DESC:STAR GEAR SHIFT SYSTEM FOR A GEARED ELECTRIC VEHICLE
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202421073618 filed on 30/09/2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a transmission unit. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a star gear for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit.
BACKGROUND
Generally, the gear shift mechanism operates by utilizing a lever or actuator that engages with a series of indexed positions, allowing the driver to select different gears. As the lever is moved, the level interacts with a series of slots, which sequentially align the gear selector with the corresponding gear position. This ensures smooth and precise engagement of gears while maintaining mechanical alignment and control throughout the shifting process.
The conventional gear shifting systems often relied on designs that lacked the precision and efficiency provided by modern indexing techniques. In conventional gear shift systems, gear selectors operated using lever mechanisms or cable linkages that required manual intervention to engage gears, leading to a less intuitive experience for drivers. The above-mentioned systems are prone to misalignment, making the gears difficult to achieve accurate gear positioning and results in unintentional shifts or difficulty in finding the right gear engagement. Further, the absence of defined angular movements between gear positions often caused confusion in terms of gear shifting, especially during rapid or sequential gear shifts, resulting in delays and potential performance issues. Furthermore, the lack of a systematic approach to gear indexing also contributed to increased wear and tear on gear components, as gears may be engaged abruptly, which significantly leads to mechanical stress and decreased durability. Overall, the gear shifting experience with traditional gear shifting systems characterized by lower precision, greater complexity in operation, and a higher chance of mechanical failure which prompting the need for more advanced solutions that may enhance control and reliability in gear engagement.
Therefore, there exists a need for an improved gear shifting mechanism and/or components to overcome the problems associated as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a star gear for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a star gear for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit, the star gear comprising:
- a central rotary body comprising a first surface and a second surface; and
- a plurality of notches comprising arrow-head notches and a concave notch,
wherein the arrow-head notches correspond to higher gear positions and the concave notch corresponds to a neutral gear position.
The present disclosure provides the star gear for the gear shifting mechanism of the transmission unit. The star gear, as disclosed in the present disclosure, offers advantages in terms of improved transmission performance, enhanced gear shift precision, and increased operational reliability of the gear shifting mechanism. Beneficially, the star gear ensures intuitive and accurate differentiation between forward gear positions and the neutral position. Further, the star gear reduces the likelihood of false neutral engagement and improves rider or driver feedback during gear shifting. Furthermore, the star gear significantly provides secure locking at each gear position, thereby ensures the consistent and stable gear holding under dynamic load conditions. Moreover, the star gear offers ease of integration into existing transmission units, improving modularity and assembly efficiency. Overall, the star gear enhances shift accuracy, mechanical robustness, and operator control, thereby making the transmission unit highly suitable for use in vehicles.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1a and 1b illustrate a perspective view of a star gear for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a star gear for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the term “star gear” refers to a rotatable component comprising a central rotary body having a plurality of notches, projections, or lobes formed along the peripheral surface. Each notch or projection corresponds to a discrete gear position. The star gear is configured to rotate stepwise about the rotational axis when actuated by a gear shift mechanism, such as a ratchet or selector actuator, and is further configured to interact with a detent mechanism for securing the star gear in defined rotational positions to enable sequential gear selection within a transmission system.
As used herein, the terms “gear sifting mechanism”, “gear shift mechanism”, “gear shifter” and “shifting mechanism” are used interchangeably and refer to a mechanical assembly configured to enable the selection and engagement of different gear ratios within a transmission unit. The gear shifting mechanism comprising one or more components such as a shift lever, ratchet, selector shaft or drum, shift forks, and indexing devices, operable to transmit an input from a user or actuator into controlled movement of gear elements to achieve a desired gear position.
As used herein, the terms “transmission unit” and “transmission system” are used interchangeably and refer to a mechanical assembly configured to receive input torque from a power source and transmit the torque to an output shaft at variable speed and/or torque levels. The transmission unit comprising one or more gear elements, selector mechanisms, and associated components for enabling selective engagement of gear ratios to control vehicle propulsion or mechanical output. Further, the transmission unit may include a clutch assembly.
As used herein, the terms “central rotary body”, “central body”, and “rotary body” are used interchangeably and refer to a main structural component of a rotatable element, such as the star gear. The central rotary body is configured to rotate about a predefined rotational axis, and comprising one or more functional surfaces or features including, but not limited to, a peripheral surface for supporting gear selection notches, a cavity for coaxial mounting on a shaft or drum, and interfaces for engagement with actuating and locking mechanisms within a gear shifting assembly.
As used herein, the term “first surface” refers to a designated side or face of the central rotary body of the star gear. The first surface is configured to support or interface with functional features such as actuation elements, pins, or engagement profiles, and oriented to interact with a shift actuator or a ratchet mechanism during gear selection operations.
As used herein, the term “second surface” refers to a surface of the central rotary body that is opposite to or distinct from a first surface. The second surface is configured to accommodate one or more functional features such as grooves, detents, or engagement interfaces for interacting with components of a gear shifting mechanism, such as a detent mechanism or return spring assembly.
As used herein, the terms “plurality of notches” and “notches” are used interchangeably and refer to a two or more recessed features or indentations formed along the peripheral surface of the star gear. Each notch is configured to correspond to a distinct gear position in a transmission system, and adapted to engage with a detent mechanism to provide indexed rotational positions for gear selection. The plurality of notches includes arrow-head notches and a concave notch.
As used herein, the term “arrow-head notch(es)” refers to a type of angular recess or indentation formed on the peripheral surface the star gear. The notches having a geometry resembling the shape of an arrow-head configured to define forward gear positions in a gear shifting mechanism.
As used herein, the term “concave notch” refers to a recessed or inwardly curved indentation formed along the peripheral surface of a component, such as a star gear. The geometry of the concave notch comprises curves inward relative to the outer profile of the component, and is configured to receive a detent element to define a specific functional position, such as a neutral gear position in a gear shifting mechanism.
As used herein, the terms “higher gear position”, “higher gear”, “forward gear”, and “forward gear positions” are used interchangeably and refer to a gear state in a transmission system that provides a greater output speed and/or reduced torque relative to a lower gear position, typically engaged after a lower or initial gear during sequential gear shifting. The higher gear position is configured to facilitate increased vehicle speed at reduced engine or motor load. Particularly, in the star gear, any gear engaged subsequent to the first gear position in a forward gear sequence, such as second, third, fourth gears and beyond. The forward gear positions are configured to provide progressively higher speed output with correspondingly lower torque multiplication, suitable for sustained driving conditions or improved efficiency.
As used herein, the terms “neutral gear position”, “neutral position”, and “neutral gear” are used interchangeably and refer to a predefined gear state in a transmission system wherein no torque is transmitted from the input shaft to the output shaft, such that the rotational motion of the input does not result in propulsion or mechanical engagement of the drivetrain. Particularly in star gear, the neutral gear position corresponds to a mechanical configuration in which the transmission disengages the drive gears, allowing the engine or motor to run without transferring power to the wheels or driven components. The neutral gear position is typically defined by a distinct notch i.e. concave notch on the gear selection component, such as the star gear, and is often positioned between two adjacent forward gear positions to facilitate ease of shifting.
As used herein, the term “cavity” refers to a recessed, hollowed, or open region formed within a component. The cavity is configured to receive, house, or accommodate another part or element. The cavity is centrally located within a rotary body and is configured for coaxial mounting of a transmission component, such as a shift drum, to ensure aligned rotational movement and secure mechanical coupling.
As used herein, the term “shift drum” refer to a cylindrical or drum-shaped rotary component of a gear shifting mechanism. The shift drum is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis. The surface of the shift drum comprising one or more cam tracks or guide paths that interact with shift forks or selector arms to facilitate axial displacement of gear elements for engaging or disengaging different gear ratios in a transmission system. The shift drum is mechanically linked to a gear selector mechanism such as a star gear, ratchet mechanism, or actuator arm, and rotates stepwise in response to user input (e.g., gear lever movement). The rotation of the shift drum causes shift forks to slide along the gearbox shaft, thereby selecting the desired gear position. The cam tracks on the shift drum are typically machined or formed to define precise shifting sequences corresponding to neutral, forward, or reverse gear positions.
As used herein, the terms “plurality of pins” and “pin(s)” are used interchangeably and refer to two or more projecting elements disposed on a surface of a component, such as the central rotary body of the star gear. The plurality of pins are configured to interact with a corresponding shift actuator or mechanism to enable actuation, resetting, or positional indexing of the component during operation of the gear shifting system. The plurality of pins may be integrally formed or mounted on the surface of the component, and are arranged to engage with one or more contact elements of a shift actuator. Such interaction facilitates the transmission of input force or motion from the actuator to the star gear, thereby enabling the controlled rotation during sequential gear shifting operations.
As used herein, the term “shift actuator” refers to a mechanical, electromechanical, or hydraulic component configured to initiate or control the movement of a gear shifting mechanism. The shift actuator transmits an actuation force or displacement to the gear selector component, such as the star gear, selector drum, or shift fork, to effect a change in gear position within a transmission system. The shift actuator may include a lever, pawl, solenoid, servo motor, cam mechanism, or similar element capable of imparting linear or rotary motion. In a manual or semi-automatic transmission system, the shift actuator interacts with gear selection components to enable sequential or non-sequential shifting between gear states, including neutral and forward and/or reverse positions.
As used herein, the terms “pair of grooves” and “groove(s)” are used interchangeably and refer to two spaced-apart recessed features or channels formed on a surface of a component, such as the second surface of a central rotary body. The grooves are configured to receive and interact with the detent mechanism for enabling positional locking and controlled indexing of the component during rotational movement.
As used herein, the term “detent mechanism” refers to a mechanical assembly comprising at least one spring-biased element, such as a roller, ball, or pin, configured to engage with corresponding grooves, notches, or recesses on a rotatable or movable component, thereby enabling discrete positioning, resisting unintended movement, and providing positional locking or tactile feedback during operation of a gear shifting or indexing system.
As used herein, the term “discrete rotational position(s)” refers to a predetermined angular positions around a rotational axis at which a rotatable component, such as a star gear or selector drum. The discrete rotational positions are configured to be selectively and repeatably held or locked, such that each position corresponds to a specific functional state, for example, a gear position in a transmission mechanism.
As used herein, the term “angular displacement” refers to the angular distance through which a component, such as a gear, shaft, or rotary element, rotates about the axis between two defined positions, typically measured in degrees or radians, and indicative of the relative positional change between sequential operational states of the component.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a star gear for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit, the star gear comprising:
- a central rotary body comprising a first surface and a second surface; and
- a plurality of notches comprising arrow-head notches and a concave notch,
wherein the arrow-head notches correspond to higher gear positions and the concave notch corresponds to a neutral gear position.
Figure 1a and 1b, in accordance with an embodiment describes a star gear 100 for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit (not shown in Figure). The star gear 100 comprising a central rotary body 102 and a plurality of notches 108. The central rotary body 102 comprising a first surface 104 and a second surface 106. Further, the plurality of notches 108 comprising arrow-head notches 110 and a concave notch 112. The arrow-head notches 110 correspond to higher gear positions and the concave notch 112 corresponds to a neutral gear position.
In an embodiment, the central rotary body 102 comprises a cavity 114 may be configured for coaxial mounting of a shift drum of the transmission unit. The coaxial configuration ensures the rotational axis of the star gear 100 aligns with the shift drum, thereby enabling smooth, synchronized movement during gear shifting operations. The star gear 100 is mounted directly over the shift drum such that the rotary motion of the shift drum results in the indexing of the star gear 100 through discrete angular positions, each corresponding to a gear selection. The cavity 114 is dimensioned and shaped to receive a portion of the shift drum via press fit, keyed engagement, or other mechanical coupling to ensure precise alignment and torque transfer. Beneficially, the coaxial arrangement between the rotational axis of the star gear 100 and the shift drum ensures the precise alignment, resulting in accurate indexing of the gear positions during operation. Further, the cavity 114 and the coaxial mounting of the shift drum facilitates the synchronized movement, thereby reducing the chances of misalignment, gear slippage, or shift delays. Furthermore, the aligning of the rotational axis of the star gear 100 with the shift drum contributes to a more compact design, thereby minimizing space requirements within the transmission unit. Additionally, the direct mounting of the shift drum via cavity 114 reduces the need for auxiliary alignment components, thereby simplifying the assembly and maintenance.
In an embodiment, the first surface 104 comprises a plurality of pins 116 may be configured for enabling interaction with a shift actuator for sequential shifting and resetting. The plurality of pins 116 are positioned on the first surface in a manner that enables mechanical interaction with the shift actuator. Further, during operation, when the shift actuator is actuated either manually or through an automated mechanism, the shift actuator engages with the plurality of pins 116 to rotate the star gear 100 incrementally. Further, the interaction between the plurality of pins 116 and the shift actuator facilitates sequential gear shifting. For instance, each actuation step corresponds to a transition from one gear position to the next, such as from neutral gear to first gear or from one forward gear to another. Furthermore, the arrangement of the plurality of pins 116 also supports the resetting function, thus enabling the actuator to return to the initial position upon completion of each shift cycle. Beneficially, the inclusion of the plurality of pins 116 with the shift actuator enhances accuracy of the mechanical engagement between the star gear 100 and the shift actuator, thereby enabling precise and reliable gear transitions. Moreover, the dedicated resetting function improves operational repeatability and prevents misalignment during continuous gear shifting cycles.
In an embodiment, the second surface 106 comprises a pair of grooves 118 may be configured for receiving a detent mechanism for securely locking the star gear 100 in discrete rotational positions during gear selection. The detent mechanism is designed to cooperate with the pair of grooves 118 in such a manner that the detent mechanism securely locks the star gear 100 into discrete rotational positions during gear selection. The pair of grooves 118 may be formed as recessed features or slots to align with engagement elements. The engagement elements may include, but not limited to, spring-loaded balls, pins, rollers, and so forth, of the detent mechanism. Further, when the star gear 100 is rotated by the shifting actuator, the detent elements engage with the pair of grooves 118, thereby generating a positive feedback or resistance at predetermined angular positions, each corresponding to a specific gear stage, such as neutral, first gear, second gear, and so forth. Beneficially, the pair of groove 118 enhances the positional stability of the star gear 100 during gear shifts by mechanically locking the gear in discrete rotational positions, thereby minimizing the unintentional slippage or misalignment. Furthermore, the detent-based engagement provides tactile feedback to the shifting mechanism, thereby allowing the smoother transitions and improved driver or actuator control. Moreover, by accurately defining angular stops through detent engagement, the star gear 100 reduces the gear hunting and potential wear on shifting components, thereby improving the durability and reliability of the transmission unit.
In an embodiment, each notch of the plurality of notches 108 may represent a distinct gear position. The plurality of notches 108 comprises the arrow-head notches 110 representing forward or higher gear positions, and the concave notch 112 corresponding to the neutral gear position. Specifically, each notch of the plurality of notches 108 is angularly spaced to allow discrete rotational indexing of the star gear 100, enabling the selector mechanism or shift actuator to identify and align precisely with the desired gear position. Further, the arrangement of the plurality of notches 108 ensuring every indexed movement of the central rotary body 102, thereby the transmission system is shifted into a unique and specific gear. Beneficially, the plurality of notches 108 ensures the unambiguous identification of gear states, thereby reducing the likelihood of misalignment or accidental engagement of multiple gears. Furthermore, the discrete gear positioning enhances the accuracy of gear selection and facilitates smoother transitions between gears. Moreover, the unique geometry and spacing of the plurality of notches 108 contribute to improved synchronization with the detent mechanisms, thereby enhancing mechanical stability and tactile feedback during gear shifts.
In an embodiment, the plurality of notches 108 may be located along a circumferential surface of the central rotary body 102, and may be configured to define sequential gear positions, including the neutral position, a first gear position and a plurality of higher gear positions. The plurality of notches comprises the concave notch 112 representing the neutral gear position, the first arrow-head notch 110 corresponding to the first gear position, and additional arrow-head notches representing higher gear positions including, but not limited to, a second, third, fourth gear, and so forth. The arrangement of the plurality of notches 108 along the circumference ensuring the central rotary body 102 rotates about the rotational axis. Further, the detent mechanism engages selectively with each notch of the plurality of notches 108, thereby enabling accurate and stable transition between gear positions during operation. Beneficially, the accurate positioning of the plurality of notches 108 ensures precise indexing and alignment of gear positions, thereby enhances the accuracy and responsiveness of the gear shifting mechanism. Furthermore, the discrete engagement with the each notch significantly reduces the likelihood of false or incomplete gear shifts, contributing to improved reliability and safety of the transmission system. Additionally, by clearly defining the neutral position and multiple forward gear positions through distinctive notch geometries, the star gear 100 provides intuitive and fail-safe operation for the rider or user.
In an embodiment, an angular displacement between the consecutive arrow-head notches 110 may be 72 degrees. The small deviation of ±2 degrees may occur in the angular displacement between the consecutive arrow-head notches 110. The angular configuration ensures uniform spacing between the gear positions, allowing the gear shifting mechanism to achieve consistent and predictable movement during gear selection. Further, the spacing between the consecutive notches also aligns with the mechanical requirements of the associated shift actuator, thereby enabling the star gear 100 to index precisely by 72 degrees for each gear transition. Beneficially, the specific angular displacement of 72 degrees facilitate the uniform indexing, thereby enhances the repeatability and accuracy of gear transitions, while reducing the risk of misalignment or gear slippage. Furthermore, the spacing between the consecutive notches simplifies the design of the detent engagement mechanism, as each gear position is separated by a consistent angular interval, thereby improving the mechanical symmetry and reducing part complexity.
In an embodiment, the angular displacement between the arrow-head notch 110 and the concave notch 112 may be 36 degrees. The small deviation of ±2 degrees may occur in the angular displacement between the arrow-head notch 110 and the concave notch 112. The defined angular displacement of 36 degrees is implemented by designing the plurality of notches 108 at predetermined angular intervals around the central axis of the star gear 100, thereby ensuring each rotational shift of 36 degrees results in the transition between neutral and the first gear, or vice versa. The mechanical indexing between the neutral gear position and forward gear position may cooperate with the detent mechanism for locking the gear at the defined gear positions during operation. Beneficially, the precise angular interval allows for consistent and predictable engagement between the neutral and the first gear position, thereby reducing the chances of misalignment or incomplete gear engagement. Furthermore, the angular displacement of 36 degree contributes to smoother operation of the gear selection mechanism by minimizing abrupt transitions or excessive rotation. Further, the defined spacing between plurality of notches 108 enhances mechanical feedback and positional stability, particularly when used with the detent locking mechanism.
In an exemplary embodiment, the star gear 100 integrated into a manual transmission mechanism of a two-wheeled vehicle. The star gear 100 comprising the central rotary body 102 with the coaxial cavity 114 configured for mounting onto the cam drum of the transmission unit. The plurality of notches 108 are precisely formed along the circumferential surface of the rotary body 102 comprising arrow-head shaped notches 110 corresponding to forward gear positions and the concave notch 112 representing the neutral gear position. During operation, as the rider actuates the gear shift lever, the star gear 100 rotates incrementally, allowing the detent mechanism to engage each notch of the plurality of notches 108 sequentially. The engagement between the detent mechanism and the notch securely locks the star gear 100 in discrete angular positions, thereby enabling controlled gear shifting between neutral, first, and higher gears. The configuration ensures reliable indexing, consistent performance, and mechanical stability of the shifting mechanism, particularly under varying load and road conditions.
In an embodiment, the star gear 100 for the gear shifting mechanism of the transmission unit. The star gear 100 comprising the central rotary body 102 and the plurality of notches 108. The central rotary body 102 comprising the first surface 104 and the second surface 106. Further, the plurality of notches 108 comprising arrow-head notches 110 and the concave notch 112. The arrow-head notches 110 correspond to higher gear positions and the concave notch 112 corresponds to the neutral gear position. Further, the central rotary body 102 comprises the cavity 114 is configured for coaxial mounting of the shift drum of the transmission unit. Furthermore, the first surface 104 comprises the plurality of pins 116 configured for enabling interaction with a shift actuator for sequential shifting and resetting. Furthermore, the second surface 106 comprises the pair of grooves 118 configured for receiving the detent mechanism for securely locking the star gear 100 in discrete rotational positions during gear selection. Furthermore, each notch of the plurality of notches 108 represent the distinct gear position. Moreover, the plurality of notches 108 located along the circumferential surface of the central rotary body 102, and configured to define sequential gear positions, including the neutral position, the first gear position and the plurality of higher gear positions. Moreover, the angular displacement between the consecutive arrow-head notches 110 is 72 degrees. Moreover, the angular displacement between the arrow-head notch and the concave notch 112 is 36 degrees.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A star gear (100) for a gear shifting mechanism of a transmission unit, the star gear (100) comprising:
- a central rotary body (102) comprising a first surface (104) and a second surface (106); and
- a plurality of notches (108) comprising arrow-head notches (110) and a concave notch (112),
wherein the arrow-head notches (110) correspond to higher gear positions and the concave notch (112) corresponds to a neutral gear position.
2. The star gear (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central rotary body (102) comprises a cavity (114) configured for coaxial mounting of a shift drum of the transmission unit.
3. The star gear (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first surface (104) comprises a plurality of pins (116) configured for enabling interaction with a shift actuator for sequential shifting and resetting.
4. The star gear (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second surface (106) comprises a pair of grooves (118) configured for receiving a detent mechanism for securely locking the star gear (100) in discrete rotational positions during gear selection.
5. The star gear (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each notch of the plurality of notches (108) represent a distinct gear position.
6. The star gear (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of notches (108) are located along a circumferential surface of the central rotary body (102), and are configured to define sequential gear positions, including the neutral position, a first gear position and a plurality of higher gear positions.
7. The star gear (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an angular displacement between the consecutive arrow-head notches (110) is 72 degrees.
8. The star gear as claimed in claim 1, wherein the angular displacement between the arrow-head notch and the concave notch (112) is 36 degrees.