Multi-Position Locking Unit for Automatic Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking units for automatic transmission parking locks can only fix the piston in one position, limiting their versatility and adaptability to different transmission sizes, while also being compact.
Innovation Solution
The locking unit features multiple spaced-apart locking receptacles and a pawl-like locking element that can engage with these receptacles at different axial positions, allowing the piston to be fixed in various positions through a holding interaction, with the locking element designed to distribute load evenly and avoid material stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a locking unit is designed to fix the piston in one position, then the design remains compact and simple, but the adaptability to different transmission sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is segmented into multiple independent locking elements (at least two locking elements), each capable of engaging with corresponding locking receptacles at different axial positions on the piston. This segmentation allows the same compact locking unit structure to adapt to different transmission sizes by engaging different numbers or combinations of locking elements, without requiring multiple different locking unit designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking positions are provided for different transmission sizes, then adaptability increases, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions for different transmission sizes are merged into a single compact locking unit by providing multiple locking elements within the same housing. The locking unit housing contains at least two locking elements that can simultaneously or selectively engage with locking receptacles at different axial positions, achieving multiple locking positions without increasing the overall unit volume significantly.
3Strength
If a single locking element is used, then the device remains simple, but the load distribution and material stress management are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The single locking element is segmented into multiple locking elements (at least two), each capable of independently engaging with locking receptacles. This segmentation distributes the mechanical load across multiple engagement points, reducing stress on individual elements and improving overall strength and reliability, while maintaining a relatively simple configuration within the same housing.
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 design enables the piston to be securely locked in multiple positions, adapting to different automatic transmission sizes, simplifying production and increasing usability while maintaining a compact form factor.
Implementation Method 1
The locking unit has an electromagnet (4) and at least one latching element (5)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a locking unit, in particular for a parking lock of an automatic transmission, for locking the motion of a piston that can be moved by a drive, in particular a piston to which pressure can be applied, wherein the locking unit has an electromagnet and at least one catch element and the catch element interacts with the armature or armature rod of the electromagnet or with a bolt or bolt ring retained by the armature or armature rod or arranged on the armature or armature rod and the piston has at least two catch receptacles at a distance from each other and the piston can be fixed in different positions of the piston by the stopping interaction of the catch element with the respective catch receptacle. The invention further relates to a transmission equipped with the locking unit.