Electromechanical actuator assembly for actuating brake actuator, brake assembly and vehicle

Abstract

An electromechanical actuator assembly (1) for actuating a brake actuator (20), comprising: an actuating mechanism (3, 6) configured to be able to convert a rotational driving movement into a translational driven movement in the direction of a first longitudinal axis (L1); and a pushing member (4, 4 ', 4' ') operably coupled to the actuating mechanism (3, 6) to receive and transmit the translational driven motion at least in the direction of the first longitudinal axis (L1), where the actuating mechanism (3, 6) is a spindle-spindle nut mechanism, the spindle nut (6) of the actuating mechanism (3, 6) is rotatably supported about the first longitudinal axis (L1) while being axially fixed, and the pushing member (4, 4', 4 '') is rotatably supported about the second longitudinal axis (L1) while being axially fixed. And the main shaft (3) of the actuating mechanism (3, 6) is configured to be axially movable relative to the first longitudinal axis (L1) while being fixedly rotated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electromechanical actuator assembly for actuating a brake actuator, a brake assembly including the electromechanical actuator assembly, and a vehicle including the electromechanical actuator assembly or the brake assembly. Background Art

[0002] Pneumatic brake systems are widely used for the deceleration of commercial vehicles.

[0003] Floating caliper disc brakes are the most common basic brake solution for wheel-end brake torque application in these systems. The pneumatic actuator is connected to these calipers by simple flanges and nuts. Due to this interface, these actuators can be replaced in a modular manner, supporting system setups with different braking performances based on actuator power.

[0004] The principle of electromechanical brake actuation is about to enter the commercial vehicle market. Due to the vehicle suspension, axle housing, and brake components being already determined, the design freedom for electromechanical brake actuation is restricted.

[0005] In addition, a brake caliper or a general brake member can be actuated by a brake actuator such as a rotating rod, wherein a specific contact surface or interface for receiving actuation (e.g., caused by a push rod that is part of the actuation assembly) moves along a curved trajectory during the braking action due to the rotation of the rotating rod. This may result in additional loads on the actuation mechanism. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to allow for the implementation of electromechanical brake actuation in an efficient manner.

[0007] This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Other aspects of the present invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0008] According to the present invention, an electromechanical actuator assembly for actuating a brake actuator includes: an actuation mechanism configured to be able to convert a rotational drive motion into a translational follower motion along a first longitudinal axis direction; and a pushing member operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism to receive and transmit the translational follower motion at least along the direction of the first longitudinal axis, wherein the actuation mechanism is a spindle-spindle nut mechanism, wherein the spindle nut of the actuation mechanism is rotatably supported about the first longitudinal axis while being axially fixed, and the spindle of the actuation mechanism is configured to be able to axially move relative to the first longitudinal axis while being rotationally fixed.

[0009] For example, the actuating member is axially driven by an actuating mechanism in a first longitudinal direction to move a brake actuator, such as a brake lever, in a braking direction. The brake actuator moving in the braking direction actuates a brake or a braking member, such as a brake caliper (e.g., a floating caliper), to brake a brake disc. Since the main shaft cannot rotate but can be axially moved by the rotation of a main shaft nut to actuate the brake actuator through the actuating member, the structural and / or dynamic requirements regarding the main shaft can be reduced.

[0010] The term "operatively connected" or "operatively coupled" refers to a direct or indirect connection or coupling. For example, an indirect connection or coupling may include at least one intermediate member (e.g., for bridging a distance and / or providing a flexible interface) disposed between the members to be operatively connected or coupled. Thus, any coupling of the described actuating member to the main shaft can also be transferred to a coupling of the actuating member to at least one intermediate member, which is in turn operatively coupled to the main shaft. For example, with respect to the actuating member being operatively connected to the main shaft, the actuating member can be directly coupled to the main shaft through a fixing member (such as a fixing O-ring), or indirectly coupled to the main shaft through the fixing member to at least one intermediate member.

[0011] In some embodiments, the main shaft - main shaft nut mechanism is a ball screw. For example, the main shaft - main shaft nut mechanism is an actuator based on a recirculating ball type main shaft, where the main shaft extends in the direction of a first longitudinal axis (preferably coaxial therewith) and is supported by the main shaft nut when the main shaft axially moves along the first longitudinal axis or an axis parallel to the first longitudinal axis, but the main shaft remains rotationally stationary with respect to the direction of the first longitudinal axis. The rotational movement of the main shaft nut causes the main shaft to axially move with respect to the first longitudinal axis. To prevent the main shaft from rotating together with the main shaft nut and to maintain rotational stationary, the main shaft may include at least one main shaft support pin radially protruding with respect to the first longitudinal axis. The at least one pin can be received in a guiding groove of a housing that receives the main shaft or a guiding groove of another fixed component. The guiding groove extends along the axial movement direction of the main shaft. Through the axial movement of the main shaft, the actuating member also moves axially.

[0012] However, in other embodiments, the main shaft - main shaft nut mechanism can be another actuating mechanism configured to convert a rotational drive motion into a translational follower motion in the direction of the first longitudinal axis, such as a threaded mechanism.

[0013] Preferably, the electro - mechanical actuator assembly further includes an electro - mechanical linear actuator configured and controlled to be able to lock the main shaft nut to prevent its rotational movement.

[0014] For example, an electromechanical linear actuator may be configured to be able to move against a spindle nut to lock or brake the spindle nut against rotational movement by providing a form-fit connection. However, in other embodiments, such locking may alternatively or additionally be provided by another locking mechanism. Optionally, the electromechanical linear actuator may be placed directly on the back of the spindle nut to act directly thereon. By locking the spindle nut against rotational movement, a force acting on the spindle in the axial direction relative to the first longitudinal axis does not cause the spindle or the spindle nut to move.

[0015] In some embodiments, the spindle nut is operatively connected to a drive device (preferably an electric motor) to be directly driven by the drive device or driven through at least one gear stage arranged between the drive device and the spindle nut.

[0016] Accordingly, the drive device (in particular a rotary drive device) drives the spindle nut to rotate to axially drive the spindle. The drive device may be directly or indirectly connected to the spindle nut. As mentioned above, the term "operatively connected" or "operatively coupled" refers to a direct or indirect connection or coupling. For example, an indirect connection or coupling may include at least one intermediate component (such as for converting motion and / or bridging a distance) arranged between the components to be operatively connected or coupled. With respect to the spindle nut being operatively connected to the drive device, at least one gear stage may be arranged between the drive device and the spindle nut. The at least one gear stage may allow the conversion of the rotational speed of the drive device to a different rotational speed of the spindle nut. Preferably, the at least one gear stage is configured to be able to reduce the rotational speed of the spindle nut relative to the rotational speed of the drive device. Since the drive device is or at least includes an electric motor, the driving of the spindle can be easily achieved.

[0017] In some embodiments, the drive device includes a drive device shaft extending in the direction of a second longitudinal axis, preferably parallel to the first longitudinal axis, wherein the drive device shaft preferably at least partially overlaps the spindle in the direction of the second longitudinal axis.

[0018] The second longitudinal axis may be coaxially aligned with the first longitudinal axis (such as in series with the spindle or the spindle nut respectively). However, due to space limitations in the installation or to reduce the size of the electromechanical actuator assembly in the direction of the first longitudinal axis, the drive device shaft and thus the second longitudinal axis may be arranged to extend parallel to the first longitudinal axis. In such a configuration, the drive device shaft and the spindle nut may be operatively coupled through at least one gear stage, wherein the at least one gear stage may be only used to transfer the rotational movement of the drive device shaft to the spindle nut at the same rotational speed, or alternatively to convert the rotational speed.

[0019] By having the drive device shaft and the main shaft at least partially overlap, the installation space can be reduced in the direction of the first longitudinal axis, thereby achieving a compact design in this direction. For example, the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are arranged parallel to each other. In addition, the drive device shaft and the main shaft are arranged such that the shorter of the drive device shaft or the main shaft does not extend beyond the longer of the drive device shaft or the main shaft relative to the first longitudinal axis or the second longitudinal axis in at least one relative position. For the lengths of the drive device shaft and the main shaft on the respective first and second longitudinal axes to be substantially equal, preferably in a predetermined relative position, neither the drive device shaft nor the main shaft extends beyond the other. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis can be arranged to extend in a horizontal plane or a vertical plane during installation.

[0020] In some embodiments, the electromechanical actuator assembly further includes a locking unit, preferably an electromechanical linear actuator or a locking clutch, more preferably a bistable brake, which is configured and controlled to be able to lock the drive device shaft to prevent its rotational movement.

[0021] By locking the drive device shaft, any accidental movement of the spindle nut can be prevented. In turn, any rotational movement of the spindle nut will not cause the drive device shaft operably connected to the spindle nut to rotate, which may affect the drive device. The locking unit is preferably configured to be able to lock by a form-fit connection.

[0022] Specifically, the locking unit is configured as a parking brake, specifically a parking brake clutch, which is coupled to the drive device shaft to lock the rotation of the drive device in a predetermined position. Preferably, the brake is pre-tensioned in the predetermined position to achieve the parking brake function.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the electromechanical linear actuator configured and controlled as described above to lock the spindle nut to prevent rotational movement can also be used to provide the above-mentioned parking brake function. In other words, the parking brake function can be achieved by the locking unit acting on the drive device shaft and / or by the electromechanical linear actuator acting on the spindle nut.

[0024] In some embodiments, the drive device shaft and the main shaft extend substantially in one plane, and the electromechanical actuator assembly further includes at least one control device, preferably at least one electronic control device, which is arranged laterally to this plane and operably connected to the drive device and / or the locking unit as described above.

[0025] Therefore, the control device is placed laterally on the electromechanical actuator assembly. This allows for a further reduction in the installation space in the direction of the first longitudinal axis.

[0026] In some embodiments, the electromechanical actuator assembly includes at least two control devices arranged on opposite sides of the plane.

[0027] For example, the control device can thus form a control unit divided into two parts. The control device can be arranged such that the electromechanical actuator assembly remains quasi-symmetrical. Preferably, the symmetry plane of the arrangement of the control device corresponds to the symmetry plane of the brake caliper. The symmetry plane of the brake caliper is a plane extending substantially perpendicular to the braking surface of the brake caliper or the symmetry plane of the braking plane.

[0028] Preferably, at least one of the at least two control devices is a control unit configured to be able to control an operatively connected component, and at least one of the at least two control devices is a power control unit configured to be able to control the power supply to an operatively connected component.

[0029] Therefore, in the event of any failure of one of the at least two control devices, redundancy for providing a corresponding standby function can be more easily achieved by separating the function types into one control device or the other.

[0030] In some embodiments, the spindle nut is rotatably supported about a first longitudinal axis by at least one bearing disposed on a radially outer surface of the spindle nut.

[0031] Due to the braking operation in which the pushing member engages with the brake actuator, a force is applied to the pushing member and thus to other subsequent components operatively connected to the pushing member. In particular, since the pushing member can be tilted or at least affected by a force when engaging with the brake actuator by moving along a curved trajectory by the brake actuator, a corresponding force or force component can act on the pushing member, for example on the spindle, and subsequently on the spindle nut. Therefore, at least one bearing disposed on the radially outer surface of the spindle nut (i.e., extending at least partially circumferentially around the outer radius) can absorb these forces while guiding the axial movement of the guiding device. Therefore, the at least one bearing can be radially supported in a housing that at least partially houses the spindle nut. Due to the force absorption of the at least one bearing, the corresponding force may not have sufficient effect to cause deformation or other damage.

[0032] For example, the spindle nut is rotatably supported about a first longitudinal axis by at least one spindle nut loose bearing and at least one spindle nut fixed bearing disposed on a radially outer surface of the spindle. The two bearings can be deep groove ball bearings, which are also capable of bearing axial forces. Preferably, the spindle nut fixed bearing is configured to be able to bear the axial force transmitted from the pushing member. The at least one bearing, such as the spindle nut fixed bearing, can also be a combination of multiple bearings (such as an axial thrust ball bearing and another radial bearing of any type). In other words, the at least one bearing is configured to be able to bear axial forces by providing a single bearing or a combination of bearings providing axial and radial force support.

[0033] In some embodiments, in the direction of the first longitudinal axis, an end portion of the main shaft includes a main shaft recess, which is preferably a tapered shape tapering from an opening of the main shaft recess to a closed end of the main shaft recess, and which is configured to at least partially receive a pushing member, wherein the pushing member is preferably operatively connected to the main shaft within the main shaft recess.

[0034] Thus, the pushing member at least partially extends into the main shaft to allow for a more compact design in the direction of the first longitudinal axis. Due to the tapered shape of the main shaft recess, the main shaft recess can provide centering ability for the pushing member and / or can provide a predetermined tilting ability for the pushing member within the main shaft (as described later).

[0035] In some embodiments, the main shaft is supported along the direction of the first longitudinal axis by a main shaft nut and / or at least one bearing member above a predetermined support section, preferably at least partially corresponding to a predetermined actuation movement of the main shaft for actuating a brake actuator, and wherein the main shaft recess extends in the direction of the first longitudinal axis such that the transmission of the bending force from the pushing member to the main shaft substantially occurs within the predetermined support section.

[0036] During a braking operation, the pushing member can transmit a bending force or a bending torque to the main shaft respectively. By supporting the main shaft by the main shaft nut and / or at least one bearing member on the predetermined support section, the corresponding influence on the main shaft can be reduced. In particular, the predetermined support section at least partially corresponding to the predetermined actuation movement of the main shaft for actuating the brake actuator allows the main shaft to be supported during at least part of the normal braking operation. The predetermined support section can specifically correspond to a predetermined actuation movement having an expected bending force equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold.

[0037] According to the above, the main shaft recess extends in the direction of the first longitudinal axis such that the transmission of the bending force from the pushing member to the main shaft substantially occurs within the predetermined support section, in which the main shaft is sufficiently supported.

[0038] Furthermore, as the pushing member further extends into the main shaft, for the same actuation of the brake actuator, the deflection angle of the pushing member relative to the first longitudinal axis and thus the bending force are allowed to decrease. In other words, the greater the extent to which the pushing member extends into the main shaft, the smaller the deflection angle. For example, the pushing member can extend at least beyond the pivot axis of the brake actuator in the direction of the first longitudinal axis within the main shaft recess away from the direction of the brake actuator. Alternatively or additionally, the length of the pushing member within the main shaft recess is determined such that the pivot axis of the pushing member is located within the predetermined support section, for example, between two bearings axially arranged along the main shaft nut, at least under the maximum stroke force or the maximum actuator force, or within the corresponding force range exceeding a predetermined threshold acting on the main shaft from the pushing member.

[0039] In some embodiments, the actuating member includes an actuating member pivot portion configured to permit tilting movement of the actuating member about a pivot axis that is inclined relative to a first longitudinal axis, wherein the actuating member includes an actuating member body having at one end the actuating member pivot portion and at an opposite end an actuating member head, preferably a replaceable and / or at least partially spherical actuating member head, configured to engage a brake actuator to correspondingly actuate the brake actuator.

[0040] For example, the actuating member can be a push rod axially driven by an actuation mechanism in a first longitudinal direction to move a brake actuator, such as a brake lever, in a braking direction. The brake actuator moved in the braking direction actuates a brake or a braking member, such as a brake caliper (e.g., a floating caliper), to brake a brake disc. The brake lever as the brake actuator can rotate about a pivot axis extending in a direction that is inclined relative to the first longitudinal axis, particularly substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis but not intersecting the first longitudinal axis and thus spaced apart from the first longitudinal axis. The brake actuator and the actuating member can each include engagement interfaces configured to engage with one another such that the actuating member engages the brake actuator during a braking movement. Since the brake actuator rotates about the pivot axis, the interface of the brake actuator moves along a curved path. Accordingly, the actuating member engaging the brake actuator includes an actuating member pivot portion to permit tilting movement of the actuating member about a pivot axis that is correspondingly inclined relative to the first longitudinal axis, particularly substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis. The pivot axis of the actuating member is preferably substantially parallel to the pivot axis of the brake actuator. Herein and in general, the term "substantially" typically relates to tolerances in manufacturing and / or assembly and any other minor deviations that do not interfere with the underlying principles provided by the respective construction.

[0041] Since the actuation mechanism is configured to convert a rotational drive movement into a translational follower movement in the direction of the first longitudinal axis and the transmission mechanism is operatively coupled to the actuation mechanism to receive and transmit the translational follower movement at least in the direction of the first longitudinal axis, the actuation mechanism can be retrofitted in the brake assembly when replacing a linear drive with a rotary drive within a given brake actuator and / or brake configuration. Additionally, the ability of the actuating member to provide tilting movement allows for further reduction of the load on the actuating member that may otherwise cause deformation or other damage to the actuating member or its subsequent components in a direction away from the brake actuator and / or deformation or other damage to the brake actuator.

[0042] The actuating member includes an actuating member body (which includes an actuating member pivot portion at one end and an actuating member head configured to engage with a brake actuator at the opposite end to actuating the brake actuator accordingly). The actuating member extends along an actuating member longitudinal axis from the end including the actuating member pivot portion to the other end including the actuating member head. For example, the actuating member longitudinal axis may be coaxial with the first longitudinal axis, and the actuating member body extends at least partially within the main shaft recess.

[0043] In addition, the actuating member head may be at least partially spherical, such as a positive hemisphere, which is configured to be received by a corresponding negative hemisphere portion of the brake actuator to receive the actuating member head for engagement. Due to the spherical interface, the contact surfaces of the positive hemisphere actuating member head and the negative hemisphere portion of the brake actuator may slide relative to each other during movement along a curved trajectory without hindering such movement. However, the actuating member head is not limited to a hemispherical shape and may have another shape according to the shape of the receiving portion of the brake actuator to engage with the actuating member head.

[0044] It may also be advantageous to allow the actuating member head to be replaced to accommodate different shapes and / or sizes.

[0045] In some embodiments, the actuating member pivot portion includes at least one actuating member pivot configured as a cylindrical portion and / or a spherical portion.

[0046] For example, an actuating member pivot formed as a cylindrical portion may be received in a corresponding cylindrical support of the main shaft, allowing the actuating member to rotate about the cylindrical axis. The cylindrical portion may be formed by a cylindrical or at least a portion of a cylinder sufficient to allow a predetermined tilting movement of the actuating member. The at least one cylindrical portion may extend radially outward from the actuating member pivot portion relative to the actuating member longitudinal axis. Preferably, the actuating member pivot portion includes at least two actuating member pivots as cylindrical portions, which are uniformly distributed along the radial surface of the actuating member pivot portion relative to the actuating member longitudinal axis. Due to the at least two actuating member pivots as cylindrical portions, the actuating member can be more stably supported.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, the actuating member pivot may include a spherical portion (e.g., slidably supported within the closed end of the main shaft recess) forming a ball and socket joint or at least a ball and socket joint portion. Thus, the spherical portion may be only partially spherical. Due to the ball and socket joint or the ball and socket joint portion, the degree of freedom of tilting movement can be increased. In particular, the actuating member can thus rotate in any direction as long as it does not interfere with other components. The spherical portion may be formed with the actuating member longitudinal axis as the axis of symmetry.

[0048] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a braking assembly including at least one electromechanical actuator assembly as described above, and at least one brake actuator configured to actuate or release a brake when actuated by the electromechanical actuator assembly.

[0049] As described above, at least one brake actuator may be a brake lever pivotable about a pivot axis inclined with respect to a first longitudinal axis, preferably substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.

[0050] In some embodiments, the braking assembly further includes a brake caliper actuable by at least one brake actuator, wherein the at least one brake caliper provides a braking plane extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the braking movement, and wherein the at least one electromechanical actuator assembly is arranged such that the first longitudinal axis is substantially perpendicular to the braking plane, preferably within the symmetry plane of the brake caliper, and wherein the at least one brake actuator is arranged between the at least one electromechanical actuator assembly and the brake caliper or within the brake caliper. The braking plane corresponds to the plane in which the braking surfaces of the brake caliper extend.

[0051] Any feature described with respect to the electromechanical actuator assembly also applies to the braking assembly. Conversely, any feature described for the braking assembly also applies to the electromechanical actuator assembly.

[0052] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle including at least one electromechanical actuator assembly as described above and / or a braking assembly as described above, wherein the vehicle is a commercial vehicle and / or an electric or hybrid vehicle. For example, the commercial vehicle may be a truck, a trailer, a bus, and / or a combination of a tractor and a trailer. Commercial vehicles and electric or hybrid vehicles present strict installation space limitations, which benefit from the electromechanical actuator assembly and / or the braking assembly as described above.

[0053] Other advantages, aspects, and details of the present invention are given in the claims, the following description of exemplary embodiments applying the principles of the present invention, and the corresponding exemplary drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a braking assembly and an electromechanical actuator assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 is a schematic rear view of a braking assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a pushing member according to a first modified exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0057] Figure 4Schematic cross-sectional side view of a push member according to a second modified exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0058] Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional side view of a brake assembly 100 and an electromechanical actuator assembly 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. In Figure 1 only the electromechanical actuator assembly 1 and the brake lever 20 as an exemplary brake actuator are shown, which are included in the brake assembly 100. However, the brake assembly may also include other components, such as a brake caliper 60 ( Figure 2 ).

[0059] The electromechanical actuator assembly 1 includes a main shaft 3 and a main shaft nut 6, which are configured as a recirculating ball type main shaft mechanism, as an exemplary embodiment of an actuating mechanism configured to convert a rotational drive motion into a translational driven motion in the direction of a first longitudinal axis L1. The first longitudinal axis L1 corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the main shaft 3. The main shaft nut 6 is driven by a motor 2 as a drive device, and the drive device includes a motor shaft 10 as a drive device shaft. The motor shaft 10 extends in the direction of a second longitudinal axis L2. The first longitudinal axis L1 is parallel to the second longitudinal axis L2. In addition, the motor shaft 10 and the main shaft 3 arranged parallel to each other are positioned such that one end of the shorter motor drive shaft 10 does not protrude beyond the main shaft 3 in at least one relative position, so as to achieve a compact design in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1 or the second longitudinal axis L2. In principle, for a compact design, the motor shaft 10 and the main shaft 3 are preferably arranged to require the least amount of space in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1 or the second longitudinal axis L2. In order to drive the main shaft nut 6 by the motor 2, the motor shaft 10 includes a drive gear 13 that extends radially with respect to the second longitudinal axis L2, and the main shaft nut 6 includes a driven gear 14 that extends radially with respect to the first longitudinal axis L1. The drive gear 13 and the driven gear 14 are respectively positioned along the motor shaft 10 and the main shaft nut 6 such that they engage with each other to form a gear stage. In the exemplary embodiment, the gear stage is configured to be able to convert the rotational speed of the motor shaft 10 into a lower rotational speed of the main shaft nut 6.

[0060] The motor 2 and the motor shaft 10 are accommodated in a housing 18. The motor shaft 10 is rotatably supported in the housing 18 by motor shaft bearings 11a, 11b, and each motor shaft bearing is respectively arranged at one end of the motor shaft 10. In addition, the motor shaft 10 can be locked by a bistable brake 9 as a locking unit to prevent rotational motion.

[0061] The spindle nut 6 is also received in the housing 18 and is rotatably supported by the spindle nut fixing bearing 8a and the spindle nut loose bearing 8b. The spindle nut fixing bearing 8a is configured to allow the spindle nut 6 to rotate but prevent axial movement of the spindle nut 6 relative to the first longitudinal axis L1. In an exemplary embodiment, the spindle nut loose bearing 8b provides further support to rotate the spindle nut 6 to a stable position.

[0062] In addition, two radial seals 7a, 7b are circumferentially arranged around the spindle 6. The radial seals 7a, 7b are arranged at opposite ends of the spindle nut 6 in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1, wherein the spindle nut fixing bearing 8a, the spindle nut loose bearing 8b, the driven gear 14, the driving gear 13, the motor shaft 10 and the motor 2 are sealed in the housing space therebetween.

[0063] The spindle 3 is configured to be axially movable relative to the first longitudinal axis L1 through the spindle nut 6. To prevent rotational movement of the spindle 3, the spindle nut includes support pins (not shown) that radially extend outwardly from the spindle 3 in opposite directions relative to the first longitudinal axis L1. The support pins extend into corresponding guide grooves (not shown) to guide the support pins in the axial movement direction, thereby guiding the spindle 3 while preventing the spindle 3 from rotating. Two wipers 12a, 12b are arranged at opposite ends of the spindle nut 3 in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1. Each of the two wipers 12a, 12b extends circumferentially between the inner diameter of the spindle nut 6 and the outer diameter of the spindle 3.

[0064] The main shaft 3 includes a main shaft recess 3a having a conical shape. However, in other embodiments, the main shaft recess 3a may be of a different shape, such as the shape of a triangular slit or the shape of a rectangular volume. In an exemplary embodiment, the conical shape of the main shaft recess 3a provides an opening at the end of the main shaft 3 facing the brake lever 20, while the main shaft recess 3a tapers towards a closed end away from the brake lever 20 in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1. The pushing member 4 is partially received within the main shaft recess 3a and is fixed to the main shaft recess 3a by a fixing member 5 (here a fixing O-ring). The pushing member 4 extends generally in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1 and is tiltable about a pivot axis 17 which is generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis L1 and parallel to the pivot axis 21 of the brake lever 20. The pushing member 4 provides a spherical-shaped end at the end away from the brake lever 20. The spherical-shaped end corresponds to the contour of the closed end of the main shaft recess 3a. Thus, the pushing member 4 is fixed to the main shaft 3 within the main shaft recess 3a by the fixing member 5 such that the pushing member 4 is allowed to tilt about the pivot axis 17, wherein the spherical-shaped end of the pushing member 4 slides in a guiding manner along the corresponding contour of the closed end of the main shaft recess 3a. The tilting movement or deflection of the pushing member 4 relative to the first longitudinal axis L1 is restricted by a circumferential wall of conical shape extending from the closed end of the main shaft recess 3a to the opening of the main shaft recess 3a.

[0065] For a braking operation, the electric motor 2 drives the spindle nut 6 to rotate via the motor shaft 10 and the gear stages 13, 14. Thus, the main shaft 3 translates in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1 towards the brake lever 20. Accordingly, the pushing member 4 operatively coupled to the main shaft 3 moves towards the brake lever 20. The end of the pushing member 4 facing the brake lever 20 engages the brake lever 20, and as the pushing member 4 moves further in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1, the brake lever 20 rotates about the pivot axis 21. The end of the pushing member 4 for engaging the brake lever 20 provides a spherical-shaped portion corresponding to the spherical-shaped recess of the brake lever 20. Since the brake lever 20 pivots about the pivot axis 21 in response to being driven by the pushing member 4, the spherical-shaped recess of the brake lever 20 follows a curved trajectory. Since the pushing member 4 is tiltable about the pivot axis 17, the pushing member is allowed to follow the curved trajectory of the brake lever 20.

[0066] In order to reduce the bending force on the main shaft 3 that may occur during a braking operation due to the engagement of the pushing member 4 with the brake lever 20 and the corresponding reaction force, the pushing member 4 and the pivot axis 17 of the pushing member 4 extend deeply into the main shaft 3 respectively according to the corresponding length of the main shaft recess 3a in the direction of the first longitudinal axis L1. In addition, in order to provide sufficient support for the main shaft 3 against the occurring bending force, the closed end of the main shaft recess 3a and the pivot axis 17 of the pushing member 4 are respectively positioned such that they move between the main shaft nut fixed bearing 8a and the main shaft nut loose bearing 8b during a braking operation.

[0067] Figure 2 A schematic rear view of a brake assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. In addition to the electro-mechanical actuator assembly 1 already previously described and the brake lever 20 not visible in this perspective, the brake assembly 100 further includes a brake caliper 60. In the exemplary embodiment, the brake caliper 60 is a floating caliper, which is configured to be actuated by a brake lever 20 arranged between the electro-mechanical actuator assembly 1 and the brake caliper 60. The braking surface of the brake caliper 60 extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis L1. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, the electro-mechanical actuator assembly 1 includes two electronic control units 30a, 30b as control devices. The electronic control units 30a, 30b are attached to opposite lateral sides of the housing 18. The lateral sides of the housing extend in a plane lateral to the plane including the first longitudinal axis L1 and the second longitudinal axis L2. One electronic control unit 30a is a control unit configured to be able to control the components operatively connected to the electro-mechanical actuator assembly 1, while the other electronic control unit 30b is a power control unit configured to control the power supply to the components operatively connected to the electro-mechanical actuator assembly 1.

[0068] Figure 3Fig. shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the pushing member 4' according to a first modified exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The configuration of the pushing member 4' is also applicable to the pushing member 4, wherein the pushing member 4' includes a pushing member body 4b', which extends in a longitudinal direction from the pushing member head 4a' to the opposite pushing member pivot portion 4c'. In the assembled state of the electromechanical actuator assembly 1, the longitudinal axis of the pushing member body 4b' can be coaxial with the first longitudinal axis L1. The pushing member head 4a' provides a shape corresponding to the receiving portion of the brake lever 20 and thus an outer contour (here a spherical shape, specifically a hemispherical shape). Since the contour of the receiving portion of the brake lever 20 may change in shape and / or contour in different brake assemblies and / or due to other reasons for replacing the pushing member head 4a', the pushing member head 4a' according to the present embodiment can be releasably attached to the pushing member body 4b'. However, in other embodiments, the pushing member head 4a' can be integrally formed with the pushing member body 4b'. For the releasable attachment, the pushing member head 4a' is screwed onto the pushing member body 4b'. In other embodiments, the pushing member head 4a' can be clamped onto the pushing member body 4b', or can be releasably attached by any other form-fitting and / or force-fitting connection.

[0069] In the first modified exemplary embodiment, the pushing member 4' is different from the pushing member 4 in that the pushing member pivot portion 4c' and the spring member 4d' provided to hold the pushing member 4' in the main shaft recess 3a.

[0070] Similar to the pushing member 4, the pushing member pivot portion 4c' includes a pushing member pivot 41c', which is formed as a spherical portion forming a ball-and-socket joint or at least a part of a ball-and-socket joint. The spherical portion is formed with the pushing member longitudinal axis as the axis of symmetry. Here, the pushing member pivot 41c' can be releasably attached to the pushing member pivot portion 4c'. In addition, according to the modified exemplary embodiment, the pushing member pivot portion 4c' further includes a pushing member abutment portion 42c' formed as an edge radially outwardly protruding with respect to the longitudinal axis of the pushing member 4'. The spring member 4d' of the pushing member 4' is configured to be disposed between the pushing member abutment portion 42c' and another opposing support member (such as a radially inwardly extending edge or at least one edge segment of the main shaft recess 3a, in which the pushing member 4' is at least partially received). Thus, the pushing member pivot 41c' is biased in the longitudinal direction of the pushing member 4' to contact a support surface (here the closed end of the main shaft recess 3a) for an inclined movement along the support surface.

[0071] Figure 4Shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the push member 4" according to a second modified exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The push member 4" according to the second modified exemplary embodiment is different from the push members 4 and 4' according to the first modified exemplary embodiment in the push member pivot portion 4c".

[0072] The push member pivot portion 4c" of the push member 4" according to the second modified exemplary embodiment includes two push member pivots 41c" to form a pivot that allows the push member 4" to tilt about the pivot axis 17. In the second modified exemplary embodiment, the push member pivot 41c" is formed as a cylindrical pin. However, in other embodiments, the push member pivot 41c" can be formed as a cylindrical segment (specifically, a cylindrical arc segment). According to the side view, only one of the push member pivots 41c" is visible. However, the other push member pivot 41c" is opposite to the visible push member pivot 41c". In order to tiltably support the push member pivot 41c" in the main shaft recess 3a, the main shaft recess or the correspondingly inserted component provides a corresponding push member pivot receiving portion. Figure 4 In, only one of the push member pivots 41c" is visible. However, the other push member pivot 41c" is opposite to the visible push member pivot 41c". In order to tiltably support the push member pivot 41c" in the main shaft recess 3a, the main shaft recess or the correspondingly inserted component provides a corresponding push member pivot receiving portion.

[0073] The present invention has been described with respect to the exemplary embodiments.

[0074] However, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments.

[0075] List of reference numerals

[0076] 1 Electromechanical actuator assembly

[0077] 2 Electric motor (drive device)

[0078] 3 Main shaft

[0079] 3a Main shaft recess

[0080] 4, 4', 4" Push member

[0081] 4a', 4a” Push member head

[0082] 4b', 4b” Push member body

[0083] 4c', 4c” Push member pivot portion

[0084] 4d' Spring member

[0085] 5 Fixed member

[0086] 6 Main shaft nut

[0087] 7a, 7b Radial seal

[0088] 8a Main shaft nut fixing bearing

[0089] 8b Spindle nut loose bearing

[0090] 9 Bistable brake (locking unit)

[0091] 10 Motor shaft (drive device shaft)

[0092] 11a, 11b Motor shaft bearings

[0093] 12a, 12b Windshield wipers

[0094] 13 Drive gear

[0095] 14 Driven gear

[0096] 15 Spindle support bearing

[0097] 17 Pivot axis

[0098] 18 Housing

[0099] 20 Brake lever (brake actuator)

[0100] 21 Pivot axis

[0101] 30a, 30b Electronic control unit (control device)

[0102] 41c, 41c' Pushing member pivot

[0103] 60 Brake caliper

[0104] 100 Brake assembly

[0105] L1 First longitudinal axis

[0106] L2 Second longitudinal axis

Claims

1. An electromechanical actuator assembly (1) for actuating a brake actuator (20), comprising: An actuating mechanism (3, 6) configured to convert a rotational drive motion into a translational follower motion in a direction along a first longitudinal axis (L1); And A push member (4, 4', 4") operatively coupled to the actuating mechanism (3, 6) to receive and transmit the translational follower motion at least in the direction of the first longitudinal axis (L1), Wherein the actuating mechanism (3, 6) is a spindle - spindle nut mechanism, the spindle nut (6) of the actuating mechanism (3, 6) is rotatably supported about the first longitudinal axis (L1) while being axially fixed, and the spindle (3) of the actuating mechanism (3, 6) is configured to be axially movable relative to the first longitudinal axis (L1) while being fixed in rotation.

2. The electro-mechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The spindle - spindle nut mechanism (3, 6) is a ball screw.

3. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The spindle nut (6) is operatively connected to a drive device (2), preferably an electric motor, to be directly driven by the drive device (2) or driven through at least one gear stage (13, 14) arranged between the drive device (2) and the spindle nut (6).

4. The electro-mechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The drive device (2) includes a drive device shaft (10) extending in a direction along a second longitudinal axis (L2), preferably parallel to the first longitudinal axis (L1), and the drive device shaft (10) preferably at least partially overlaps with the spindle (3) in the direction of the second longitudinal axis (L2).

5. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) further includes a locking unit (9), preferably an electromechanical linear actuator or a locking clutch, more preferably a bistable brake, the locking unit being configured and controlled to lock the drive device shaft (10) to prevent its rotational motion.

6. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The drive device shaft (10) and the spindle (3) extend substantially in a plane, and the electromechanical actuator assembly (1) further includes at least one control device (30a, 30b), preferably at least one electronic control device, the at least one control device being arranged laterally to the plane and operatively connected to the drive device (2) and / or the locking unit (9) according to claim 5.

7. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) includes at least two control devices (30a, 30b) arranged on opposite sides of the plane, wherein at least one of the at least two control devices (30a, 30b) is preferably a control unit configured to control an operatively connected component, and at least another of the at least two control devices (30a, 30b) is preferably a power control unit configured to control the power supply to an operatively connected component.

8. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spindle nut (6) is rotatably supported about the first longitudinal axis by at least one bearing (8a, 8b) arranged at a radially outer surface of the spindle nut (6).

9. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In the direction of the first longitudinal axis (L1), the end of the main shaft (3) includes a main shaft recess (3a), which is preferably of a tapered shape tapering from the opening of the main shaft recess (3a) to the closed end of the main shaft recess (3a) and is configured to be able to at least partially receive the actuating member (4, 4', 4"), and the actuating member (4, 4', 4") is preferably operably connected to the main shaft (3) within the main shaft recess (3a).

10. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The main shaft (3) is supported in the direction of the first longitudinal axis (L1) by the main shaft nut (6) and / or at least one bearing member above a predetermined support section, preferably a predetermined support section that at least partially corresponds to the predetermined actuating movement of the main shaft (3) for actuating the brake actuator (20), and the main shaft recess (3a) extends in the direction of the first longitudinal axis (L1) such that the bending force transmission from the actuating member (4, 4', 4") to the main shaft occurs substantially within the predetermined support section.

11. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The actuating member (4, 4', 4") includes an actuating member pivot portion (4c', 4c"), which is configured to allow the actuating member (4, 4', 4") to perform an inclined movement about a pivot axis (17) inclined with respect to the first longitudinal axis (L1), wherein the actuating member (4, 4', 4") includes an actuating member body (4b', 4b"), the actuating member body having the actuating member pivot portion (4c', 4c") at one end and an actuating member head (4a', 4a"), preferably a replaceable and / or at least partially spherical actuating member head (4a', 4a"), at the opposite end, and the actuating member head is configured to be able to engage with the brake actuator (20) to correspondingly actuate the brake actuator (20).

12. The electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to claim 11, wherein, The actuating member pivot portion (4c, 4c') includes at least one actuating member pivot (41c, 41c'), and the at least one actuating member pivot is configured as a cylindrical portion (41c) and / or a spherical portion (41c').

13. A brake assembly (100) comprising: at least one electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; and at least one brake actuator (20), which is configured to actuate or release the brake when actuated by the electromechanical actuator assembly (1).

14. The brake assembly (100) according to claim 13, wherein, The brake assembly (100) further includes a brake caliper (60) that can be actuated by the at least one brake actuator (20), the at least one brake caliper providing a braking plane extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the braking movement, and the at least one electromechanical actuator assembly (1) is arranged such that the first longitudinal axis (L1) is substantially perpendicular to the braking plane, preferably within the symmetry plane of the brake caliper (60), and the at least one brake actuator (20) is arranged between the at least one electromechanical actuator assembly (1) and the brake caliper (60) or within the brake caliper (60).

15. A vehicle comprising at least one electromechanical actuator assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and / or a brake assembly according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The vehicle is a commercial vehicle and / or an electric or hybrid vehicle.

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