This invention relates to push-pull cable remote actuator apparatus, and more particularly to an improved motor truck remote gear shift system including novel apparatus operable to convert and transmit the two-dimensionally defined actuator (gear shift lever) motions, into components transmittable by the two cable, and upon such transmission to reconvert the transmitted components into a duplication of the actuator motions for remote selective actuation of the gear selector/shifter mechanism in a motor truck drive transmission. The invention is herein illustratively described by reference to the presently preferred embodiment thereof so applied; however, it will be recognized that certain modifications and changes therein with respect to details may be made and that other applications of the invention apparatus are contemplated without departing from the essential features involved.
In a cab-over motor truck in which the cab hinges upwardly and forwardly so as to provide access to the underlying engine and transmission, an elongated articulated or flexible operating connection is required between the chassis-mounted drive gear transmission unit and the gear shift lever or actuator situated in the cab of the truck. Such connecting mechanisms heretofore provided have generally employed rigid links or shafts and thus have been relatively bulky and expensive. The relatively low cost, compactness and flexibility of push-pull cables serving as remote control couplers suits them for this assignment. However, since the motions to be transmitted are complex (i.e., defined two-dimensionally), the cables flexible and resilient, and the forces substantial, an improperly designed cable system can be objectionable in its indefinite remote positioning effect and in its springy or mushy feel sensation afforded to the operator through the gear shift lever actuator. Accordingly, a broad object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved push-pull cable remote actuator mechanism overcoming such limitations and objections. A related object is to devise such a dual push-pull cable remote actuation apparatus incorporating motion-converting master and slave units of relatively simple and compact form easily installed in new and existing trucks and for other applications.
Still another object of this invention is to provide remote actuation apparatus having the aforementioned advantages and incorporating master and slave units which are readily fully lubricated and which incorporate motion translator members designed for ease of operation through all motion sequences and subject to minimal wear and frictional restraint, thereby assuring operating effectiveness, reliability and long operating life.
A further object hereof is to provide a push-pull cable remote actuation system in which the master and slave unit translator members interconnected by dual push-pull cables provide both positive control and a feel sensation of definite positional control of the actuated mechanism, e.g. the gear selector and shifting mechanism of the remote transmission unit.