The present disclosure generally relates to a field of electromechanical engineering.
Particularly but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a switch assembly. Further,
embodiments of the present disclosure relates to the switch assembly for use in vehicles for
shifting gears.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Transmission system is an integral part of a power train component, which enables controlled
application of power from a power source to wheels of the vehicles. Particularly, in vehicles
transmission systems play a vital role in controlling the power output to the wheels of the
vehicle. With the advent of industrial revolution and modernization, the transmission system
has evolved from simple gear arrangement to complex multi-clutch gear trains and further to
semi-automatic transmissions.
Automatic transmission also known as auto-transmission, is a transmission unit which
automatically selects gears based on driving conditions of the vehicle, without intervention of
the driver. The auto-transmission is controlled by vehicle ECU, wherein the ECU monitors
driving conditions from rpm of the engine to the traction in the wheels. The ECU is preconfigured
or pre-mapped to operate the vehicle on a particular gear of the transmission,
when the parameters monitored by the ECU are within a predetermined range. Thus, this type
of transmission enables the driver to drive the vehicle hassle-free even in traffic or in
highways.
Conventionally, in auto-transmission vehicles a gear knob is provided in the vehicle cabin
particularly on transmission tunnel of the vehicle. The gear knob will be configured with
indications to select gears or driving modes of the vehicle. Generally, the gear knobs are lever
or paddle type, which is selected based on feasibility of design and requirement. These gear
knobs are operated by the drivers for actuation of various operations in the vehicles such as
but not limiting to reverse gear engagement, drive gear engagement, parking, and neutral gear
engagement. Provision of such gear levers or paddle shifters consumes additional space in the
vehicle, as additional components are to be accommodated in the vehicle cabin.
In some of the modern vehicles, gear switches or rotary knobs are provided to actuate the
operations as stated above. Such gear switches or knobs will be interfaced with the ECU for
controlling the operation. Actuation of such knobs or switches will provide output signal to
3
the ECU or transmission control unit of the vehicle for driving the vehicle. Thus, in the gear
knob of the auto-transmission the driving modes such as drive, reverse and neutral are
configured. Upon selecting one of the drive modes by the gear knob, the ECU takes control
of the auto-transmission thereby enable the driver to drive the vehicle without further
intervention.
However, in the gear knobs, particularly in rotatable type of gear knobs a large clearance is
provisioned between the knob and a casing enclosing the electrical components. Due to this
clearance, foreign particles such as but not limited to water, air, moisture, enters into the gear
knob. The foreign particles accumulate on the electrical components, and reduce sensitivity,
precision and other electrical parameters. Also, accumulation of foreign particles would result
in harmonics in the signal output by the gear knob to the ECU or transmission control unit in
of the vehicle. This results in uneven control over the gear shifting in transmission of the
vehicle. Consequently, the electrical components malfunction, resulting in malfunction of the
transmission of the vehicle. This condition can also lead to fatal consequences to the driver of
the vehicle, due to failure in transmission of vehicle.
In the light of the foregoing discussion, there is need to develop an improved switch assembly
for transmission of a vehicle to overcome the limitations stated above.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
One or more shortcomings of the conventional switch assemblies are overcome by system
and method as claimed. Additional advantages are provided through the provision of system
and method as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are
realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of
the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed
disclosure.
In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a switch assembly for shifting
gears in a vehicle is disclosed. The switch assembly comprises a casing configurable in a
provision provided in a cabin of the vehicle. The casing comprises an annular space in an
inner circumference. At least one detent element is rotatably disposed in the annular space,
wherein the at least one detent element comprises at least one magnet. Further, the switch
assembly comprises a switching circuit mounted in the annular gap below the at least one
detent element, wherein the switching circuit comprises a plurality of hall-effect sensors. A
4
knob is rotatably mounted on an outer circumference of the casing and is connected to the at
least detent element. The knob is configured to selectively actuate each of the plurality of
hall-effect sensors through the detent element. The casing further comprises at least one
channel to drain foreign particles entering the switch assembly.
In an embodiment, a first cap is mounted on a first end of the casing. The first cap is
configured as an indication member and is provided with at least one indication symbol.
In an embodiment, the knob comprises a plurality of gear shift symbols, and the knob is
configured to rotate around the first cap.
In an embodiment, a second cap is mounted on a second end of the casing, wherein the
second cap is configured to support the switching circuit in the annular gap.
In one embodiment, the switching circuit is imprinted on a printed circuit board.
In an embodiment, the switching circuit is interfaced with transmission control unit of the
vehicle.
In an embodiment, the casing comprises at least one connecting element for mounting the
switch assembly in the provision provided in a cabin of the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the switch assembly comprises a third cap mounted on the knob. The third
cap is provided with a plurality of projections on outer circumference to facilitate grip to an
operator.
In an embodiment, the switching circuit comprises at least one light source for illuminating
the switch assembly.
In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of assembling a
switch assembly is disclosed. The method comprises acts of firstly configuring at least one
detent element in an annular space of the casing, wherein the at least one detent element
comprises at least one magnet and is rotatably disposed in the annular space. Secondly,
mounting a switching circuit in the annular space below the at least one detent element
wherein the switching circuit comprises a plurality of hall-effect sensors. Thirdly the method
comprises acts of mounting a knob rotatably on an outer circumference of the casing. Lastly,
connecting, the knob to the at least one detent element, wherein the knob is configured to
5
selectively actuate each of the plurality of hall effect sensors through the movement of the at
least one detent element.
It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above
may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments
may be combined together to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.
The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In
addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further
aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and
the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and
advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description
of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One
or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:
Figure 1 illustrates perspective view of the switching assembly in one exemplary embodiment
of the present disclosure.
Figure 2 illustrates exploded view of the switch assembly shown in figure 1.
Figure 3 illustrates sectional view of switch assembly along axis A-A as shown in figure 1.
Figure 4a illustrates top, front and section views of the switch assembly operated to neutral
condition according to some embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4b illustrates top, front and section views of the switch assembly operated to reverse
condition according to some embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4c illustrates top, front and section views of the switch assembly operated to drive
condition according to some embodiment of the present disclosure.
The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One
skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative
6
embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without
departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present
disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better
understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter
which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those
skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily
utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same
purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that
such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the
appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the disclosure,
as to its assembly, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood
from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying
figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the
purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of
the present disclosure.
Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a switch assembly for shifting gears in a
vehicle. The switch assembly is configured to drain the foreign particles entering the switch
assembly, thereby prevent malfunctioning of electrical components of the switch assembly
and consequently gear shifting of the vehicle.
To overcome one or more limitations stated in the background of the disclosure, a switch
assembly for shifting gears in a vehicle is provided. The switch assembly is configured to
prevent malfunctioning of electrical components in the switch assembly due to accumulation
of foreign particles such as but not limiting to air, dust, moisture, water. The switch assembly
comprises a casing configurable in a provision provided in cabin of the vehicle. The casing
comprises an annular space in its inner circumference. At least one detent element is rotatably
disposed in the annular space of the casing. The at least one detent element comprises a
magnet which aids in switching of switching elements. The switch assembly comprises a
switching circuit mounted in the annular space below the at least one detent element and is
interfaced with transmission control unit of the vehicle. The switching circuit is imprinted on
a printed circuit board which comprises a plurality of hall-effect sensors. The hall-effect
7
sensors detect change in magnetic field in the switch assembly when an operator operates the
switch assembly for shifting gears. The switching circuit also comprises at least one light
source such as but not limited to LED’s for illuminating the switch assembly. Further, the
switch assembly comprises a knob, rotatably mounted on outer circumference of the casing
and is connected to the at least one detent element. The knob is configured to selectively
actuate each of the plurality of hall-effect sensors through the at least one detent element
when the operator rotates the knob. Also, the knob comprises a plurality of gear shift
symbols, which acts as an indication to know at which direction the knob needs to be rotated
to obtain the desired gear shift.
Further, the casing of the switch assembly is configured with a first end and a second end. On
the first end, a first cap is mounted, which is fixed on the casing. The first cap is configured
as an indication member with an indication symbol, which acts as a reference point for
knowing the gear condition of the vehicle. Further, the first cap is mounted such that, the
knob when operated by an operator rotates around the first cap. On the second end of the
casing, a second cap is configured. The second cap supports the switching circuit enclosed in
the annular space of the casing. Also, at least one connecting element is configured on the
periphery of the casing, to mount the switch assembly in the provision provided in the cabin
of the vehicle.
Further, the casing is configured with at least one channel to drain the foreign particles
entering the switch assembly. The at least one channel is configured such that the foreign
particles do not contact with electrical components. In an embodiment, the at least one
channel is provisioned axial to the casing.
The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the
specification, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that assembly 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. In other words, one
or more elements in assembly proceeded 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 that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of
8
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.
Figures 1 and 2 are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure illustrating an isometric
view and exploded view of a switch assembly (100) for shifting gears in a gear transmission,
particularly automatic gear transmission of a vehicle. The switch assembly (100) is
configured to drain foreign particles such as but not limiting to water, dust, moisture,,
entering the switch assembly (100) thereby preventing malfunctioning of electrical
components. The switch assembly (100) comprises a casing (1) configured to be mounted in
a provision in the cabin of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the provision for casing (1) is
positioned adjacent to the operator along the transmission tunnel of the vehicle. In an
embodiment, the casing (1) is provisioned proximal to the operator to enable ease of
operation of the switch assembly (100). The casing (1) is selected from geometric shapes
such as but limiting to cylindrical or any other shape which serves the purpose of receiving
other components of the switch assembly (100). The casing (1) is provisioned with at least
one connecting member (11) for mounting the casing (1) on the provision provided in the
cabin of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the casing (1) is snap-fitted in the provision provide
in the cabin of the vehicle. The casing (1) is provisioned with an annular space (1a) [shown in
figure 2] configured to receive other components of the switch assembly (100). Also, the
casing (1) is configured with at least one channel (6) to route the foreign particles entering the
switch assembly (100). Further, the casing (1) is configured with a first end (1b) and a second
end (1c) for receiving components disposed in the casing (1).
The switch assembly further comprises at least one detent element (2) rotatably disposed in
the annular space (1a) of the casing (1). The at least one detent element (2) is provisioned
with a magnet (2a), such that upon rotation of the at least one detent element (2), the magnet
(2a) follows the at least one detent element (2). Further, a switching circuit (3) is provisioned
below the at least one detent (2a) in the annular space (1a). The switching circuit (3) is
imprinted on at least one of printed circuit board or flexible printed circuit board. In an
embodiment, the switching circuit (3) includes electrical components such as capacitors,
resistors, varistors. of the switch assembly (100). Further, the switching circuit (3) includes
9
illumination means such as but not limiting to LED’s to illuminate the switch assembly (100).
Also, a plurality of hall-effect sensors (4) are provided on the switching circuit (3), and are
configured to sense the variation in magnetic field when the at least one detent element (2) is
rotated on the switching circuit (3). The switching circuit (3) includes a wiring harness or
contact sockets (3a) projecting downwardly from the PCB. The contact socket (3a) is
interfaced with a transmission control unit or ECU of the vehicle for transmitting gearshift
signals. Furthermore, in the annular space (1a) of the casing (1) a second cap (10) is
mounted. The second cap (10) is configured to support the switching circuit (3) in the casing
(1). The second cap (10) comprises a chamber (10a) to accommodate the contact socket (3a)
provided in the PCB. In an embodiment, the second cap (10) is snap-fitted to the second end
(1c) of the casing (1).
The switch assembly (100) further includes, a first cap (7) is fixed on the first end (1b) of the
casing (1). In an embodiment, the casing (1) incudes slots [not shown in figures] for receiving
first cap (7). The first cap (7) is therefore fixed on the casing (1). An indication member (8) is
configured on the first cap (7), wherein an indication symbol is provided in the indication
member (8). The indication member (8) acts as a reference point or nodal point for
determination of gear shift condition of the vehicle during operation. In an embodiment, the
indication member (8) can be any numeral, markings or any other indication means to enable
determination of gear shift condition of the vehicle. Further, the switch assembly (100)
comprises a knob (5) which is rotatably mounted on outer circumference of the casing (1),
such that the knob (5) is rotatable around the first cap (7). In an embodiment, after mounting
the knob (5) on the first cap (7), the indication member (8) is visible to the operator, so that
the operator can comprehend the gear shift condition of the vehicle. The knob (5) further
connects the at least one detent element (2) by extension arms (5a) of the knob (5). The
extension arms (5a) are mounted along the slots (2b) provisioned in the at least one detent
element (2). Thus, upon rotating the knob (5) by an operator, the at least one detent element
(2) also rotates thereby selectively actuate each of the plurality of hall-effect sensors (4). The
knob (5) comprises a plurality of gear shift symbols (9) to enable the operator to select the
gear as required by the operator. In an embodiment, the gear shift symbols (9) are neutral (N),
drive (D) and reverse (R). On the knob (5), a third cap (12) is mounted concentrically. The
third cap (12) is configured with plurality of projections (12a) on its outer circumference to
facilitate grip to the operator for operating the switch assembly (100). Further, the switch
assembly (100) includes a third cap (12) configured on the knob (5). The third cap (12) is
10
provisioned as an ornamental ring to enclose all components of the switch assembly (100).
The third cap (12) comprises a plurality of projections (12a) on outer circumference to
facilitate grip to the operator for rotating the knob (5).
Figure 3 is an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, which illustrates sectional view of
the switch assembly (100). As illustrated in Figure. 3, at least one channel (6) is configured
on the casing (1). The at least one channel (6) is configured such that the foreign particles
entering the switch assembly (100) are routed out of the switch assembly (100). The at least
one channel (6) channels foreign particles away from electrical components of the switch
assembly, thereby prevent malfunctioning of electrical components. Thus, the foreign
particles entering the switch assembly (100) do not come in contact with the electrical
components. In another embodiment, the at least one channel (6) is provisioned in the casing
(1) such that the foreign particles entering the switch assembly (100) via the clearances are
routed out of the switch assembly (100). In an embodiment, the at least one channel (6) is
provisioned axially along entire length of the casing (1) and positioned proximal to the axis
of the casing (1). In another embodiment, the at least one channel (6) is provisioned
concentric to the axis of the casing (1). In yet another embodiment, the at least one channel
(6) is provisioned radially to the axis of the casing (1). In an exemplary embodiment, the at
least one channel (6) is configured with a convergent-divergent section, so that all the foreign
particles entering the switch assembly (100) are drained out. When there is entry of foreign
particles into the switch assembly (100) via the clearance in the switch assembly [shown in
figure 3]. The foreign particles enter through the knob (5) and reaches bottom of the casing
(1). Then the foreign particles enters the at least one channel (6) in the casing (1) and are
router along its length until the foreign particles are disposed of or drained out of the switch
assembly (100).
Figure 4a illustrates top, front and section views of the switch assembly (100), operated in
neutral condition according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. When the operator
rotates the knob (5) through the third cap (12) to neutral (N) position, the at least one detent
element (2) connecting the knob (5), rotates up to the axis N’-N’. Due to the rotation of the at
least one detent element (2), the magnet (2a) alters the magnetic flux of one of plurality of
hall-effect sensor (4). This generates a corresponding electrical signal, which is transmitted to
the transmission control unit, thereby shifting gears to neutral condition.
11
Figure 4b illustrates top, front and section views of the switch assembly (100), operated in
reverse condition according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. When the
operator rotates the knob (5) through the third cap (12) to reverse (R) position, the at least one
detent element (2) connecting the knob (5), rotates up to the axis R’-R’. Due to the rotation of
the at least one detent element (2), the magnet (2a) alters the magnetic flux of one of plurality
of hall-effect sensor (4). This generates a corresponding electrical signal, which is transmitted
to the transmission control unit, thereby shifting gears to reverse condition. Thus, the vehicle
is operated in reverse condition.
Figure 4c illustrates top, front and section views of the switch assembly (100), operated in
drive condition according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. When the operator
rotates the knob (5) through the third cap (12) to drive (D) position, the at least one detent
element (2) connecting the knob (5), rotates up to the axis D’-D’. Due to the rotation of the at
least one detent element (2), the magnet (2a) alters the magnetic flux of one of plurality of
hall-effect sensor (4). This generates a corresponding electrical signal, which is transmitted to
the transmission control unit, thereby shifting gears to drive condition. Thus, the vehicle is
operated in drive i.e. in forward condition.
It should be understood that the switch assembly as disclosed in present disclosure is
explained with an example of vehicle which one of the application of the switch assembly.
One can use the switch assembly in any other application where such need exists without
deviating from the scope of the disclosure. Hence, such applications are construed to be part
of the present disclosure.
Further, in the figures neither the vehicle nor the transmission is shown for the purpose of
simplicity, hence such figures should not be considered as a limitation of the present
disclosure.
Advantages:
The present disclosure provides a switch assembly, which enables to drain the foreign
particles entering the switch assembly. This, mitigates harmonics in the signals received from
the sensors of the switch assembly caused due to deposition of foreign particles on the
electrical components of the switch assembly.
12
The present disclosure provides a switch assembly, which can be used where the knobs are
subjected to malfunctioning due to entry of foreign particles.
Equivalents
With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having
skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the
plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural
permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially
in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open"
terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the
term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be
interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those
within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an
intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such
intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims
may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce
claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the
introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular
claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such
recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at
least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be
interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of
definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of
an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that
such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the
bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two
recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention
analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is
intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a
system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that
have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or
A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one
13
of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having
skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B,
or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and
B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be
further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase
presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings,
should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of
the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the
possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."
While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and
embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and
embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be
limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
REFERRAL NUMERALS
REFERRAL NUMERALS DESCRIPTION
100 Switching assembly
1 Casing
1a Annular space
1b First end of the casing
1c Second end of the casing
2 Detent element
2a Magnet
2b Slot
3 Switching circuit
3a Contact socket
4 Hall-effect sensor
5 Knob
5a Extension arms of the knob
6 Channel
7 First cap
8 Indication symbol
14
9 Gear shift symbols
10 Second cap
10a Chamber
11 Connecting element
12 Third cap
12a Plurality of projections
15
We Claim:
1. A switch assembly (100) for shifting gears in a vehicle, the assembly (100)
comprising:
a casing (1) configurable in a provision provided in a cabin of the vehicle, the
casing (1) comprises an annular space (1a) in an inner circumference;
at least one detent element (2) rotatably disposed in the annular space (1a),
wherein the at least one detent element (2) comprises at least one magnet (2a);
a switching circuit (3) mounted in the annular space (1a) below the at least one
detent element (2), wherein the switching circuit (3) comprises a plurality of hall
effect sensors (4);
a knob (5) rotatably mounted on an outer circumference of the casing (1) and
connected to the at least one detent element (2), wherein the knob (5) is configured to
selectively actuate each of the plurality of hall effect sensors (4) through the at least
one detent element (2),
wherein, the casing (1) comprises at least one channel (6) to drain foreign particles
entering the switch assembly (100).
2. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a first cap (7) mounted on
a first end (1b) of the casing (1).
3. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first cap (7) is
configured as an indication member and is provided with at least one indication
symbol (8).
4. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the knob (5) comprises a
plurality of gear shift symbols (9), and the knob (5) is configured to rotate around the
first cap (7).
5. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a second cap (10)
mounted on a second end (1c) of the casing (1), wherein the second cap (10) is
configured to support the switching circuit (3) in the annular space (1a).
6. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switching circuit (3) is
imprinted on a printed circuit board.
16
7. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switching circuit (3) is
interfaced with transmission control unit of the vehicle.
8. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casing (1) comprises at
least one connecting element (11) for mounting the switch assembly (100) in the
provision provided in a cabin of the vehicle.
9. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises third cap (12) mounted on
the knob (5), wherein the third cap (12) is provided with a plurality of projections
(12a) on outer circumference to facilitate grip to an operator.
10. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switching circuit (3)
comprises at least one light source for illuminating the switch assembly (100).
11. A method of assembling a switch assembly (100) comprising steps of:
configuring at least one detent element (2) in an annular space (1a) of the
casing (1), wherein the at least one detent element (10) comprises at least one magnet
(2a) and is rotatably disposed in the annular space (1a);
mounting a switching circuit (3) in the annular space (1b) below the at least
one detent element (2), wherein the switching circuit (3) comprises a plurality of hall
effect sensors (4)
mounting a knob (5) rotatably on an outer circumference of the casing (1); and
connecting, the knob (5) to the at least one detent element (2), wherein the
knob (5) is configured to selectively actuate each of the plurality of hall effect sensors
(4) through the movement of the at least one detent element (2).