Gear Selector Lever Position Sensing With Linear Magnet Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gearshift lever detection systems in motor vehicles experience imprecise position detection due to the magnet's movement along an arc, leading to weak magnetic field signals, especially at the edge of the movement, resulting in erroneous position determination.
Innovation Solution
The gearshift lever's signal transmitter is configured to move linearly within a guide, allowing precise detection by the signal receiver, and an actuation element converts tilting movements into translatory movements of the signal transmitter, ensuring reliable signal detection. The signal transmitter is integrated into a receptacle or cage for mechanical protection and weight reduction, with stops limiting its movement to prevent mechanical overload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the magnet is moved along an arc when the gearshift lever is pivoted, then the gearshift lever position can be detected, but the magnetic field signal becomes weak especially at the edge area of movement leading to imprecise detection
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting movement of the gearshift lever is segmented into two independent rotational movements around two different axes. The signal transmitter is coupled to move linearly in response to one axis while the signal receiver detects position based on movement around the other axis, dividing the detection task to maintain signal strength and precision throughout the range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
A linear guide acts as an intermediary mechanism between the pivoting gearshift lever and the signal transmitter. The linear guide converts the rotational pivoting movement into linear translatory movement of the signal transmitter, ensuring that the magnetic field signal remains strong and consistent while still reflecting the lever position accurately.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the signal transmitter is allowed to move freely with the gearshift lever, then position detection is possible, but mechanical overload may occur without protection
Solution Approach 1:
Stops are pre-positioned within the linear guide to define the maximum travel limits of the signal transmitter before mechanical overload can occur. These stops are built into the system design from the beginning, preventing excessive movement and protecting the signal transmitter and associated components from damage.
3Reliability
If the signal transmitter is protected within a receptacle, then mechanical protection is provided, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle serving as the signal transmitter housing is designed to simultaneously function as the linear guide for the signal transmitter's movement. This multi-functional design provides mechanical protection while guiding movement, eliminating the need for separate protective structures and reducing overall system complexity.
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
This configuration ensures precise and reliable detection of the gearshift lever position, preventing erroneous shifts and mechanical stress, thereby enhancing shifting operations and extending component lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet that can move in a linearly extendable and linearly retractable fashion along the pivoting axis is installed in a receptacle that is formed by a cage... The magnetic field originating from the magnet moves linearly together with the magnet.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for detecting the position of a gearshift lever for selecting a gear/driving stage or a gear setting of a motor vehicle. The device has a signal transmitter installed on the gearshift lever and a signal receiver installed at a distance from the signal transmitter, wherein it is possible to detect the different positions of the signal transmitter relative to the signal receiver in different gears or gear settings. The invention further relates to a motor vehicle having such a device.