Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970 (39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

AN ELECTRONIC ACCELERATOR POSITION DETECTION DEVICE

Napino Auto & Electronics Ltd., an Indian Company of Sec-3 Plot No. 7, Sector 3, IMT Manesar, Distt-Gurgaon – 122050, Haryana

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

Field of the Invention:

The present invention relates to an electronic accelerator position detection device generating throttle position indicating signal and at least one mode signal when rotated in a normal rotation direction (a1). In addition to the above, the electronic accelerator position detection device generates additional throttle position indicating signal when rotated in a reverse rotation direction (a2) from a neutral position (?0).

Background of the Invention:

In general, two-wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters and scooties or three wheeled vehicles such as auto-rickshaw or all-terrain vehicles have handlebars and are equipped with a throttle grip at the tip of the handlebar and is also equipped with a throttle position detecting apparatus for allowing the vehicle to run at an arbitrary speed by detecting a throttle position on the basis of an angle of rotation, effected by the driver, of the throttle grip. Throttle position detecting apparatus having mechanical configurations and electronic configurations have been proposed conventionally.

Applicant’s earlier patent application numbered 201811004727, contents of which are incorporated in totality, discloses an electronic accelerator position detection device which operates on the basis of non-contact based mechanism. The electronic accelerator position detection device as per the aforesaid application comprises a handle grip supporting element; a magnet holder being adapted to be coupled with the handle grip supporting element; a magnet being held within the magnet holder; a sensor holder being adapted to be coupled with the magnet holder, such that a combination of the handle grip supporting element and the magnet holder is adapted to exhibit a rotational motion with respect to the sensor holder upon use actuation; and a hall effect sensor being held within the sensor holder. In the aforesaid construction, the entire output produced by the hall effect sensor can be interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal” or a first part of the output produced by the hall effect sensor can be interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal” and a remaining part of the output produced by the hall effect sensor can be interpreted as corresponding to “at least one mode signal”. In other words, if the handle grip supporting element is rotatable from a neutral position (?0) to a maximum angular position (?M); output produced by the hall effect sensor when the handle grip supporting element is between ?0 and ?1 can be interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal” and the output produced by the hall effect sensor when the handle grip supporting element is between ?1 and ?M can be interpreted as “at least one mode signal”.

When the entire output produced by the Hall Effect sensor is being interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal”, there does not exist any problem. However, when a first part of the output produced by the hall effect sensor is being interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal” and a remaining part of the output produced by the hall effect sensor is being interpreted as corresponding to “at least one mode signal”, the user is not provided any active feedback. Thus, there exists a need to overcome the aforesaid disadvantage.

In addition to the above, the electronic accelerator position detection device as described does not generate additional throttle position indicating signal when the handlebar grip is rotated in a reverse rotation direction (a2) from a neutral position (?0). Thus, there exists a need to overcome the aforesaid disadvantage. It is also desirable to provide different feedbacks the user while the handlebar grip is being rotated in the reverse rotation direction (a2) from a neutral position (?0) compared to rotation of the handlebar grip between ?0 and ?1.

It is desirable to overcome the aforesaid disadvantages in the most economical manner and especially without requiring incorporation of additional magnets or additional Hall Effect sensors. Also, is desirable to overcome the aforesaid disadvantages without substantially increasing the overall packing size of the electronic accelerator position detection device.

Summary of the Invention:

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified format that are further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention, and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

Accordingly, the present invention provides an electronic accelerator position detection device (100) generating throttle position indicating signal and at least one mode signal when rotated in a normal rotation direction (a1). The device comprises a handlebar grip (102) rotatable from a neutral position (?0) to a maximum angular position (?M) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104); a magnet holder element (106) coupled to the handlebar grip (102) so as to rotate along with the handlebar grip (102), the magnet holder element (106) accommodating a magnet (108); a magnet sensor (110) sensing location of the magnet (108) and generating output signal, the output signal being interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the neutral position (?0) and a first predetermined angle (?1) and the output signal being interpreted as “at least one mode signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M); and a first resilient member (112) that energizes the handlebar grip (102) to the neutral position (?0) when no force is applied. The electronic accelerator position detection device (100) further comprises a first level active feedback generating mechanism (114) generating a first level active feedback. In an embodiment of the invention the first level active feedback generating mechanism comprising a second resilient member (116) defining a first end (118) that selectively comes in contact with a first portion (120) of the magnet holder element (106) at the first predetermined angle (?1) thereby increasing the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M) as compared to the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1). Since, the force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M) is greater than the force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (1) from the neutral position (?0) to the first predetermined angle (?1), the user is provided a first level active feedback.

To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of Figures:

In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of an electronic accelerator position detection device constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2(a) and 2(b) show sectional views of the compartment specifically showing the detent profile in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 shows sectional view of electronic accelerator position detection device when the handlebar grip is in the neutral position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 shows sectional view of electronic accelerator position detection device when the handlebar grip has been rotated by the first predetermined angle (?1) in normal rotation direction (a1) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 shows sectional view of electronic accelerator position detection device when the handlebar grip has been rotated by a second predetermined angle (?2) in normal rotation direction (a1) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 6 shows sectional view of electronic accelerator position detection device when the handlebar grip has been rotated to the maximum angular position (?M) in normal rotation direction (a1) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7 shows sectional view of electronic accelerator position detection device when the handlebar grip has been rotated in the reverse rotation direction (a2) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of an electronic accelerator position detection device constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 illustrates an exploded view of an electronic accelerator position detection device constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10 illustrates an exploded view of an electronic accelerator position detection device constructed in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 11 illustrates an exploded view of an electronic accelerator position detection device constructed in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention.

It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, the one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a device that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated an electronic accelerator position detection device (100) constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention for generating throttle position indicating signal and at least one mode signal when rotated in a normal rotation direction (a1). The device comprises a handlebar grip (102). The handlebar grip (102) is adapted to be rotated by a user from a neutral position (?0) to a maximum angular position (?M) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104). The device further comprises a magnet holder element (106) coupled to the handlebar grip (102) so as to rotate along with the handlebar grip (102). In an embodiment of the invention, the magnet holder element (106) accommodates a magnet (108). The device further comprises a magnet sensor (110) for sensing a location of the magnet (108). The magnet sensor (110) generates output signal whose magnitude varies according to the location of the magnet. The output signal whose magnitude varies according to the location of the magnet is provided to an electronic control unit (not shown). The output signal is interpreted by the ECU as “throttle position indicating signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the neutral position (?0) and a first predetermined angle (?1). On the other hand, the output signal being interpreted as “at least one mode signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M). The device further comprises a first resilient member (112) that energizes the handlebar grip (102) to the neutral position (?0) when no force is applied.

The device as described above is further provided a first level active feedback generating mechanism generating a first level active feedback. The first level active feedback is generated when the handlebar grip (102) is between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M). Thus, when the output signal is being interpreted as “at least one mode signal” (i.e. when the handlebar grip (102) is between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M)), the user is provided a first level active feedback.

In particular, the first level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a second resilient member (114) defining a first end (116) that selectively comes in contact with a first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106) at the first predetermined angle (?1). Thus, the amount of force required for rotating the handlebar grip (102) between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M) is higher as compared to the amount of force required for rotating the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1). This difference in the amount of force required to be applied can be sensed by the user and therefore acts as the first level active feedback.

In an additional aspect of the invention, the accelerator position detection device further comprises a first plunger (120) located between the first end (116) of the second resilient member (114) and the first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106). The first plunger (120) acts to transfer force exerted by the magnet holder element (106) to the second resilient member (114). In particular, the first plunger (120) uniformly transfers force between the first end (116) of the second resilient member (114) and the first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106).

In an optional embodiment of the invention which is beneficial from manufacturing purposes, the second resilient member (114) is accommodated in a compartment (122). The compartment may also accommodate the first plunger (120).

The device as described above in addition to providing is first level active feedback, may also provide at least one second level active feedback. The second level active feedbacks may be generated either when the handlebar grip (102) reaches the first predetermined angle (?1) or when the handlebar grip (102) is rotated between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M). To enable generation of the at least one second level active feedback, the device (100) further comprises a second level active feedback generating mechanism. It may be noted that providing the at least one second level active feedback is not an essential aspect of the invention, but is an advantageous option.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a ball-spring mechanism (124) accommodated by the first plunger (120). The ball-spring mechanism (124) interacts with a detent profile (126), as shown in Figure 2(a) and Figure 2(b). The detent profile (126) may be provided within the compartment (122).

In particular, the detent profile (126) defines at least one parking portion (1281, 1282, 1283). The ball-spring mechanism (124) comes to rest temporarily in the least one parking portion (1281, 1282, 1283) thereby generating the least one second level active feedback. It may be noted that the number of second level active feedback generated corresponds to the number of parking portions (1281, 1282, 1283) defined in the detent profile (126). For instance, if the detent profile (126) defines three parking portions (1281, 1282, 1283) as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), the device generates three active feedbacks of the second level.

As best seen from Figure 3, when force is not applied on the handlebar grip (102), the first resilient member (112) energizes the handlebar grip (102) to the neutral position (?0). On the other hand, as best seen from Figure 4, the handlebar grip (102) can be rotated against the force exerted by the first resilient member (112) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104). In particular, the handlebar grip (102) can be rotated in the normal rotation direction (a1) to reach the first predetermined angle (?1).

Also, as best seen from Figure 5, the handlebar grip (102) can be rotated against the force exerted by the first resilient member (112) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104) to reach a second predetermined angle (?2).

Finally, as best seen from Figure 6, the handlebar grip (102) can be rotated against the force exerted by the first resilient member (112) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104) to reach the maximum angular position (?M).

Additionally, as best seen from Figure 7, the handlebar grip (102) can be rotated against the force exerted by the first resilient member (112) in a reverse rotation direction (a2) with respect to a case (104) to reach a second predetermined angle (?2).

It may be noted that in Figure 1, the magnet sensor (110) is accommodated in the case (104). However, in an alternative embodiment which is shown in Figure 9, the magnet sensor (110) may be accommodated in a sensor holder (130).

In an embodiment of the invention, the accelerator position detection device further comprises a third level active feedback generating mechanism for generating a third level active feedback during rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2).

In an embodiment of the invention, the third level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a second end (132) of the second resilient member (114) that selectively comes in contact with a second portion (134) of the magnet holder element (106) at the neutral position (?0) thereby increasing the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2) as compared to the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1).

It may be noted that in Figure 1, the compartment (122) is formed in the case (104). However, in an alternative embodiment which is shown in Figure 9, the compartment (122) is formed in the sensor holder (130).

The first resilient member (112) is disposed in multiple forms. For instance, as shown in Figure 1, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between the case (104) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the case (104) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106).

Although not shown, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between the case (104) and the handlebar grip (102) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the case (104) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the handlebar grip (102).

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figure 9, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between the sensor holder (130) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the sensor holder (130) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106).

Although not shown, in another alternative embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between the sensor holder (130) and the handlebar grip (102) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the sensor holder (130) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the handlebar grip (102).

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figure 8, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between a retainer plate (142) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the retainer plate (142) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106).

Although not shown, in another alternative embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between the retainer plate (142) and the handlebar grip (102) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the retainer plate (142) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the handlebar grip (102).

In one further embodiment of the invention, an internal portion of the case (102) is provided with a magnetic field directing element (136) directing the magnetic field produced by the magnet (108) towards the magnet sensor (110). For instance, the magnetic field directing element (136) is located in the magnet holder element (106) such that the magnet (108) is sandwiched between the magnetic field directing element (136) and the magnet sensor (110).

In an embodiment of the invention, the magnet (108) is in the form of an arc and the magnet (108) faces the magnet sensor (110) along an axial direction of the handlebar grip (102).

In an embodiment as shown in Figure 10, the accelerator position detection device further comprises a micro switch (138) actuatable by the magnet holder element (106) at the neutral position (?0) and during rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2). The actuation of the micro switch (138) at the neutral position (?0) can be taken as an indication that the handlebar grip (102) is at the neutral position (?0). Thus, if magnet sensor (110) generates an output and the micro switch (138) also generates an output, an error can be inferred.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 11, the accelerator position detection device (100) generates throttle position indicating signal when the handlebar grip (102) is rotated in the normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104). The accelerator position detection device (100) further generates at least one mode signal when rotated in a normal rotation direction (a1) and generates additional throttle position indicating signal when the handlebar grip (102) is rotated in the normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104). The accelerator position detection device (100) further generates throttle position indicating signal when the handlebar grip (102) is rotated in the reverse rotation direction (a2). The accelerator position detection device (100) further generates an additional signal when the handlebar grip (102) is at the neutral position (?0).

The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a handlebar grip (102) rotatable from a neutral position (?0) to a maximum angular position (?M) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104) and in reverse rotation direction (a2).

The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a magnet holder element (106) coupled to the handlebar grip (102) so as to rotate along with the handlebar grip (102). The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a magnet sensor (110) for sensing location of the magnet (108) and generating output signal. The output signal as generated by the magnet sensor (110) is interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal”, when the handlebar grip (102) is between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1). The output signal as generated by the magnet sensor (110) is interpreted as “at least one mode signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M). The output signal as generated by the magnet sensor (110) is interpreted as “regenerative type throttle position indicating signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is rotated in the reverse rotation direction (a2) from the neutral position (?0).

The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a first resilient member (112) that energizes the handlebar grip (102) to the neutral position (?0) when no force is applied.

The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a first level active feedback generating mechanism generating a first level active feedback. The first level active feedback generating mechanism comprising a second resilient member (114) defining a first end (116) that selectively comes in contact with a first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106) at the first predetermined angle (?1) thereby increasing the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M) as compared to the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1).

The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a first plunger (120) located between the first end (116) of the second resilient member (114) and the first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106), the first plunger (120) acting to transfer force exerted by the magnet holder element (106) to the second resilient member (114). In an embodiment of the invention, the second resilient member (114) and the first plunger (120) are accommodated in a compartment (122).

The accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a second level active feedback generating mechanism generating at least one second level active feedback during movement of the first plunger (120) within the compartment (122). In an embodiment of the invention, the second level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a ball-spring mechanism (124) accommodated by the first plunger (120), the ball-spring mechanism (124) interacting with a detent profile (126) provided within the compartment (122) during movement of the first plunger (120) within the compartment (122). In an embodiment of the invention, the detent profile (126) defines at least one parking portion (128), the ball-spring mechanism (124) coming to rest temporarily in the least one parking portion (1281, 1282, 1283) thereby generating the least one second level active feedback. In an embodiment of the invention, the magnet sensor (110) is accommodated in the sensor holder (130).

In an embodiment of the invention, the accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a third level active feedback generating mechanism for generating a third level active feedback during rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2). In a preferred aspect of the invention, the third level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a second end (132) of the second resilient member (114) that selectively comes in contact with a second portion (134) of the magnet holder element (106) at the neutral position (?0) thereby increasing the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2) as compared to the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1). Also in an embodiment of the invention, the compartment (122) is formed in the sensor holder (130).

In this embodiment of the invention, the internal portion of the case (102) is provided with a magnetic field directing element (136) directing the magnetic field produced by the magnet (108) towards the magnet sensor (110). In particular, the magnetic field directing element (136) is located in the magnet holder element (106) such that the magnet (108) is sandwiched between the magnetic field directing element (136) and the magnet sensor (110).

In an embodiment of the invention the accelerator position detection device (100) comprises a micro switch (138) actuatable by the magnet holder element (106) at the neutral position (?0) and during rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member (112) is disposed between the sensor holder (130) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the sensor holder (130) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106).

The accelerator position detection device (100) constructed in accordance with the aforesaid embodiment has several advantages. For example, the accelerator position detection device (100) needs lesser number of components needed for generating “throttle position indicating signal”, “regenerative type throttle position indicating signal”, “one or more mode signals” and “neutral position indicating signal”. More particularly, the accelerator position detection device (100) generates “throttle position indicating signal”, “regenerative type throttle position indicating signal”, and the “one or more mode signals” using a single magnet sensor (110), which may be a dual Hall Effect sensor incorporated on a printed circuit board.

The “neutral position indicating signal” which is generated by the micro switch (138) may be used for detecting error in the output generated by the dual Hall Effect sensor and for off-setting such error (in case the arises).

The accelerator position detection device (100) constructed in accordance with the aforesaid embodiment has a small overall packing size. The packing size is reduced by locating the magnet (108) in the magnet holder element (106) which is coupled to the handlebar grip (102). The packing size is reduced by locating the magnet sensor (110) in the sensor holder (130). The packing size is reduced by forming the compartment (122) as part of the sensor holder (130). The packing size is reduced by locating the second resilient member (114), the second plunger (140), and the ball spring mechanism (124) within the compartment (124). The packing size is reduced by forming the detent profile (126) as part of the compartment (124). The packing size is reduced by locating the magnetic field directing element (136) in the magnet holder element (106). All of these aspects both individually as a well as in combination contribute to reducing the overall packing size.

The time period for assembling the accelerator position detection device (100) constructed in accordance with the aforesaid embodiment is also substantially low. The aspect of forming the compartment (122) as part of the sensor holder (130) and forming the detent profile (126) as part of the compartment (124) contribute to reducing the time period for assembling the accelerator position detection device (100). The time period for assembling the accelerator position detection device (100) can be further reduced by forming the magnetic field directing element (136) within the magnet holder element (106).

While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.

Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.

Brief Description of the reference numeral used in the figures:
100 - Electronic accelerator position detection device
102 - Handlebar grip
104 - Case
106 – Magnet holder element
108 - Magnet
110 - Magnet sensor
112 - First resilient member
114 - Second resilient member
116 - First end of the second resilient member
118 – First portion of the magnet holder element
120 - First plunger
122 - Compartment
124 – Ball-spring mechanism
126 - Detent profile
1281, 1282, 1283 - At least one parking portion
130 - Sensor holder
132 - Second end of the second resilient member
134 - Second portion of the magnet holder element
136 - Magnetic field directing element
138 - Micro switch
140 – Second Plunger
142 – Retainer plate
, Claims:We Claim:

1. An electronic accelerator position detection device (100) generating throttle position indicating signal and at least one mode signal when rotated in a normal rotation direction (a1), said device comprising:
a handlebar grip (102) rotatable from a neutral position (?0) to a maximum angular position (?M) in a normal rotation direction (a1) with respect to a case (104);
a magnet holder element (106) coupled to the handlebar grip (102) so as to rotate along with the handlebar grip (102), the magnet holder element (106) accommodating a magnet (108);
a magnet sensor (110) sensing location of the magnet (108) and generating output signal, the output signal being interpreted as “throttle position indicating signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the neutral position (?0) and a first predetermined angle (?1) and the output signal being interpreted as “at least one mode signal” when the handlebar grip (102) is between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M);
a first resilient member (112) that energizes the handlebar grip (102) to the neutral position (?0) when no force is applied;
characterized in that:
a first level active feedback generating mechanism generating a first level active feedback, the first level active feedback generating mechanism comprising a second resilient member (114) defining a first end (116) that selectively comes in contact with a first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106) at the first predetermined angle (?1) thereby increasing the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the first predetermined angle (?1) and the maximum angular position (?M) as compared to the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1).

2. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a first plunger (120) located between the first end (116) of the second resilient member (114) and the first portion (118) of the magnet holder element (106), the first plunger (120) acting to transfer force exerted by the magnet holder element (106) to the second resilient member (114).

3. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second resilient member (114) and the first plunger (120) are accommodated in a compartment (122).

4. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a second level active feedback generating mechanism generating at least one second level active feedback during movement of the first plunger (120) within the compartment (122).

5. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the second level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a ball-spring mechanism (124) accommodated by the first plunger (120), the ball-spring mechanism (124) interacting with a detent profile (126) provided within the compartment (122) during movement of the first plunger (120) within the compartment (122).

6. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the detent profile (126) defines at least one parking portion (128), the ball-spring mechanism (124) coming to rest temporarily in the least one parking portion (1281, 1282, 1283) thereby generating the least one second level active feedback.

7. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnet sensor (110) is accommodated in the case (104) or in a sensor holder (130).

8. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the handlebar grip (102) is rotatable from the neutral position (?0) in a reverse rotation direction (a2) with respect to a case (104).

9. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 8, comprising a third level active feedback generating mechanism for generating a third level active feedback during rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2).

10. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the third level active feedback generating mechanism comprises a second end (132) of the second resilient member (114) that selectively comes in contact with a second portion (134) of the magnet holder element (106) at the neutral position (?0) thereby increasing the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2) as compared to the amount of force required for rotation of the handlebar grip (102) between the neutral position (?0) and the first predetermined angle (?1).

11. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the compartment (122) is formed in the case (104) or in the sensor holder (130).

12. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first resilient member (112) is disposed in any of the following manners:

a. between the case (104) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the case (104) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106); or

b. between the case (104) and the handlebar grip (102) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the case (104) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the handlebar grip (102); or

c. between the sensor holder (130) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the sensor holder (130) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106); or

d. between the sensor holder (130) and the handlebar grip (102) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the sensor holder (130) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the handlebar grip (102); or

e. between a retainer plate (142) and the magnet holder element (106) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the retainer plate (142) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the magnet holder element (106); or

f. between the retainer plate (142) and the handlebar grip (102) such that a first end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the retainer plate (142) and a second end of the first resilient member (112) is held rigidly by the handlebar grip (102).

13. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an internal portion of the case (102) is provided with a magnetic field directing element (136) directing the magnetic field produced by the magnet (108) towards the magnet sensor (110).

14. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 13, wherein the magnetic field directing element (136) is located in the magnet holder element (106) such that the magnet (108) is sandwiched between the magnetic field directing element (136) and the magnet sensor (110).

15. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnet (108) is in the form of an arc and the magnet (108) faces the magnet sensor (110) along an axial direction of the handlebar grip (102).

16. The accelerator position detection device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a micro switch (138) actuatable by the magnet holder element (106) at the neutral position (?0) and during rotation of the handlebar grip (102) in the reverse rotation direction (a2).