Transmission Shift Selector Switch Mechanism Mode Transition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle transmission systems lack a user-friendly method to efficiently switch between the drive and sport modes, leading to confusion and increased time in gear shifting.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilizes a controller and switch mechanisms, such as buttons, to selectively shift the transmission between the drive and sport modes based on the current operating mode, allowing for quick and confident mode switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional lever shift selector is used to switch between drive and sport modes, then the transmission can be shifted between modes, but the shifting process becomes complex and time-consuming due to the need to move the lever along multiple axes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of mode switchingVSAvoidshifting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The shift selector is segmented into multiple independent switch mechanisms (first switch mechanism for P/R/N/D modes, second switch mechanism for D/S modes). This segmentation allows each switching operation to be independent and simplified, eliminating the need for complex multi-axis lever movements and reducing the time required for mode transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a traditional single lever operating in two dimensions (requiring movement along first and second axes) to a multi-dimensional switch mechanism system where each switch handles specific mode transitions. This dimensional reorganization simplifies each individual switching action while maintaining comprehensive mode coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional lever shift selector requiring movement along multiple axes is used, then all operating modes can be accessed, but the user interface becomes confusing and difficult to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode coverageVSAvoiduser friendliness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shift selector is divided into specialized switch mechanisms: a first switch mechanism dedicated to P/R/N/D mode transitions and a second switch mechanism dedicated to D/S mode transitions. This functional segmentation makes the interface more intuitive and easier to operate while maintaining comprehensive mode coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The controller integrates the functionality of multiple switch mechanisms and handles various mode transitions through a unified control system. This multi-functional approach ensures comprehensive mode coverage while presenting a simplified user interface with distinct switches for different mode groups.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9169923B2Methods and systems for shifting a transmission gear
Publication Date: 2015.10.27 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US9169923B2 patent drawing
  • US9169923B2 patent drawing
  • US9169923B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle includes a transmission including a plurality of operating modes, a shift selector including a switch mechanism associated with at least two operating modes of the plurality of operating modes, and a controller operably coupled to the transmission and to the shift selector. The controller is configured to receive a signal associated with the switch mechanism, identify a current operating mode associated with the transmission, and selectively shift the transmission from the current operating mode to one operating mode of the at least two operating modes. The one operating mode is determined based at least in part on the current operating mode.