Rotary shifting device with motorized knob
US9334949B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 12, 2014 |
| Grant date | May 10, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 12, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/2014
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A shifter apparatus, according to one embodiment, is configured for operating a transmission controller of a vehicle and includes a selection knob that is rotatable between first and second angular positions for selecting an operating mode of the transmission controller. The shifter apparatus also includes a swing arm that is pivotal between an unlocked position spaced from the selection knob and a locked position engaged with the selection knob to prevent rotation thereof. Further, the shifter apparatus includes a motor configured to pivot the swing arm from the locked position to the unlocked position when a disengagement condition is satisfied for selecting a different operating mode. The shifter apparatus may also include a drive gear that is movable to an engaged position between the motor and the selection knob, such that the motor may automatically rotate the selection knob from the first angular position to the second angular position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.