An actuator system for a vehicle transmission, a vehicle including the actuator system, and a method for operating the actuator system

Abstract

An actuator system (1) for a vehicle transmission (T), wherein the actuator system (1) comprises an actuator unit (2) and an electric motor (3) drivingly connected to the actuator unit (2). The actuator unit (2) is configured to be driven by the electric motor (3) to shift between an engagement mode (M E ) in which the transmission (T) is connected to the propulsion unit (P) and a disengagement mode (M D ) in which the transmission (T) is disconnected from the propulsion unit (P). The system further comprises a clutch unit (4) arranged between the actuator unit (2) and the electric motor (3) and connected to the drive shaft (5) of the electric motor (3). The clutch unit (4) is configured to connect the actuator unit (2) to the electric motor (3) when shifting the actuator unit (2) between the engagement mode and the disengagement mode. The clutch unit (4) is configured to disconnect the actuator unit (2) from the electric motor (3) in the engagement mode (M E ). The system further comprises an oil pump unit (6) drivingly connected to the electric motor (3), wherein the electric motor (3) is configured to drive the oil pump unit (6) at least in the engagement mode (M E ).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an actuator system for a vehicle transmission. The system includes an actuator unit and an electric motor drivingly connected to the actuator unit. The actuator unit is configured to be shifted by the electric motor between an engaged mode in which the transmission is connected to a propulsion unit and a disengaged (disconnected) mode in which the transmission is disconnected from the propulsion unit. The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle including the actuator system and a method for operating the actuator system. Background Art

[0002] When it is necessary to switch the operating mode of the transmission, for example, when switching the operating mode of the transmission between an engaged mode in which the transmission is connected to a propulsion unit and a disengaged mode in which the transmission is disconnected from the propulsion unit, an actuator system is generally used in a vehicle transmission. The actuator system generally includes an actuator unit and an electric motor drivingly connected to the actuator unit. The drive unit is shifted between operating modes by the electric motor. The actuator systems of the aforementioned type are generally expensive and are often only used during the switching between operating modes. Therefore, the investment cost of the relevant parts is high compared to the utilization rate of the parts. Therefore, in terms of the utilization rate of the relative investment cost, the efficiency of the actuator system is low. In addition, it is desirable to reduce the number of components in the vehicle structure to avoid unnecessary costs and complex solutions.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for an improved actuator system that improves efficiency, reduces costs, and reduces the number of components. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present disclosure is to provide an actuator system for a vehicle transmission, a vehicle including the actuator system, and a method for operating the actuator system that avoid the aforementioned problems. This object is achieved at least in part by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims contain further improvements of the actuator system and the method for operating the actuator system.

[0005] The present disclosure relates to an actuator system for a vehicle transmission. The system includes an actuator unit and an electric motor drivingly connected to the actuator unit. The actuator unit is configured to be driven by the electric motor to be shifted between an engaged mode in which the transmission is connected to a propulsion unit and a disengaged mode in which the transmission is disconnected from the propulsion unit. The system further includes a clutch unit disposed between the actuator unit and the electric motor and connected to the drive shaft of the electric motor. The clutch unit is configured to connect the actuator unit to the electric motor when shifting the actuator unit between the engaged mode and the disengaged mode. The clutch unit is configured to disconnect the actuator unit from the electric motor in the engaged mode. The system further includes an oil pump unit drivingly connected to the electric motor, and the electric motor is configured to drive the oil pump unit at least in the engaged mode.

[0006] The advantages of these features are that, by integrating the oil pump and the clutch unit into the actuator system in the system, the motor for driving the actuator unit is also used to drive the oil pump at least in the engaged mode. Therefore, the actuator unit and the oil pump can be operated by the same motor, and the number of components in the vehicle structure can be reduced to avoid unnecessary costs and complex solutions. Since the motor is used not only when operating the actuator but also when driving the oil pump, the efficiency of the actuator system in terms of the utilization rate of the relative investment cost is improved by this system. The actuator system used in combination with the motor has improved efficiency, reduced costs, and a reduced number of components.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the oil pump unit is arranged between the motor and the clutch unit. The drive shaft of the motor is connected to the pump rotor of the oil pump unit. By the structure in which the oil pump unit is arranged between the motor and the clutch unit, a compact actuator system can be achieved. The connection between the drive shaft and the pump rotor can adopt a compact design because the components involved can be placed to be connected to each other. In the conventional transmission structure, the oil pump unit is usually positioned away from the actuator, and a separate motor is required to drive the oil pump unit.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the oil pump unit includes a housing structure surrounding the pump rotor, and the housing structure is arranged to be connected to the clutch unit. The arrangement in which the housing structure is connected to the clutch unit further provides a compact design of the system.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the clutch unit includes an input section and an output section. The input section is connected to the drive shaft of the motor, and the output section is connected to the actuator unit. The input section is configured to be connected to the output section when shifting the actuator unit between the engaged mode and the disengaged mode. The input section is configured to be disconnected from the output section in the engaged mode. With this configuration, the clutch unit can operate in different modes.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the clutch unit further includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to connect the input section to the output section when the actuator unit applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value to the output section during the shift of the actuator unit between the engaged mode and the disengaged mode. The locking mechanism is configured to disconnect the input section from the output section when the actuator unit applies a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value to the output section in the engaged mode. Therefore, the locking mechanism provides an efficient function of the clutch unit, and the predetermined force level value can be different between different system designs and transmission designs. For example, when the actuator unit has reached the end position, a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value can be generated.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the locking mechanism is a latch locking mechanism including a spring and a latch device connected to the spring. The latch locking mechanism provides a simple and effective configuration of the clutch unit.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating unit includes an actuating mechanism and a switching unit. The actuating mechanism is configured to move the switching unit between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The actuating unit is in an engaged mode configured to position the switching unit in the engaged position. The actuating unit is in a disengaged mode configured to position the switching unit in the disengaged position.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the switching unit includes a switching fork. The switching fork is configured to connect the propulsion unit to the transmission in the engaged mode and disconnect the propulsion unit from the transmission in the disengaged mode.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating mechanism includes a ball screw, and the switching unit includes a ball screw nut. The ball screw is drivingly connected to a motor, and the ball screw is configured to displace the ball screw nut between the engaged position and the disengaged position. The combination of the ball screw and the ball screw nut provides a simple and reliable actuating mechanism that can be positioned with high precision.

[0015] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle including an actuator system according to the above disclosure.

[0016] The present disclosure also relates to a method for operating an actuator system for a vehicle transmission. The system includes an actuating unit, a motor drivingly connected to the actuating unit, a clutch unit disposed between the actuating unit and the motor and connected to the drive shaft of the motor, and an oil pump unit drivingly connected to the motor. The method includes the following steps: in a disengaged mode in which the transmission is disconnected from the propulsion unit, connecting the actuating unit to the motor through the clutch unit; displacing the actuating unit from the disengaged mode to an engaged mode in which the transmission is connected to the propulsion unit by the motor; in the engaged mode, disconnecting the actuating unit from the motor through the clutch unit; and in the engaged mode, driving the oil pump unit by the motor; and / or, the method includes the following steps: in the engaged mode, connecting the actuating unit to the motor through the clutch unit; displacing the driving unit from the engaged mode to the disengaged mode by the motor. The method provides an effective operation of the actuator system, wherein the integrated integration of the oil pump and the clutch unit in the system ensures the efficient utilization of the motor in terms of the utilization rate of the relative investment cost. Since the motor is used not only when operating the actuator but also when driving the oil pump, the efficiency of the actuator system is improved by this method.

[0017] According to aspects of the present disclosure, the method further comprises the steps of: driving the motor in a first rotational direction when shifting the actuating unit from a disengaged mode to an engaged mode; and driving the motor in the first rotational direction in the engaged mode; and / or, the method further comprises the steps of: driving the motor in a second rotational direction when shifting the actuating unit from the engaged mode to the disengaged mode. The second rotational direction is opposite to the first rotational direction. The different rotational motions provide an effective way to operate the system between different modes.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the clutch unit includes an input section and an output section. The input section is connected to the drive shaft of the motor, and the output section is connected to the actuating unit. The method further comprises the steps of: connecting the input section to the output section when shifting the actuating unit from the disengaged mode to the engaged mode; and disconnecting the input section from the output section in the engaged mode; and / or, the method further comprises the steps of: connecting the input section to the output section when shifting the actuating unit from the engaged mode to the disengaged mode.

[0019] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the clutch unit further includes a locking mechanism. The method further comprises the steps of: connecting the input section to the output section by the locking mechanism when, during the shift of the actuating unit from the disengaged mode to the engaged mode, the actuating unit applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value to the output section; and disconnecting the input section from the output section by the locking mechanism when the actuating unit applies a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value to the output section in the engaged mode; and / or, the method further comprises the steps of: connecting the input section to the output section by the locking mechanism when, during the shift of the actuating unit from the engaged mode to the disengaged mode, the actuating unit applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value to the output section. The predetermined force level value is used to control the function of the clutch unit in a simple, reliable and effective manner.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating unit includes an actuating mechanism and a switching unit. The method further comprises the steps of: shifting the switching unit from a disengaged position to an engaged position by the actuating mechanism during the shift of the actuating unit from the disengaged mode to the engaged mode; and / or, the method further comprises the steps of: shifting the switching unit from the engaged position to the disengaged position by the actuating mechanism during the shift of the actuating unit from the engaged mode to the disengaged mode. The shifting of the switching device by the actuating mechanism ensures the effective operation of the system between different modes. Description of the Drawings

[0021] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings, in which

[0022] Figure 1a-1bA system layout diagram of an actuator system for a vehicle transmission according to the present disclosure is schematically shown in the engaged mode and the disengaged mode.

[0023] Figure 2 A side view of an actuator unit according to the present disclosure is schematically shown, and

[0024] Figure 3 A side view of a clutch unit and an oil pump unit according to the present disclosure is schematically shown. Detailed Description

[0025] Aspects of the present disclosure will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings for purposes of description and not limitation, where like reference numerals represent like elements, and variations of the described aspects are not limited to the specifically shown embodiments but can be applied to other variations of the present disclosure.

[0026] Those skilled in the art will understand that the steps, services, and functions explained herein can be implemented using separate hardware circuits, using software in conjunction with a programmed microprocessor or a general-purpose computer, using one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or using one or more digital signal processors (DSPs). It will also be understood that when the present disclosure is described in terms of a method, the present disclosure can also be implemented in one or more processors and one or more memories coupled to the one or more processors, where the one or more memories store one or more programs that, when executed by the one or more processors, perform the steps, services, and functions disclosed herein.

[0027] Figure 1a-1b An actuator system 1 for a vehicle transmission T is schematically shown. The transmission T can be any suitable type of vehicle transmission, where the transmission can operate with the actuator system 1 in two or more operating modes. In Figure 2 The actuator system 1 shown in more detail includes an actuator unit 2, a motor 3, a clutch unit 4, and an oil pump unit 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the transmission T can be connected to a propulsion unit P. The propulsion unit P can be any suitable type for propelling the vehicle, such as an electric motor or an internal combustion engine.

[0028] The actuator system 1 can also include a suitable control unit for controlling the actuation functions of the actuator system 1 and other functions of the vehicle associated with the actuator system 1. The control unit can include one or more processors and one or more memories coupled to the one or more processors for controlling the actuator system 1.

[0029] The electric motor 3 is drivingly connected to the actuating unit 2, and the actuating unit 2 is configured to be shifted by the electric motor 3 between an engagement mode M in which the transmission T is connected to the propulsion unit P E and a disengagement mode M in which the transmission T is disconnected from the propulsion unit P D . Figure 1a The engagement mode M in which the transmission T is connected to the propulsion unit P is shown E . In Figure 1b the disengagement mode M in which the transmission T is disconnected from the propulsion unit P is shown D . Thus, the electric motor 3 drives the actuating unit 2 between the engagement mode and the disengagement mode. The electric motor 3 can be of any suitable type, such as a conventional DC motor or AC motor, a stepper motor or other type of motor.

[0030] As Figure 1a-1b and Figure 2 shown, a clutch unit 4 is arranged between the actuating unit 2 and the electric motor 3. The clutch unit 4 is connected to the drive shaft 5 of the electric motor 3, and the drive shaft 5 transmits the rotational movement from the electric motor 3 to the clutch unit 4. The clutch unit 4 is configured to connect the actuating unit 2 to the electric motor 3 when the actuating unit 2 is to be shifted from the engagement mode M E to the disengagement mode M D , and when the actuating unit 2 is to be shifted from the disengagement mode M D to the engagement mode M E . The clutch unit 4 is further configured to disconnect the actuating unit 2 from the electric motor 3 in the engagement mode M E , which will be described in more detail below.

[0031] The system 1 further includes an oil pump unit 6 as described above and shown in the figures. The oil pump unit 6 includes a pump rotor 7 for pumping oil, for example, to the transmission T for lubrication and / or cooling. The oil pump unit 6 can be used to cool and / or lubricate other components or members of the vehicle system. As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the oil pump unit 6 is drivingly connected to the electric motor 3 via the drive shaft 5, and the electric motor 3 is arranged to drive the oil pump unit 6. The pump rotor 7 is connected to the drive shaft 5 of the electric motor 3, and the electric motor 3 provides rotational movement to the pump rotor 7. As Figure 3 shown, the oil pump unit 7 includes a housing structure 8 surrounding the pump rotor 7. The housing structure 8 can be arranged to have an inlet opening 8a and an outlet opening 8b for oil flowing through the oil pump unit 6 within the housing structure 8. Suitable pipes, hoses or other oil delivery means can be connected to the inlet 8a and the outlet 8b for delivering oil into and out of the oil pump unit 6.

[0032] As Figure 1a-1b and Figure 2As shown, the oil pump unit 6 is arranged between the electric motor 3 and the clutch unit 4. Accordingly, the drive shaft 5 of the electric motor 3 is connected to the pump rotor 7 of the oil pump unit 6 and, via the clutch unit 4, to the actuator unit 2. In order to make the design of the actuator system 1 compact, the housing structure 8 of the oil pump unit 6 is arranged to be connected to the clutch unit 4. As described above, the electric motor 3 drives the actuator unit 2 via the drive shaft 5 and the clutch unit 4 in the engaged mode M E and the disengaged mode M D between them. In the engaged mode M E , the actuator unit is arranged in the engaged position P E , as Figure 1a shown, in which mode torque can be transmitted from the propulsion unit P to the transmission T. A coupling unit 16, such as, for example, a claw coupling or a synchronizer, can be used to connect the propulsion unit P to the transmission T. The actuator unit 2 is arranged to move the position of the coupling unit 16 between the engaged position P E and the disengaged position P D , in the engaged position P E , the propulsion unit P is drivingly engaged with the transmission T, and in the disengaged position P D , the propulsion unit P is disconnected from the transmission T. The disengaged position P D is schematically shown in Figure 1b . The clutch unit 4 disconnects the actuator unit 2 from the electric motor 3 in the engaged mode M E , and thus, in the engaged mode M E , prevents the rotational movement of the drive shaft 5 from being further transmitted to the actuator unit 2. The electric motor 3 is configured to drive the oil pump unit 6 in the engaged mode M E , and in the engaged mode M E , since the actuator unit 2 is disconnected from the drive shaft 5, the electric motor 3 can be used to drive only the oil pump 6. It should also be understood that valves or other components can be connected to the oil pump unit 6 for regulating the flow of oil flowing out of and into the oil pump unit 6.

[0033] As Figure 1a-1b and Figure 2 shown, the actuator unit 2 includes an actuating mechanism 14 and a switching unit 15. The switching unit 15 is connected to the coupling unit 16 by suitable connecting means and, when actuated by the actuating mechanism 14, the switching unit 15 is displaced together with the coupling unit 16 between the engaged position P E and the disengaged position P D . The actuating mechanism 14 is configured to displace the switching unit 15 between the engaged position P E and the disengaged position P D . As Figure 1a shown, the actuator unit 2 is in the engaged mode M EIn this case, the engagement mode M E is configured to position the switching unit 15 in the engagement position P E . As Figure 1b shown, the actuating unit 2 is in the disengaged mode M D , and this disengaged mode M D is configured to position the switching unit 15 in the disengaged position P D .

[0034] The switching unit 15 may for example include a switching fork connected to a groove in the coupling unit 16, and the switching fork is thus configured, by its connection to the coupling unit 16, to connect the propulsion unit P to the transmission T in the engagement mode M E and to disconnect the propulsion unit P from the transmission T in the disengaged mode M D .

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating unit 2 is arranged as a conventional ball screw unit. The actuating mechanism 14 is arranged as a ball screw, and the switching unit 15 is provided as a ball screw nut. The ball screw is drivingly connected to the electric motor 3 via the drive shaft 5 and the clutch unit 4, and the ball screw is configured to displace the ball screw nut axially between the engagement position P E and the disengaged position P D . When the ball screw is rotated by the electric motor 3 in a first rotational direction, the nut can be axially displaced along the ball screw from the engagement position P E to the disengaged position P D . When the ball screw is rotated by the electric motor 3 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the nut can be axially displaced along the ball screw from the engagement position P D to the disengaged position P E . It should be understood that other types of rotary actuators may be used instead of the described conventional ball screw unit.

[0036] In Figure 1a-1b the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion unit P is arranged to have a gear drive shaft 18, and a first gear G1 is attached to the gear drive shaft 18. The coupling unit 16 is slidably and non-rotatably connected to the intermediate drive shaft 19, for example by a spline connection or a similar arrangement, where the coupling unit 16 can slide axially along the intermediate drive shaft 19 between the engagement position P Figure 1a shown E and Figure 1b the disengaged position P D shown. The actuating unit 2 is used to position the coupling unit 16 in different positions. A second gear G2 is rotatably arranged on the intermediate drive shaft 19 via a bearing 17, and the second gear G2 is drivingly engaged with the first gear G1. In the engagement position PE In it, the coupling unit 16 engages the second gear G2, and the rotational movement of the gear drive shaft 18 can be transmitted to the intermediate drive shaft 19 via the first gear G1, the second gear G2, and the coupling unit 16. At the engagement position P E In it, by engaging with the coupling unit 16, the rotation of the second gear G2 relative to the intermediate drive shaft 19 is blocked, and the rotational movement of the second gear G2 is transmitted to the intermediate drive shaft 19. At the separation position P D In it, the coupling unit 16 is separated from the second gear G2, and the rotational movement of the gear drive shaft 18 is blocked from being transmitted to the intermediate drive shaft 19 via the first gear G1 and the second gear G2. At the separation position P D In it, since the coupling unit 16 is disconnected from the second gear G2, the second gear G2 is allowed to rotate relative to the intermediate drive shaft 19. The rotational movement from the first gear G1 can be transmitted to the second gear G2, but the rotational movement of the second gear G2 is blocked from being further transmitted to the intermediate drive shaft 19 because the second gear G2 is connected to the intermediate drive shaft 19 via the bearing 17. The bearing 17 can be any suitable structure that provides low friction between the second gear G2 and the intermediate drive shaft 19. The intermediate drive shaft 19 is also provided with a third gear G3, and at the engagement position P E In it, the rotational movement of the intermediate drive shaft 19 can be transmitted from the third gear G3 to the fourth gear G4 arranged on the transmission device T. It should be understood that the arrangement of the drive shaft, the coupling unit, and the gears can have other structures different from the structure shown in the Figure 1a-1b illustrated embodiment. The transmission device T can be of any suitable type according to the vehicle structure, such as, for example, a gear transmission connected to the differential unit or just the differential unit.

[0037] In Figure 3 the illustrated embodiment, the clutch unit 4 includes an input section 9 and an output section 10. The input section 9 is connected to the drive shaft 5 of the motor 3, and the output section 10 is connected to the actuating unit 2. The input section 9 is configured to connect to the output section 10 when the actuating unit 2 is shifted from the engagement mode M E to the separation mode M D and when the actuating unit 2 is shifted from the separation mode M D to the engagement mode M E . When the actuating unit 2 is between the engagement mode M E and the separation mode M D , the rotational movement of the drive shaft 5 is transmitted to the actuating unit 2 through the coupling unit 4, and the input section 9 and the output section 10 of the coupling unit 4 are connected to each other for transmitting the rotational movement. The input section 9 is also configured to disconnect from the output section 10 in the engagement mode M E . When the actuating unit 2 is arranged in the engagement mode ME When this occurs, the connection between the input section 9 and the output section 10 is disconnected, thereby preventing the rotational movement from the drive shaft 5 from being transmitted to the actuating unit 2. When the connection is disconnected, the input section 9 and the output section 10 are allowed to rotate relative to each other.

[0038] As Figure 3 Schematically shown in, the clutch unit 4 further includes a locking mechanism 11. The locking mechanism 11 is configured to connect the input section 9 to the output section 10 and to disconnect the input section 9 from the output section 10. When the actuating unit 2 applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value V E and between the disengaging mode M D during the shift between, the locking mechanism 11 connects the input section 9 to the output section 10. This is the case when switching between operating modes during normal operation. When the actuating unit 2 moves the coupling unit 16 between the engaged position P FL and the disengaged position P E and, the rotational force applied from the actuating unit 2 to the output section 10 is equal to or less than the predetermined force level value V D . The predetermined force level value V FL can vary depending on, for example, the structure of the actuating unit 2 and the coupling unit 16, and thus the clutch unit 4 is calibrated relative to the actuating unit 2 and the coupling unit 16 used. When the actuating unit 2 applies a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value V FL to the output section 10, the locking mechanism 11 disconnects the input section 9 from the output section 10. This should be the case when the actuating unit 2 is arranged in the engaged mode M FL . Therefore, the system should be constructed such that the rotational force on the output section 10 in the engaged mode M E is greater than the predetermined force level value V E . FL

[0039] The system can be designed, for example, such that the switching unit 15 reaches an end position in the engaged mode M E . The end position can be, for example, the position where the coupling unit 16 engages with the second gear G2. In the end position, the rotational force applied from the actuating unit 2 to the output section 10 of the clutch unit 4 is much greater than during the shift of the switching unit 15. When the ball screw nut reaches the engaged position P E together with the coupling unit 16, the further movement of the ball screw nut is prevented by the engagement between the coupling unit 16 and the second gear G2. Since the ball screw is drivingly connected to the motor 3, the rotational force from the ball screw on the output section 10 will increase. When the increased rotational force on the output section 10 is greater than the predetermined force level value V FLWhen this occurs, the output section 10 is disconnected from the input section 9, and the rotational movement of the drive shaft 5 is no longer transmitted to the ball screw.

[0040] The locking mechanism 11 can be arranged as a conventional stop locking mechanism known in the art. As Figure 3 schematically shown, the pin locking mechanism includes, for example, a spring 12 and a pin device 13 connected to the spring 12. For example, the pin device 13 and the spring 12 can be arranged to be connected to the input section 9, and the pin device 13 can engage a recess or a similar structure arranged in the output section 10. When the pin device 13 engages with the recess, the input section 9 is connected to the output section 10, and the rotational movement in the first rotational direction can be transmitted from the input section 9 to the output section 10. When the pin device 13 engages with the recess, the ball screw can move the ball screw nut and the coupling unit 16 in the direction towards the second gear G2. If a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value V FL is applied to the output section 10, then the pin device 13 is disconnected from the recess, and the input section is thus disconnected from the output section 10, where the rotational movement of the input section 9 in the first rotational direction is prevented from being transmitted to the output section 10. The structure of the spring 12 is used to determine the force level at which the pin device 13 is disconnected from the recess. When the pin device 13 is disconnected from the recess, the input section 9 is allowed to rotate relative to the output section 10, and the output section 10 does not rotate. The locking mechanism 11 is also configured to connect the pin device 13 and the recess when the input section 9 rotates with the motor 3 in the second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and the ball screw can then move the ball screw nut and the coupling unit 16 in the direction away from the second gear G2.

[0041] When the actuating unit 2 is shifted from the separation mode M D to the engagement mode M E , the motor 3 rotates in the first rotational direction, and the rotational movement is transmitted to the actuating mechanism 14. When the actuating unit has been shifted to the engagement mode M E , as described above, the pin device 13 is disconnected from the recess, and the rotational movement of the motor 3 in the first rotational direction is no longer transmitted to the actuating mechanism 14. In the engagement mode M E , the motor 3 rotates the drive shaft 5 in the first rotational direction to drive the oil pump unit 6. When it is decided to change the mode from the engagement mode M E back to the separation mode M D , the motor 3 rotates in the second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and the pin device 13 is connected to the recess again. Then, the actuating unit 2 can be moved to the separation mode M D . In the separation mode M DIn the following, if necessary, a switch or a similar device can be used to shut down the system to prevent further movement of the actuating unit 2.

[0042] It should be understood that since the pump rotor 7 of the oil pump unit 6 is connected to the drive shaft 5, when the actuating unit 2 is shifted between the engagement position P E and the disengagement position P D , the pump rotor 7 rotates together with the drive shaft 5. The system can be designed to have a function of disconnecting the pump rotor 7 from the drive shaft 5, wherein when the actuating unit 2 is shifted between the engagement position P E and the disengagement position P D , a properly disconnected unit (such as a coupling unit for example) prevents the pump rotor 7 from rotating together with the drive shaft 5.

[0043] When operating the actuator system 1, in the disengagement mode M D wherein the transmission T is disconnected from the propulsion unit P, the actuating unit 2 is connected to the electric motor 3 through the clutch unit 4. Thereafter, during the operation of the electric motor 3 in the first rotation direction, the actuating unit 2 together with the electric motor 3 is shifted from the disengagement mode M D to the engagement mode M E wherein the transmission T is connected to the propulsion unit P. In the engagement mode M E , the actuating unit 2 is disconnected from the electric motor 3 through the clutch unit 4, and the oil pump unit 6 is driven by the electric motor 3 during the operation in the first rotation direction. In the engagement mode M E , during the operation of the electric motor in the second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the actuating unit 2 is connected to the electric motor 3 again through the clutch unit 4. Thereafter, by the electric motor 3 operating in the second rotation direction, the actuating unit 2 is shifted from the engagement mode M E to the disengagement mode M D .

[0044] The system can be configured to disconnect the actuating unit 2 from the electric motor 3 through the clutch unit 4 (and if necessary, through a proper disconnecting device) in the disengagement mode M D .

[0045] Therefore, when operating the actuator system 1, when shifting the actuating unit from the disengagement mode M D to the engagement mode M E , the electric motor 3 is driven in the first rotation direction, and is driven in the first rotation direction in the engagement mode M E . When shifting the actuating unit from the engagement mode M E to the disengagement mode M D , the electric motor 3 is driven in the second rotation direction, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction. When shifting the actuating unit 2 from the disengagement mode M DShift to engagement mode M E When in the engagement mode M, the input section 9 of the clutch unit 4 is connected to the output section 10, and E in the engagement mode M, the input section 9 is disconnected from the output section 10. When the actuator unit 2 is shifted from the engagement mode M E to the disengagement mode M D the input section 9 is connected to the output section 10. When during the shift of the actuator unit 2 from the disengagement mode M D to the engagement mode M E the actuator unit 2 applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value V FL on the output section 10, the input section 9 is connected to the output section 10 by the locking mechanism 11. When the actuator unit 2 applies a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value V E to the output section 10 in the engagement mode M FL the input section 9 is disconnected from the locking mechanism 11. When during the shift of the actuator unit 2 from the engagement mode M E to the disengagement mode M D the actuator unit 2 applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value V FL on the output section 10, the input section 9 is connected to the output section 10 by the locking mechanism 11.

[0046] When the actuator system 1 is operated, during the shift of the actuator unit 2 from the disengagement mode M D to the engagement mode M E the switching unit 15 is shifted from the disengaged position P D to the engaged position P E by the actuating mechanism 14. During the shift of the actuator unit 2 from the engagement mode M E to the disengagement mode M D the switching unit 15 is shifted from the engaged position P E to the disengaged position P D by the actuating mechanism 14.

[0047] The present disclosure has been presented above with reference to specific embodiments. However, other embodiments besides the above-described embodiments are also possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. Method steps for performing the method by hardware or software different from the above steps may be provided within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores one or more programs configured to be executed by one or more processors of the actuator system 1, the one or more programs including instructions for performing the method according to any one of the above embodiments. Alternatively, according to another exemplary embodiment, a cloud computing system may be configured to perform aspects of any method presented herein. The cloud computing system may include distributed cloud computing resources that together execute, under the control of one or more computer program products, the method aspects presented herein. Additionally, the processor may be connected to one or more communication interfaces and / or sensor interfaces for receiving and transmitting data to and from external entities such as, for example, sensors disposed on the vehicle surface, off-site servers, or cloud-based servers.

[0048] The processor associated with the control unit of the actuator system 1 may include any number of hardware components for performing data processing or signal processing or for executing computer code stored in the memory. The system may have an associated memory, and the memory may be one or more devices for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating the various methods described in this specification. The memory may include volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities of this specification. According to an exemplary embodiment, any distributed or local memory device may be used with the systems and methods described herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory may be communicatively connected to the processor (e.g., via circuitry or any other wired, wireless, or network connection means) and includes computer code for performing one or more of the processes described herein.

[0049] It should be understood that the foregoing description is exemplary in nature only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or its use. Although specific examples have been described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and elements thereof can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. In addition, modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the basic scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific examples disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out the teachings of the present disclosure and illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification. Instead, the scope of the present disclosure will include any embodiment falling within the foregoing description and the appended claims. The reference numerals mentioned in the claims should not be regarded as limiting the scope of the matter protected by the claims, and their sole function is to make the claims more understandable.

[0050] Reference numeral

[0051] 1 Actuator system

[0052] 2 Actuating unit

[0053] 3 Electric motor

[0054] 4 Clutch unit

[0055] 5 Drive shaft

[0056] 6 Oil pump unit

[0057] 7 Pump rotor

[0058] 8 Housing structure

[0059] 8a Inlet opening

[0060] 8b Outlet opening

[0061] 9 Input section

[0062] 10 Output section

[0063] 11 Locking mechanism

[0064] 12 Spring

[0065] 13 Lock pin device

[0066] 14 Actuating mechanism

[0067] 15 Switching unit

[0068] 16 Coupling unit

[0069] 17 Bearing

[0070] 18 Gear drive shaft

[0071] 19 Intermediate drive shaft

[0072] G1 First gear

[0073] G2 Second gear

[0074] G3 Third gear

[0075] G4 Fourth gear

[0076] T Transmission

[0077] P Propulsion unit

Claims

1. An actuator system (1) for a vehicle transmission (T), wherein, The system (1) includes an actuating unit (2) and an electric motor (3) drivingly connected to the actuating unit (2), wherein the actuating unit (2) is configured to be driven by the electric motor (3) to shift between an engagement mode (M E ) in which the transmission (T) is connected to the propulsion unit (P) and a disengagement mode (M D ) in which the transmission (T) is disconnected from the propulsion unit (P); Among them, the system further includes a clutch unit (4), the clutch unit (4) is arranged between the actuating unit (2) and the motor (3), and is connected to the drive shaft (5) of the motor (3), wherein the clutch unit (4) is configured to connect the actuating unit (2) to the motor (3) when shifting the actuating unit (2) between the engagement mode (M E ) and the disengagement mode (M D ), and wherein the clutch unit (4) is configured to disconnect the actuating unit (2) from the motor (3) in the engagement mode (M E ); Wherein, the system further includes an oil pump unit (6) drivingly connected to the motor (3), wherein the motor (3) is configured to drive the oil pump unit (6) at least in the engagement mode (M E ); Among them, the oil pump unit (6) is arranged between the motor (3) and the clutch unit (4), and the drive shaft (5) of the motor (3) is connected to the pump rotor (7) of the oil pump unit (6).

2. The actuator system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The oil pump unit (6) includes a housing structure (8) surrounding the pump rotor (7), and the housing structure (8) is arranged to be connected to the clutch unit (4).

3. The actuator system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The clutch unit (4) includes an input section (9) and an output section (10), wherein the input section (9) is connected to the drive shaft (5) of the electric machine (3), and the output section (10) is connected to the actuating unit (2), wherein the input section (9) is configured to be connected to the output section (10) when shifting the actuating unit (2) between the engagement mode (M E ) and the disengagement mode (M D ), and wherein the input section (9) is configured to disconnect from the output section (10) in the engagement mode (M E ).

4. The actuator system (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The clutch unit (4) further includes a locking mechanism (11); Wherein, the locking mechanism (11) is configured to connect the input section (9) to the output section (10) when the actuating unit (2) applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value (V E ) to the output section (10) during a shift between the engagement mode (M D ) and the disengagement mode (M FL ); and Wherein, the locking mechanism (11) is configured to disconnect the input section (9) from the output section (10) when the actuating unit (2) applies a rotational force greater than the predetermined force level value (V E ) to the output section (10) in the engagement mode (M FL ).

5. The actuator system (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The locking mechanism (11) is a locking pin locking mechanism, and the locking pin locking mechanism includes a spring (12) and a locking pin device (13) connected to the spring (12).

6. The actuator system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The actuating unit (2) comprises an actuating mechanism (14) and a switching unit (15), wherein the actuating mechanism (14) is configured to shift the switching unit (15) between an engaged position (P E ) and a disengaged position (P D ). wherein the actuating unit (2) in the engagement mode (M E ) is configured to position the switching unit (15) in the engaged position (P E ), and wherein the actuating unit (2) in the separation mode (M D ) is configured to position the switching unit (15) in the separated position (P D ).

7. The actuator system (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The switching unit (15) includes a switching fork, wherein the switching fork is configured to connect the propulsion unit (P) to the transmission (T) in the engagement mode (M E ) and to disconnect the propulsion unit (P) from the transmission (T) in the disengagement mode (M D ).

8. The actuator system (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The actuating mechanism (14) includes a ball screw, and the switching unit (15) includes a ball screw nut, wherein the ball screw is drivingly connected to the electric motor (3), and wherein the ball screw is configured to displace the ball screw nut between the engaged position (P E ) and the disengaged position (P D ).

9. A vehicle, the vehicle including the actuator system (1) according to any one of claims 1-8.

10. A method for operating an actuator system (1) for a vehicle transmission (T), wherein, The system (1) includes an actuator unit (2), a motor (3) drivingly connected to the actuator unit (2), a clutch unit (4) arranged between the actuator unit (2) and the motor (3) and connected to the drive shaft (5) of the motor (3), and an oil pump unit (6) drivingly connected to the motor (3). Among them, the oil pump unit (6) is arranged between the motor (3) and the clutch unit (4), and the drive shaft (5) of the motor (3) is connected to the pump rotor (7) of the oil pump unit (6). Among them, the method includes the following steps: In a disengaged mode (M) in which the drive unit (T) is disconnected from the propulsion unit (P), the actuator unit (2) is connected to the electric motor (3) by means of the clutch unit (4); D ) The actuation unit (2) is shifted from the separation mode (M D ) to the engagement mode (M E ) by the motor (3), and in the engagement mode (M E ), the transmission (T) is connected to the propulsion unit (P); In the engagement mode (M E ), the clutch unit (4) disconnects the actuation unit (2) from the electric motor (3); and In the engagement mode (M E ), the oil pump unit (6) is driven by the motor (3); and / or, Among them, the method includes the following steps: In the engagement mode (M E ), the actuating unit (2) is connected to the electric motor (3) by means of the clutch unit (4); The motor (3) causes the actuating unit (2) to shift from the engagement mode (M E ) to the separation mode (M D ).

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: When shifting the actuating unit (2) from the separation mode (M D ) to the engagement mode (M E ), drive the electric motor (3) in a first rotational direction; and Drive the motor (3) along the first rotation direction in the engagement mode (M E ); and / or, Among them, the method further includes the following steps: When shifting the actuating unit (2) from the engagement mode (M E ) to the separation mode (M D ), the motor (3) is driven in a second rotational direction, where the second rotational direction is opposite to the first rotational direction.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The clutch unit (4) includes an input section (9) and an output section (10), where the input section (9) is connected to the drive shaft (5) of the motor (3), and the output section (10) is connected to the actuator unit (2); Among them, the method further includes the following steps: When the actuating unit (2) is shifted from the separating mode (M D ) to the engaging mode (M E ), the input section (9) is connected to the output section (10); and Disconnect the input section (9) from the output section (10) in the engagement mode (M E ); and / or, Among them, the method further includes the following steps: When shifting the actuating unit (2) from the engagement mode (M E ) to the separation mode (M D ), the input section (9) is connected to the output section (10).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The clutch unit (4) further includes a locking mechanism (11); Among them, the method further includes the following steps: During the shift of the actuating unit (2) from the disengaged mode (M D ) to the engaged mode (M E ), when the actuating unit (2) applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value (V FL ) to the output section (10), the input section (9) is connected to the output section (10) by the locking mechanism (11); and When the actuating unit (2) applies a rotational force greater than a predetermined force level value (V E ) to the output section (10) in the engagement mode (M FL ), the input section (9) is disconnected from the output section (10) by the locking mechanism (11); and / or, Among them, the method further includes the following steps: During the shift of the actuating unit (2) from the engagement mode (M E ) to the separation mode (M D ), when the actuating unit (2) applies a rotational force equal to or less than a predetermined force level value (V FL ) to the output section (10), the input section (9) is connected to the output section (10) by the locking mechanism (11).

14. The method according to any one of claims 10-13, wherein, The actuator unit (2) includes an actuating mechanism (14) and a switching unit (15); Among them, the method further includes the following steps: During the shift of the actuating unit (2) from the separating mode (M D ) to the engaging mode (M E ), the switching unit (15) is caused to shift from a separating position (P D ) to an engaging position (P E ) by the actuating mechanism (14); and / or, Among them, the method further includes the following steps: During the shift of the actuating unit (2) from the engagement mode (M E ) to the separation mode (M D ), the switching unit (15) is shifted from the engagement position (P E ) to the separation position (P D ) by the actuating mechanism (14).

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