Multi-piece Shifter Cable with Nested Automatic Locking Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shift cable systems for vehicle transmissions are difficult to connect and service, lacking ease of assembly and secure connections between core and conduit sections.
Innovation Solution
A multi-piece push-pull shift cable system with mating connectors for core and conduit sections that automatically lock together, allowing for adjustable length and secure connections, featuring a clamp with a retainer to prevent unintended release and a spring-loaded lock for easy serviceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If shift cable systems use multiple pieces for flexibility and adjustability, then adaptability and ease of installation improve, but connection complexity and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The core connector is nested within the conduit connector. When the conduit connectors are mated together, the core connectors are automatically aligned and mated together as well, ensuring secure connections without additional manual steps. This nested arrangement resolves the contradiction by maintaining connection reliability while allowing modular adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs automatic locking mechanisms where the core connectors automatically lock together when the conduit connectors are mated. The lock engages automatically without requiring separate manual operation, ensuring reliable connection while simplifying the assembly process. This self-service feature maintains reliability while supporting multi-piece configurability.
2Device complexity
If shift cable systems use fixed-length single-piece design, then connection simplicity improves, but adaptability and serviceability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The shift cable system is divided into multiple modular sections with standardized connectors. Each cable assembly consists of conduit sections and core sections that can be independently connected and disconnected. This segmentation enables easy serviceability and length adjustment while maintaining simple connector designs through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable system transitions from a fixed single-piece design to a dynamic multi-piece configuration. The connectors are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing the cable length to be adjusted by adding or removing sections. This dynamic capability improves serviceability while keeping individual connector operations simple.
3Ease of operation
If shift cable systems use automatic locking mechanisms, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism for the core connector is merged with the conduit connector assembly. When the conduit connectors are mated together, the core connectors are automatically aligned and locked without requiring separate manual locking actions. This merging reduces the operational steps required while consolidating the locking mechanism within the existing connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock is designed to engage automatically when the connectors are properly mated together. The automatic locking mechanism eliminates the need for separate manual locking operations, improving ease of assembly. The self-service nature of the locking mechanism reduces operational complexity despite the presence of the locking feature.
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
Facilitates easy assembly and secure connections between cable sections, enabling adjustable length and ensuring reliable operation while allowing for service without complex disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a lock preloaded in an unlocked position and autonomously moved to its locked position when the core connectors are mated together
Implementation Method 2
A clamp may be provided to releasably maintain the first and second conduit connectors coupled together
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment there is provided a multiple piece shifter cable system. The cable pieces may each have a core section with a connector and a conduit section with a connector. The core connectors may be coupled together to connect the core sections of the cable pieces and the conduit connectors may be coupled together to connect the conduit sections of the cable pieces. When the conduit connectors are mated together the core connectors may automatically be mated together, and the core connectors may automatically be locked together as well. In at least some implementations, the conduit connectors may permit adjustment of the total length of the conduit during assembly, and a clamp may be provided to maintain the conduit connectors in a desired assembled position.