Modular Park Lock Assembly With Manual Release After Power Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing park lock systems in electric vehicles are unable to manually release the park lock after automatic engagement, especially during conditions like towing, and exhibit interrelated component functionality that limits adaptability and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A modular park lock unit with a sliding assembly, electronic actuation assembly, and manual release mechanism that automatically engages the park lock in case of power loss and allows manual disengagement, using a solenoid for electronic actuation and a cam for manual release, reducing the risk of cascading component degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automatic park lock engagement is implemented in electric vehicles, then safety is improved by preventing unintended vehicle movement during power loss, but manual release capability deteriorates making towing operations impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The park lock system is divided into separate functional modules: an automatic engagement mechanism that activates during power loss, and an independent manual release mechanism that can be operated by the driver. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between automatic safety engagement and manual release capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A manual release mechanism serves as an intermediary between the automatic park lock system and the driver's control inputs. This intermediary allows the driver to override the automatic engagement when necessary for towing operations, while the automatic system remains functional for normal safety operations during power loss.
2Device complexity
If interrelated component functionality is used in park lock systems, then system integration is improved, but adaptability and reliability deteriorate due to cascading component degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The park lock system employs modular components with distinct functions - the electronic actuation assembly, sliding assembly, and manual release mechanism are separate but interoperable modules. This modular architecture reduces interdependence between components, so that degradation or failure of one component does not necessarily cascade to others, improving overall system reliability while maintaining reasonable integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in component configuration and connectivity. The electronic actuation assembly can be independently configured, and the manual release mechanism can be adapted to different vehicle platforms. This flexibility in parameters enables the system to maintain reliability across different operating conditions and component variations without requiring complete system redesign.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electronic actuation assembly is added to enable automatic engagement, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic actuation assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables automatic park lock engagement during power loss, works in conjunction with the manual release mechanism, and can be integrated with existing vehicle electronic control systems. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
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 system enhances customer appeal by providing adaptable and reliable park lock functionality, allowing for safe vehicle movement during power loss while enabling manual release for maneuvers like towing, thus reducing the chance of undesirable vehicle movement.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic actuation assembly may include a solenoid that retracts and decouples a retaining pawl from the sliding assembly when de-energized.
Implementation Method 2
The manual release mechanism may include a cam that induces translation of the sliding assembly into a disengaged position, when actuated.
Data Source
AI summary
A park lock unit and method for operation of said unit are provided. In one example, the park lock unit includes a sliding assembly that engages and disengages a parking pawl from a toothed wheel and an electronic actuation assembly configured to engage the parking pawl with the toothed wheel when electric power provided to the electronic actuation assembly drops below a threshold value. The park lock unit further includes a manual release mechanism configured to disengage the parking pawl from the toothed wheel in response to operator input.