Actuator for a vehicle

Abstract

Locking device for locking and / or manipulating a vehicle component as required, such as in particular for locking an electrical plug-in coupling connection as required, in particular between a vehicle-external plug connection and a vehicle-side plug connection, for locking a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required and / or for manipulating, in particular, a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required, wherein the locking device comprises a manipulator, in particular in the form of a locking bolt, and an actuator (1) assigned to the manipulator, which is in particular designed to be accommodated within a housing or within a frame of a vehicle-side charging socket in order to actuate the manipulator as required, wherein the actuator (1) comprises the following: - a housing (2); - a motor (3), in particular an electric motor (3), which is accommodated at least partially or in regions in the housing (2), which has a motor shaft (4) which is designed at least in regions as a threaded or toothed region (5); and - an actuator shaft (6) which is rotatably mounted relative to the housing (2) and which, upon actuation of the motor (3), is rotatable relative to the housing (2) about a longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft (6), characterized in that the actuator shaft (6) is assigned a cup-shaped or pot-shaped and, in particular, hollow-cylindrical region (7), which is designed to be rotationally symmetrical at least in some regions with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6), is arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6) and is connected to the actuator shaft (6), wherein the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) has a toothed or threaded region (11) which is operatively connected to the threaded or toothed region (5) of the motor shaft (4) in such a way that, upon actuation of the motor (3), the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) is rotatable together with the actuator shaft (6) relative to the housing (2) and in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6). can be moved linearly,wherein at least in some areas in the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) a spindle drive is formed, which is designed to move the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) together with the actuator shaft (6) connected thereto linearly in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6) upon rotation of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) about the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6).

Description

[0001] The present invention particularly relates to an actuator for a vehicle. The actuator is, in particular, an actuator for manipulating a vehicle component as needed and / or for locking / unlocking a vehicle component as needed.

[0002] According to the invention, the actuator is part of a locking device and serves for locking and / or manipulating a vehicle component as required, such as in particular for locking an electrical plug in a vehicle-side socket or receptacle, for locking a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required and / or for manipulating in particular a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required.

[0003] The document DE 10 2019 215 836 A1 relates to a linear actuator for a hydraulic braking system, wherein the linear actuator has an electric motor and a pressure piston as well as a downstream rotation-translation gear which converts a motor rotation into the translation of the pressure piston, wherein the rotation-translation gear is designed as a helical worm drive.

[0004] The document DE 10 2013 006 795 A1 relates to an actuating device for a motor vehicle brake system, wherein the actuating device has a master brake cylinder with an actuating piston and an electromechanical brake booster with an electric motor, a pressure element for actuating the actuating piston and a gear via which the electric motor is coupled to the pressure element in order to translate a rotary movement of the electric motor into a translational movement of the pressure element.

[0005] The document EP 2 668 062 B1 relates to a locking device for locking and unlocking a movable part, in particular a charging cable plug or a fuel filler flap, for a vehicle.

[0006] The document DE 10 2011 050 783 A1 also relates to a locking device for locking and unlocking a movable part, in particular a charging cable plug, for a vehicle.

[0007] To charge electric vehicles, they are connected to a charging station connected to a power source via a charging cable. The charging cable has a plug connector (plug) at its vehicle-side end, which can be connected, in particular plugged, to a complementary plug connector (socket / outlet) provided on the vehicle. The plug connector can also be located on the vehicle, and the socket connector can be located on the charging cable. A plug-in coupling connection can also be provided between the charging cable and the charging station.

[0008] Such plug-in coupling connections should be able to be locked during charging to prevent the charging cable from being disconnected from the vehicle or charging station without authorization. This is particularly important when charging vehicles, as vehicles often remain connected to the charging station for extended periods, i.e., many hours, and the driver usually leaves the vehicle during the charging process. Therefore, safety devices are desirable to prevent the charging cable from being removed from one vehicle and connected to another without authorization during the charging process. Furthermore, the plug-in locking mechanism should prevent the plug from being pulled out of the socket during charging to avoid arcing.

[0009] A locking device of the type mentioned above is already known from the document DE 10 2010 023 784 A1.

[0010] In this known locking device, a longitudinally displaceable slider arranged laterally next to a socket is driven by a motor via an articulated lever. The sliding element interacts with a locking bolt, which can be moved transversely to the sliding element by means of a locking bolt guide slot between an unlocked position and a locked position. In this position, the locking bolt penetrates a wall of the socket and also protrudes into an opening in the inserted plug, preventing the plug from being pulled out.

[0011] However, this known locking device requires a relatively large amount of space, particularly if it is designed for larger driving forces.

[0012] On the other hand, charging cables used to charge electric vehicles are becoming increasingly heavier, as such charging cables often have not only an electrical load line extending in a cable sleeve for conducting an electrical current, but also at least one coolant line extending in the cable sleeve for conveying a coolant. In this regard, reference is made, for example, to the publication DE 10 2016 118 193 A1.

[0013] Due to the increasing weight of the charging cable, it is necessary that the locking device must be designed to withstand greater driving forces in order to prevent unlocking even if the plug is pulled at the same time.

[0014] The invention is based on the problem of specifying an actuator, for example for a locking device for an electrical plug-in coupling device arranged on a vehicle, which actuator enables, in particular, a locking of a plug inserted into the plug-in coupling device in a simple and reliable manner, so that unauthorized removal of the plug is prevented.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally to this, the aim is that the actuator can fulfil the function of manipulating a vehicle component, such as a loading or fuel tank flap, in addition to or as an alternative to a locking / unlocking function, i.e. of introducing a force component into the vehicle component, as a result of which the vehicle component is manipulated accordingly, such as moved.

[0016] In particular, the actuator should have a reduced space requirement so that it can be accommodated within the housing / within the frame of the vehicle-side charging socket.

[0017] Such a housing is often designed as a cup-shaped receptacle in which a plug insert (the so-called “charging plug face”) is recessed, whereby the receptacle can be embedded, for example, in the body of a vehicle.

[0018] In this context, it is desirable that the actuator for actuating, for example, a locking device can also be accommodated in the cup-shaped receiving pot serving as a housing, preferably behind the plug insert, in order to achieve encapsulation of the actuator.

[0019] This condition places special demands on the actuator for operating the locking device, as the available installation space is extremely limited.

[0020] Reducing the space requirement of the actuator represents an increasing challenge because, as explained, the actuator must develop relatively high driving forces for the locking bolt.

[0021] Although a locking actuator for a vehicle is known from the document EP 2 937 497 A1, due to its size this locking actuator is not suitable for being accommodated in a cup-shaped receptacle serving as a housing, as is intended according to the invention, namely behind the plug insert in order to achieve encapsulation of the actuator.

[0022] The actuator known from EP 2 937 497 A1 comprises a motor with an output shaft and a reduction gear coupled to the motor's output shaft. In addition to the reduction gear, a shaft with a threaded portion is used, which engages with the reduction gear. The additional shaft is rotatably mounted about an axis, with the threaded portion of the shaft being rotationally fixed relative to the shaft. The actuator further comprises a motion conversion mechanism configured to cause the shaft to be displaced along the axis when the shaft rotates.

[0023] The actuator known from EP 2 937 497 A1 has the particular disadvantage that a relatively large number of individual components must be provided, such as the reduction gear coupled to the motor's output shaft and the additional shaft with the threaded portion engaging the reduction gear. Accordingly, the assembly of the actuator is complex. Furthermore, the actuator requires a relatively large installation space, which is often unavailable.

[0024] Based on this problem, the invention is based on the object of developing an actuator, as is known, for example, from the document EP 2 937 497 A1, in such a way that it has a small installation space, is formed by fewer components and can nevertheless effectively fulfill the function of a linear actuator, so that the actuator is suitable for actuating a locking device and at the same time can be accommodated in the cup-shaped receptacle of a charging socket serving as a housing, preferably behind the plug insert of the charging socket, in order to achieve encapsulation of the actuator.

[0025] This object is achieved according to the invention by the subject matter of independent patent claim 1.

[0026] Accordingly, the invention relates to a locking device for locking and / or manipulating a vehicle component as needed, wherein the locking device comprises a manipulator and an actuator associated with the manipulator. The actuator comprises a housing, a motor at least partially or regionally accommodated in the housing, which motor has a motor shaft that is designed at least partially as a threaded or toothed area, and an actuator shaft rotatably mounted relative to the housing, which, upon actuation of the motor, is rotatable relative to the housing about a longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft.

[0027] Like the actuator known from EP 2 937 497 A1, the actuator according to the invention provides that the motor has a motor shaft that is designed, at least in some areas, as a threaded or toothed area. Furthermore, the actuator according to the invention uses an actuator shaft that is rotatably mounted relative to the housing and, when the motor is actuated, is rotatable relative to the housing about a longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft.

[0028] The actuator used in the locking device according to the invention is characterized in particular in that the actuator shaft is assigned a toothed or threaded area via which the actuator shaft is directly, ie in particular without the interposition of a further toothed or threaded area, in operative connection with the threaded or toothed area of ​​the motor shaft in such a way that when the motor is actuated, the actuator shaft is rotatable relative to the housing and linearly movable in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft.

[0029] The advantages that can be achieved with the solution according to the invention are obvious: because according to the invention the actuator shaft is assigned a toothed or threaded area via which the actuator shaft is directly, i.e. in particular without the interposition of a further toothed or threaded area, in such a way that it is in operative connection with the threaded or toothed area of ​​the motor shaft, an additional shaft with a threaded section can be dispensed with, as is the case with the actuator according to EP 2 937 497 A1.

[0030] This allows the number of actuator components to be reduced, which has a direct impact on the installation space. This is the only way to accommodate the actuator in a cup-shaped housing of a charging socket, particularly behind the charging socket's plug insert.

[0031] In the solution according to the invention, it is provided that the actuator shaft is assigned a cup-shaped or pot-shaped and in particular hollow-cylindrical region, which is designed to be rotationally symmetrical at least in some areas with respect to the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft and is arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft and is connected to the actuator shaft, so that when the motor is actuated, the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region can be rotated together with the actuator shaft relative to the housing and can be moved linearly in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft.

[0032] By providing such a cup-shaped or pot-shaped region, which is at least partially rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft, arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft, and connected to the actuator shaft, an additional shaft with a threaded section can be omitted, as is the case with the actuator according to EP 2 937 497 A1. This allows the number of components of the actuator to be reduced, which has a direct impact on the installation space.

[0033] As with the actuator known from EP 2 937 497 A1, the actuator according to the invention has a motion conversion mechanism. This is preferably designed as a spindle drive, at least in some areas inside the cup- or pot-shaped area.

[0034] The spindle drive is designed in such a way that when the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area rotates around the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft, the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area, together with the actuator shaft connected to it, moves linearly in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft.

[0035] By integrating the motion conversion mechanism in the form of the spindle drive inside the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area of ​​the actuator according to the invention, a particularly compact size can be achieved.

[0036] Furthermore, the motion conversion mechanism is encapsulated by the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area, protecting it from dirt and moisture. This has an advantage with regard to the actuator's longevity.

[0037] According to implementations of the actuator according to the invention, it is provided that the spindle drive, which is formed at least partially in the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region and serves as a motion conversion mechanism in the sense of EP 2 937 497 A1, is formed by a first thread connected to the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region and a second thread connected to the housing, which engages in the first thread.

[0038] For example, it is conceivable for the first thread to be formed in or on an inner peripheral wall of the cup- or pot-shaped region, and in particular to be formed integrally. For example, the cup- or pot-shaped region can be designed as an injection-molded component, with the first thread being formed during the injection molding process.

[0039] According to embodiments, the second thread of the spindle drive is formed in or on a web-shaped or pin-shaped region extending in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft and arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft, which is connected to the housing. Preferably, the web-shaped or pin-shaped region with the second thread is integrally connected to the housing. Here, too, it is advisable to design the housing as an injection-molded part, with the web-shaped or pin-shaped region with the second thread also being formed simultaneously during the injection molding process.

[0040] These embodiments are characterized by the fact that the actuator according to the invention can be manufactured particularly cost-effectively and with a reduced number of individual components. Furthermore, the installation space of the actuator according to the invention is significantly reduced compared to the installation space of the actuator known from EP 2 937 497 A1.

[0041] According to embodiments of the actuator according to the invention, it is provided that a toothed or threaded region is formed at least partially on or in an outer peripheral wall of the cup- or pot-shaped region, which is operatively connected to the threaded or toothed region of the motor shaft in such a way that, upon rotation of the motor shaft, the cup- or pot-shaped region is rotated together with the actuator shaft about the longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft. In particular, it is provided in this context that the toothed or threaded region formed at least partially on or in the outer peripheral wall of the cup- or pot-shaped region is operatively connected directly to the threaded or toothed region of the motor shaft. In this way, if desired, a reduction gear can be realized, albeit with a significantly reduced space requirement.

[0042] As an alternative to the aforementioned embodiment, it can be provided that in or on an outer circumferential wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region, a plurality of toothed regions are formed which are evenly distributed over the circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region and which, when the motor is actuated, are in direct engagement with the threaded or toothed region of the motor shaft in such a way that a rotation of the motor shaft is directly transferred into a rotation of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region.

[0043] In this context, it is particularly conceivable that the motor shaft has a threaded area with a thread pitch, and that the tooth areas evenly distributed over the circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area are arranged inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis by an angle adapted to the thread pitch.

[0044] This measure ensures that the threaded area of ​​the motor shaft is always in engagement with the toothed area of ​​the cup- or pot-shaped area, even if the cup- or pot-shaped area is displaced in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft relative to the housing.

[0045] The cup- or pot-shaped region preferably has a lateral surface defining the outer peripheral wall, which has a height extending in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft that corresponds to at least one achievable movement stroke of the cup- or pot-shaped region upon actuation of the motor. The toothed regions preferably extend over at least 50%, preferably over at least 75%, and even more preferably over at least 85% of the height of the lateral surface of the cup- or pot-shaped region. This allows for a particularly compact design.

[0046] According to embodiments of the actuator according to the invention, the actuator further comprises a position sensor for detecting a rotational position of the motor shaft and / or the actuator shaft, wherein the actuator is preferably assigned a controller connected to the position sensor for controlling the motor.

[0047] Preferably, the position sensor is arranged in an area on the outer circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area and has at least one incremental encoder and / or absolute encoder in order to detect the rotational position of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area.

[0048] Alternatively or in addition to the above-mentioned embodiment of the actuator according to the invention, it has at least one sensor for position feedback, in particular in the form of an encoder or rotary encoder, wherein the sensor is preferably arranged in a region on the outer circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region.

[0049] The present disclosure further relates to a door handle system having a door handle and optionally a door lock, wherein the door handle system has an actuator of the type according to the invention described above, which is designed to actuate the door handle or the optionally provided door lock as required.

[0050] According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a locking device for locking an electrical plug in a vehicle-mounted socket, wherein the locking device has a locking bolt and an actuator associated with the locking bolt according to the type described above according to the invention, which is designed to be accommodated within a housing or within a frame of a vehicle-mounted charging socket in order to actuate the locking bolt as required.

[0051] The invention relates to a locking device for locking and / or manipulating a vehicle component as required, such as in particular for locking an electrical plug-in coupling connection as required, in particular between a vehicle-external plug connection and a vehicle-side plug connection, for locking a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required and / or for manipulating a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required.

[0052] For this purpose, the locking device comprises a manipulator, in particular in the form of a locking bolt, and an actuator of the type described above according to the invention associated with the manipulator. The actuator is particularly designed to be accommodated within a housing or within a frame of a vehicle-mounted charging socket in order to actuate the manipulator as needed.

[0053] According to implementations of this locking device, it is preferably provided that the actuator assigned to the manipulator is designed to move the manipulator in a superimposed linear and rotational movement upon actuation of the actuator.

[0054] The manipulator optionally has a manipulation region on its side facing away from the actuator, which is designed to interact with a region of a vehicle component complementary to the manipulation region during the superimposed linear and rotational movement of the manipulator in such a way that a force moment is introduced into the vehicle component.

[0055] The manipulation area can, for example, be a type of “key bit” which, in particular after the manipulator, which is designed in particular in the form of a locking bolt, has been inserted into a receptacle of the vehicle component, detects and accordingly manipulates an area of ​​the vehicle component which is designed to be complementary to the manipulation area when the manipulator is rotated.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, the manipulation area can be a gripping area which, in particular after the introduction of the manipulator, which is in particular designed in the form of a locking bolt, into a receptacle of the vehicle component, grips and pulls or pushes away an area of ​​the vehicle component which is designed to be complementary to the manipulation area when the manipulator is rotated.

[0057] Furthermore, the invention relates to a charging cradle system with a charging cradle in which a charging socket is arranged, and optionally with a charging flap, wherein the charging cradle system has a locking device with an actuator according to the type according to the invention described above, wherein the actuator is designed to lock or unlock a charging plug in the charging socket as required or to block or release a charging plug in the charging socket as required, and wherein the actuator is optionally additionally designed to manipulate the optionally provided charging flap as required.

[0058] An embodiment of the actuator according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0059] They show: Fig. 1 schematically and in an isometric view an exemplary embodiment of the actuator according to the invention; Fig. 2 schematically and in a plan view the exemplary embodiment of the actuator according to the invention according to Fig. 1 with open case; Fig. 3 schematically and in an isometric view, the motor accommodated in the housing of the exemplary embodiment of the actuator according to the invention with the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area; Fig. 4 schematically and in an isometric view the lower housing part of the exemplary embodiment of the actuator according to the invention with the web- or pin-shaped region of the spindle drive formed integrally with the housing and the corresponding thread; Fig. 5 schematically and in an isometric view the housing shell according to Fig. 4 with the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area placed on the web-shaped or pin-shaped area; and Fig. 6 schematically and in an isometric view of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region of the exemplary embodiment of the actuator according to the invention from below, so that at least some of the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region is visible.

[0060] The actuator 1 according to the invention, as described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings using an exemplary embodiment, is a linear actuator which is suitable, for example, for use in a covering device of a vehicle.

[0061] Covers and covering devices are known in practice for vehicles in a wide variety of designs. In conventional motor vehicles, covers and covering devices are used, for example, to conceal filler necks for fuels such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas, hydrogen, or e-fuel. In electric vehicles, however, power connections must be concealed by means of covering devices. Such covering devices can also be used to cover, for example, storage compartments inside a vehicle.

[0062] Furthermore, covers and recesses arranged behind them can also be used in the area of ​​windshield washer fluid reservoirs or water reservoirs for supplying water to combustion engines to increase performance / efficiency or to add other additives. Such water reservoirs can also be associated with a vehicle battery.

[0063] Covering the vehicle with covers is primarily done for aesthetic reasons. The covers should be flush with the exterior contours of the vehicle to create an aesthetically pleasing overall appearance.

[0064] In addition to aesthetic reasons, the covers sometimes also regulate access to the tank or trough (lockable covers). The covers also often meet the requirement of tightness behind the cover. Particularly in loading troughs, tightness in the area of ​​the connectors is a requirement, with this being ensured, in particular, by seals molded onto a hinge arm.

[0065] The covering devices themselves are based on different principles. For example, mechanical and automatic covering devices are known.

[0066] One disadvantage of mechanical covers that must be opened and closed manually is that the user can get their hands dirty when opening or closing the covers. Furthermore, users are placing ever-increasing demands on comfort and luxury in vehicles, which manually opened covers can no longer meet these days.

[0067] The same applies to autonomous driving or autonomous charging of batteries, where automatic covering devices are necessary.

[0068] Accordingly, cover devices for vehicles have been developed that open and close automatically. The opening and closing process is carried out by a motor that drives the cover or a hinge arm, pivot arm, or other element thereof.

[0069] However, there is a problem with these cover devices in that there is usually only very little space available to accommodate a corresponding actuator.

[0070] The available installation space is reduced even further if the actuator 1 or another actuator 1 is also to assume the function of locking or unlocking a charging plug in a charging socket of the charging cradle as required.

[0071] The same problem regarding installation space is encountered with automatically operated door handle assemblies. Door handle assemblies are used in vehicles to open and close doors or flaps located in body openings. The door handle assemblies considered here are, in particular, door handle assemblies in which the door handle can be operated, at least selectively, automatically with the aid of an actuator. The same applies, in a figurative sense, to the operation of a corresponding door lock.

[0072] The reduced installation space is particularly important when the door handle of the door handle assembly has to be moved from a flush and, in particular, strictly flush rest position into an exposed working position with the aid of the actuator.

[0073] Accordingly, there is a need for an actuator for a vehicle that serves as a linear actuator and is particularly characterized by the fact that it functions reliably while maintaining high performance despite a reduced installation space.

[0074] An exemplary embodiment of the actuator 1 according to the invention is shown in the drawings.

[0075] The actuator 1 has a housing 2, preferably consisting of two housing shells, in which a motor 3, in particular an electric motor 3, is accommodated at least partially or in some areas.

[0076] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the motor 3 has a motor shaft 4 which is designed at least in part as a threaded area 5.

[0077] The actuator 1 further comprises an actuator shaft 6, which is rotatably mounted relative to the housing 2. When the motor 3 is actuated, the actuator shaft 6 is rotatable relative to the housing 2 about a longitudinal axis L of the actuator shaft 6.

[0078] The actuator 1 according to the invention, as shown in the drawings using an exemplary embodiment, is characterized in particular in that a cup-shaped or pot-shaped and in particular hollow-cylindrical region 7 is assigned to the actuator shaft 6.

[0079] As is particularly evident in the presentation in Fig. 3, the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 is designed to be rotationally symmetrical, at least in some areas, with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the actuator shaft 6 and is arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis L of the actuator shaft 6 and is preferably integrally connected to the actuator shaft 6. Upon actuation of the motor 3, the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 is thus rotated together with the actuator shaft 6 relative to the housing 2 and moved linearly in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft 6.

[0080] A spindle drive is formed inside the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7, which is designed to move the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 together with the actuator shaft 6 connected thereto linearly in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft 6 upon rotation of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 about the longitudinal axis L of the actuator shaft 6.

[0081] In the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings, it is provided that the spindle drive formed at least partially in the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 is formed by a first thread 8 connected to the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 and a second thread 9 connected to the housing 2, which second thread engages in the first thread.

[0082] As is particularly evident in the presentation in Fig. 6 can be removed, the first thread 8 of the spindle drive is formed in or on an inner peripheral wall of the cup- or pot-shaped area 7.

[0083] The representation in Fig. 4, however, it can be seen that the second thread 9 is formed in or on a web-shaped or pin-shaped region 10 extending in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft 6 and arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis L of the actuator shaft 6, which is integrally connected (in particular during an injection molding process) to the lower housing shell of the housing 2.

[0084] On or in an outer peripheral wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7, a toothed region 11 is formed at least in part, which toothed region 11 is operatively connected to the threaded region 5 of the motor shaft 4 in such a way that when the motor shaft 4 rotates, the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 is rotated together with the actuator shaft 6 about the longitudinal axis L of the actuator shaft 6.

[0085] In particular, in the exemplary embodiment of the actuator 1 according to the invention, it is provided that the tooth region 11 formed at least partially on or in the outer peripheral wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 is in operative connection directly with the threaded region 5 of the motor shaft 4.

[0086] In detail, for example, the representation in Fig. 3 that in or on an outer circumferential wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 a plurality of toothed regions 11 are formed which are evenly distributed over the circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 and which, when the motor 3 is actuated, are in direct engagement with the threaded region 5 of the motor shaft 4 such that a rotation of the motor shaft 4 is directly transmitted into a rotation of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7.

[0087] The tooth regions 11, which are evenly distributed over the circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7, are arranged inclined relative to the longitudinal axis L by an angle adapted to the thread pitch of the thread region of the motor shaft 4.

[0088] The cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 has a lateral surface defining the outer peripheral wall, which has a height extending in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft 6, which corresponds at least to a movement stroke of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7 that can be achieved when the motor 3 is actuated.

[0089] Preferably, the tooth regions extend over at least 50%, preferably over at least 75% and even more preferably over at least 85% of the height of the lateral surface of the cup- or pot-shaped region 7.

[0090] As is the case, for example, in the presentation in Fig. 5 or the representation in Fig.6, it is preferred that the actuator 1 further comprises a position transmitter 12 and / or a sensor 12 for position feedback.

[0091] The position sensor 12 can be designed, for example, as an incremental encoder or an absolute encoder. A sensor 12 for position feedback can be designed, for example, as an encoder or rotary encoder.

[0092] In the exemplary embodiment of the actuator 1 according to the invention, the position sensor or sensor 12 serves for position feedback to detect a rotational position or position of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region 7. This information can be fed to a controller assigned to the actuator 1 in order to appropriately control the motor 3.

[0093] The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in the drawings, but results from a combination of all features disclosed herein. List of reference symbols 1 actuator 2 housings 3 Engine 4 Motor shaft 5 Threaded area of ​​the motor shaft 6 Actuator shaft 7 bowl- or pot-shaped area 8 first thread of the spindle drive 9 second thread of the spindle drive 10 web- or pin-shaped area of ​​the housing 11 Tooth area of ​​the cup-shaped or pot-shaped area 12 Position encoder / sensor for position feedback L Longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft

Claims

[1] Locking device for locking and / or manipulating a vehicle component as required, such as in particular for locking an electrical plug-in coupling connection as required, in particular between a vehicle-external plug connection and a vehicle-side plug connection, for locking a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required and / or for manipulating, in particular, a loading flap or fuel tank flap of a vehicle as required, wherein the locking device comprises a manipulator, in particular in the form of a locking bolt, and an actuator (1) associated with the manipulator, which is in particular designed to be accommodated within a housing or within a frame of a vehicle-side charging socket in order to actuate the manipulator as required, wherein the actuator (1) comprises the following: - a housing (2); - a motor (3), in particular an electric motor (3), which is accommodated at least partially or in regions in the housing (2), which has a motor shaft (4) which is designed at least in regions as a threaded or toothed region (5); and - an actuator shaft (6) which is rotatably mounted relative to the housing (2) and which, when the motor (3) is actuated, is rotatable relative to the housing (2) about a longitudinal axis of the actuator shaft (6), characterized bythat the actuator shaft (6) is assigned a cup-shaped or pot-shaped and in particular hollow-cylindrical region (7), which is at least partially rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6) and arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6) and is connected to the actuator shaft (6), wherein the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) has a toothed or threaded region (11) which is operatively connected to the threaded or toothed region (5) of the motor shaft (4) in such a way that, upon actuation of the motor (3), the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) together with the actuator shaft (6) is rotatable relative to the housing (2) and linearly movable in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6), wherein at least partially in the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) a spindle drive is formed, which is designed,upon rotation of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) about the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6), to move the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) together with the actuator shaft (6) connected thereto linearly in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6). [2] Locking device according to claim 1, wherein the actuator shaft (6) is assigned a toothed or threaded region (11), via which the actuator shaft (6) is directly and in particular without the interposition of a further toothed or threaded region in operative connection with the threaded or toothed region (5) of the motor shaft (4) in such a way that when the motor (3) is actuated, the actuator shaft (6) is rotatable relative to the housing (2) and linearly movable in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6). [3] Locking device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spindle drive formed at least partially in the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) is formed by a first thread (8) connected to the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) and a second thread (9) connected to the housing (2) which engages in the first thread (8). [4] Locking device according to claim 3, wherein the first thread (8) is formed in or on an inner peripheral wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7); and / or wherein the second thread (9) is formed in or on a web-shaped or pin-shaped region (10) extending in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6) and arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6), which is connected to the housing (2), wherein the web-shaped or pin-shaped region (10) of the spindle drive formed at least partially in the interior of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) is preferably integrally connected to the housing (2). [5] Locking device according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein on or in an outer peripheral wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) at least in some areas a toothed or threaded region (11) is formed, which is in operative connection with the threaded or toothed region (5) of the motor shaft (4) in such a way that upon rotation of the motor shaft (4) the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) together with the actuator shaft (6) are rotated about the longitudinal axis (L) of the actuator shaft (6), wherein the toothed or threaded region (11) formed at least in some areas on or in the outer peripheral wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) is in operative connection, in particular directly, with the threaded or toothed region (5) of the motor shaft (4). [6] Locking device according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein in or on an outer peripheral wall of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) a plurality of toothed regions (11) are formed which are evenly distributed over the circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7), which toothed regions (11) are directly engaged with the threaded or toothed region (5) of the motor shaft (4) when the motor (3) is actuated, such that a rotation of the motor shaft (4) is directly transferred into a rotation of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7). [7] Locking device according to claim 6, wherein the motor shaft (4) has a threaded region (5) with a thread pitch, and wherein the tooth regions (11) evenly distributed over the circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) are arranged inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) by an angle adapted to the thread pitch. [8] Locking device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) has a lateral surface defining the outer peripheral wall, which has a height extending in the longitudinal direction of the actuator shaft (6) which corresponds at least to a movement stroke of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) achievable upon actuation of the motor (3). [9] Locking device according to claim 8, wherein the tooth regions (11) extend over at least 50%, preferably over at least 75% and more preferably over at least 85% of the height of the lateral surface of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7). [10] Locking device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the actuator (1) further comprises a position sensor (12) for detecting a rotational position of the motor shaft (4) and / or the actuator shaft (6), and wherein the actuator (1) is preferably assigned a controller connected to the position sensor (12) for controlling the motor (3), wherein the position sensor (12) is preferably arranged in a region on the outer circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7) and in particular comprises at least one incremental encoder and / or absolute value encoder. [11] Locking device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the actuator (1) has at least one sensor (12) for position feedback, in particular in the form of an encoder or rotary encoder, for detecting a position of the motor shaft (4) and / or the actuator shaft (6), and wherein the actuator (1) is preferably assigned a controller connected to the sensor (12) for position feedback for controlling the motor (3), wherein the sensor (12) for position feedback is preferably arranged in a region on the outer circumference of the cup-shaped or pot-shaped region (7). [12] Locking device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the actuator (1) assigned to the manipulator is designed to move the manipulator in a superimposed linear and rotational movement upon actuation of the actuator (1), wherein the manipulator optionally has a manipulation region on its side facing away from the actuator (1), which manipulator is designed to interact with a region of a vehicle component complementary to the manipulation region during the superimposed linear and rotational movement of the manipulator in such a way that a force moment is introduced into the vehicle component. [13] Charging trough system with a charging trough in which a charging socket is arranged, and optionally with a charging flap, wherein the charging trough system has a locking device with an actuator (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the actuator (1) is designed to lock or unlock a charging plug in the charging socket as needed or to block or release a charging plug in the charging socket as needed, and / or wherein the actuator (1) is designed to manipulate the optionally provided charging flap and / or another component, in particular of the charging trough system, as needed.

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