Control system for an automated manual transmission with low height x-y shifter

Abstract

A control system for an automated manual transmission includes a base housing having a plurality of shift axles configured to move a respective one of a plurality of gear engaging clutches of the automated manual transmission. Each of the plurality of shift axles extends along a respective shift axle longitudinal axis. The control system further includes an X-Y shifter having a main shaft extending along a main shaft longitudinal axis. A first actuator is configured to rotate the main shaft about the main shaft longitudinal axis. A second actuator is configured to translate the main shaft along the main shaft longitudinal axis. Rotation of the main shaft about the main shaft longitudinal axis causes the main shaft to engage one of the plurality of shift axles. Translation of the main shaft along the main shaft longitudinal axis causes the engaged one of the plurality of shift axles to move along its respective shift axle longitudinal axis.

Description

[0001] Cross-citation of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 536,155, filed September 1, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to vehicle transmission systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a control system for an automatic manual transmission having a low-height XY shifter. Background Technology

[0004] Both automatic and manual transmissions are known. Automatic transmissions typically include planetary gears, hydraulic controls, and a torque converter. In use, the operator uses a transmission interface (e.g., a shift lever) to select the "drive position" (forward or reverse), and the automatic transmission automatically selects the appropriate gear ratio without further operator input. Manual transmissions typically include multiple constantly engaged gears mounted on different shafts (i.e., input shaft, countershaft, output shaft), and a clutch. In use, the operator must continuously assess the operating conditions to determine the appropriate gear ratios and must also operate the clutch while selecting those ratios.

[0005] While manual transmissions are generally cheaper and more robust, operators of vehicles equipped with manual transmissions must know how to assess the appropriate gear ratios for various operating conditions, how to operate the clutch, and how to shift gears between different ratios. This can require a great deal of training and practice.

[0006] Automatic manual transmissions have been developed to overcome some of the aforementioned problems related to operator training and practice while providing the advantages of traditional manual transmissions. Automatic manual transmissions operate similarly to traditional manual transmissions, utilizing electronics, actuators, and other components to automate various operations, such as clutch operation. One of these components is the XY shifter. However, known XY shifters have drawbacks because they are too complex, too expensive, or too large for certain applications. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one embodiment, a control system for an automatic manual transmission includes a base housing having a plurality of shift rails (shift forks) configured to move a corresponding one of a plurality of gear-engaging clutches of the automatic manual transmission. Each of the plurality of shift rails extends along a corresponding longitudinal axis. The control system also includes an XY shifter having a main shaft extending along a longitudinal axis of a main shaft. A first actuator is configured to rotate the main shaft about its longitudinal axis. A second actuator is configured to translate the main shaft along its longitudinal axis. Rotation of the main shaft about its longitudinal axis causes engagement of the main shaft with one of the plurality of shift rails. Translation of the main shaft along its longitudinal axis causes the main shaft to move the engaged shift rail along its corresponding longitudinal axis.

[0008] In another embodiment, a method of shifting gears in an automatic manual transmission having multiple gear-engaging clutches includes providing a base case and an XY shifter. The base case has multiple shift shafts configured to move a corresponding one of the multiple gear-engaging clutches. Each of the multiple shift shafts extends along a corresponding shift shaft longitudinal axis. The XY shifter has a main shaft, a first actuator, and a second actuator. The first actuator is actuated to rotate the main shaft about its longitudinal axis, thereby engaging the main shaft with one of the multiple shift shafts. The second actuator is actuated to translate the main shaft along its longitudinal axis, thereby causing the main shaft to translate the engaged shift shaft along its corresponding shift shaft longitudinal axis. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings illustrate the structure of exemplary embodiments of the claimed invention, which are described together with the detailed description provided below. Identical elements are identified by the same reference numerals. It should be understood that an element shown as a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and an element shown as multiple components may be replaced by a single component. The drawings are not drawn to scale, and some elements may be enlarged for illustrative purposes.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary control system for an automatic-manual transmission, the control system including an XY shifter and a base box. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partially exploded perspective view of the control system, showing the part of the XY shifter separated from the base box. Figure 3A yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the control system, showing a part of the XY shifter and a part of the base box; some components have been omitted for clarity. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An exploded view of a portion of the control system shown. Figure 3C yes Figure 3A A reverse perspective view of a portion of the control system shown. Figure 3D yes Figure 3A A top view of part of the control system shown. Figure 3E yes Figure 3A A bottom view of part of the control system shown. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the control system, showing the XY shifter and a part of the base box; some components have been omitted for clarity. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of the control system shows a portion of the XY shifter; some components have been omitted for clarity. Figure 6 It shows the electronic control unit of the control system and Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the communication paths between some parts of the control system. Figure 7A It can be utilized Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an automatic / manual transmission control system. Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Another perspective view of the automatic and manual transmissions. Figure 8 yes Figure 7A and Figure 7B The cross-sectional view of the automatic / manual transmission shown. Figure 9 It is used with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the main clutch used in both automatic and manual transmissions, as shown. Figure 10 It is used with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an inertial brake used in conjunction with an automatic and manual transmission, as shown. Figure 11 It is used with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pneumatic linear clutch actuator used in both automatic and manual transmissions, as shown in the figure. Figure 12A It is used with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a transmission electronic control unit used in conjunction with an automatic and manual transmission, as shown. Figure 12B This shows the electronic control unit of the transmission control system and Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 The diagram shows the communication paths between the parts of the automatic / manual transmission. Figure 13A yes Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 The side view of the first side of the automatic manual transmission shown, and Figure 13B yes Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 A perspective view of the second side of the automatic / manual transmission shown. Detailed Implementation

[0011] Figures 1 to 6 An exemplary control system 200 for an automatic manual transmission 1100 is shown, an exemplary embodiment of which is illustrated in Figures 7 through 13. According to one exemplary embodiment, the automatic manual transmission 1100 can provide six forward gears and has a torque capacity of at least 610 Newton-meters. In alternative embodiments, the automatic manual transmission may include more or fewer forward gears, or may have a larger or smaller torque capacity.

[0012] Referring to Figures 7 to 13, the automatic-manual transmission 1100 includes: an input gear 1105 permanently fixed to an input shaft 1110 for rotation therewith; a plurality of intermediate gears 1115a, 1115b, 1115c, 1115d, 1115e, 1115f, and 1115g permanently fixed to a countershaft 1120 for rotation therewith; and a plurality of output gears 1125a, 1125b, 1125c, 1125d, 1125e, and 1125f selectively fixed to an output shaft 1130 for rotation therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, intermediate gears 1115a, 1115b, 1115c, and 1115d are individually formed and subsequently mounted on the countershaft 1120, while intermediate gears 1115e, 1115f, and 1115g are integrally formed on the countershaft 1120. In an alternative implementation, any one or more intermediate gears may be formed individually and subsequently mounted on the countershaft, or they may be formed integrally on the countershaft.

[0013] The input gear 1105 is always meshed with the first intermediate gear 1115a of a plurality of intermediate gears, and the remaining intermediate gears 1115b, 1115c, 1115d, 1115e, and 1115f of a plurality of intermediate gears are always meshed with one of the output gears 1125a, 1125b, 1125c, 1125d, and 1125e of a plurality of output gears. Furthermore, the intermediate gear 1115g is drive-connected to the output gear 1125f via an idler gear (not shown) as known in the art to provide reverse gear.

[0014] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the desired gear ratio can be provided by selectively locking one of the output gears 1125a, 1125b, 1125c, 1125d, 1125e, 1125f to rotate with the output shaft 1130, or by selectively locking the input shaft 1110 directly to the output shaft 1130. The automatic-manual transmission 1100 may include speed sensors 1410 and 1415, respectively configured to monitor the rotational speed of the input shaft 1110 and the rotational speed of the output shaft 1130.

[0015] In alternative embodiments, the automatic-manual transmission may have fewer or more intermediate gears, fewer or more output gears, or more countershafts. In other alternative embodiments, the input gear may not always mesh with one of the multiple intermediate gears, or the intermediate gear may not always mesh with one of the multiple output gears.

[0016] Multiple gear engagement clutches 1135a, 1135b, 1135c, and 1135d selectively lock output gears 1125a, 1125b, 1125c, 1125d, 1125e, and 1125f to rotate with output shaft 1130 without the need for a synchronizer. Furthermore, the first gear engagement clutch among the multiple gear engagement clutches 1135a selectively locks input shaft 1110 directly to output shaft 1130. Each gear engagement clutch 1135a, 1135b, 1135c, and 1135d is permanently fixed to output shaft 1130 for rotation therewith, and each gear engagement clutch is axially movable along the length of output shaft 1130.

[0017] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the gear engagement clutches 1135a, 1135b, 1135c, and 1135d is a claw clutch. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, a claw clutch uses interlocking teeth (i.e., "claws") to engage rotating components. This differs from a friction clutch, which, as the name suggests, relies on friction to engage rotating components.

[0018] In alternative implementations, the automatic manual transmission may use other types of gear engagement clutches, or may include fewer or more gear engagement clutches. In other alternative implementations, the gear engagement clutches may utilize synchronizers to facilitate the selective locking of the output gear to the output shaft for rotation therewith.

[0019] The aforementioned components and other parts of the automatic manual transmission 1100 are housed within a two-piece housing 1140 and lubricated using a splash-type device. In alternative embodiments, the housing may include fewer or more parts. In other alternative embodiments, lubrication may be pressurized or supplied by a pump, or lubrication may be provided using any other suitable method.

[0020] Figure 9 It shows the use of with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 An exemplary embodiment of the main clutch 1300 used in conjunction with the automatic manual transmission 1100. The main clutch 1300 selectively engages the automatic manual transmission 1100 with a power source (e.g., a diesel engine, gasoline engine, electric motor, hybrid power unit). In particular, the main clutch 1300 selectively engages the power source with the input shaft 1110. According to one exemplary embodiment, the main clutch 1300 includes a 362 mm clutch disc using an SAE3 or SAE2 housing. In other alternative embodiments, the main clutch may use a larger or smaller clutch disc, or any desired housing may be used. For example, the main clutch may use an SAE1 housing.

[0021] Figure 10 It shows the relationship with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 An exemplary embodiment of the inertia brake 1400 used in conjunction with the automatic manual transmission 1100. As discussed above, the automatic manual transmission 1100 does not use a synchronizer. Instead, the inertia brake 1400 facilitates upshifting by slowing the rotation of parts of the automatic manual transmission 1100 or its power source. In alternative embodiments, the automatic manual transmission may use a combination of synchronizers and an inertia brake. In other alternative embodiments, the automatic manual transmission may use any desired means to slow the rotation of its components to facilitate upshifting.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the inertial brake 1400 is configured to slow the rotation of the countershaft 1120, is pneumatically actuated, and is lubricated by splashed oil generated by the gears in the automatic / manual transmission 1100. According to an exemplary embodiment, the inertial brake 1400 employs Eaton® E73 friction material and includes an electric valve 1405.

[0023] In alternative embodiments, the inertial brake can be configured to slow the rotation of other components of the automatic / manual transmission. In other alternative embodiments, the inertial brake can be actuated using any desired device. For example, the inertial brake can be electrically actuated using a solenoid. In still other alternative embodiments, the inertial brake can be lubricated using a pump or any other desired device. In yet another alternative embodiment, the inertial brake can employ any desired friction material. In still yet another alternative embodiment, the inertial brake can rely on an electromagnetic braking device instead of a friction material.

[0024] Figure 11 It shows the use of with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 An exemplary embodiment of the pneumatic linear clutch actuator 1500 used with the automatic manual transmission 1100 is described. The pneumatic linear clutch actuator 1500 is configured to actuate the main clutch 1300 to selectively engage or disengage the automatic manual transmission 1100 from the power source. The pneumatic linear clutch actuator 1500 can be controlled using integrated intake and exhaust valves 1510 and an integrated position sensor 1515. In alternative embodiments, the intake valve, exhaust valve, or position sensor may not be integrated. In other alternative embodiments, the main clutch can be actuated using any desired means. For example, the main clutch can be actuated using an electro- or hydraulic means.

[0025] Figure 12A It shows the use of with Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 An exemplary embodiment of the transmission electronic control unit 1600 used in conjunction with the automatic manual transmission 1100. The transmission electronic control unit 1600 controls the various components of the automatic manual transmission 1100 to provide the desired gear ratio. Figure 12B As shown, the transmission electronic control unit 1600 communicates with the main clutch 1300, the inertia brake 1400, and the pneumatic linear clutch actuator 1500 to control them during vehicle operation. Furthermore, the transmission electronic control unit 1600 communicates with the speed sensor 1410 for the input shaft 1110 and the speed sensor 1415 for the output shaft 1130 to improve control of the various components of the automatic / manual transmission 1100. Additionally, as discussed further below, the transmission electronic control unit 1600 communicates with the control system electronic control unit 315 of the control system 200. The transmission electronic control unit 1600 also communicates with the transmission user interface 1605 (e.g., a shift lever or shift knob), which the operator uses to select the desired gear ratio.

[0026] In alternative implementations, the transmission electronic control unit may communicate with, or control, more or fewer components of the automatic / manual transmission. In other alternative implementations, the transmission user interface may be any desired device. For example, the transmission user interface may use buttons or selection keys.

[0027] like Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, the automatic manual transmission 1100 includes two power take-off unit mounting points 1705, 1710 disposed on opposite sides of the housing 1140. This arrangement allows the power take-off unit to be mounted on either the left or right side of the automatic manual transmission 1100. Known automatic manual transmissions allow the power take-off unit to be mounted only on the left or only on the right side of the transmission, but not simultaneously on both sides. In alternative embodiments, the automatic manual transmission may include a greater number of power take-off unit mounting points. In other alternative embodiments, the power take-off unit mounting points may be disposed at any desired location on the housing.

[0028] Now turn to Control System 200, for reference. Figures 1 to 6 The control system includes a base housing 205 and an XY shifter 210. The base housing 205 includes a front support 220 and a rear support 225 that hold a plurality of shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d. Each shift shaft 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d can move along a corresponding longitudinal axis A. s1 A s2 A s3 A s4 The shift forks 235a, 235b, 235c, and 235d are independently translatable (i.e., one shift shaft can move while the other two remain stationary). Shift forks 235a, 235b, 235c, and 235d are mounted on a corresponding one of the shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d to move with it. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, each shift fork 235a, 235b, 235c, and 235d is connected to a corresponding gear engagement clutch 1135a, 1135b, 1135c, and 1135d in the automatic / manual transmission 1100. Therefore, movement of one of the shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d ultimately causes movement of one of the gear engagement clutches 1135a, 1135b, 1135c, and 1135d via the corresponding shift fork 235a, 235b, 235c, and 235d.

[0029] In alternative embodiments, the base box may include fewer or more shift shafts. In other alternative embodiments, the base box may include fewer or more supports, or the supports may be omitted. In still other alternative embodiments, one or more shift forks may be connected to different components of the automatic / manual transmission. In yet another alternative embodiment, one or more shift forks may be omitted.

[0030] The XY shifter 210 is configured such that shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d are aligned along their respective longitudinal axes A. s1 A s2 A s3 A s4 Translation. The XY shifter 210 includes a spindle 245 held by a front support 220 and a rear support 225 of a base housing 205. An ear-shaped portion 250 is mounted on the spindle 245.

[0031] The spindle 245 can rotate around its longitudinal axis A m It can rotate, and also along its longitudinal axis A. m Translation. The longitudinal axis A of the main shaft. m The longitudinal axis A of shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d s1 A s2 A s3 A s4 Each of them extends in a basically parallel manner.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, the XY shifter may include more than one spindle. In other alternative embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the spindle may extend at a non-parallel angle relative to any of the longitudinal axes of the shift shaft.

[0033] The main spindle 245 is about its longitudinal axis A m Rotation is the "gear selection action", and the spindle 245 is along its longitudinal axis A. m Translation is a "gear shifting action". The XY shifter 210 includes a rotary motion sensor 255 and a linear motion sensor 260, both configured to monitor the position of the main shaft 245. The rotary motion sensor 255 monitors the main shaft 245 about its longitudinal axis A. m The rotational position of the spindle 245 is monitored by the linear motion sensor 260 along its longitudinal axis A. m Translation. In an alternative embodiment, the rotational position or translation of the spindle can be monitored using any desired device. For example, the rotational position or translation of the spindle can be monitored using one or more magnetic position sensors. In an alternative embodiment, a rotary motion sensor or linear motion sensor can be omitted.

[0034] When the main shaft 245 rotates around its longitudinal axis A m During rotation, the ear-shaped portion 250 moves to a position engaging with one of a plurality of shift levers 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d (lug, engagement portion), which are mounted on a corresponding one of the shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d. The main shaft 245 moves along its longitudinal axis A. m Translation also causes translation of the ear-shaped portion 250. This movement of the ear-shaped portion 250 is transmitted via one of the corresponding shift blocks 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d to one of the shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, thereby causing the shift shaft to move along its corresponding longitudinal axis A. s1 A s2 A s3 A s4 Translation. The shift shaft 230a includes a stabilizer 275 mounted thereon, which engages with the main shaft 245. The stabilizer 275 prevents the shift shaft 230a from rotating, thus limiting the shift shaft 230a to translational movement.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, shift blocks 240b and 240c are configured to be attached to arms of shift shafts 230b and 230c, respectively, and shift blocks 240a and 240d are configured to be recesses formed in shift shafts 230a and 230d, respectively. In alternative embodiments, any one or more shift blocks may be configured to be attached to arms of the respective shift shafts or to be recesses formed in the respective shift shafts. In other alternative embodiments, translation of the spindle may be transferred to a shift shaft using any desired means. In still other alternative embodiments, one or more shift shafts may include a stabilizer, or the stabilizer may be omitted.

[0036] The first actuator 265 performs a gear selection action, and the second actuator 270 performs a gear shifting action. Each of the first actuator 265 and the second actuator 270 includes ball screw mechanisms 280a and 280b and electric motors 285a and 285b. Each ball screw mechanism 280a and 280b includes ball nuts 290a and 290b mounted on corresponding screw shafts 295a and 295b. Screw shafts 295a and 295b are attached to a corresponding electric motor 285a and 285b. Electric motors 285a and 285b rotate the corresponding screw shafts 295a and 295b, thereby causing linear movement of the associated ball nuts 290a and 290b. In alternative embodiments, the first or second actuator can have any desired arrangement. For example, the first or second actuator may include a gear mechanism instead of a ball screw mechanism.

[0037] The first actuator 265 includes a selector lever 300 attached to the spindle 245. The selector lever 300 engages with a ball nut 290a and converts the linear motion of the ball nut 290a into motion of the spindle 245 about its longitudinal axis A. m Rotational motion. The longitudinal axis A of the lead screw shaft 295a of the first actuator 265. a1 With the longitudinal axis A of the main spindle 245 m It extends substantially vertically. In an alternative embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the lead screw of the first actuator can extend at any desired angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the main shaft.

[0038] The second actuator 270 includes a shift lever 305 and a shift selector 310. The shift lever 305 is attached to a ball nut 290b and engages with the shift selector 310 attached to the spindle 245. Linear movement of the ball nut 290b is transmitted to the spindle 245 via the shift lever 305 and shift selector 310 assembly, thereby causing the spindle 245 to move along its longitudinal axis A. m Translation. The longitudinal axis A of the lead screw 295b of the second actuator 270. a2 With the longitudinal axis A of the main spindle 245 m Extending substantially parallel. In an alternative embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the lead screw of the first actuator can extend at any desired angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the main shaft.

[0039] like Figure 6 As shown, the control system electronic control unit 315 communicates with the transmission electronic control unit 1600 of the automatic manual transmission 1100, the electric motor 285a of the first actuator 265, the electric motor 285b of the second actuator 270, the rotary motion sensor 255, and the linear motion sensor 260. The control system electronic control unit 315 controls the first actuator 260 and the second actuator 270 to provide the required gear ratio, as further explained below.

[0040] In an alternative implementation, the control system electronic control unit may be integrated with the electronic control unit of the automatic / manual transmission. In other alternative implementations, the control system electronic control unit may communicate with or control more or fewer components of the automatic / manual transmission.

[0041] During use, the operator signals the desired gear via the transmission user interface 1605. This input is sensed by the transmission electronic control unit 1600, which then sends a signal to the control system electronic control unit 315.

[0042] The electronic control unit 315 of the control system first performs the gear selection action, and then initiates gear shifting. The gear selection action is performed by transmitting power to the electric motor 285a of the first actuator 265, thereby causing the main shaft 245 to rotate around its longitudinal axis A via the lead screw 295a, ball nut 290a, and gear selector lever 300 connected as described above. m Rotation. The electric motor 285a of the first actuator 265 continues to rotate until the ear-shaped portion 250 is brought to the position where a paddle 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d on the corresponding shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d associated with the gear selected by the operator is engaged. The gear selection action is then completed, and power to the electric motor 285a is cut off, causing the main shaft 245 to stop about its longitudinal axis A. m Further rotation. The rotational position of the spindle 245 can be monitored or verified by the rotational motion sensor 255 to ensure that the ear-shaped portion 250 has engaged the desired toggle among the toggle blocks 240a, 240b, 240c, and 240d. For illustrative purposes, it is assumed that the ear-shaped portion 250 has engaged with the first toggle block 240a.

[0043] After the gear selection action is completed, the electronic control unit 315 of the control system performs the gear shifting action by transmitting power to the electric motor 285b of the second actuator 270, thereby causing the main shaft 245 to move along its longitudinal axis A via the lead screw 295b, ball nut 290b, shift lever 305 and shift selector 310 connected as described above. m Translation. As mentioned above, the main axis 245 moves along its longitudinal axis A. m Translation causes the pawl clutch associated with the gear selected by the operator to move via the ear-shaped portion 250, one of the shift blocks 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d, and the associated shift shafts 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d. For illustrative purposes, it is assumed that the ear-shaped portion 250 is engaged with the first shift block 240a. Therefore, the aforementioned process will cause the first shift shaft 230a to move along its longitudinal axis A. s1 Translation is performed. However, it should be understood that if the ear-shaped portion 250 moves accordingly to a position engaging with the second shifter 240b, the third shifter 240c, or the fourth shifter 240d during the gear selection operation, the aforementioned process will cause the second or third shifter shafts 230b, 230c, and 230d to make similar movements.

[0044] The electric motor 285b of the second actuator 270 continues to rotate until the gear engagement clutch and the gear corresponding to the gear selected by the operator engage, thereby fixing the desired gear to the output shaft for rotation therewith. Then, the gear shift is completed, and power to the electric motor 285b is cut off, causing the main shaft 245 to stop along its longitudinal axis A. m Further translation. The automatic / manual transmission 100 is now in the gear selected by the operator. The linear position of the spindle 245 can be monitored or verified by the linear motion sensor 260 to assess whether the gear engagement clutch has engaged the required gear.

[0045] The foregoing description provides a general overview of the gear shifting process, which can be either upshifting or downshifting. In the case of upshifting, prior to the shift, the transmission electronic control unit 1600 actuates the pneumatic linear clutch actuator 1500, disengaging the main clutch 1300 from the power source. The electronic control unit 1600 also commands the electric valve 1405 to actuate the inertial brake 1400 to slow the rotation of the countershaft 1120, thereby facilitating the shift. Speed ​​sensors 1410 and 1415 monitor the input and output rotational speeds to further facilitate the upshifting process. In the case of downshifting, the inertial brake 1400 is not used; instead, the transmission electronic control unit 1600 controls the speed of the power source to facilitate the shift.

[0046] The automatic manual transmission 1100 and control system 200 disclosed herein offer several advantages over known solutions. For example, using an inertial brake 1400 instead of a synchronizer reduces cost and improves durability. As another example, using a linear pneumatic actuator 1500 instead of a linear hydraulic actuator further reduces cost. As yet another embodiment, providing two power take-off unit mounting points 1705, 1710 on opposite sides of the housing 1140 provides greater flexibility than an automatic manual transmission with a power take-off unit mounting point on only one side. As yet another example, the control system 200 reduces complexity, cost, and size compared to known control systems. Therefore, the automatic manual transmission 1100 disclosed herein advantageously reduces cost, complexity, and size while improving durability and flexibility compared to known automatic manual transmissions. Furthermore, the control system 200 disclosed herein advantageously reduces complexity, cost, and size compared to known control systems for automatic manual transmissions.

[0047] Regarding the control system 200, the scheme disclosed herein reduces the height of the XY shifter 210 by approximately 32% compared to known electrically actuated XY shifters and by approximately 43% compared to known hydraulically actuated XY shifters. According to one example, the XY shifter 210 has a height of 63 mm, while the equivalent known electrically actuated XY shifter has a height of 93 mm, and the equivalent known hydraulically actuated XY shifter has a height of 111 mm.

[0048] Without excluding other possible implementations, certain exemplary implementations are summarized in the following exemplary clauses.

[0049] Exemplary Clause 1: A control system for an automatic-manual transmission, the control system comprising: Base housing, the base housing including a plurality of shift shafts configured to move a corresponding one of a plurality of gear engagement clutches of an automatic / manual transmission, each of the plurality of shift shafts extending along a corresponding longitudinal axis; and An XY shifter, comprising: Main shaft, extending along the longitudinal axis of the main shaft; The first actuator is configured to rotate the spindle about its longitudinal axis; and The second actuator is configured to translate the spindle along the longitudinal axis of the spindle. The rotation of the main shaft around its longitudinal axis causes the main shaft to engage with one of the multiple shift shafts, and the translation of the main shaft along its longitudinal axis causes the main shaft to drive the engaged shift shaft to move along its corresponding longitudinal axis.

[0050] Exemplary Clause 2: A control system according to Exemplary Clause 1, wherein the first actuator includes a first ball nut connected to a spindle and a first lead screw shaft connected to a first electric motor.

[0051] Exemplary Clause 3: A control system according to Exemplary Clause 1 or 2, wherein a first lead screw shaft extends along the longitudinal axis of the lead screw shaft, and wherein the longitudinal axis of the lead screw shaft is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main shaft.

[0052] Exemplary Clause 4: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first actuator includes a selector lever attached to the spindle and engaging with a first ball nut, the selector lever converting the linear motion of the first ball nut into rotational motion that causes the spindle to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0053] Exemplary Clause 5: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the second actuator includes a second ball nut connected to a main shaft and a second lead screw shaft connected to a second electric motor.

[0054] Exemplary Clause 6: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the second actuator includes a shift lever attached to the second ball nut and a shift selector attached to the spindle, the shift lever and the shift selector transmitting linear motion of the second ball nut to the spindle to cause the spindle to translate along the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0055] Exemplary Clause 7: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 6, wherein a paddle is mounted on each of a plurality of shift shafts and an ear-shaped portion is mounted on a main shaft, wherein rotation of the main shaft about its longitudinal axis causes the ear-shaped portion to engage with one of the plurality of paddles.

[0056] Exemplary Clause 8: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 7, wherein a shift fork is mounted on each of a plurality of shift shafts, each of the plurality of shift forks is configured to engage a corresponding one of a plurality of gear-engaging clutches, and wherein translation of the main shaft along the longitudinal axis of the main shaft causes one of the plurality of shift forks to drive a corresponding one of the plurality of gear-engaging clutches to move.

[0057] Exemplary Clause 9: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 8 further includes a rotary motion sensor configured to monitor the rotation of the spindle about the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0058] Exemplary Clause 10: A control system according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 1 to 9 further includes a linear motion sensor configured to monitor translation of the spindle along the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0059] Exemplary Clause 11: A method for shifting gears in an automatic manual transmission having a plurality of gear-engaged clutches, the method comprising the steps of: A base box and an XY shifter are provided. The base box includes a plurality of shift shafts configured to cause a corresponding one of a plurality of gears to move in an engagement clutch. Each of the plurality of shift shafts extends along a longitudinal axis of the corresponding shift shaft. The XY shifter includes a main shaft, a first actuator, and a second actuator. Activate the first actuator to rotate the spindle about its longitudinal axis, thereby engaging the spindle with one of a plurality of shift shafts; and The second actuator is activated to cause the main shaft to translate along its longitudinal axis, thereby causing the main shaft to drive the engaged shift shaft among the multiple shift shafts to translate along its corresponding longitudinal axis.

[0060] Exemplary Clause 12: The method according to Exemplary Clause 11, wherein the first actuator includes a first ball nut connected to a spindle and a first lead screw shaft connected to a first electric motor.

[0061] Exemplary Clause 13: The method according to Exemplary Clause 11 or 12, wherein the first actuator includes a selector lever attached to the spindle and engaging with a first ball nut, the selector lever converting the linear motion of the first ball nut into rotational motion that causes the spindle to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0062] Exemplary Clause 14: The method according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 11 to 13, wherein the second actuator includes a second ball nut connected to the main shaft and a second lead screw shaft connected to the second electric motor.

[0063] Exemplary Clause 15: The method according to any one of Exemplary Clauses 11 to 14, wherein the second actuator includes a shift lever attached to the second ball nut and a shift selector attached to the spindle, the shift lever and the shift selector transmitting linear motion of the second ball nut to the spindle to cause the spindle to translate along the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0064] The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” in this specification or claims is intended to be inclusive, in a manner similar to the term “containing,” as interpreted when the term is used as a transition word in a claim. Furthermore, the use of the term “or” (e.g., A or B) is intended to mean “A, or B, or both.” The term “A, or B, or both” will be used when the applicant intends to mean “only A, or only B, not both.” Therefore, the use of the term “or” herein is inclusive, not exclusive. See Bryan A. Garner, *Dictionary of Modern Legal Terminology*, p. 624 (2nd edition, 1995). Furthermore, the use of the terms “in…” or “to…” in this specification or claims is intended to also mean “on…” or “to…”. Furthermore, the use of the term “connected” in this specification or claims is intended to mean not only “directly connected to” but also “indirectly connected to,” such as a connection via another component or components.

[0065] While this disclosure has been described through its embodiments, and while these embodiments have been described in detail, the applicant does not intend to limit or restrict the scope of the appended claims in any way to these details. Other advantages and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this disclosure is not, in its broader aspects, limited to the specific details shown and described, representative devices and methods, and illustrative examples. For example, the control system disclosed herein can be used in any desired automatic / manual transmission design other than the automatic / manual transmission design described herein. As another example, an automatic / manual transmission can use any desired control system other than the control system described herein. Therefore, deviations from these details may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's overall inventive concept.

Claims

1. A control system for an automatic-manual transmission, the control system comprising: A base housing, the base housing including a plurality of shift shafts, the plurality of shift shafts being configured to move a corresponding one of a plurality of gear engagement clutches of the automatic manual transmission, each of the plurality of shift shafts extending along a corresponding shift shaft longitudinal axis. as well as XY shifter, the XY shifter comprising: Main shaft, extending along the longitudinal axis of the main shaft. The first actuator is configured to rotate the spindle about the longitudinal axis of the spindle, and A second actuator is configured to translate the spindle along the longitudinal axis of the spindle. Wherein, rotation of the main shaft about the longitudinal axis of the main shaft causes the main shaft to engage with one of the plurality of shift shafts, and wherein translation of the main shaft along the longitudinal axis of the main shaft causes the main shaft to drive the engaged shift shaft among the plurality of shift shafts to move along the corresponding longitudinal axis of the shift shaft.

2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein, The first actuator includes a first ball nut connected to the main shaft and a first lead screw shaft connected to the first electric motor.

3. The control system according to claim 2, wherein, The first lead screw shaft extends along the longitudinal axis of the lead screw shaft, and wherein the longitudinal axis of the lead screw shaft is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main shaft.

4. The control system according to claim 2, wherein, The first actuator includes a selector lever attached to the spindle and engaging with the first ball nut, the selector lever converting the linear motion of the first ball nut into rotational motion that causes the spindle to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

5. The control system according to claim 1, wherein, The second actuator includes a second ball nut connected to the main shaft and a second lead screw shaft connected to the second electric motor.

6. The control system according to claim 5, wherein, The second actuator includes a shift lever attached to the second ball nut and a shift selector attached to the spindle, the shift lever and the shift selector transmitting linear motion of the second ball nut to the spindle to cause the spindle to translate along the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

7. The control system according to claim 1, wherein, A paddle is mounted on each of the plurality of shift shafts, and an ear-shaped portion is mounted on the main shaft, wherein rotation of the main shaft about its longitudinal axis causes the ear-shaped portion to engage with one of the plurality of paddles.

8. The control system according to claim 1, wherein, A shift fork is mounted on each of the plurality of shift shafts, each of the plurality of shift forks being configured to engage a corresponding one of the plurality of gear engagement clutches, wherein translation of the main shaft along the longitudinal axis of the main shaft causes one of the plurality of shift forks to drive a corresponding one of the plurality of gear engagement clutches to move.

9. The control system of claim 1 further includes a rotary motion sensor configured to monitor the rotation of the spindle about the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

10. The control system of claim 1 further includes a linear motion sensor configured to monitor translation of the spindle along the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

11. A method for shifting gears in an automatic manual transmission having multiple gear-engaging clutches, the method comprising the steps of: A base housing and an XY shifter are provided. The base housing includes a plurality of shift shafts configured to move a corresponding one of a plurality of gear engagement clutches. Each of the plurality of shift shafts extends along a corresponding longitudinal axis of the shift shaft. The XY shifter includes a main shaft, a first actuator, and a second actuator. The first actuator is activated to rotate the main shaft about its longitudinal axis, thereby engaging the main shaft with one of the plurality of shift shafts. as well as The second actuator is activated to cause the main shaft to translate along its longitudinal axis, thereby causing the main shaft to drive one of the engaged shift shafts to translate along its respective longitudinal axis.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The first actuator includes a first ball nut connected to the main shaft and a first lead screw shaft connected to the first electric motor.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The first actuator includes a selector lever attached to the spindle and engaging with the first ball nut, the selector lever converting the linear motion of the first ball nut into rotational motion that causes the spindle to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

14. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The second actuator includes a second ball nut connected to the main shaft and a second lead screw shaft connected to the second electric motor.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The second actuator includes a shift lever attached to the second ball nut and a shift selector attached to the spindle, the shift lever and the shift selector transmitting linear motion of the second ball nut to the spindle to cause the spindle to translate along the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

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