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SAE J2603-2021: Recommended Practice for Powered Gas Brake Control Systems
SAE J2603-2021 establishes uniform procedures for ensuring the manufactured quality, installed utility, and performance of automotive powered gas/brake control systems designed for drivers with physical disabilities. These systems adapt the vehicle’s accelerator and brake controls to be operated without using the feet, or with reduced effort, while retaining the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) pedals for non-disabled drivers.
What SAE J2603 Covers
This recommended practice applies to mechanical and electrical products that substitute for the use of OEM accelerator and brake pedals, yet retain the OEM pedals for use by non-disabled drivers. The output of the powered device is applied to the OEM brake and gas assembly to change the force or range of motion required of the disabled driver. All sections of the document apply to Group A primary controls.
| Scope Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Intended Users | Vehicle drivers with physical disabilities |
| Control Systems | Powered gas/brake systems (mechanical or electrical) that substitute for OEM pedals |
| OEM Pedal Retention | OEM pedals must remain functional for non-disabled drivers |
| Control Type | Group A primary controls |
| Exclusions | Manual driver controls, Group B primary controls, secondary controls, vehicles without powered brakes unless specifically designed, special controls for evaluation/training/research |
Design and Engineering Insights
Powered gas/brake control systems are designed to compensate for lost or reduced function in the extremities of the driver. They not only transfer foot functions to hands or from one side of the body to the other, but also supplement the driver’s force output with power assistance. Key design considerations include:
- Preservation of OEM Pedal Function: The system must allow the OEM pedals to be used by non-disabled drivers without interference.
- Force and Range of Motion: The system must meet the performance criteria specified in SAE J2604 for force and displacement.
- Electrical Safety: Wiring and terminals must comply with SAE J561, J858, and other applicable standards.
- Failsafe Operation: The system should default to a safe state in the event of power loss, ensuring the vehicle remains controllable.
- Mounting and Integration: The system must not interfere with other vehicle controls and must be securely mounted using fasteners meeting SAE standards.
⚠️ Important Safety Note: The system must retain the full functionality of OEM pedals. Any modification that disables the original pedals for non-disabled drivers is outside the scope of this recommended practice and may compromise vehicle safety.
🛠️ Engineering Tip: For comprehensive validation, refer to the accompanying test procedure SAE J2604, which provides methods to measure the criteria for design, manufacture, installation, operation, maintenance, and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of SAE J2603?
- SAE J2603 provides criteria to evaluate the design, manufacture, installation, operation, maintenance, and performance of powered gas/brake control systems for drivers with physical disabilities. It aims to ensure consistent quality and safety across adaptive driving equipment.
- Does J2603 apply to vehicles without powered brakes?
- No, unless the product is specifically designed for that application and clearly states so in its product literature. The standard is primarily intended for vehicles equipped with powered brakes.
- How does the system interface with OEM pedals?
- The powered control output is applied to the OEM brake and gas assembly to change the force or range of motion required. The OEM pedals are retained and remain functional for non-disabled drivers, ensuring the vehicle can be operated by any driver without special training.
- What testing is required for compliance?
- Performance testing must be conducted in accordance with SAE J2604, which includes tests for force, range of motion, durability, and electrical safety. The standard references numerous SAE fastener and component standards to ensure quality.
