US20010029804A1 - Cable assembly having an interlocking device and an adjustment device - Google Patents
Cable assembly having an interlocking device and an adjustment device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20010029804A1 US20010029804A1 US09/886,630 US88663001A US2001029804A1 US 20010029804 A1 US20010029804 A1 US 20010029804A1 US 88663001 A US88663001 A US 88663001A US 2001029804 A1 US2001029804 A1 US 2001029804A1
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- Prior art keywords
- cable assembly
- interlock
- assembly
- housing
- set forth
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 8
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C1/00—Flexible shafts; Mechanical means for transmitting movement in a flexible sheathing
- F16C1/10—Means for transmitting linear movement in a flexible sheathing, e.g. "Bowden-mechanisms"
- F16C1/22—Adjusting; Compensating length
- F16C1/223—Adjusting; Compensating length by adjusting the effective length of the flexible member
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C1/00—Flexible shafts; Mechanical means for transmitting movement in a flexible sheathing
- F16C1/10—Means for transmitting linear movement in a flexible sheathing, e.g. "Bowden-mechanisms"
- F16C1/102—Arrangements to mount end fittings of the sheathings to support walls or brackets
- F16C1/105—Arrangements to mount end fittings of the sheathings to support walls or brackets to a slot in the bracket
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C1/00—Flexible shafts; Mechanical means for transmitting movement in a flexible sheathing
- F16C1/10—Means for transmitting linear movement in a flexible sheathing, e.g. "Bowden-mechanisms"
- F16C1/12—Arrangements for transmitting movement to or from the flexible member
- F16C1/14—Construction of the end-piece of the flexible member; Attachment thereof to the flexible member
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C1/00—Flexible shafts; Mechanical means for transmitting movement in a flexible sheathing
- F16C1/10—Means for transmitting linear movement in a flexible sheathing, e.g. "Bowden-mechanisms"
- F16C1/22—Adjusting; Compensating length
- F16C1/226—Adjusting; Compensating length by adjusting the effective length of the sheathing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C1/00—Flexible shafts; Mechanical means for transmitting movement in a flexible sheathing
- F16C1/26—Construction of guiding-sheathings or guiding-tubes
- F16C1/262—End fittings; Attachment thereof to the sheathing or tube
- F16C1/265—End fittings; Attachment thereof to the sheathing or tube with a swivel tube connected to the end-fitting of a sheathing, e.g. with a spherical joint
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2200/00—Constructional details of connections not covered for in other groups of this subclass
- F16B2200/69—Redundant disconnection blocking means
- F16B2200/71—Blocking disengagement of catches or keys
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/4981—Utilizing transitory attached element or associated separate material
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49863—Assembling or joining with prestressing of part
- Y10T29/4987—Elastic joining of parts
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49895—Associating parts by use of aligning means [e.g., use of a drift pin or a "fixture"]
- Y10T29/49899—Associating parts by use of aligning means [e.g., use of a drift pin or a "fixture"] by multiple cooperating aligning means
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
- Y10T403/32—Articulated members
- Y10T403/32254—Lockable at fixed position
- Y10T403/32426—Plural distinct positions
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
- Y10T403/70—Interfitted members
- Y10T403/7075—Interfitted members including discrete retainer
- Y10T403/7077—Interfitted members including discrete retainer for telescoping members
- Y10T403/7079—Transverse pin
- Y10T403/7081—Multiple retainers
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
- Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
- Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
- Y10T74/20408—Constant tension sustaining
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
- Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
- Y10T74/2045—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable] and sheath support, connector, or anchor
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
- Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
- Y10T74/20462—Specific cable connector or guide
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a shifter cable assembly having an interlock device integral therewith, and more specifically, to an adjustment assembly which ensures proper operation of the interlock device following installation of the cable assembly into the vehicle.
- Interlock devices are incorporated into vehicle control mechanisms to prevent the transmission from being shifted out of the park position unless the brake pedal is depressed.
- the cable assembly includes a conduit with a core element movably disposed therein. One end of the core element is secured to the transmission and the other end of the core element is secured to the shifter, such as a column shift lever. The column shift lever transmits movement to the transmission through the core element.
- One type of interlock device operates by engaging an element associated with the core element to prevent its movement unless the brake pedal is depressed. This is achieved by utilizing a solenoid that is actuated by a brake pedal signal. It is desirable to provide an interlock device that is integral with the cable assembly to reduce the number of components required for the interlock system.
- interlock devices are integral with the cable assembly and which utilize a pin transverse to an aperture associated with the core element. The pin engages the aperture to prevent its movement.
- the alignment of the pin and aperture is critical to ensure proper operation of the interlock device.
- the core element During installation of the cable assembly into the vehicle, the core element must be moved within the conduit to connect the ends of the cable assembly to their respective shifter components. As a result, the position of the aperture may change slightly with respect to the pin and cause the interlock device to operate improperly.
- Other interlock devices that are non-integral with the cable assembly do not present this alignment problem because the brackets that are used to support the components may align the features. Therefore, what is needed is an adjustment assembly to ensure proper operation of the integral shifter cable interlock after installation of the cable assembly into the vehicle.
- the present invention provides a cable assembly having a conduit defining an axis.
- a core element is disposed within the conduit and is movable along the axis.
- a terminal assembly is secured to a portion of the core element and has an end connector.
- An interlock device is disposed adjacent the terminal assembly and is movable between a release position allowing relative movement between the terminal assembly and the interlock device and an engaged position preventing the relative movement between the terminal assembly and the interlock device.
- a base portion extends from the interlock device.
- An adjustment housing is at least partially disposed about the base portion for selectively allowing axial adjustment of the base portion and the interlock device relative to the adjustment housing to tension the core element.
- a movable lock is slideably supported by the adjustment housing and movable between an engaged position interconnecting the adjustment housing to the base portion to define a fixed position of the interlock device relative to the adjustment housing, and a disengaged position allowing relative movement between the adjustment housing and the base portion for providing the axial adjustment and the tensioning of the core element, an adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock.
- the present invention provides a cable assembly that includes both an interlock device used in automatic transmissions and an adjustment device for adjusting the tension in the cable.
- This combination of features is particularly advantageous in that the interlock device and adjustment device are mounted to a common cable assembly.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustment assembly of the present invention on for an integral shifter cable interlock
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the present invention similar to FIG. 1 with a portion of an interlock housing and swivel tube removed;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the present invention similar to FIG. 2 with another portion of the interlock housing removed;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 5 - 5 in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the present invention similar to FIG. 1 in an installed position.
- an adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock is generally shown at 10 in FIG. 1.
- the assembly 10 includes a cable assembly, generally shown at 11 , having a conduit 12 defining an axis A and a core element 14 is disposed within the conduit 12 which is movable along the axis A.
- a terminal assembly 15 is secured to a portion of the core element 14 .
- the terminal assembly 15 further includes an end connector 16 adapted for connection to a shifter (not shown), such as a column shifter.
- One end 18 of the core element 14 is secured to the transmission, as is known in the art, and the other end of the core element 14 , which has the terminal assembly 15 , is secured by the end connector 16 to the shifter, in a manner known in the art.
- the column shift lever transmits movement to the transmission through the core element 14 .
- the cable assembly 11 includes a swivel tube 20 that is pivotally connected to a mounting member 22 .
- the mounting member 22 is connected to a support member (not shown) in a vehicle for supporting the cable assembly 11 .
- the swivel tube 20 permits the end of the cable assembly 11 to be positioned for attachment to the shifter.
- An interlock housing, generally shown at 24 is supported on the cable assembly 11 and includes a lower portion 26 having a base portion 28 and an upper portion 30 which is secured to the lower portion 26 .
- the base portion 28 is slideably received within the swivel tube 20 , also labeled as an adjustment housing or second housing, and has a plurality of teeth 34 thereon, as best shown in FIG. 2.
- the swivel tube 20 supports a movable lock 36 for engaging the teeth 34 and preventing axial movement of the interlock housing 24 relative to the swivel tube 20 .
- the swivel tube 20 , base portion 28 , and lock 36 cooperate to adjust the tension in the cable assembly 11 once it has been installed in the vehicle.
- the terminal assembly 15 which has an aperture 37 , is at least partially disposed within the interlock housing 24 .
- the terminal assembly 15 is formed by a metal shaft 38 that is secured to the core element 14 with a polymeric material 40 molded onto the portion of the core element 14 .
- the polymeric material 40 defines the aperture 37 , which is preferably in the shape of an elongated recess.
- An interlock device such as a solenoid, generally shown at 46 in FIG. 4, is disposed within the interlock housing 24 .
- the interlock device 46 has an armature pin 48 transverse to the aperture 37 for coacting with the aperture 37 and preventing axial movement of the core element 14 .
- the armature pin 48 is received in the aperture 37 to prevent axial movement of the core element 14 to prevent the transmission from being shifted.
- the core element 14 includes a park position in which the armature pin 48 aligns with the aperture 37 . Since the cable assembly 11 is adjusted upon installation into the vehicle, the core element 14 and aperture 37 tends to shift relative to the armature pin 48 thereby creating a misalignment.
- the present invention incorporates a removable clip 50 to preserve the alignment between the aperture 37 and armature pin 48 after installation.
- the removable clip 50 retains the core element 14 in the park position.
- the clip 50 is interposed between the interlock housing 24 and the terminal assembly 15 to prevent relative movement and to locate the aperture 37 relative to the armature pin 48 .
- the removable clip 50 comprises a U-shaped member defining a handle 52 and opposing legs 54 and 56 , or first and second portions, depending downwardly form the handle 52 with the legs 54 , 56 having receptacles 58 .
- the interlock housing 24 and the terminal assembly 15 include tabs 60 that are received by the receptacles 58 .
- the receptacle 58 securely engaging the tabs 60 so that the interlock housing 24 and terminal assembly 15 are not permitted to move relative to one another during installation.
- the cable assemblies 11 are shipped to the assembly plant with the locks 36 in the unlocked position so that the base portion 28 may move relative to the swivel tube 20 . Further, the cable assemblies 11 are shipped with the removable clip 50 secured to the interlock housing 24 and the terminal assembly 15 to maintain alignment of the aperture 37 with the armature pin 48 .
- the first end 18 is secured to the transmission and the second end 16 is secured to the shifter.
- the core element 14 may move up to 15 mm within the conduit during installation.
- the tension is then adjusted in the cable assembly 11 by adjusting the interlock 24 and second 20 housings relative to one another.
- the movable lock 36 is depressed to engage the teeth 34 , as shown in FIG. 5, thereby locking the interlock 24 and second 20 housings together.
- the clip 50 may be removed. By using the clip during installation, proper alignment of the aperture 37 and armature in 48 in the park position is ensured.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Flexible Shafts (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a shifter cable assembly having an interlock device integral therewith, and more specifically, to an adjustment assembly which ensures proper operation of the interlock device following installation of the cable assembly into the vehicle.
- 2. Description of the Prior Art
- Interlock devices are incorporated into vehicle control mechanisms to prevent the transmission from being shifted out of the park position unless the brake pedal is depressed. Typically, the cable assembly includes a conduit with a core element movably disposed therein. One end of the core element is secured to the transmission and the other end of the core element is secured to the shifter, such as a column shift lever. The column shift lever transmits movement to the transmission through the core element. One type of interlock device operates by engaging an element associated with the core element to prevent its movement unless the brake pedal is depressed. This is achieved by utilizing a solenoid that is actuated by a brake pedal signal. It is desirable to provide an interlock device that is integral with the cable assembly to reduce the number of components required for the interlock system. To this end, interlock devices have been developed that are integral with the cable assembly and which utilize a pin transverse to an aperture associated with the core element. The pin engages the aperture to prevent its movement. Once such device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,647,818 issued on Jul. 15, 1997 to Moody.
- The alignment of the pin and aperture is critical to ensure proper operation of the interlock device. During installation of the cable assembly into the vehicle, the core element must be moved within the conduit to connect the ends of the cable assembly to their respective shifter components. As a result, the position of the aperture may change slightly with respect to the pin and cause the interlock device to operate improperly. Other interlock devices that are non-integral with the cable assembly do not present this alignment problem because the brackets that are used to support the components may align the features. Therefore, what is needed is an adjustment assembly to ensure proper operation of the integral shifter cable interlock after installation of the cable assembly into the vehicle.
- The present invention provides a cable assembly having a conduit defining an axis. A core element is disposed within the conduit and is movable along the axis. A terminal assembly is secured to a portion of the core element and has an end connector. An interlock device is disposed adjacent the terminal assembly and is movable between a release position allowing relative movement between the terminal assembly and the interlock device and an engaged position preventing the relative movement between the terminal assembly and the interlock device. A base portion extends from the interlock device. An adjustment housing is at least partially disposed about the base portion for selectively allowing axial adjustment of the base portion and the interlock device relative to the adjustment housing to tension the core element. A movable lock is slideably supported by the adjustment housing and movable between an engaged position interconnecting the adjustment housing to the base portion to define a fixed position of the interlock device relative to the adjustment housing, and a disengaged position allowing relative movement between the adjustment housing and the base portion for providing the axial adjustment and the tensioning of the core element, an adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock.
- Accordingly, the present invention provides a cable assembly that includes both an interlock device used in automatic transmissions and an adjustment device for adjusting the tension in the cable. This combination of features is particularly advantageous in that the interlock device and adjustment device are mounted to a common cable assembly.
- Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustment assembly of the present invention on for an integral shifter cable interlock;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the present invention similar to FIG. 1 with a portion of an interlock housing and swivel tube removed;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the present invention similar to FIG. 2 with another portion of the interlock housing removed;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines5-5 in FIG. 1; and
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the present invention similar to FIG. 1 in an installed position.
- Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, an adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock is generally shown at10 in FIG. 1. The assembly 10 includes a cable assembly, generally shown at 11, having a
conduit 12 defining an axis A and acore element 14 is disposed within theconduit 12 which is movable along the axis A. Aterminal assembly 15 is secured to a portion of thecore element 14. Theterminal assembly 15 further includes anend connector 16 adapted for connection to a shifter (not shown), such as a column shifter. Oneend 18 of thecore element 14 is secured to the transmission, as is known in the art, and the other end of thecore element 14, which has theterminal assembly 15, is secured by theend connector 16 to the shifter, in a manner known in the art. The column shift lever transmits movement to the transmission through thecore element 14. - The cable assembly11 includes a
swivel tube 20 that is pivotally connected to amounting member 22. Themounting member 22 is connected to a support member (not shown) in a vehicle for supporting the cable assembly 11. Theswivel tube 20 permits the end of the cable assembly 11 to be positioned for attachment to the shifter. An interlock housing, generally shown at 24, is supported on the cable assembly 11 and includes alower portion 26 having abase portion 28 and anupper portion 30 which is secured to thelower portion 26. Thebase portion 28 is slideably received within theswivel tube 20, also labeled as an adjustment housing or second housing, and has a plurality ofteeth 34 thereon, as best shown in FIG. 2. Theswivel tube 20 supports amovable lock 36 for engaging theteeth 34 and preventing axial movement of theinterlock housing 24 relative to theswivel tube 20. Theswivel tube 20,base portion 28, and lock 36 cooperate to adjust the tension in the cable assembly 11 once it has been installed in the vehicle. - Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the
terminal assembly 15, which has anaperture 37, is at least partially disposed within theinterlock housing 24. Theterminal assembly 15 is formed by ametal shaft 38 that is secured to thecore element 14 with apolymeric material 40 molded onto the portion of thecore element 14. Thepolymeric material 40 defines theaperture 37, which is preferably in the shape of an elongated recess. - An interlock device such as a solenoid, generally shown at46 in FIG. 4, is disposed within the
interlock housing 24. Theinterlock device 46 has anarmature pin 48 transverse to theaperture 37 for coacting with theaperture 37 and preventing axial movement of thecore element 14. Said another way, thearmature pin 48 is received in theaperture 37 to prevent axial movement of thecore element 14 to prevent the transmission from being shifted. To this end, thecore element 14 includes a park position in which thearmature pin 48 aligns with theaperture 37. Since the cable assembly 11 is adjusted upon installation into the vehicle, thecore element 14 andaperture 37 tends to shift relative to thearmature pin 48 thereby creating a misalignment. To prevent this condition, the present invention incorporates aremovable clip 50 to preserve the alignment between theaperture 37 andarmature pin 48 after installation. - The
removable clip 50 retains thecore element 14 in the park position. Theclip 50 is interposed between theinterlock housing 24 and theterminal assembly 15 to prevent relative movement and to locate theaperture 37 relative to thearmature pin 48. Theremovable clip 50 comprises a U-shaped member defining a handle 52 and opposinglegs legs receptacles 58. Theinterlock housing 24 and theterminal assembly 15 includetabs 60 that are received by thereceptacles 58. Thereceptacle 58 securely engaging thetabs 60 so that theinterlock housing 24 andterminal assembly 15 are not permitted to move relative to one another during installation. - The cable assemblies11 are shipped to the assembly plant with the
locks 36 in the unlocked position so that thebase portion 28 may move relative to theswivel tube 20. Further, the cable assemblies 11 are shipped with theremovable clip 50 secured to theinterlock housing 24 and theterminal assembly 15 to maintain alignment of theaperture 37 with thearmature pin 48. During installation, thefirst end 18 is secured to the transmission and thesecond end 16 is secured to the shifter. Thecore element 14 may move up to 15 mm within the conduit during installation. The tension is then adjusted in the cable assembly 11 by adjusting theinterlock 24 and second 20 housings relative to one another. Themovable lock 36 is depressed to engage theteeth 34, as shown in FIG. 5, thereby locking theinterlock 24 and second 20 housings together. Once the cable assembly 11 has been properly installed and adjusted theclip 50 may be removed. By using the clip during installation, proper alignment of theaperture 37 and armature in 48 in the park position is ensured. - 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.
- Obviously, 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.
Claims (16)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/886,630 US6435056B2 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 2001-06-21 | Cable assembly having an interlocking device and an adjustment device |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/443,792 US6282979B1 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 1999-11-19 | Adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock |
US09/886,630 US6435056B2 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 2001-06-21 | Cable assembly having an interlocking device and an adjustment device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/443,792 Division US6282979B1 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 1999-11-19 | Adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20010029804A1 true US20010029804A1 (en) | 2001-10-18 |
US6435056B2 US6435056B2 (en) | 2002-08-20 |
Family
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Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/443,792 Expired - Lifetime US6282979B1 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 1999-11-19 | Adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock |
US09/886,630 Expired - Fee Related US6435056B2 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 2001-06-21 | Cable assembly having an interlocking device and an adjustment device |
US09/886,631 Expired - Fee Related US6367142B2 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 2001-06-21 | method of installing a cable assembly having a removable clip |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/443,792 Expired - Lifetime US6282979B1 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 1999-11-19 | Adjustment assembly for an integral shifter cable interlock |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/886,631 Expired - Fee Related US6367142B2 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 2001-06-21 | method of installing a cable assembly having a removable clip |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (3) | US6282979B1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090056099A1 (en) * | 2007-09-04 | 2009-03-05 | Donald Gene Gordy | Method of manufacture for a push-pull cable assembly |
US20090107286A1 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2009-04-30 | Gregory Phillip Ruhlander | Snap-together, two-piece guide tube for a push-pull cable assembly |
US20100064840A1 (en) * | 2007-09-04 | 2010-03-18 | Donald Gene Gordy | Snap-over guide tube for a push-pull cable assembly |
Families Citing this family (13)
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US6825417B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2004-11-30 | Daimlerchrysler Corporation | Slide and snap cable end fitting |
US7472627B2 (en) * | 2004-10-19 | 2009-01-06 | Generals Motors Corporation | Automatic transmission mid adjust linkage |
CN101137307B (en) * | 2005-03-01 | 2013-05-29 | 霍沃思公司 | Tension adjustment mechanism for a chair |
CA2600310C (en) * | 2005-03-01 | 2014-07-08 | Haworth, Inc. | Tilt control mechanism for a chair |
US20060236804A1 (en) * | 2005-04-26 | 2006-10-26 | Ruhlander Gregory P | Shifter base with integrated receptacle for cable adjust assembly |
US7568405B2 (en) * | 2005-04-26 | 2009-08-04 | Dura Global Technologies, Inc. | Gear driven parklock assembly with terminal snap-fit housing |
US7270350B2 (en) * | 2005-06-03 | 2007-09-18 | Gerald Cronley | Quick-connecting coupler for hoses, pipes and faucets |
US20070238334A1 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2007-10-11 | Jaume Prat Terradas | Sheath Terminal for Driving Cables |
US7597027B2 (en) * | 2007-07-19 | 2009-10-06 | Young Dae Kwon | Isolator for a motion transmitting remote control assembly |
DE112008003076B4 (en) * | 2007-11-13 | 2019-06-19 | Nsk Ltd. | steering device |
GB0919682D0 (en) * | 2009-11-11 | 2009-12-23 | Hi Lex Cable System Company Ltd | Damper |
US9651138B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2017-05-16 | Mtd Products Inc. | Speed control assembly for a self-propelled walk-behind lawn mower |
DE102013224429A1 (en) * | 2013-11-28 | 2015-05-28 | Zf Friedrichshafen Ag | Cable, transmission system and method of making a cable |
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DE3763227D1 (en) * | 1986-04-28 | 1990-07-19 | Teleflex Inc | REMOTE CONTROL. |
US4987968A (en) | 1988-08-19 | 1991-01-29 | Lectron Products, Inc. | In-line solenoid transmission interlock device |
US5076114A (en) | 1990-05-14 | 1991-12-31 | Pontiac Coil Inc. | Electromagnetic interlock |
US5176231A (en) | 1991-09-16 | 1993-01-05 | Pontiac Coil, Inc. | Interlock device having reduced preload binding |
US5199321A (en) * | 1992-07-07 | 1993-04-06 | Teleflex Incorporated | Adjustable terminal having a cam surface actuator |
US5383377A (en) * | 1993-08-25 | 1995-01-24 | Teleflex Incorporated | Rotatable isolated end fitting |
US5584212A (en) * | 1994-08-08 | 1996-12-17 | Hi-Lex Corporation | Cable end fitting with simplified assembly |
US5489246A (en) | 1994-08-29 | 1996-02-06 | Pontiac Coil, Inc. | Electronic park lock |
US5598743A (en) * | 1995-03-24 | 1997-02-04 | Hi-Lex Corporation | Core wire length adjuster |
US5647818A (en) | 1995-03-27 | 1997-07-15 | Pontiac Coil, Inc. | Shifter interlock for an automatic transmission |
US5588334A (en) * | 1995-04-27 | 1996-12-31 | General Motors Corporation | Cable core adjuster with lock members |
US5522277A (en) | 1995-06-12 | 1996-06-04 | Carter Automotive Company, Inc. | Electrically-operated latch |
US5655415A (en) * | 1995-08-02 | 1997-08-12 | Nagle Industries, Inc. | Shift column cable assembly |
US5709132A (en) * | 1996-07-22 | 1998-01-20 | Telefex Incorporated | Cable length adjustment mechanism |
US5921143A (en) * | 1997-07-12 | 1999-07-13 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Coupling device for a sheathed cable and methods of constructing and utilizing same |
US5934150A (en) * | 1998-01-05 | 1999-08-10 | Teleflex Incorporated | Remote control assembly having a locking terminal |
US5937705A (en) * | 1998-04-08 | 1999-08-17 | Flex Technologies, Inc. | Push-pull control cable assembly with quick-release terminal fittings therefor |
-
1999
- 1999-11-19 US US09/443,792 patent/US6282979B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2001
- 2001-06-21 US US09/886,630 patent/US6435056B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2001-06-21 US US09/886,631 patent/US6367142B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090056099A1 (en) * | 2007-09-04 | 2009-03-05 | Donald Gene Gordy | Method of manufacture for a push-pull cable assembly |
US20100064840A1 (en) * | 2007-09-04 | 2010-03-18 | Donald Gene Gordy | Snap-over guide tube for a push-pull cable assembly |
US7866024B2 (en) * | 2007-09-04 | 2011-01-11 | Dura Global Technologies, Llc | Method of manufacture for a push-pull cable assembly |
US20090107286A1 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2009-04-30 | Gregory Phillip Ruhlander | Snap-together, two-piece guide tube for a push-pull cable assembly |
US8245379B2 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2012-08-21 | Dura Global Technologies, Llc | Snap-together, two-piece guide tube for a push-pull cable assembly |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6435056B2 (en) | 2002-08-20 |
US6367142B2 (en) | 2002-04-09 |
US20010029658A1 (en) | 2001-10-18 |
US6282979B1 (en) | 2001-09-04 |
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Legal Events
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