Shift-By-Wire Transmission Control With Manual Override Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shift-by-wire transmission systems are not well-suited for all-terrain/utility task vehicles (ATV/UTV) as they fail to function reliably in harsh conditions and require disassembly to change gears, posing challenges in remote locations.
Innovation Solution
A shift-by-wire transmission system that uses an electric motor controlled by a sensor and controller to adjust the shift assembly, with a manual override mechanism for mechanical backup and a hybrid configuration to control gear ranges and direction, including an auto-shift to park during power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If shift-by-wire transmission is used to eliminate mechanical linkage, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates in harsh conditions and remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a manual override mechanism that allows the operator to mechanically disengage the transmission or place it in neutral without disassembly, providing a backup solution before electrical failure becomes critical. This prior cushioning approach ensures the vehicle can be moved even if the electrical shift-by-wire system fails in remote locations.
2Device complexity
If current shift-by-wire design is used, then mechanical linkage is eliminated, but ease of repair deteriorates requiring disassembly to change gears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the gear changing function into two independent pathways: the primary electrical shift-by-wire control path and a secondary manual override path. This segmentation allows the electrical system to handle normal operation while the manual mechanism provides a standalone backup that can be activated without disassembly, improving ease of repair while maintaining low mechanical complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If motor continuously adjusts shift assembly setting, then manufacturing precision is improved, but use of energy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the motor activate only when gear shifting is required, rather than continuously adjusting the shift assembly. The motor operates in discrete cycles: activating to move the shift assembly from one gear position to another, then remaining inactive during steady-state operation. This periodic operation maintains precise gear engagement while minimizing energy consumption compared to continuous adjustment.
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
The system provides reliable gear shifting in harsh conditions, allows for manual override in case of electrical failure, and maintains proper gear engagement without unnecessary motor activity, enhancing operational safety and convenience for ATV/UTV vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A motor is activated to adjust the setting of the shift assembly when the monitoring of the shift assembly indicates that the then current setting of the shift assembly is outside of a course window of a desired gear
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of controlling a shift-by-wire transmission is provided. The method monitors a setting of a shift assembly that sets a select gear from gearing of the transmission. A motor is activated to adjust the setting of the shift assembly when the monitoring of the shift assembly indicates that the then current setting of the shift assembly is outside of a course window of a desired gear. The course adjustment window is centered about a nominal target position for the desired gear while being within an acceptable range of the select gear. The motor is shut off when the monitoring of the setting of the shift assembly indicates the setting is within a fine adjustment window of the desired gear. The fine adjustment window is also centered about the nominal target position for the desired gear. The fine adjustment window is narrower than the course adjustment window.