Shifter assembly with reduced lash

The subject invention provides for a shifter assembly for selecting one of a plurality of gears of a transmission of a vehicle. The shifter assembly includes a pin engaging a lever and one of a handle and a support and rotatable towards first and second ramps to define a first range of movement between the lever and one of the handle and the support. A first post and a second post extend from the lever. A first bushing is attached to the first post and a second bushing is attached to the second post. A pair of first and second engagement surfaces are disposed on the one of the handle and the support. The first bushing is sandwiched between the pair of first engagement surfaces and the second bushing is sandwiched between the pair of second engagement surfaces to define a second range of movement.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and all advantages of European Patent Application No. 12160748, which was filed on Mar. 22, 2012.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The subject invention generally relates to a shifter assembly for selecting one of a plurality of gears of a transmission of a vehicle.

2. Description of Related Art

There is a desire within the industries utilizing shifter assemblies to restrict the range of movement of a shifter within a desired set of parameters. Many techniques have been used to restrict this range of movement. One solution in the industry is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,569,245 (the '245 patent). Specifically, the '245 patent discloses a shifter having a pivotable shift stick and a lower plate with the shift stick partially disposed within the lower plate. A spherical ball is disposed on the shift stick and a rocking shaft extends through the spherical ball transverse to the shift stick such that the rocking shaft presents first and second ends. Bushings are disposed on the ends of the rocking shaft. The lower plate defines a spherical socket and a channel adjacent to the spherical socket. The bushings on the ends of the rocking shaft are disposed within and slide within the channel, thus there must be a space between the bushings and the channel which could create lash.

Therefore, there remains an opportunity to develop a shifter assembly that reduces lash and more efficiently defines the various ranges of movement of the shifter.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES

The subject invention provides for a shifter assembly for selecting one of a plurality of gears of a transmission of a vehicle. The shifter assembly includes a support and a lever coupled to the support. The lever defines an aperture and an axis extending through the aperture with the lever having a contact surface disposed within said aperture. A first ramp extends angularly from the contact surface and a second ramp extends angularly from the contact surface in an opposite direction from the first ramp. A handle defines an interior. The handle is disposed over at least a portion of the lever. A pin engages the contact surface of the lever and engages one of the handle and the support to partially couple the lever to the one of the handle and the support. The pin is rotatable towards the first and second ramps to define a first range of movement between the lever and one of the handle and the support. A first post and a second post extend from the lever in opposite directions transverse to the axis with each of the first and second posts extending to a distal end. A first bushing is attached to the distal end of the first post and a second bushing is attached to the distal end of the second post. The shifter assembly further includes a pair of first engagement surfaces spaced from each other and a pair of second engagement surfaces spaced from each other. The first and second engagement surfaces are disposed on the one of the handle and the support. The first bushing is sandwiched between the pair of first engagement surfaces and the second bushing is sandwiched between the pair of second engagement surfaces to define a second range of movement and to fully couple the lever to the one of the handle and the support.

Additionally, the subject invention provides for a shifter assembly for selecting one of a plurality of gears of a transmission of a vehicle. The shifter assembly includes a support. A lever is coupled to the support and defines a bore. A handle defines an interior with the handle disposed over at least a portion of the lever. A pin engages one of the handle and the support. The lever further includes a liner mounted within the bore of the lever. The liner defines an aperture and has a contact surface disposed within the aperture. A first ramp extends angularly from the contact surface and a second ramp extends angularly from the contact surface in an opposite direction from the first ramp. The pin engages the contact surface and is rotatable towards the first and second ramps to define a range of movement between the lever and the one of the handle and the support.

Accordingly, the subject invention provides for a shifter assembly that reduces lash between a handle and a support as the handle pivots in a first range of movement and a second range of movement. Furthermore, shifter assembly is modular in design and is easily integrated into the vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, a first embodiment of a shifter assembly20for selecting one of a plurality of gears of a transmission of a vehicle is generally shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. The shifter assembly20can be utilized as a shift-by-wire shifter assembly and a cable operated shifter assembly, as known in the art. However, it is to be appreciated that the shifter assembly20can be utilized in any suitable manner to select one of the plurality of gears of the transmission of the vehicle.

The shifter assembly20includes a support22secured to the vehicle. The support22can be secured to the vehicle by bolts, screws, pins, or any other suitable fasteners. The shifter assembly20further includes a lever24coupled to the support22. More specifically, the lever24has a base26and a rod28extending away from the base26, with the base26fixed to the support22. The base26can be secured to the support22by bolts, screws, clips, or any other suitable fastener. Moreover, it is to be appreciated that the lever24and the support22can be one integral component, as shown inFIGS. 6C and 6D.

As shown inFIGS. 5 and 7, the lever24defines an aperture30and an axis A with the axis A extending through the aperture30. Furthermore, the lever24has a contact surface32disposed within the aperture30. More specifically, the contact surface32is disposed at a central position within the aperture30of the lever24. A first ramp34extends angularly from the contact surface32and a second ramp36extends angularly from the contact surface32in an opposite direction from the first ramp34. More specifically, the first and second ramps34,36extend angularly away from the axis A. As a result, the first ramp34and the axis A form a first angle α and the second ramp36and the axis A form a second angle β with the first angle α substantially equal to the second angle β. Furthermore, the first and second ramps34,36are mirror images of each other. It is to be appreciated that the ramps34,36can be any suitable configuration. In addition, the aperture30is divided into a first portion38between the axis A and extending upwardly towards the rod28of the lever24, and a second portion40between the axis A and extending downwardly towards the support22.

The aperture30is further defined as having a first terminal end42and a second terminal end44. The first and second ramps34,36extend angularly from the contact surface32to the first and second terminal ends42,44along the axis A, respectively. The ramps34,36radially surround the axis A in one of a substantially arcuate configuration and a substantially angular configuration. More specifically, in the substantially arcuate configuration, the first and second ramps34,36follow a substantially curved path around the axis A, as shown inFIG. 3A. In the substantially angular configuration, the first and second ramps34,36follow a path around the axis A that is polygonal in configuration, as shown inFIG. 3B. The polygonal configuration is further defined as an octagonal configuration in the illustrated embodiment. It is to be appreciated that the ramps34,36can radially surround the axis A in any other suitable configuration.

As shown inFIG. 2, a first post46and a second post48extend from the lever24in opposite directions transverse to the axis A with each of the first and second posts46,48extending to a distal end50. More specifically, the lever24includes a first shoulder51and a second shoulder53with the first and second posts46,48extending from the first and second shoulders51,53, respectively, as shown inFIGS. 2-4,6A,6B, and8. Furthermore, a first bushing52is attached to the distal end50of the first post46and a second bushing54is attached to the distal end50of the second post48. The first and second shoulders51,53and the first and second bushings52,54are substantially cylindrical in configuration. Furthermore, the first and second shoulders51,53and the first and second bushings52,54have a diameter with diameter of the first and second shoulders51,53less than the diameter of the first and second bushings52,54, as shown inFIG. 8. The first and second posts46,48define a square configuration extending from the lever24. However, it is to be appreciated that the first and second posts46,48may be a circle configuration or any other suitable configuration for coupling the first and second bushings52,54to the lever24. It is to be appreciated that in another embodiment the first and second posts46,48and first and second bushings52,54can be further defined as just one post and just one bushing. Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that in yet another embodiment the first and second posts46,48and first and second bushings52,54can be further defined as greater than two posts46,48and greater than two bushings52,54.

As shown inFIGS. 6C and 6D, the rod28of the lever24extends away from the base26towards a distal end. The rod28further defines an orifice55at the distal end with a plunger57and a biasing member29disposed within the orifice55. More specifically, the biasing member59is completely disposed within the orifice55and the plunger57is partially disposed within the orifice55. The biasing member59and the plunger57abut each other, such that the biasing member59biases the plunger57away from the base26of the lever24.

The shifter assembly20further includes a handle56defining an interior58with the handle56disposed over at least a portion of the lever24, as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B. More specifically, the rod28and part of the base26of the lever24are disposed within the interior58of the handle56.

As shown inFIG. 7, a pin60is disposed within the aperture30of the lever24. More specifically, the pin60engages the contact surface32of the lever24and engages one of the handle56and the support22to partially couple the lever24to the one of the handle56and the support22. In this embodiment, the pin60engages the handle56. However, it is to be appreciated that the pin60can engage the support22, as discussed below, in other embodiments.

Furthermore, the pin60defines a hole62extending through the pin60. The handle56includes a lower portion64that defines a pair of openings66coaxial with the hole62for receiving a fastener68to secure the handle56to the pin60. It is to be appreciated the fastener68can be any one of a bolt, screw, etc. The openings66are disposed on opposite sides of the lower portion64of the handle56. Each of the openings66further define a counter-bore configuration for completely disposing the fastener68therein. Moreover, the each of the fasteners68extend through each of the openings66into the hole62of the pin60to secure the handle56to the pin60.

A cover70is fixed to the support22by bolts, screws, pins, or any other suitable fasteners, as shown inFIG. 1. The cover70defines a cover opening72within which the lever24and the handle56are disposed. More specifically, the cover70partially encompasses the base26of the lever24and the lower portion64of the handle56such that the lever24and handle56project through the cover opening72. As such, an upper portion74of the handle56adjacent to the lower portion64of the handle56is disposed outside the cover70to allow communication with a user.

The handle56further includes a return device75disposed within the interior58of the handle56, as shown inFIGS. 6C and 6D. More specifically, the return device75is disposed in the upper portion74of the handle56. The return device75is substantially conical in configuration, with the return device75having an apex77and a base edge79. The upper portion74of the handle56further includes an end-stop surface81adjacent to the base edge79of the return device75. Furthermore, the plunger57of the lever24engages the return device75. More specifically, the plunger57selectively engages the apex77and the area of the return device75between the apex77and the base edge79. Engagement of the plunger57and the return device75will be described in greater detail below.

As shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the shifter assembly20further includes a pair of first engagement surfaces76spaced from each other and a pair of second engagement surfaces78spaced from each other with the first and second engagement surfaces76,78disposed on the one of the handle56and the support22. In this embodiment, the first and second engagement surfaces76,78are disposed on the handle56. However, it is to be appreciated that the first and second engagement surfaces76,78can be disposed on the support22, as discussed below, in other embodiments. The pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are disposed within the interior58of the handle56and are positioned such that the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are disposed on opposite sides of the interior58of the handle56. Furthermore, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are transverse to the pair of openings66of the lower portion64of the handle56.

Each of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78have a first end80and a second end82, as best shown inFIG. 6A. The first ends80of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are disposed toward the upper portion74of the handle56and the second ends82of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are disposed toward the lower portion64of the handle56. Furthermore, each of the pair of first engagement surfaces76are substantially parallel to each other and each of the pair of second engagement surfaces78are substantially parallel to each other. In addition, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are one of a linear configuration and a curvilinear configuration. More specifically, in the linear configuration, each of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78follow a linear path between the first end80and the second end82, as shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B. In the curvilinear configuration, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78follow a curvilinear path between the first end80and the second end82that apexes away from the lever24, as shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B. In this embodiment as shown inFIGS. 3A,3B,6A, and6B, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are the linear configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78can be any other suitable configuration.

As best shown inFIG. 8, the first bushing52is sandwiched between the pair of first engagement surfaces76and the second bushing54is sandwiched between the pair of second engagement surfaces78. More specifically, the first bushing52is disposed between and abuts each of the pair of first engagement surfaces76. Similarly, the second bushing54is disposed between and abuts each of the pair of second engagement surfaces78.

In the embodiment illustrated, each of the first and second bushings52,54include at least one void84such that the first bushing52at least partially deforms when sandwiched between the pair of first engagement surfaces76and the second bushing54at least partially deforms when sandwiched between the pair of second engagement surfaces78to reduce lash between the lever24and the one of the handle56and the support22, as shown inFIGS. 4 and 8. More specifically, each of the first and second bushings52,54include a hub86to couple the first and second bushings52,54to the respective first and second posts46,48. An outer ring88is spaced from and surrounds the hub86to engage the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78. A plurality of spokes90project radially from the hub86to the outer ring88to couple the outer ring88to the hub86. The at least one void84is defined between the hub86and the outer ring88. Furthermore, the at least one void84is further defined as a plurality of voids84with one of the voids84disposed between two of the spokes90. More specifically, the spokes90are juxtaposed to the voids84such that the spokes90and the voids84alternate radially about the hub86. When the first and second bushings52,54are sandwiched between the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78, respectively, the at least one void84allows at least one of the outer ring88and the spokes90to at least partially deform. Deformation of the first and second bushings52,54reduces lash between the handle56and the lever24.

As shown inFIG. 8, the first shoulder51of the lever24is disposed between the pair of first engagement surfaces76of the handle56and the second shoulder53of the lever24is disposed between the pair of second engagement surfaces78of the handle56. Under nominal deformation of the first and second bushings52,54, the first and second shoulders51,53do not engage any one of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78. When an excess load is exerted on the handle56, the first and second bushings52,54deform further until any one of the first and second shoulders51,53engage any one of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78, respectively. Engagement of the first and second shoulders51,53with the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78, respectively, ensures that the first and second bushings52,54do not continue to deform until any one of the bushings52,54break or undergo, as it is known in the art, plastic deformation. Prevention of the breakage or plastic deformation of the first and second bushings52,54ensures the function and longevity of the bushings52,54.

As best illustrated inFIG. 6B, the pin60is rotatable towards the first and second ramps34,36to define a first range of movement between the lever24and one of the handle56and the support22. In this embodiment, the first range of movement is between the lever24and the handle56. However, it is to be appreciated that the first range of movement can be between the lever24and the support22, as discussed below, in other embodiments. The first range of movement is further defined as the handle56pivoting relative to the support22to a left position and a right position.

When the handle56pivots to the left position, the pin60rotates towards the first ramp34in the second portion40of the aperture30of the lever24and concurrently rotates towards the second ramp36in the first portion38of the aperture30. When the handle56pivots to the right position, the pin60rotates towards the first ramp34in the first portion38of the aperture30of the lever24and concurrently rotates towards the second ramp36in the second portion40of the aperture30.

In the substantially arcuate configuration of the first and second ramps34,36as shown inFIGS. 3A,4,6A, and6B, the pin60has a diameter D and the terminal ends42,44of the aperture30have a width W and a height H with the height H greater than or equal to the width W. More specifically, the width W is further defined as either one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first terminal end42perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between the two opposing sides of the second terminal end44perpendicular to the axis A, along a horizontal plane defined by the axis A and the first and second posts46,48. For illustrative purposes, the plane of the cross-section shown inFIG. 8is the same as the horizontal plane. As mentioned above, the first and second ramps34,36extend angularly from the contact surface32to the first and second terminal ends42,44along the axis A, respectively. Furthermore, the first and second ramps34,36are mirror images of each other. As such, the width W of the first terminal end42is equal to the width W of the second terminal end44.

The width W is transverse to the height H and both the width W and the height H are transverse to the axis A of the lever24. As such, the height H is further defined as either one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first terminal end42perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between the two opposing sides of the second terminal end44perpendicular to the axis A, along a vertical plane defined by the axis A and extending perpendicular to the horizontal plane. For illustrative purposes, the plane of the cross-section shown inFIG. 7is the same as the vertical plane. As mentioned above, the first and second ramps34,36are mirror images of each other. As such, the height H of the first terminal end42is equal to the height H of the second terminal end44. It is to be appreciated that the width W could also be defined as one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first ramp34perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between each of the two opposing sides of the second ramp36perpendicular to the axis A, along the horizontal plane. Moreover, the height H could also be defined as one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first ramp34perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between each of the two opposing sides of the second ramp36perpendicular to the axis A, along the vertical plane.

The width W of the aperture30is substantially equal to the diameter D of the pin60such that the pin60only pivots along the height H during the first range of movement to reduce lash in the first range of movement between the lever24and the one of the handle56and the support22. In this embodiment, lash is reduced between the lever24and the handle56. However, it is to be appreciated that lash can be reduced between the lever24and the support22, as discussed below, in other embodiments.

The first range of movement is further defined as one of relative rotation between the first and second posts46,48and the first and second bushings52,54, respectively, and relative rotation between the first and second bushings52,54and the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78, respectively, as the handle56pivots between the left and right positions. Moreover, as the handle56pivots between the left and right positions, the first and second bushings52,54do not translate along the elongated pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78. The square configuration of the first and second posts46,48inhibits relative rotation between the first and second posts46,48and the first and second bushings52,54, respectively. As such, relative rotation occurs between the first bushing52and the pair of first engagement surfaces76and between the second bushing54and the pair of second engagement surfaces78. It is to be appreciated that in another embodiment in which the first and second posts46,48are in the circle configuration, the first bushing52remains stationary between the pair of first engagement surfaces76while rotating relative to first post46and the second bushing54remains stationary between the pair of second engagement surfaces78while rotating relative to the second post48.

As best illustrated inFIG. 6A, the sandwiching of the first bushing52between the pair of first engagement surfaces76and the sandwiching of the second bushing54between the pair of second engagement surfaces78defines a second range of movement and fully couples the lever24to the one of the handle56and the support22. In this embodiment, the lever24is fully coupled to the handle56. However, it is to be appreciated that the lever24can be fully coupled to the support22, as discussed below, in other embodiments. The second range of movement is further defined as the handle56pivoting relative to the support22to a forward position and a rearward position. Moreover, the second range of movement is transverse to the first range of movement. More specifically, the second range of movement is perpendicular to the first range of movement. It is to be appreciated that the forward, rearward, left, and right positions can be any suitable configuration in which the second range of movement is transverse to the first range of movement.

Each of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78are elongated. As a result, the first and second bushings52,54translate along the pair of first and second engagement surfaces76,78, respectively, during the second range of movement. More specifically, the first bushing52moves towards the first end80of the pair of first engagement surfaces76and the second bushing54moves towards the second end82of the pair of second engagement surfaces78when the handle56is pivoted to the forward position during the second range of movement. Similarly, the first bushing52moves towards the second end82of the pair of first engagement surfaces76and the second bushing54moves towards the first end80of the pair of second engagement surfaces78when the handle56is pivoted to the rearward position during the second range of movement.

The second range of movement is further defined as relative rotation between the pin60and the lever24. More specifically, as the handle56pivots to one of the forward and rearward positions, the pin60rotates with the handle56such that the pin60pivots within the aperture30relative the lever24. It is to be appreciated that in another embodiment relative rotation can occur between the pin60and the handle56. More specifically, the handle56rotates about the pin60while the pin60remains stationary within the aperture30of the lever24.

As mentioned above, the base26of the lever24is fixed to the support22. As such, the handle56pivots to any one of the forward, rearward, left, and right positions relative to the lever24. More specifically, the handle is initially positioned in an intermediate position between the left and right positions and the forward and rearward positions, as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B. Furthermore, in this embodiment the handle is biased to the intermediate position. However, it is appreciated that the handle could lack a bias to the intermediate position. Each of the forward, rearward, left, and right positions correspond to one of the plurality of gears of the transmission of the vehicle. More specifically, the forward position corresponds to a “Drive” gear of the transmission. The reverse position corresponds to a “Reverse” gear of the transmission. The left position corresponds to a “Neutral” gear of the transmission. The right position corresponds to a “Park” gear of the transmission. It is to be appreciated that any one of the forward, rearward, left, and right positions can correspond to any one of the “Drive,” “Reverse,” “Neutral,” and “Park” gears of the transmission.

Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that the handle56of the shifter assembly20can be pivoted to any position between the forward, rearward, left, and right positions. More specifically, the handle56can pivot to a resultant position disposed within the angles between the forward and right positions, the right and rearward positions, the rearward and left positions, and the left and forward positions. When pivoted to the resultant position, the handle56pivots relative to the lever24in a combination of the first and second range of movements.

As mentioned above, the plunger57of the lever24engages the return device75of the handle56, as shown inFIGS. 6C and 6D. More specifically, the plunger57engages the apex77when the handle56is in the intermediate position, as shown inFIG. 6C. The plunger57engages the return device75proximate the base edge79when the handle56is pivoted to any one of the forward, rearward, left, right, and resultant positions, as shown inFIG. 6D. Moreover, the end-stop surface81of the handle56engages the lever24such that the engagement inhibits further movement of the handle56as the handle56pivots to any one of the forward, rearward, left, right, and resultant positions. When the user releases the handle56, the bias exerted by the biasing member59of the lever24on the plunger57causes the plunger57to translate away from the base26of the lever24. The angularity of the conical configuration of the return device75causes the handle56to concurrently pivot towards intermediate position as the plunger57moves along the return device75away from the base edge79towards the apex77.

As previously mentioned, the return device75is substantially conical in configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the return device75can be any suitable configuration. As non-limiting examples, the return device75can include channels to further define a path along which the handle56can pivot in the first and second range of movements. Furthermore, the return device75can include detents to provide a haptic feedback to the user as the handle56is pivoted. The haptic feedback can be used to indicate changing the gear of the transmission of the vehicle.

In a preferred alternative shown inFIG. 3A, the lever24defines a bore92with the lever24further including a liner94mounted within the bore92of the lever24. The bore92extends through the lever24along the axis A. The liner94in turn defines the aperture30instead of the lever24defining the aperture30. Furthermore, the liner94has the contact surface32disposed within the aperture30. More specifically, the contact surface32is disposed at the central position within the aperture30of the liner94, as shown inFIG. 5. As mentioned above, the first ramp34extends angularly from the contact surface32and the second ramp36extends angularly from the contact surface32in an opposite direction from the first ramp34. More specifically, the first and second ramps34,36extend angularly away from the axis A. As a result, the first ramp34and the axis A form the first angle α and the second ramp36and the axis A form the second angle β with the first angle α substantially equal to the second angle β. Furthermore, the first and second ramps34,36are minor images of each other. It is to be appreciated that the ramps34,36can be any suitable configuration. In addition, the aperture30is divided into the first portion38between the axis A and extending upwardly towards the rod28of the lever24, and the second portion40between the axis A and extending downwardly towards the support22.

The pin60engages the contact surface32and is rotatable towards the first and second ramps34,36to define a range of movement between the lever24and the one of the handle56and the support22, as shown inFIG. 6B. In this embodiment, the range of movement is between the lever24and the handle56. However, it is to be appreciated that the first range of movement can be between the lever24and the support22, as discussed below, in other embodiments. It is to be appreciated that the range of movement is equivalent to the aforementioned first range of movement.

The lever24further includes a first retaining feature96and the liner94includes a second retaining feature98. The first and second retaining features96,98engage each other to couple the liner94to the lever24, as shown inFIG. 5. The first retaining feature96of the lever24is further defined as at least one channel100adjacent to the bore92with a stud102disposed within the channel100. More specifically, the stud102is disposed at a middle position within the channel100. The second retaining feature98of the liner94is further defined as at least one pair of flanges104disposed on the liner94. The pair of flanges104are disposed within the channel100of the lever24. Furthermore, the pair of flanges104define a gap106to dispose the stud102in the gap106and sandwich the stud102between the pair of flanges104.

The at least one channel100is further defined as a pair of channels100disposed opposite each other and adjacent to the bore92. Furthermore, the at least one pair of flanges104is further defined as two pair of flanges104disposed opposite each other on the liner94such that the pair of flanges104of the liner94correspond to the channel100of the lever24. It is to be appreciated that that the first and second retaining features96,98can be any suitable configuration to couple the liner94to the lever24.

The lever24has a first anti-rotation feature108and the liner94has a second anti-rotation feature110with the first and second anti-rotation features108,110engaging each other to prevent rotation of the liner94within the bore92of the lever24, as shown inFIGS. 3A and 8. More specifically, the first anti-rotation feature108of the lever24is further defined as at least one recess112adjacent to the bore92and the second anti-rotation feature110of the liner94is further defined as at least one tab114extending away from the liner94with the tab114disposed within the recess112. The at least one recess112is further defined as two recesses112disposed opposite each other and adjacent to the bore92. Moreover, the recesses112are transverse to the channels100of the first retaining feature96of the lever24. Furthermore, the at least one tab114is further defined as two tabs114disposed opposite each other on the liner94such that the tabs114of the liner94correspond to the recesses112of the lever24. It is to be appreciated that the first and second anti-rotation features108,110can be any suitable configuration to prevent rotation of the liner94within the bore92of the lever24.

The pin60radially displaces the contact surface32of the liner94to reduce lash between the pin60and the liner94. More specifically, the liner94defines a cavity116adjacent the contact surface32to facilitate displacement of the contact surface32, as shown inFIG. 7. Furthermore, the cavity116is further defined as a pair of cavities116disposed on the liner94opposite each other and adjacent to the contact surface32of the liner94. More specifically, each of cavities116are disposed proximate to one of the pair of flanges104of the second retaining feature98of the liner94.

As previously mentioned, the ramps34,36radially surround the axis A in one of the substantially arcuate configuration and the substantially angular configuration. In this alternative as shown inFIG. 3A, the ramps34,36surround the axis A in the substantially arcuate configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the ramps34,36can radially surround the axis A in the substantially angular configuration or any other suitable configuration.

It is to be appreciated that in another alternative, the aperture30is defined explicitly by the lever24. In other words, the lever24lacks the bore92into which the liner94is inserted. In this alternative as shown inFIG. 3B, the ramps34,36surround the axis A in the substantially angular configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the ramps34,36can radially surround the axis A in the substantially arcuate configuration or any other suitable configuration.

Referring toFIGS. 9 and 10, a second embodiment of a shifter assembly120for selecting one of a plurality of gears of a transmission of a vehicle, wherein like reference numerals increased by 100 indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, is generally shown. Identical components discussed in the first embodiment of the assembly20have the same reference numerals in this embodiment and additional components of this embodiment have new reference numerals. In this embodiment of the assembly120and as similarly discussed in the first embodiment of the assembly20, the first and second bushings52,54, the pin60, and the liner94through which the pin60is disposed are utilized for the reduction of lash in the shifter assembly120.

The primary distinction between the first embodiment of the assembly20and this embodiment of the assembly120is the lever24fixed to the support22having the handle56pivotable relative to the support22and the lever24in assembly20is replaced with a lever124, a handle156, and a support122with the handle156and the lever124fixed to each other and pivotable relative to the support122in the assembly120.

The shifter assembly120can be utilized as a shift-by-wire shifter assembly and a cable operated shifter assembly, as known in the art. However, it is to be appreciated that the shifter assembly120can be utilized in any suitable manner to select one of the plurality of gears of the transmission of the vehicle.

The lever124, having a top end200and a bottom end202, defines an aperture130and an axis A, with the axis A extending through the aperture130. More specifically, the aperture130is disposed at the bottom end202of the lever124. The lever124has a contact surface132disposed within the aperture130, as shown inFIG. 13. More specifically, the contact surface132is disposed at a central position within the aperture130of the lever124. A first ramp134extends angularly from the contact surface132and a second ramp136extends angularly from the contact surface132in an opposite direction from the first ramp134. More specifically, the first and second ramps134,136extend angularly away from the axis A. As a result, the first ramp134and the axis A form a first angle α and the second ramp136and the axis A form a second angle β with the first angle α substantially equal to the second angle β, similar to the first embodiment as shown inFIG. 5. Furthermore, the first and second ramps134,136are mirror images of each other. It is to be appreciated that the ramps134,136can be any suitable configuration. In addition, the aperture130is divided into a first portion138between the axis A and extending upwardly towards top end200the lever124, and a second portion140between the axis A and extending downwardly towards the bottom end202of the lever124.

The aperture130is further defined as having a first terminal end142and a second terminal end144. The first and second ramps134,136extend angularly from the contact surface132to the first and second terminal ends142,144along the axis A, respectively. The ramps134,136radially surround the axis A in one of a substantially arcuate configuration and a substantially angular configuration. More specifically, in the substantially arcuate configuration, the first and second ramps134,136follow a substantially curved path around the axis A, as shown inFIG. 11B. In the substantially angular configuration, the first and second ramps134,136follow a path around the axis A that is polygonal in configuration, as shown inFIG. 11A. The polygonal configuration is further defined as an octagonal configuration in the illustrated embodiment. It is to be appreciated that the ramps134,136can radially surround the axis A in any other suitable configuration.

As shown inFIGS. 10-11Band13, a first post146and a second post148extend from the lever124in opposite directions transverse to the axis A with each of the first and second posts146,148extending to a distal end150. More specifically, the lever124includes a first shoulder151and a second shoulder153with the first and second posts146,148extending from the first and second shoulders151,153, respectively. Furthermore, the first bushing52is attached to the distal end150of the first post146and the second bushing54is attached to the distal end150of the second post148. The first and second shoulders151,153and the first and second bushings52,54are substantially cylindrical in configuration. Furthermore, the first and second shoulders151,153and the first and second bushings52,54have a diameter with the diameter of the first and second shoulders151,153less than the diameter of the first and second bushings52,54. The first and second posts146,148define a square configuration extending from the lever124. However, it is to be appreciated that the first and second posts146,148may be a circle configuration or any other suitable configuration for coupling the first and second bushings52,54to the lever124. It is to be appreciated that in another embodiment the first and second posts146,148and first and second bushings52,54can be further defined as just one post and just one bushing. Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that in yet another embodiment the first and second posts146,148and first and second bushings52,54can be further defined as greater than two posts146,148and greater than two bushings52,54.

As shown inFIG. 10and similar to the first embodiment shownFIGS. 6C and 6D, the lever124further includes a protrusion203extending angularly from the bottom end202of the lever124towards a distal end in a direction substantially towards the top end200of the lever124. The protrusion203further defines an orifice155at the distal end with a plunger157. A biasing member (not shown) is disposed within the orifice155. More specifically, the biasing member is completely disposed within the orifice155and the plunger157is partially disposed within the orifice155. The biasing member and the plunger157abut each other, such that the biasing member biases the plunger157away from the bottom end202of the lever124.

The shifter assembly120further includes the handle156defining an interior158with the handle156disposed over at least a portion of the lever124. More specifically, the handle156is disposed over the top end200of the lever124and is rigidly secured to the lever124.

As shown inFIG. 9, the shifter assembly120includes the support122secured to the vehicle. The support122can be secured to the vehicle by bolts, screws, pins, or any other suitable fasteners. The support122includes a first section204and a second section206with the first and second sections204,206coupled to each other by any one of a bolt, pin, screw, or any other suitable fastener. The support122partially encompasses the lever124. More specifically, the support122defines a hollow208with a portion of the lever124disposed within the hollow208of the support122, as shown inFIG. 10. Moreover, at least the bottom end202of the lever124is disposed within the support122.

The lever124is coupled to the support122. More specifically, the pin60is disposed within the hollow208of the support122and engages the support122within the hollow208. More specifically, the pin60is disposed within the aperture130of the lever124. As shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, the pin60engages the contact surface132of the lever124and engages one of the handle156and the support122to partially couple the lever124to the one of the handle156and the support122. In this embodiment, the pin60engages the support122. However, it is to be appreciated that the pin60can engage the handle156, as discussed above, in other embodiments.

In this embodiment, the pin60is integral with the first section204of the support122, as shown inFIG. 10. The second section206of the support122defines an opening210coaxial with the hole62of the pin60for receiving the fastener68to further couple the first section204to the pin60and the second section206, as well as couple the lever124to the support122. It is to be appreciated the fastener68can be any one of a bolt, screw, etc. The opening210further defines a counter-bore configuration for completely disposing the fastener68therein. Moreover, the fastener68extends through the opening210into the hole62of the pin60to secure the handle156to the pin60, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13. It is to be appreciated that the pin60can be a separate component from the first section204of the support122with the pin60disposed within the hollow208of the support122and coupled to the first and second sections204,206of the housing. It is also to be appreciated that the pin60can be integral with the second section206of the housing and such that the first section204of the housing defines the opening210coaxial with the hole62of the pin60for receiving the fastener68to secure the first section204to the pin60.

Similar to the first embodiment shownFIGS. 6C and 6D, the support122further includes a return device disposed within the hollow208of the support122adjacent the handle156. The plunger157of the lever124engages the return device as described below.

As shown inFIGS. 11A,11B, and13, the shifter assembly120further includes a pair of first engagement surfaces176spaced from each other and a pair of second engagement surfaces178spaced from each other with the first and second engagement surfaces176,178disposed on the one of the handle156and the support122. In this embodiment, the first and second engagement surfaces176,178are disposed on the support122. However, it is to be appreciated that the first and second engagement surfaces176,178can be disposed on the handle156, as discussed above, in other embodiments. The pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are disposed within the hollow208of the support122and are positioned such that the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are disposed on opposite sides of the hollow208of the support122. Furthermore, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are transverse to the pin60disposed within the hollow208of the support122.

Each of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178have a first end180and a second end182. The first ends180of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are disposed away from handle156and the second ends182of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are disposed toward the handle156. Furthermore, each of the pair of first engagement surfaces176are substantially parallel to each other and each of the pair of second engagement surfaces178are substantially parallel to each other. In addition, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are one of a linear configuration and a curvilinear configuration. More specifically, in the linear configuration, each of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178follow a linear path between the first end180and the second end182as shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B. In the curvilinear configuration, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178follow a curvilinear path between the first end180and the second end182that apexes away from the lever124, as shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B. In this embodiment as shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B, the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are the curvilinear configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178can be any other suitable configuration.

As shown inFIG. 13, the first bushing52is sandwiched between the pair of first engagement surfaces176and the second bushing54is sandwiched between the pair of second engagement surfaces178. More specifically, the first bushing52is disposed between and abuts each of the pair of first engagement surfaces176. Similarly, the second bushing54is disposed between and abuts each of the pair of second engagement surfaces178.

As shown inFIG. 13, the first shoulder151of the lever124is disposed between the pair of first engagement surfaces176of the support122and the second shoulder153of the lever124is disposed between the pair of second engagement surfaces178of the support122. Under nominal deformation of the first and second bushings152,154, the first and second shoulders151,153do not engage any one of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178. When an excess load is exerted on the handle156, the first and second bushings52,54deform further until any one of the first and second shoulders151,153engage any one of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178, respectively. Engagement of the first and second shoulders151,153with the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178, respectively, ensures that the first and second bushings52,54do not continue to deform until any one of the bushings52,54break or undergo, as it is known in the art, plastic deformation. Prevention of the breakage or plastic deformation of the first and second bushings52,54ensures the function and longevity of the bushings52,54.

The pin60is rotatable towards the first and second ramps134,136to define a first range of movement between the lever124and one of the handle156and the support122, similar to the first range of movement of the first embodiment shown inFIG. 6B. In this embodiment, the first range of movement is between the lever124and the support122. However, it is to be appreciated that the first range of movement can be between the lever124and the handle156, as discussed above, in other embodiments. The first range of movement is further defined as the handle156pivoting relative to the support122to a left position and a right position. More specifically, the handle156is fixed to the lever124such that the handle156and the lever124pivot as a unit. In this embodiment, hereinafter any reference to the pivoting of the handle156refers to the concurrent pivoting of the handle156and the lever124.

When the handle156pivots to the left position, the pin60rotates towards the first ramp134in the first portion138of the aperture130of the lever124and concurrently rotates towards the second ramp136in the second portion140of the aperture130. When the handle156pivots to the right position, the pin60rotates towards the first ramp134in the second portion140of the aperture130of the lever124and concurrently rotates towards the second ramp136in the first portion138of the aperture130.

In the substantially arcuate configuration of the first and second ramps34,36as shown inFIG. 11Aand similar to the first embodiment as shown inFIGS. 3A,4,6A, and6B, the pin60has a diameter D and the terminal ends142,144of the aperture130have a width W and a height H with the height H greater than or equal to the width W. More specifically, the width W is further defined as either one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first terminal end142perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between the two opposing sides of the second terminal end144perpendicular to the axis A, along a horizontal plane defined by the axis A and the first and second posts146,148. For illustrative purposes, the plane of the cross-section shown inFIG. 13is the same as the horizontal plane. As mentioned above, the first and second ramps134,136extend angularly from the contact surface132to the first and second terminal ends142,144along the axis A, respectively. Furthermore, the first and second ramps134,136are mirror images of each other. As such, the width W of the first terminal end142is equal to the width W of the second terminal end144.

The width W is transverse to the height H and both the width W and the height H are transverse to the axis A of the lever24. As such, the height H is further defined as either one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first terminal end142perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between the two opposing sides of the second terminal end144perpendicular to the axis A, along a vertical plane defined by the axis A and extending perpendicular to the horizontal plane. For illustrative purposes, the plane of the cross-section shown inFIG. 12is the same as the vertical plane. As mentioned above, the first and second ramps134,136are mirror images of each other. As such, the height H of the first terminal end142is equal to the height H of the second terminal end144. It is to be appreciated that the width W could also be defined as one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first ramp134perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between each of the two opposing sides of the second ramp136perpendicular to the axis A, along the horizontal plane. Moreover, the height H could also be defined as one of the distance between the two opposing sides of the first ramp134perpendicular to the axis A and the distance between each of the two opposing sides of the second ramp136perpendicular to the axis A, along the vertical plane.

The width W of the aperture130is substantially equal to the diameter D of the pin60such that the pin60only pivots along the height H during the first range of movement to reduce lash in the first range of movement between the lever24and the one of the handle56and the support22. In this embodiment, lash is reduced between the lever124and the handle156. However, it is to be appreciated that lash can be reduced between the lever124and the support122, as discussed above, in other embodiments.

The first range of movement is further defined as one of relative rotation between the first and second posts146,148, respectively, and the first and second bushings52,54, respectively, and relative rotation between the first and second bushings52,54and the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178, respectively, as the handle156pivots between the left and right positions. Moreover, as the handle156pivots between the left and right positions, the first and second bushings52,54do not translate along the elongated pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178. The square configuration of the first and second posts146,148inhibits relative rotation between the first and second posts146,148and the first and second bushings52,54, respectively. As such, relative rotation occurs between the first bushing52and the pair of first engagement surfaces176and between the second bushing54and the pair of second engagement surfaces178. It is to be appreciated that in another embodiment in which the first and second posts146,148are in the circle configuration, the first bushing52remains stationary between the pair of first engagement surfaces176while rotating relative to first post146and the second bushing54remains stationary between the pair of second engagement surfaces178while rotating relative to second post148.

The sandwiching of the first bushing52between the pair of first engagement surfaces176and the sandwiching of the second bushing54between the pair of second engagement surfaces178, as shown inFIG. 13, defines a second range of movement and fully couples the lever124to the one of the handle156and the support122, similar to the second range of movement of the first embodiment shown inFIG. 6A. In this embodiment, the lever124is fully coupled to the support122. However, it is to be appreciated that the lever124can be fully coupled to the handle156, as discussed above, in other embodiments. The second range of movement is further defined as the handle156pivoting relative to the support122to a forward position and a rearward position. Moreover, the second range of movement is transverse to the first range of movement. More specifically, the second range of movement is perpendicular to the first range of movement. It is to be appreciated that the forward, rearward, left, and right positions can be any suitable configuration in which the second range of movement is transverse to the first range of movement.

As shown inFIGS. 10,11A, and11B, each of the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178are elongated. As a result, the first and second bushings52,54translate along the pair of first and second engagement surfaces176,178, respectively, during the second range of movement. More specifically, the first bushing52moves towards the first end180of the pair of first engagement surfaces176and the second bushing54moves towards the second end182of the pair of second engagement surfaces178when the handle156is pivoted to the forward position during the second range of movement. Similarly, the first bushing52moves towards the second end182of the pair of first engagement surfaces176and the second bushing54moves towards the first end180of the pair of second engagement surfaces178when the handle156is pivoted to the rearward position during the second range of movement.

The second range of movement is further defined as relative rotation between the pin60and the lever124. More specifically, as the handle156pivots to one of the forward and rearward positions, the pin60remains stationary relative to the support122while the lever124rotates about the pin60. It is to be appreciated that in another embodiment relative rotation can occur between the pin60and the support122. More specifically, the pin60rotates relative to the support122while the pin60remains stationary within the aperture130of the lever124.

As mentioned above, the support122partially encompasses the lever124and the handle156is fixed to the lever124such that the handle156and the lever124pivot as a unit to any one of the forward, rearward, left, and right positions relative to the support122. More specifically, the handle is initially positioned in an intermediate position between the left and right positions and the forward and rearward positions, as shownFIGS. 11A and 11B. Furthermore, in this embodiment the handle is biased to the intermediate position. However, it is appreciated that the handle could lack a bias to the intermediate position. It is to be appreciated that the handle156can be pivoted to any position between the forward, rearward, left, and right positions. More specifically, the handle156can pivot to a resultant position disposed within the angles between the forward and right positions, the right and rearward positions, the rearward and left positions, and the left and forward positions. When pivoted to the resultant position, the handle156pivots relative to the support122in a combination of the first and second range of movements.

As mentioned above, the plunger157of the lever124engages the return device of the support122in a similar manner to the first embodiment shownFIGS. 6C and 6D. When the user releases the handle156, the bias exerted by the biasing member of the lever124on the plunger157causes the plunger157to translate away from the lever124. The return device causes the handle156and the lever124to concurrently pivot towards the intermediate position.

As shown inFIG. 9, the support122defines a gate channel212through which the lever124extends from the hollow208of the support122to outside of the support122. The gate channel212defines specific paths for the handle156as the handle156pivots between the forward, rearward, left, and right positions. In the present embodiment, the gate channel212is configured in an “H” configuration. Such configurations are well known in the art wherein each of the branches of the “H” correspond to one of a “First,” “Second,” “Third,” and “Fourth” gears of the transmission of the vehicle with the crossbar of the “H” corresponding to a “Neutral” gear of the transmission as is commonly utilized in vehicles with a standard transmission. Furthermore, each of the branches of the “H” could correspond to one of a “Park,” “Reverse,” “Neutral,” and “Drive” gears of the transmission as is commonly utilized in vehicles with an automatic transmission. It is to be appreciated that the gate channel212may be any suitable configuration for selecting any suitable gear of the transmission.

In a preferred alternative, the aperture130is defined explicitly by the lever124, as shown inFIG. 11A. In other words, the lever124lacks the bore92, as described in the first embodiment, into which the liner94is inserted. In this alternative, the ramps134,136surround the axis A in the substantially angular configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the ramps134,136can radially surround the axis A in the substantially arcuate configuration or any other suitable configuration.

It is to be appreciated that in another alternative, the lever124defines a bore192in which the liner94is disposed, as shown inFIG. 11B. In this alternative, the ramps134,136surround the axis A in the substantially arcuate configuration. However, it is to be appreciated that the ramps134,136can radially surround the axis A in the substantially angular configuration or any other suitable configuration.

The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. As is now apparent to those skilled in the art, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, wherein reference numerals are merely for convenience and are not to be in any way limiting, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.