One-Axis Shift Mechanism for Compact Transmission Gear Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shift mechanisms in automobile transmissions require multiple parts to convert rotary motion into sliding motion, increasing the volume and complexity of the transmission.
Innovation Solution
A one-axis shift mechanism that integrates a shift fork slidably coupled to a shift rail, with a sliding pin and protrusion system that allows both rotary and sliding motion on a single axis, utilizing a return spring for efficient movement and gear changing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a conventional shift mechanism with multiple parts is used to convert rotary motion into sliding motion, then the conversion function is achieved, but the volume and complexity of the transmission increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rotary motion and sliding motion functions into a single axis by integrating the shift fork directly with the shift rail. The shift fork includes a sliding protrusion that engages with a sliding pin on the shift rail, allowing both rotational and sliding movements to occur on one axis rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each motion type.
Solution Approach 2:
The shift rail serves multiple functions: it acts as both a rotational element (receiving rotary motion from the shift mechanism) and a sliding guide (guiding the sliding protrusion of the shift fork). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each motion type, thereby reducing overall part count and volume.
2Device complexity
If a conventional shift mechanism with multiple parts is used to convert rotary motion into sliding motion, then the conversion function is achieved, but the overall size of the transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding protrusion is integrated into the shift fork structure, and the sliding pin is integrated into the shift rail structure. These components are nested within each other's functional spaces, with the sliding protrusion fitting into the shift rail's sliding path. This nesting allows multiple functions to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, reducing the overall transmission size.
3Volume of moving object
If both rotary and sliding motions are implemented on one axis, then the number of parts and volume are reduced, but the mechanism requires precise integration of components
Solution Approach 1:
The shift fork includes a specifically designed sliding protrusion with precise geometric features (such as inclined surfaces and engagement faces) that interface with corresponding features on the sliding pin. This localized precision design ensures reliable motion transfer while allowing the rest of the mechanism to maintain simpler, less precise geometries, balancing manufacturing feasibility with functional requirements.
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 configuration simplifies the shift mechanism and reduces the overall size of the transmission by enabling both rotary and sliding motion on a single axis, reducing the number of parts and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring arranged between the shift fork and the second shift gear and wound around the shift rail
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission including a one-axis shift mechanism is provided. The transmission including a one-axis shift mechanism includes a transmission including a shift mechanism in which a shift fork is slidably coupled to a shift rail, and the shift fork includes a sleeve that allows the shift fork to be meshed with a gear portion coupled to an input shaft, the transmission including a motor, a first shift gear which is connected to the motor and moves according to rotation of the motor, a second shift gear arranged at one end of the shift rail and secured to the first shift gear, and a sliding pin arranged at the other end of the shift rail and configured to slide the shift fork by contacting a sliding protrusion arranged around an insertion hole of the shift fork, into which the shift rail is inserted.