Wireless Paddle Shifter Retrofit for Automatic Gear Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles lack a practical and cost-effective method for retrofitting paddle shift systems without requiring extensive wiring or hardware modifications.
Innovation Solution
A system integrating steering wheel-mounted paddles with a computing module that uses wireless communication and Unified Diagnostic Services (UDS) protocol to control automatic transmission gears, allowing for easy installation and operation without vehicle modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If paddle shift systems are retrofitted to existing vehicles, then drivers can manually shift gears, but extensive wiring and hardware modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical wiring-based paddle shifter system with a wireless communication system. The paddles communicate with the transmission control module via wireless signals, eliminating the need for extensive wiring harnesses and hardware modifications to the vehicle's existing electrical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computing module that interfaces between the wireless paddles and the transmission control module. This intermediary device receives wireless commands from the paddles, processes them through the UDS protocol, and communicates with the transmission control module, thereby bridging the gap without requiring direct wiring connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If factory-installed paddle shifters are provided, then gear shifting control is available, but the system cannot be added to existing vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic, adaptable system that can be installed in existing vehicles regardless of their original configuration. The wireless architecture allows the system to be added to any vehicle with an automatic transmission without requiring factory integration, making the technology dynamically applicable to a wide range of vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal retrofit system that can be installed in any vehicle with an automatic transmission. The wireless paddles and computing module work together as a universal interface that communicates through the UDS protocol, making the system applicable to multiple vehicle types and manufacturers without vehicle-specific customization.
3Ease of manufacture
If wireless communication is used between paddles and computing module, then installation is simplified, but communication reliability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms in the wireless communication system. The computing module receives wireless commands from the paddles, processes them, and provides feedback through the display to confirm command reception and transmission status. This feedback loop ensures that wireless communication failures can be detected and addressed, maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates error handling and validation logic in the computing module that anticipates and handles potential wireless communication failures. The system validates received commands, checks for communication errors, and has fallback procedures to maintain reliable operation even when wireless signals are interrupted or corrupted.
Data Source
AI summary
A shift system and methodology for use in relation to the automatic transmission of a vehicle is provided. The system includes a paddle shifter arrangement adapted to be operated by a driver to manually and selectively shift the gears of the transmission. The paddle shifter system includes steering wheel-mounted or hand-held paddles to allow the operator to make upshift or downshift requests. The paddles comprise a mechanical switch, a transmitter, and a conventional power source. A computing module capable of interfacing with the vehicle via the Unified Diagnostic Services protocol is provided. A number of components are installed on the module to support device functionality. These components include operating components, flash storage, display driver and communication circuitry. The system includes a wireless communication system that allows the user to link the paddles and the computing module. A display indicates the current vehicle gear and gear requested by the driver.