BTSI Pin Assembly Decoupling for Deformation Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional steering column assemblies with integrated brake transmission shift interface (BTSI) pins face issues with permanent deformation and misalignment, leading to binding and reduced operational reliability when attempting to move the shift lever out of the 'Park' position, due to the use of unitary pins that can deform under load.

Innovation Solution

A separate and distinct blocking pin and solenoid pin assembly, coupled by an elastomeric coupler, allows for misaligned axes and provides sound deadening, preventing permanent deformation by decoupling the locking and translation functions, and utilizing hardened and non-hardened materials for optimal performance and cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a unitary pin is used for both blocking and solenoid functions, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to permanent deformation and misalignment under load

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepin assembly structureVSAvoidoperational reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pin assembly is segmented into three distinct components: a blocking pin for locking function, a solenoid pin for actuation function, and a coupler to connect them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, preventing the permanent deformation and misalignment issues that occur with unitary pins under load.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If hardened material is used for the blocking pin, then strength is improved to resist deformation, but manufacturing complexity increases due to different material requirements for different pins

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblocking pin strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing process

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Different material properties are applied to different pins based on their specific functional requirements. The blocking pin uses hardened material to resist deformation from shift lever loads, while the solenoid pin uses non-hardened magnetic material for optimal solenoid engagement. This local quality approach optimizes strength where needed while simplifying manufacturing for each component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If separate blocking pin and solenoid pin are used, then reliability is improved by preventing permanent deformation, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveBTSI system reliabilityVSAvoidpin assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The blocking pin, solenoid pin, and coupler are merged into a single integrated pin assembly that functions as one unit. This merging allows the separate pins to work together cooperatively, improving reliability through functional differentiation while presenting a unified structure that simplifies installation and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Object-affected harmful factors

If elastomeric coupler is used to connect pins, then sound deadening is provided and misalignment is accommodated, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesound noiseVSAvoidcoupler engagement precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The coupler is designed with elastomeric material properties that allow it to deform and accommodate misalignment between the blocking pin and solenoid pin axes. This parameter change in material flexibility compensates for manufacturing tolerances while providing sound deadening, reducing the stringency of precision requirements compared to rigid connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution ensures reliable operation by preventing permanent deformation and maintaining alignment, while providing sound deadening and cost-effective material usage, enhancing the BTSI system's reliability and durability.

Implementation Method 1

The coupler provides sound deadening upon engagement of the coupler with the first radial engagement wall

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSound deadening: Acoustic Absorption

Implementation Method 2

The BTSI pin assembly moves between an extended position and a retracted position... when the solenoid is energized

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Data Source

PatentUS10458542B2Brake transmission shift interface pin assembly

Publication Date: 2019.10.29 THYSSENKRUPP PRESTA AG

AI summary

A shifter system assembly for a steering column constructed in accordance to one example of the present disclosure includes a shifter mechanism and a brake transmission shift interface (BTSI). The shifter mechanism receives a shift lever and selectively moves between a “Park” position and an out of “Park” position. The BTSI assembly comprises a BTSI pin assembly and a solenoid coil. The BTSI pin assembly includes a blocking pin, a solenoid pin and a coupler. The solenoid pin is separate and distinct from the blocking pin. The coupler couples the blocking pin and the solenoid pin. The BTSI pin assembly moves between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position the blocking pin inhibits movement of the shifter mechanism out of the “Park” position. In the retracted position, the blocking pin allows movement of the shifter mechanism to the out of “Park” position.