Rotary switch device for automotive transmission control
US4378474A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 22, 1981 |
| Grant date | Mar 29, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 22, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H3/503
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An electrical switch device manually operable, by a rotatable knob, to a plurality of definable positions for selectively effecting operation of an automotive transmission to a desired gear ratio. The knob and a housing, which includes the switch, may be mounted any place in the vehicle cab within convenient reach of the operator. The switch device is connected to an electronic logic system which monitors the condition of the transmission at all times to either energize or deenergize a lock-out solenoid, which controls a latch mechanism. Depending upon the condition of the transmission and, therefore, of the solenoid, a latch mechanism either permits or inhibits operation of the knob. An override mechanism permits the operator to release the latch mechanism to permit operation of the knob and the switch for shifting of the transmission, in an emergency situation, notwithstanding that the latch mechanism is in a locked position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.