About ShiftFX
ShiftFX Electronic Shift Transmission for Original Equipment Manufacturers.
The ShiftFX Electronic Shift Transmission (EST) is a whole-product solution. The system builds on the standard sequential gearbox design found in production motorcycles, adding a sleek, simple rider interface to provide both push-button semi-automatic and fully automatic shifting.
In semi-automatic mode, the transmission is shifted by electronic controls and the rider need only push a button to initiate an upshift or downshift, in a manner similar to high-end sports cars that are operated using a paddle shifter.
In automatic mode, ShiftFX EST provides a much simpler interface that eases a new rider’s introduction into motorcycling by eliminating the need to operate the clutch or manually shift the transmission. The automatic mode also offers convenience for all riders by reducing fatigue in heavy traffic, over long distances, or in adventure-type riding.
Highlights of the ShiftFX EST
The ShiftFX EST consists of the Gear Controller, a Transmission Control Unit (TCU), a Rider interface, and an optional Active Clutch System.
Gear Control System
The ShiftFX EST system eliminates the shift lever and ratcheting mechanism in a standard gearbox and replaces it with a patented mechanism consisting of a high-speed DC motor and gear reducer that rotates the shift drum directly. This setup allows the transmission to be shifted from any gear to any gear or to neutral, and with advanced controls mitigates the gear-jam problem commonly associated with motorcycle gearboxes. Wear on the transmission components is reduced, and the standard ratcheting system is eliminated.
Transmission Control Unit
The Transmission Control Unit (TCU) can be tuned to provide almost any shifting characteristic based on speed, load, gear position, and ride mode amongst other parameters. The TCU can protect the engine from over-revving during downshifts, limits shifting into and out of neutral, and limits clutch torque transfer during shifts, reducing wear and tear on the engine components. The unit is equipped to communicate with the ECU and other devices on the CANbus to control for seamless integration into the vehicle.
Rider Interface
Using the mode selection switch the rider can select between semi-automatic and full-automatic control. In semi-automatic mode, the transmission is shifted via push buttons near the left handlebar. An optional foot lever can be provided to retain a traditional shifting interface, although the transmission is still shifted electronically through the ShiftFX EST system. For internal combustion engines, the manual clutch lever is retained. For electric vehicles, the clutch is completely eliminated from the system.
Active Clutch System
For internal combustion engines, the optional Active Clutch system can control the clutch during shifts while providing for a manual override. Using shape memory alloy technology, the Active Clutch unit is a compact and lightweight unit that controls the clutch hydraulically. The system relies on a centrifugal auto-clutch for launching and anti-stall functions.
Benefits of the ShiftFX EST
Eliminate the clutch in multi-speed electric vehicles
The combination of higher fuel prices and environmentally conscious consumers has motivated vehicle manufacturers to produce electric vehicles. The performance specifications of electric vehicles, constantly compared to gas powered vehicles, have been limited by the size and weight constrains of the battery pack. Use of a multi-speed sequential gearbox can provide range extension, improved acceleration, and enhanced regenerative braking to electric vehicles. ShiftFX EST for electric vehicles allows manufacturers to harness the benefits of a multi-speed gearbox without the added cost and complexity of a clutch.
