Steering Column Switch Magnetic Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steering column switches lack intuitive visual and haptic feedback, making it difficult for users to identify the switching state from the shift lever position, particularly in touch-actuated mechanisms where the shift lever does not return to its stable position automatically after actuation, leading to user irritation.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic device comprising a contact piece with permanent magnets and an electromagnet is integrated into the shift lever mechanism, allowing the shift lever to be held or released monostably on a shift gate, with a magnetic sensor detecting the magnetic field strength to determine the shift lever position contactlessly, eliminating the need for conventional switching contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical detent mechanism is used to hold the shift lever in stable positions, then the shift lever position is clearly indicated, but the mechanism complexity increases and wear occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical detent mechanism with an electromagnetic field-based positioning system. The shift lever is guided monostably on a shift gate without mechanical detents, and electromagnetic forces (electromagnet and permanent magnets) are used to hold or release the shift lever in desired positions, eliminating mechanical wear and reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the control system and the shift lever. Instead of direct mechanical contact for positioning, magnetic fields serve as the mediating force to achieve contactless positioning and state detection, reducing mechanical wear while maintaining reliability.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If conventional switching contacts are used to detect shift lever position, then the switching state can be detected, but wear and mechanical failure occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical switching contacts with a contactless magnetic field detection system. Magnetic sensors detect the position of the shift lever by sensing changes in magnetic fields generated by permanent magnets attached to the shift lever, eliminating mechanical contact and associated wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses magnetic fields as an intermediary for information transmission between the shift lever and the detection system. Magnetic sensors detect the shift lever position through the magnetic field without physical contact, providing reliable wear-free detection.
3Reliability
If the shift lever is held in deflected position by electromagnets with closed contact pairs, then the switching state is maintained, but the mechanism complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic or momentary activation of electromagnets rather than continuous operation. The electromagnet is activated only when needed to release the shift lever from its stable position, and the permanent magnets provide passive holding force otherwise, reducing energy consumption and simplifying the control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by using permanent magnets for the default holding function and electromagnets only for releasing or changing state. This reversal reduces the duty cycle of active electromagnets, lowering energy consumption and simplifying the control system.
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 solution provides clear visual and haptic feedback of the shift lever position, simplifying the mechanism and reducing wear, as the shift lever automatically returns to its stable position upon electrical signal, enhancing user experience and mechanical simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet is provided, which, when switched on, generates a counter-field to the magnetic field of the permanent magnet
Implementation Method 2
at least one permanent magnet is arranged, which is brought together with a magnetic retaining element by pivoting the shift lever into a shift position unstable on the shift gate
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering column switch for a motor vehicle, comprising a switching lever, which can be operated by means of pivoting in relation to a switching lever housing and which has a locking pin guided on a switching gate, wherein the locking pin assumes a stable position on the switching gate when the switching lever is not operated and can be guided into at least one unstable switching position by operation of the switching lever, wherein the switching gate guides the locking pin back into the stable switching position from any unstable switching position after the operation of the switching lever ceases, wherein a switching piece can be pivoted together with the switching lever in relation to the switching lever housing, on which switching piece at least one permanent magnet is arranged, which is brought together with a magnetic retaining element by pivoting of the switching lever into an unstable switching position, and wherein an electromagnet is provided, which produces a counter field to the magnetic field of the permanent magnet in the switched-on state.