Sphere Shift Control Clutch for Manual Shift Lock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic shift systems lack a mechanism to improve safety and visibility by allowing manual override of shift lock and integrating indirect lighting and image transmission, while maintaining efficient automated gear shifting.
Innovation Solution
A sphere type shift control apparatus with a semispherical member having a shifting part and a design part, where the shifting part is exposed for gear shifting and the design part for indirect lighting and image transmission, featuring a clutch assembly that allows motor-powered rotation and manual override, enabling shift lock functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a motor-powered rotation mechanism is implemented for automated shift control, then shifting efficiency and automation level are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical cable-based shift control with an electronic motor-powered rotation system. The motor-driven rotary shaft rotates the sphere member to control gear shifting, substituting mechanical linkage with an electromechanical system that improves shifting efficiency while reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sphere member serves multiple functions: it acts as both the visible shift indicator (design part) and the operational control element (shifting part). This multi-functional design integrates the indicator and controller into a single component, improving productivity while managing device complexity
2Reliability
If shift lock functionality is implemented for safety, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is pre-configured with engagement and disengagement mechanisms that automatically lock the shift position during normal operation. The spring-loaded clutch blocks are positioned to engage the splines automatically, providing shift lock functionality before any potential misoperation can occur, thus improving reliability without significantly impacting ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the motor-powered rotation system and the sphere member. It mediates the power transmission by engaging and disengaging clutch blocks, providing a controlled interface that enables both automated operation and manual override capability
3Reliability
If manual override capability is added for safety release, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is designed with dynamic engagement characteristics where the clutch blocks can automatically engage during motor-powered operation but can be manually disengaged when necessary. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt between automated and manual modes, providing manual override capability while managing device complexity through the inherent flexibility of the clutch mechanism
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
Enhances safety through manual shift lock release and improves visibility and commercial value by alternating exposure of shifting and design parts, while maintaining efficient automated gear shifting.
Implementation Method 1
a clutch spring disposed with both ends supported by the final gear and the second clutch block. When the second clutch block is engaged with the first clutch block by elasticity of the clutch spring, the clutch assembly may enter a connected state in which power can be transmitted
Data Source
AI summary
A sphere type shift control apparatus for an electronic shift system has a sphere member rotated with respect to a housing by power from a motor, and the rotation of the sphere member is restricted by holding torque of the motor, such that it is possible to implement a shift lock. Further, since a user can forcibly manually rotate the sphere member, the function of shift lock release can be implemented.