Gearbox Control Rod Locking Mechanism Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional control devices in manual gearboxes require complex locking arrangements with separate spring means, leading to increased manufacturing costs and space usage.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a locking arrangement featuring a resilient leaf spring locking means integrated into the control rod, eliminating the need for separate spring means and simplifying the construction, allowing for a more space-saving and cost-effective design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking arrangement with separate spring means is used, then the locking function is reliable, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means is integrated directly into the control rod as a resilient element with a locking portion, merging the locking function and spring function into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate spring means and reduces the number of parts in the locking arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient locking means serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the locking action through its locking portion, provides the spring force through its resilient nature, and guides the movement through its interaction with the groove. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If a conventional locking arrangement with separate spring means is used, then the locking function is reliable, but the space usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the locking means into the control rod itself, the space required for separate spring means and locking components is eliminated. The locking arrangement now occupies only the space necessary for the resilient element within the control rod's recess.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means is nested within a recess in the control rod, with the resilient element contained within the control rod's structure. This nesting approach minimizes the external volume required for the locking arrangement.
3Reliability
If a conventional locking arrangement with separate spring means is used, then the locking function is reliable, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means is manufactured as an integrated resilient element within the control rod, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly of spring means. This reduces manufacturing steps and assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient locking means is designed to automatically engage and disengage from the groove without requiring external actuation mechanisms. The element itself provides the spring force and locking action, eliminating the need for separate actuation systems.
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 provides a simplified, cost-effective, and space-efficient locking mechanism that maintains the functionality of gear position engagement, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while ensuring accurate gear position control.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient locking means arranged in a recess in the control rod, which locking means has a locking portion which, against the action of a spring force of the locking means, is arranged for movement in said recess in the control rod's radial direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a control device for controlling the engagement of desired gears of a gearbox, which control device (1) comprises a control rod (3 a) with a relating locking arrangement (20). The locking arrangement comprises a locking element (21) provided with one or more grooves or recesses (22a-22c) which each define a predetermined setting position of the control rod. The locking arrangement further comprises a resilient locking means (23) arranged in a recess (24) in the control rod, which locking means has a locking portion (23a) which, against the action of a spring force of the locking means, is arranged for movement in said recess in the control rod's radial direction between a protruded position in which the locking portion engages in one of said grooves/recesses in the locking element and thereby counteracts movement of the control rod relative to the locking element, and a retracted position in which the locking portion does not engage in any of said grooves/recesses in the locking element. The invention also relates to a gearbox comprising such a control device.