Magnetic Vehicle Transmission Actuation for Automatic Return to Park
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle transmission systems require significant space for manual gear shifting, leading to interference with surrounding components and inefficient interior space utilization, and lack a seamless automatic Return to Park (RTP) function without additional parts.
Innovation Solution
A transmission system with a non-contact driving unit using magnetic flux to switch the transmission unit's posture based on preset conditions, incorporating a first stator, rotors, and a control device to manage the switching between gear stages, including a parking and stow position, without the need for separate parts for automatic Return to Park functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual transmission lever is exposed inside the vehicle for gear shifting, then the driver can operate the transmission, but it requires significant space and interferes with surrounding components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the transmission control function from the traditional manual lever and implements it through a dial-type or button-type control mechanism. This extraction allows the transmission control to be integrated into the console box or center fascia area, significantly reducing the space required while maintaining ease of operation. The control unit can be operated by rotational movement or pushing buttons, eliminating the need for a large exposed lever.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the transmission control function with the vehicle's existing interior structure by integrating the dial-type or button-type control into the console box or center fascia. This merging eliminates the need for a separate, space-consuming transmission lever while maintaining full transmission control functionality. The control unit is combined with the interior design rather than being a separate exposed component.
2Extent of automation
If a traditional manual transmission lever is used, then gear stage changes can be made, but additional parts are needed for automatic Return to Park functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional control unit that serves both manual gear selection and automatic Return to Park functions. The dial-type or button-type control can be operated manually by the driver for gear changes, and the same control unit responds to preset conditions (such as collision detection or theft prevention scenarios) to automatically return to the Park position. This universality eliminates the need for separate components for automatic RTP functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission control unit is designed to automatically perform the Return to Park function when preset conditions are satisfied, without requiring additional dedicated components. The control unit monitors vehicle conditions and autonomously executes the gear stage change to Park position, making the system self-sufficient for automated safety functions while reducing overall device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical components are used for transmission control, then gear switching can be achieved, but noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical transmission lever mechanisms with an electronically controlled dial-type or button-type system. The gear stage changes are achieved through electronic signals generated by the control unit rather than direct mechanical linkage. This substitution significantly reduces operational noise while maintaining smooth and precise gear switching functionality. The electronic control system actuates the transmission through controlled mechanisms rather than direct mechanical movement.
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 reduces noise during operation, enhances user experience with improved tactile feedback, and eliminates the need for additional components to implement the automatic Return to Park function, optimizing space and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first stator for generating magnetic flux, a first rotor including a first inner permanent magnet and a second inner permanent magnet axially arranged at a predetermined spacing along a rotation axis, and configured to be rotated by the magnetic flux transferred to the first inner permanent magnet
Implementation Method 2
an outer permanent magnet provided in a number different from that of the second inner permanent magnet, and a second rotor configured to rotate along a magnetic force path between the second inner permanent magnet and the outer permanent magnet at a number of revolutions per unit time that is different from a number of revolutions per unit time of the first rotor
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission for a vehicle includes a transmission unit for receiving a transmission command for a vehicle, a driving unit for generating a driving force for switching a posture of the transmission unit, and a control device for controlling the driving unit to switch the posture of the transmission unit based on whether a preset condition is satisfied. The driving unit includes a first stator for generating magnetic flux, a first rotor having a first inner permanent magnet and a second inner permanent magnet axially arranged at a predetermined spacing along a rotation axis, and configured to be rotated by the magnetic flux transferred to the first inner permanent magnet, an outer permanent magnet, and a second rotor configured to rotate along a magnetic force path between the second inner permanent magnet and the outer permanent magnet.