Pedal Position Sensors

Pedal position sensors are essential components of modern automotive braking and acceleration systems, contributing to both safety and performance by providing accurate feedback on the status of the pedal to the engine control unit.

CTS has a long history of experience in pedal position technology, we offer customizable products and capabilities ranging from a simple switch to a dual output sensor. From accelerators to clutches and brakes, rotary or linear, contacting or non-contacting (Hall effect), we can design a packaged solution to function on a range of pedals. For EVs with Brake by Wire systems, our eBrake™, provides a fully integrated pedal solution that integrates a mechanical brake pedal with up to 6 position sensors and 1 switch.

Technical Resources

Brake Position Sensors

A brake position sensor is a component used in automotive braking systems to detect the position or status of the brake pedal. The primary function of the sensor is to detect whether the brake pedal is being pressed, released, or at an intermediate position. It provides feedback to the vehicle's electronic control systems, such as the engine control module (ECM) or the anti-lock braking system (ABS), to assist in various functions related to braking performance, safety, and efficiency.

CTS creates a wide range of building blocks that manufacturers can integrate into vehicle designs, giving engineers more freedom and variation. Our sensor teams can work directly with engineers to package and fit the correct sensor into systems to ensure all requirements are met.

Features
Applications
Technical Resources

Snow covered cars braking on snowy road

Features

Non-contacting and contacting technology options
Benefit from CTS’ expertise in application integration for custom solutions
Available in single output options today, tooled and ready for immediate use (dual-output options will be available for custom solutions)
Multiple electrical interfaces: PWM, Analogue

Applications

Acceleration and Speed Control - Electronic Throttle Control (ETC): Pedal position sensors are integral to electronic throttle control systems, also known as "drive-by-wire" systems. In these systems, there is no mechanical link between the accelerator pedal and the throttle body. Instead, the pedal position sensor measures the driver's pedal input, and the ECU adjusts the throttle position accordingly. This setup allows for precise control of engine power and throttle response.
Engine Diagnostics: Pedal position sensors are monitored by the ECU as part of onboard diagnostics (OBD) systems in modern vehicles. Any discrepancies or failures in pedal position sensor readings can trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and illuminate the "Check Engine" light, indicating potential issues that require attention or maintenance.
Cruise Control Systems: Pedal position sensors are utilized in cruise control systems to maintain a constant vehicle speed set by the driver. The ECU receives input from the pedal position sensor to determine the desired throttle opening, enabling the cruise control system to adjust engine power and maintain the selected speed without the need for continuous pedal input.
Stop Start Systems: Brake Pedal Sensors are an integral part of a stop start system, reading the position of the pedal and communicating to the brake control module