JP5048574B2 - Operation position detecting device and shift device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an operation position detection device and a shift device that detect an operation position of an operation member such as a shift lever.

  Conventionally, some shift devices have a plurality of shift modes for switching the connection state of the transmission. For example, in the shift device described in Patent Document 1, the normal mode in which each position (D: drive, R: reverse, etc.) of the automatic transmission can be switched and the transmission gears of each stage are sequentially (stepwise). There are two shift modes, a switchable manual mode.

  Specifically, in this shift device, the shift gate on which the shift lever is disposed includes first and second gates that correspond to the two shift modes and extend substantially in parallel, and a third gate that is orthogonal to the first and second gates. The shift lever is provided so as to be movable along each of the gates. The shift device also includes an operation position detection device for detecting the operation position of the shift lever. The operating position detecting device is connected to a shift lever and swings in the extending direction of the first and second gates by the shifting operation, and swings in the extending direction of the third gate by the selecting operation. A second oscillating member and two non-contact type rotation detecting sensors for detecting the oscillation of the first and second oscillating members are provided. The shift operation position in each shift mode is detected by detecting the swing angle of the first swing member with the first rotation detection sensor, and the swing angle of the second swing member with the second rotation detection sensor. By detecting the selection operation position.

In addition, each rotation detection sensor is provided with two sensor elements that individually detect the operation of the shift lever in each direction so as to ensure the reliability of detection of the operation position of the shift lever. For this reason, for example, when one of the sensor elements fails, detection signals having different values are output from the two sensor elements. Based on this, it is possible to detect a failure of the sensor element. .
JP 2003-154869 A

  By the way, from the viewpoint of mounting on a vehicle, there is still a high demand for downsizing various devices mounted on the vehicle, and the shift device is no exception. However, since the conventional operation position detection device using the rotation detection sensor requires one rotation detection sensor for each movement direction of the shift lever, the operation of the shift lever operated in two directions orthogonal to each other as described above. In order to detect the position, it is necessary to separately provide at least two rotation detection sensors. For this reason, it is necessary to secure the installation space of the rotation detection sensor and its wiring space at a plurality of locations in the shift device, which hinders downsizing of the shift device.

  Further, the operation position detection device using the conventional rotation detection sensor cannot identify which sensor element is faulty when one of the two sensor elements fails. For this reason, in the case where high detection reliability with respect to the input operation position is required, such as an operation position detection device that detects the operation position of the shift lever, only the failure of one sensor element is detected. In some cases, the detection of the operation position may be disabled in spite of the fact that the detection by the sensor element is possible. In this case, for example, since the shift device forcibly switches the connection state of the automatic transmission to neutral, the vehicle cannot travel. Note that such an operation position detection device is not limited to a shift device, and can be applied to an input device such as a joystick operated in a plurality of directions. In this case, there is a problem similar to that described above.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and its purpose is an operation capable of downsizing while ensuring redundancy for failure of one sensor element and detection reliability of an input operation position. An object of the present invention is to provide a position detection device and a shift device using the position detection device.

The invention according to claim 1 is provided so as to be movable between a plurality of predetermined positions in accordance with the operation of the operation member and is magnetized in a direction crossing the moving direction, and the magnetizing direction. And a plurality of magnetic detection means for outputting a detection signal corresponding to the direction of the magnetic flux applied to each of the detected objects according to the position of the detected object, and generated based on the detection signal Calculating means for obtaining a position of the detected object based on a combination of binarized signals, and the plurality of magnetic detecting means are configured such that the combination of the binarized signals is position information of the detected object. It is based on a Hamming code including a code and an error correction code for correcting an error of one binary signal of a combination of the binary signals unique to each predetermined position of the detected object. Established in The calculation means has error signal position information corresponding one-to-one with one error signal of the combination of the binarized signals corresponding to each predetermined position of the detected object based on the combination of the binarized signals. And specifying the error signal position of the combination of the binarized signals based on the error signal position information, correcting the binarized signal at the specified signal position, and a plurality of the magnetic detection means The two magnetic detection means are arranged so as to overlap each other when viewed from the magnetization direction of the detected object, and the two magnetic detection means output a detection signal having a value obtained by inverting the sign. And

According to the present invention, since the detected object is detected in any one of a plurality of predetermined positions based on the combination of the binarized signals output from the plurality of magnetic detection means, the operation of moving in two directions The position of the member can be detected by one detected object. Further, since the plurality of magnetic detection means are provided along a plane intersecting the magnetization direction, the operation position detection device in the input device can be concentrated. That is, unlike the prior art, it is not necessary to separately provide a detection target corresponding to each direction. Therefore, the input device can be reduced in size. In addition, since the plurality of magnetic detection means are provided so that the combination of the binarized signals output from them is compliant with the Hamming code, each of the predetermined objects of the detected object is utilized using this. One error in the binarized signal combination for the position is corrected. For this reason, the position of the detected object can be accurately detected even when the binarized signal output from one magnetic detection means has changed (inverted) due to, for example, failure of the magnetic detection means or noise. can do. That is, it is possible to ensure redundancy against an error in the binarized signal output from one magnetic detection means. Therefore, by using this operation position detection device, it is possible to reduce the size while ensuring the detection reliability of the input operation position.
In addition, since the two magnetic detection means are arranged so as to overlap each other when viewed from the magnetization direction of the detection object, it is possible to reduce the size of the operation position detection device in the direction along the movement direction of the detection object. it can.
Further, the two magnetic detection means output detection signals having values obtained by reversing positive and negative. Therefore, in a normal state where the two magnetic detection means output detection signals having appropriate values according to the position of the detected object, detection from one of the two magnetic detection means is performed. The signal is, for example, “0”, and the detection signal from the other magnetic detection means is, for example, “1”. Therefore, when one set of magnetic detection means is defined by the two magnetic detection means, for example, the number of bits that are “0” in the combination of detection signals output from four sets of magnetic detection means, and “1” The abnormality of three or more magnetic detection means can be detected based on the number of bits.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the plurality of magnetic detection means, a combination of the binarized signals is a position code that is position information of the detected object, and the two of the two detection signals for each predetermined position of the detected object. An error correction code for correcting one error in the combination of the binary signals, and an error detection code for detecting two errors in the combination of the binary signals for each predetermined position of the detection target The arithmetic means is provided so as to be compliant with an extended Hamming code, and the calculation means is configured to perform the calculation for each predetermined position of the detected object based on the error signal position information generated based on the combination of the binarized signals. The gist of the present invention is to detect an error in two binarized signals in a combination of binarized signals.

  According to the present invention, the plurality of magnetic detection means are arranged so that the combination of the binarized signals conforms to the extended Hamming code. Two errors in the combination of binarized signals for each predetermined position are detected. For this reason, it is possible to detect that two of the magnetic detection means constituting the operation position detection device have failed.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the detected object is provided so as to be movable in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and the magnetic detection means includes the first direction. The gist of the present invention is that a plurality of the first and second directions are provided along the second direction and the second direction.

  According to the present invention, the predetermined position can be set at a plurality of locations along the first direction, and the predetermined position can be set at a plurality of locations along the second direction orthogonal to the first direction. can do. For this reason, by selecting the predetermined position according to the operation pattern of the operation member, it is possible to cope with a plurality of types of operation patterns. Therefore, versatility is improved.

The invention according to claim 4 includes an operation member operated to a plurality of operation positions set along the shift gate, and an operation position detection device that detects an operation position of the operation member, and detects the operation position. A shift device that switches a connection state of a transmission of a vehicle based on a detection result of the device, the gist of which is that the operation position detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is adopted.

  According to the present invention, the shift device can be downsized by obtaining the same operation as that of the first aspect. In addition, even when one magnetic detection means fails, the position of the detection target can be accurately detected, so that the detection of the position of the operation member can be continued. Therefore, even if one magnetic detection means is out of order, the vehicle can continue to travel.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain an operation position detection device that can be reduced in size while ensuring redundancy for failure of one sensor element and detection reliability of an input operation position, and a shift device using the operation position detection device.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is embodied in a by-wire shift device that switches a connection state of an automatic transmission of a vehicle by electric control will be described with reference to the drawings.
As shown in FIG. 1, the shift device 1 is installed on a steering column 2 on which a steering wheel W is installed. The shift device 1 includes a shift lever 3 as an operation member protruding from the opening 2a on the left side surface of the steering column 2, and a shift device main body 4 disposed in the steering column 2 so as to correspond to the opening 2a. And. The base end portion of the shift lever 3 is supported by the shift device main body 4, and an operation knob 3 a that is gripped by the driver is formed at the distal end portion. The operation knob 3a is provided with a parking switch 3b.

  The shift lever 3 includes a shift panel 5 fixed to the steering column 2 so as to cover the opening 2a. The shift lever 3 is provided so as to be movable between shift positions set at a plurality of positions in the shift gate 6 along the shift gate 6 formed in the shift panel 5. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the shift gate 6 is a T-type, and the first gate 6 a extends in the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as the shift direction) along the circumferential direction of the steering column 2. And a second gate 6b extending from a substantially central portion of the first gate 6a to the vehicle front side in a direction orthogonal to the first gate 6a (hereinafter referred to as a select direction). The length of the second gate 6b is about half that of the first gate 6a. The shift direction corresponds to the first direction, and the select direction corresponds to the second direction.

  In the present embodiment, the position corresponding to the end of the second gate 6b on the vehicle front side is the neutral position “T”, the position where the second gate 6b and the first gate 6a intersect is the neutral position “N”, and the first gate. The position corresponding to the upper end of 6a is set to the reverse position “R”, and the position corresponding to the lower end of the first gate 6a is set to the drive position “D”. The shift lever 3 is elastically held at the neutral position T by the shift device body 4, and after operating from the neutral position T to each shift position, when the operating force is released, the shift lever 3 returns to the neutral position T again. The driver grips the operation knob 3a and pulls the shift lever 3 toward the driver side, operates the neutral lever T to the neutral position N, and then moves the shift lever 3 to the upper reverse position R or the lower drive. Operate to position D.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the shift device main body 4 includes a case 7 fixed inside the steering column 2. The case 7 is formed in a substantially box shape that opens to the front side of the vehicle, and forms a lower case 7a of the case 7 on the vehicle rear side (steering wheel W side), and the lower case 7a on the vehicle front side of the lower case 7a. The upper case 7b is formed in a substantially box shape that opens to the rear side of the vehicle and is fixed so as to cover the opening. The lower case 7a and the upper case 7b are formed by magnesium die casting. As shown in FIG. 4, a connector portion 8 is provided at a lower right side (lower left side in FIG. 4) in the case 7 when viewed from the driver's seat side. The connector portion 8 has a bottomed rectangular tube shape that opens to the outside of the case 7 and protrudes toward the vehicle front side through an opening portion 7c provided in a lower portion of the upper case 7b. The connector portion 8 is provided with a connector terminal 8a in a manner derived from the bottom surface.

Next, a support structure for the shift lever 3 provided in the case 7 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 5, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped block 11 extending along the axial direction of the shift lever 3 is provided integrally with the shift lever 3 at the base end portion of the shift lever 3. The block 11 is supported by the case 7 via a bracket 12 having a substantially rectangular tube shape that opens in the left-right direction.

  Specifically, the block 11 is inserted into the bracket 12 in the left-right direction. The block 11 is formed with an insertion hole 11a having a circular cross section in the shift direction. The insertion hole 11 a is provided in a portion on the left side (right side in FIG. 5) from the center of the block 11. On the upper and lower walls 12a and 12b of the bracket 12, through holes 12c having a circular cross section are provided. Each through-hole 12c is provided in a portion corresponding to the insertion hole 11a in a state where the block 11 is accommodated in the bracket 12. The first rotating shaft 13 is inserted through the block 11 from the lower side in the figure in a state where the insertion hole 11a and the through hole 12c are arranged in the bracket 12 so as to coincide with each other. The first rotating shaft 13 is fixed to the insertion hole 11 a of the block 11 and is rotatably supported by the through hole 12 c of the bracket 12. Therefore, the block 11 (shift lever 3) is rotatable in the select direction about the first axis L1 that is the central axis of the first rotation shaft 13 with respect to the bracket 12 (see FIG. 6).

  Here, as shown in FIG. 6, a stopper portion 11 b that protrudes to the rear side of the vehicle is provided on the rear side surface of the block 11 on the right side (left side in FIG. 6) of the first rotating shaft 13. For this reason, the stopper portion 11b abuts on the inner surface of the rear wall portion 12d of the bracket 12, thereby causing the block 11 to move toward the rear side of the vehicle around the first rotation shaft 13 (counterclockwise in FIG. 6). ) Is restricted. Further, a notch 12e is formed in a right portion of the wall portion on the front side (the upper side in FIG. 6) of the bracket 12. Therefore, the block 11 is allowed to rotate in the vehicle front side (clockwise direction in FIG. 6) about the first axis L1.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a substantially cylindrical second rotating shaft portion 12 f extending to the rear side of the vehicle is erected on the left side (right side in FIG. 6) of the rear outer surface of the bracket 12. The second rotation shaft portion 12f is formed such that its central axis intersects the first axis L1 that is the central axis of the first rotation shaft 13 at a right angle. Further, an arcuate convex portion 12g having an arc shape centering on the second axis L2 is formed on the rear outer side surface of the bracket 12 on the right side (left side in FIG. 6) of the second rotating shaft portion 12f. Yes. On the other hand, a bearing concave portion 7e having a circular cross section corresponding to the second rotating shaft portion 12f is formed in the bottom portion 7d on the rear side of the case 7 (lower case 7a). Further, an arc-shaped concave portion 7f having a wider range than the arc-shaped convex portion 12g is formed at a portion corresponding to the arc-shaped convex portion 12g in the bottom portion on the front side of the case 7 (upper case 7b). Then, in a state where the upper case 7b and the lower case 7a are fixed to each other, the second rotary shaft portion 12f and the arc-shaped convex portion 12g are supported by the bearing concave portion 7e and the arc-shaped concave portion 7f, respectively, so that the bracket 12 is It is supported so as to be rotatable in the shift direction about the second axis L2 that is the central axis of the portion 12f (see FIG. 5).

  Therefore, the shift lever 3 rotates in the select direction about the first axis L1 along the shift gate 6 with respect to the case 7, and the shift direction about the second axis L2 orthogonal to the first axis L1. It rotates in the circumferential direction of the steering column. Further, as described above, since the rotation of the block 11 with respect to the case 7 with respect to the case 7 around the first rotating shaft 13 is restricted, the vehicle in the select direction around the first axis L1 of the shift lever 3 is restricted. The rotation to the front side is restricted.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, a detent pin holding portion 14 that opens to the opposite side to the shift lever 3 is recessed at the right end (left side in FIG. 5) of the block 11. The detent pin holding portion 14 is formed in a circular cross section, and a linear linear groove portion 14a extending along the axial direction is recessed in the inner peripheral surface thereof. In the detent pin holding part 14, a spring 15 and a detent pin 16 are arranged in order from the bottom side of the detent pin holding part 14.

  One end of the spring 15 is held by a spring holding portion 14 b provided at the bottom of the detent pin holding portion 14, and the other end is held by a holding recess 16 a provided at the end surface of the detent pin 16. The detent pin 16 is always urged in a direction protruding from the detent pin holding portion 14 by the elastic force of the spring 15.

  A portion of the detent pin 16 where the spring holding portion 14 b is provided is formed in a circular cross section having an outer diameter substantially equal to the inner diameter of the detent pin holding portion 14. The detent pin 16 is in a state in which the stopper portion 11b of the block 11 is in contact with the inner surface of the rear wall portion 12d of the bracket 12, and the center axis of the detent pin 16 is the first axis L1 and the second axis L2. Are held by the detent pin holding part 14 so as to be orthogonal to them at the intersection of the two. On the outer peripheral surface of the portion where the spring holding portion 14 b is provided in the detent pin 16, a linear linear convex portion 16 b extending along the axial direction of the detent pin 16 is provided. The detent pin 16 is held by the detent pin holding portion 14 in a state in which the linear convex portion 16b is disposed in the linear groove portion 14a. Thereby, the rotation of the detent pin 16 with respect to the block 11 is restricted. The detent pin 16 is held so as to be slidable in the axial direction with respect to the block 11.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a fitting portion 16c having a circular cross section having a smaller outer diameter than the portion where the spring holding portion 14b is provided at the distal end side (left side in FIG. 5) of the detent pin 16. Is provided. The distal end surface 16d of the fitting portion 16c is formed in a hemispherical shape protruding toward the distal end side, and a quadrangular prism-like shape extending along the axial direction of the detent pin 16 is formed at a portion corresponding to the top of the distal end surface 16d. A connecting portion 16e is provided.

  The fitting portion 16c is inserted into the guide recess 17a of the detent 17 fixed to the bottom 7d of the case 7, and slidably contacts the bottom surface 17b of the guide recess 17a. The connecting portion 16e is inserted into a guide hole 17c provided in the bottom surface 17b of the guide recess 17a, and a portion on the tip side protrudes to the opposite side of the bracket 12 of the detent 17 through the guide hole 17c. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the guide recess 17 a is formed in a substantially T shape when viewed from the detent pin 16 side, and extends in the shift direction along the rotation direction around the second axis L <b> 2 of the shift lever 3. A shift direction guide portion 18a that extends, and a select direction guide portion 18b that extends rearward from the substantially central portion of the shift direction guide portion 18a along the rotational direction around the first rotation shaft 13 of the shift lever 3. I have. The guide hole 17c is substantially T-shaped like the guide recess 17a.

  The bottom surface 17b of the guide recess 17a is closer to the center of the shift direction guide portion 18a as shown in FIG. 8, and further toward the tip side (rear side) of the select direction guide portion 18b as shown in FIG. 11 is inclined so as to be separated from 11.

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, the shift lever 3 is operated from the neutral position T to the neutral position N in the select direction, and the end of the block 11 opposite to the shift lever 3 is in the first rotation. When rotating forward about the shaft 13, the fitting portion 16c of the detent pin 16 is displaced in the displacement direction of the inner end portion of the block 11 along the selection direction guide portion 18b. At this time, as the fitting portion 16c is displaced in the displacement direction of the inner end portion of the block 11 along the selection direction guide portion 18b, the tip surface 16d of the fitting portion 16c contacts the bottom surface 17b of the guide concave portion 17a. And the distance between the blocks 11 gradually decreases. For this reason, the detent pin 16 is displaced to the side of the block 11 entering the detent pin holding portion 14 against the urging force of the spring 15. When the operating force is released in this state, the fitting portion 16c of the detent pin 16 is blocked by the elastic force of the spring 15 from the portion where the tip surface 16d of the fitting portion 16c contacts the bottom surface 17b of the guide recess 17a. 11 is moved along the select direction guide portion 18b to the tip end portion of the select direction guide portion 18b so that the distance to the head 11 increases. As a result, the shift lever 3 returns to the neutral position T.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11, the shift lever 3 is further operated from the neutral position N to the reverse position R or drive position D in the shift direction, and the block 11 rotates downward or upward about the second axis L2. Then, the fitting portion 16c of the detent pin 16 is displaced in the displacement direction of the inner end portion of the block 11 along the shift direction guide portion 18a. At this time, as the fitting portion 16c is displaced along the shift direction guide portion 18a in the displacement direction of the inner end portion of the block 11, the front end surface 16d of the fitting portion 16c comes into contact with the bottom surface 17b of the guide concave portion 17a. The distance between the part and the block 11 is gradually reduced. For this reason, the detent pin 16 is displaced to the side of the block 11 entering the detent pin holding portion 14 against the urging force of the spring 15. When the operating force is released in this state, the fitting portion 16c of the detent pin 16 is blocked by the elastic force of the spring 15 from the portion where the tip surface 16d of the fitting portion 16c contacts the bottom surface 17b of the guide recess 17a. 11 is moved along the shift direction guide portion 18a to a position where the shift direction guide portion 18a and the select direction guide portion 18b cross each other, and further moved to the distal end portion of the select direction guide portion 18b. To do. As a result, the shift lever 3 returns to the neutral position T. That is, when the detent pin 16 elastically supported by the spring 15 and the guide recess 17a of the detent 17 hold the shift lever 3 in the neutral position T and the operating force to the shift lever 3 is released, the shift is performed. A return mechanism for returning the lever 3 to the neutral position T is configured.

  When the shift lever 3 is operated from the neutral position T to the reverse position R and the drive position D, the shift lever 3 passes through the neutral position N of the shift gate 6, and the detent pin 16 is selected with the shift direction guide portion 18a. Get over the corner between the direction guide 18b. For this reason, the driver can obtain a sense of moderation when operating the shift lever 3. In other words, the detent pin 16 elastically supported by the spring 15 and the guide recess 17a of the detent 17 constitute a moderation mechanism that provides an operational feeling when operating the shift lever 3 at each shift position.

Next, the operation position detection device 20 that detects the shift position as the operation position of the shift lever 3 configured as described above will be described.
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a magnet holder 21 is connected to the tip of the detent pin 16. The magnet holder 21 is formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape, and moves along a plane direction intersecting the axial direction of the detent pin 16 by a slider 22 fixed to the right side of the detent 17 at the bottom 7d of the case 7. Supported as possible.

  A holder through hole 21 a is formed in the magnet holder 21. On the surface of the magnet holder 21 on the detent pin 16 side, a substantially cylindrical detent pin connecting portion 21b is provided around the holder through hole 21a. An engaging member 21c is fixed to the distal end side portion of the detent pin connecting portion 21b so as to cover the opening. The engaging member 21c is provided with an engaging hole 21d at a portion corresponding to the holder through hole 21a. The engaging hole 21d is formed in a square shape corresponding to the connecting portion 16e of the detent pin 16, and the connecting portion 16e extends along the engaging hole 21d in a state where the rotation with respect to the engaging member 21c is restricted. It is inserted so as to be displaceable in the axial direction. The connecting portion 16e of the detent pin 16 is inserted through the engagement hole 21d. For this reason, the detent pin 16 engages with the magnet holder 21 in the direction along the moving plane Q. Accordingly, when the shift lever 3 is operated and the connecting portion 16e of the detent pin 16 is displaced, the magnet holder 21 is displaced in the displacement direction in the direction along the moving plane Q.

  A substantially cylindrical magnet holding portion 21 e is provided on the surface of the magnet holder 21 opposite to the detent pin 16. Inside the magnet holding part 21e, a magnet 23 as a detected body constituting the operation position detecting device 20 is fixed. The magnet 23 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and is magnetized in a direction orthogonal to the moving plane Q.

  Two first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 constituting the operation position detecting device 20 are provided at a portion of the bottom portion 7d of the case 7 opposite to the shift lever 3 of the slider 22. The first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are each formed in a substantially flat plate shape and are provided in parallel with the moving plane Q of the magnet 23. The magnet 23 has an S pole on the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 side and an N pole on the opposite side.

  As shown in FIG. 12B, the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are mounted on one surface and the other surface of the substrate 30 and fixed to the lower case 7 a via the slider 22. Has been. The first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are each formed by packaging four magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 as their magnetic detection means together with their peripheral circuits. Is formed. The first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are provided such that the horizontal direction in FIG. 12A is the select direction, and the vertical direction in FIG. 12A is the shift direction. Yes. In the present embodiment, the eight magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are arranged so that the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output corresponding to the position of the magnet 23 conforms to the extended Hamming code. Has been.

  The first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are arranged in the case 7 so that the center position of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 and the magnet 23 in the case where the shift lever 3 is disposed at the neutral position N. The center M is arranged so as to coincide. The magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are arranged so as to make a pair with the movement center (movement locus of the center M) when the magnet 23 moves. Has been. Specifically, the first magnetoresistive element 31 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 is at the upper left corner in FIG. 12A, and the second magnetoresistive element 32 is at the lower left side in FIG. 12A. The third magnetoresistive element 33 is provided at the upper right corner in FIG. 12A, and the fourth magnetoresistive element 34 is provided at the lower right corner in FIG. 12A. Yes. The fifth magnetoresistive element 35 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 is at the upper left corner in FIG. 12A, and the sixth magnetoresistive element 36 is at the lower left corner in FIG. 12A. The seventh magnetoresistive element 37 is provided at the upper right corner in FIG. 12A, and the eighth magnetoresistive element 38 is provided at the lower right corner in FIG. 12A. The first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and the fifth to eighth magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 are arranged so as to overlap each other when viewed from the direction orthogonal to the moving plane Q (see FIG. 12B). ).

  In the present embodiment, as described above, since the magnet 23 is magnetized in the direction orthogonal to the moving plane Q, the plane Q1 including the detection surfaces of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 includes A radial magnetic flux centering on the central axis of the magnet 23 is formed. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 12A, the second and sixth magnetoresistive elements 32 and 36 in the lower left region with respect to the central axis (center M) of the magnet 23 and the third in the upper right region. A magnetic field in the direction along the arrow A1 direction is applied to the seventh magnetoresistive elements 33 and 37. The first and fifth magnetoresistive elements 31 and 35 in the upper left region with respect to the central axis of the magnet 23 and the fourth and eighth magnetoresistive elements 34 and 38 in the lower right region have arrows. A magnetic field in a direction along the A2 direction is applied. That is, in the two regions that form a pair across the moving center of the magnet 23 in the plane Q1 including the detection surfaces of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38, the direction of the magnetic flux applied by the magnet 23 is the center M. The region on the one side in the moving direction is different from the region on the other side.

  For each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38, for example, a so-called MR sensor in which four magnetoresistors are connected in a bridge shape can be employed. The resistance value of the magnetoresistive changes according to the applied magnetic field (more precisely, the direction of the magnetic flux). The first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 input the midpoint potential (detection signal) of the bridge-shaped circuit described above to a comparator (not shown), thereby depending on the direction of the magnetic flux applied to their detection surfaces. A binarized signal having a value of “0” or “1” is generated and the binarized signal is output. In the present embodiment, the first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 have an angle of −45 degrees (+135 degrees) with respect to the shift direction in the direction of the magnetic flux applied thereto. An analog signal having a period of 180 degrees, which takes a minimum value (bottom) when making an angle and takes a maximum value (peak) when forming an angle of +45 degrees (+225 degrees) with respect to the shift direction, is output. Accordingly, the signal waveforms of the first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 have the minimum value (bottom) when the magnetic flux along the direction of the arrow A1 in FIG. When a magnetic flux along the direction of arrow A2 is applied in a), the maximum value (peak) is taken. On the other hand, the fifth to eighth magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 have a maximum value when the direction of the magnetic flux applied thereto forms an angle of −45 degrees (+135 degrees) with respect to the shift direction. When the (peak) is at an angle of +45 degrees (+225 degrees) with respect to the shift direction, an analog signal having a minimum value (bottom) and a period of 180 degrees is output. Accordingly, the signal waveforms of the fifth to eighth magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 have the maximum values (peaks) when the magnetic flux along the direction of the arrow A1 in FIG. When a magnetic flux is applied along the direction of arrow A2 in a), the minimum value (bottom) is taken. That is, the fifth to eighth magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 are values obtained by inverting the positive and negative of the detection signals of the first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 of the first magnetic sensor module 24, respectively. The detection signal is output. A comparator (not shown) compares the midpoint potential (detection signal) output from each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 with a preset threshold value, and generates a binarized signal. This threshold value is for determining whether the center of the magnet 23 is on one side or the other side of each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 in the moving direction. In the present embodiment, the value of the detection signal output from each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 when a magnetic flux in the direction along the shift direction or the select direction is applied to each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38. It is preset as a threshold value. The comparator compares the detection signal output from each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 with a preset threshold value. When the detection signal is larger than the threshold value, “1”, and when the detection signal is smaller than the threshold value Generates and outputs binarized signals S1 to S8 having a value of “0”.

  As shown in FIG. 13, each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 is connected to a connector terminal (not shown) on the vehicle side based on the connection of the connector portion 8 to a connector (not shown) on the vehicle side. Individually connected to a controller 39 as a calculation means provided outside the case 7. The power supply lines 24 a and 25 a and the ground lines 24 b and 25 b of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are individually provided for the magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25. The parking switch 3b is electrically connected to the controller 39 based on the connection of the connector portion 8 to the vehicle-side connector, like the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38.

  Specifically, the controller 39 is a computer unit including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like (not shown), and is based on a combination of binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38. The position of the magnet 23 on the moving plane Q is detected, and the position of the shift lever 3 is detected. Further, the controller 39 detects the pressing operation of the parking switch 3b based on the operation signal S9 output from the parking switch 3b. And the controller 39 switches the connection state of the automatic transmission of the vehicle which is not shown based on the detection result.

Here, combinations of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 in accordance with the position of the shift lever 3 (magnet 23) will be described.
As described above, since the magnet 23 is magnetized in the direction orthogonal to the moving plane Q, the plane Q1 including the detection surfaces of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 is centered on the central axis of the magnet 23. Radial magnetic flux is formed. The first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 output binarized signals S1 to S8 having values corresponding to the position of the center M of the magnet 23.

  For example, when the shift lever 3 is in the neutral position T, as shown in FIG. 14, the center M of the magnet 23 is located at the rear position P2 in the select direction with respect to the centers of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25. Be placed. In this case, the value of the binarized signal S1 of the first magnetoresistive element 31 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 is “0”, the value of the binarized signal S2 of the second magnetoresistive element 32 is “1”, the third The value of the binarized signal S3 of the magnetoresistive element 33 is “0”, and the value of the binarized signal S4 of the fourth magnetoresistive element 34 is “1”. The value of the binarized signal S5 of the fifth magnetoresistive element 35 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 is “1”, the value of the binarized signal S6 of the sixth magnetoresistive element 36 is “0”, and the seventh magnetic The value of the binarized signal S7 of the resistor element 37 is “1”, and the value of the binarized signal S8 of the eighth magnetoresistive element 38 is “0”.

  When the shift lever 3 is operated to the neutral position N, the center M of the magnet 23 is disposed at a position P5 that coincides with the centers of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25. In this case, the value of the binarized signal S1 of the first magnetoresistive element 31 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 is “1”, the value of the binarized signal S2 of the second magnetoresistive element 32 is “0”, the third The value of the binarized signal S3 of the magnetoresistive element 33 is “0”, and the value of the binarized signal S4 of the fourth magnetoresistive element 34 is “1”. Further, the value of the binarized signal S5 of the fifth magnetoresistive element 35 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 is “0”, the value of the binarized signal S6 of the sixth magnetoresistive element 36 is “1”, and the seventh magnetic The value of the binarized signal S7 of the resistor element 37 is “1”, and the value of the binarized signal S8 of the eighth magnetoresistive element 38 is “0”.

  When the shift lever 3 is operated to the reverse position R, the center M of the magnet 23 is disposed at a position P6 that is lower in the shift direction than the centers of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25. In this case, the value of the binarized signal S1 of the first magnetoresistive element 31 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 is “1”, the value of the binarized signal S2 of the second magnetoresistive element 32 is “1”, the third The value of the binarized signal S3 of the magnetoresistive element 33 is “0”, and the value of the binarized signal S4 of the fourth magnetoresistive element 34 is “0”. The value of the binarized signal S5 of the fifth magnetoresistive element 35 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 is “0”, the value of the binarized signal S6 of the sixth magnetoresistive element 36 is “0”, and the seventh magnetic The value of the binarized signal S7 of the resistive element 37 is “1”, and the value of the binarized signal S8 of the eighth magnetoresistive element 38 is “1”.

  Further, when the shift lever 3 is operated to the drive position D, the center M of the magnet 23 is disposed at a position P4 above the center of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 in the shift direction. In this case, the value of the binarized signal S1 of the first magnetoresistive element 31 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 is “0”, the value of the binarized signal S2 of the second magnetoresistive element 32 is “0”, the third The value of the binarized signal S3 of the magnetoresistive element 33 is “1”, and the value of the binarized signal S4 of the fourth magnetoresistive element 34 is “1”. The value of the binarized signal S5 of the fifth magnetoresistive element 35 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 is “1”, the value of the binarized signal S6 of the sixth magnetoresistive element 36 is “1”, and the seventh magnetic The value of the binarized signal S7 of the resistance element 37 is “0”, and the value of the binarized signal S8 of the eighth magnetoresistive element 38 is “0”.

  Thus, in each of the positions of the shift lever 3, the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S4 output from the first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 of the first sensor module 24 and the second magnetic sensor module. The combinations of the binarized signals S5 to S8 output from the 25th to 8th magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 are all different. In the memory 39a of the controller 39, positions P2, P4, P5 and P6 of the magnet 23 corresponding to the position of the shift lever 3 and combinations of binarized signals from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are stored. It is stored in association. The controller 39 detects the operation position of the shift lever 3 based on the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38. Further, as described above, the power supply lines 24 a and 25 a and the ground lines 24 b and 25 b of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are individually provided for the magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25. When the power supply line 24a, 25a or the ground line 24b, 25b of one magnetic sensor module 24, 25 is disconnected, the controller 39 is based on the combination of binarized signals output from the other magnetic sensor module 24, 25. The operating position of the shift lever 3 is detected.

  Further, all combinations of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are different for each position of the magnet 23 at a plurality of positions in the select direction and the shift direction. Therefore, by selecting the positions P1 to P7 of the magnet 23 and the combinations of the binarized signals from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 in association with each other in the memory 39a of the controller 39, the select direction and shift The positions of the magnets 23 at a plurality of locations in the direction can be detected. As shown in FIG. 15, when the magnets 23 are arranged at seven positions, the combinations of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are different. In the embodiment, up to seven operation positions of the shift lever 3 can be set. In FIG. 15, the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are represented by letters “MR1” to “MR8”, respectively.

  By the way, when the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are normal, the combination is a combination of binarized signals corresponding to the position of the magnet 23 assumed in advance. It applies to either. Therefore, when the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 does not apply to the combination of the binarized signals assumed in advance, the position of the magnet 23 is The binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are not normal.

  In the operation position detection device 20 of the present embodiment configured as described above, the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 have combinations of binarized signals output from them that conform to the Hamming code. It is provided as follows. The Hamming code is used as a technique for correcting a code error that occurs in a communication channel during data communication and improving communication reliability. In the present embodiment, by using this Hamming code, the binary values output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 for the “normal combination of binarized signals” corresponding to the position of the magnet 23 are used. It is possible to correct one error of the combination of the digitized signals S1 to S8. When switching the connection state of the automatic transmission, it is determined whether or not there is an error in the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 with respect to the position of the magnet 23. If it is determined that there is an error, the error is corrected. Then, the controller 39 determines the position of the magnet 23 based on the corrected combination of binarized signals, and switches the connection state of the automatic transmission of the vehicle (not shown) to the connection state corresponding to the position of the magnet 23. Further, one error or 2 in the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 with respect to the “normal binarized signal combination” corresponding to the position of the magnet 23. It is possible to detect two errors. When one or two errors in the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are detected, the controller 39 passes through a not-shown notification device (for example, an indicator lamp). , To that effect. Further, when the controller 39 determines that the combination error of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 is uncorrectable, the connection state of the automatic transmission is set to neutral. Switch.

Here, an outline of the Hamming code will be described.
A Hamming code is obtained by adding redundant bits (check bits) to information bits (data bits) to be transmitted.
Code length: n = 2 ^m −1
Number of information: k = nm
Consists of. Here, the number of information k is the number of information bits, and the code length n is the number of bits constituting one code.

  When encoding information bits to be transmitted into a Hamming code or decoding a received code, processing is performed using a check matrix H and a generator matrix G. The check matrix H is a matrix of m rows and n columns, and satisfies the condition that all column elements are not 0 and are different. On the other hand, the generator matrix G is a matrix that satisfies the following expression (1) with the check matrix H and is not 0.

なお、Ｇ^Ｔは、生成行列Ｇの転置行列であり、Ｈ^Ｔは、検査行列Ｈの転置行列である。検査行列Ｈ及び生成行列Ｇの一例を、図１６に示す。

G ^T is a transposed matrix of the generator matrix G, and H ^T is a transposed matrix of the check matrix H. An example of the check matrix H and the generator matrix G is shown in FIG.

  When encoding information into a Hamming code, the generator matrix G is multiplied by the bit string x of the data to be transmitted. In addition, all the additions used in each matrix calculation are exclusive OR. On the other hand, when decoding the received code, the product of the check matrix H and the received code is obtained and decoded. In this case as well, all the additions used in each matrix calculation are exclusive OR. Here, assuming that the code received on the receiving side is Y, when there is no error in Y, Y is expressed by the following equation (2).

この受信した符号Ｙと、検査行列Ｈの転置行列との積は、式（１）より、以下の式（３）のようになる。

The product of the received code Y and the transposed matrix of the check matrix H is expressed by the following formula (3) from the formula (1).

即ち、受信した符号と検査行列の積が０（ゼロベクトル）であるなら誤りを含まないことになり、０でないなら誤りを含むことになる。

That is, if the product of the received code and the check matrix is 0 (zero vector), no error is included, and if it is not 0, an error is included.

  Here, for example, it is assumed that the received code Y includes a 1-bit error. In this case, the received code Y is expressed as the following equation (4).

なお、ｅ_ｉは誤りベクトルであり、ｉ番目のビットが１、それ以外のビットが０のビット列である。

_Ei is an error vector, and is a bit string in which the i-th bit is 1 and the other bits are 0.

At this time, the product of the received code Y and the transposed matrix H ^T of the check matrix is expressed by the following equation (5). In addition, all the additions used in each matrix calculation are exclusive OR.

ここで、ｅ_ｉはｉ番目のビットのみが１であるので、検査行列Ｈのｉ番目の列が出力されることになる。従って、この出力（以下、シンドロームという。）が検査行列Ｈの何列目と一致するかを比べることにより、送信された符号に対する受信した符号の誤りの位置が検出され、その部分のビットを反転することで誤りを訂正することができる。なお、誤り信号位置情報としてのシンドロームと誤りベクトルとの関係を図１７に示す。図１７では、ｉ番目のビットの値が誤っている（反転している）ことを、ｅ_ｉという文字で表している。誤りがない場合、シンドロームはゼロベクトル（００００）となる。また、１つの誤りが発生している場合（反転している場合）、シンドロームはゼロベクトルではなく、該シンドロームと単一の誤り信号の位置とが一対一で対応する。また、２つの誤りが発生している場合、シンドロームはゼロベクトルではなく、該シンドロームに対して複数組（この場合４組）の誤り信号の位置が対応する。従って、２つの誤りを検知することはできるが、該二値化信号の誤りを訂正することはできない。

Here, since only the i-th bit of e _i is 1, the i-th column of the check matrix H is output. Therefore, the position of the error of the received code with respect to the transmitted code is detected by comparing with what column of the check matrix H this output (hereinafter referred to as syndrome) matches, and the bit of that portion is inverted. By doing so, the error can be corrected. FIG. 17 shows the relationship between the syndrome as error signal position information and the error vector. In FIG. 17, the fact that the value of the i-th bit is incorrect (inverted) is represented by the letter e _i . If there is no error, the syndrome is a zero vector (0000). When one error has occurred (inverted), the syndrome is not a zero vector, and the syndrome and the position of a single error signal have a one-to-one correspondence. When two errors occur, the syndrome is not a zero vector, and the positions of a plurality of sets (in this case, four sets) of error signals correspond to the syndrome. Therefore, two errors can be detected, but the error of the binarized signal cannot be corrected.

  In the operation position detection device 20 according to the present embodiment, when such a Hamming code is used, the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 as shown in the left table of FIG. By arranging (assigning) as shown in the table on the right side of FIG. 15, a combination of binary signals conforming to the extended Hamming code in which the parity bit of the entire code is added to the Hamming code described above is generated. The table on the right side of FIG. 15 is a table in which combinations of binarized signals S1 to S8 output when the magnets 23 are arranged at seven positions are assigned so as to comply with the extended Hamming code.

  Specifically, in this example, the binarized signals output from the eight magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are respectively converted into four data bits, three check bits, and one parity bit constituting the extended Hamming code. Assigned as a value. The first to third check bits C1 to C3 and the first to fourth data bits D1 to D4 are assigned so that the relationships shown in the following equations (6) to (8) are established. ing.

本実施の形態では、第８，第７，第２，第４磁気抵抗素子３８，３７，３２，３４から出力される二値化信号Ｓ８，Ｓ７，Ｓ２，Ｓ４を、それぞれ第１〜第４データビットＤ１〜Ｄ４に割り当てている。また、第５、第３，第６磁気抵抗素子３５，３３，３６から出力される二値化信号Ｓ５，Ｓ３，Ｓ６を、それぞれ第１〜第３チェックビットＣ１〜Ｃ３に割り当てている。なお、第１〜第４データビットＤ１〜Ｄ４が、マグネット２３の位置情報である位置符号に相当し、第１〜第３チェックビットＣ１〜Ｃ３が、マグネット２３の位置に対する二値化信号の組み合わせの１つの誤りを訂正するための誤り訂正符号に相当する。また、二値化信号の組み合わせは、「１」であるビット数が常に偶数となるように変化する。本実施の形態では、第１磁気抵抗素子３１から出力される二値化信号Ｓ１を、パリティビットＣ４に割り当てている。なお、パリティビットＣ４が、マグネット２３の位置に対する二値化信号の組み合わせの２つの誤りを検知するための誤り検知符号に相当する。

In the present embodiment, the binarized signals S8, S7, S2, and S4 output from the eighth, seventh, second, and fourth magnetoresistive elements 38, 37, 32, and 34 are first to fourth, respectively. Data bits D1 to D4 are assigned. Also, the binarized signals S5, S3, and S6 output from the fifth, third, and sixth magnetoresistance elements 35, 33, and 36 are assigned to the first to third check bits C1 to C3, respectively. The first to fourth data bits D1 to D4 correspond to position codes that are position information of the magnet 23, and the first to third check bits C1 to C3 are combinations of binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23. This corresponds to an error correction code for correcting one error. The combination of the binarized signals changes so that the number of bits “1” is always an even number. In the present embodiment, the binarized signal S1 output from the first magnetoresistive element 31 is assigned to the parity bit C4. The parity bit C4 corresponds to an error detection code for detecting two errors in the combination of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the memory 39a of the controller 39 has a syndrome associated with a syndrome and a position of a single error signal for a combination of normal binarized signals corresponding to the positions P1 to P7 of the magnet 23. A table 41 is stored. This syndrome has a one-to-one correspondence with one error signal for a combination of normal binarization signals corresponding to each position of the magnet 23 (for example, position P6 when the shift lever 3 is in the reverse position R). That is, in the combination of eight binarized signals S1 to S8 indicating each position of the magnet 23, the syndrome generated when an error occurs in any one of the binarized signals has the error ( It differs for each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 assigned to the binarized signal that has been inverted. In FIG. 18, the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 assigned to the binarized signal in which an error has occurred are set to “1”, and the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 assigned to the normal binarized signal are set to “1”. 0 ”. When there is no error in the combination of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23, the syndrome becomes a zero vector (0000). When an error of one of the binarized signals S1 to S8 occurs in the combination of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23 (when inverted), the syndrome is not a zero vector and the syndrome of the syndrome table 41 Matches. Further, when an error occurs in the two binarized signals S1 to S8 in the combination of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23, the syndrome is not a zero vector and does not match the syndrome of the syndrome table 41. Therefore, an error in the two binarized signals S1 to S8 can be detected in the combination of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23, but the error in the binarized signals cannot be corrected.

When switching the connection state of the automatic transmission, first, the controller 39 performs an XOR (exclusive OR) operation on the combination of the binarized signals and the check matrix H (the transposed matrix H ^T of the check matrix H) to obtain each magnetic resistance. A syndrome as error signal position information is obtained from a combination of binarized signals output from the elements 31 to 38.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 19, for example, when the syndrome is a zero vector, the controller 39 determines that there is no error in the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8, and the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8. The position of the magnet 23 is determined based on the above. And the controller 39 switches the connection state of the automatic transmission of the vehicle which is not shown based on the determination result (detection result). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 20, when the syndrome is not a zero vector, the controller 39 compares the syndrome with the syndrome table 41 stored in the memory 39a, and the syndrome matches the syndrome in the syndrome table 41. Judge whether to do.

  Here, if the syndrome matches that stored in the memory 39a, the controller 39 determines that there is a single error in the combination of the binarized signals, and the single error is based on the syndrome table 41. An error signal position in a certain combination of binarized signals is specified and corrected. Then, the controller 39 determines the position of the magnet 23 based on the corrected combination of binarized signals, and switches the connection state of the automatic transmission of the vehicle (not shown) to the connection state corresponding to the position of the magnet 23. At this time, since the generated syndrome is not a zero vector, the controller 39 detects one error in the combination of the binarized signals for each position of the magnet 23. If one of the binarized signal combinations is incorrect, the controller 39 determines that one magnetic detection means has failed due to a failure, noise, or the like, and notifies the fact through the notification device.

  On the other hand, if the syndrome is not a zero vector and does not match the syndrome in the syndrome table 41, the controller 39 determines that the two magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 have failed, and notifies the fact through the notification device. The connection state of the automatic transmission is switched to neutral.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to detect the positions of the seven magnets 23 (P1 to P7). For this reason, by selecting the position of the magnet 23 corresponding to the operation position in accordance with the operation pattern of the shift lever 3 from among these seven places (P1 to P7), only the T type as in the present embodiment can be obtained. Not limited to this, a plurality of types of operation patterns such as h-type, H-type, and cross shape can be handled.

Next, the operation of the shift device 1 configured as described above will be described.
As shown in FIG. 19, when the binarized signals S1 to S8 from the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are normal, the syndrome generated by the controller 39 based on the combination of the binarized signals is a zero vector ( 0000). In this case, the controller 39 determines the position of the magnet 23 based on the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8, and switches the connection state of the automatic transmission of the vehicle (not shown).

  Here, as shown in FIG. 20, for example, the binarized signal S <b> 1 from the first magnetoresistive element 31 due to a failure of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38, noise, or the like when the shift lever 3 is in the reverse position R. Is inverted, the syndrome generated by the controller 39 based on the combination of the binarized signals becomes (0111), which matches the syndrome stored in the memory 39a of the controller 39. In this case, the controller 39 specifies the error signal position of the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 based on the error vector corresponding to the syndrome from the syndrome table 41 (here, the first), and inverts the bit at that position. (Here, “0” → “1”). Thereby, the binarized signal S1 of the first magnetoresistive element 31 is corrected. Then, the controller 39 determines the position of the magnet 23 based on the corrected binary signal combination. For this reason, even if the binarized signal from one magnetoresistive element 31 to 38 is inverted due to a failure, noise, or the like, the position of the magnet 23 can be correctly determined (if it is a single error). it can. Therefore, the shift position is erroneously determined due to a change in the output voltage of one of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 due to a failure of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 or a detection error due to noise or the like, and the transmission is inadvertently switched. Can be suppressed.

  At this time, since the syndrome generated by the controller 39 is not a zero vector, the controller 39 detects one error in the combination of the binarized signals for each position of the magnet 23. When the one error is detected, the controller 39 determines that one magnetic detection means has failed due to a failure, noise, or the like, and notifies the fact through the notification device. That is, it is possible to notify that one magnetic detection means has failed in a state where the position of the detection target can be accurately detected.

  Further, for example, when the shift lever 3 is in the reverse position R, the binarized signals S1 and S2 from the first and second magnetoresistive elements 31 and 32 are generated due to a failure of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38, noise, or the like. If it is reversed, the syndrome becomes (1010), which does not match the syndrome stored in the memory 39a of the controller 39. In this case, the controller 39 notifies the fact that the two magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 have failed through the notification device, and outputs a control signal to the automatic transmission to switch the connection state of the automatic transmission to neutral. The connection state of the automatic transmission is switched to neutral. From the above, the shift position is erroneously determined due to a change in the output voltage of one or two magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 due to a failure of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 or a detection error due to noise or the like, and the transmission Can be prevented from being inadvertently switched.

Next, the operational effects of the above embodiment will be described below.
(1) Based on the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output according to the direction of the magnetic field acting on the detection surfaces of the plurality of magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38, the magnet 23 is placed in any of a plurality of predetermined positions. It is detected whether there is any. Since the plurality of magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are provided along a plane that intersects the magnetization direction of the magnet 23, the operation position detection device 20 in the shift device 1 can be concentrated. That is, unlike the prior art, it is not necessary to separately provide detected bodies (magnets or the like) corresponding to each direction. Therefore, the shift device 1 can be downsized. In addition, since the plurality of magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are provided so that the combination of the binarized signals output from them is compliant with the extended Hamming code, the magnet is utilized. One error of the binarized signal combination for each of the 23 positions is corrected. For this reason, for example, even when the binarized signal output from one magnetoresistive element 31 to 38 is changed (inverted) due to failure or noise of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38, the binary value is changed. The change in the control signal is corrected, and the controller 39 can accurately detect the position of the magnet 23. That is, it is possible to ensure redundancy against errors in the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from one magnetoresistive element 31 to 38. Therefore, by using this operation position detection device 20, it is possible to reduce the size while ensuring the detection reliability of the shift device 1.

  (2) Since the position of the magnet 23 can be accurately detected even when one of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 fails, the detection of the position of the shift lever 3 can be continued. Therefore, even if one of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 breaks down, the vehicle can continue to travel. For example, if each rotation detection sensor is simply provided with three sensor elements, it is possible to correct an error of one binarized signal by majority logic. In this case, however, enlargement of each sensor physique can not deny.

  (3) Since one error in the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 for each position of the magnet 23 can be detected, the position of the magnet 23 can be accurately detected, that is, It is possible to detect that one of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 is in an unstable state due to a failure, noise, or the like in a state in which the vehicle continues to travel, and notify that fact.

  (4) In addition, since the plurality of magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are provided so that the combination of the binarized signals conforms to the extended Hamming code, the magnet 23 is utilized by utilizing this fact. Two errors in the combination of binarized signals for the position of are detected. For this reason, the controller 39 can detect that two of the plurality of magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 constituting the operation position detecting device 20 have failed.

  (5) Since a plurality of magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are provided along the shift direction and the select direction, respectively, the positions of the magnets 23 at a plurality of locations along the shift direction can be detected, and the select direction It is possible to detect the positions of the magnets 23 at a plurality of locations along the line. Therefore, it is possible to set the operation position of the shift lever 3 corresponding to the position of the magnet 23 at a plurality of locations in the shift direction and the selection direction, and by selecting the operation position according to the operation pattern of the shift lever 3 A plurality of types of operation patterns can be handled. Therefore, versatility is improved.

  (6) The first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 of the first magnetic sensor module 24 and the fifth to eighth magnetisms of the second magnetic sensor module 25 as viewed from the direction orthogonal to the moving plane Q of the magnet 23. Since the resistance elements 35 to 38 are arranged so as to overlap, the operation position detection device 20 in the direction along the moving plane Q can be reduced in size.

  (7) The fifth to eighth magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 are the binary signals S1 to S4 of the first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 of the first magnetic sensor module 24, respectively. The binarized signals S5 to S8 having values obtained by inverting the positive and negative values are output. Therefore, in the normal state where the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 output the binarized signals S1 to S8 having appropriate values according to the position of the magnet 23, the binarized signals from the four magnetoresistive elements are “0”, and the binarized signals from the other four magnetoresistive elements are “1”. Therefore, the magnetoresistive element is based on the number of bits that are “0” and the number of bits that are “1” in the combination of the binarized signals S1 to S8 output from the eight magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38. Abnormalities of three or more magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 of 31 to 38 can also be detected.

  (8) The power supply lines 24a and 25a and the ground lines 24b and 25b of the first and second magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are individually provided for the sensor modules 24 and 25, respectively. For this reason, when the power supply lines 24a and 25a or the ground lines 24b and 25b of one sensor module 24 and 25 are disconnected, the controller 39 generates a combination of binarized signals output from the other magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25. Based on this, the operation position of the shift lever 3 can be detected. Therefore, even if one of the sensor modules 24 and 25 breaks down, the vehicle can continue to travel.

In addition, you may change this Embodiment as follows.
In the above embodiment, the fifth to eighth magnetoresistive elements 35 to 38 of the second magnetic sensor module 25 are positive or negative of the detection signals of the first to fourth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 of the first magnetic sensor module 24. Is output so that the combination of the binarized signals can be provided so as to comply with at least the Hamming code. The detection characteristics and arrangement for the direction of the magnetic flux 38 can be changed as appropriate.

  In the above embodiment, the binarized signals S1 to S8 from the first to eighth magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are arranged as shown in the table of FIG. 15, but the order of the binarized signals S1 to S8 is These can be changed as appropriate.

  In the above embodiment, the binarized signal obtained by binarizing the detection signals output from the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 by the comparator is input to the controller 39. However, the controller 39 itself controls each of the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38. The detection signal output from may be binarized.

  In the above embodiment, the magnet 23 formed in a substantially columnar shape is used, but the shape of the magnet 23 is not limited to such an aspect. For example, a magnet formed in a cross shape, a diamond shape, or a square shape may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the four magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 are integrally configured as one package, but the eight magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 that are individually packaged are used. Also good.

In the above embodiment, the magnetoresistive elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 are provided on the front side and the back side of the substrate 30, but may be arranged on the same plane.
In the above embodiment, the magnetic resistance elements 31 to 34 and 35 to 38 are arranged so that the distance between them is constant. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment, and can be changed appropriately according to the shift pattern. Also good.

  In the above embodiment, eight magnetoresistive elements 31 to 38 are used, but seven magnetoresistive elements may be used. In this case, if seven magnetoresistive elements are arranged so that the combination of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23 conforms to the Hamming code, one of the combinations of the binarized signals with respect to the position of the magnet 23 will be described. Errors can be corrected.

  In the above embodiment, when the shift lever 3 is in the neutral position N, the center M of the magnet 23 and the center position of the magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 are provided so as to coincide with each other. For example, when the shift lever 3 is in the neutral position T, the center M of the magnet 23 and the center positions of the magnetic sensor modules 24 and 25 may be provided to coincide with each other.

In the above embodiment, the magnet 23 is magnetized in the direction orthogonal to the moving plane Q. However, as long as the magnet 23 is magnetized in the direction intersecting the moving plane Q, it does not necessarily have to be orthogonal to the moving plane Q.
In the above embodiment, the magnetic sensor module 24 side of the magnet 23 is the S pole and the opposite side is the N pole, but it may be magnetized in the opposite direction.

In the above embodiment, the magnetic sensor module 24 is fixed to the slider 22, but is not limited to such a mode, and may be fixed to the case 7, for example.
In the above embodiment, the magnet 23 moves on the plane (moving plane Q) while being held by the slider 22, but the magnet 23 does not necessarily have to move on the plane. For example, the magnet 23 may be fixed to the shift lever 3, and the magnet 23 may move on an arc surface centered on the first axis L1 or the second axis L2. In the above embodiment, the shift lever 3 is embodied as the shift device 1 that tilts about the first axis L1 or the second axis L2. However, the shift device in which the shift lever 3 moves in parallel along the shift gate 6 is used. It may be embodied in.

In the above-described embodiment, the shift device 1 is embodied in the T-type shift pattern. However, the shift pattern may be embodied in, for example, the shift device 1 in which the shift pattern is h-type, H-type, or cross-shaped.
In the above embodiment, the parking switch 3b is provided on the shift lever 3 of the shift device 1. However, for example, a parking switch may be provided on the instrument panel or the like.

  In the above embodiment, the column shift device is embodied. However, the present invention may be embodied in a floor shift device, a shift device provided in a center console, an instrument panel, or the like. Moreover, you may materialize in the input device corresponding to various vehicle equipment other than the shift apparatus 1, and the input device corresponding to apparatuses other than vehicle equipment.

The perspective view which shows the arrangement | positioning aspect of a shift apparatus. The schematic diagram which shows schematically the relationship between a shift gate and a shift position. The schematic perspective view of a shift apparatus. The top view which looked at the shift apparatus main body from the vehicle front side. Sectional drawing of a part of shift apparatus main body. EE sectional view taken on the line of FIG. FF sectional view taken on the line of FIG. GG sectional view taken on the line of FIG. The enlarged view of a part of shift device main body. Sectional drawing for demonstrating operation | movement of a shift apparatus. Sectional drawing for demonstrating operation | movement of a shift apparatus. (A) is a top view of a magnetic sensor module, (b) is a side view for demonstrating the positional relationship of a magnet and a magnetic sensor module. The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a shift apparatus. The top view for demonstrating the effect | action of an operation position detection apparatus. The relationship between the position of the magnet and the combination of the binarized signals output from each magnetoresistive element (left), and the binarized signal output from the position of the magnet and each magnetoresistive element to conform to the Hamming code Explanatory drawing which shows the relationship (right) with what was allocated to. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a Hamming code | symbol. Explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a syndrome and an error vector. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a syndrome table. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a syndrome when the detection signal of the appropriate value according to the position of a magnet is output. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a syndrome in case there exists a single error in the combination of the binarization signal with respect to the position of a magnet.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Shift apparatus, 3 ... Shift lever as operation member, 6 ... Shift gate, 20 ... Operation position detection apparatus, 23 ... Magnet as to-be-detected body, 31-38 ... 1st-8th magnetism as magnetic detection means Resistor element 39... Controller as calculation means, C1 to C3... First to third check bits as error correction code, D1 to D4... Data bit as position code, C4. Parity bit as error detection code, P1 ~ P7 ... position, S1-S4 ... binarized signal.

Claims (4)

A detected body that is provided so as to be movable between a plurality of predetermined positions in accordance with the operation of the operation member and is magnetized in a direction crossing the moving direction;
A plurality of magnetic detection means provided along a plane intersecting the magnetization direction and outputting a detection signal corresponding to the direction of the magnetic flux respectively applied according to the position of the detected object;
Calculating means for determining the position of the detected object based on a combination of binarized signals generated based on the detection signal;
The plurality of magnetic detection means includes a combination of the binarized signals, a position code that is position information of the detected object, and a combination of the binarized signals unique to each predetermined position of the detected object. Provided to be compliant with a Hamming code including an error correction code for correcting an error of two binarized signals,
The arithmetic means, based on the combination of the binarized signals, provides error signal position information corresponding one-to-one to one error signal of the binarized signal combination corresponding to each predetermined position of the detected object. Generating and specifying the error signal position of the combination of the binarized signals based on the error signal position information, correcting the binarized signal of the specified signal position ,
The plurality of magnetic detection means include two magnetic detection means arranged so as to overlap each other when viewed from the magnetization direction of the detected object, and the two magnetic detection means are detection signals having values obtained by inverting the positive and negative values. Is output . The plurality of magnetic detection means may be configured such that a combination of the binarized signals includes a position code that is position information of the detected object and one error of a combination of the binarized signals for each predetermined position of the detected object. And an extended Hamming code including an error detection code for detecting two errors of a combination of the binary signals for each predetermined position of the detected object. Provided as
The calculation means is configured to calculate two binarized signals of the combination of the binarized signals with respect to each predetermined position of the detected object based on the error signal position information generated based on the combination of the binarized signals. The operation position detection device according to claim 1, wherein an error is detected. The detected object is provided to be movable in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction,
The operation position detection device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the magnetic detection units are provided along the first direction and the second direction, respectively. An operation member that is operated at a plurality of operation positions set along the shift gate, and an operation position detection device that detects an operation position of the operation member, and based on a detection result of the operation position detection device, A shift device for switching a connection state of a transmission,
A shift device comprising the operation position detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 .

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