Shifter Assembly Cam Mechanism for Dual Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle shifters that provide both mechanical and electronic actuation to transmissions lack a robust structure to prevent mechanical components from unexpectedly moving out of position during electronic actuation, potentially damaging the transmission, and are expensive due to reliance on electronic components.
Innovation Solution
A shifter assembly with a housing, pivotable shift lever, arm, and cam, where the arm is separated from the cam and can pivot to provide mechanical actuation, and also prevent the cam from moving unexpectedly, allowing for both mechanical and electronic actuation modes without the need for expensive electronic components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical components are used to provide both mechanical and electronic actuation, then the transmission can be actuated in specific gears mechanically, but the mechanical components may unexpectedly move out of position without driver intent, increasing the possibility of transmission damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed with predetermined geometric profiles that automatically prevent unintended movement. The cam profile is shaped to engage the cable attachment bracket only at specific, intended positions, creating a preliminary constraint that counteracts any unexpected movement before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam acts as an intermediary element between the cable block lever and the cable attachment bracket. It mediates the mechanical actuation by converting the lever's movement into controlled cable tension only when properly positioned, preventing direct and potentially unintended mechanical coupling.
2Extent of automation
If electronic components are used for sole means of shifting, then the shifter can electronically actuate the transmission, but expensive electronic components are required to achieve performance comparable to mechanical shifters
Solution Approach 1:
The shifter assembly merges electronic sensing capabilities with simplified mechanical actuation components. The electronic system detects lever position and controls gear selection, while the mechanical cam and cable provide the actual actuation, combining the advantages of both electronic control and mechanical simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkages with a simplified cam-and-cable mechanism that is controlled electronically. The electronic system substitutes for the need for complex mechanical gear selection mechanisms, using sensors and control units to manage the simpler mechanical actuation components.
3Force
If the cable block lever is fixed to the cable attachment bracket, then the lever can create leverage to force the bracket to pivot, but the structure is not robust and may allow unexpected movement
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical actuation system is segmented into separate components: the cable block lever, the cam, and the cable attachment bracket. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining structural integrity, with the cam serving as an independent element that provides both leverage and positional control.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between components is made dynamic rather than fixed. The cam rotates on a pivot point, allowing it to dynamically engage and disengage from the cable attachment bracket as needed, providing both the necessary mechanical leverage and the ability to prevent unintended movement through controlled engagement.
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 shifter assembly effectively provides reliable mechanical and electronic actuation to the transmission, reducing the risk of damage from unexpected mechanical component movement and minimizing component costs by utilizing a separated arm and cam design.
Implementation Method 1
a cam coupled to the housing and pivotable about a second axis spaced from the first axis between a first position and a second position for moving the control cable to mechanically actuate the transmission
Implementation Method 2
an arm coupled to the housing and pivotable about a first axis concurrently with the shift lever
Implementation Method 3
pivotable about a first axis concurrently with the shift lever in at least the first mode
Data Source
AI summary
A shifter assembly for providing mechanical and electronic actuation to a transmission and a method of operating the same is disclosed. A shift lever is pivotable about a first axis in a first mode for providing mechanical actuation, and a second mode for providing electronic actuation to the transmission. An arm is pivotable about the first axis concurrently with the shift lever in at least the first mode. The arm includes a first and second engagement surface. The shifter assembly includes a cam pivotable about a second axis between a first and second position. The first engagement surface urges the cam to move between the first and second positions as the shift lever pivots in the first mode. The second engagement surface abuts the cam as the shift lever pivots in the second mode such that the arm pivots about the first axis while the cam remains stationary.