Shifter with load sensors for sensing shift demands
US6612194B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 16, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/2014
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A shifter includes a base and a driver interface module, such as a lever or knob, having a structural member attached to the base and held in a fixed position so that a handle on the structural member can be grasped and loaded by a vehicle operator. At least one load-measuring sensor, such as a strain gage, is attached to the structural member. The sensor outputs an analog signal in proportion to the load applied to the structural member by the vehicle operator. A circuit is connected to the load-measuring sensor for receiving the analog signal. The circuit is configured and programmed to output a transmission-shift control signal when the shift request signal reaches a predetermined minimum load value.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.