Vehicle Shifting Device Separate Drive Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle shifting devices can unintentionally reset the shift lever against a manual operator, leading to startling situations and potential hazards due to the interaction between the electric actuator and the shift lever's holding force.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with separate drive elements for limiting the actuation path and changing the shift lever's position, incorporating a mechanical restoring element and a holding element that can be electrically controlled, ensuring controlled and safe operation by preventing unintended actuation path blocking and allowing manual override.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an electric drive element is used to limit the actuation path of the shift lever, then the actuation path can be precisely controlled, but the shift lever may be unintentionally reset against a manual operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the drive system into two separate drive elements: an electric drive element for the limiting element (to control actuation path) and a mechanical drive element (spring) for the restoring force. This segmentation ensures that the electric motor only limits the path without providing unintended resetting force, while the spring provides controlled restoration only when permitted.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a permitting device as an intermediary between the electric drive element and the shift lever. This permitting device controls when the mechanical restoring force may act, preventing the electric drive from directly resetting the lever against an operator's hand while still allowing normal operation when permitted.
2Device complexity
If a single electric actuator is used for both limiting actuation path and changing shift lever position, then device complexity is reduced, but safety and control are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the positioning function (electric motor limiting the path) from the restoring function (mechanical spring providing controlled return). This functional separation enhances reliability by ensuring that position changes only occur when both drive elements cooperate under controlled conditions, preventing unsafe unintended movements.
3Extent of automation
If the electric drive element continuously acts on the shift lever, then automated position control is achieved, but manual operation becomes difficult and distracting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the permitting device controllable - it can dynamically switch between permitting and blocking states based on operational conditions. This allows the system to adapt: when automated control is needed, the electric drive limits the path; when manual operation is intended, the permitting device allows smooth manual movement without electric interference.
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
Ensures the shift lever remains in a stable position until manually released, preventing unintended shifts and enhancing operator safety by separating the actuation and position change mechanisms, thus reducing the risk of malfunctions and distractions.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical restoring element is preferably provided as a drive element for changing the position of the shift lever, for example a spring
Data Source
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Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electrical switching device for a motor vehicle comprising a gearshift lever and an electrical drive element for limiting the actuation travel of the gearshift lever by means of a limiting element driven by the drive element, wherein a driven change in position of the gearshift lever is provided. This device is characterized in that a drive element different from the electrical drive element of the limiting element is provided for the driven change in position of the gearshift lever.