Steering-Column Gear Shifter for Seamless Auto-Sequential Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gear management devices for vehicles with automatic transmissions are not ergonomic and have complex structures, making it difficult to switch between automatic and sequential gearshift operating modes, and there is a need for a simpler and more ergonomic solution that allows drivers to easily transition between these modes.
Innovation Solution
A gear management device with a lever that translates along a rail for automatic mode and rotates around a distinct axis for sequential mode, featuring a finger ball joint and an electronic unlocking mechanism to ensure secure and ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a conventional gear lever is used in automatic gearshift vehicles, then the structure is simple and operation is familiar, but the space requirement in the passenger compartment increases and positioning flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional console-mounted gear lever to a steering wheel-integrated shifter stalk, moving the control device from the central console area to the steering wheel column. This spatial relocation reduces passenger compartment space requirements while maintaining ergonomic accessibility through the steering wheel's natural position in the driver's reach zone
2Volume of moving object
If a stalk-type shifter is used to reduce space requirements, then the space requirement decreases and positioning flexibility increases, but the risk of accidental actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking mechanism that responds to the rotational position of the shifter stalk. The locking member engages to prevent further rotation when the stalk reaches extreme positions (P, R, N, D, S), thereby preventing accidental actuation while allowing intentional gear changes during normal operation范围内的移动
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates positional feedback through the locking mechanism that detects the shifter's angular position and automatically engages disengagement prevention at specific gear positions. This feedback loop ensures that accidental movements beyond intended gear selections are blocked, enhancing reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If a device is designed to switch between automatic and sequential gearshift modes, then the adaptability increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal shifter stalk that can operate in both automatic and sequential gearshift modes. The same physical component performs multiple functions: it controls automatic gear changes in the conventional manner and, when rotated to a specific position, enables sequential gearshift control. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate control devices for each mode, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability
4Device complexity
If the shifter is mounted freely in translation on a rail, then the structure becomes simpler and more robust, but the precision of position control may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a locking member as an intermediary element that interfaces between the freely translatable shifter stalk and the base. This locking member engages with positioning elements on the rail to secure the shifter at precise locations (P, R, N, D, S positions). The intermediary locking mechanism maintains the simplicity and robustness of the free-translation design while ensuring accurate position control through mechanical engagement at discrete points
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a device (1) for managing the gears of a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle being capable of switching from a sequential gear shift operating mode to an automatic gear shift operating mode; comprising a gear shift lever (10) shaped so as to be able to pivot about its extension axis (Z), such that the selection member (11) can switch from a first position (11a) in which the selection member controls the automatic gear shift operation, to a second position (11b) in which the selection member (11) controls operation in the sequential gear shift mode.