Shift-by-wire is anautomotive concept or system that employs electrical or electronic connections that replace themechanical connection between the driver'sgearshift mechanism and thetransmission. Since becoming commercially available in 1996, shift-by-wire has been commonly used inautomated manual transmission and has later been implemented insemi-automatic transmission andautomatic transmission.[1]
Dispensing with gearshift mechanical linkages has several advantages: it reduces complexity and simplifies assembly; reduces the force required to shift gears and allows it to be customized withhaptic technology; allows for moreinterior design freedom in the placement of the gearshift mechanism; allows for automation of the engagement of theparking brake and other functions; reduces cabin noise by eliminating the acoustic linkage between the transmission and the gear shift; and by reducing floor openings it improves thecrash behavior of the vehicle.[1]
With a mechanical connection, the gearshift selector always matches the engaged transmission gear. With shift-by-wire, safety mechanisms need to be put in place. The system needs to block incorrect input and "guide" the gearshift back to a position that matches the state of the transmission in case of error. Another solution is to separate the gearshift selector from the gear indicator, meaning the driver has to visually monitor which gear is actually engaged, for instance on a display. Safety considerations requireredundancy in the gearshift and transmission sensors and in thevehicle communication network.[1]
Apark by wire system engages theparking pawl of a transmission using electrical means, without the traditional mechanical system which involves linkages between the gear shifter and the transmission. Park-by-wire can be considered a part of ashift by wire system, as it shifts the transmission into park mode.[1] The main components of a park by wire system include the driver interface which could be a lever, switch, or knob; anelectronic control unit; and actuators which are capable of driving the parking pawl into and out of the locking position with the parking gear of the transmission.[2][better source needed]
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