BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The subject invention relates to an adjustable control apparatus for use with a vehicle.

2. Description of Related Art

[0002] Automobiles, motorcycles, boats and other types of vehicles typically include one or more control apparatus that controls the speed at which the vehicle travels. For example, in some vehicles the control apparatus may be a pedal, which can be further defined as an accelerator pedal that controls an engine, a brake pedal that controls brakes, or a clutch pedal that controls a clutch. There is a desire within the industries utilizing control apparatus to provide for adjustments to the control apparatus to configure the control apparatus to best suit a user of the control apparatus. Many techniques have been used to adjust the control apparatus for a particular user. One solution in the industry involves a pedal assembly including a plate pivotally coupled to the vehicle and attached to the device that the user wishes to control. The pedal assembly further includes a pedal arm pivotally coupled to the plate. The pedal arm has a ring gear. The pedal assembly includes an electric motor which drives a spur gear meshed with the ring gear. The electric motor drives the spur gear that rotates the ring gear. The rotation of the ring gear causes the pedal arm to pivot relative to the plate for adjusting the pedal assembly

[0003] Although effective, the use of the electric motor to adjust the pedal assembly increases the cost to manufacture the pedal assembly. Furthermore, when the pedal arm is in a desired position relative to the plate, the pedal arm is held in place relative to the plate by the electric motor. Any force exerted on the pedal arm is transferred to the electric motor which can result in unwanted wear-and-tear on the electric motor. As such, there remains a need to provide an improved adjustable control apparatus for use with a vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES

[0004] The subj ect invention provides for an adjustable control apparatus for use with a vehicle. The adjustable control apparatus includes a mounting bracket adapted to be mounted to the vehicle. The adjustable control apparatus further includes a movable component coupled to the mounting bracket and movable relative to the mounting bracket between a rest position and an operational position. The movable component has an engagement surface defining a first configuration.

[0005] The adjustable control apparatus further includes an adjustment arm coupled to the movable component and movable relative to the movable component between a first position and a second position. The adjustment arm has an engagement surface defining a second configuration.

[0006] The adjustable control apparatus further includes a locking member having a first section complimentary in configuration with the first configuration of the engagement surface of the movable component. The locking member has a second section complimentary in configuration with the second configuration of the engagement surface of the adjustment arm. The locking member is movable between locked and unlocked positions. Both of the first and second sections of the locking member engage the respective engagement surfaces when in the locked position to fix the adjustment arm relative to the movable component. Only one of the first and second sections of the locking member engage the respective engagement surfaces when in the unlocked position to permit the movement of the adjustment arm relative to the movable component between the first and second positions.

[0007] Accordingly, the use of the locking member to selectively permit movement of the adjustment arm relative to the movable component reduces the cost of manufacturing a control apparatus having adjustable features by removing any electronic component to move the adjustment arm relative to the movable component. Furthermore, the locking member simplifies adjustment of the adjustment arm relative to the movable component requiring movement between two positions (i.e., the locked position and the unlocked position).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Advantages of the subject invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable control apparatus showing a mounting bracket, a movable component, an adjustment arm, and a locking member in a locked position.

[0010] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the adjustable control apparatus showing the mounting bracket, the movable component, the adjustment arm, and a plate.

[0011] Figure 3 is a partially exploded view of the adjustable control apparatus showing the mounting bracket, the movable component, the adjustment arm, the locking member, the plate, and a biasing member. [0012] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the adjustment arm, the locking member, the plate, and the biasing member.

[0013] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the adjustable control apparatus showing the mounting bracket, the movable component, the adjustment arm, and the locking member in an unlocked position.

[0014] Figure 6 is a side elevational view of the adjustable control apparatus showing the mounting bracket, the movable component, the adjustment arm, and the locking member; with the adjustment arm shown in a plurality of positions in both solid and phantom.

[0015] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable control apparatus showing the locking member in the unlocked position and the plate disposed in combination of a hole of movable component and a bore of the adjustment arm for assembling adjustment arm to the movable component.

[0016] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable control apparatus taken along

8- 8 shown in Figure 1, with the locking member in the locked position.

[0017] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable control apparatus taken along

9- 9 shown in Figure 5, with the locking member in the unlocked position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicates like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, an adjustable control apparatus 20 for use with a vehicle is generally shown in Figures 1 and 2. Typically, the adjustable control apparatus 20 is a pedal for use with the vehicle. For example, the vehicle may include any one of or any combination of a prime mover, a braking mechanism, and a manual transmission with the pedal coupled to and controlling any one of or any combination of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission. The prime mover selectively generates power to move the vehicle. The prime mover can be an engine, a motor, or any other device for propelling the vehicle. The braking mechanism, when selectively activated, slows and/or stops the vehicle. The braking mechanism may be a disc brake or a drum brake (as are known in art), or may be any other device for slowing and/or stopping the vehicle. The manual transmission selectively couples the prime mover with at least one wheel, track, or any other suitable propulsion device. The "selective" properties of each of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission refer to control of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission. Typically, the control of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission is accomplished through the use of the adjustable control apparatus 20. Even more typically, when more than one of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission are present, the adjustable control apparatus 20 is a plurality of adjustable control apparatuses 20 with each apparatus 20 individually coupled with whichever of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission is present.

[0019] The adjustable control apparatus 20 may be electronically coupled to a device (e.g., the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission) which the adjustable control apparatus 20 is designed to control. Alternatively, the adjustable control apparatus 20 may be mechanically coupled (by, for example, a linkage or a Bowden cable) to the device which the adjustable control apparatus 20 is designed to control. It is to be appreciated that the adjustable control apparatus 20 may be coupled to the device which the adjustable control apparatus 20 is designed to control by any suitable manner and in any suitable configuration.

[0020] Although the adjustable control apparatus 20 is typically used to control any one or any combination of the prime mover, the braking mechanism, and the manual transmission, it is to be appreciated that the adjustable control apparatus 20 may used to control any component of the vehicle. The vehicle is typically an off -highway vehicle, such as construction vehicles, agricultural vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, boats, etc. It is to be appreciated that the vehicle may be an on-highway vehicle such as a car or a light duty pickup, for transporting a user. It is to be appreciated that the vehicle may be any device for transporting the user.

[0021] Although the adjustable control apparatus 20 is typically a pedal, it is to be appreciated that the adjustable control apparatus 20 may be any suitable configuration for use with a vehicle; including, but not limited to, a throttle lever.

[0022] As shown in Figures 1-3, the adjustable control apparatus 20 includes a mounting bracket 22 adapted to be mounted to the vehicle. The adjustable control apparatus 20 further includes a movable component 24 coupled to the mounting bracket 22 and movable relative to the mounting bracket 22 between a rest position (which is shown in Figure 1) and an operational position (the location of which is generally shown by the arrow shown in Figure 1). The movable component 24 has an engagement surface 26 defining a first configuration, as shown in Figure 3.

[0023] The adjustable control apparatus 20 further includes an adjustment arm 28 coupled to the movable component 24 and movable relative to the movable component 24 between a first position and a second position, as general illustrated in Figures 5 and 6. The adjustment arm 28 has an engagement surface 30 defining a second configuration as shown in Figure 3.

[0024] The adjustable control apparatus 20 further includes a locking member 32 having a first section 34 complimentary in configuration with the first configuration of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24. The locking member 32 has a second section 36 complimentary in configuration with the second configuration of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28. The locking member 32 is movable between locked and unlocked positions, shown in Figures 1 and 5 respectively. Both of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 engage the respective engagement surfaces 26, 30 when in the locked position, as shown in Figure 8, to fix the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. Only one of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 engage the respective engagement surfaces 26, 30 when in the unlocked position, as shown in Figure 9, to permit the movement of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 between the first and second positions.

[0025] The mounting bracket 22 may be fixed to the vehicle. The mounting bracket 22 may be fixed to the vehicle by fasteners, welding, or any other suitable means. As such, the adjustable control apparatus 20 is mounted to the vehicle through the mounting bracket 22. The vehicle may have a floor and a wall adjacent to the floor. The mounting bracket 22 may be mounted to the wall, spaced from the floor. Such a configuration is usually referred to as suspending the adjustable control apparatus 20. Suspending the adjustable control apparatus 20 is advantageous in that contaminants, such as dirt and grass, which usually accumulate on the floor, are less likely to enter the adjustable control apparatus 20 suspended on the wall above the floor. It is to be appreciated that the adjustable control apparatus 20 may be mounted to the floor or in any other suitable configuration.

[0026] As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 5 , the adjustable control apparatus 20 may include a shaft 38, an end cap 40, and a magnetic assembly 42. The magnetic assembly 42, in turn, may include a shield and magnets, for electronically controlling a device as described above. A mounting cap, to which the magnetic assembly 42 is attached, may be provided on at least one end of the shaft 38 adjacent the sensor assembly. In certain embodiments, the mounting caps and the magnetic assemblies are provided at both ends of the shaft 38 adjacent the corresponding sensor assemblies. The shaft 38 and the end cap 40 may be secured together, for example by an appropriate fastener, such as a bolt, a screw, or a pin.

[0027] The shaft 38 may pi vo tally couple the movable component 24 and the mounting bracket 22, as generally illustrated by the arrow shown in Figure 1. Said differently, the movable component 24 is coupled to the mounting bracket 22 and may be pivotal relative to the mounting bracket 22. The shaft 38 may be self-lubricating, such as a Teflon®. - coated shaft 38 or a composite Delrin®. (Delrin®. 500CL) shaft 38 which may substantially eliminate the need for discrete bearings supporting the movable component 24. That is, the shaft 38 functions in place of a bearing, permitting simpler assembly of the adjustable control apparatus 20.

[0028] The mounting bracket 22 may include integrally- formed, inwardly-protruding bearing surfaces to support the shaft 38 and the movable component 24. The mounting bracket 22 may be a single component formed from a rigid material, for example steel, by an appropriate machining process, for example stamping. The bearing surfaces may be deep drawn into the mounting bracket 22. It is to be appreciated that the bearing surfaces may be formed by any suitable process.

[0029] The movable component 24 may define a pair of apertures. The mounting bracket 22 and the movable component 24 are assembled by aligning the apertures of the movable component 24 with bearing surfaces on the mounting bracket 22. The shaft 38 is inserted so as to pivotally couple the movable component 24 and the mounting bracket 22. Said differently, in such an embodiment the movement of the movable component 24 relative to the mounting bracket 22 between the rest position and the operational position is further defined as pivoting of the movable component 24 relative to the mounting bracket 22. The interior profile of the movable component 24 that defines the apertures complements an exterior profile of the shaft 38, thereby ensuring a secure, pivotal coupling between the movable component 24 and the mounting bracket 22. Once the shaft 38 is positioned, the end cap 40 is secured thereto in order to hold the shaft 38 in place.

[0030] Although the movable component 24 is shown in the Figures as being pivotally coupled to the mounting bracket 22, it is to be appreciated that the movable component 24 may move relative to the mounting bracket 22 in any suitable manner.

[0031] As shown in Figures 1 -3 and 5 , the movable component 24 may extend between a first component end 44 and a second component end 46. The movable component 24 may define the apertures at the first component end 44 such that the movable component 24 is pivotally coupled to the mounting bracket 22 at the first component end 44. The movable component 24 may have a pair of walls 48, 50 positioned at the second component end 46. The walls 48, 50 may be spaced from one another and independently positioned along substantially parallel planes. As such, the walls 48, 50 may define a cavity 52 between the pair of walls 48, 50.

[0032] As described above, the movable component 24 is movable relative to the mounting bracket 22 between the rest position and the operational position. As illustrated in Figure 1 , the adjustable control apparatus 20 may be oriented such that the second component end 46 of the movable component 24 is elevated in the rest position relative to the position of the second component end 46 of the movable component 24 in the operational position. Said differently, the movable component 24 is generally pressed down from the rest position to the operational position. It is to be appreciated that the rest and operational positions may be oriented in any suitable way such that the movable component 24 is movable between the rest and operational positions. Furthermore, at least one of the rest and operational positions may be a plurality of positions. For example, in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the rest position is a single position while the operational position may be any one of a plurality of positions other than the rest position. Said differently, the operational position is any position of the movable component 24 when depressed from the rest position. It is to be appreciated that the opposite may be true (i.e., the operational position is a single position and the rest position is a plurality of positions). Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that the rest and operational positions may each be a plurality of positions.

[0033] The movable component 24 may be biased toward the rest position. As such, the movable component 24 is normally disposed in the rest position with the movable component 24 moved to the operational position against the bias. In one embodiment, the movable component 24 may define a pocket with the adjustable control apparatus 20 including a hysteresis assembly disposed within the pocket and provides hysteresis forces, including frictional forces and return forces (i.e., bias toward the rest position), to the movable component 24. Specifically, hysteresis assembly may be coupled to each of the movable component 24 and the mounting bracket 22, with the hysteresis assembly providing a baseline force, (i.e., an initial displacement force) necessary to displace the movable component 24 from the rest position. The hysteresis assembly may also provide frictional forces and return forces designed to give the user the impression of resistance to movement when the movable component 24 is moved to the operational position and to bias the movable component 24 towards the rest position. Thus, if the user releases the movable component 24 (more specifically, the adjustment arm 28 fixed to the movable component 24), the movable component 24 will return to its initial, rest position, and will not stick in the operational position. It is to be appreciated that the bias exerted on the movable component 24 may be accomplished through any suitable component and through any suitable manner.

[0034] The adjustment arm 28 may extend between a first arm end 54 and a second arm end 56, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The first arm end 54 of the adjustment arm 28 may be coupled to the second component end 46 of the movable component 24, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 5, and 6. In particular, when the movable component 24 has the pair of walls 48, 50 defining the cavity 52 therebetween, the first arm end 54 of the adjustment arm 28 may be at least partially disposed within the cavity 52 between the pair of walls 48, 50. It is to be appreciated that the opposite may be true; specifically, the adjustment arm 28 may have the pair of walls 48, 50 defining the cavity 52 at the first arm end 54 with the second component end 46 of the movable component 24 at least partially disposed within the cavity 52 between the walls 48, 50. It is to be further appreciated that the adjustment arm 28 may be coupled to the movable component 24 in any suitable manner, at any suitable location, and in any suitable position.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1-6, the adjustment arm 28 may have a pedal pad 58 at the second arm end 56. The pedal pad 58 provides a large surface for engagement by the user (generally, a foot of the user.) It is to be appreciated that the pedal pad 58 may be located anywhere between and including the first and second arm ends 54, 56. Further, although the pedal pad 58 is shown in the Figures to be an integral component of the adjustment arm 28, it is to be appreciated that the pedal pad 58 may be an independent component coupled to the adjustment arm 28.

[0036] The adjustment arm 28 may pivot relative to the movable component 24 when moving between the first and second positions, as generally shown in Figures 5 and 6. Said differently, the adjustment arm 28 is coupled to the movable component 24 and may be pivotal relative to the movable component 24. Furthermore, the pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 may occur at the coupling of the adjustment arm 28 with the movable component 24. The pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 between the first and second positions is best shown in Figures 5 and 6. As is also shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first and second positions of the adjustment arm 28 may be any two positions of any number of a plurality of positions of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. As such, the first and second positions are not specific positions of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 and instead generally refer to any two positions of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. The pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 will be better understood through further description below. Furthermore, the first and second positions of the adjustment arm 28 (moreover, the plurality of positions of the adjustment arm 28) will be better understood through further description below. It is to be appreciated that the adjustment arm 28 may move relative to the movable component 24 in any suitable manner.

[0037] As shown in Figures 7 and 9, the second section 36 of the locking member 32 may remain engaged with the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 when in the unlocked position with the first section 34 of the locking member 32 disengaged from the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24. Said differently, the second section 36 of the locking member 32 may be continuously engaged with the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 to couple the locking member 32 to the adjustment arm 28. On the other hand, the first section 34 of the locking member 32 may selectively engage the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 (i.e., the first section 34 engages the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 in locked position, shown in Figures 1 and 8, and disengages the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 in unlocked position, shown in Figures 5, 7, and 9). This selective engagement allows for movement of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 in the unlocked position and for fixation of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 in the locked position, as will be better understood through further description below.

[0038] Although the second section 36 of the locking member 32 is operatively shown in Figures 7-9 to remain engaged with the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 when in the unlocked position with the first section 34 disengaged from the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24, it is to be appreciated that the opposite may be true (i.e., the first section 34 may remain engaged with the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 when in the unlocked position with the second section 36 disengaged from the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28). In addition, the engagement surfaces 26, 30 that the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 engage may be reversed. Said differently, the first section 34 may continuously or selectively engage the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 and the second section 36 may continuously or selectively engage the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, one of the pair of walls 48 of the movable component 24 may have the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24. It is to be appreciated that the other one of the pair of walls 50 or any other portion of the movable component 24 may have the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1 and 5 , both of the first section 34 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may have a plurality of protrusions 60, 62 complimenting one another, with the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 engaging the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 when in the locked position. The plurality of protrusions 62 of the movable component 24 may be referred to as a first plurality of protrusions 62. As such, the movable component 24 may have the first plurality of protrusions 62. The plurality of protrusions 60 of the first section 34 may be referred to as a second plurality of protrusions 60. As such, the locking member 32 has the first section 34 which may define the second plurality of protrusions 60. The protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may be the first configuration of the engagement surface 26. Furthermore, one of the pair of walls 48 of the movable component 24 may have the engagement surface 26 and the protrusions 62. It is to be appreciated that the second section 36 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may have the plurality of protrusions 60, 62 complimenting one another; however, for illustrative purposes the first section 34 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 are described below and shown in the Figures having the pluralities of protrusions 60, 62. It is to be appreciated that any description of the pluralities of protrusions 60, 62 may be applied to the second section 36 of the locking member 32 and engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 5, each of the protrusions 60 of the locking member 32 and each of the protrusions 62 of the movable component 24 may be aligned side-by-side and spaced from one another such that the protrusions 60, 62 at least partially define a plurality of channels 64, 66 between one another. The protrusions 60 of the first section 34 may extend toward the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 and protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may extend toward the first section 34 of the locking member 32. Each of the plurality of channels 64, 66 may receive the plurality of protrusions 60, 62 of the opposing component (i.e., the channels 64 defined by the first section 34 of the locking member 32 receive the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 and the channels 66 defined by the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 receive the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 of the locking member 32).

[0042] Each of the protrusions 60, 62 may have a wedge configuration. Said differently, each of the protrusions 60, 62 extend to a distal end with each of the protrusions 60, 62 having a pair of opposing surfaces extending toward the distal end and tapering toward each other at the distal end. It is to be appreciated that each of the protrusions 60, 62 may be shaped in any suitable configuration.

[0043] The locking member 32 may be movable along an axis A between the locked and unlocked positions (shown in Figures 1 and 5, respectively) with the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 being spaced from the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 when in the unlocked position. Said differently, protrusions 60 of the first section 34 may move relative to the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 such that the protrusions 60, 62 engage one another in the locked position and disengage one another in the unlocked positions. More specifically, as shown in Figure 7, the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 may have a first thickness Tl measured along the axis A. Typically, the first thickness Tl is substantially equal among all of the protrusions 60 of the first section 34; however, it is to be appreciated that the first thickness Tl may vary between the protrusions 60. Furthermore, the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may have a second thickness T2 measured along the axis A. Typically, the second thickness T2 is substantially equal among all of the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24; however, it is to be appreciated that the second thickness T2 may vary between the protrusions 62.

[0044] With the locking member 32 movable along the axis A, the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 of the locking member 32 engage the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 when the protrusions 60, 62 overlap one another along the axis A, as shown in Figure 8. More specifically, the locked position is defined by the position of the locking member 32 along the axis A where the protrusions 60, 62 overlap one another. The locked position may be a plurality of positions where the protrusions 60, 62 overlap one another. For example, as shown in Figures, the overlapping of the protrusions 60, 62 are dictated by the first thickness Tl of the protrusions 60. Said differently, as the locking member 32 moves in a first direction Dl along the axis A from the unlocked position to the locked, the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 have an initial engagement with the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 where the protrusions 60, 62 begin to overlap. The locking member 32 may continue to move in the first direction Dl until the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 fully overlap the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24. As such, the locked position may be a plurality of positions along the axis A equal to the first thickness Tl of the protrusions 60. Furthermore, the unlocked position may be a plurality of positions along the axis A where the protrusions 60, 62 do not overlap one another.

[0045] Although the first section 34 shown in the Figures moves in the first direction Dl until the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 fully overlap the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24, (which will be better understood through further description below), it is to be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 may continue to move in the first direction Dl until the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 do not overlap the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 and thus disengage. In such an embodiment, the locked position is a plurality of positions along the axis A equal to a combination of the first and second thicknesses Tl , T2 of the protrusions 60, 62. It is to be further appreciated that the locked position and the unlocked positions may be defined in any suitable way along the axis A.

[0046] In one embodiment, the axis A is the center of pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24, as shown in Figure 5. However, it is to be appreciated that the axis A may be spaced from the center of pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. [0047] As shown in Figures 1 and 5, the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 and the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may be disposed radially about the axis A. More specifically, the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 of the locking member 32 may extend away from the axis A and the protrusions 62 of engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may extend toward the axis A. It is to be appreciated that the protrusions 62 of engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may extend away from the axis A and the protrusions 60 of first section 34 of the locking member 32 may extend toward the axis A. It is to be appreciated that the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 and the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may be disposed radially about the axis A in any suitable configuration.

[0048] When radially disposed about the axis A, the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 of the of the locking member 32 may be spaced from one another at equal increments about the axis A, and the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may be spaced from one another at equal increments about the axis A in a configuration corresponding with the protrusions 60 of the first section 34. The spacing of the protrusions 60, 62 from one another at equal increments may define the first and second positions of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. Moreover, the spacing of the protrusions 60, 62 from one another at equal increments may define the plurality of positions (which include the first and second positions) of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. More specifically, as described above, each of the plurality of channels 64, 66 may receive the plurality of protrusions 60, 62 of the opposing component. As such, the locking member 32 moves into the locked position when the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 are aligned such that each of the plurality of channels 64, 66 receives the plurality of protrusions 60, 62 of the opposing component. Therefore, by orientating the protrusions 60, 62 of each of the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 about the axis A in corresponding configurations, the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 define the first and second positions (i.e., the plurality or positions) of the adjustment arm 28. In doing so the first and second positions (i.e., the plurality or positions) are specifically defined such that the user may incrementally adjust the position of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. Furthermore, the radial disposition of the protrusions 60, 62 ensures even force distribution between the protrusions 60, 62 about the axis A.

[0049] As shown in Figure 3 (and partially in Figure 4), both of the second section 36 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may have a plurality of ridges 68, 70 complimenting one another, with the ridges 68 of the second section 36 engaging the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 when in both the locked and unlocked position (shown in Figures 8 and 9, respectively). The plurality of ridges 70 of the adjustment arm 28 may be referred to as a first plurality of ridges 70. As such, the adjustment arm 28 may have the first plurality of ridges 70. The plurality of ridges 68 of the second section 36 may be referred to as a second plurality of ridges 68. As such, the locking member 32 has the second section 36 which defines the second plurality of ridges 68. The locking member 32 has the locked position preventing movement of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 with the first and second protrusions 62, 60 engaging each other and the first and second ridges 70, 68 engaging each other, and the unlocked position with the first and second protrusions 62, 60 spaced from each other to permit the pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. [0050] The ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may be the second configuration of the engagement surface 30. It is to be appreciated that the first section 34 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may have the plurality of ridges 68, 70 complimenting one another; however, for illustrative purposes the second section 36 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 are described below and shown in the Figures having the pluralities of ridges 68, 70. It is to be appreciated that any description of the pluralities of ridges 68, 70 may be applied to the first section 34 of the locking member 32 and engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24

[0051] As shown in Figure 3 (and partially in Figure 4), each of the ridges 68 of the locking member 32 and each of the ridges 70 of the adjustment arm 28 may be aligned side-by-side and spaced from one another such that the ridges 68, 70 at least partially define a plurality of recesses 72, 74 between one another. The ridges 68 of the second section 36 may extend toward the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 and ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may extend toward second section 36 of the locking member 32. Each of the plurality of recesses 72, 74 may receive the plurality of ridges 68, 70 of the opposing component (i.e., the recesses 72 defined by the second section 36 of the locking member 32 receive the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 and the recesses 74 defined by the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 receive the ridges 68 of the second section 36 of the locking member 32).

[0052] Each of the ridges 68, 70 may have a substantially rectangular configuration. Said differently, each of the ridges 68, 70 extend to a distal end with each of the ridges 68, 70 having a pair of opposing surfaces extending substantially parallel to one another toward the distal end. It is to be appreciated that each of the ridges 68, 70 may be shaped in any suitable configuration.

[0053] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the locking member 32 may be movable along the axis A between the locked and unlocked positions with the ridges 68 of the second section 36 continuously engaging the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 when moving between the locked and unlocked positions. Said differently, ridges 68 of the second section 36 may move relative to the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 while maintaining engagement between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0054] The ridges 68 of the second section 36 and the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may extend along the axis A facilitating the movability of the locking member 32 between the locked and unlocked positions while maintaining engagement of the ridges 68 of the second section 36 with the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 in each of the locked and unlocked positions to continuously couple the locking member 32 to the adjustment arm 28. More specifically, as shown in Figure 7, the ridges 68 of the second section 36 may have a third thickness T3 measured along the axis A. Typically, the third thickness T3 is substantially equal among all of the ridges 68 of the second section 36; however, it is to be appreciated that the third thickness T3 may vary between the ridges 68. Furthermore, the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may have a fourth thickness T4 measured along the axis A. Typically, the fourth thickness T4 is substantially equal among all of the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28; however, it is to be appreciated that the fourth thickness T4 may vary between the ridges 70. [0055] With the locking member 32 movable along the axis A, the ridges 68 of the second section 36 of the locking member 32 engage the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 when the ridges 68, 70 overlap one another along the axis A. Typically, the third thickness T3 of the ridges 68 of the second section 36 is less than the fourth thickness T4 of the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28, facilitating movement of the locking member 32 relative to the adjustment arm 28. Further, the difference between the third and fourth thicknesses T3, T4 is greater than either of the first and second thicknesses Tl, T2 of the protrusions 60, 62 of the first section 34 and the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24, respectively. As such, the locking member 32 moves along the axis A with the ridges 68, 70 of the locking member 32 and the adjustment arm 28 continuously engaging one another while the protrusions 60, 62 of the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 selectively engage one another (i.e., engage in the locked position and disengage in the unlocked position). It is to be appreciated that the ridges 68 of the locking member 32 and the ridges 70 of the adjustment arm 28 may continuously engage one another in any suitable manner.

[0056] As shown in Figure 3 (and partially in Figure 4), the ridges 68 of the second section 36 and the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may be disposed radially about the axis A. More specifically, the ridges 68 of the second section 36 of the locking member 32 may extend away from the axis A and the ridges 70 of engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may extend toward the axis A. It is to be appreciated that the ridges 70 of engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may extend away from the axis A and the ridges 68 of second section 36 of the locking member 32 may extend toward the axis A. It is to be appreciated that the ridges 68 of the second section 36 and the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may be disposed radially about the axis A in any suitable configuration.

[0057] When radially disposed about the axis A, the ridges 68 of the second section 36 of the of the locking member 32 may be spaced from one another at equal increments about the axis A, and the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28 may be spaced from one another at equal increments about the axis A in a configuration corresponding with the ridges 68 of the second section 36. The radial disposition of the ridges 68, 70 ensures even force distribution between the ridges 68, 70 about the axis A.

[0058] As described above, the plurality of protrusions 60, 62 of each of the first section 34 of the locking member 32 and the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 may define the first and second positions (moreover, the plurality of positions) of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. More specifically, the realignment of the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 relative to the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 about the axis A while maintaining the alignment of the ridges 68 of the second section 36 relative to the ridges 70 of the engagement surface 30 of the alignment arm about the axis A may define the positions of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures, the ridges 68, 70 are independently disposed within specific recesses 72, 74 and maintain disposition within the specific recesses 72, 74 in each of the locked and unlocked positions to fix the locking member 32 to the adjustment arm 28. On the other hand, the protrusions 60, 62 are independently disposed within channels 64, 66 in the locked position, but are removed from the channels 64, 66 in the unlocked position, as shown in Figure 6. As such, the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 may move relative to one another about the axis A such that the protrusions 60, 62 may be independently disposed within different channels 64, 66 when the locking member 32 moves from the unlocked position to the locked position. As such, the protrusions 60, 62 and the ridges 68, 70 cooperatively fix the movable component 24 with the adjustment arm 28 in the locked position.

[0059] The locking member 32 may have an abutment surface 76, as shown in Figure 3, to at least in part orientate the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 of the locking member 32 with the protrusions 62 of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 along the axis A when in the locked position. More specifically, as described above, the locking member 32 may have the plurality of ridges 68 disposed radially about the axis A. The ridges 68 may define the abutment surface 76, with the ridges 68 and the abutment surface 76 extending radially beyond the protrusions 60. The abutment surface 76 defines an outer limit of the locked position. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the abutment surface 76 abuts the wall 48 of the movable component 24 adjacent the protrusions 62 in the locked position, with the abutment of the abutment surface 76 with the movable component 24 aligning the protrusions 60 of the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 transverse to the axis A such that the protrusions 60, 62 of the locking member 32 and the movable component 24 fully overlap one another. In doing so, the abutment surface 76 defines a limit of the locked position, with the abutment surface 76 spaced from the movable component 24 in the additional positions defined as the locked position (as described above) and in the unlocked position. As such, the abutment surface 76 prevents the protrusions 60 of the first section 34 of the locking member 32 from passing by the protrusions 62 of the movable component 24 beyond the locked position. [0060] As shown in Figures 7-9, both of the engagement surfaces 26, 30 of the movable component 24 and the adjustment arm 28 may define a bore 78, 80 with the locking member 32 at least partially disposed within each of the bores 78, 80 of the movable component 24 and the adjustment arm 28 when in the locked position to fix the adjustment arm 28 to the movable component 24. More specifically, when present the protrusions 62 of the movable component 24 may at least partially define the bore 78 of the movable component 24 and the ridges 70 of the adjustment arm 28 may at least partially define the bore 80 of the adjustment arm 28. Each of the bores 78, 80 may have a substantially circular configuration centered about the axis A. It is to be appreciated that the bores 78, 80 may be any suitable shape or configuration.

[0061] The locking member 32 and each of the bores 78, 80 of the movable component 24 and the adjustment arm 28 may be defined along the axis A, with the locking member 32 movable along the axis A between the locked and unlocked positions. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the locking member 32 is continuously disposed in the bore 80 defined by the adjustment arm 28 while selectively disposed in the bore 78 defined by the movable component 24. Said differently, the locking member 32 is disposed in the bore 78 defined by the movable component 24 in the locked position and is not disposed in the bore 78 defined by the movable component 24 in the unlocked position.

[0062] The adjustable control apparatus 20 may further include a biasing member 82 engaged with and continuously biasing the locking member 32 toward the locked position. Moreover, the biasing member 82 may bias the first section 34 of the locking member 32 into engagement with the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24. The biasing member 82 may be disposed along and bias along the axis A to continuously bias the locking member 32 in the first direction D 1 toward the locked position, shown in Figure 8. When disposed along the axis A, the biasing member 82 is typically a helical compression spring extending longitudinally along the axis A. It is to be appreciated that the biasing member 82 may be any suitable configuration for biasing the locking member 32, including, but not limited to, a tension spring and a torsion spring.

[0063] As shown in Figures 3 and 7-9, the adjustable control apparatus 20 may further include a plate 84 with the biasing member 82 engaging each of the locking member 32 and the plate 84 with the plate 84 facilitating the continuous biasing of the locking member 32 toward the locked position. Said differently, the plate 84 may provide a supporting surface 86 which the biasing member 82 engages and in-turn bias the movable locking member 32 toward the locked position.

[0064] As shown in Figures 7-9, each of the locking member 32, the biasing member 82, and the plate 84 may be disposed along the axis A with the locking member 32 moving axially against the biasing member 82 toward the plate 84 when moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. More specifically, the locking member 32, the biasing member 82, and the plate 84 may be at least partially disposed within the bore 80 of the adjustment arm 28. Even more specifically, the biasing member 82 may be entirely disposed within the bore 80 with locking member 32 and the plate 84 at least partially disposed within the bore 80. It is to be appreciated that the locking member 32, the biasing member 82, and the plate 84 may be disposed anywhere along the axis A.

[0065] The plate 84 may be independently movable along the axis A relative to the locking member 32, as between in Figures 7 and 8. The plate 84 may have a retention surface 88 opposite the supporting surface 86. As shown in Figure 8, the retention surface 88 may engage a shoulder 90 of the adjustment arm 28 which defines a bottom 92 of the bore 80. More specifically, the shoulder 90 of the adjustment arm 28 is spaced from the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24. The biasing member 82 may bias and move the plate 84 in a second direction D2 along the axis A (opposite the first direction Dl) toward the shoulder 90. The engagement of the retention surface 88 with the shoulder 90 prevents further movement of the plate 84 in the second direction D2. With the retention surface 88 engaging the shoulder 90, the plate 84 supports the biasing member 82 and facilitates the bias exerted by the biasing member 82 on the locking member 32 in the first direction Dl toward the locked position.

[0066] As shown in Figures 7-9, both of the movable component 24 and the adjustment arm 28 may define a hole 94, 96 along the axis A with the plate 84 at least partially disposed within each of the holes 94, 96 of the movable component 24 and the adjustment arm 28 to pivotally couple the movable component 24 and the adjustment arm 28 along the axis A. More specifically, the hole 94 of the movable component 24 may be defined by the wall 48 of the movable component 24 opposite the wall 50 that defines the bore 78. Furthermore, the hole 96 of the adjustment arm 28 may be defined by the shoulder 90 of the adjustment arm 28.

[0067] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the plate 84 may have a body 98 and a projection 100 with the body 98 extending radially away from the projection 100 and the axis A. The body 98 of the plate 84 may have the supporting surface 86 and the retention surface 88 with the body 98 engaging the shoulder 90 of the adjustment arm 28 along the retention surface 88. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the projection 100 may extend through each of the holes 94, 96 of the adjustment arm 28 and the movable component 24. More specifically, with the retention surface 88 of the body 98 engaging the shoulder 90, the projection 100 extends through each of the holes 94, 96 of the adjustment arm 28 and the movable component 24. The holes 94, 96 may have a circular configuration and the projection 100 may have a corresponding cylindrical configuration that is closely sized to the holes 94, 96. The circular configuration of the holes 94, 96 and the cylindrical configuration of the projection 100 allows for pivoting of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 about the projection 100 and the axis A (when the locking member 32 is in the unlocked position). Said differently, the projection 100 of the plate 84 pivotally couples the adjustment arm 28 with the movable component 24.

[0068] The locking member 32 and the plate 84 may be rotationally fixed relative to each other to prevent twisting of the biasing member 82 between the locking member 32 and the plate 84. More specifically, the body 98 may have a plurality of ridges 102 and a plurality of recesses 104, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, configured to correspond with the ridges 70 and the recesses 74 of the adjustment arm 28, similar to the engagement of the ridges 68 and recesses 72 of the locking member 32 with the ridges 70 and recesses 74 of the adjustment arm 28. The ridges 102 of the plate 84 allow movement of the plate 84 along the axis A to facilitate assembly, but prevent rotation of the plate 84 relative to the adjustment arm 28. Because each of the locking member 32 and the plate 84 are rotationally fixed relative to one another and relative to the adjustment arm 28, the biasing member 82 disposed between the locking member 32 and the plate 84 does not encounter rotational forces exerted by one or both of the locking member 32 and the plate 84, and in turn is not twisted between the locking member 32 and the plate 84.

[0069] The use of the locking member 32 to selectively permit movement of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 reduces the cost of manufacturing a control apparatus having adjustable features by removing any electronic component to move the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24. Furthermore, the locking member 32 simplifies adjustment of the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 requiring movement between two positions (i.e., the locked position and the unlocked position).

[0070] The operation of assembling of the adjustable control apparatus 20, in the embodiment shown in the Figures, will be described below for illustrative purposes only.

[0071] The ridges 68, 102 of the locking member 32 and the plate 84 are aligned with the recesses 74 of the adjustment arm 28 as shown in Figure 3. The locking member 32, biasing member 82, and the plate 84 are placed within the bore 80 of the adjustment arm 28 with the plate 84 adjacent the shoulder 90 of the adjustment arm 28, with the biasing member 82 adjacent the plate 84, and with the locking member 32 adjacent the biasing member 82, opposite the plate 84. Force is exerted on each of the locking member 32 and the plate 84 (typically by an assembly technician) to move the locking member 32 and plate 84 toward each other against the bias of the biasing member 82, as shown in Figure 7. The locking member 32 is disposed entirely within the bore 80 of the adjustment arm 28 and the plate 84 is entirely disposed within the bore 80 or a combination of the bore 80 and the hole 96 of the adjustment arm 28 (i.e., the locking member 32 and the plate 84 do not extend outside of the adjustment arm 28).

[0072] The first arm end 54 of the adjustment arm 28 is placed within the cavity 52 between the pair of walls 48, 50 at the second component end 46 of the movable component 24. The bore 80 of the adjustment arm 28 is aligned with the bore 78 of the movable component 24 and the hole 96 of the adjustment arm 28 is aligned with the hole 94 of the movable component 24. The force exerted on the locking member 32 and the biasing member 82 is released. The bias of the biasing member 82 causes the locking member 32 to move in the first direction Dl toward the locked position and the plate 84 to move in the second direction D2. The body 98 of the plate 84 engages the shoulder 90 of the adjustment arm 28 with the projection 100 extending through the holes 94, 96 of the adjustment arm 28 and the movable component 24. The adjustment arm 28 is rotated slightly about the axis A to align the protrusions 60 of the locking member 32 with the channels 66 of the movable component 24. When aligned, the locking member 32 continues to move in the first direction Dl until the abutment surface 76 of the locking member 32 abuts the movable component 24 with the locking member 32 in the locked position, as shown in Figure 8.

[0073] The operation of moving the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 from the first position to the second position, in the embodiment shown in the Figures, will be described below for illustrative purposes only.

[0074] Force is exerted on the locking member 32 (typically by the user pressing the locking member 32) to move the locking member 32 against the bias of the biasing member 82 in the second direction D2 from the locked position (shown in Figures 1 and 8) to the unlocked position (shown in Figures 5 and 9).

[0075] The adjustment arm 28 is pivoted about the axis A relative to the movable component 24, as generally illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, to the second position in which the protrusions 60 of the locking member 32 are aligned with the channels 66 of the movable component 24. The force exerted on the locking member 32 is released. The bias of the biasing member 82 causes the locking member 32 to move in the first direction Dl toward the locked position shown in Figure 8. The abutment surface 76 of the locking member 32 abuts the movable component 24 and the locking member 32 is in the locked position.

[0076] The invention further provides for a method of adjusting an adjustable control apparatus 20 for use with the vehicle. The apparatus 20 includes the mounting bracket 22 adapted to be mounted to the vehicle, the movable component 24 coupled to the mounting bracket 22 and having the engagement surface 26 defining the first configuration. The apparatus 20 further includes the adjustment arm 28 coupled to the movable component 24 with the adjustment arm 28 having the engagement surface 30 defining a second configuration. Furthermore, the apparatus 20 includes the locking member 32 having the first section 34 complimentary in configuration with the first configuration of the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 and the second section 36 complimentary in configuration with the second configuration of the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28.

[0077] The method includes the steps of disengaging one of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 from engagement with the respective engagement surface 26, 30 (as shown in Figure 9) to define the unlocked position, moving the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 from the first position to the second position (as illustrated in Figure 6), and engaging both of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 with the respective engagement surfaces 26, 30 (as shown in Figure 8) to define the locked position.

[0078] The step of moving the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 may be further defined as pivoting the adjustment arm 28 relative to the movable component 24 from the first position to the second position about the axis A, as shown in Figure 6.

[0079] As shown in Figure 9, the step of disengaging one of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 from engagement with the respective engagement surface 26, 30 may be further defined as moving the locking member 32 along the axis A to disengage one of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 from engagement with the respective engagement surface 26, 30 to define the unlocked position. Furthermore, the step of moving the locking member 32 along the axis A to disengage one of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 from engagement with the respective engagement surface 26, 30 may be further defined as moving the locking member 32 along the axis A to disengage the first section 34 of the locking member 32 from engagement with the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 to define the unlocked position.

[0080] As shown in Figure 8, the step of engaging both of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 with the respective engagement surfaces 26, 30 may be further defined as moving the locking member 32 along the axis A to engage both of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 with the respective engagement surfaces 26, 30 to define the locked position. Furthermore, the step of moving the locking member 32 along the axis A to engage both of the first and second sections 34, 36 of the locking member 32 with the respective engagement surfaces 26, 30 is further defined as of moving the locking member 32 along the axis A to engage the first section 34 of the locking member 32 with the engagement surface 26 of the movable component 24 and the second section 36 of the locking member 32 with the engagement surface 30 of the adjustment arm 28.

[0081] The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. As is now apparent to those skilled in the art, many modifications and variations of the subject invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, wherein reference numerals are merely for convenience and are not to be in any way limiting, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.