US Patent:
20040226801, Nov 18, 2004
Inventors:
Robert De Jonge - West Olive MI, US
Dennis Hawver - Grand Haven MI, US
David Mitteer - Shelby MI, US
Edward Bratkowski - Washington Twp. MI, US
Eric Bryant - Nunica MI, US
Daniel Fisher - West Olive MI, US
Craig Wolffis - Grand Haven MI, US
Mark Moss - Grand Haven MI, US
International Classification:
B60K041/26
Abstract:
A shifter includes a powered pawl mechanism that selectively engages a shift gate. The powered pawl mechanism may include an electrically operated solenoid or the like, and may be mounted to the base of the shifter or to the shift lever. The pawl engages a shift gate that is mounted on the other of the shift lever and the base. A mechanical override may be utilized to disengage the pawl. The shifter includes an electrically operated push button or the like on the shift knob, and may utilize sensors that determine the shift lever position for controlling a transmission.