Shift Lock Assembly Multi-Position Solenoid Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shift lock devices are limited to interlocking only between the transmission shifter in a park position and the brake pedal, failing to provide a broad range of transmission position locking based on various control parameters.

Innovation Solution

A shift lock assembly with a shifter base, pivot member, detent member, and lock lever, where at least one solenoid moves the lock lever between low, middle, and high positions to engage with detent member features, allowing locking in multiple transmission positions in response to control parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional brake-transmission interlock device is used to lock the transmission shifter in park position, then the transmission is locked in park position, but the device cannot lock in a broad range of transmission positions based on various control parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of transmission positions lockingVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock lever is designed to be dynamically positionable with multiple discrete positions (low, middle, high) corresponding to different transmission positions (park, neutral, reverse). The solenoid actuator enables dynamic transition between these positions based on control parameters such as brake pedal depression and transmission speed, allowing the system to adapt to various operating conditions rather than being fixed in a single lock position

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the position parameter of the lock lever based on control parameters including brake pedal position and transmission speed. The control system monitors these parameters and actuates the solenoid to move the lock lever to appropriate positions (low for park, middle for neutral, high for reverse), enabling versatile transmission position locking across multiple states

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If a simple interlock mechanism is used between shifter and brake pedal, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of preventing unintended gear shifts is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety of gear shift preventionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by monitoring control parameters such as brake pedal depression status and transmission speed. The control system continuously receives feedback from these sensors and adjusts the lock lever position accordingly, ensuring that the transmission remains locked in appropriate positions only when safety conditions are met, thereby enhancing reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The lock lever acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the solenoid actuator and the transmission shifter mechanism. It translates solenoid actuation into discrete locking positions and provides a physical barrier that prevents unintended gear shifts, while the control system serves as an intermediary that processes sensor feedback and determines appropriate lock states

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables locking in a range of transmission positions, including park, neutral, and reverse, based on control parameters like speed and brake depression, enhancing safety and control over gear shifts.

Implementation Method 1

At least one solenoid is connected to the lock lever for pivotally moving the lock lever relative to the detent member wherein the at least one solenoid moves the lock lever between low, middle and high positions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Data Source

PatentUS7971501B2Shift lock assembly
Publication Date: 2011.07.05 DUS OPERATING INC
  • US7971501B2 patent drawing
  • US7971501B2 patent drawing
  • US7971501B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A shift lock assembly including a shifter base and a shift lever having a pivot member that is associated with the shifter base. A detent member having an upper portion including engaging features is coupled to the pivot member. A lock lever having opposing sides and a first end pivotally attached to the shifter base and a second end adapted to contact the engaging features of the detent member is also included. At least one solenoid is connected to the lock lever for pivotally moving the lock lever relative to the detent member wherein the at least one solenoid moves the lock lever between low, middle and high positions in response to control parameters.