the knob turns the connection cable which turns the threaded rod which in turn moves the spherical bearing that is the actual fulcrum to the left or to the right of the brake pedal. This lengthens or shortens the distance between the front brake and rear brake respective clevis or the threaded pivot for the front and rear brake, changing the ratio of pressure between the two brake cylinders, front and rear. 
     As mentioned above, the brake system master cylinders can be mounted either: (a) front on the left and rear on the right, or (b) vice versa. The two label system contemplated by the present disclosure and generally illustrated in  FIGS. 12A and 12B  solves this problem by overcoming the problems with using a round knob with an arrow within the center of this round knob. This system enables the user to turn the knob in any amount of rotation because the present arrow label system denoting front and rear bias is mounted firmly and vertically above the knob. This system ensures that the driver is never unable to see the directional arrow as to which way to turn the knob for front and rear bias. This system overcomes the problems with arrows in the middle of the knob which may be useless when the knob is upside down. It should be appreciated that directional arrows in the middle of the knob is less useful because the driver may want a setting which is a half turn or a quarter turn which inverts the writing on the knob from the perspective of the driver. This would create confusion at minimum, and possibly could create an error in which way to turn the knob. The present disclosure enables illumination (such as in dark conditions or at night racing) because a small light can be placed above the label which would further prevent the driver from having to question where the knob is set. It should also be appreciated that the labels can be of a suitable light reflecting material. 
     As mentioned above, certain cars enable a change of the brake bias ratio between the two front wheels. This enables the car to turn more aggressively into a corner by essentially shutting off one of the brakes (i.e., the brake on the left front wheel or the brake on the right front wheel). As indicated above, the present disclosure can be used to provide that type of adjustment by connecting it to the threaded adapter within the car. In such case, the knob and the labeling system would provide the driver knowledge as to the adjustment between the front brakes. Thus, it should be appreciated that a car can have more than one brake bias adjustment assemblies of present disclosure. It should also be appreciated that the brake bias adjustment assembly of the present disclosure may be employed in other vehicles such as boats, airplanes, off-road vehicles, go-carts, all-terrain vehicles, earthmoving equipment and a wide other range of vehicles. 
     Turning back to the figures, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  of this specific illustrated example of present disclosure generally includes: (a) a knob  2100 ; (b) knob fasteners  2192  and  2194 ; (c) a cover plate or housing  2400 ; (d) a ring gear  2500 ; (e) a compound gear  2550 ; (f) a compound gear mount or axle  2580 ; (g) an idler gear  2600 ; (h) an idler gear mount or axle  2680 ; (i) a base plate  2700 ; (j) a new or existing mounting plate  2800 ; and (h) a plurality of dashboard fasteners (such as but not limited to the illustrated socket head cap bolts  2900  and  2910 , washers  2912  and  2914 , and nuts  2920  and  2930 ). When assembled, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  is configured to be attached to a dashboard  3000  of a vehicle (not shown) such as a race car (not shown) as further described below. 
     More specifically, the knob  2100  is configured to be rotated by the driver of the vehicle to rotate the connection cable  2090  to change the brake bias. This illustrated knob  2100  has a body  2110  having an upper portion  2114  and a lower portion  2112  connected to the upper portion  2114 . The body  2210  has a generally cross shape or X shape which includes a plurality of outwardly extending protrusions or arms  2116   a ,  2116   b ,  2116   c , and  2116   d . These protrusions or arms  2116   a ,  2116   b ,  2116   c , and  2116   d  are configured to enable the driver to grip the knob  2100  and easily make one or more quarter rotations, half rotations, three-quarter rotations, full rotations, or more than full rotations of the knob  2100  (without the need for the driver to look at the knob  2100 ). These protrusions or arms  2116   a ,  2116   b ,  2116   c , and  2116   d  also define a plurality of indentations or pockets between the protrusions or arms  2116   a ,  2116   b ,  2116   c , and  2116   d  which further facilitate gripping of the knob  2100  by the driver. The upper portion  2114  of the body  2110  also include a plurality of lips extending from the side walls of each of the protrusions or arms  2116   a ,  2116   b ,  2116   c , and  2116   d  of the body  2110  to further facilitate gripping of the knob  2100  by the driver. It should be appreciated that the protrusions can be modified (such as by the manufacturer, installer, or driver) to have tactile differences which can be felt by the driver between the various processes of the knobs. For example, additional details on the outer perimeter lip of the knob can include serrations, bumps, and distinguishing scallops so that the driver has a more friendly or unusual or readily identifiable tactile feedback that the knob is in fact the unique knob in this assembly. It should also be appreciated that the illustrated knob is generally symmetrical, and that alternative embodiments can be non-symmetrical. It should also be appreciated that this configuration enables a driver to turn the knob multiple using fingers in a grasping motion to make delicate adjustments such as a one quarter turn. 
     The knob  2100  further includes an actuation gear  2130  extending from the lower portion  2112  of the body  2110  of the knob  2100 . The actuation gear  2130  extends into and is fixed to the body  2110 , and more specifically in this illustrated embodiment is integrally formed (e.g., molded) with the body  2110  (as generally shown in  FIGS. 14B and 14C ). The screws  2192  and  2194  are threaded so that they pass through the metal gear extension of  2134  to provide an ultra secure mounting with the script threads passing through the splined hollow gear number  2130  and into engagement with end of the connection cable (as best shown in  FIG. 14C ). 
     The actuation gear  2130  includes a plurality of outwardly extending teeth  2132  which are configured to engage and cause rotation of the compound gear  2550  which in turn causes rotation of the idler gear  2600  which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear  2500  which causes rotation of the cover plate or housing  2400 . In this illustrated embodiment, the actuation gear  2130  is configured to co-act with the compound gear  2550 , the idler gear  2600 , and the ring gear  2500  such that each quarter revolution of the knob  2100  will cause a 1/64 revolution of the ring gear  2400  and thus a 1/64 revolution of the cover plate  2400  connected to the ring gear  2500 . In this illustrated embodiment, the actuation gear  2130  is configured to co-act with the compound gear  2550 , the idler gear  2600 , and the ring gear  2500  such that each full revolution of the knob  2100  turn will cause a 1/16 revolution of the ring gear  2400  and thus a 1/16 revolution of the cover plate  2400  connected to the ring gear  2500 . Thus, for every full turn of the knob  2100 , the travel of the shaft is one turn, which in turn moves the fulcrum 1/20 of an inch (i.e., 0.050 inches) either toward the left or toward the right. One quarter turn of the knob  2100  will move the center bearing 1/80 of an inch (i.e., 0.0125 inches) either toward the left or toward the right. 
     It should be appreciated that certain race cars (in the United States) have different thread ratios on the threaded rod. Most of them however are ⅜-20 or 7/16-20 U.S. standard threads. These can be an equivalent metric or can be Whitworth threads, but most are approximately 20 turns per inch. The suffix 20 designates 20 turns per total inch of travel of a nut turning on the threaded rod. 
     The knob  2100  has at least one set screw receiving channel, and in this illustrated embodiment, the knob  2100  has two set screw receiving channels (including illustrated channel  2140 ) that enable set screws  2192  and  2194  to be used to securely attach the knob  2100  to the end of the connection cable  2090  and for easy calibration of the knob  2100  relative to the connection cable  2090 . This also enables the driver (or a mechanic) to initially set a neutral position, or a position number that corresponds to either full front brakes or full rear brakes, at a specific number location on the cover plate  2400 . 
     The knob  2100  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the knob can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the knob can be of other suitable configurations and sizes, and that the knob can be coated with a high friction coating such as a silicone or rubber, and/or with a high abrasion coating. The knob  2100  in various embodiments also includes a silicone bead that can be applied to portions of the knob to provide much more high friction or grip (such as like a work glove with rubber grip dots on it). It should also be appreciated that the high friction coating could be similar to the coatings applied to a garage floor or other a slippery area. This enables a coating with high friction particles dispersed on the surface and within the coating to function similar to sandpaper. It should also be appreciated that serrations or bumps can be added to the knob or edge of the knob  2100  for traction wearing gloves. 
     The cylindrical cover plate  2400  is attached to the ring gear  2500  such the rotation of the knob  2100  which causes the rotation of the connection cable and rotation of the ring gear  2500  also causes rotation of the cover plate  2400 . More specifically, in this illustrated embodiment, the cover plate  2400  includes a cylindrical cover plate body  2410  having a downwardly extending cylindrical side wall  2420  and an inwardly extending cylindrical top wall  2430 . The cylindrical side wall  2420  is configured to fit over the ring gear  2500 . In this illustrated embodiment, the side wall  2420  is adhesively fastened or bonded to the ring gear  2500 . It should be appreciated that other suitable attachment mechanisms may be employed in accordance with the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the ring gear  2500  is made from a polymer and the other gears are made from aluminum or stainless steel. This configuration is generally more forgiving and vibration resistant. 
     The front face and outer diameter of the cover plate  2400  each include a set of a plurality of different brake bias indication symbols (such as the different numbers on the illustrated cover plate  2400 ) which indicate the relative front to rear brake bias. In this example embodiment, the brake bias is indicated by the numbers 0 through 15¾. Depending upon the car and the installation, (a) 0 can represent the most front brake bias and 15¾ represents the most rear brake bias; or (b) 0 can represent the most rear brake bias and 15¾ represents the most front brake bias. It should thus be appreciated that if the front and rear master cylinders are mounted in opposite manners, the symbol or number arrangement can vary. It should also be appreciated that the numbering system can be reversed. It should also be appreciated that the brake bias indication symbols can be any suitable symbols. In another embodiment, a fine tuning knob engraving system is incorporated so that the approximately 360 degrees of rotation can be noted in percentages (such as 1% to 100%) or in increments (such as 5% or 10% increments) which provide for finer adjustment so the driver can select and reselect a finer adjustment of the bias and between the digits. As mentioned above, it should also be appreciated that one or more separate indicators (such as one or more labels, stickers, or decals) can be employed on the dashboard to provide one or more indications of the respective symbol as the cover plate  2400  turns. 
     The cover plate  2400  can be made from a suitable molded plastic, or other suitable rigid compound including aluminum or any other metal. The cover plate  2400  can be molded, fabricated, machined, or extruded. It should thus be appreciated that the cover plate can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the cover plate can be of other suitable configurations. It should further be appreciated that the symbols or numbers (on the front face or wall as well as on the outer diameter or wall) can be fluorescent and that the system can include other methods or mechanisms for lighting the entire assembly or least the numbered window for night driving such as night racing. It should also be appreciated that alternative number and color systems may be employed in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, the numbering system could split at the number eight. In this example, 0 to 8 could be a red color and 8 to 15.999 could be a green color. In another example, 0 to 8 could have a white background and black numbers, and 8 to 15.999 could be reversed with white numbers and black background. 
     The cylindrical ring gear  2500  includes a cylindrical ring gear body  2510 . The cylindrical ring gear body  2510  includes a plurality of inwardly extending gear teeth  2540 . These teeth  2540  are configured to mate with the teeth of the idler gear  2600 . In this illustrated embodiment, the ring gear  2500  is configured to rotate 1/16 of a rotation for every full rotation of the knob  2100 . Accordingly, for every full rotation of the knob  2100 , the ring gear  2500  will cause the cover plate  2400  to either increase or decrease by 1 number in this illustrated embodiment. The ring gear  2500  in this embodiment is formed with a cylindrical groove  2520  configured to receive an adhesive to securely attach the ring gear  2500  to the cover plate  2400 . 
     The ring gear  2500  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the ring gear can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the ring gear can be of other suitable configurations and markings and sizes and coated with low friction, anti wear coatings. 
     The cylindrical compound gear  2550  includes cylindrical first gear  2560  and a cylindrical second gear  2570  co-axially aligned and connected to the first gear  2560 . The first gear  2560  and the second gear  2570  define a central hole configured to receive the compound gear mount or axle  2580  (which is a rivet in this example embodiment) which rotatably connects the compound gear  2550  to the base plate  2700 . The first gear  2560  includes a plurality of outwardly extending teeth  2562 . The second gear  2570  includes a plurality of outward extending teeth  2572 . The teeth  2562  are configured to be engaged by and mate with the teeth  2132  of the actuation gear  2130 . The teeth  2572  are configured to engage and mate with the teeth  2602  of the idler gear  2600 . The first gear  2560  has a greater circumference than the second gear  2570 . The second gear  2570  thus provides a greater quantity of rotations to the idler gear  2600  for every rotation of the first gear  2560 . In other words, the compound gear  2550  functions as a reduction gear. 
     The compound gear  2550  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a pair of laser cut gears that are pressed together to create the compound gear. These gears are laser micro welded on the top surface to securely hold the two gears in the assembly. However, it should be appreciated that the compound gear can be made from other suitable materials and in other suitable manners. It should also be appreciated that the compound gear can be of other suitable configurations and sizes and coated with low friction, anti wear coatings. 
     The cylindrical idler gear  2600  has a plurality of outwardly extending teeth  2602 . The idler gear  2600  defines a central opening configured to receive the idler gear mount or axle  2680  which rotatably connects the idler gear  2600  to the base plate  2700 . The teeth  2602  are configured to be engaged by and mate with the teeth  2572  of the second gear  2570  of the compound gear  2550 . The teeth  2602  are configured to engage and mate with the teeth  2540  of the ring gear  2500  to cause rotation of the ring gear  2500 . 
     In this illustrated embodiment, the idler gear  2600  is configured to pivot on a fastener  2680  that has a slightly coined or larger diameter top which corresponds with a chamfer style on the top of idler gear  2600 . The top of the idler gear  2600  is slightly chamfered to correspond to the larger diameter upper edge of pivot  2680 . This configuration prevents vibration from dislodging or enabling the idler gear  2600  to rise or fall on the pivot or fastener  2680  more than a relatively small amount. The idler gear  2600  is thus configured to float slightly vertically. The idler gear pivot or fastener  2680  is pressed into the base plate assembly through the base plate  2700 . In other words, the pivot or fastener  2680  is pressed into the base plate  2700  and then welded on the backside of the base plate. In various embodiments, the pivot and the inside or bore of the  2600  idler gear are coated for long term lubrication and thus long life. It should thus be appreciated that the idler gear  2600  takes most of the torque through the assembly. 
     The idler gear  2600  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a laser cut steel and is subsequently chamfered in a secondary operation at the top of the bore that is laser cut initially. This is followed by a honing operation to provide the precise engineering clearance between the pivot  2680  and the inside of the idler gear  2600 . However, it should be appreciated that the idler gear can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the idler gear can be of other suitable configurations and sizes and coated with low friction, anti wear coatings. 
     From the above, in this illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that rotation of the knob  2100  and thus rotation of the actuation gear  2130  causes rotation of the connection cable and also rotation of the first gear  2560  of the compound gear  2550  which causes rotation of the second gear  2570  of the compound gear  2550  which in turn causes rotation of the idler gear  2600  which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear  2500  and thus rotation of the cover plate  2400  which is secured to the ring gear  2500 . 
     It should further be appreciated that this arrangement or configuration of the gears prevents or inhibits rotation of the connector cable  2090  that causes rotation of the knob  2100 . In other words, this configuration makes driving the gears backward (through the reduction of the gear train) extremely difficult. More specifically, the friction within the gear train acts as a snubbing mechanism or limiter so vibration will not dislodge the mechanism or cause undesired movement of the mechanism. In addition, the slight compressibility of elastomeric gear  2500  helps retain the setting the driver has chosen even with severe vibration affecting the entire vehicle. In certain embodiments, two bearings  2980  and  2982  are appropriately positioned to maintain concentricity of ring gear  2500  even in extreme vibration conditions. For example, in really violent or rough conditions such as off-road racing or rallying, these bearings  2980  and  2982  stabilize the outer ring and/or keep everything concentrically arranged. There is little to no play in the system because of the accuracy of the laser cut gears and also because the plastic/rubber molded gear  2500  which is compressible to a certain extent and thus functions as a resilient cushioning device. 
     The base plate  2700  includes a generally flat cylindrical base plate body  2710  which defines a central opening  2715 , a compound gear mount or axle opening  2725 , an idler gear mount or axle opening  2735 , and fastener openings  2745  and  2755 . The base plate  2700  can include more or less openings to account for the various different ways to mount the base plate  2700  (on a new car or on a existing car) contemplated by the present disclosure. 
     The base plate  2700  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable metal such as mild steel or stainless steel. However, it should be appreciated that the base plate can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the base plate can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. It should be appreciated that the base plate can be coated with a low friction, anti-wear, and corrosion resistant coating. 
     As described above, the fasteners may be welded or otherwise suitably attached to the base plate  2700 . In this illustrated embodiment, two fasteners (including bolts  2900  and  2910 , washers  2912  and  2914 , and nuts  2920  and  2930 ) are employed to attach the base plate  2700  to the mounting plate  2800  and to the dashboard  3000  and thus to attach the entire brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  to the dashboard  3000 . The base plate  2700  is configured to co-act with the mounting plate  2800  for attaching these parts to the dashboard  3000 , or to alternatively work with the mounting plates of existing brake bias adjustment knob assemblies for retrofitting vehicles as further described below. It should be appreciated that the base plate and the attachment fasteners may vary for new and existing cars in accordance with the present disclosure. 
     The illustrated mounting plate  2800  (which may be an existing plate or a new plate) includes a generally square plate body  2810  which defines a central cable hole  2840 , and four dashboard attachment holes. The central cable hole  2840  enables the connection cable  2090  to extend through the mounting plate  2800  to the knob  2100 . It should be appreciated that in various embodiments, the base plate  2700  is mounted to the existing mounting plate  2800 . 
     The mounting plate  2800  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable metal such as mild steel or stainless steel. However, it should be appreciated that the mounting plate can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the mounting plate can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. It should be appreciated that the mounting plate can be coated with a low friction, anti-wear, and corrosion resistant coating. 
     Installation on Completely New Vehicle 
     In one embodiment, to install a brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  of the present disclosure on a completely new vehicle (such as a completely new race car) which does not have any existing brake bias adjustment knob, the installer attaches the mounting plate  2800  to dashboard using fasteners such as two rivets (not shown) extending through two of the dashboard attachment holes in opposing corners in the mounting plate  2800 . The installer then attaches the base plate  2700  (with the assembled cover plate  2400 , ring gear  2500 , compound gear  2550 , compound gear mount or axle  2580 , idler gear  2600 , idler gear mount or axle  2680 ) to the mounting plate  2800  by inserting fasteners such as the two bolts  2900  and  2910  through the other two dashboard attachment holes in opposing corners of the mounting plate  2800  as somewhat illustrated in  FIG. 15 . The installer secures the fasteners such as by attaching the washers  2912  and  2914  and vibration resistant nuts  2920  and  2930  to the bolts  2900  and  2910  to hold or secure the base plate  2700  onto the mounting plate  2800  and the dashboard  3000 . The installer also uses the knob fasteners  2192  and  2194  to secure the knob  2100  to the end of the connection cable  2090  and thus the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  to the connection cable  2090 . It should be appreciated that the mounting plate may be attached to the dashboard in other suitable manners. It should further be appreciated that the base plate may be attached to the mounting plate and the dashboard in other suitable manners. It should further be appreciated that in one embodiment, to calibrate the setting to either a full front brake bias or a full rear brake bias, the installer can install the brake bias adjustment knob assembly so that it is either at 0 or 15¾. 
     Installation on Existing Vehicle 
     In another embodiment, to install a new brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure on an existing vehicle (such as a race car) that already has a commercially available brake bias adjustment knob, the installer turns the existing knob all the way in one direction (i.e., either to full front brake bias or full rear brake bias) and removes the existing knob by taking out the set screw(s) in the existing knob and notes the position of the protruding cable end and particularly the flat portion of the protruding cable end. The installer does not remove the existing mounting plate  2800 . Rather, the installer drills out two of the rivets that hold that existing mounting plate to the dashboard  3000  of the vehicle (not shown). The installer then attaches the base plate  2700  (with the assembled cover plate  2400 , ring gear  2500 , compound gear  2550 , compound gear mount or axle  2580 , idler gear  2600 , idler gear mount or axle  2680 ) to the mounting plate  2800  by inserting fasteners such as the two bolts  2900  and  2910  through the two drilled out dashboard attachment holes in opposing corners of the mounting plate  2800  as somewhat illustrated in  FIG. 15 . The installer secures the fasteners such as by attaching the two washers and vibration resistant nuts  2920  and  2930  to the bolts  2900  and  2910  to hold the base plate  2700  onto the existing mounting plate and the dashboard  3000 . The installer also uses the knob fasteners  2192  and  2194  to secure the knob  2100  to the connection cable  2090  and thus the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  2080  to the connection cable  2090 . It should further be appreciated that the base plate may be attached to the mounting plate and the dashboard in other suitable manners. It should further be appreciated that in one embodiment, to calibrate the setting to either a full front brake bias or a full rear brake bias, the installer can install the brake bias adjustment knob assembly so that it is either at 0 or 15¾. 
     It should be appreciated, as stated above, that suitable labels, decals, or adhesive stickers in the form of a curved arrow can be provided to enable the driver quick reference as to which way to turn the knob to add or subtract relative braking force that the driver desires. These labels, decals, or stickers can indicate either clockwise or counterclockwise rotation for front braking and also for rear braking as shown in  FIGS. 12A and 12B . It should also be appreciated that certain cars have master cylinders mounted front to the right of the brake pedal and some are reversed and that multiple different decals or stickers (such as both directional decals and sticker arrows) can be provided to account for this. 
     It should also be appreciated that this second illustrated embodiment can include one or more components (such as a spring or spring loaded or biased component) that provide(s) the driver a tactile feel and/or at least some audible determinant for motion of the knob  2100  such as for each quarter rotation of the knob  2100 . 
     It should be appreciated from the above that the present disclosure thus provides a vehicle braking system brake bias adjustment knob assembly for a vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster for a pedal assembly of a vehicle braking system of a vehicle, where the vehicle braking system brake bias adjustment knob assembly includes: (1) a knob having an upper portion, a lower portion connected to the upper portion, and an actuation gear extending from the lower portion, the knob configured to be connected to a connection cable of the vehicle braking system brake bias adjuster to enable a driver of the vehicle to set one of a plurality of different amounts of front brake bias, one of a plurality of different amounts of rear brake bias, or neutral which means no amount of front brake bias and no amount of rear brake bias; (2) a compound gear including a first gear and a second gear; (3) an idler gear; (4) a ring gear; and (5) a cover plate having a wall displaying a plurality of different brake bias indication symbols configured to correspond to the plurality of different amounts of front brake bias, the plurality of different amount of rear brake bias, and the no amount of front brake bias and no amount of rear brake bias, and wherein the knob, the actuation gear, the compound gear, the idler gear, the ring gear, and the cover are configured to be assembled such that rotation of the knob causes rotation of the compound gear which in turn causes rotation of the idler gear which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear which causes rotation of the cover. 
     Alternative Brake Bias Adjustment Knob Assembly Configurations 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, 20A, 20B, 20C, 21A, 21B, and 21C , the present disclosure provides multiple different types of brake bias adjustment knob assembly configurations, and specifically different types or configurations of gearing and cover plate numbering systems, to account for the various different types of race cars (including but not limited to stock race cars, formula race cars, rally race cars, circle track race cars, road race cars, ice racing cars, and rally cross racecars), race tracks, changing race tracks, race types, race conditions, and race car driver experience levels. 
     More specifically, stock race cars (such as the stock race cars used in the NASCAR® stock car race league) typically require relatively few brake bias adjustments to be performed during such races because such stock race tracks typically only have two or three corners and typically do not have hills. However, every time the stock race car pits for gasoline, the weight distribution of the race car changes which can require an adjustment to the brake bias to compensate for additional weight on the rear wheels of the race car. Furthermore, such stock race cars may sometimes require more rear bias to the brakes to help the car rotate into and through the first portion of a corner. 
     On the other hand, road racing, rallying racing, and ice racing often have substantially more corners or turns and may have one or more hills which require much more braking and much more varying of brake biasing for optimum performance and lowest lap times. For instance, if a driver brakes a car going down a hill, the rear brakes will lock up unless the driver either brakes very carefully or the driver reduces the rear brake pressure. If the driver brakes going up a hill and adjusts the brake bias more toward the rear of the car, the deceleration rate will be actually faster because the rear wheels are doing more proportionate work. 
     Another reason that stock car races typically require very few brake bias adjustments to be performed during the race is that such races are typically not in the rain. On the other hand, other races (such as Watkins Glen Road type racing) can occur in the rain and the NASCAR sanctioned races require race cars in those races to have mandatory equipment for racing in the rain (such as special tires and windshield wipers). In such races in the rain, if the car has too much front brake bias, the front wheels can easily lock up and the car can slide straight off the racetrack. In the rain, it is generally better to have a bias substantially toward the rear brakes. For instance, a dry weather setting may have a front bias of 65% to the front from the neutral position, and a wet weather setting may have a front brake bias of 55% rear bias of 45% to the rear from the neutral position or 50-50 brake bias setting. 
     The present disclosure takes this into account by providing a brake bias adjustment knob assembly with a relatively fast ratio. In certain embodiments, the relatively fast ratio doesn&#39;t enable the knob and cable to be turned any faster, but rather causes the cover plate and brake bias indication numbers thereon to turn faster (and also provides the driver more resolution so that the driver can make finer adjustments). The spacing between the primary numbers can be wider and enable finer adjustments between the numbers to be more visible by the driver. 
     For example, in the illustrated example embodiment of  FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C , brake bias adjustment knob assembly  3080  includes eight brake bias indication numbers on the side wall and front face of the cover plate or housing  3400  for the 360° of rotation. These symbols or numbers are of a relatively larger size and there are relatively fewer of them. This embodiment will likely be more used or desired by a professional driver such as stock race car driver who will typically only use the short or small adjustment window. For example, six turns of the knob may enough for an entire stock car race (as opposed to 10 or 12 turns which may be required for a road race). Having relatively fewer brake bias indication numbers on the cover plate of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  3080  may provide an advantage for certain drivers to make the desired adjustments 
     More specifically, this example brake bias adjustment knob assembly  3080  includes: (a) a ring gear  3500 ; (b) an actuation gear  3130  extending from the knob  3100 ; (c) a compound gear  3560 ; and (d) an idler gear  3600 . The ring gear  3500  has 80 teeth. The actuation gear  3130  has 24 teeth. The first gear of the compound gear  3560  has 24 teeth and the second gear of the compound gear has 10 teeth. The idler gear  3600  has 10 teeth. In this example embodiment, the 8 to 1 ratio provides a first rotation speed for the cover plate  3400 . The rotation speed of the cover plate is relatively faster so that the cover plate  3400  will spin faster (i.e., twice as fast as the relatively slower 16 to 1 ratio described above and below). Depending upon the car and the installation, (a) brake bias indication number 0 can represent the most front brake bias and brake bias indication number 7⅚ can represent the most rear brake bias; or (b) brake bias indication number 0 can represent the most rear brake bias and brake bias indication number 7⅚ can represent the most front brake bias. As mentioned above, it should also be appreciated that one or more separate indicators (such as one or more labels, stickers, or decals) can be employed on the dashboard to provide one or more indications of the respective symbol as the cover plate  3400  turns. 
     It should be appreciated that this cover plate can alternatively include a greater quantity of indicator symbols (such as 16 numbers) and have a relatively fast ratio based on the driver preference such as for drivers that just want whole numbers because of the speed of the car and the ability to quickly look at the dial (rather than trying to figure out if you&#39;re at 8¼ or 8½ turns). 
     Another example embodiment of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure is illustrated in  FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C , and provides a relatively intermediate or middle ratio which is for more for road racing cars. This ratio is 12 to 1. This embodiment is for the reasonably seasoned or experienced driver. As mentioned above, one of the important considerations for road racing cars throughout the world is that they often race in the rain. To race in the rain, the bias toward the rear brakes needs to be much more powerful than toward the front brakes. The reason for this is that the weight transfer the brake system provides in dry racing conditions (where there is a relatively great amount of adhesion or friction with the dry or slick tires), is nonexistent in the rain. In such situations, it is better to not have the front of the car loaded so heavily. The ratio needs to be biased to more rear braking. This enables the rear brakes to provide more of the deceleration, relative to the dry conditions, and also enables the front wheels to be able to steer and not lose traction in the rain quite as easily. In other words, this enables the race car to stop using more rear brake and the car to turn the car using the front brakes. 
     More specifically, in this illustrated example, brake bias adjustment knob assembly  4080  includes twelve brake bias indication numbers on the side wall and front face of the cover plate or housing  4400  for the 360° of rotation as generally illustrated in  FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C . This example brake bias adjustment knob assembly  4080  includes: (a) a ring gear  4500 ; (b) an actuation gear  4130  extending from the knob  4100 ; (c) a compound gear  4560 ; and (d) an idler gear  4600 . The ring gear  4500  has 70 teeth. The actuation gear  4130  has 14 teeth. The first gear of the compound gear  4560  has 24 teeth and the second gear of the compound gear has 10 teeth. The idler gear  4600  has 10 teeth. In this example embodiment, the 12 to 1 ratio provides a second different rotation speed the cover plate  4400  which is slower than the rotation speed of the cover plate of the embodiment of  FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C , and which is still faster than the rotation speed of the even slower 16 to 1 ratio cover plate described above and below. Depending upon the car and the installation, (a) brake bias indication number 0 can represent the most front brake bias and brake bias indication number 11⅚ can represent the most rear brake bias; or (b) brake bias indication number 0 can represent the most rear brake bias and brake bias indication number 11⅚ can represent the most front brake bias. As mentioned above, it should also be appreciated that one or more separate indicators (such as one or more labels, stickers, or decals) can be employed on the dashboard to provide one or more indications of the respective symbol as the cover plate  4400  turns. 
     Another example embodiment of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure which is used above as a primary example is the ratio of 16 to 1 as generally illustrated in  FIGS. 21A, 21B, and 21C . This embodiment with sixteen brake bias indication numbers on the side wall and front face of the cover plate or housing  5400  eliminates the need for the driver to try to figure out the exact setting. In many situations, this configuration can be used in the cars driven by beginner road racing drivers. Often the cars driven by these drivers are not very skilled or simply are new to driving a race car and the drivers do not have extensive experience with which way to adjust the brake bias. In various situations, this configuration may be more for a hobby class of driver, where having a slower outer ratio will be probably more in keeping with the nonprofessional race car driver. 
     More specifically, in this illustrated example, brake bias adjustment knob assembly  5080  includes sixteen brake bias indication numbers on the side wall and front face of the cover plate or housing  5400  for 360° of rotation as generally illustrated in  FIGS. 21A, 21B, and 21C . This example brake bias adjustment knob assembly  5080  includes: (a) a ring gear  5500 ; (b) an actuation gear  5130  extending from the knob  5100 ; (c) a compound gear  5560 ; and (d) an idler gear  5600 . The ring gear  5500  has 80 teeth. The actuation gear  5130  has 14 teeth. The first gear of the compound gear  5560  has 28 teeth and the second gear of the compound gear has 10 teeth. The idler gear  4600  has 14 teeth. In this example embodiment, the 16 to 1 ratio provides a third different slower rotation speed for the cover plate  5400  such that its spins slower than the embodiments of  FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C , and  FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C . Depending upon the car and the installation, (a) brake bias indication number 0 can represent the most front brake bias and brake bias indication number 15¾ can represent the most rear brake bias; or (b) brake bias indication number 0 can represent the most rear brake bias and brake bias indication number 15¾ can represent the most front brake bias. As mentioned above, it should also be appreciated that one or more separate indicators (such as one or more labels, stickers, or decals) can be employed on the dashboard to provide one or more indications of the respective symbol as the cover plate  5400  turns. 
     It should also be appreciated that certain forms of race cars race on dirt or clay tracks. These tracks, as opposed to asphalt tracks, actually change consistency and friction from the practice laps early in an evening to the final race which can be held many hours later. As the sun no longer heats these racetracks, the friction characteristics change, sometimes dramatically. The ability of a driver to note where the brake bias of these race car was set early in an evening during time trials versus the last race can assist the driver with the finite knowledge of exactly where the bias was set front to rear on the brakes. 
     It should also be appreciated that certain forms of race cars bias the brakes from left to right for the front wheels. Anyone of the three ratios noted above can be used based on the preference of a driver, which further enables the driver to keep notes and have a reference point for adjustments to start with and adjustments made during a competition or practice. 
     It should further be appreciated that certain forms of race cars compete in what is called “drifting” competitions. These types of race cars need to have a brake bias which will shift the brake pressure at the rear wheels suddenly in order to create the car rotation and slide the rear end of the race car in the desired direction. This brake bias adjuster device of the present disclosure with any of the three described ratios can be optimized for drifting competition with clear readout to the driver. This enables a driver to keep notes of the best optimum performance. It also enables the driver to change the brake bias setting to optimize the requirements of the performance and provide knowledge as to where to reset the brakes to for the next phase of competition. 
     It should be appreciated that the above example numbering and gearing configurations as well as other suitable numbering and gearing configurations can be employed or selected based on the race car, the race track, the type of racing, the race conditions, and the race car driver experience level. 
     It should be appreciated that the numbering and gearing configuration of brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure corresponds on a predefined basis to the threaded shaft of the brake biasing mechanism as explained above. For example, many known brake bias brake pedal assemblies have threaded shafts with have sixteen turns per inch. The brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure can be configured to be coordinated with the number of turns on the shaft. 
     It should also be appreciated that the smaller numbering systems (with less numbers) can also facilitate even smaller knobs. Such smaller versions may also be useful in certain new installations such as for formula race cars (such as an Indy formula race car) which has a much smaller dashboard than a stock race car. 
     It should further be appreciated that the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure can be configured to have a fast spin knob that enables the driver to spin the knob relatively quickly. This can be used for dirt race cars (and others) to actually enable a very fast change the brake bias (such as multiple changes several times a lap). 
     More specifically, turning now to  FIGS. 22 and 23 , one example embodiment of a rapid or fast spin knob  6100  of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, the knob  6100  has a knob body  6110  having an exterior structure which includes an upper portion  6114  and a base or lower portion  6112  connected to the upper portion  6114 . The upper portion  6114  has a plurality of protrusions  6116  and defines a plurality of indentations  6118  which facilitate gripping of the knob  6110  by the driver. The knob  6100  includes a gear (not shown extending from the lower portions (identical or similar to the gear show in  FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C or 19C, 20C, and 20B ). This illustrated knob  6100  has two set screw receiving channels (such as channel  6140 ) that respectively enable set screws (not shown) to be used to attach the knob  6100  to the end (not shown) of the connection cable (not shown) and for easy calibration of the knob  6100  relative to the connection cable. This also enables the driver (or a mechanic) to initially set the neutral position, or a position number that corresponds to either full front brakes or full rear brakes. The knob body of the knob  6100  also includes an interior structure (not shown) which defines a central cylindrical hole (not shown) configured to receive the end (not shown) of the connection cable (not shown). 
     The knob  6100  includes a generally L-shaped handle  6170  which includes a mounting arm  6172  and an actuation arm  6174 . The mounting arm  6172  is configured to be received by an arm receiving channel  6150  extending transversely through the knob body  6110  and held in place by at least one and preferably by a plurality of fasteners such as locking pins  6184 ,  6186 , and  6188 . The locking pins  6184 ,  6186 , and  6188  respectively extend through apertures  6154 ,  6156 , and  6158  in the top of the knob body  6100  and through apertures  6174 ,  6176 , and  6178  in the mounting arm  6172  to secure mounting arm  6162  of the L-shaped handle  6170  in and to the knob body  6110 . The knob  6100  further includes a cylindrical sleeve  6190  rotatably secured to the actuation arm  6174  of the handle  6170  by a suitable fastener such as locking ring  6192 . 
     The knob body  6100  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the knob body can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the knob body can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. 
     The handle  6170  is this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable metal. However, it should be appreciated that the handle can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the handle can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. 
     The sleeve  6190  in this illustrated embodiment is made from a suitable molded plastic. However, it should be appreciated that the sleeve can be made from other suitable materials and in any suitable manner. It should also be appreciated that the sleeve can be of other suitable configurations and sizes. 
     The configuration of this embodiment enables a driver to grip the sleeve  6190  and thus the handle  6170  and quickly spin the knob body  6110  and thus the knob  6100 . This configuration functions to a certain degree like a crank. This configuration is configured for relatively fast ratio requirements such as dirt racing. This accounts for many possible varying race track and race conditions. For example, dirt tracks may change substantially from the beginning of a race to the end of that race (as opposed to pavement or asphalt tracks which typically do not experience such changes unless it rains). 
     The present disclosure further contemplates a knob assembly with a gear ratio that&#39;s faster so the cable or shaft turns at a different speed than the knob (such as twice as fast as the rotation of the knob). This is needed in situations where the driver needs to be able to substantially change the brake ratio quickly. This can be used, for example, in dirt type racing on oval tracks, in rally racing, in drifting competitions, on certain hilly race tracks, or in race circuits where braking forces to the rear wheels need to be reduced if braking down hills. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 24 , in one example embodiment, the present disclosure contemplates an alternative knob assembly with a gear ratio in which one full rotation of the knob causes two full rotations of the cable or shaft. In this illustrated example, the brake bias adjustment knob assembly  6080  includes: (a) a ring gear  6500 ; (b) an actuation gear  6130  extending from the knob (not shown in  FIG. 24 ); (c) a compound gear  6560 ; (d) an idler gear  6600 ; and (e) a shaft rotation gear  6700 . In this alternative embodiment, the actuation gear  6130  is not directly connected to the cable or shaft, but the shaft rotation gear  6700  is suitably connected to the cable or shaft (not shown in  FIG. 24 ). In this alternative embodiment, the actuation gear  6130  causes the shaft rotation gear  6700  to rotate. Since the shaft rotation gear  6700  is connected to the cable or shaft (not shown), this causes the cable or shaft to rotate. In this example embodiment, the actuation gear  6130  is twice as large as the shaft rotation gear  6700 , and thus one full rotation of the knob (which is connected to the actuation gear  6130 ) causes two full rotations of the shaft rotation gear  6700  (which is connected to the cable or shaft) and thus two full rotations of the cable or shaft. It should be appreciated that various alternative ways of causing the cable or shaft to rotate at a different speed than the knob can be employed in accordance with the present disclosure 
     The present disclosure further contemplates that the cover plate or faceplate may include cut-outs of one or more of the symbols such as the numbers. In certain such embodiments, one or more lights such as LED lights can be positioned inside the cover plate to display the symbols or numbers. This can be in addition to or instead of the labels or decals as described above. Additionally, the label can be attached to the cover plate before the cut-outs are made such that the cutouts are also formed in the label. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , in one example embodiment, the present disclosure contemplates an alternative knob assembly  7080  including a light source such as LED  7090  and a cover plate  7400  having a cylindrical cover plate body having a downwardly extending cylindrical side wall  7520  and an inwardly extending cylindrical front or top wall  7530 . The front or top wall  7530  of the cover plate  7400  includes a plurality of the brake bias indication symbols in the form of laser cut-outs which enable light from the light source  7090  to pass through the cover plate to indicate the amount, if any, of front or rear brake bias to the driver. The side wall  7520  of the cover plate  7400  can also or alternatively be marked with indications symbols that are in the form of laser cut-outs which enable light from the light source  7090  to pass through the cover plate to indicate the amount of brake bias to the driver. It should be appreciated that the light source can be attached to the dashboard of the race car adjacent to the end of the cable or shaft or be otherwise suitably positioned and powered. 
     The present disclosure further contemplates that the knob may be alternatively configured to provide for different gripping functions for different forms of racing.  FIGS. 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, and 32  illustrate one alternative knob  8100 .  FIGS. 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39  illustrate another alternative knob  9100 . 
     It should further be appreciated that the present disclosure contemplates that one or more suitable bearings such as suitable plastic bearing may be employed in any of the embodiments of the brake bias adjustment knob assembly. 
     It should be understood that modifications and variations may be effected without departing from the scope of the novel concepts of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that this application is to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.