Zero-Turn Control Lever RTN Module With CAN Bus Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid and electric vehicles with zero turn drive systems lack a reliable return to neutral (RTN) mechanism, which is essential for efficient control and performance, especially when using electric actuators or in scenarios where traditional hydrostatic transmission setups are not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A speed control assembly incorporating an RTN module linked to each operator control lever, utilizing an adjustable linkage and a position sensor module to provide a return to neutral force, ensuring smooth operation and improved control, even in vehicles with electric transaxles or hydrostatic transaxles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional hydrostatic transmission with RTN assembly is used, then return to neutral control is reliable, but the system is not compatible with hybrid or electric vehicles using electric actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical RTN assembly used with hydrostatic transmissions with an electronic control system that uses electric actuators and a programmable control unit. This substitution enables compatibility with hybrid and electric vehicles while maintaining the return to neutral function through electronic rather than mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The control assembly is designed to work with multiple types of drive systems including hydrostatic transmissions, electric transaxles, and hybrid powertrains. The programmable nature of the control system allows it to adapt to different vehicle configurations and provide universal RTN functionality across various vehicle types.
2Loss of energy
If electric actuators are used in zero turn drive systems, then vehicle efficiency is improved, but a reliable return to neutral mechanism becomes difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates position sensors that provide feedback on the actual position of control levers and actuator positions. The control unit continuously monitors this feedback and automatically commands the electric actuators to return to neutral positions, ensuring reliable RTN control while maintaining the energy efficiency benefits of electric actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically manages the return to neutral function without requiring additional mechanical components or manual intervention. The programmable control unit independently monitors system state and executes RTN commands, allowing the electric actuator system to self-regulate and maintain reliability without the complex mechanical RTN assemblies of traditional hydrostatic systems.
3Ease of operation
If a programmable control system with CAN Bus is implemented, then operator control and performance are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a CAN Bus communication network as an intermediary between various control components and the central control unit. This standardized communication protocol simplifies the integration of multiple sensors and actuators, allowing complex functions to be coordinated through a common communication framework rather than requiring complex point-to-point wiring and control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control assembly having a control lever for controlling output of a traction drive. An operator control mechanism of the control assembly has an arm pivotable about a first pivot axis between a neutral position and a range of both forward and reverse positions. When in the neutral position, the arm can pivot about a second pivot axis between an operative and stopped position, and a switch is engaged when the arm is in the stopped position. A linkage connects the operator control mechanism to a return to neutral (RTN) module that provides a return force to the arm when it is pivoted away from the neutral position. The RTN module includes a shaft pivotable about a third pivot axis parallel to the first pivot axis and placing a magnet proximate to a magnetic field sensor chip mounted on a circuit board comprising CAN Bus and switch terminals.