Gearshift Lever Coupling with 2D Slide Guidance for Precise Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for motor vehicle shift levers are complex, have a long tolerance chain, and are costly due to the use of multiple parts, which complicates position detection and movement alignment.
Innovation Solution
A simplified coupling device with a movable sliding element and a guide system allowing two-dimensional movement along orthogonal axes, featuring a tongue and groove connection for reliable guidance and a receptacle with anti-rotation elements to prevent tilting, reducing the number of components and assembly steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple parts and complex structures are used in coupling devices, then reliability and functionality are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into a single integrated coupling device. The coupling device combines the sliding element for position detection, the guide for movement constraint, and the receptacle for shift lever connection into one unified component, eliminating the need for separate parts and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it couples the shift lever to the position detection device, guides two-dimensional movement along orthogonal axes, prevents rotation through anti-rotation elements, and enables precise position detection. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity by consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate components
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple parts and assembly steps are used, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide and coupling elements are merged into a single integrated structure. The guide features guide elements with grooves that directly engage with tongues on the sliding element, eliminating the need for separate guide components and reducing assembly steps while maintaining precise two-dimensional movement guidance capability
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed with modular functional segments that can be manufactured separately and then easily assembled. The sliding element, guide, and receptacle are designed as distinct but compatible components with standardized engagement features (tongue and groove connections), allowing for simplified manufacturing and assembly processes
3Reliability
If a long tolerance chain is used, then functionality is maintained, but manufacturing precision requirements increase and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the coupling, guiding, and detection functions into a single device with fewer intermediate components, the tolerance chain is shortened. The direct engagement between the sliding element and guide elements eliminates multiple interface tolerances that would accumulate in a multi-component system, reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining detection accuracy
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention proposes a coupling device (100) for a gearshift lever (200) of a motor vehicle gearshift lever device. The coupling device (100) comprises a movable slide element (110) with a receptacle (112) for receiving a section of the gearshift lever (200), and a guide (120) for guiding a two-dimensional movement of the slide element (110). The guide (120) has at least one guide element (122) with which the slide element (110) engages. The coupling device (100) is characterized in that the slide element (110) is, in the state of engagement, movable along two mutually different movement axes (A, B) relative to the at least one guide element (122).