Abstract: A shifter apparatus, according to one embodiment, is configured for operating a transmission controller of a vehicle and includes a selection knob that is rotatable between first and second angular positions for selecting an operating mode of the transmission controller. The shifter apparatus also includes a swing arm that is pivotal between an unlocked position spaced from the selection knob and a locked position engaged with the selection knob to prevent rotation thereof. Further, the shifter apparatus includes a motor configured to pivot the swing arm from the locked position to the unlocked position when a disengagement condition is satisfied for selecting a different operating mode. The shifter apparatus may also include a drive gear that is movable to an engaged position between the motor and the selection knob, such that the motor may automatically rotate the selection knob from the first angular position to the second angular position.

Abstract: A shifter apparatus, according to one embodiment, is configured for operating a transmission controller of a vehicle and includes a selection knob that is rotatable between first and second angular positions for selecting an operating mode of the transmission controller. The shifter apparatus also includes a swing arm that is pivotal between an unlocked position spaced from the selection knob and a locked position engaged with the selection knob to prevent rotation thereof. Further, the shifter apparatus includes a motor configured to pivot the swing arm from the locked position to the unlocked position when a disengagement condition is satisfied for selecting a different operating mode. The shifter apparatus may also include a drive gear that is movable to an engaged position between the motor and the selection knob, such that the motor may automatically rotate the selection knob from the first angular position to the second angular position.

Abstract: A manual transmission shifter includes a shift lever pivotally supported on a base for multi-axial pivoting movement, and a bell crank pivotally supported on the base and operatively connected to the shift lever by a pivot/slide connection. Two cables are operatively attached to the shift lever and the bell crank, respectively, for shifting the transmission. A pivot/slide connection includes an aperture in the bell crank with grooves, a bushing operably mounted in the grooves for both linear sliding and rotational movement on the grooves, and an arm on the shift lever that telescopingly engages the bushing. A top cover compresses the flat spring between the top cover and the socket. The shift lever includes arms that attach to bushing blocks, which engage the flat spring so that when the shift lever is pivoted in the one direction, the associated opposing portion of the spring(s) biases the shift lever back toward a centered position.