Combination gear-selector, sensor device

A combination gear-selector, sensor device for use with vehicle transmissions operable to a plurality of gear positions and at least one special gear function and controlled by an electronic control circuit, said gear-selector, sensor device comprising:

• (a) a shift lever pivotably movable within a shift housing;
• (b) a first magnet element connected to said shift lever and movable with said shift lever such that, a gear select indication is generated in response to operation of said shift lever to one of the plurality of gearshift positions;
• (c) a plurality of gear select sensors disposed adjacent and in a spaced-apart relation to said first magnet element, said gear select sensors corresponding in number to the plurality of gear positions such that, each of said gear select sensors outputs a distinct position signal readable by the electronic control circuit;
• (d) first function selecting means operably-connected to said shift lever for selecting a first one of the at least one special gear function upon actuation of a first function controller, said first function selecting means including a second magnet element disposed to one side of said first magnet element and oriented in an opposing polarity relation to said first magnet element;
• and
• (e) a first gear function sensor disposed adjacent and in a spaced-apart relation to said first function selecting means, said first gear function sensor being disposed such that, as said second magnet element is brought within a predetermined proximity thereto, a first function signal is output therefrom which is readable by the electronic control circuit.