Gearbox Control Lever Anti-Locking Pawl Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing gearbox control device experiences unwanted locking of the control lever in the neutral position due to the delayed deactivation of the solenoid actuator, causing unexpected and unwanted locking issues when transitioning from the parking position to other positions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an anti-locking pawl on the transmission member that engages and prevents the locking member from locking the control lever in the neutral position when the solenoid actuator remains active during the transition from the parking position to the neutral position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the solenoid actuator is activated to release the control lever from the parking position, then the control lever can be moved away from the parking position, but the delayed deactivation of the solenoid actuator causes unwanted locking of the control lever in the neutral position
Solution Approach 1:
An anti-locking pawl is introduced as an intermediary component between the locking member and the transmission member. This pawl temporarily blocks the locking action during the transition phase when the solenoid actuator is still active, preventing the harmful unwanted locking while allowing the control lever to move freely. The pawl acts as a mediator that distinguishes between intentional parking locking and transitional movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-locking pawl is positioned in advance to prevent the locking member from engaging with the transmission member during the transition period. By preparing this protective mechanism before the unwanted locking can occur, the system proactively prevents the problem rather than reacting to it after the fact.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the solenoid actuator remains active during transition, then the control lever can be moved from parking position, but the locking member may erroneously lock the control lever in neutral position
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the potentially harmful delayed deactivation of the solenoid actuator into a beneficial condition. The extended active period of the solenoid, which originally caused unwanted locking, is now accommodated by the anti-locking pawl mechanism that uses this time period to its advantage - the pawl remains engaged during the transition and disengages only when the control lever reaches its final position, turning the harmful delay into a useful transition window.
3Device complexity
If a simple solenoid actuator is used for locking control, then the device structure remains simple, but it cannot prevent unwanted locking during position transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking control function is segmented into two independent components: the solenoid actuator for primary locking control and the anti-locking pawl for transitional protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the solenoid maintains its simple structure while the pawl adds the necessary reliability during position transitions without requiring complex integration.
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
Prevents unwanted locking of the control lever in the neutral position by ensuring the anti-locking pawl is engaged, thereby maintaining control lever mobility and avoiding unexpected lockings during transitions.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid actuator, for rotating said locking member in a second oscillation direction, to move it away from said operating position in which it locks the control lever in the parking position (P)
Implementation Method 2
said locking member being elastically recalled in a first oscillation direction, towards an operating position in which a first portion thereof interferes with said supporting body of the control lever
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling a gearbox includes a transmission member that transmits movement of a control lever to a control cable. A locking member, having a first and second portions for locking the lever in respective park and neutral positions, is mounted in a device casing. An actuator causes the locking member to rotate when the lever must be unlocked from park position and when the lever must be locked in neutral position. The device includes an anti-locking pawl mounted on the transmission member, having an operative position preventing the second portion from being received in a transmission member seat for locking the lever in the neutral position. If the lever is freed from park position and moved through the neutral position while the actuator is active, the pawl is pushed by the locking member into its operative position, thereby preventing unwanted locking of the lever in the neutral position.