FOUR-POSITION SWITCH FOR SHIFT ASSIST SYSTEM

摘要

An operator input control system assists shifting between gears in a multi-speed transmission without clutching. A single switch allows an operator to provide an indication of the next gear that is to be selected, and further allows the operator the option of requesting torque elimination when moving the transmission to neutral. In one embodiment, the switch includes a rotatable switch body that is held in either an upshift or downshift intent position. The operator is able to move the switch a slight additional rotational amount beyond the intent position to request torque elimination. Once the operator releases the switch, it returns to the upshift or downshift indicated position. The inventive switch reduces the complexity of operator input in an overall system for assisting an operator in shifting transmission speeds without clutching.