Transmisison-by-wire

[rfernatt]

I realize that something like this is probably not fiscally feasible due to the number of people who would actually want it versus the cost to build it and I'm sure someone has already suggested it somewhere. However, in case smart personnel are reading these forums and think it might be economical to do, I'll put in a second for it:

What about transmission-by-wire? Some cars already used throttle-by-wire and brake-by-wire and I believe steering-by-wire is at least a concept (already in use by the military).

Since the fortwo uses a manual transmission that has an electronically controlled clutch and gear selector, why not use a "-by-wire" system and let the driver do the same if they choose. So, a clutch pedal with electronics to engage/disengage the clutch in the transmission without cables and linkages. And, a real stick shift with sensors to transmit the gear selection (there is something there already).

Heck, charge it (minimal cost) as an option for those who want more control and make sure everything is tuned to give a natural feel. The driver has more control and no messy/heavy/costly mechanical systems need be created.

Of course, it is something else to break... better put a button on the console that lets the computer take over in case the clutch pedal sensor breaks.

[mdfortwoguy]

I'm not sure that would yield good results.

Think about it - part of the finesse with a manual transmission is in how you clutch... and under different circumstances you are more likely to be abrupt with the engagement and disengagement than you would in others.

Clutch by wire would make it difficult if not impossible to modulate this.

It's an interesting idea though.

[rfernatt]

Originally Posted by mdfortwoguy

Think about it - part of the finesse with a manual transmission is in how you clutch... and under different circumstances you are more likely to be abrupt with the engagement and disengagement than you would in others.

I agree it would take some doing to implement. I was thinking something like a potentiometer/rheostat so the engagement/disengagement could be modulated in small increments or let in/out as fast as the driver wants. The mechanical transmission counterpart would have to be able to respond very quickly to driver inputs. There's no doubt that it would take some work to make it feel somewhat natural. Electric power steering systems were much maligned in their early days as being numb, but they've gotten better over the years.

However, I think the fiscal component will kill the idea before the technical implementation gets a chance. It may be another one of those "answers to a question that no one asked."

[xcrew229x]

We've got a technologically brilliant car with a trans that satisfies the automatic urge of my wife, and the manual side for me. Aside from the occasional confusion starting from a near stop, it's perfect. Why mess with it? Although..... might be able to make a tidy sum manufacturing faux clutch pedals....... nah.

[SmartCard]

Paddle shifters!!