Quick-Shifter Rod Sensing for Automatic Gear Shift Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for saddle-ride type motorcycles with automatic gearboxes and quick-shifter devices require manual intervention to switch between standard and reverse shift configurations, relying on human operators to adjust the control unit, which is risky and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method implemented by the control unit to determine and autonomously set the operative shift configuration of the gearbox between standard and reverse configurations based on signals from sensors detecting the tension or compression state of the quick-shifter rod and the direction of gear shifting, eliminating the need for human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention is used to switch between standard and reverse shift configurations, then the control unit can be adjusted, but human error and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the shift configuration by monitoring sensor signals from the quick-shifter device and correlating them with gearbox state, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The control unit autonomously detects rod tension/compression states and maps them to standard or reverse configuration based on observed shifting patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors sensor signals from the quick-shifter device during gear shifting operations and uses this feedback to automatically determine the operative shift configuration. The control unit adjusts its interpretation of sensor signals based on the detected configuration, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to the actual mechanical setup.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the drive mechanism configuration is modified mechanically to reverse shifting direction, then upshifting safety is improved, but the control unit requires corresponding adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically detects whether the drive mechanism is in standard or reverse configuration by monitoring the relationship between sensor signals and gearbox state during shifting operations. This self-detection capability eliminates the need for manual control unit adjustment when switching between configurations, reducing control system complexity despite the mechanical modification.
3Productivity
If automatic determination of shift configuration is implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses existing sensor signals from the quick-shifter device and correlates them with gearbox state information to automatically determine the operative shift configuration. This feedback-based approach leverages already-present sensors and control logic, achieving automatic determination without requiring additional hardware complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for determining an operative shift configuration of a drive mechanism (1) of a gearbox (G) of a saddle-ride type vehicle (4). In particular, this method is applied to a drive mechanism (1) comprising a pedal shift lever (12) and a quick-shifter device (5) that connects, directly or indirectly, the lever to the gearbox, where this device includes a rod (10) and first sensor means (SM0, SM1-SM2) that detect the variation of the tension state of said rod (10) following a gear shifting. The method according to the invention includes acquiring a first signal (S1) generated by said first sensor means and determining, based on said first signal, whether the rod is in a traction tension state or in a compression tension state. The method also includes acquiring at least a second signal (S2) generated by second sensor means (SM3) and determining, based on this second signal (S2), the gear engaged following said gear shifting and/or the direction of said gear shifting. Finally, the method includes determining the operative shift configuration of the drive mechanism based on the tension state determined in the step B) and the gear engaged and/or based on the direction of said gear shifting determined in the step D).