Transmission Actuator Catch Device for Multi-Position Gearbox
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gearbox actuators for manual transmissions face complexity and high production costs when attempting to achieve precise positioning with a multiplicity of shift positions, particularly as the number of positions increases, due to the need for complex multi-position cylinders.
Innovation Solution
A catch device is integrated into a simple actuating cylinder, allowing for automatic fixation at predetermined positions, including intermediate positions, using a catch device with a locking element and spring force, enabling the creation of additional shift positions without increasing design complexity or shift force, and allowing for easy integration into existing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a multi-position actuating cylinder is used to achieve precise positioning with multiple shift positions, then the positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating cylinder is segmented into two functional parts: a simple double-action cylinder providing two end positions, and a separate catch device providing additional intermediate positions. This segmentation allows the system to achieve multiple positioning points without requiring a complex multi-position cylinder design.
Solution Approach 2:
A catch device is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the simple double-action cylinder and the gear selection system. The catch device includes a locking element that engages with the actuating cylinder at intermediate positions, enabling precise positioning without increasing the complexity of the main actuating cylinder.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-position actuating cylinder is used to provide multiple shift positions, then the number of positions is increased, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a standard double-action cylinder (readily available and cost-effective) and a separate, simpler catch device. This segmentation allows production of the main actuating component through standard manufacturing processes while the catch device can be produced as a separate, less expensive add-on component.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch device is designed as a simpler, more economical component compared to a full multi-position cylinder. By using this less expensive mechanism to achieve additional positioning capability, the overall production cost is reduced while still providing the required number of shift positions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex multi-position cylinder is used to achieve multiple shift positions, then the positioning capability is improved, but the construction space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The functionality is segmented between a compact double-action cylinder and a space-efficient catch device. The catch device is designed to engage within the existing cylinder structure, adding positioning capability without requiring a proportional increase in overall construction space.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch device is integrated within the structure of the actuating cylinder, with the locking element and spring mechanism nested within the existing cylindrical housing. This nesting approach allows multiple positions to be achieved without significantly increasing the external dimensions or construction space required.
4Device complexity
If spring centering is used to provide positioning, then the construction complexity is reduced, but the shift force required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The catch device acts as an intermediary that provides mechanical locking at specific positions, replacing the need for high spring forces. The locking element engages with physical stops or recesses in the cylinder, providing positioning through geometric constraints rather than elastic forces, thereby reducing the required shift force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces spring-based elastic positioning with a mechanical locking mechanism. The catch device uses a locking element that engages with fixed positions on the cylinder, substituting the continuous elastic force of springs with discrete mechanical engagement, which requires less force to achieve and maintain positioning.
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
This solution enables the creation of additional shift positions with low constructional complexity and cost, allowing for the automated operation of gearboxes with multiple gears using a relatively simple actuating cylinder, while maintaining low maintenance and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The catch device can be provided with a locking element, which is under spring force in the direction of the locking recess
Data Source
AI summary
For actuating a manual transmission in an automated manner, an actuator comprises a gate selection actuating cylinder for selecting a shift gate, a gear selection actuating cylinder for engaging a gear in the shift gate, and a catch device configured to releasably fix one of the gate selection actuating cylinder and a component moveable by the gate selection actuating cylinder in at least one predetermined catch position.