Manual Transmission Shift Element Adjustable Screw Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shift elements in manual transmissions face challenges in achieving precise positioning due to manufacturing tolerances, leading to unreliable and uncomfortable shifting processes, and current adjustment methods, such as post-milling, are costly and limited in adjustability.

Innovation Solution

A shift element design featuring a holder with intersecting flat contact surfaces for the shift fork and mouthpiece, utilizing screw connections with radial play to allow adjustable positioning, enabling compensation of tolerances in both shifting and selection directions through friction fit fixation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If post-milling is used to achieve precise positioning, then manufacturing precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from a fixed, rigid connection between shift fork and shift mouthpiece to a dynamic, adjustable connection using screws with play. This allows the positioning to be optimized after assembly, achieving high precision without expensive post-milling operations. The screws enable fine-tuning of the relative positions while maintaining structural integrity during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a fixed connection is used between shift fork and shift mouthpiece, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection structureVSAvoidpositioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The connection structure is made dynamically adjustable through screw connections with intentional play, allowing the shift mouthpiece to be positioned precisely relative to the shift fork. This simple yet effective mechanism enables precision adjustment without complex assembly procedures or specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If adjustment options are limited to one direction, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment mechanismVSAvoidadjustment range
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces adjustment capabilities in multiple directions by positioning screws at different locations and orientations on the shift fork and shift mouthpiece. This enables compensation for tolerances in both the shifting direction and the selection direction, providing comprehensive adjustability without requiring complex multi-axial adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 allows for comprehensive adjustability and precise positioning of the shift elements, reducing manufacturing costs and improving shifting comfort by compensating for manufacturing tolerances and errors.

Implementation Method 1

the respective screw connections allow sensitive adjustment. Through the screws, the parts are fixed relative to one another by tightening the screws with a friction fit.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction fit: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2507536B1Shifting element for a manual transmission
Publication Date: 2013.09.11 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • EP2507536B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2507536B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2507536B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a shifting element (1) for a manual transmission comprising a shifting fork (2) and a shifting jaw (3) which are produced as separate parts. In order to achieve extensive adjustability of the element in a simple and cost-effective manner, according to the invention the shifting element (1) has a holder (4) to which the shifting fork (2) and the shifting jaw (3) are fastened at locations (5, 6) which are spaced apart, wherein the fastening is implemented by one screw connection (7, 8) each.