Shift Device Return Path Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shift devices face difficulties in facilitating the return of a shift body from a second shift position to a first shift position, particularly in column-type shift devices where the movement paths are complex and require multiple directional changes.
Innovation Solution
A shift device with a movable shift body that utilizes a first movement path for initial positioning and a second movement path for returning from a second shift position to a first shift position, incorporating a return portion to simplify the return process by allowing the shift body to move along a predetermined path, thereby facilitating the transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the shift body is moved along the first movement path in multiple directions to reach the second shift position, then the shift position can be changed flexibly, but the returning process from the second shift position to the first shift position becomes complex and difficult to facilitate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the movement path into two distinct segments: a first movement path for normal shift position changes and a second movement path specifically for returning from the second shift position to the first shift position. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function, making the returning operation simpler and more intuitive.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a return portion that acts as an intermediary mechanism to facilitate the returning process. When the return portion is operated, it guides the shift body along the second movement path back to the first shift position, providing a dedicated and simplified return mechanism separate from the normal shift operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex movement path is used to accommodate multiple directional movements, then various shift positions can be reached, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the movement paths into distinct first and second paths, the invention reduces the overall complexity. Each path has a specific function and can be designed independently, avoiding the need for a single complex path that must accommodate all movement requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing a single complex path that handles all movements, the invention inverts the approach by creating a dedicated second movement path specifically for the return operation. This inversion simplifies the returning process by providing a specialized path rather than relying on the complexity of the first movement path.
Data Source
AI summary
In a shift device, when a switch is operated, a moving portion, a first lock plate, a second lock plate and a third lock plate are moved toward a vehicle front side, and placement of the first lock plate, the second lock plate and the third lock plate at a return path is cancelled. Therefore, if the switch is operated when a lever is placed at other than a “P” position, due to a guide pin being moved along the return path toward an upper side by urging force of a return spring, the guide pin is returned to a vehicle front side end of a first lateral path, and the lever is returned to the “P” position. Due thereto, the lever can easily return to the “P” position from other than the “P” position.