DE10027331A1 - Automobile gearbox operating method compares signals from redundant position detection devices for gear shift lever for providing operating signals for actuator used for selecting gear ratio - Google Patents

Abstract

The gearbox operating method has a gear changing control which responds to the detected position of the gear shift lever (18), provided via at least 2 redundant position detection devices, for providing corresponding control signals for an actuator used to select the gear ratio, with control of the actuator by a replacement characteristic when the position detection devices provide different gear shift lever positions. An Independent claim for an automobile automatic gearbox is also included.

Description

The invention relates to a method for operating a transmission device, a transmission device and the use of such.

For the purposes of the present invention, a transmission device is a one direction, which is stepped or stepless in different switching positions can be switched in which they have a different translation ver Ratio generated between two waves. The gear device is e.g. B. as Exchange gear or conical pulley belt transmission or the same trained. The control of gear shift operations direction can be automatic or manual or semi-automatic or automatic be trained with additional intervention by hand. A Gear device in the sense of the present invention can be so forms that the switching between two switching positions with tensile force interruption or without interruption of traction.

The transmission device is preferably an automatic transmission, wherein under one Automatic transmission is a transmission device to be understood when switching processes can be controlled automatically without interrupting the traction. An automatic transmission preferably has a planetary transmission. Especially the transmission device is preferred as an automated manual transmission (ASG), an automated manual transmission being a transmission Direction is when switching operations are automated with traction interruption can be controlled.  

Gear devices and methods for controlling such are already in place known.

For example, an automated manual transmission is known in which one Control device electrically controls an actuator. The Actuating device has two electric motors, one of which is movable arranged switching element can act on a switching device. This movably arranged switching element is within a selection Shift gate arrangement arranged movably. If this is moving on Ordered switching element in predetermined positions of the shift gate posi is predetermined predetermined gears assigned to these positions switches. We exist within Wählgasse, also called Neutralgasse at least a position in which the switching element is essentially force-free Can take position. At least if the switching element is in this Is in the shift position, the neutral gear is engaged.

One of the electric motors, the selector motor, is used to apply the Switching element in the selection direction, while the second electric motor, the Switch motor, used to apply the switching element in the switching direction. A path detection device that, for example, as an incremental Sensor device is formed, monitors or detects the positioning of the movably arranged switching element or one with this pelt component. For example, an incremental sensor is for the dial direction and an incremental sensor for the switching direction is provided.

The control device controls the actuating device or its Electric motors according to a predetermined characteristic, so that a predetermined gear actuation is effected. The sent out for this Control signals become at least partially dependent on predetermined ones Operating parameters, the parameters of a motor vehicle with gearbox  can be generated. Such a characteristic value is, for example, the Mo door speed or gearbox speed.

Such a transmission device can additionally have a selector lever sen.

In the sense of the invention, a selector lever is a device which can be any can be formed and between different selector lever lungs can be switched. In particular, the selector lever is used as a lever formed, which has a pivot point around which it can be moved can.

It is preferred that the selector lever is in at least one of the positions "R", "N", "D", "M", "+", "-", "Sportbetrieb", "Winterbetrieb" can be switched.

"R" is a position indicated by the selector lever switch position is that a vehicle with a gear device should drive backwards or the gear device should be switched such that when actuated a fuel metering device, e.g. B. an accelerator pedal, the motor vehicle stuff can drive backwards. "N" is a selector lever switch position in which the Selector lever indicates that the transmission device is in a neutral position should be switched. "D" is a switch position of the selector lever in which the Selector lever indicates that a vehicle with a gear device in a nor paint forward drive mode to be operated. "M" is a selector lever switch position, which indicates that the selector lever is in a switch position, off which can be initiated manually gear shift operations. A gear shift process in the direction of a next higher gear can by manual actuation of the selector lever in selector lever switch position "+" be initiated during a gear shift process towards a next lower gear by manually operating the selector lever in Direction of the switch position "-" can be initiated. This manual intervention In specialist circles, the option is also known as "Tiptronic" or  Called "Steptronic". The selector lever switch position "Sport operation" or "Winter operation" indicates that the automated gearbox actuation from the control device to be controlled that a motor vehicle with Gear device with a sporty driving style or to changed weather conditions properties to be operated adapted. The selector lever switch position "Winter operation" can indicate, for example, that the control or actuation supply of the gear device should be adapted to temperatures which below 15 ° C or below 10 ° C or below 5 ° C or below 0 ° C or at minus degrees or the like with regard to predetermined driving operation parameters such as fuel consumption or the like is improved.

However, the invention is not limited to transmission devices, all of which have the aforementioned selector lever switch positions. It is also preferred that a part of these states indicated as selector lever switch position or Operating modes can be initiated via separate switches. For example a sports switch or a winter switch provided separately, so that from Selector lever different element or a second selector lever in this position ion can be brought. The selector lever switch position "P" is a selector lever switch position, which can be inserted when parking. Hereby is particularly indicated that a roll-away protection are switched should. A roll-away protection can be designed, for example, that the first gear is engaged automatically. It is also preferred that in the Selector lever switch position "P" a parking lock, ie a mechanical blockage the gear device is switched.

By operating the selector lever you can manually enter the automated control tion of the transmission device can be intervened. A selector lever can be used in ver different selector lever switch positions are switched, which for example They represent a specific driver request or an instruction from the Driver, according to which the automated control of the transmission  device to be changed. For example, the Driver between selector lever switch positions "P" (anti-roll protection), "R" (reverse drive upwards), "D" (drive forward normally), "M" (manual operation), "+" Select (gear up), "-" (gear down) or the like.

The selector lever switch positions "R", "D", "P" are in particular Vorga ben of the driver, each of which the control device vorbe agreed control characteristics to control the actuator or selected for gearbox actuation. When operating in M mode, the Fah rer switched to a switch position from which he selects switch positions "+" and "-" can switch. This selector lever switch position gene cause in the automated control of the transmission device is intervened in such a way that immediately after inserting these switch positions a gear is shifted up or down. So it can be Trigger transmission shifts at times that are controlled by the controller direction according to the control characteristics at these times would have been solved. This enables a sportier driving, for example wise than by the control device according to the corresponding Driving programs or control characteristics would have been specified. Even in overtaking maneuvers, a driver may wish to enter a low downshift gear for better acceleration produce.

The information about the selector lever switch position is sent to the control Direction here in particular transmitted electrically, so that a mechanical Connection between selector lever and control device avoided who that can.

For this purpose, an electrical signal is generated in known arrangements, wel ches represents the selector lever switch position and which to the control tion facility is transmitted.  

Such devices have already proven themselves on the market.

Nevertheless, it has been observed several times in such facilities that in the gear device has triggered false switching. Furthermore, observ attention has been paid to the fact that the actual switching positions of the dial insufficient or no consideration when operating the gearbox have found.

The invention is therefore based on the object of a method for operating to create a transmission device and a transmission device by which results in low-cost and structurally simple switching errors the gear device and which the selector lever shift position when operating the gear device with improved accuracy security and higher security.

The object is achieved by a method according to claim 1.

A transmission device according to the invention is the subject of claim 19 or claim 35.

An inventive use is the subject of claim 36 or of claim 37.

Preferred developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims che.

The invention relates to a method for operating a transmission device suggested which operated in different switching positions that can. The gear device has in particular a selector lever on, especially in manual operation, in different selections switch positions can be switched. Furthermore, the transmission device device a movably arranged element, such as a shift fin  ger, by positioning the different switch positions the gear device can be switched. This moveable ordered element can be subjected to a force as a result of which it can move. The temporal course of this force is with a tax controlled device. The control device can according to a generate predetermined characteristic control signals. To be favoured this control signals to an actuator with a selector motor and transmitted to a switch motor. These engines generate depending an output torque and / or one of these control signals Output speed on a respective output shaft of the respective electrical motors, each coupled to the movably arranged element are. The selector motor can do this by means of the corresponding coupling elements movably arranged element in the selection direction and the switching motor that Move the movably arranged element in the switching direction.

It is preferably provided that the positioning of the movably arranged Element or a component coupled to it is thereby driven by a transmission Position detection device is monitored or detected.

According to the invention, two position detection devices are also provided see which particular from the gear position detector are different and which selector lever switch position can detect.

According to the invention it is provided that this position detection devices each capture the selector lever switch position, so that for the Selector lever switch positions each provided several position signals become.

For the purposes of the present invention, a position Detection device to understand a device which is a selector lever switch position continuously or in predetermined switching stages. In particular, a position detection device in the sense of the invention  the switching stages "P", "R", "N", "D", "M", "+", "-", "Sportbetrieb", "Winter operation "or determine a part of these switch positions. Detection device is designed in particular as a sensor device.

The position detection devices can the selector lever switch positions with the same or with different accuracy. In this sense For example, it is preferred that one of the position detection devices can detect the selector lever switch positions "P", "R", "N", "D", "M", "+", "-", while the second position detection device, which in particular for redundant detection of the selector lever switch position is used, only the dial lever switch positions "P", "R", "D" can detect. It is further preferred that the signals generated by the position detection devices according to a predetermined characteristic the driving state with a different Capture accuracy. In this sense it is preferred that a first position Detection device detects the above-mentioned selector lever switch positions can distinguish and differentiate, that is, for each of these positions a different signal, while a second, redundant position Detection device only driving states "drive forward", "reverse drive "," stand ". It is preferred that in the dial lever switch positions D, M, "+", "-", each an identical signal from the Position detection device is generated.

According to the invention it is provided that a control signal for loading the considering at least one movably arranged element the determined selector lever switch position is generated when the two positi ons detection devices an identical and / or non-contradictory Show switching position. In the sense of the invention, a switch position is in particular especially not identical or contradictory if the position detection facilities taking into account their accuracy of detection show different or no selector lever switch positions. In the event of failure Both position detection devices is not one in the sense of the invention  Identical or a contradictory switching position detected. According to one a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is a selector lever Switch position is not already identical or contradictory when one of the position detection devices is impaired in its function or no position signal generated.

In terms of assessing whether the various position Detection devices identical or non-contradictory positions display or not, in particular, the accuracy of the position Detection devices to be considered. If, for example, you talk dante position detection device do not display certain positions or can detect which from a main position detection device can be recorded and displayed, especially not to be expected hen that the positions were not recorded identically or contradictory. Accordingly, there is a non-identical or contradictory position information mation not before if a redundancy position detection device only which can distinguish between "forward", "backward" and "standing" driving status Status indicates "forward" and the main position detector at for example, indicates that the selector lever is in the selector lever switch position "M" is located.

According to the invention it is provided that the gear device, and in particular the movably arranged element, according to a predetermined replacement Characteristic is controlled or charged when the at least two positi ons detection devices ambiguous position values for the selector lever generate switch position. In particular, there are no ambiguous values understand identical or contradictory positions or position values.

The control device generates different control signals if the selector lever is positioned in different positions. The of the Control device generated signals which to the actuating device  tion are sent out, or the load of the movably arranged Element is generated according to a predetermined characteristic that the Selector lever switch position taken into account. For example, the predetermined one Characteristics differ depending on the selector lever switch position Driving programs.

Generated according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention the control device the control signals depending on the last clearly determined selector lever switch position. The movably arranged Element is therefore in the case when an ambiguous position value of the Detection devices was generated depending on the position value debited, which was determined as the last unique position value. The unique position value is in particular a position value that is determined by the posi tion detection devices identically or non-contradictory displayed has been.

If an ambiguous position from the position detection devices value for the selector lever switch position was generated according to a particular the preferred embodiment of the invention from the control device as long as generates a control signal according to an alternative characteristic, until it is determined that the motor vehicle in which the transmission device is arranged, is moved at a speed which is less than one predetermined speed. According to the Er characteristic generates the control signal until it is determined that the motor vehicle is at a standstill. According to this, it is particularly preferred Detection the gear device switched to the neutral gear position.

The selector lever is particularly preferably automatically in the N shift position moves when it is determined that the vehicle speed is less than is a predetermined vehicle speed or zero and the steering beforehand tion signals were generated according to a replacement characteristic.  

Furthermore, it is particularly preferred if a control signal is generated which engages the clutch only when the accelerator pedal, such as the accelerator pedal, is actuated and the clutch disengages if a vehicle brake is applied and / or the accelerator pedal is not operated. This is preferred when the deed Real or measured vehicle speed is less than a past agreed vehicle speed or zero. This is also advantageous if the signals from the redundant sensor are faulty.

It is preferred that the driving speed or the standstill of the vehicle depending on predetermined driving characteristics, such as se the wheel speed or the transmission speed is determined.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the Position detection device a CAN interface or a Mikropro processor or a rotation angle sensor or a shift register or a Voltage divider device or a combination of the aforementioned components on. It is preferred that with a CAN interface from a plurality of Individual signals a signal is generated which is determined by the position Detection device can be transmitted to the control device and which is the complete positioning information provided by a Position detection device was determined includes. The individual signals are, for example, the switch positions of a plurality of switches, which are each assigned to a predetermined selector lever switch position and can generate a digital signal. This digital signal can in particular each show whether the selector lever in the respective this switch orderly switch position or not. Using these digital signals be determined in which switching position the selector lever is. Be it is particularly preferred that the individual switch positions in a front determined order or the signals of these switches in a pre certain order are brought. With the CAN interface can these individual signals an overall signal is generated, which as a total  unit can be sent to the control device. It is preferred that at least one of the position detection devices a microprocessor having. Signals from switches or the like are generated and the position information of the selector lever wear at least partially, transmitted to the microprocessor. For example are arranged on the microprocessor switch.

It is preferred that at least one of the position detection devices has a rotation angle sensor. This angle sensor can Detect rotary movement or swivel movement, which is a rotatable gela Selector lever during the movement between different gears positions. The corresponding from the rotation angle sensor advanced signal can be used to determine the switch position of the selector lever used and transmitted to the control device.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention at least one of the position detection devices a shift register on. This shift register allows digital signals from a plurality generated by switches and each indicate whether the selector lever is in a predetermined switching position is or is not in a vorbe agreed order. The Si gnale transmitted to the control device or by this according to a predetermined characteristic can be retrieved. Using the individual digi The control can be valley signals and the order of their transmission direction clearly the selector lever switch position from a position Detection device can be determined.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the position detection devices a voltage divider device on. In particular, this voltage divider device with a push-wire the resistance at which the tapped at this sliding resistance  Resistance or the voltage tapped at this sliding resistor depends on the selected selector lever switch position, or the voltage divider device is designed as a switching arrangement in which between different resistances depending on the selector lever switch position can be switched. For example, a switching device is provided hen this changeover depending on the selector lever switch position makes.

It is particularly preferred that a position detection device to a first detection, a main detection, is provided and a second position ons detection device for a second detection, a redundant Detect is provided.

It is preferred that the redundant detection with a lower accuracy is performed as the main detection, so that redundant detection for example, it is only determined whether the selector lever is in a shift position, which indicates a backward or a forward drive or whether the Selector lever is in the neutral position while a main detection device For example, it can indicate whether the selector lever is in a P switch position or an R switching position or an N switching position or a D switching position or an M switch position or a "+" switch position or a "-" - Switch position is.

It should be noted that according to the invention in particular other than that exemplary, selector lever switch positions from the respective positi ons detection devices can be detected.

The main position detection device preferably has an intelligent one Component, in particular a CAN interface and / or at least one Mi kroprocessor and / or at least one shift register. With this construction elements can, for example, a position signal in Wei described above se generated or transmitted to the control device.  

Particularly preferably, the position detection device with which redundant position detection can be carried out, at least a voltage divider device, which in particular in already above described form is formed.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the Position signal from the position detection device serial or analog or by means of a CAN interface or as an appropriately trained signal transmit the control device.

In particular, the invention provides that the position signals, which were generated as part of the main recording, serially or by means of CAN interface or as a correspondingly trained signal to the control tion device are transferred, which in the context of redundant Detection generated signals in particular analog or as corresponding trained signal are transmitted.

According to the invention, the position signal can be Detection device to the control device without contact or via a corresponding connection, such as one or more Cables.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, at the position detection within at least one of the position Detection devices, especially within the main position Detection device transmit a signal without contact. It is preferred that this contactlessly transmitted signal at least partially the selector lever switch position represents. For example, this signal is a signal which ches can operate a digital switch. The digital switch is in particular special one of several digital switches, each a predetermined Selector lever switch position are assigned and can show whether the Selector lever is in this predetermined switching position or not.  

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a A plurality of individual signals are detected, each of which is suitable for selection to determine the Belschaltstellung such that a Teilbe based on this signal range of all possible selector lever switch positions can be determined in which the selector lever is currently or not.

An example of such a single signal is a digital signal, which at is generated for example by a digital switch. This digital pointer can indicate that the selector lever is in the appropriate switch position det or not. The selector lever is located in the through the digital switch represented switch position, so is the selector lever switch position certainly. However, this single signal indicates that the selector lever is not in the corresponding switch position is, so with this signal Part of the range of all possible selector lever switch positions includes, be determined in which the selector lever is located. This is e.g. B. in In the case of a digital signal, the amount of all possible selector lever switch positions with the exception of the selector lever switch position, which is the switch position represents the digital switch. A plurality of such is preferred Individual signals generate an overall signal or at least a part of them Signal chain comprising individual signals generated, which or which to the Control device can be transmitted.

A signal chain or an overall signal from the Transfer position detection device to the control device which the position information of all of the position Detection device detects individual signals, so that this total Si signal or this signal chain is representative of the selector lever switch position.

The object is further achieved by an automated transmission device according to claim 18. This automated transmission device can in ver different switch positions are operated, with different  Switch positions different translations between two shafts ge can be switched.

The gear device has an actuating device.

An actuating device is an on in the sense of the present invention direction, which forms of energy can convert and a form of energy or produces a characteristic value by means of which one Switching device or at least one of these, movably attached ordered element can be operated or loaded. The actuator device can have an electric motor, which electrical energy in kineti cal energy changes so that the kinetic energy to move the be movable element can be used. Preferably, the Actuator on a selector motor and a switch motor.

A transmission device according to the invention also has a control direction, which a signal to the actuator according to a can transmit predetermined characteristics. The auto according to the invention automated transmission device also has a selector lever, which ma can be moved to different switching positions. This under different switch positions can be at least partially Detection device can be determined, which generates a signal which the control device can be transmitted. The selector lever switch development, for example, the desire of a driver of a motor vehicle Gear device according to the invention for a predetermined driving program is expressed by the control device when generating the signal, that is when actuating the actuating device or loading the be movable element taken into account so that in different Selector lever switch positions different signals in predetermined situations ions are generated.  

According to the invention, the position detection device has an intelligent one Component, in particular a CAN interface and / or at least one Angle sensor and / or at least one shift register. Is preferred also that a position detection device a voltage divider Device that, for example, a sliding resistance or a Circuit arrangement in which between different effective resistances that can be switched back and forth.

The position generated by the position detection device is preferred on signal under predetermined conditions to the control device transfer. This position signal is preferably not at least partially mechanically. It is particularly preferred that this position signal is an elec trical signal.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the Gear device on at least two position detection devices, one of which is a main position detector and one Redundancy position detection device is.

This enables the selector lever switch position to be double are detected, so that increased security with regard to the generated Posi tion signal is given.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the Main position detection device on a security device. This The safety device is in particular a fuse. Is preferred arranged the fuse in such a way that it protects the control device tion serves. If a short in the main position detection device circuit or the like occurs, which produces particularly high currents, that lead to functional impairment and in particular to destruction could lead to the control device, this fuse melts as a result of the heating in the or caused by the high currents  Connection lines to the control device so that these high currents not reach the control device and / or not to destroy the Lead control device.

It is preferred that the redundancy position detection device is an elec tric protection circuit device, which prevents high Currents can arise. This protective switching device can basically be of any design and in particular prevents the occurrence of currents larger than a predetermined current by a voltage and / or current limiting device. In particular, a current limit tion device provided, which prevents currents that are greater than are a predetermined current, can arise at all.

The redundancy position detection device is preferably designed in this way det that it can detect fewer switching positions of the selector lever than that Main position detection device. It is particularly preferred that the Redundancy position detector less predetermined switching positions such as the "P", "R", "N", "D", "M", "+" -, "-" selector lever switch positions tion, can be detected as the main position detection device. Example the redundancy position detection device can only part of the detect the aforementioned selector lever switch positions while the main Position detection device detects all of these selector lever switch positions can.

The selector lever switch position "+" corresponds to the meaning of this invention Selector lever shift position "Tiptronic Plus", as well as the selector lever shift position "-" corresponds to the selector lever switch position "Tiptronic Minus".

It is also preferred that the redundancy position detection device inso can detect fewer selector lever switch positions than the main Position detection device than they switch between fewer selector lever positions can differentiate. This means in particular that  the redundancy position detection device various selector levers recognizes shift positions as a selector lever shift position or an identical one Signal generated for different selector lever switch positions, but not under is divisible in which particular selector lever switch position the dial is lever is located. For example, the redundancy position Detection device for various selector lever switch positions for which the Main detector generates different signals, a single one Signal. In particular, the main position detection device for the Selector lever switch positions "D", "M", "+" and "-" each have a separate signal, which is, for example, a digital signal, while the redundancy Position detection device for all of the aforementioned selector lever switching positions generates a signal, for example a digital signal.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention within the main position detector below predetermined ones Conditions a signal can be transmitted without contact.

It is particularly preferred that within the main detection device a signal generator is arranged, which is arranged on the selector lever and the Movement of the selector lever follows. This signal generator can be a magnet be direction. Is preferred within the main position Detection device further arranged at least one signal receiver, which can receive a signal emitted by the signal transmitter. The se signal receivers can be digital switches, one each correct switching position of the selector lever are assigned. Under predetermined conditions, and especially if the signal generator is preparing has the correct relative position to a respective switch, the switch can Received signal from the signal generator, which causes the switch changed its switch position. For example, one with the shift lever moving magnet so moved over an arrangement of switches that with a circuit board are connected so that in predetermined selector lever  Lungs such as "D", "N", "R", "M", and the like move with the selector lever ter magnet triggers a switch. If the signal generator or If the switch is moved away from this trigger position, the switch switches back to its previous switch position.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the Control device of the transmission device under predetermined areas Similarities from the main position detection as well as from the Redun danz position detection device each receive a signal the respective selection recognized by the respective detection devices indicator switch position. The displayed selector lever switch positions can be the same or different. In particular, they can be different be when one of the position detection devices functions shows pregnancy. If the displayed switching positions are not the same or the position detectors have failed and as a result The control device selects no selector lever switch position according to a predetermined characteristic, a predetermined selector lever switch position off. This selector lever switch position can be a selector lever switch position that is currently on by one of the position detection devices will be shown. It can also be a different selector lever switch be lung. In particular, the selector lever switch position, which is the control device selects or accepts as given, the selector lever switch position, which was last displayed by the switches.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, use the control device detects a selector lever switch position in order to provide a signal determine or generate which overmit to the actuator telt or by means of which a movably arranged element of the switching device is charged. The control device preferably uses the switching position indicated by the position detection devices for Signal generation when the position detection devices, in particular  the main and the redundancy position detection device, one Show identical and / or plausible switching position. Preferably used the control device in the case where the main and the redundancy Position detection device different switching positions and / or Show implausible selector lever switch positions, the selector lever switch position signal generation by the main and redundancy position Acquisition was last displayed identically and / or plausibly.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the Gear device according to the invention with a coupling device, which in particular an electronically controlled clutch device is controlled together. It is particularly preferred that the selector lever switch position, which is used by the transmission device for signal generation, also is used to control the coupling device.

The coupling device and the transmission device preferably each have because a separate control device, this control being directions in particular interact. It is particularly preferred that a common control device for controlling the transmission device and to control the coupling device and possibly other devices is provided.

The object is further achieved by an automated transmission device according to claim 34.

An inventive use is the subject of claim 35 or of claim 36. A transmission device according to the invention is in particular designed such as they invented in the context of the description The inventive method has been explained.

The claims submitted with the application are drafted strikes without prejudice for obtaining further patent protection. The  The applicant reserves the right to do so, so far only in the description and / or to claim features disclosed in the drawings.

Relationships used in subclaims point to the others Formation of the subject of the main claim by the features of respective subclaim; they are not a waiver of attainment an automatic, objective protection for the characteristics of the back understood subordinate claims.

However, the subjects of these subclaims also form automatic inventions dungen, which is one of the subjects of the preceding subclaims have independent design.

The invention is not based on the embodiment (s) of the description limited. Rather, numerous changes are within the scope of the invention and modifications possible, in particular such variants, elements and Combinations and / or materials, e.g. B. by combination or Ab conversion of individuals in connection with those in the general description Exercise and embodiments and the claims described and in features or elements or process contained in the drawings steps are inventive and can be combined to create a new one Subject or new process steps or process step sequences lead, also insofar as they relate to manufacturing, testing and working processes.

It should be noted that the interaction of the individual invented features according to the invention in any combination is preferred. Ins special are also those disclosed by the independent claims Characteristic combinations with omission of one or more characteristics preferred in each case. The methods according to the invention are also in combination prefers.  

It should also be noted that the comments on all known Orders in the first place that do not relate to specific publications Line are known to the applicant or the inventor, so that the inventor Protection for this is reserved unless it is also known to the public are.

It should be noted that when linking features by "or" this "or" each on the one hand as a mathematical "or" and on the other hand as the each other is to be understood as excluding "or".

It should also be noted that the concept of taxation as well as of it derived terms within the meaning of the invention is to be understood broadly. He includes in particular rules and / or taxes in the sense of DIN.

It is apparent to the person skilled in the art that the execution shown here examples of the invention, a variety of other modifications and off guides are conceivable, which are covered by the invention. The invention be is particularly not limited to the execution shown here to form.

In the following, the invention will now be described by way of example, not limitation Kender embodiments explained in more detail.

It shows:

Figure 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the invention in schematic, partially sectioned view. and

Fig. 2 shows a second exemplary embodiment of the invention in a schematic, partially sectioned view.

The Fig. 1 schematically shows a vehicle 1 with a drive unit 2, such as engine or internal combustion engine. Furthermore, a torque transmission system 3 and a transmission 4 are shown in the drive train of the vehicle. In this embodiment, the torque transmission system 3 is arranged in the power flow between the engine and the transmission, a drive torque of the engine being transmitted via the torque transmission system to the transmission and from the transmission 4 on the output side to an output shaft 5 and to an ordered axis 6 and to the wheels 6 a becomes.

The torque transmission system 3 is designed as a clutch, such as a friction clutch, multi-plate clutch, magnetic powder clutch or converter lockup clutch, the clutch being a self-adjusting, a wear-compensating clutch. The transmission 4 is shown as a manual transmission, such as a multi-speed transmission. According to the inventive concept of the invention, however, the transmission can also be an automated manual transmission, which can be automatically switched by means of at least one actuator. An automated manual transmission is further understood to be an automated transmission which is switched with a traction interruption and the switching operation of the transmission ratio is carried out in a controlled manner by means of at least one actuator.

An automatic transmission can also be used, an Au tomat transmission a transmission with essentially no interruption in tractive power the switching operations and usually through planetary gear stages is constructed.

Furthermore, a continuously variable transmission, such as a cone pulley transmission, can be used. The automatic transmission can also be designed with a torque transmission system 3 arranged on the output side, such as a clutch or friction clutch. The torque transmission system can also be designed as a starting clutch and / or a reversing clutch for reversing the direction of rotation and / or a safety clutch with a selectively controllable transferable torque. The torque transmission system can be a dry friction clutch or a wet friction clutch that runs, for example, in a fluid. It can also be a torque converter.

The torque transmission system 3 has a drive side 7 and an output side 8 , wherein a torque is transmitted from the drive side 7 to the output side 8 by the clutch disc 3 a by means of the pressure plate 3 b, the plate spring 3 c and the release bearing 3 e and the flywheel 3 d is subjected to force. For this purpose, the release lever 20 is actuated by means of an actuating device, such as an actuator.

The torque transmission system 3 is controlled by means of a control unit 13 , such as a control unit, which can include the control electronics 13 a and the actuator 13 b. In another advantageous embodiment, the actuator and the control electronics can also be arranged in two different structural units, such as housings.

The control unit 13 can contain the control and power electronics for controlling the electric motor 12 of the actuator 13 b. As a result, it can advantageously be achieved, for example, that the system requires the construction space for the actuator with electronics as the only installation space. The actuator consists of a drive motor 12 , such as an electric motor, the electric motor 12 acting on a master cylinder 11 via a gear, such as a worm gear or spur gear or crank gear or threaded gear spindle drive. This effect on the master cylinder can take place directly or via a linkage.

The movement of the output part of the actuator, such as the master cylinder piston 11 a, is detected with a clutch travel sensor 14 , which detects the position or position or the speed or the acceleration of a variable which is proportional to the position or engagement position or the speed or acceleration of the clutch . The master cylinder 11 is connected via a pressure medium line 9 , such as a hydraulic line, to the slave cylinder 10 . The output element 10 a of the slave cylinder is operatively connected to the release lever or release means 20 , so that movement of the output part 10 a of the slave cylinder 10 causes the return means 20 to also be moved or tilted to control the torque that can be transmitted from the clutch 3 .

The actuator 13 b for controlling the transferable torque of the torque transmission system 3 can be actuatable by pressure medium, ie it can be equipped with a pressure medium transmitter and slave cylinder. The pressure medium can be, for example, a hydraulic fluid or a pneumatic medium. The actuation of the pressure medium transmitter cylinder can be provided by an electric motor, wherein the electric motor 12 can be controlled electronically. The drive element of the actuator 13 b can be in addition to an electromotive drive element's also another, for example pressure medium-actuated drive element. Magnetic actuators can also be used to adjust a position of an element.

In the case of a friction clutch, the transferable torque is controlled in that the contact pressure of the friction linings of the clutch disk between the flywheel 3 d and the pressure plate 3 b takes place in a targeted manner. About the position of the disengagement means 20 , such as release fork or central release, the force applied to the pressure plate or the friction linings can be controlled in a targeted manner, the pressure plate being moved between two end positions and being able to be set and fixed as desired. One end position corresponds to a fully engaged clutch position and the other end position corresponds to a fully disengaged clutch position. To control a transferable torque, which is, for example, less than the momentary engine torque, a position of the pressure plate 3 b can be controlled, for example, which lies in an intermediate region between the two end positions. The clutch can be fixed in this position by means of the targeted actuation of the disengaging means 20 . However, it is also possible to control transmissible clutch torques that are defined above the engine torques currently pending. In such a case, the current engine torques can be transmitted, the torque nonuniformities in the drive train being damped and / or isolated in the form of, for example, torque peaks.

For control, such as control or regulation, of the torque transfer system are still used, at least temporarily monitor the relevant variables of the entire system and those for control necessary state variables, signals and measured values that are supplied by the Control unit to be processed, one signal connection to another Electronic units, such as a motor electronics or Electronics of an anti-lock braking system (ABS) or an anti-slip control (ASR) can be provided and can exist. Detect the sensors for example speeds, such as wheel speeds, engine speeds, the position the load lever, the throttle valve position, the gear position of the transmission, an intention to shift and other vehicle-specific parameters.

Fig. 1 shows that a throttle valve sensor 15 , an engine speed sensor 16 , and a speedometer sensor 17 are used and transmit measured values or information to the control unit. The electronics unit, such as the computer unit, of the control unit 13 a processes the system input variables and forwards control signals to the actuator 13 b.

The transmission is designed as a step change transmission, the transmission stages being changed by means of a shift lever or the transmission being operated or operated by means of this shift lever. Furthermore, at least one sensor 19 b is arranged on the operating lever, such as shift lever 18 , of the manual transmission, which detects the intention to shift and / or the gear position and forwards it to the control unit. The sensor 19 a is articulated on the transmission and detects the current gear position and / or a shift view. The switching intention detection using at least one of the two sensors 19 a, 19 b can take place in that the sensor is a force sensor which detects the force acting on the shift lever. Furthermore, the sensor can also be designed as a displacement or position sensor, the control unit recognizing an intention to switch from the temporal change in the position signal.

The control unit is at least temporarily in signal connection with all sensors and evaluates the sensor signals and system input variables in such a way that, depending on the current operating point, the control unit issues control or regulation commands to the at least one actuator. The drive element 12 of the actuator, such as an electric motor, receives from the control unit, which controls the clutch actuation, a manipulated variable as a function of measured values and / or system input variables and / or signals from the connected sensors. For this purpose, a control program is implemented in the control unit as hardware and / or software, which evaluates the incoming signals and calculates or determines the output variables on the basis of comparisons and / or functions and / or characteristic maps.

The control unit 13 has advantageously implemented a torque determination unit, a gear position determination unit, a slip determination unit and / or an operating state determination unit or is in signal connection with at least one of these units. These units can be implemented by control programs as hardware and / or software, so that by means of the incoming sensor signals the torque of the drive unit 2 of the vehicle 1 , the gear position of the transmission 4 and the slip which prevails in the area of the torque transmission system and the current operating state of the vehicle can be determined. The gear position determination unit uses the signals from the sensors 19 a and 19 b to determine the currently engaged gear. The sensors are articulated on the shift lever and / or on gearbox-internal adjusting means, such as a central shift shaft or shift rod, and detect them, for example the position and / or the speed of these components. Furthermore, a load lever sensor 31 can be arranged on the load lever 30 , such as an accelerator pedal, which detects the load lever position. A wide rer sensor 32 can act as an idle switch, that is, when the gas pedal is actuated, such as a load lever, this idle switch 32 is switched on and when a signal is not actuated, it is switched off, so that this digital information can be used to detect whether the load lever, like Accelerator pedal is operated. The load lever sensor 31 detects the degree of actuation of the load lever.

Fig. 1 shows in addition to the accelerator pedal 30 , as a load lever, and the sensors associated therewith a brake actuator 40 for loading the service brake or the parking brake, such as the brake pedal, hand brake lever or hand or foot-operated actuator of the parking brake. At least one sensor 41 is arranged on the actuating element 40 and monitors its actuation. The sensor 41 is designed, for example, as a digital sensor, such as a switch, which detects that the actuating element is actuated or not actuated. With this sensor, a signal device, such as a brake light, can be in signal connection, which signals that the brake is actuated. This can be done both for the service brake and for the parking brake. However, the sensor can also be designed as an analog sensor, such a sensor, such as a potentiometer, determining the degree of actuation of the actuating element. This sensor can also be in signal connection with a signal device.

Fig. 2 shows schematically a drive train of a vehicle with a drive unit 100 , a torque transmission system 102 , a Ge gear 103 , a differential 104 and drive axles 109 and wheels 106th

The torque transmission system 102 is arranged or fastened on or on a flywheel 102a , the flywheel generally carrying a starter ring gear 102b . The torque transmission system has a pressure plate 102 d, a clutch cover 102 e, a plate spring 102 f and a clutch disc 102 c with friction linings. Between the clutch disc 102 d and the flywheel 102 a, the clutch disc 102 c is optionally arranged with a damping device. An energy accumulator, such as plate spring 102 f, acts on the pressure plate in the axial direction towards the clutch disc, a release bearing 109 , such as, for example, pressure-actuated central release mechanism, being provided for actuating the torque transmission system. A release bearing 110 is arranged between the central releaser and the tongue spring tongues of the plate spring 102 f. Axial displacement of the release bearing causes the disc spring to act and disengages the clutch. The clutch can also be designed as a pressed or a pulled clutch.

The actuator 108 is an actuator of an automated manual transmission, which also contains the actuation unit for the torque transmission system. The actuator 108 actuates internal shifting elements, such as a shift drum or shift rods or a central shift shaft of the transmission, whereby the gears can be inserted or removed in, for example, sequential order or in any order. Via the connection 111 , the clutch actuation element 109 is actuated. The control unit 107 is connected to the actuator via the signal connection 112 , the signal connections 113 to 115 being connected to the control unit, the line 114 processing incoming signals, the line 113 processing control signals from the control unit and the connection 115, for example, by means of a data bus establishes a connection to other electronic units.

To start or start the vehicle essentially from a standing position or from a slow rolling movement, such as creeping movement, that is to say to accelerate the vehicle in a targeted manner initiated by the driver, the driver essentially operates only the accelerator pedal, such as the load lever 30 , the controlled or regulated one Automated clutch actuation by means of the actuator controls the transmissible torque of the torque transmission system during a start-up process. By actuating the load lever, the driver's desire for a more or less strong or rapid starting process is detected by means of the load lever sensor 31 and then controlled accordingly by the control unit. The accelerator pedal and the sensor signals of the accelerator pedal are used as input variables for controlling the starting process of the vehicle.

When starting, the transferable torque, such as clutch torque M _ksoll, is determined essentially by means of a function which can be predetermined or based on characteristic curves or maps, for example as a function of the engine speed, the dependence on the engine speed or on other variables such as the Engine torque, is advantageously realized via a map or a characteristic curve.

If the load lever or the accelerator pedal is actuated to a certain value a during a starting process, essentially from a standing position or from a creeping condition, at low speed, an engine torque is controlled by means of an engine control 40 . The control unit of the automati-based clutch actuation 13 controls the transferable torque of the torque transmission system according to predefinable functions or maps, so that a steady state of equilibrium is established between the actuated engine torque and the clutch torque. The equilibrium state is characterized as a function of the load lever position a by a defined starting speed, a starting or engine torque as well as a defined transferable torque of the torque transmission system and a torque transmitted to the drive wheels, such as drive torque. The functional relationship of the starting torque as a function of the starting speed is never referred to as starting characteristic in the following. The load lever position a is proportional to the position of the throttle valve of the engine.

Fig. 2 shows, in addition to the accelerator 122, such as load lever, and 123, a brake actuating member 120 parking brake one in related sensor to actuate the service brake or the parking brake as the brake pedal, hand lever or hand or foot-operated actuator of the solid. At least one sensor 121 is arranged on the actuating element 120 and monitors its actuation. The sensor 121 is designed, for example, as a digital sensor, such as a switch, which detects that the actuating element is actuated or is not actuated. With this sensor, a signal device, such as a brake light, can be in signal connection, which signals that the brake is actuated. This can be done for both the service brake and the parking brake. However, the sensor can also be designed as an analog sensor, such a sensor, such as a potentiometer, determining the degree of actuation of the actuating element. This sensor can also be in signal connection with a signal device.

The claims submitted with the application are drafted strikes without prejudice for obtaining further patent protection. The The applicant reserves the right to do so, so far only in the description and / or to claim the combination of features disclosed.  

Relationships used in subclaims point to further details formation of the subject of the main claim by the characteristics of each due subclaim; they are not a waiver of attainment an independent, objective protection for the combinations of features to understand the related subclaims.

Since the subjects of the subclaims with regard to the prior art reserves the right to make its own independent inventions on the priority date Applicant before becoming the subject of independent claims or part to make statements of compliance. You can also continue to invent independently containing one of the items in the previous sub-section have independent design.

The exemplary embodiments are not to be understood as a limitation of the invention hen. Rather, numerous Ab are within the scope of the present disclosure Changes and modifications possible, especially such variants, el elements and combinations and / or materials, for example by com combination or modification of individuals in connection with those in general NEN description and embodiments and the claims NEN and features or elements or ver contained in the drawings Driving steps for the specialist with a view to solving the task are removable and combinable features to a new counter  status or lead to new process steps or process step sequences, also insofar as they relate to manufacturing, testing and working processes.

Claims (41)

1. Method for operating a transmission device, which can be operated with different switching positions, and which

• - Has a selector lever that can be switched to different selector lever switch positions; such as
• - At least one movably arranged element, through the positioning of which the different switching positions of the transmission device can be switched;
• - A control device which can generate control signals according to a predetermined characteristic, which cause the movably arranged element to be loaded automatically, the control signals depending on the switching position of the selector lever; and
• - at least two position detection devices for recording the switching position of the selector lever,

with the steps:

• - Detection of the switching position of the selector lever with the first position detection device;
• - Redundant detection of the switching position of the selector lever with the second position detection device;
• - Generating the control signals for loading the at least one movably arranged element as a function of the detected selector lever switch position when both position detection devices indicate the identical and / or non-contradictory switching position under predetermined conditions and taking their respective detection accuracies into account; and
• - Control of the transmission device according to a predetermined He set characteristic when the position detection devices generate incorrect or ambiguous position values for the selector lever position.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the transmission an automated manual transmission or an automatic gearbox is drives. 3. The method, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the replacement characteristic specifies that the Control signals for loading the movably arranged ele depending on the last clearly identified selector lever switch position are generated. 4. Method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the control signals so long generated according to the replacement characteristic until determined is that the motor vehicle in which the gear device is attached is moving at a speed less than one predetermined speed or zero.   5. The method, in particular according to claim 4, characterized in that a control signal is generated which the transmission device in the neutral gear position and / or the selector lever in the selector lever neutral position moves when it is determined that one with a gear device provided motor vehicle at a speed is moved less than a predetermined speed or zero is. 6. The method, in particular according to claim 4, characterized in that a control signal is generated, which the clutch only accelerator pedal, such as accelerator pedal, engages and the clutch off moves if a vehicle brake is applied and / or the accelerator pedal is not activated. 7. The method, in particular according to at least one of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the driving speed of the motor vehicle stuff depending on at least one predetermined speed, esp a particular wheel speed or a gear speed is determined. 8. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that between the position Detection device and the control device electrical Posi tion signals can be transmitted. 9. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the position Detection device at least one device from a group of devices that have a CAN interface and / or egg NEN microprocessor and / or a rotation angle sensor and / or a Has shift register and / or a voltage divider device.   10. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that predetermined switching position conditions of the selector lever are detected several times, a first detection (Main detection) by means of a first position detection device is performed, and wherein a second detection (redundant detection sen) vorgenom by means of a second position detection device men will. 11. Method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the main entry with height accuracy is carried out as the redundant detection. 12. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the main registration by means of a position detection device is performed, which little at least an intelligent component, in particular a CAN interface, and / or at least one microprocessor and / or at least one Has shift register, and / or wherein the redundant detection is carried out by means of a position detection device, wel che has at least one voltage divider device. 13. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the position signal Transmission between the position detection device and the Control device serial and / or analog and / or by means of CAN Interface is carried out, in particular it is provided that the position signals relating to the main detection are serial or generated and / or transmitted via the CAN interface and the signals relating to the redundant acquisition are analog be transmitted.   14. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that within at least one of the position detection devices under predetermined conditions units a signal is transmitted without contact, this signal at least partially represents the selector lever switch position. 15. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that between the position Detection device and the control device under vorbe conditions at least a discrete and / or digital Position signal is transmitted. 16. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that at least one position Detection device can detect a plurality of individual signals, these individual signals are at least suitable, the selector lever to determine switch position insofar as depending on each of these Individual signals each the area in which the selector lever switch can be located, at least on a portion of this area can be restricted and these individual signals in little at least one signal or signal chain can be converted, which then from the position detector to the controller direction can be transferred and which of these individual items gnale or the position information of several of these individual signals sums up. 17. The method, in particular according to claim 16, characterized in that that a plurality of signals is detected as a single signal and as Si chain to the controller according to a predetermined characteristic transmission is transmitted at predetermined times.   18. The method, in particular according to at least one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the position Detection device to the control device a position signal can be transmitted, which the position information of all in the Position detection device detects individual signals that pass make the correct switching position of the selector lever identifiable. 19.Automated transmission device which can be operated in different switching positions, in which different ratios are switched between two shafts, with:

• - an actuator;
• - A switching device which has a movably arranged element which can be loaded by the actuating device and can be moved as a result of the load, so that the gear mechanism is operated in different switching positions;
• - A control device which can transmit a signal to the actuating device according to a predetermined characteristic, so that the actuating device in dependence on this signal loads the movably arranged element;
• - At least one selector lever, which is arranged movably and can be operated manually, so that it assumes different switching positions; and
• - At least one position detection device, which can detect the shaft position of the selector lever and can transmit at least one position signal to the control device, depending on which the control device can determine, according to a predetermined characteristic, in which switching position the selector lever is, at least one of which ser Position detection devices at least one intelligent component, in particular a CAN interface and / or at least one angle sensor and / or at least one microprocessor and / or at least one shift register and where at least one of these position detection devices may have a voltage divider device.

20. Gear device according to claim 18, characterized in that a position signal which is generated by at least one of the position Detection devices is transmitted to the control device, not at least partially within this signal transmission path mechanical, in particular electrical. 21. Gear device according to at least one of claims 19 and 20, characterized in that the gear device at least two Position detection devices for detecting the selector lever shift position, at least one of which is a main Position detection device and at least one redundancy Position detection device is. 22. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 21, characterized in that the main Position detection device a security device, in particular which has a fuse, which in particular for Protection of the control device is provided. 23. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 22, characterized in that the redundancy Position detection device on a voltage divider device  points, the selector lever switch position depending on this Voltage divider device with applied electrical voltage can be communicated. 24. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 23, characterized in that the redundancy Position detection device at least one electrical protection has circuit device, which prevents currents hen that are larger than a predetermined current. 25. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 24, characterized in that the main Position detection device and / or the redundancy Position detection device at least one switching position from a Group of selector lever switch positions can detect the Selector lever switch positions "reverse", "neutral", "drive", "manual", "Tiptronic plus", "Tiptronic minus", "Sport operation", "Winter operation" points. 26. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 25, characterized in that the redundancy Position detection device can detect fewer switching positions as the main position detector. 27. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 26, characterized in that the redundancy Position detection device only the positions and / or switching points Lungs "forward", "backward" and "neutral" and / or under can divorce. 28. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 27, characterized in that within the main  Position detection device under predetermined conditions at least one signal is transmitted without contact. 29. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 28, characterized in that an Si Gnalgeber, in particular a magnetic device, is arranged, wel che with a movement of the selector lever with this according to one certain characteristic is moved. 30. Gear device, in particular according to claim 29, characterized records that the signal detection means a plurality of digi tal switch, each having a predetermined selection assigned switch position according to a predetermined characteristic are, each of these switches output a first digital signal when the selector lever in this switch position to which the switch is assigned is located, and each of these digital switches is a second digital outputs if the selector lever is outside of this switch position. 31. Gear device, in particular according to claim 30, characterized records that the switches are arranged essentially on a circuit board are. 32. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 19 to 31, characterized in that the control device a position signal from the main Position detection device and from the redundancy Position detection device can receive and depending this position signal a selector lever switch position according to a certain characteristic as given, depending on wel cher transmits signals to the actuator.   33. Gear device, in particular according to claim 32, characterized records that the control means that from the position signals the main position detection device and the redundancy Position detection device displayed switching positions of the Control device used under predetermined conditions, to send signals to the actuators depending on this selector lever switch position transmission device when the signals of the main position Detection and the redundancy position detection an identical Show switching position of the selector lever. 34. Gear device, in particular according to at least one of the claims che 32 and 33, characterized in that the control device the signals transmitted from it to the actuating device in Ab dependence of the selector lever switch position generated, depending on which it generated at least the previous signal when the main Position detection device and the redundancy Position detection device different selector lever switch representations and / or at least one of these position Detection devices has failed and / or both position Recordings have failed. 35. Automated transmission device for performing a method according to at least one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the transmission device can be operated in different switching positions, in which different ratios are switched between two shafts, and wherein the transmission device

• - an actuator;
• - A switching device with a movably arranged el element, which can be loaded by the actuating device and the load can be moved as a result, so that the gear device is operated in different switching positions;
• - A control device which can transmit a signal to the actuating device according to a predetermined characteristic, so that the actuating device in dependence on this signal loads the movably arranged element;
• - At least one selector lever, which is movably arranged and can be operated manually, so that it assumes different switching positions; and
• - At least one position detection device which can detect the switching position of the selector lever;

having. 36. Use of a method according to at least one of the claims che 1 to 19 for operating a motor vehicle. 37. Use of a transmission device according to at least one of the Claims 19 to 35 for operating a motor vehicle. 38. Method or gear device, characterized by its be special mode of operation and design according to the vorlie registration documents. 39. Method or gear device, characterized by at least a feature from at least one of the preceding claims and / or by the combination of at least two features that derive from at least one of the preceding claims, and / or by at least one feature as described and / or by the combination of at least one feature of  Description with at least one feature according to at least one of the preceding claims and / or by at least one feature according to at least one figure of this application and / or by little least a single feature according to the present application. 40. Method or gear device, characterized by the combination nation from at least one feature according to the figures and / or at least one feature as described and / or little least one feature according to at least one claim. 41. Method or gear device according to at least two of the foregoing outgoing claims.