Transbrake Trigger Mechanism for Consistent Release Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drag race vehicle transmission brake release mechanisms are inconsistent due to muscle usage variability and internal switch actuation issues, leading to variable reaction times and performance.
Innovation Solution
A transmission brake release trigger mechanism with a sear lever and trigger lever system, utilizing strong internal springs and precision machining to ensure consistent and rapid actuation, reducing reaction time by 0.020 seconds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard button switch is used for transbrake release, then the device complexity is low, but the consistency and reaction time are poor due to muscle variability and internal switch actuation issues
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a trigger lever for actuation, a sear lever for mechanical linkage, and an industrial micro switch for electrical signal generation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the trigger and sear levers providing consistent mechanical action and the micro switch providing reliable electrical contact, thereby improving overall consistency while maintaining manageable complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the soft, compressible button mechanism with a rigid mechanical trigger and sear lever system. This mechanical substitution eliminates the variability introduced by muscle pressure and button deformation, providing consistent actuation force and travel distance. The mechanical linkage directly translates trigger pull into switch actuation without the compliance issues of button switches
2Ease of operation
If a button switch requiring 20-25 muscles for actuation is used, then the ease of operation is reduced, but the device complexity remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger lever is designed to pivot about a fixed point, creating a dynamic mechanical advantage system. The sear lever engages with the trigger at an optimal point to maximize force multiplication. This dynamic mechanical linkage reduces the muscle force required for actuation while maintaining positive, consistent control, improving ease of operation without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sear lever acts as an intermediary between the trigger lever and the micro switch actuator. It translates the small motion of the trigger into the larger motion needed to reliably actuate the switch, while also providing mechanical advantage to reduce the force required. This intermediary mechanism improves ease of operation by distributing the mechanical work across multiple components
3Ease of operation
If lighter spring force is used in button switches, then the ease of operation improves, but the consistency deteriorates due to friction and button cap cocking
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the spring force function from the button cap assembly and places it in a dedicated, accessible location within the housing. This allows the spring to be optimized for consistent force application without the constraints of button cap geometry. The spring acts directly on the micro switch actuator through the mechanical linkage, eliminating friction and cocking issues associated with button switches while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical trigger and sear lever system copies the successful principles of rifle triggers, which are renowned for their consistency and precision. By replicating the trigger-sear-spring mechanism used in high-end firearms, the invention achieves similar levels of actuation consistency and reliability while adapting it for automotive transbrake application
4Reliability
If stronger spring force is used to improve consistency, then the reliability improves, but the ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical linkage creates a dynamic force distribution where the spring force is amplified through the lever arms. The trigger lever and sear lever act as force multipliers, allowing a moderate spring force to generate sufficient actuation force on the micro switch. This dynamic mechanical advantage maintains ease of operation while ensuring reliable, consistent switch actuation
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 mechanism provides superior consistency and reduced reaction time, enhancing performance in bracket drag racing and adapting to various racing styles and configurations.
Implementation Method 1
A sear spring is located in a recess in the housing and biases the sear lever
Implementation Method 2
Trigger springs are located in internal recesses and bias the trigger lever
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission brake release trigger and method of operation, designed to enhance consistency and reduce reaction time for bracket drag racing and other competitive motorsports. The system includes a precisely engineered trigger mechanism, incorporating a sear lever, trigger lever, and industrial micro switch assembly. This innovative design achieves an average reduction in leave time of 0.020 seconds and offers improved reaction consistency across various racing scenarios. The invention supports both normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) switch configurations, enabling adaptability for different racing styles and event requirements. Key features include spring-loaded components for reliable engagement, ergonomic trigger action for user convenience, and quick reset capabilities. Multiple embodiments are described, including direct contact switch designs for instant-on green racing. The modular construction ensures compatibility with various vehicle configurations. This inventive trigger mechanism offers superior performance for racers seeking faster and more consistent starts.