Transmission Range Shifter Cable Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shift-by-wire systems for automatic transmissions require significant modification and investment to implement, and are not universally applicable across different transmission types, while also needing to meet safety standards.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a primary electric actuator to shift the transmission to a selected range and a secondary mechanical actuator to automatically engage Park in case of failure, utilizing sensors and a backup power source to verify correct operation and maintain safety, allowing for installation in various locations without transmission redesign.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If electronic or hydraulic actuation is used to shift the transmission range, then shift-by-wire control is achieved, but significant re-engineering of transmission controls and investment expense is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable assembly as an intermediary mechanical element that connects the shifter switch to the transmission range selector. This cable assembly acts as a mediator that translates electrical switch positions into mechanical transmission range selections, avoiding the need for direct electronic or hydraulic actuation of the transmission while still achieving shift-by-wire control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical floor shifter assemblies with an electrical shifter switch that controls transmission ranges through a cable mechanism. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages in the interior while maintaining mechanical actuation at the transmission, achieving automation without requiring electronic or hydraulic actuation of the transmission itself
2Extent of automation
If a rotary actuator mounted directly to the transmission is used, then shift-by-wire control is achieved, but the system cannot be applied to existing transmissions without redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the shift-by-wire system into two independent segments: an electrical control segment (shifter switch and cable assembly) located in the vehicle interior, and a mechanical actuation segment (cable connected to transmission range selector) at the transmission. This segmentation allows the electrical control portion to be designed independently and applied to various transmission types without requiring transmission redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly design provides universal applicability across different transmission types by using a standardized mechanical interface that can connect to various transmission range selectors. The electrical shifter switch and cable mechanism serve multiple transmission configurations without requiring custom integration for each transmission type
3Area of stationary object
If conventional floor shifters are replaced with a shifter switch, then valuable interior space is freed, but the system lacks mechanical activation capability for certain range selections
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly serves as a mechanical intermediary that transmits actuation force from the shifter switch to the transmission range selector. This allows electrical switch positions to mechanically activate the transmission ranges, providing both space savings and mechanical activation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service functionality where the shifter switch and cable assembly automatically activate the appropriate transmission range without requiring direct mechanical manipulation of a shift lever. The cable mechanism self-actuates the transmission range selector based on switch position, eliminating the need for a traditional shift lever
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
Enables electronic selection of transmission ranges with minimal modification to existing systems, enhances safety by automatically engaging Park when the driver exits the vehicle, and reduces capital expenses by allowing use with a range of transmissions without redesign.
Implementation Method 1
a source of electric power shifts the transmission to the selected range in response to the signal
Implementation Method 2
a source of mechanical energy shifts the transmission to a Park range when the primary state is unable to shift the range
Data Source
AI summary
A system for shifting a transmission range includes a selector producing a signal representing a selected range, and the system has a primary state wherein a source of electric power shifts the transmission to the selected range in response to the signal, and a secondary state wherein a source of mechanical energy shifts the transmission to a Park range when the primary state is unable to shift the range.