United Technologies Electro Systems, Inc.

Carl G Czarnecki

David W Welch

Joseph DiTucci

A shift actuator for a vehicle transfer case includes a bidirectional electric motor for positioning gearing in the transfer case. An indicator mechanism associated with the drive train between the motor and the transfer case provides electrical signals indicative of the actual position in, and thus operating state, of the gearing in the transfer case. A selector switch provides electrical signals indicative of a desired operating state of the transfer case gearing. An electronic control is responsive to an input from the selector switch and to the indicator mechanism for effecting rotation of the motor in a predetermined one or other direction to attain the desired operating state. The indicator mechanism includes a contact plate, which rotates with the drive train, and a set of stationary contacts. A conductive pattern on the contact plate identifies the positioning of the operating states of the transfer case gearing. Signals indicating the condition of the vehicle, as its speed and the state of its transmission, serve to allow or to inhibit certain responses to certain selected states of the transfer case gearing.

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Dearborn Heights, MI, United States of America

Carl G Czarnecki