EP2987047A1 - Kart comprising an adjustable pedal assembly and return means - Google Patents

Kart comprising an adjustable pedal assembly and return means

Info

Publication number
EP2987047A1
EP2987047A1 EP14727408.8A EP14727408A EP2987047A1 EP 2987047 A1 EP2987047 A1 EP 2987047A1 EP 14727408 A EP14727408 A EP 14727408A EP 2987047 A1 EP2987047 A1 EP 2987047A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pedal
kart
seat
frame
kart according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP14727408.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2987047B1 (en
Inventor
William Gergaud
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Sodikart SAS
Original Assignee
Sodikart SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sodikart SAS filed Critical Sodikart SAS
Publication of EP2987047A1 publication Critical patent/EP2987047A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2987047B1 publication Critical patent/EP2987047B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G1/00—Controlling members, e.g. knobs or handles; Assemblies or arrangements thereof; Indicating position of controlling members
    • G05G1/30—Controlling members actuated by foot
    • G05G1/40—Controlling members actuated by foot adjustable

Definitions

  • Adjustable pedal kart with return means
  • the field of the invention is that of recreational vehicles, and more specifically karts.
  • the invention relates to the adjustment of such karts, depending on the size of the driver.
  • Go-karts are motorized vehicles (for example, thermal engines or electric motors) operated on closed tracks as opposed to road vehicles. These tracks are outdoor (“outdoor”) or covered (“indoor”).
  • karts There are two main categories of karts: rental karts and leisure-competition karts.
  • the former are operated by professionals who rent them to individuals (rental ticket), or to companies in the context of staff motivation seminars or others.
  • the invention can be applied to all categories of karts. However, it applies in particular to rental karts. Indeed, these karts are driven by many different people, who can have very different sizes. It is therefore particularly desirable to adapt the kart to the size of its different drivers.
  • a kart usually has two pedals, an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal, mounted on a pedal. Each of the pedals is intended to be operated by a driver's foot.
  • the crankset In most existing karts, the crankset is fixed, and its position (ie its distance from the seat) is a compromise, ultimately poorly suited to most users.
  • the pedals are mounted on a sliding assembly, which can move closer or away at will seat. The pedal can then take a set of discrete positions relative to the seat, defined for example by a set of perforations made in a plate secured to a beam on which slides the pedal, in which is housed a locking pin secured to the pedal board .
  • the position of the pedal When a user sits aboard the kart, the position of the pedal must be adjusted, so that it is adapted to the size of his legs, and allows him to press the pedals with sufficient force.
  • the pilot can reach himself the joystick, although this is not easy when sitting in the seat of the kart.
  • a movement of the pedal is then relatively easy, as the user can push the pedal with his feet to move away from the seat.
  • it is much more complex when a small user succeeds on the kart to a larger user: in this case indeed, the user must exert traction on the pedal, foot or the hand, to approach the seat, which is difficult, if not impossible, without outside help.
  • patent document WO 2006/051115 discloses an adjustable pedal, in which the spacing between an upper portion and a lower portion of pedal is adjustable, to fit at the size of the pilot's foot.
  • the crankset is also sliding along a horizontal central beam, secured to the frame, so as to adapt to the length of the legs of the driver.
  • the settings of the distance of the pedal relative to the seat and the size of the pedals are combined, based on the finding that a driver with large legs, usually also has large feet.
  • the solution proposed in this document is based on a lower portion of pedal sliding along a horizontal central beam.
  • An upper portion of the crankset slides relative to the bottom portion of the bottom bracket by sliding sliders in grooves in the bottom portion of the bottom bracket.
  • the sliders are further provided with lugs sliding in a slot in the beam and which rises towards the front of the kart.
  • an object of the present invention is to provide a kart that optimizes the comfort and ergonomics of the pedal, regardless of the size of the driver.
  • the invention also aims to propose a kart for simply making adjustments of its various elements in a discrete or continuous manner.
  • Another objective is to provide such a device, which is simple and inexpensive to implement.
  • Yet another objective is to provide such a device, which is easily adjustable by the driver, when installed in the kart, without outside help.
  • the invention also aims to provide such a kart, which has increased safety conditions for the driver, especially in case of shock.
  • the invention responds to this need by providing a kart comprising a frame, a seat and a pedal including a brake pedal and an accelerator pedal, said pedal being slidably mounted on a beam integral with said frame, so as to allow adjustment the distance of said pedal from said seat.
  • such a kart comprises return means associated with said pedal, able to recall said pedal in a position of reduced distance relative to said seat.
  • the invention is based on a completely new and inventive approach to setting up a pedal in a kart, whether it is a rental kart or a leisure-competition kart, whether electric or with a thermal engine.
  • the invention proposes a pedal sliding along a fixed beam of the chassis, so that the driver of the kart can adapt the position of the pedal to the size of his legs, and also provides the presence of means of reminder that systematically bring the pedal back to the seat.
  • the driver wants to adjust the position of the pedal, the latter always returns to a position close enough to the seat, so that it is easily accessible to the driver. He then has only to push, for example with his feet, at a distance from the seat adapted to the size of his legs, if he wishes move it further, or lock it in a position close to the seat, if it is small.
  • reduced position of distance relative to the seat means either a minimum distance position relative to the seat (pedal at the end of travel along the beam on which it slides), or a position sufficiently close to the seat so that the pilot can easily access the pedal.
  • This automated reminder of the crankset in position of reduced distance compared to the seat greatly reduces the time of intervention of the manager of a track on each rental karts, before each start of race, and thus allows a significant economic gain, in reducing downtime, devoted to tedious adjustments to adapt the karts to the morphology of the drivers, between two successive races.
  • the return means are associated with damping means able to slow down said pedal at the end of the stroke when it returns to said reduced distance position.
  • the return means are "piloted" in speed by means of a jack, which damps the violent movements of the pedal, and prevents the latter from arriving abruptly and quickly on a limit stop arranged on the beam on which it slides.
  • such a kart comprises a control element capable of releasing a locking means of said crankset provided for locking the crankset in a determined position along said beam, such a control element being located within range. of a driver of said kart when said driver is seated in said seat.
  • the pedal when the pedal is positioned appropriately to the size of the legs of the driver, it can be locked in this position, so as to avoid inadvertent movement of the pedal during use of the kart.
  • a control element located within reach of hand (eg near the steering wheel or seat).
  • Such a control element unlocks the pedal: the return means can then play their role of reminder of the pedal in a position of reduced distance relative to the seat.
  • the pedal locks again automatically in the position in which it is located.
  • such a locking means is a locking pin provided with a fuse point capable of breaking in case of impact.
  • such a control element is a button (for example a push button), which can take a position locking, which is a rest position, and an unlocking position, corresponding to a depressed position of the button, second return means tending to return said button in said locking position.
  • a button for example a push button
  • second return means tending to return said button in said locking position.
  • such a control element acts on a cable flowing in a sheath and connected to said locking means.
  • rollers act as a guide-hose, in order to prevent the brake hose from pinching, getting caught, or taking a bad position when the pedal is moved. along the beam.
  • rollers may preferably have the form of reels, placed vis-à-vis, so as to ensure better lateral support of the sheath or tube.
  • said beam is adapted so that said pedals move away from the plane defined by said frame, when said pedal is moved away from said seat.
  • said beam is inclined relative to said plane defined by said frame, and rises towards the front of the kart.
  • the seat comprises a handle for adjusting a position of the seat relative to the frame.
  • Such a control handle is preferably positioned on the seat itself, and may be in the form of a simple flexible strap, located on the front part of the seat, for example at the crotch of the driver.
  • the adjustment handle is connected by a first end to the seat and by a second end to a cable having at each of its ends a locking lug cooperating with a housing of a plate having a series of housings, this plate being secured to the frame, each housing corresponding to a specific position of the seat relative to the frame, a pull exerted on the adjusting handle releasing the locking lugs of the corresponding housing.
  • the mechanism for adjusting the position of the seat is thus very simple to design and use.
  • a cable is stretched, under the front part of the seat, between two adjustment plates secured to the frame located respectively to the right and left of the seat.
  • Locking lugs are secured to each end of the cable and cooperate with the recesses in the adjustment plates.
  • the cable is connected in the middle to the adjustment handle.
  • Such a mechanism is therefore particularly simple to implement and use, and inexpensive.
  • a rear portion of said plate is raised relative to a front portion of said plate.
  • the adjusting plates in which are formed the housings receiving the locking lugs of the seat position are inclined towards the front of the kart.
  • the pilot wants to adjust the position of the seat, it is sufficient for him to push on his legs to move the seat back to the position adequate, wherein the locking lugs are housed in the corresponding housing of the adjusting plates.
  • Adjusting the seat position is particularly easy and ergonomic.
  • a steering column of the kart is connected to the chassis by a connecting rod of variable length, comprising a slider secured to the steering column, slidable in a slider secured to the chassis, and the connecting rod. is adapted to take a locked position in which the slide is supported on the inner walls of the slide.
  • the pilot can easily adjust the height of the steering column, and thus the height of the steering wheel.
  • the slider and the slideway are each connected by a pivot connection, to the steering column on the one hand, and to the chassis on the other hand. After adjustment by the pilot of the height of the steering column, it maintains a locked position by pressing the slide against the inner walls of the slide, also called mast.
  • the rod is also able to take an unlocked position in which the slide slides in the slide.
  • the locking of the steering column therefore operates by friction between the slide and the slide.
  • the friction between the slide and the slider is adjusted so that it is sufficient to maintain the column in the locked position under all the normal circumstances of use of the kart, but for the column to pass. automatically in the unlocked position when the kart undergoes a frontal impact.
  • the steering column is raised, and leaves room for ejection of the driver.
  • the ejection of the driver is in a trajectory passing over the steering wheel. The safety of the driver in case of impact is thus increased.
  • the slider is formed of two parts facing each other with variable spacing, each of the two parts being integral with a nut cooperating with a moving screw in rotation, so as to convey the rod from the locked position to the unlocked position, and vice versa.
  • the height adjustment of the steering column can be made by acting directly on this screw.
  • such a kart comprises return means for recalling the rod in the locked position.
  • the steering column As soon as the steering column is placed at the desired height, it automatically locks in this position, under the action of the return means.
  • Such automatic locking of the steering column is an important safety element. Even if you forget the driver, it ensures that the kart does not run with an unlocked steering column.
  • the steering column is of variable length.
  • FIG. overall perspective of a kart according to the invention
  • Figures 2A and 2B show a perspective view of the adjustable pedal of the invention in two distinct positions
  • Figures 3A and 3B show a side view of the pedal of Figures 2A and 2B;
  • Figure 4 provides a perspective view of the rear part of the pedal of Figures 2 and 3;
  • FIGS 5A and 5B illustrate the adjustment mechanism of the seat according to the invention
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of a front portion of the kart of the invention, and in particular of the adjustable steering column;
  • Figs. 7A to 7C are side views of the adjustable steering column of Fig. 6 in three separate locked positions;
  • Figure 8 shows the steering column of Figure 7B in the unlocked position
  • FIGS 9A and 9B illustrate in detail the adjustment mechanism of the steering column, in perspective on the one hand, and in section on the other hand.
  • the general principle of the invention is based on a kart in which the distance of the pedal relative to the seat is easily adjustable, by the pilot himself and whatever the size of the latter, and all the more so as biasing means tend to recall the pedalboard near the seat, as soon as that it is in the unlocked position.
  • Other adjustments, including the seat and the steering column are also provided on a secondary basis.
  • FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a kart according to the invention.
  • a kart is for example an electric rental kart. It comprises a frame, or frame, 1, four wheels 2, a seat 3, in which takes place the pilot.
  • a pedal assembly 4 described in more detail in the following figures, carries a brake pedal 21 and an accelerator pedal 22. This pedal 4 is slidably mounted on a central beam 5, which is integral with the frame 1.
  • the kart is directed by the steering wheel 6, mounted on the steering column 7, the adjustment mechanism will be described in more detail in the following figures.
  • the length adjustment of the pedals i.e. the adjustment of the distance of the pedals from the seat 3, is done by sliding the pedal 4 along the beam 5.
  • This length adjustment can be done and locked by means of a length adjustment device such as that shown in Figures 2A, 2B and 3A, 3B.
  • a length adjustment device such as that shown in Figures 2A, 2B and 3A, 3B.
  • the crankset is in a position of maximum distance relative to the seat 3 (not shown in the figure).
  • the crankset is in a position of reduced distance relative to the seat 3.
  • the crankset 4 consists of a base 20, which slides on the central beam 5.
  • the base 20 of the crankset also serves as support for two footrests 23 for supporting the heels of the driver.
  • Each pedal 21, 22 thus comprises a footrest 23 and an upper bar or portion on which the front end of the pilot's foot is supported. In operation, the upper bar of the pedal pivots about the axis of the footrest 23.
  • Other forms of pedals, for example full or with a flat upper portion, are of course possible.
  • a set of perforations is made in the upper part of the beam 5, which define as many discrete positions of the pedal relative to the seat.
  • the crankset is locked in one of these positions by means of a pin 24, which engages in one of the perforations of the beam.
  • the driver When it wishes to adjust the position of the pedal 4, the driver actuates a control button 25, connected by a sheathed cable 26 to the locking pin 24. The actuation of this control button 25 causes a retraction of the sheathed cable 26 , which releases the lock pin 24 of the perforation in which it is housed.
  • Such a locking pin 24 may be provided with a fuse point, so that when the kart is subjected to a violent impact, the locking pin breaks, and is therefore released from the perforation in which it is housed.
  • the crankset 4 can then back away from the seat, under the pressure exerted by the legs of the driver, which limits the injuries caused by the shock to the feet and ankles of the driver.
  • the end stop located on the front portion of the central beam 5 is also provided with such a fuse.
  • the adjustment can implement a rack, the cable driving a lug cooperating with the teeth of the rack.
  • Continuous adjustment is also possible, for example with a mechanism of the type described later, for the adjustment of the steering column.
  • a spring 27 is connected at one of its ends to a notch 271 formed in the beam 5, and at the other end thereof to a notch 272 formed in the base 20 of the pedal. When the locking pin 24 is released, the spring 27 tends to return the pedal 4 from the maximum position of removal in which it is shown in Figure 2A to a position of reduced distance as shown in Figure 2B.
  • the spring 27 can be replaced by a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder, which remembers the pedal to the seat, while slowing the pedal at the end of the race, to dampen the return movement of the pedal, and avoid violent movements.
  • the beam 5 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, or more precisely to the plane defined by the frame 1, and rises towards the front of the kart.
  • the distance between the footrest 23 and the floor (not shown) of the kart increases, when the pedal is away from the seat, assuming a horizontal floor, that is to say parallel to the plane of the frame.
  • the height position of the crankset also adapts to the size of the driver (considering that the size of the feet is substantially proportional to the size of the driver), and it has a comfortable driving position, the heel resting on the floor.
  • the pilot can move into the driving position, and press the control button 25 located at hand (for example, near the base of the steering column, as shown in Figure 1).
  • the pedal then moves automatically to the seat, thanks to the return means 27. It suffices for the driver to release the control button when the pedal is in the desired position so that it locks automatically again.
  • the pilot can simply push the pedal with his feet, until he reaches the position of his choice.
  • the commands resulting from the movement of the brake pedals 21 and accelerator 22 are transmitted to the control members of the kart by means of a brake hose and a sheath. acceleration control.
  • two sets of facing rollers 42i, 43i and 42 2 , 43 2 for example located side by side, are provided.
  • rollers 42, 43 are preferably in the form of a drum, so as to avoid any lateral displacement of the sheath or the tube relative to the rollers.
  • the kart of the invention also has means for adjusting the position of the seat 3 relative to the chassis 1.
  • the seat 3 is supported by a tubular frame comprising a first element 50 of substantially rectangular shape framing the seat, and two support lugs 51, located on the rear part of the seat 3.
  • the support lugs 51 are secured to the frame 1 by a pivot connection.
  • the tubular element 50 has in its front part two sliders 52 located under the front part of the seat, respectively to the right and left. These sliders 52 each slide along a plate 53 secured to the frame 1.
  • a control handle 54 which is for example in the form of a flexible strap, is accessible via a slot in the seat 3 itself, for example in its front part, substantially at the crotch of the driver .
  • This adjustment handle is engaged at its other end, with a cable 55 stretched between the two plates 53. More specifically, the cable 55 has at each of its ends a locking pin 56 which cooperates with a housing (notch, slot , etc.) formed in the plate 53, so as to lock the position of the sliders 52 relative to the chassis 1.
  • the sliders 52 can then slide freely along the plates 53, to position the seat 3 in a position adapted to the comfort of the pilot.
  • springs 57 push the locking lugs 56 into the housing of the plate 53 opposite which they are. The seat 3 is then immediately in the locked position.
  • the plates 53 are inclined towards the front of the kart, their rear end being higher than their front end. Thus, when the driver wants to adjust the seat, he simply push with his legs to find the appropriate position.
  • FIG. 6 firstly shows a perspective view of the front part of the kart of FIG. 1 (the pedal and the beam carrying it not being shown), on which the steering wheel 6 appears at the end of an axis. direction 7, also called steering column.
  • the steering column 7 transmits the rotational movement of the wheel 6 to the wheels 2 by means of rods.
  • the steering column 7 is connected to the frame 1 via a connecting rod 60 of variable length.
  • This rod comprises a slider 61 secured to the steering column 7 by a pivot connection, and a slide, or mast, 62 secured to the frame 1 by a pivot connection.
  • Side reinforcements 63, 64 may be arranged on either side of the slide 62, so as to form a triangle structure, and are also pivotally mounted relative to the frame 1.
  • An anti-torque piece 65 of substantially triangular shape, can be arranged between the base of the steering column 7 and the base of the mast 62, in order to support the steering column and to prevent any forward-rearward tilting of this column. last.
  • FIGS. 7A to 7B show three locked positions distinct from the steering column 7:
  • the height of the steering column 7 is adjusted by acting on an adjustment lever 66, which makes it possible to lock or unlock the movement of the slide 61 relative to the slideway 62, in accordance with the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 9B.
  • an adjustment lever 66 which makes it possible to lock or unlock the movement of the slide 61 relative to the slideway 62, in accordance with the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 9B.
  • the pilot wishes to adjust the height of the steering column 7, he pulls on the control lever 8, to place it in the unlocked position, as shown in Figure 8.
  • the steering column is placed at the same height relative to the frame 1 as in Figure 7B (same relative position of the slide 61 and the slide 62).
  • slideway 62 is in the form of a hollow square tube.
  • the slide 61 comprises two U-section pieces 611, 612 placed facing each other in the slideway 62. When these two pieces 611, 612 are spaced apart from each other, they bear on each other. the inner walls of the tube of the slideway 62, and prevent any sliding of the slide 61: the steering column is then in the locked position. Conversely, when they come closer to one another, they move away from the inner walls of the slideway 62 and allow the slide 61 to slide freely in the slideway 62, and thus a height adjustment of the steering column 7.
  • Each of the two U-shaped pieces 611, 612 forming the slide is secured to a nut 671, 672, one with a step to the right, and the other with a step to the left.
  • These nuts 671, 672 cooperate with a screw 68.
  • the lever 69 When pulling on the adjusting lever 66, the lever 69 is pivoted about the axis of the screw 68. The screw rotates, causing the nuts 671, 672 to move, and thus bringing the parts 611, 612 together the slide.
  • the connecting rod 60 is then in the unlocked position, allowing the pilot to adjust the steering column 7 to the desired height.
  • a spring 70 exerts a restoring force which tends to turn the screw 68 in the opposite direction, to move apart again the nuts 671, 672 and thus the U-shaped pieces 611, 612 forming slide
  • This spring 70 is connected by its upper end to a hook 701 secured to the lever 69, and its lower end to a hook 702 secured to the lower part. of the adjustment knob 66. It will be noted that, as a variant, the height of the steering column 7 could be adjusted by direct action on the screw 68, without the provision of a return system comprising the lever 69 and the control lever 66. However, the return system is more ergonomic. Other modes of adjustment acting on the spacing of the wings of the slider, are also possible.
  • a screw 71 passes right through the tightening mechanism comprising the screw 68 and the nuts 671, 672.
  • the head of the screw 71 is supported on the outer wall of the slide 62, by the intermediate of a washer 711. It is held in position by a nut 72, which bears on the opposite outer wall of the slideway 62, by means of a washer 721.
  • Such a screw 71-nut 72 allows to limit the deformation of the hollow tube forming the slide 62, due to the force exerted from the inside to the outside by the nuts 671, 672.
  • Such a system also makes it possible, by means of a torque wrench, to adjust the tightening force of the screw, and thus adjust the sliding.
  • the screw 71-nut 72 could for example be replaced by a rivet-type axis to maintain a constant separation of the walls of the slide tube, opposing the force exerted by the nuts 671 , 672.

Abstract

The invention relates to a kart comprising a chassis, a seat and a pedal assembly including a brake pedal and an accelerator pedal, said pedal assembly being slidably mounted on a beam solidly connected to the chassis, such that the distance between the pedal assembly and the seat can be adjusted. According to the invention, such a kart comprises return means associated with the pedal assembly, which can return the pedal assembly to a position at a reduced distance from the seat.

Description

Kart à pédalier réglable à moyens de rappel.  Adjustable pedal kart with return means.
1. Domaine de l'invention  1. Field of the invention
Le domaine de l'invention est celui des véhicules de loisir, et plus précisément des karts. Notamment, l'invention concerne le réglage de tels karts, en fonction de la taille du pilote.  The field of the invention is that of recreational vehicles, and more specifically karts. In particular, the invention relates to the adjustment of such karts, depending on the size of the driver.
Les karts sont des véhicules motorisés (par des moteurs thermiques ou des moteurs électriques par exemple) exploités sur des pistes fermées, par opposition à des véhicules roulant sur route. Ces pistes sont extérieures (« outdoor ») ou couvertes (« indoor »).  Go-karts are motorized vehicles (for example, thermal engines or electric motors) operated on closed tracks as opposed to road vehicles. These tracks are outdoor ("outdoor") or covered ("indoor").
On peut distinguer deux catégories principales de karts : les karts de location et les karts de loisir-compétition.  There are two main categories of karts: rental karts and leisure-competition karts.
Les premiers sont exploités par des professionnels qui les louent à des particuliers (location au ticket), ou à des entreprises dans le cadre de séminaires de motivation du personnel ou autres.  The former are operated by professionals who rent them to individuals (rental ticket), or to companies in the context of staff motivation seminars or others.
Les seconds sont la plupart du temps la propriété de personnes privées, qui les utilisent pour leur loisir, en s'entraînant et en participant à des compétitions.  The latter are mostly owned by private individuals, who use them for leisure, training and competing.
L'invention peut s'appliquer à toutes les catégories de karts. Cependant, elle s'applique en particulier aux karts de location. En effet, ces karts sont pilotés par de nombreuses personnes différentes, qui peuvent avoir des tailles très différentes. Il est alors particulièrement souhaitable d'adapter le kart à la taille de ses différents pilotes.  The invention can be applied to all categories of karts. However, it applies in particular to rental karts. Indeed, these karts are driven by many different people, who can have very different sizes. It is therefore particularly desirable to adapt the kart to the size of its different drivers.
2. Art antérieur et ses inconvénients  2. Prior art and its disadvantages
Un kart comporte généralement deux pédales, une pédale d'accélération et une pédale de frein, montées sur un pédalier. Chacune des pédales est destinée à être actionnée par un pied du pilote.  A kart usually has two pedals, an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal, mounted on a pedal. Each of the pedals is intended to be operated by a driver's foot.
Dans la plupart des karts existants, le pédalier est fixe, et sa position (i.e. son éloignement par rapport au siège) est un compromis, au final mal adapté à la plupart des utilisateurs. Il existe également des karts dans lesquels les pédales sont montées sur un ensemble coulissant, pouvant se rapprocher ou s'éloigner à volonté du siège. Le pédalier peut alors prendre un ensemble de positions discrètes par rapport au siège, définies par exemple par un ensemble de perforations pratiquées dans une plaque solidaire d'une poutre sur laquelle coulisse le pédalier, dans lesquelles vient se loger un ergot de verrouillage solidaire du pédalier. In most existing karts, the crankset is fixed, and its position (ie its distance from the seat) is a compromise, ultimately poorly suited to most users. There are also karts in which the pedals are mounted on a sliding assembly, which can move closer or away at will seat. The pedal can then take a set of discrete positions relative to the seat, defined for example by a set of perforations made in a plate secured to a beam on which slides the pedal, in which is housed a locking pin secured to the pedal board .
Lorsqu'un utilisateur prend place à bord du kart, la position du pédalier doit être réglée, de façon à ce qu'elle soit adaptée à la taille de ses jambes, et lui permette d'appuyer sur les pédales avec suffisamment de force.  When a user sits aboard the kart, the position of the pedal must be adjusted, so that it is adapted to the size of his legs, and allows him to press the pedals with sufficient force.
Ce réglage s'avère relativement fastidieux, dans la mesure où il nécessite généralement l'intervention d'un tiers, par exemple l'exploitant de la piste, qui doit aller déverrouiller le pédalier, à l'aide d'une manette prévue à cet effet à proximité des pédales, le déplacer jusqu'à la position adaptée à la taille du pilote, et le verrouiller ensuite manuellement dans cette nouvelle position.  This adjustment is relatively tedious, insofar as it usually requires the intervention of a third party, for example the operator of the track, who must go unlock the pedal, using a controller provided for this effect near the pedals, move it to the position adapted to the size of the driver, and then lock it manually in this new position.
Ceci est consommateur de temps, pour l'exploitant de la piste, qui doit intervenir sur l'ensemble des karts à chaque session, et génère au final une perte financière.  This is time consuming for the runway operator, who must intervene on all karts at each session, and ultimately generates a financial loss.
Dans certains cas, le pilote peut atteindre lui même la manette de réglage, bien que ceci soit peu aisé lorsqu'il est assis dans le siège du kart. Lorsqu'un utilisateur de grande taille succède à un utilisateur de plus petite taille, un déplacement du pédalier est alors relativement aisé, dans la mesure où l'utilisateur peut pousser le pédalier avec ses pieds pour l'éloigner du siège. En revanche, il s'avère beaucoup plus complexe lorsqu'un utilisateur de petite taille succède sur le kart à un utilisateur de plus grande taille : dans ce cas en effet, l'utilisateur doit exercer une traction sur le pédalier, au pied ou à la main, pour l'approcher du siège, ce qui est malaisé, sinon impossible, sans aide extérieure.  In some cases, the pilot can reach himself the joystick, although this is not easy when sitting in the seat of the kart. When a large user succeeds a smaller user, a movement of the pedal is then relatively easy, as the user can push the pedal with his feet to move away from the seat. However, it is much more complex when a small user succeeds on the kart to a larger user: in this case indeed, the user must exert traction on the pedal, foot or the hand, to approach the seat, which is difficult, if not impossible, without outside help.
Ainsi, le document de brevet WO 2006/051115, au nom du même demandeur que la présente demande de brevet, décrit un pédalier réglable, dans lequel l'écartement entre une portion supérieure et une portion inférieure de pédale est réglable, pour s'adapter à la taille du pied du pilote. En outre, le pédalier est également coulissant le long d'une poutre centrale horizontale, solidaire du châssis, de façon à s'adapter à la longueur des jambes du pilote. Thus, patent document WO 2006/051115, in the name of the same applicant as the present patent application, discloses an adjustable pedal, in which the spacing between an upper portion and a lower portion of pedal is adjustable, to fit at the size of the pilot's foot. In addition, the crankset is also sliding along a horizontal central beam, secured to the frame, so as to adapt to the length of the legs of the driver.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, les réglages de l'éloignement du pédalier par rapport au siège et de la taille des pédales sont combinés, partant du constat qu'un pilote ayant de grandes jambes, a généralement également de grands pieds.  In a particular embodiment, the settings of the distance of the pedal relative to the seat and the size of the pedals are combined, based on the finding that a driver with large legs, usually also has large feet.
Pour ce faire, la solution proposée dans ce document repose sur une portion inférieure de pédalier coulissant le long d'une poutre centrale horizontale. Une portion supérieure de pédalier coulisse par rapport à la portion inférieure de pédalier par l'intermédiaire de coulisseaux coulissant dans des gorges ménagées dans la portion inférieure de pédalier. Les coulisseaux sont en outre pourvus d'ergots coulissant dans une fente ménagée dans la poutre et qui s'élève vers l'avant du kart.  To do this, the solution proposed in this document is based on a lower portion of pedal sliding along a horizontal central beam. An upper portion of the crankset slides relative to the bottom portion of the bottom bracket by sliding sliders in grooves in the bottom portion of the bottom bracket. The sliders are further provided with lugs sliding in a slot in the beam and which rises towards the front of the kart.
Lors d'un changement de pilote, on peut déverrouiller le réglage du pédalier, pour l'adapter à la morphologie du nouveau pilote qui va prendre place à bord du kart. Cependant, si le nouveau pilote est plus petit que le pilote précédent, il doit opérer une traction malaisée sur le pédalier, afin de le rappeler dans une position plus proche du siège, en le faisant coulisser le long de la poutre centrale horizontale. L'effort de traction à opérer est important, compte tenu des frottements existant entre les différentes pièces constitutives de ce module de pédalier, et du poids de ce dernier.  When changing the driver, you can unlock the pedal setting, to adapt to the morphology of the new driver who will take place aboard the kart. However, if the new driver is smaller than the previous pilot, he must make a difficult pull on the pedal, to bring it back to a position closer to the seat, by sliding it along the horizontal central beam. The tensile force to operate is important, given the friction between the various components of this pedal module, and the weight of the latter.
Il existe donc un besoin d'une technique qui permette de pallier ces inconvénients de l'art antérieur.  There is therefore a need for a technique that overcomes these disadvantages of the prior art.
Plus généralement, il existe un besoin d'un kart dont les différents éléments puissent s'adapter à tout type de pilote, quelles que soient sa taille et sa morphologie.  More generally, there is a need for a kart whose different elements can adapt to any type of pilot, regardless of its size and morphology.
Plus particulièrement, un objectif de la présente invention est de proposer un kart qui permette d'optimiser le confort et l'ergonomie du pédalier, quelle que soit la taille du pilote. L'invention a également pour objectif de proposer un kart permettant d'effectuer simplement des réglages de ses différents éléments de façon discrète ou continue. More particularly, an object of the present invention is to provide a kart that optimizes the comfort and ergonomics of the pedal, regardless of the size of the driver. The invention also aims to propose a kart for simply making adjustments of its various elements in a discrete or continuous manner.
Un autre objectif est de fournir un tel dispositif, qui soit simple et peu coûteux à mettre en oeuvre.  Another objective is to provide such a device, which is simple and inexpensive to implement.
Encore un autre objectif est de fournir un tel dispositif, qui soit aisément réglable par le pilote, lorsqu'il est installé dans le kart, sans aide extérieure.  Yet another objective is to provide such a device, which is easily adjustable by the driver, when installed in the kart, without outside help.
L'invention a encore pour objectif de fournir un tel kart, qui présente des conditions de sécurité accrues pour le pilote, notamment en cas de choc.  The invention also aims to provide such a kart, which has increased safety conditions for the driver, especially in case of shock.
3. Exposé de l'invention  3. Presentation of the invention
L'invention répond à ce besoin en proposant un kart comprenant un châssis, un siège et un pédalier comprenant une pédale de frein et une pédale d'accélération, ledit pédalier étant monté coulissant sur une poutre solidaire dudit châssis, de façon à permettre un réglage de l'éloignement dudit pédalier par rapport audit siège.  The invention responds to this need by providing a kart comprising a frame, a seat and a pedal including a brake pedal and an accelerator pedal, said pedal being slidably mounted on a beam integral with said frame, so as to allow adjustment the distance of said pedal from said seat.
Selon l'invention, un tel kart comprend des moyens de rappel associés audit pédalier, aptes à rappeler ledit pédalier dans une position d'éloignement réduit par rapport audit siège.  According to the invention, such a kart comprises return means associated with said pedal, able to recall said pedal in a position of reduced distance relative to said seat.
Ainsi, l'invention repose sur une approche tout à fait nouvelle et inventive de réglage de pédalier dans un kart, qu'il s'agisse d'un kart de location ou d'un kart de loisir-compétition, qu'il soit électrique ou à moteur thermique.  Thus, the invention is based on a completely new and inventive approach to setting up a pedal in a kart, whether it is a rental kart or a leisure-competition kart, whether electric or with a thermal engine.
En effet, l'invention propose un pédalier coulissant le long d'une poutre solidaire du châssis, de façon à ce que le pilote du kart puisse adapter la position du pédalier à la taille de ses jambes, et prévoit également la présence de moyens de rappel qui ramènent systématiquement le pédalier vers le siège. Ainsi, lorsque le pilote veut régler la position du pédalier, ce dernier revient toujours dans une position assez proche du siège, de façon à ce qu'il soit aisément accessible au pilote. Celui-ci n'a alors plus qu'à le pousser, par exemple avec ses pieds, à une distance du siège adaptée à la taille de ses jambes, s'il souhaite l'éloigner davantage, ou à le verrouiller dans une position proche du siège, s'il est de petite taille. Indeed, the invention proposes a pedal sliding along a fixed beam of the chassis, so that the driver of the kart can adapt the position of the pedal to the size of his legs, and also provides the presence of means of reminder that systematically bring the pedal back to the seat. Thus, when the driver wants to adjust the position of the pedal, the latter always returns to a position close enough to the seat, so that it is easily accessible to the driver. He then has only to push, for example with his feet, at a distance from the seat adapted to the size of his legs, if he wishes move it further, or lock it in a position close to the seat, if it is small.
On notera que par « position d'éloignement réduit par rapport au siège », on entend soit une position d'éloignement minimum par rapport au siège (pédalier en bout de course le long de la poutre sur laquelle il coulisse), soit une position suffisamment proche du siège pour que le pilote puisse avoir aisément accès au pédalier.  It will be noted that by "reduced position of distance relative to the seat", it means either a minimum distance position relative to the seat (pedal at the end of travel along the beam on which it slides), or a position sufficiently close to the seat so that the pilot can easily access the pedal.
Contrairement aux solutions de l'art antérieur, il n'est donc plus nécessaire d'opérer une traction sur le pédalier pour le faire revenir dans une position proche du siège, traction qui était rendue peu aisée du fait des forces de frottement relatives entre les différents éléments du module de pédalier.  Unlike the solutions of the prior art, it is no longer necessary to operate a traction on the pedal to bring it back to a position close to the seat, traction that was made uncomfortable because of the relative friction forces between the different elements of the pedal module.
Ce rappel automatisé du pédalier en position d'éloignement réduit par rapport au siège diminue fortement le temps d'intervention du gérant d'une piste sur chacun des karts de location, avant chaque démarrage de course, et donc permet un gain économique important, en réduisant les temps morts, consacrés aux réglages fastidieux permettant d'adapter les karts à la morphologie des pilotes, entre deux courses successives.  This automated reminder of the crankset in position of reduced distance compared to the seat greatly reduces the time of intervention of the manager of a track on each rental karts, before each start of race, and thus allows a significant economic gain, in reducing downtime, devoted to tedious adjustments to adapt the karts to the morphology of the drivers, between two successive races.
Selon un premier aspect de l'invention, les moyens de rappel sont associés à des moyens d'amortissement aptes à ralentir ledit pédalier en fin de course lors de son retour vers ladite position d'éloignement réduit.  According to a first aspect of the invention, the return means are associated with damping means able to slow down said pedal at the end of the stroke when it returns to said reduced distance position.
On peut notamment prévoir d'utiliser un vérin formant lesdits moyens de rappel et lesdits moyens d'amortissement.  In particular, it is possible to use a jack forming said return means and said damping means.
Ainsi, les moyens de rappel sont « pilotés » en vitesse par l'intermédiaire d'un vérin, qui permet d'amortir les déplacements violents du pédalier, et évite que ce dernier n'arrive brusquement et rapidement sur une butée de fin de course ménagée sur la poutre sur laquelle il coulisse.  Thus, the return means are "piloted" in speed by means of a jack, which damps the violent movements of the pedal, and prevents the latter from arriving abruptly and quickly on a limit stop arranged on the beam on which it slides.
En effet, un tel retour brusque et non maîtrisé pourrait causer des blessures au pilote qui aurait déjà pris position à bord du kart, en venant heurter violemment ses pieds ou ses chevilles. La mise en œuvre de moyens d'amortissement associés aux moyens de rappel du pédalier permet donc d'accroître la sécurité du pilote, tout en lui offrant un bon confort de réglage. Indeed, such a sudden and uncontrolled return could cause injury to the driver who has already taken position on board the kart, coming violently against his feet or ankles. The implementation of means damping associated with the return means of the crankset thus increases the safety of the driver, while providing a good comfort of adjustment.
Selon un premier aspect de l'invention, un tel kart comprend un élément de commande apte à libérer un moyen de blocage dudit pédalier prévu pour bloquer le pédalier dans une position déterminée le long de ladite poutre, un tel élément de commande étant situé à portée de main d'un pilote dudit kart lorsque ledit pilote est assis dans ledit siège.  According to a first aspect of the invention, such a kart comprises a control element capable of releasing a locking means of said crankset provided for locking the crankset in a determined position along said beam, such a control element being located within range. of a driver of said kart when said driver is seated in said seat.
Ainsi, lorsque le pédalier est positionné de façon adaptée à la taille des jambes du pilote, il peut être verrouillé dans cette position, de façon à éviter tout déplacement intempestif du pédalier au cours de l'utilisation du kart. En outre, dès que le pilote souhaite modifier la position du pédalier (par exemple suite à un changement de pilote), il peut le faire aisément, tout en restant assis dans son siège, simplement en actionnant un élément de commande, situé à portée de main (par exemple à proximité du volant ou du siège). Un tel élément de commande déverrouille le pédalier : les moyens de rappel peuvent alors jouer leur rôle de rappel du pédalier dans une position d'éloignement réduit par rapport au siège. Lorsque le pilote relâche l'élément de commande, le pédalier se verrouille à nouveau automatiquement dans la position dans laquelle il se trouve.  Thus, when the pedal is positioned appropriately to the size of the legs of the driver, it can be locked in this position, so as to avoid inadvertent movement of the pedal during use of the kart. In addition, as soon as the driver wishes to change the position of the pedal (for example following a driver change), it can do easily, while sitting in his seat, simply by operating a control element, located within reach of hand (eg near the steering wheel or seat). Such a control element unlocks the pedal: the return means can then play their role of reminder of the pedal in a position of reduced distance relative to the seat. When the pilot releases the control element, the pedal locks again automatically in the position in which it is located.
Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, un tel moyen de blocage est un ergot de blocage muni d'un point fusible apte à se rompre en cas de choc.  According to another aspect of the invention, such a locking means is a locking pin provided with a fuse point capable of breaking in case of impact.
Ainsi, en cas de choc, le point fusible cède, et l'ergot de verrouillage se casse, ce qui libère le pédalier. Le pédalier peut alors reculer loin du siège, sous la pression exercée par les jambes du pilote, ce qui permet de limiter les dommages que le choc pourrait occasionner aux pieds et aux chevilles du pilote. Thus, in case of shock, the fuse point gives way, and the locking pin is broken, which releases the pedal. The pedal can then back away from the seat, under the pressure exerted by the legs of the driver, which limits the damage that the shock could cause the feet and ankles of the driver.
On peut également prévoir une butée de fin de course du pédalier, sur l'extrémité avant de la poutre centrale, qui soit équipée du même fusible apte à se rompre en cas de choc. It is also possible to provide a limit stop pedal of the pedal, on the front end of the central beam, which is equipped with the same fuse capable of breaking in case of impact.
Selon un aspect particulier de l'invention, un tel élément de commande est un bouton (par exemple un bouton poussoir), pouvant prendre une position de verrouillage, qui est une position de repos, et une position de déverrouillage, correspondant à une position enfoncée du bouton, des seconds moyens de rappel tendant à ramener ledit bouton dans ladite position de verrouillage. According to a particular aspect of the invention, such a control element is a button (for example a push button), which can take a position locking, which is a rest position, and an unlocking position, corresponding to a depressed position of the button, second return means tending to return said button in said locking position.
Selon une caractéristique avantageuse, un tel élément de commande agit sur un câble circulant dans une gaine et relié audit moyen de blocage.  According to an advantageous characteristic, such a control element acts on a cable flowing in a sheath and connected to said locking means.
Selon une caractéristique particulière de l'invention, au moins une des pédales étant connectée à une gaine ou un tube de transmission de commande de freinage ou d'accélération, le pédalier comprend au moins deux rouleaux en vis-à-vis entre lesquels est maintenu(e) la gaine ou le tube, les rouleaux étant destinés à guider la gaine ou le tube lors du coulissement du pédalier le long de la poutre.  According to a particular characteristic of the invention, at least one of the pedals being connected to a sheath or a braking or acceleration control transmission tube, the crankset comprises at least two facing rollers between which is maintained (e) the sheath or tube, the rollers being intended to guide the sheath or the tube during the sliding of the pedal along the beam.
Ainsi, pour la pédale de frein par exemple, de tels rouleaux jouent le rôle de guide-durite, afin d'éviter que la durite de frein ne se pince, ne se coince, ou ne prenne une mauvaise position lors du déplacement du pédalier le long de la poutre. De tels rouleaux peuvent de préférence avoir la forme de tourets, placés en vis-à-vis, de façon à assurer un meilleur maintien latéral de la gaine ou du tube. On peut également prévoir deux jeux de deux rouleaux, un jeu pour maintenir la durite de frein, et un jeu pour maintenir une gaine reliée à la pédale d'accélérateur.  Thus, for the brake pedal, for example, such rollers act as a guide-hose, in order to prevent the brake hose from pinching, getting caught, or taking a bad position when the pedal is moved. along the beam. Such rollers may preferably have the form of reels, placed vis-à-vis, so as to ensure better lateral support of the sheath or tube. One can also provide two sets of two rollers, a game to maintain the brake hose, and a game to maintain a sheath connected to the accelerator pedal.
Selon une autre caractéristique particulière de l'invention, ladite poutre est adaptée de façon que lesdites pédales s'éloignent du plan défini par ledit châssis, lorsque ledit pédalier est éloigné dudit siège.  According to another particular characteristic of the invention, said beam is adapted so that said pedals move away from the plane defined by said frame, when said pedal is moved away from said seat.
Notamment, ladite poutre est inclinée par rapport audit plan défini par ledit châssis, et s'élève vers l'avant du kart.  In particular, said beam is inclined relative to said plane defined by said frame, and rises towards the front of the kart.
Selon un autre aspect particulier de l'invention, le siège comprend une poignée de réglage d'une position du siège par rapport au châssis.  According to another particular aspect of the invention, the seat comprises a handle for adjusting a position of the seat relative to the frame.
Ainsi, outre le réglage de l'éloignement du pédalier, on peut également régler facilement la position du siège par rapport au châssis pour l'adapter à la taille et la morphologie du pilote. Une telle poignée de réglage est de préférence positionnée sur le siège lui-même, et peut se présenter sous la forme d'une simple sangle souple, située sur la partie avant du siège, par exemple au niveau de l'entrejambe du pilote. Thus, in addition to adjusting the distance of the pedal, one can also easily adjust the position of the seat relative to the chassis to suit the size and morphology of the driver. Such a control handle is preferably positioned on the seat itself, and may be in the form of a simple flexible strap, located on the front part of the seat, for example at the crotch of the driver.
Selon une caractéristique avantageuse, la poignée de réglage est reliée par une première extrémité au siège et par une deuxième extrémité à un câble présentant en chacune de ses extrémités un ergot de verrouillage coopérant avec un logement d'une plaque présentant une série de logements, cette plaque étant solidaire du châssis, chaque logement correspondant à une position déterminée du siège par rapport au châssis, une traction exercée sur la poignée de réglage libérant les ergots de verrouillage des logements correspondants.  According to an advantageous characteristic, the adjustment handle is connected by a first end to the seat and by a second end to a cable having at each of its ends a locking lug cooperating with a housing of a plate having a series of housings, this plate being secured to the frame, each housing corresponding to a specific position of the seat relative to the frame, a pull exerted on the adjusting handle releasing the locking lugs of the corresponding housing.
Le mécanisme de réglage de la position du siège est ainsi très simple de conception et d'utilisation. Un câble est tendu, sous la partie avant du siège, entre deux plaques de réglage solidaires du châssis situées respectivement à droite et à gauche du siège. Des ergots de verrouillage sont solidarisés à chacune des extrémités du câble et coopèrent avec des logements pratiqués dans les plaques de réglage. Le câble est relié, en son milieu, à la poignée de réglage. The mechanism for adjusting the position of the seat is thus very simple to design and use. A cable is stretched, under the front part of the seat, between two adjustment plates secured to the frame located respectively to the right and left of the seat. Locking lugs are secured to each end of the cable and cooperate with the recesses in the adjustment plates. The cable is connected in the middle to the adjustment handle.
Lorsque le pilote tire sur la poignée, la partie centrale du câble en tension se soulève, ce qui libère les ergots de verrouillage des logements correspondants : le siège est alors déverrouillé, et le pilote peut aisément le faire avancer ou le faire reculer pour le placer dans la position de son choix. Dès qu'il relâche la poignée, des moyens de rappel (par exemple des ressorts) situés au niveau de chaque ergot de fixation rappellent automatiquement le siège en position verrouillée. When the driver pulls on the handle, the central part of the tensioned cable is lifted, which frees the locking lugs of the corresponding housing: the seat is then unlocked, and the driver can easily move it forward or back to place it in the position of his choice. As soon as it releases the handle, return means (for example springs) located at each fixing lug automatically recall the seat in the locked position.
Un tel mécanisme est donc particulièrement simple de réalisation et d'utilisation, et peu coûteux.  Such a mechanism is therefore particularly simple to implement and use, and inexpensive.
Selon un aspect complémentaire de l'invention, une portion arrière de ladite plaque est élevée par rapport à une portion avant de ladite plaque.  According to a complementary aspect of the invention, a rear portion of said plate is raised relative to a front portion of said plate.
Ainsi, les plaques de réglage dans lesquelles sont ménagés les logements recevant les ergots de verrouillage de la position du siège sont inclinées vers l'avant du kart. Lorsque le pilote souhaite régler la position du siège, il lui suffit donc de pousser sur ses jambes pour faire reculer le siège, jusqu'à la position adéquate, dans laquelle les ergots de verrouillage viennent se loger dans les logements correspondants des plaques de réglage. Thus, the adjusting plates in which are formed the housings receiving the locking lugs of the seat position are inclined towards the front of the kart. When the pilot wants to adjust the position of the seat, it is sufficient for him to push on his legs to move the seat back to the position adequate, wherein the locking lugs are housed in the corresponding housing of the adjusting plates.
Le réglage de la position du siège est donc particulièrement aisé et ergonomique.  Adjusting the seat position is particularly easy and ergonomic.
Selon un autre aspect particulier de l'invention, une colonne de direction du kart est reliée au châssis par une bielle de longueur variable, comprenant un coulisseau solidaire de la colonne de direction, apte à coulisser dans une glissière solidaire du châssis, et la bielle est apte à prendre une position verrouillée dans laquelle le coulisseau est en appui sur des parois intérieures de la glissière.  According to another particular aspect of the invention, a steering column of the kart is connected to the chassis by a connecting rod of variable length, comprising a slider secured to the steering column, slidable in a slider secured to the chassis, and the connecting rod. is adapted to take a locked position in which the slide is supported on the inner walls of the slide.
Le pilote peut ainsi aisément régler la hauteur de la colonne de direction, et donc la hauteur du volant. Le coulisseau et la glissière sont chacun reliés par une liaison pivot, à la colonne de direction d'une part, et au châssis d'autre part. Après réglage par le pilote de la hauteur de la colonne de direction, on obtient un maintien en position verrouillée en plaquant le coulisseau contre les parois intérieures de la glissière, également appelée mât.  The pilot can easily adjust the height of the steering column, and thus the height of the steering wheel. The slider and the slideway are each connected by a pivot connection, to the steering column on the one hand, and to the chassis on the other hand. After adjustment by the pilot of the height of the steering column, it maintains a locked position by pressing the slide against the inner walls of the slide, also called mast.
La bielle est également apte à prendre une position déverrouillée dans laquelle le coulisseau coulisse dans la glissière.  The rod is also able to take an unlocked position in which the slide slides in the slide.
On peut ainsi procéder au réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction, en faisant coulisser le coulisseau dans la glissière, quand ce dernier n'est plus plaqué contre les parois intérieures de la glissière.  It is thus possible to adjust the height of the steering column, by sliding the slide in the slide, when the latter is no longer pressed against the inner walls of the slide.
Le verrouillage de la colonne de direction s'opère donc par friction entre la glissière et le coulisseau. Selon un aspect particulier de l'invention, le frottement entre la glissière et le coulisseau est ajusté de façon qu'il soit suffisant pour maintenir la colonne en position verrouillée dans toutes les circonstances normales d'utilisation du kart, mais pour que la colonne passe automatiquement en position déverrouillée lorsque le kart subit un choc frontal. Ainsi, en cas de choc, la colonne de direction se soulève, et laisse la place à l'éjection du pilote. Il est en effet bien connu qu'en cas de choc frontal, l'éjection du pilote se fait selon une trajectoire passant par-dessus le volant. La sécurité du pilote en cas de choc est ainsi accrue. Selon une caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le coulisseau est formé de deux pièces en vis-à-vis d'écartement variable, chacune des deux pièces étant solidaire d'un écrou coopérant avec une vis mobile en rotation, de façon à faire passer la bielle de la position verrouillée à la position déverrouillée, et inversement. The locking of the steering column therefore operates by friction between the slide and the slide. According to a particular aspect of the invention, the friction between the slide and the slider is adjusted so that it is sufficient to maintain the column in the locked position under all the normal circumstances of use of the kart, but for the column to pass. automatically in the unlocked position when the kart undergoes a frontal impact. Thus, in case of shock, the steering column is raised, and leaves room for ejection of the driver. It is indeed well known that in case of frontal impact, the ejection of the driver is in a trajectory passing over the steering wheel. The safety of the driver in case of impact is thus increased. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the slider is formed of two parts facing each other with variable spacing, each of the two parts being integral with a nut cooperating with a moving screw in rotation, so as to convey the rod from the locked position to the unlocked position, and vice versa.
Ainsi, en agissant sur la vis, les écrous se déplacent le long de cette dernière, et, selon le sens de la rotation, viennent écarter ou au contraire resserrer les deux pièces formant le coulisseau. Lorsque les deux pièces s'écartent, elles viennent en appui sur les parois intérieures de la glissière, ce qui rend impossible tout coulissement, et verrouille donc la position de la colonne de direction. Inversement, lorsque la rotation de la vis entraîne le rapprochement des deux pièces formant le coulisseau, ce dernier s'éloigne des parois de la glissière, à l'intérieure de laquelle il est donc libre de coulisser : c'est la position déverrouillée de la bielle.  Thus, by acting on the screw, the nuts move along the latter, and, depending on the direction of rotation, come away or on the contrary tighten the two parts forming the slide. When the two parts deviate, they come to bear on the inner walls of the slide, which makes it impossible to slide, and thus locks the position of the steering column. Conversely, when the rotation of the screw brings the two parts forming the slide together, the latter moves away from the walls of the slide, within which it is free to slide: this is the unlocked position of the slide. rod.
Le réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction peut s'effectuer en agissant directement sur cette vis. A titre alternatif, pour des raisons d'ergonomie, on peut prévoir un système à renvoi, dans lequel le pilote agit sur une manette de réglage reliée à la vis, comme décrit plus loin en relation avec les figures.  The height adjustment of the steering column can be made by acting directly on this screw. Alternatively, for reasons of ergonomics, it is possible to provide a return system, in which the pilot acts on a control lever connected to the screw, as described below in connection with the figures.
De façon avantageuse, un tel kart comprend des moyens de rappel permettant de rappeler la bielle en position verrouillée.  Advantageously, such a kart comprises return means for recalling the rod in the locked position.
Ainsi, dès que la colonne de direction est placée à la hauteur désirée, elle se verrouille automatiquement dans cette position, sous l'action des moyens de rappel. Un tel verrouillage automatique de la colonne de direction constitue un élément de sécurité important. Même en cas d'oubli du pilote, il permet d'assurer que le kart ne circule pas avec une colonne de direction déverrouillée.  Thus, as soon as the steering column is placed at the desired height, it automatically locks in this position, under the action of the return means. Such automatic locking of the steering column is an important safety element. Even if you forget the driver, it ensures that the kart does not run with an unlocked steering column.
Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, la colonne de direction est de longueur variable. Ainsi, on peut également régler l'éloignement du volant par rapport au siège, en plus du réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction. Ceci peut se faire par exemple au moyen d'un axe de direction télescopique. According to another aspect of the invention, the steering column is of variable length. Thus, one can also adjust the distance of the steering wheel relative to the seat, in addition to adjusting the height of the steering column. This can be done for example by means of a telescopic steering axis.
4. Liste des figures  4. List of figures
D'autres buts, caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description suivante, donnée à titre de simple exemple illustratif, et non limitatif, en relation avec les figures, parmi lesquelles : la figure 1 propose une vue d'ensemble en perspective d'un kart selon l'invention ;  Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description, given as a simple illustrative and nonlimiting example, in relation to the figures, in which: FIG. overall perspective of a kart according to the invention;
les figures 2A et 2B présentent une vue en perspective du pédalier réglable de l'invention dans deux positions distinctes ;  Figures 2A and 2B show a perspective view of the adjustable pedal of the invention in two distinct positions;
les figures 3A et 3B présentent une vue de côté du pédalier des figures 2A et 2B ;  Figures 3A and 3B show a side view of the pedal of Figures 2A and 2B;
la figure 4 propose une vue en perspective de la partie arrière du pédalier des figures 2 et 3 ;  Figure 4 provides a perspective view of the rear part of the pedal of Figures 2 and 3;
les figures 5A et 5B illustrent le mécanisme de réglage du siège selon l'invention ;  Figures 5A and 5B illustrate the adjustment mechanism of the seat according to the invention;
la figure 6 est une vue en perspective d'une partie avant du kart de l'invention, et notamment de la colonne de direction réglable ;  Figure 6 is a perspective view of a front portion of the kart of the invention, and in particular of the adjustable steering column;
les figures 7A à 7C sont des vues de côté de la colonne de direction réglable de la figure 6 dans trois positions verrouillées distinctes ;  Figs. 7A to 7C are side views of the adjustable steering column of Fig. 6 in three separate locked positions;
la figure 8 présente la colonne de direction de la figure 7B en position déverrouillée ;  Figure 8 shows the steering column of Figure 7B in the unlocked position;
les figures 9A et 9B illustrent en détail le mécanisme de réglage de la colonne de direction, en perspective d'une part, et en coupe d'autre part. Figures 9A and 9B illustrate in detail the adjustment mechanism of the steering column, in perspective on the one hand, and in section on the other hand.
5. Description détaillée de modes de réalisation de l'invention 5. Detailed Description of Embodiments of the Invention
Le principe général de l'invention repose sur un kart dans lequel l'éloignement du pédalier par rapport au siège est aisément réglable, par le pilote lui-même et quelle que soit la taille de ce dernier, et ce, d'autant plus que des moyens de rappel tendent à rappeler le pédalier à proximité du siège, dès qu'il est en position déverrouillée. D'autres réglages, notamment du siège et de la colonne de direction sont également prévus à titre secondaire. The general principle of the invention is based on a kart in which the distance of the pedal relative to the seat is easily adjustable, by the pilot himself and whatever the size of the latter, and all the more so as biasing means tend to recall the pedalboard near the seat, as soon as that it is in the unlocked position. Other adjustments, including the seat and the steering column are also provided on a secondary basis.
La figure 1 offre une vue en perspective d'un kart selon l'invention. Un tel kart est par exemple un kart de location électrique. Il comprend un châssis, ou cadre, 1, quatre roues 2, un siège 3, dans lequel prend place le pilote. Un ensemble pédalier 4, décrit plus en détail dans les figures suivantes, porte une pédale de frein 21 et une pédale d'accélérateur 22. Ce pédalier 4 est monté coulissant sur une poutre centrale 5, qui est solidaire du châssis 1.  Figure 1 provides a perspective view of a kart according to the invention. Such a kart is for example an electric rental kart. It comprises a frame, or frame, 1, four wheels 2, a seat 3, in which takes place the pilot. A pedal assembly 4, described in more detail in the following figures, carries a brake pedal 21 and an accelerator pedal 22. This pedal 4 is slidably mounted on a central beam 5, which is integral with the frame 1.
Le kart est dirigé grâce au volant 6, monté sur la colonne de direction 7, dont le mécanisme de réglage sera décrit plus en détail dans les figures suivantes.  The kart is directed by the steering wheel 6, mounted on the steering column 7, the adjustment mechanism will be described in more detail in the following figures.
5.1 Réglage du pédalier  5.1 Adjusting the pedalboard
Le réglage en longueur des pédales, i.e. le réglage de l'éloignement des pédales par rapport au siège 3, se fait en faisant coulisser le pédalier 4 le long de la poutre 5.  The length adjustment of the pedals, i.e. the adjustment of the distance of the pedals from the seat 3, is done by sliding the pedal 4 along the beam 5.
Ce réglage en longueur peut se faire et se verrouiller par le biais d'un dispositif de réglage en longueur tel que celui représenté sur les figures 2A, 2B et 3A, 3B. Sur les figures 2A et 3A, le pédalier se trouve dans une position d'éloignement maximum par rapport au siège 3 (non représenté sur la figure). Sur les figures 2B et 3B en revanche, le pédalier se trouve dans une position d'éloignement réduit par rapport au siège 3.  This length adjustment can be done and locked by means of a length adjustment device such as that shown in Figures 2A, 2B and 3A, 3B. In Figures 2A and 3A, the crankset is in a position of maximum distance relative to the seat 3 (not shown in the figure). In FIGS. 2B and 3B, on the other hand, the crankset is in a position of reduced distance relative to the seat 3.
Le pédalier 4 est constitué d'une base 20, qui coulisse sur la poutre centrale 5. La base 20 du pédalier sert également de support à deux cale-pieds 23 destinés à soutenir les talons du pilote. Chaque pédale 21, 22 comprend donc un cale-pied 23 et une barre, ou portion, supérieure sur laquelle appuie l'extrémité avant du pied du pilote. En fonctionnement, la barre supérieure de la pédale pivote autour de l'axe du cale-pied 23. D'autres formes de pédales, par exemple pleines ou avec une portion supérieure plane, sont bien sûr possibles.  The crankset 4 consists of a base 20, which slides on the central beam 5. The base 20 of the crankset also serves as support for two footrests 23 for supporting the heels of the driver. Each pedal 21, 22 thus comprises a footrest 23 and an upper bar or portion on which the front end of the pilot's foot is supported. In operation, the upper bar of the pedal pivots about the axis of the footrest 23. Other forms of pedals, for example full or with a flat upper portion, are of course possible.
Un ensemble de perforations est pratiqué dans la partie supérieure de la poutre 5, qui définissent autant de positions discrètes du pédalier par rapport au siège. Le pédalier est verrouillé dans l'une de ces positions au moyen d'un pion 24, qui s'engage dans l'une des perforations de la poutre. A set of perforations is made in the upper part of the beam 5, which define as many discrete positions of the pedal relative to the seat. The crankset is locked in one of these positions by means of a pin 24, which engages in one of the perforations of the beam.
Lorsqu'il souhaite régler la position du pédalier 4, le pilote actionne un bouton de commande 25, connecté par un câble sous gaine 26 au pion de verrouillage 24. L'actionnement de ce bouton de commande 25 entraîne une rétractation du câble sous gaine 26, ce qui libère le pion de verrouillage 24 de la perforation dans laquelle il est logé.  When it wishes to adjust the position of the pedal 4, the driver actuates a control button 25, connected by a sheathed cable 26 to the locking pin 24. The actuation of this control button 25 causes a retraction of the sheathed cable 26 , which releases the lock pin 24 of the perforation in which it is housed.
Un tel pion de verrouillage 24 peut être muni d'un point fusible, de sorte que, lorsque le kart subit un choc violent, le pion de verrouillage se casse, et se libère donc de la perforation dans laquelle il est logé. Le pédalier 4 peut alors reculer loin du siège, sous la pression exercée par les jambes du pilote, ce qui permet de limiter les blessures occasionnées par le choc aux pieds et aux chevilles du pilote. On peut également prévoir que la butée de fin de course ménagée sur la portion avant de la poutre centrale 5 soit également munie d'un tel fusible.  Such a locking pin 24 may be provided with a fuse point, so that when the kart is subjected to a violent impact, the locking pin breaks, and is therefore released from the perforation in which it is housed. The crankset 4 can then back away from the seat, under the pressure exerted by the legs of the driver, which limits the injuries caused by the shock to the feet and ankles of the driver. It is also possible that the end stop located on the front portion of the central beam 5 is also provided with such a fuse.
Selon une autre approche, le réglage peut mettre en œuvre une crémaillère, le câble pilotant un ergot coopérant avec les dents de la crémaillère. Un réglage continu est également possible, par exemple avec un mécanisme du type de celui décrit par la suite, pour le réglage de la colonne de direction.  According to another approach, the adjustment can implement a rack, the cable driving a lug cooperating with the teeth of the rack. Continuous adjustment is also possible, for example with a mechanism of the type described later, for the adjustment of the steering column.
Un ressort 27 est relié par l'une de ses extrémités à une encoche 271 ménagée dans la poutre 5, et par l'autre de ses extrémités à une encoche 272 ménagée dans la base 20 du pédalier. Lorsque le pion de verrouillage 24 est libéré, le ressort 27 tend à rappeler le pédalier 4 de la position d'éloignement maximum dans laquelle il est représenté sur la figure 2A vers une position d'éloignement réduit telle qu'illustrée en figure 2B.  A spring 27 is connected at one of its ends to a notch 271 formed in the beam 5, and at the other end thereof to a notch 272 formed in the base 20 of the pedal. When the locking pin 24 is released, the spring 27 tends to return the pedal 4 from the maximum position of removal in which it is shown in Figure 2A to a position of reduced distance as shown in Figure 2B.
Dès que le pilote relâche le bouton de commande 25, le pion 24 retombe immédiatement dans la perforation de la poutre 5 en vis-à-vis de laquelle il se trouve, de sorte que le pédalier se verrouille automatiquement dans sa nouvelle position. Si le pilote souhaite positionner le pédalier par exemple à mi-course le long de la poutre, il lui suffit donc de relâcher le bouton de commande 25 à mi- parcours du pédalier : le pion se loge dans la perforation en vis-à-vis de laquelle il se trouve, le pédalier se verrouille donc dans une position intermédiaire, et le ressort 27 ne peut donc plus rappeler le pédalier plus près du siège. As soon as the driver releases the control button 25, the pin 24 immediately falls into the perforation of the beam 5 opposite which it is, so that the pedal locks automatically in its new position. If the pilot wishes to position the pedal for example halfway along the beam, it suffices for him to release the command button 25 half way down the beam. pedal path: the pawn is housed in the hole opposite which it is, the pedal is locked in an intermediate position, and the spring 27 can not remember the pedal closer to the seat.
A titre de variante, le ressort 27 peut être remplacé par un vérin pneumatique ou hydraulique, qui permet de rappeler le pédalier vers le siège, tout en ralentissant le pédalier en fin de course, afin d'amortir le mouvement de retour du pédalier, et éviter tout déplacement violent.  Alternatively, the spring 27 can be replaced by a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder, which remembers the pedal to the seat, while slowing the pedal at the end of the race, to dampen the return movement of the pedal, and avoid violent movements.
Comme on pourra l'observer sur les figures 3A et 3B, la poutre 5 est inclinée par rapport au plan horizontal, ou plus précisément au plan défini par le châssis 1, et s'élève vers l'avant du kart. Ainsi, la distance entre le cale-pieds 23 et le plancher (non représenté) du kart augmente, lorsque le pédalier est éloigné du siège, dans l'hypothèse d'un plancher horizontal, c'est-à-dire parallèle au plan du châssis.  As can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B, the beam 5 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, or more precisely to the plane defined by the frame 1, and rises towards the front of the kart. Thus, the distance between the footrest 23 and the floor (not shown) of the kart increases, when the pedal is away from the seat, assuming a horizontal floor, that is to say parallel to the plane of the frame.
Ainsi, la position en hauteur du pédalier s'adapte également à la taille du pilote (considérant que la taille des pieds est sensiblement proportionnelle à la taille du pilote), et il dispose d'une position de conduite confortable, le talon reposant sur le plancher.  Thus, the height position of the crankset also adapts to the size of the driver (considering that the size of the feet is substantially proportional to the size of the driver), and it has a comfortable driving position, the heel resting on the floor.
Il est donc très aisé pour le pilote de régler l'éloignement du pédalier par rapport au siège, pour l'adapter à la taille de ses jambes, alors qu'il est installé dans le kart. En effet, le pilote peut se mettre en position de pilotage, et appuyer sur le bouton de commande 25 situé à portée de main (par exemple, à proximité de la base de la colonne de direction, comme illustré en figure 1). Le pédalier se rapproche alors automatiquement du siège, grâce aux moyens de rappel 27. Il suffit au pilote de relâcher le bouton de commande lorsque le pédalier se trouve dans la position souhaitée pour qu'il se verrouille à nouveau automatiquement. It is therefore very easy for the pilot to adjust the distance of the pedal relative to the seat, to adapt to the size of his legs, while it is installed in the kart. Indeed, the pilot can move into the driving position, and press the control button 25 located at hand (for example, near the base of the steering column, as shown in Figure 1). The pedal then moves automatically to the seat, thanks to the return means 27. It suffices for the driver to release the control button when the pedal is in the desired position so that it locks automatically again.
S'il a dépassé la position souhaitée, le pilote peut simplement pousser le pédalier avec ses pieds, jusqu'à atteindre la position de son choix. If he has exceeded the desired position, the pilot can simply push the pedal with his feet, until he reaches the position of his choice.
En outre, comme illustré en figure 4, les commandes résultant du mouvement des pédales de frein 21 et d'accélérateur 22 sont transmises aux organes de contrôle du kart au moyen d'une durite de frein et d'une gaine de commande d'accélération. Pour accompagner l'un de ces tubes 40, 41 lors du coulissement du pédalier le long de la poutre, on prévoit de le maintenir entre deux rouleaux 42, 43 en vis-à-vis solidarisés à la base 20 du pédalier 4. Comme illustré sur la figure 4, pour guider deux gaines ou tubes, on prévoit deux jeux de rouleaux en vis-à-vis, 42i, 43i et 422, 432 par exemple situés côte à côte. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the commands resulting from the movement of the brake pedals 21 and accelerator 22 are transmitted to the control members of the kart by means of a brake hose and a sheath. acceleration control. To accompany one of these tubes 40, 41 during the sliding of the pedal along the beam, it is expected to maintain between two rollers 42, 43 vis-à-vis secured to the base 20 of the pedal 4. As shown in FIG. 4, for guiding two sheaths or tubes, two sets of facing rollers 42i, 43i and 42 2 , 43 2, for example located side by side, are provided.
Ces rouleaux 42, 43 ont de préférence une forme de touret, de façon à éviter tout déplacement latéral de la gaine ou du tube par rapport aux rouleaux.  These rollers 42, 43 are preferably in the form of a drum, so as to avoid any lateral displacement of the sheath or the tube relative to the rollers.
On évite ainsi que ces gaines ou tubes 40, 41 ne se pincent, ne se déforment, ou ne se coincent lors du coulissement du pédalier 4 le long de la poutre 5.  This prevents sheaths or tubes 40, 41 from becoming pinched, deformed or jammed during sliding of the pedal 4 along the beam 5.
5.2 Réglage du siège  5.2 Seat adjustment
Outre le réglage de l'éloignement du pédalier, dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le kart de l'invention présente également des moyens de réglage de la position du siège 3 par rapport au châssis 1.  In addition to adjusting the distance of the pedal, in a particular embodiment, the kart of the invention also has means for adjusting the position of the seat 3 relative to the chassis 1.
Le siège 3 est soutenu par une armature tubulaire comprenant un premier élément 50 de forme sensiblement rectangulaire encadrant le siège, et deux pattes d'appui 51, situées sur la partie arrière du siège 3. Les pattes d'appui 51 sont solidarisées au châssis 1 par une liaison pivot.  The seat 3 is supported by a tubular frame comprising a first element 50 of substantially rectangular shape framing the seat, and two support lugs 51, located on the rear part of the seat 3. The support lugs 51 are secured to the frame 1 by a pivot connection.
L'élément tubulaire 50 présente en sa partie avant deux coulisseaux 52 situés sous la partie avant du siège, respectivement à droite et à gauche. Ces coulisseaux 52 coulissent chacun le long d'une plaque 53 solidaire du châssis 1.  The tubular element 50 has in its front part two sliders 52 located under the front part of the seat, respectively to the right and left. These sliders 52 each slide along a plate 53 secured to the frame 1.
Une poignée de réglage 54, qui se présente par exemple sous la forme d'une sangle souple, est accessible via une fente ménagée dans le siège 3 lui- même, par exemple dans sa partie avant, sensiblement au niveau de l'entrejambe du pilote. Cette poignée de réglage est en prise, à son autre extrémité, avec un câble 55 tendu entre les deux plaques 53. Plus précisément, le câble 55 présente en chacune de ses extrémités un ergot de verrouillage 56 qui coopère avec un logement (encoche, fente, etc.) ménagé dans la plaque 53, de façon à verrouiller la position des coulisseaux 52 par rapport au châssis 1. Lorsque le pilote tire sur la poignée de réglage 54, la traction exercée sur la partie médiane du câble tendu 55 fait sortir les ergots de verrouillage 56 de leurs logements : les coulisseaux 52 peuvent alors librement coulisser le long des plaques 53, pour positionner le siège 3 dans une position adaptée au confort du pilote. Dès que le pilote relâche la poignée de réglage 54, des ressorts 57 repoussent les ergots de verrouillage 56 dans les logements de la plaque 53 face auxquels ils se trouvent. Le siège 3 se retrouve alors immédiatement en position verrouillée. A control handle 54, which is for example in the form of a flexible strap, is accessible via a slot in the seat 3 itself, for example in its front part, substantially at the crotch of the driver . This adjustment handle is engaged at its other end, with a cable 55 stretched between the two plates 53. More specifically, the cable 55 has at each of its ends a locking pin 56 which cooperates with a housing (notch, slot , etc.) formed in the plate 53, so as to lock the position of the sliders 52 relative to the chassis 1. When the pilot pulls on the adjustment handle 54, the traction exerted on the middle part of the tensioned cable 55 causes the locking lugs 56 to come out of their seats: the sliders 52 can then slide freely along the plates 53, to position the seat 3 in a position adapted to the comfort of the pilot. As soon as the driver releases the adjustment handle 54, springs 57 push the locking lugs 56 into the housing of the plate 53 opposite which they are. The seat 3 is then immediately in the locked position.
On peut aussi prévoir que les plaques 53 soient inclinées vers l'avant du kart, leur extrémité arrière étant plus haute que leur extrémité avant. Ainsi, lorsque le pilote souhaite régler le siège, il lui suffit de pousser avec ses jambes pour trouver la position adéquate.  It is also possible that the plates 53 are inclined towards the front of the kart, their rear end being higher than their front end. Thus, when the driver wants to adjust the seat, he simply push with his legs to find the appropriate position.
On notera que, lors de ce réglage, seule la partie avant du siège 3 se déplace par rapport au châssis. En effet, la partie arrière su siège est reliée au châssis par une liaison pivot, par l'intermédiaire des pattes d'appui 51. En conséquence, le déplacement de la partie avant du siège 3 s'accompagne également d'une modification de son inclinaison par rapport au sol, ou au plan du châssis.  Note that during this adjustment, only the front portion of the seat 3 moves relative to the frame. Indeed, the rear portion of the seat is connected to the frame by a pivot connection, by means of the support legs 51. Consequently, the displacement of the front portion of the seat 3 is also accompanied by a modification of its inclination relative to the ground, or to the plane of the frame.
5.3 Réglage de la colonne de direction  5.3 Adjusting the steering column
On présente désormais, en relation avec les figures 6 à 9, un mécanisme de réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction du kart de l'invention. Un tel mécanisme peut être proposé sur un kart dans lequel le siège est réglable, mais également sur un kart dans lequel le mécanisme de réglage du siège présenté dans les figures 5A et 4B n'est pas présent.  There is now shown, in connection with Figures 6 to 9, a mechanism for adjusting the height of the steering column of the kart of the invention. Such a mechanism can be proposed on a kart in which the seat is adjustable, but also on a kart in which the seat adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 5A and 4B is not present.
La figure 6 présente tout d'abord une vue en perspective de la partie avant du kart de la figure 1 (le pédalier et la poutre le portant n'étant pas représentés), sur laquelle apparaît le volant 6, en extrémité d'un axe de direction 7, également appelé colonne de direction. La colonne de direction 7 transmet le mouvement de rotation du volant 6 aux roues 2 par l'intermédiaire de biellettes. Selon l'invention, la colonne de direction 7 est reliée au châssis 1 par l'intermédiaire d'une bielle 60 de longueur variable. Cette bielle comprend un coulisseau 61 solidarisé à la colonne de direction 7 par une liaison pivot, et une glissière, ou mât, 62 solidarisée au châssis 1 par une liaison pivot. FIG. 6 firstly shows a perspective view of the front part of the kart of FIG. 1 (the pedal and the beam carrying it not being shown), on which the steering wheel 6 appears at the end of an axis. direction 7, also called steering column. The steering column 7 transmits the rotational movement of the wheel 6 to the wheels 2 by means of rods. According to the invention, the steering column 7 is connected to the frame 1 via a connecting rod 60 of variable length. This rod comprises a slider 61 secured to the steering column 7 by a pivot connection, and a slide, or mast, 62 secured to the frame 1 by a pivot connection.
Des renforts latéraux 63, 64 peuvent être disposés de part et d'autre de la glissière 62, de façon à former une structure en triangle, et sont également montés pivotant par rapport au châssis 1.  Side reinforcements 63, 64 may be arranged on either side of the slide 62, so as to form a triangle structure, and are also pivotally mounted relative to the frame 1.
Une pièce anti-couple 65, de forme sensiblement triangulaire, peut être disposée entre la base de la colonne de direction 7 et le pied du mât 62, afin d'étayer la colonne de direction et d'éviter tout basculement avant-arrière de cette dernière.  An anti-torque piece 65, of substantially triangular shape, can be arranged between the base of the steering column 7 and the base of the mast 62, in order to support the steering column and to prevent any forward-rearward tilting of this column. last.
Selon l'invention, il est possible de régler la hauteur de la colonne de direction 7, et donc du volant 6, par simple coulissement du coulisseau 61 dans la glissière 62.  According to the invention, it is possible to adjust the height of the steering column 7, and therefore the steering wheel 6, by simply sliding the slide 61 in the slideway 62.
Ainsi les figures 7A à 7B présentent trois positions verrouillées distinctes de la colonne de direction 7 :  Thus, FIGS. 7A to 7B show three locked positions distinct from the steering column 7:
sur la figure 7A, la colonne de direction 7 est dans une position dite « basse » ;  in Figure 7A, the steering column 7 is in a position called "low";
sur la figure 7A, la colonne de direction 7 est dans une position dite « intermédiaire» ;  in Figure 7A, the steering column 7 is in a position called "intermediate";
sur la figure 7A, la colonne de direction 7 est dans une position dite « haute».  in Figure 7A, the steering column 7 is in a position called "high".
On notera qu'en modifiant la hauteur du volant 6, on modifie bien sûr également l'angle d'inclinaison de la colonne de direction 7 par rapport au plan du châssis 1.  Note that by changing the height of the steering wheel 6, of course also changes the angle of inclination of the steering column 7 relative to the plane of the frame 1.
Le réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction 7 s'effectue par action sur une manette de réglage 66, qui permet de verrouiller ou déverrouiller le mouvement du coulisseau 61 par rapport à la glissière 62, conformément au mécanisme de réglage des figures 9A et 9B. Lorsque le pilote souhaite régler la hauteur de la colonne de direction 7, il tire sur la manette de réglage 8, pour la placer en position déverrouillée, comme illustré sur la figure 8. Sur cette figure 8, la colonne de direction est placée à la même hauteur par rapport au châssis 1 que sur la figure 7B (même position relative du coulisseau 61 et de la glissière 62). The height of the steering column 7 is adjusted by acting on an adjustment lever 66, which makes it possible to lock or unlock the movement of the slide 61 relative to the slideway 62, in accordance with the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 9B. When the pilot wishes to adjust the height of the steering column 7, he pulls on the control lever 8, to place it in the unlocked position, as shown in Figure 8. In this Figure 8, the steering column is placed at the same height relative to the frame 1 as in Figure 7B (same relative position of the slide 61 and the slide 62).
Comme représenté sur les figures 9A et 9B, la glissière 62 se présente sous la forme d'un tube carré creux. Le coulisseau 61 comprend quant à lui deux pièces à section en U 611, 612 placées en vis-à-vis dans la glissière 62. Lorsque ces deux pièces 611, 612 sont écartées l'une de l'autre, elles viennent en appui sur les parois intérieures du tube de la glissière 62, et empêchent tout coulissement du coulisseau 61 : la colonne de direction est alors en position verrouillée. A l'inverse, lorsqu'elles se rapprochent l'une de l'autre, elles s'éloignent des parois intérieures de la glissière 62 et permettent un coulissement libre du coulisseau 61 dans la glissière 62, et donc un réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction 7. Chacune des deux pièces en U 611, 612 formant le coulisseau est solidaire d'un écrou 671, 672, l'un avec un pas à droite, et l'autre avec un pas à gauche. Ces écrous 671, 672 coopèrent avec une vis 68.  As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, slideway 62 is in the form of a hollow square tube. The slide 61 comprises two U-section pieces 611, 612 placed facing each other in the slideway 62. When these two pieces 611, 612 are spaced apart from each other, they bear on each other. the inner walls of the tube of the slideway 62, and prevent any sliding of the slide 61: the steering column is then in the locked position. Conversely, when they come closer to one another, they move away from the inner walls of the slideway 62 and allow the slide 61 to slide freely in the slideway 62, and thus a height adjustment of the steering column 7. Each of the two U-shaped pieces 611, 612 forming the slide is secured to a nut 671, 672, one with a step to the right, and the other with a step to the left. These nuts 671, 672 cooperate with a screw 68.
Lorsqu'on tire sur la manette de réglage 66, on fait pivoter le levier 69 autour de l'axe de la vis 68. La vis tourne, entraînant un déplacement des écrous 671, 672, et donc un rapprochement des pièces 611, 612 formant le coulisseau. When pulling on the adjusting lever 66, the lever 69 is pivoted about the axis of the screw 68. The screw rotates, causing the nuts 671, 672 to move, and thus bringing the parts 611, 612 together the slide.
La bielle 60 se trouve alors en position déverrouillée, permettant au pilote de régler la colonne de direction 7 à la hauteur souhaitée. The connecting rod 60 is then in the unlocked position, allowing the pilot to adjust the steering column 7 to the desired height.
Lorsqu'il relâche la manette de réglage 66, un ressort 70 exerce une force de rappel qui tend à faire tourner la vis 68 dans le sens inverse, pour écarter à nouveau les écrous 671, 672 et donc les pièces en U 611, 612 formant coulisseau When releasing the adjustment handle 66, a spring 70 exerts a restoring force which tends to turn the screw 68 in the opposite direction, to move apart again the nuts 671, 672 and thus the U-shaped pieces 611, 612 forming slide
61, et ainsi verrouiller tout déplacement relatif du coulisseau 61 par rapport à la glissière 62. Ce ressort 70 est relié par son extrémité haute à un crochet 701 solidaire du levier 69, et par son extrémité basse à un crochet 702 solidaire de la partie basse de la manette de réglage 66. On notera qu'à titre de variante, le réglage de la hauteur de la colonne de direction 7 pourrait se faire par action directe sur la vis 68, sans prévoir de système à renvoi comprenant le levier 69 et la manette de réglage 66. Un tel système à renvoi est cependant plus ergonomique. D'autres modes de réglage agissant sur l'écartement des ailes du coulisseau, sont également envisageables. 61, and thus lock any relative displacement of the slide 61 relative to the slide 62. This spring 70 is connected by its upper end to a hook 701 secured to the lever 69, and its lower end to a hook 702 secured to the lower part. of the adjustment knob 66. It will be noted that, as a variant, the height of the steering column 7 could be adjusted by direct action on the screw 68, without the provision of a return system comprising the lever 69 and the control lever 66. However, the return system is more ergonomic. Other modes of adjustment acting on the spacing of the wings of the slider, are also possible.
On notera par ailleurs qu'une vis 71 traverse de part en part le mécanisme de serrage comprenant la vis 68 et les écrous 671, 672. La tête de la vis 71 est en appui sur la paroi extérieure de la glissière 62, par l'intermédiaire d'une rondelle 711. Elle est maintenue en position par un écrou 72, qui est en appui sur la paroi extérieure opposée de la glissière 62, par l'intermédiaire d'une rondelle 721. Un tel système vis 71-écrou 72 permet de limiter la déformation du tube creux formant la glissière 62, due à l'effort exercé de l'intérieur vers l'extérieur par les écrous 671, 672. Un tel système permet également, au moyen d'une clé dynamométrique, de régler l'effort de serrage de la vis, et ainsi ajuster le coulissement.  Note also that a screw 71 passes right through the tightening mechanism comprising the screw 68 and the nuts 671, 672. The head of the screw 71 is supported on the outer wall of the slide 62, by the intermediate of a washer 711. It is held in position by a nut 72, which bears on the opposite outer wall of the slideway 62, by means of a washer 721. Such a screw 71-nut 72 allows to limit the deformation of the hollow tube forming the slide 62, due to the force exerted from the inside to the outside by the nuts 671, 672. Such a system also makes it possible, by means of a torque wrench, to adjust the tightening force of the screw, and thus adjust the sliding.
On peut notamment prévoir d'ajuster les forces de frottement entre la glissière et le coulisseau de façon à ce que la friction entre ces deux éléments soit suffisante pour retenir la colonne en position verrouillée dans toutes les circonstances normales d'utilisation du kart, mais pour que la colonne puisse se soulever en cas de choc frontal, et ainsi libérer un espace suffisant pour permettre une éjection du pilote.  In particular, it is possible to adjust the frictional forces between the slide and the slider so that the friction between these two elements is sufficient to hold the column in the locked position in all the normal circumstances of use of the kart, but for that the column can lift in the event of a frontal impact, and thus release sufficient space to allow ejection of the driver.
A titre de variante, l'ensemble vis 71-écrou 72 pourrait par exemple être remplacé par un axe de type rivet permettant de maintenir un écartement constant des parois du tube de la glissière, s'opposant à l'effort exercé par les écrous 671, 672.  Alternatively, the screw 71-nut 72 could for example be replaced by a rivet-type axis to maintain a constant separation of the walls of the slide tube, opposing the force exerted by the nuts 671 , 672.
On notera que ces différents mécanismes de réglage du pédalier, du siège et de la colonne de direction permettent d'obtenir un kart parfaitement adaptable à des pilotes de différentes tailles, ce qui s'avère particulièrement utile pour les karts de locations. Cependant, ces différents mécanismes de réglage peuvent être mis en œuvre indépendamment les uns des autres. Il est notamment possible de concevoir un kart dans lequel seul le siège ou seule la colonne de direction serait réglable, par exemple. It should be noted that these different adjustment mechanisms of the pedal, the seat and the steering column make it possible to obtain a kart perfectly adaptable to drivers of different sizes, which is particularly useful for rental karts. However, these different adjustment mechanisms can be implemented independently of each other. It is especially possible to design a kart in which only the seat or only the steering column would be adjustable, for example.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Kart comprenant un châssis, un siège et un pédalier comprenant une pédale de frein et une pédale d'accélération, ledit pédalier étant monté coulissant sur une poutre solidaire dudit châssis, de façon à permettre un réglage de l'éloignement dudit pédalier par rapport audit siège, 1. Kart comprising a frame, a seat and a pedal comprising a brake pedal and an accelerator pedal, said pedal being slidably mounted on a beam secured to said frame, so as to allow adjustment of the distance from said pedal relative audit headquarters,
caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens de rappel associés audit pédalier aptes à rappeler ledit pédalier vers une position d'éloignement réduit par rapport audit siège. characterized in that it comprises return means associated with said crankset adapted to recall said pedal to a position of reduced distance relative to said seat.
2. Kart selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de rappel sont associés à des moyens d'amortissement aptes à ralentir ledit pédalier en fin de course lors de son retour vers ladite position d'éloignement réduit. 2. Kart according to claim 1, characterized in that said biasing means are associated with damping means adapted to slow down said pedal at the end of the race when returning to said reduced distance position.
3. Kart selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un vérin formant lesdits moyens de rappel et lesdits moyens d'amortissement. 3. Kart according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises a jack forming said biasing means and said damping means.
4. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un élément de commande apte à libérer un moyen de blocage dudit pédalier prévu pour bloquer le pédalier dans une position déterminée le long de ladite poutre, 4. Kart according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises a control element adapted to release a locking means of said pedal provided to lock the pedal in a specific position along said beam,
ledit élément de commande étant situé à portée de main d'un pilote dudit kart lorsque ledit pilote est assis dans ledit siège. said control element being located within reach of a pilot of said kart when said driver is seated in said seat.
5. Kart selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que ledit moyen de blocage est un ergot de blocage muni d'un point fusible apte à se rompre en cas de choc.  5. Kart according to claim 4, characterized in that said locking means is a locking pin provided with a fuse point capable of breaking in case of impact.
6. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 4 et 5, caractérisé en ce que ledit élément de commande est un bouton, pouvant prendre une position de verrouillage, qui est une position de repos, et une position de déverrouillage, correspondant à une position enfoncée dudit bouton, des seconds moyens de rappel tendant à ramener ledit bouton dans ladite position de verrouillage. 6. Kart according to any one of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that said control element is a button, which can take a locking position, which is a rest position, and an unlocking position, corresponding to a position depressed said button, second return means tending to return said button in said locking position.
7. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 4 à 6, caractérisé en ce que ledit élément de commande agit sur un câble circulant dans une gaine et relié audit moyen de blocage. 7. Kart according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that said control element acts on a cable flowing in a sheath and connected to said locking means.
8. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce que, au moins une desdites pédales étant connectée à une gaine ou un tube de transmission de commande de freinage ou d'accélération, ledit pédalier comprend au moins deux rouleaux en vis-à-vis entre lesquels est maintenu(e) ladite gaine ou ledit tube, lesdits rouleaux étant destinés à guider ladite gaine ou ledit tube lors du coulissement dudit pédalier le long de ladite poutre.  8. Kart according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, at least one of said pedals being connected to a sheath or a braking or acceleration control transmission tube, said crankset comprises at least two rollers opposite each other between which said sheath or said tube is held, said rollers being intended to guide said sheath or said tube during the sliding of said crankset along said beam.
9. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que ladite poutre est adaptée de façon que lesdites pédales s'éloignent du plan défini par ledit châssis, lorsque ledit pédalier est éloigné dudit siège. 9. Kart according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said beam is adapted so that said pedals away from the plane defined by said frame, when said pedal is removed from said seat.
10. Kart selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que ladite poutre est inclinée par rapport audit plan défini par ledit châssis, et s'élève vers l'avant du kart.  10. Kart according to claim 9, characterized in that said beam is inclined relative to said plane defined by said frame, and rises towards the front of the kart.
11. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisé en ce que ledit siège comprend une poignée de réglage dudit siège par rapport audit châssis.  11. Kart according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that said seat comprises a handle for adjusting said seat relative to said frame.
12. Kart selon la revendication 11, caractérisé en ce que ladite poignée de réglage est reliée par une première extrémité audit siège et par une deuxième extrémité à un câble présentant en chacune de ses extrémités un ergot de verrouillage coopérant avec un logement d'une plaque présentant une série de logements, ladite plaque étant solidaire dudit châssis, chaque logement correspondant à une position déterminée dudit siège par rapport audit châssis, une traction exercée sur ladite poignée de réglage libérant lesdits ergots de verrouillage desdits logements correspondants.  12. Kart according to claim 11, characterized in that said adjustment handle is connected by a first end to said seat and a second end to a cable having at each of its ends a locking lug cooperating with a housing of a plate having a series of housings, said plate being secured to said frame, each housing corresponding to a determined position of said seat relative to said frame, a tension exerted on said adjusting handle releasing said locking lugs of said corresponding housing.
13. Kart selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce qu'une portion arrière de ladite plaque est élevée par rapport à une portion avant de ladite plaque.  13. Kart according to claim 12, characterized in that a rear portion of said plate is raised relative to a front portion of said plate.
14. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé en ce qu'une colonne de direction dudit kart est reliée audit châssis par une bielle de longueur variable, comprenant un coulisseau solidaire de ladite colonne de direction, apte à coulisser dans une glissière solidaire dudit châssis. 14. Kart according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a steering column of said kart is connected to said frame by a connecting rod of variable length, comprising a slider integral with said steering column, slidable in a slideway integral with said frame.
15. Kart selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que ladite bielle est apte à prendre une position verrouillée dans laquelle le coulisseau est en appui sur des parois intérieures de ladite glissière, et une position déverrouillée dans laquelle ledit coulisseau coulisse dans ladite glissière.  15. Kart according to claim 14, characterized in that said rod is adapted to take a locked position in which the slide bears on inner walls of said slide, and an unlocked position in which said slide slides in said slide.
16. Kart selon la revendication 15, caractérisé en ce que ledit coulisseau est formé de deux pièces en vis-à-vis d'écartement variable, chacune des deux pièces étant solidaire d'un écrou coopérant avec une vis mobile en rotation, de façon à faire passer ladite bielle de ladite position verrouillée à ladite position déverrouillée.  16. Kart according to claim 15, characterized in that said slider is formed of two pieces vis-à-vis variable spacing, each of the two parts being integral with a nut cooperating with a rotating screw, so passing said link from said locked position to said unlocked position.
17. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 16, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens de rappel permettant de rappeler ladite bielle en position verrouillée.  17. Kart according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that it comprises biasing means for biasing said rod in the locked position.
18. Kart selon l'une quelconque des revendications 14 à 17, caractérisé en ce que ladite colonne de direction est de longueur variable.  18. Kart according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that said steering column is of variable length.
EP14727408.8A 2013-04-17 2014-04-17 Adjustable kart pedal with return means Active EP2987047B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1353496A FR3004822B1 (en) 2013-04-17 2013-04-17 KART WITH ADJUSTABLE PEDAL WITH REMOVAL MEANS.
PCT/EP2014/057934 WO2014170449A1 (en) 2013-04-17 2014-04-17 Kart comprising an adjustable pedal assembly and return means

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2987047A1 true EP2987047A1 (en) 2016-02-24
EP2987047B1 EP2987047B1 (en) 2017-06-28

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EP (1) EP2987047B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2641757T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3004822B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2014170449A1 (en)

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RU2816281C1 (en) * 2023-10-24 2024-03-28 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "МИКС КАРТ" Adjustable pedal assembly for cart microcars

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FR3014069B1 (en) * 2013-11-29 2015-12-18 Sodikart KART WITH TILT STEERING COLUMN
FR3099126B1 (en) * 2019-07-24 2021-08-20 Sodikart Steering knuckle kart with offset knuckle axles, and corresponding knuckle assembly.
CN110979273B (en) * 2019-10-28 2024-04-19 哈尔滨工业大学（威海） Rapid adjusting device for FSAE racing car pedal
FR3103420B1 (en) * 2019-11-22 2021-11-05 Sodikart SOLUTION FOR ADJUSTING THE POSITION OF A SEAT ON THE STRUCTURE OF A KART

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FR2856371A1 (en) * 2003-06-19 2004-12-24 Franck Lagorce KART TYPE MOTOR VEHICLE, SUITABLE FOR A NOVICE USER
FR2878046B1 (en) * 2004-11-12 2007-04-13 Sodikart Sa LEISURE VEHICLE WITH ADJUSTABLE PEDAL

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RU2816281C1 (en) * 2023-10-24 2024-03-28 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "МИКС КАРТ" Adjustable pedal assembly for cart microcars

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WO2014170449A1 (en) 2014-10-23
ES2641757T3 (en) 2017-11-13
FR3004822A1 (en) 2014-10-24
EP2987047B1 (en) 2017-06-28
FR3004822B1 (en) 2015-05-22

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