Assembly for a linear actuator, assembly comprising at least two such assemblies, linear actuator comprising a motor and at least one such assembly or at least one such assembly, and method for linear displacement of a spindle

Abstract

Assembly (5) for a linear actuator (1), the assembly (5) comprising a spindle and a spindle nut (9) coupled to the spindle (7), wherein the spindle nut (9) has a driveable output structure (11) and / or is operatively connected to a driveable output structure (11) of the assembly (5), wherein a rotational movement of the spindle nut (9) about a first axis of rotation (D1) can be effected by a rotational movement of the output structure about a second axis of rotation (D2) for the linear displacement of the spindle (7), wherein the spindle nut (9) is held axially in position by means of a threaded ring (21).

Description

field of technology

[0001] The present invention relates to an assembly for a linear actuator, a group of assemblies comprising at least two such assemblies, and a linear actuator comprising a motor and at least one such assembly or at least one such group of assemblies. The present invention further relates to a method for the linear displacement of a spindle. State of the art

[0002] Various types of linear actuators are known from the prior art.

[0003] For example, these are offered in a design where the rotor of a servo motor simultaneously functions as a spindle nut and rotates around an axially displaceable spindle. This type of linear actuator is often extremely complex in its construction. Consequently, the manufacturing and maintenance of such linear actuators are also comparatively costly. Furthermore, due to the integrated design, adjusting the spindle stroke is only possible with considerable effort and requires a linear actuator design tailored to the specific spindle configuration. Subsequent changes to the spindle stroke or other parameters, such as the spindle pitch, typically necessitate a complete redesign of the actuator. Spindle repairs are also expensive and time-consuming, as the entire linear actuator must be disassembled.

[0004] The overall length of such linear actuators is influenced by the stroke. This means that even with relatively short strokes, starting at, for example, 100 mm, the overall length becomes relatively large. Additional motor options, such as motor brakes, are added to the overall length and thus increase the actuator's length accordingly.

[0005] Existing linear actuators are also available in a configuration where a spindle is rotated by an attached servo motor, thereby axially displacing the spindle nut, which is secured against rotation, along the spindle. The spindle nut is connected to a cylindrical tube, which can be arranged around the spindle as a piston tube, and which generates the stroke. However, this variant often requires considerable space, as increasing the stroke increases the overall size of the linear actuator. Furthermore, the spindle configuration typically cannot be modified after purchase, and maintenance of the linear actuator is also comparatively complex.

[0006] Besides their complex design, all these linear actuators have in common that their properties, such as stroke length and spindle pitch, are determined by the initial selection and cannot easily be changed afterwards.

[0007] The DE 10 2021 202 609 A1 reveals an actuator of a steer-by-wire steering system.

[0008] DE 10 2018 212 959 A1 discloses a spindle drive comprising a drive unit, a spindle, and a spindle nut engaged in threaded engagement with the spindle, wherein the spindle nut is driven by the drive unit via a drive element, and wherein the spindle nut is mounted on the drive element in such a way that the spindle nut and the spindle engaged in threaded engagement with it are pivotable relative to the drive element.

[0009] DE 10 2018 204 248 A1 discloses a spindle drive with a drive motor connected to a multi-part gearbox housing, wherein the gearbox housing has a housing base body in which a receiving space for a drive element arranged in operative connection with a spindle is formed, wherein the drive element can be driven by the drive motor, wherein the receiving space is closed at least at one end face by a cover element, and wherein spring means are provided which subject the drive element within the receiving space to an axial force acting in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the spindle, so that the drive element is arranged in the receiving space without axial play, and wherein the spring means are arranged at least indirectly in contact with the at least one cover element.

[0010] DE 201 15 608 U1 discloses an adjustment drive with two opposing spindles.

[0011] DE 20 2004 007 288 U1 discloses a telescopic linear drive.

[0012] EP 2 840 282 B1 discloses an actuator comprising limit switches. Summary of the invention

[0013] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome the described disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide means that make it possible to provide precisely adjustable and compact linear actuators even for comparatively large adjustment ranges, which are also easy to manufacture and maintain and, above all, easily adaptable to new operating conditions.

[0014] The problem is solved by the invention according to a first aspect by proposing an assembly, in particular for a linear actuator, comprising a spindle and a spindle nut coupled to the spindle, wherein the spindle nut has a driveable output structure and / or is operatively connected to a driveable output structure of the assembly, wherein a rotational movement of the spindle nut about a first axis of rotation can be effected by a rotational movement of the output structure about a second axis of rotation for the linear displacement of the spindle, wherein the spindle nut is held axially in position by means of a threaded ring.

[0015] The invention is thus based on the surprising finding that a particularly flexible and simple assembly is possible by providing an output structure, which also makes it easy to use conventional spindles together with their respective spindle nuts in the assembly with only minor adjustments to the output structure.

[0016] This allows the use of existing and proven components. At the same time, the manufacturing and maintenance of the assembly is particularly easy, as the spindle and spindle nut can be easily removed, cleaned, and / or replaced.

[0017] At the same time, the proposed assembly allows for a comparatively large adjustment range, or stroke. The spindle's displacement can be adjusted with extreme precision along the entire adjustment range via the precisely controllable rotation of the output structure. Furthermore, the proposed design can be implemented in a very compact form.

[0018] In this way, linear actuators equipped with the proposed assembly can provide large strokes with precise adjustment of the travel distance. Since the design requires relatively few parts, maintenance is comparatively simple and the assembly can be compact.

[0019] In the proposed assembly, the spindle and spindle nut can be advantageously easily interchangeable. This allows the assembly to be universally applicable and easily adapted to different operating conditions through various spindle configurations. Replacing the spindle is also easily accomplished. This makes the proposed assembly particularly economical.

[0020] A greater stroke is easily achieved by using a longer spindle. The other dimensions of the assembly can advantageously remain unchanged. This allows the stroke to be variably adjusted even in existing installations.

[0021] This assembly is particularly advantageous wherever precise linear positioning of components, a highly compact design, high thrust forces, and / or high spindle speeds are required. For example, the assembly is especially well-suited for injection molds and / or linear actuators for injection molds. The proposed assembly is also particularly advantageous for executing linear motion of a component in a machine tool.

[0022] The assembly is therefore preferably used in a linear actuator, particularly in combination with a motor such as a servo motor. Advantageously, the assembly can also be easily retrofitted to existing linear actuators. This allows existing linear actuators to benefit from the advantages of the invention and thus operate more economically.

[0023] The assembly is also preferably designed for use in a plate system, for example for an injection mold and / or a press. A plate system, as described in more detail below, can eliminate the need for a housing and / or allows for particularly simple and reliable coupling of multiple assemblies.

[0024] The output structure is advantageously provided by the assembly, especially if the output structure (which is preferably the case) is designed as a separate part and / or is in operative connection with the spindle nut.

[0025] It is obvious that the rotational movement of the output structure is advantageously accompanied by the rotational movement of the spindle nut.

[0026] The linear displacement of the spindle is, for example, a displacement along a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation. Preferably, the first axis of rotation is identical to a central axis of the spindle.

[0027] The maximum adjustment range is determined, for example, wholly or at least partially, by the length of the spindle along the direction of travel. For instance, the spindle might have a length between 100 mm and 1000 mm.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, the output structure may also include a ring gear, a gear and / or a worm gear, wherein preferably (a) the output structure further comprises at least one retaining means, such as a receiving flange, arranged in particular concentrically to the worm gear and / or formed integrally with the worm gear, to which retaining means the worm gear is attached, in particular by means of at least one threaded ring, and / or with which retaining means the worm gear is coupled in a rotationally secure manner, and / or (b) the worm gear has helical teeth and / or the spindle nut is in operative connection with this output structure, and / or at least one bearing element is provided for supporting the output structure.

[0029] The output structure is advantageously designed as at least one separate part. This makes the spindle nut inserted into this part easily replaceable, for example in the event of wear.

[0030] Preferably, the output structure, particularly in the form of a ring gear, includes an angular contact ball bearing. The angular contact ball bearing can, for example, hold the output structure in position relative to a reference element, such as the housing of a linear actuator in which the assembly may be installed.

[0031] If the output structure is designed as a gear, the gear teeth advantageously have a first number of teeth.

[0032] If the output structure is designed as a worm gear with helical teeth, the toothing of the worm gear advantageously has a second number of teeth.

[0033] In one embodiment, the output structure is designed in multiple parts. In this case, for example, the worm gear can be detachably attached to the holding element as a separate component. By providing the holding element as a separate component, it is advantageously possible to use different materials for the different parts; for example, the holding element can be made of steel and the worm gear of bronze.

[0034] The spindle nut is preferably at least partially received within the holding element. For example, the holding element has a bore. This allows the spindle nut to be reliably received within the holding element. In one embodiment, the holding element is designed to be at least partially hollow and cylindrical.

[0035] The holding means advantageously has a main extent along the second axis of rotation.

[0036] Alternatively, the drive structure can advantageously be designed as a single piece.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the spindle nut, in particular along the first axis of rotation, is received and / or arranged at least sectionally and / or at least partially, preferably completely, within the output structure.

[0038] This allows for a particularly compact assembly design. At the same time, it is advantageous that the spindle nut is held in a fixed axial position. For example, the output structure can be designed or provided with a shoulder against which the spindle nut rests. This shoulder allows the movement of the spindle nut to be limited particularly easily and reliably along at least one axial direction.

[0039] For example, the output structure can have a bore, preferably extending axially and / or concentrically to the second axis of rotation. The spindle nut can be accommodated in this bore.

[0040] Preferably, the output structure has a hollow cylindrical base body (particularly with a main extension along the first and / or second axis of rotation). The spindle nut can advantageously be wholly or partially enclosed within this base body. The base body can advantageously be a separate part (such as the aforementioned retaining element) of a multi-part output structure.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the spindle nut is arranged concentrically to the output structure and / or that the spindle nut is formed integrally with the output structure.

[0042] The spindle nut is advantageously surrounded at least partially and / or at least partially by the output structure.

[0043] In one embodiment, the output structure is permanently connected to the spindle nut without damage; in particular, the output structure and the spindle nut are glued and / or welded together.

[0044] When the spindle nut and output structure are formed as a single unit, it is advantageous for both to be made of the same material. This allows the spindle nut and output structure to be manufactured and / or designed together as a single part in a particularly simple manner. This enables especially cost-effective manufacturing and a robust design of the assembly.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the spindle nut is coupled to the output structure in a rotationally secure manner, in particular by means of a key, wherein preferably the key is provided by the spindle nut and / or is at least partially received within a groove provided by the output structure.

[0046] Alternatively, the key can also be provided by the output structure and / or at least partially accommodated within a groove provided by the spindle nut.

[0047] This means that the spindle nut can be secured against rotational movement relative to the output structure by means of the key.

[0048] The keyway allows for a particularly simple yet secure coupling of the two components. This makes it especially easy to achieve a rotational movement of the spindle nut through a rotational movement of the output structure.

[0049] The spindle nut and the output structure are preferably two separate parts.

[0050] The groove allows the spindle nut to be easily inserted into and removed from the output structure.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the output structure is a toothing, in particular at least partially and / or at least partially, of the spindle nut, wherein the toothing preferably runs along a circumferential direction of the spindle nut perpendicular to the first axis of rotation and / or on an outer surface of the spindle nut.

[0052] By incorporating teeth on the spindle nut, a driven output structure can be provided particularly easily. Furthermore, manufacturing is cost-effective and fewer parts are required. This makes assembly and maintenance of the component cheaper and simpler.

[0053] Such a gear can replace a separate output structure in the form of a separate gear. Similarly, a helical gear can replace a separate output structure in the form of a separate worm gear. This makes the assembly more compact in each case.

[0054] The toothing advantageously has a third number of teeth.

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the assembly has a drive structure, in particular rotatable about a third axis of rotation, which interacts with the output structure, in particular interacting in such a way that a rotational movement of the drive structure about the third axis of rotation can effect the rotational movement of the output structure about the second axis of rotation and / or the rotational movement of the spindle nut about the first axis of rotation.

[0056] This allows the drive structure to advantageously interact with the output structure, which may be designed as a separate part or integrally with the spindle nut. Likewise, the drive structure can advantageously interact with the output structure provided by the spindle nut.

[0057] The drive structure is advantageously driven or can be driven by a motor (such as a linear actuator).

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, the drive structure may also include a worm shaft, wherein preferably the axial extension direction of the worm shaft is perpendicular to the axial extension direction of the spindle, a gear and / or a ring gear and / or is coupled or can be coupled to a motor, in particular an electric motor and / or a servo motor.

[0059] Advantageously, the worm shaft has at least a section of a winding, particularly a helical one. The winding is advantageously designed as an outer structure. For example, the worm shaft can be a single piece or multiple pieces. For instance, the worm shaft can be a shaft, particularly a cylindrical one, with a worm mounted on it.

[0060] A drive structure designed as a worm shaft is particularly advantageous when the output structure is designed as a worm wheel and / or as helical teeth provided on the spindle nut. In an advantageous embodiment, therefore, the drive structure is designed as a worm shaft and the output structure as a worm wheel (especially with helical teeth) and / or as helical teeth provided on the spindle nut.

[0061] A drive structure designed as a gear is particularly advantageous if the output structure is designed as a gear and / or as teeth provided on the spindle nut. In an advantageous embodiment, therefore, the drive structure is designed as a gear and the output structure is designed as a gear and / or as teeth provided on the spindle nut.

[0062] A drive structure designed as a gear advantageously has a fourth number of teeth.

[0063] Because the worm shaft runs perpendicular to the direction of travel / axial extension of the spindle, the assembly can be installed particularly advantageously and in a space-saving manner transverse to the drive direction. This also makes it advantageous to couple several linear actuators together. Thus, several linear actuators can be driven with just one motor, a point that will be discussed in more detail later.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the drive structure and the output structure are aligned and / or designed in such a way that a toothing and / or a, in particular helical, winding of the drive structure and a toothing and / or a, in particular helical, winding of the output structure interlock.

[0065] Advantageously, both the drive structure and the output structure each have a toothed connection. Alternatively, the drive structure can have a winding (such as a helical winding) and the output structure a toothed connection (such as a helical gear).

[0066] For example, in the case of one gear each as the drive structure and the output structure, the teeth of the gear of the drive structure mesh with the teeth of the gear of the output structure.

[0067] In one embodiment, the worm shaft (as the drive structure) interacts with the worm wheel (as the output structure).

[0068] For example, in the case of a worm shaft as the drive structure and a worm wheel as the output structure, the teeth of the worm wheel of the output structure engage with the winding of the worm shaft of the drive structure.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that a transmission is provided between the output structure and the drive structure.

[0070] Advantageously, both the output and input structures are designed as gears (or the input structure as a gear and the output structure as the teeth of the spindle nut), and the first and / or third set of teeth is chosen to be different from the fourth set of teeth. This makes implementing a gear ratio particularly easy. The gear ratio is the ratio of the first or third set of teeth to the fourth set of teeth.

[0071] The translation can advantageously be achieved by including further components present in the assembly.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the spindle is a ball screw spindle or a roller screw spindle and / or that the assembly has a spindle cover.

[0073] A ball screw or a roller screw screw can be used to achieve a particularly advantageous high traverse speed with simultaneously high thrust forces and high efficiency.

[0074] For example, the spindle can be movable between a retracted and an extended position. The spindle cover can, for instance, serve to enclose at least a section of the spindle. This ensures that the spindle is reliably protected from external influences even when fully or partially retracted.

[0075] Optionally, the assembly may also include at least one sealing element, in particular in the form of at least one sealing ring.

[0076] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that (i) the rotational movement of the spindle nut about the first axis of rotation is a rotational movement during which the spindle nut is stationary along the first axis of rotation, (ii) the rotational movement of the output structure about the second axis of rotation is a rotational movement during which the output structure is stationary along the second axis of rotation, and / or (iii) the rotational movement of the drive structure about the third axis of rotation is a rotational movement during which the drive structure is stationary along the third axis of rotation.

[0077] Because each element is fixed in position along its respective axis of rotation, a particularly compact design is possible. Despite its fixed position along the axis of rotation, the element can, of course, rotate around that axis. However, it does not shift (e.g., along the axis of rotation).

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the rotational movement of the spindle nut around the first axis of rotation can cause a linear displacement of the spindle and / or that the linear displacement of the spindle is a movement of the spindle along the first axis of rotation.

[0079] Accordingly, the spindle and spindle nut work together advantageously and in a manner known per se.

[0080] It is preferred that, when the spindle nut performs a rotational movement about the first axis of rotation in a first direction of rotation, the spindle is displaced, particularly along the first axis of rotation, in a first axial direction, and / or when the spindle nut performs a rotational movement about the first axis of rotation in a second direction of rotation (opposite to the first direction of rotation), the spindle is displaced, particularly along the first axis of rotation, in a second axial direction (opposite to the first axial direction). An axial direction is, in particular, a direction parallel to the central axis of the spindle.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that (i) the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation are identical, (ii) the first axis of rotation and / or the second axis of rotation is or is parallel to and spaced apart from the third axis of rotation, and / or (iii) the first axis of rotation and / or the second axis of rotation is or is perpendicular to the third axis of rotation.

[0082] In particular, if the spindle nut is arranged coaxially to the output structure (especially within the output structure), the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation advantageously coincide, i.e., are identical.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the spindle nut is held axially in position by means of a threaded ring, in particular relative to the driven output structure, wherein preferably the threaded ring restricts the axial displacement of the spindle nut, in particular along at least one axial direction and / or the threaded ring is screwed or screwable into the driven output structure.

[0084] Advantageously, the spindle and spindle nut can be easily detached from the other parts of the assembly simply by loosening and removing the threaded ring. This makes it particularly easy to remove and reinstall the spindle and spindle nut, for example, for lubrication purposes. This simplifies the maintenance of the entire assembly.

[0085] The problem is solved by the invention according to a second aspect in that an assembly comprising at least two assemblies, each of which is designed according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein preferably (i) the drive structures of the individual assemblies are realized by a common drive structure, preferably rotatable about the third axis of rotation, (ii) the drive structures of the individual assemblies can be set into a rotational movement via a common means coupled to the individual drive structures, and / or (iii) the drive structures of the individual assemblies are coupled to each other, in particular each drive structure of an assembly is coupled to a further drive structure of at least another assembly, and wherein preferably by setting at least one of the drive structures into a rotational movement the remaining drive structures can also be set into a rotational movement.is proposed.

[0086] Advantageously, the spindles of the several assemblies of the assembly can be moved, preferably synchronously, using only one motor.

[0087] This makes it advantageous, for example in an injection mold, that several slides can be moved with only one motor.

[0088] All the advantages described with respect to the assembly according to the first aspect of the invention also apply accordingly to the assembly group according to the second aspect of the invention, unless the context indicates otherwise. Therefore, reference may be made to the preceding statements.

[0089] Advantageously, any of the drive structures described in relation to the assembly according to the first aspect of the invention can be used as a common drive structure. For example, the common drive structure can be a gear or a worm gear. Advantageously, the common drive structure is positioned centrally between the spindles of the assemblies. This makes it particularly easy for the shared drive structure to serve two or more than two assemblies.

[0090] If a common means is provided, identical assemblies according to the first aspect of the invention, each with its own drive structure, can advantageously be used. The connectable motor can then, for example, be coupled to the common means, which in turn is coupled to the individual drive structures of the assemblies.

[0091] The drive structures of the individual assemblies can each be coupled to each other in pairs, for example with coupling gears.

[0092] Advantageously, when coupling the drive structures with each other, only one of the drive structures is directly coupled to the motor (e.g. by means of a motor shaft).

[0093] For example, it is advantageously possible to position several assemblies along the third axis of rotation. Preferably, adjacent assemblies are then coupled to each other by at least one means. This allows the rotational movement of the drive structure of one assembly to be transferred to the drive structure of at least one adjacent assembly. Thus, only the drive structure of one of the assemblies needs to be directly coupled to the motor. For example, at least two of the assemblies (in particular, the drive structures of the at least two assemblies) are coupled to each other by means of a connecting shaft (preferably, each assembly is coupled to at least one other assembly by means of a connecting shaft). For example, such a connecting shaft can be designed as a driveshaft.

[0094] Advantageously, all components of the assembly are identical.

[0095] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the individual assemblies are arranged at least partially within a, preferably plate-shaped, support unit, in particular within a plate system, preferably an injection mold or a press, and / or that the assemblies are arranged, preferably symmetrically, around the third axis of rotation of the common drive structure.

[0096] For example, the support unit can have several plates (such as two or more than two) that can be connected to each other, for instance by screws. The support unit can then hold the assemblies, in particular enclosing them at least partially. The support unit can also hold the assemblies in position.

[0097] This means that, advantageously, a housing can be dispensed with due to the carrier unit.

[0098] Advantageously, such a carrier unit can also be provided in conjunction with a single assembly according to the first aspect of the invention. In that case, for example, a corresponding assembly is arranged at least partially within a carrier unit. This assembly can optionally be configured as described above.

[0099] The problem is solved by the invention according to a third aspect in that a linear actuator comprising a motor, in particular an electric motor and / or a servo motor, and at least one assembly according to the first aspect of the invention and / or at least one assembly group according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein preferably (i) the motor is coupled (a) to the drive structure of the assembly, (b) to the common drive structure and / or the common means of the assembly group and / or (c) to at least one drive structure of at least one assembly of the assembly group, in particular via a drive shaft of the motor, (ii) the motor provides the drive structure, the common drive structure and / or the common means, (iii) between on the one hand the drive shaft of the motor and on the other hand the drive structure,a coupling is provided for the common drive structure and / or the common means and / or (iv) the motor is spaced apart from the assembly and / or the assembly group for thermal insulation, is proposed.

[0100] All the advantages described with regard to the assembly according to the first aspect of the invention and with regard to the assembly group according to the second aspect of the invention also apply accordingly to the linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention, unless otherwise indicated in the context. Therefore, reference may be made here to the preceding statements.

[0101] For example, in the proposed linear actuator, the motor can be positioned away from the assembly or assembly in a particularly simple manner for the first time and without major design modifications, especially when a worm shaft is used as the drive structure. This significantly reduces the heat input to the motor, as the motor can be easily positioned away from heat sources, which are typically located in the area of ​​the spindle nut and / or the spindle.

[0102] For example, the motor can be positioned 300 mm or more than 300 mm away from the assembly or the assembly group.

[0103] Preferably, the coupling is provided “between” the drive shaft of the motor and the drive structure (or the other variants) if the coupling is provided in the force and / or torque transmission direction between the drive shaft of the motor and the drive structure (or the other variants).

[0104] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the linear actuator has at least one housing, wherein preferably the drive structure and / or the output structure of each assembly of the linear actuator (i) is attached to the housing and / or (ii) is at least partially arranged inside the housing.

[0105] Preferably, the housing is made of multiple parts. Alternatively, it is advantageous for the housing to be made of a single piece. This reduces the number of components.

[0106] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the spindle nut of each assembly is held axially in position relative to the housing by means of the threaded ring.

[0107] The position of the spindle nut can be a fixed position relative to the housing, especially along the first axis of rotation.

[0108] The problem is solved by the invention according to a fourth aspect in that a method for the linear displacement of at least one spindle by means of an assembly according to the first aspect of the invention, by means of an assembly according to the second aspect of the invention and / or by means of a linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention, comprising the method of: setting a spindle nut coupled to the spindle into a rotational movement, in particular stationary and / or extending about a first axis of rotation, by driving a driveable output structure operatively connected to and / or having on the spindle nut, in particular by means of a drive structure and / or a common drive structure, wherein preferably (i) the output structure into a rotational movement, in particular stationary and / or extending about a second axis of rotation,It is proposed that the spindle nut and the output structure be set in rotational motion and / or (ii) rotate at the same angular velocity and / or about a common axis of rotation.

[0109] All the advantages described with respect to the assembly according to the first aspect of the invention, with respect to the assembly group according to the second aspect of the invention, and with respect to the linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention also apply accordingly to the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, unless the context indicates otherwise. Therefore, reference may be made here to the preceding statements.

[0110] Advantageously, the rotational movement of the spindle nut results in the linear displacement of the respective spindle of the assembly.

[0111] All features described with respect to the assembly according to the first aspect of the invention and its components, with respect to the assembly group according to the second aspect of the invention and its components, and with respect to the linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention and its components, can also be provided in the assembly, assembly group, and / or linear actuator used in the method and their respective components, individually and in any combination, unless otherwise indicated by the context. In particular, the spindle nut, the output structure, and the drive structure can each be designed and / or arranged relative to each other as described above. Brief description of the drawings

[0112] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are explained with reference to schematic drawings.

[0113] This shows: Fig. 1a a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention in a first embodiment; Fig. 1b a schematic perspective sectional view of the linear actuator from Fig. 1a; Fig. 2a a schematic perspective sectional view of the linear actuator of the Fig. 1a. the assembly used according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 2b a schematic perspective view of the assembly made of Fig. 2a; Fig. 2c a schematic perspective view of the assembly made of Fig. 2a with parts that are partially separated from each other; Fig. 3a a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention in a second embodiment; Fig. 3b a detailed view of the drive structure and the output structure of the linear actuator from Fig. 3a; Fig. 4 a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention in a third embodiment; Fig. 5 a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator according to the third aspect of the invention in a fourth embodiment; and Fig. 6 a flowchart of a method according to the fourth aspect of the invention. Description of the embodiments

[0114] Fig. Figure 1a shows a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator 1 according to the third aspect of the invention in a first embodiment. Fig. Figure 1b shows a schematic perspective sectional view of linear actuator 1. Fig. 1a, where a median plane of linear actuator 1 is chosen as the cutting plane.

[0115] The linear actuator 1 has a motor 3 (approximately in the form of a servo motor) and an assembly 5.

[0116] Assembly 5 comprises a spindle 7 (for example, in the form of a ball screw or a roller screw). This spindle is coupled to a spindle nut 9 of assembly 5 in a manner known per se. When the spindle nut 9 is rotated about a first axis of rotation D1, the spindle 7 is displaced linearly along the first axis of rotation D1. Depending on the direction of rotation of the spindle nut 9, the spindle 7 moves in one direction or the other along the first axis of rotation D1.

[0117] The assembly 5 also includes a driven output structure 11. In this case, the output structure 11 is designed as a gear. The output structure 11 is supported by means of two bearing elements 13.

[0118] The spindle nut 9 is arranged concentrically to and along the first axis of rotation D1, completely within the output structure 11. The spindle nut 9 is connected to the output structure 11 in a rotationally secure manner by means of a key 15. Therefore, when the output structure 11 is set into a rotational movement about a second axis of rotation D2 (which is identical to the first axis of rotation D1), a rotational movement of the spindle nut 9 about the first axis of rotation D1 can be effected. Thus, the spindle nut 9 and the output structure 11 are operatively connected to each other.

[0119] Assembly 5 also features a drive structure 17 rotatable about a third axis of rotation D3. The drive structure 17 is also designed in the form of a gear. The teeth of the two gears of output structure 11 and drive structure 17 mesh with each other. This allows a rotational movement of the drive structure 17 about the third axis of rotation D3 to cause a rotational movement of the output structure 11 (and simultaneously a rotational movement of the spindle nut 9) about the first axis of rotation D1. Since the teeth of the two gears have a different number of teeth, a gear ratio is achieved that can be easily adjusted by selecting the ratio of the number of teeth. The first and third axes of rotation D1 and D3 are parallel and spaced apart from each other.

[0120] The drive structure 17 is coupled to a drive shaft 19 of the motor 3.

[0121] While the spindle nut 9 rotates about the first axis of rotation D3, it remains stationary in the axial direction (i.e., along the first axis of rotation D1). To ensure this, the spindle nut 9 is held in position relative to the output structure 11 and a housing 23 of the linear actuator 1 by means of a threaded ring 21 of the assembly 5. The housing is made of two parts, and the two parts are screwed together. This axial fixation of the spindle nut 9 is further secured by a shoulder 25 formed by the output structure 11 (in Fig. 1b ensures that the spindle nut 9 rests with its right side against the shoulder 25. Therefore, in its installed state, the spindle nut 9 cannot be displaced in an axial direction parallel to the first axis of rotation D1.

[0122] When the threaded ring 21 is loosened, the spindle 7, together with the spindle nut 9, can be removed from the linear actuator 1. This allows for easy and reliable lubrication of the spindle 7 and spindle nut 9.

[0123] The assembly 5 of the linear actuator 1 also has a spindle cover 27.

[0124] By means of the drive shaft 19 of the motor 3, the drive structure 17 is set into a rotational movement, which in turn causes a rotational movement of the driven output structure 11 and thus a rotational movement of the spindle nut 9. Depending on the direction of rotation of the drive shaft 19 (and thus depending on the direction of rotation of the drive structure 17, the output structure 11, and the spindle nut 9), the spindle 7 can be moved linearly between a retracted and an extended state. In this way, for example, in injection molds or machine tools, linear positioning of components can be carried out with particular reliability, even with large adjustment ranges.

[0125] In another embodiment, the gear of the output structure 11 and the spindle nut 9 could be formed in one piece. In yet another embodiment, the spindle nut 9 could have teeth directly on its outer surface, in which the teeth of the drive structure 17 engage.

[0126] Fig. Figure 2a shows a schematic perspective sectional view of assembly 5 of linear actuator 1. Fig. 1a.

[0127] In particular, in Fig. 2a shows, in addition to the spindle 7 and the spindle nut 9 (including the axis of rotation D1), the output structure 11, the key 15, the input structure 17 (including the axis of rotation D3), the threaded ring 21 and the shoulder 25. For clarity, in Fig. 2a, for example, the bearing element and the spindle cover are not shown.

[0128] Fig. 2b shows assembly 5 from Fig. 2a in a schematic perspective view. Since the spindle nut 9 is arranged completely within the output structure 11 along the axial direction (see Fig. 2a), is the spindle nut 9 from the in Fig. 2b selected perspective not visible.

[0129] Fig. Figure 2c shows another schematic perspective view of assembly 5. Fig. 2a. Here, the spindle 7, together with the spindle nut 9 and threaded ring 21, is shown detached from the output structure 11. By loosening the threaded ring 21 from the output structure 11, the spindle nut 9, together with the spindle 7, can be removed from the output structure 11. This illustrates the particularly simple maintenance of the assembly 5 and thus also of a linear actuator (such as the linear actuator 1) equipped with such an assembly 5.

[0130] The assembly 5 described in relation to the linear actuator 1 is an assembly according to the first aspect of the invention. The assembly 5 is also particularly advantageously designed on its own with the described features.

[0131] Fig. Figure 3a shows a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator 1 according to the third aspect of the invention in a second embodiment.

[0132] The linear actuator 1 in the second embodiment is similar to the one described in relation to the Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b described linear actuator of the first embodiment. Therefore, features that are the same as those described in relation to the Fig. 1a and Fig. The linear actuator described in 1b is provided with the same reference numerals, and only the differences between the two embodiments are described below.

[0133] Fig. Figure 3b shows a detailed view of the interacting output structure 11 and drive structure 17 of the linear actuator 1. Fig. 3a. The drive structure 17 is designed as a worm shaft. The output structure 11 is designed in multiple parts and, in addition to a worm gear 28a, also has a retaining element 28b in the form of a receiving flange. The worm gear 28a is attached to the retaining element 28b, in particular by means of a threaded ring 28c. Furthermore, the worm gear 28a is connected to the retaining element 28b in a rotationally secure manner. A helical winding 28d of the worm shaft is also included. Fig. 3b is recognizable. A toothing of the worm wheel 28a and the winding 28d of the worm shaft mesh together.

[0134] The axial direction of extension of the worm shaft 17 is perpendicular to the axial direction of extension of the spindle 7. Accordingly, the axes of rotation D1 and D3 are also perpendicular to each other. This design allows the linear actuator 1 to be very compact. The worm shaft 17 is connected to the motor 3 (in particular to its [unclear]) via a connecting shaft 28e. Fig. 3a (not visible motor shaft) coupled.

[0135] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator 1 according to the third aspect of the invention in a third embodiment.

[0136] The linear actuator 1 in the third embodiment is similar to those described in relation to the Fig. Linear actuators of the first and second embodiments described in Figures 1a-1b and 3 are therefore features that are identical to those described in relation to the Fig. Linear actuators described in 1a-1b and 3 are provided with the same reference numerals, and only the differences between the embodiments are described below.

[0137] The in Fig. The linear actuator 1 shown in Figure 4 has a modular assembly 29 according to the second aspect of the invention. That is, it comprises two assemblies 5 which share a common drive structure 31 (here in the form of a gear). In other words, the drive structures of the individual assemblies 5 are realized by the common drive structure 31. The common drive structure 31 is arranged centrally between the two spindles 7 of the individual assemblies 5. Like the drive structure 17 before it, the common drive structure 31 is also coupled to the motor shaft 19 of the motor 3.

[0138] In Fig. 4 only the features of the left assembly 5 are marked with reference numerals, since the right assembly 5 is merely a shifted, otherwise identical copy of the left assembly 5.

[0139] The individual assemblies 5 of the assembly 29 are arranged within a plate-shaped support unit 33, which consists of two connectable plate-shaped parts 35. By separating the two plate parts 35, the assemblies 5 can be easily removed, and conversely, by connecting (for example, by screwing) the two plate parts 35, the assemblies 5 can be securely held in position relative to each other and to the motor 3. Preferably, the motor 3 is attached to the support unit 33.

[0140] With the linear actuator in the third embodiment, two spindles can be moved linearly and synchronously using a single motor.

[0141] In other embodiments, further assemblies, such as a total of three, four, five, six or more than six, could also be provided around the axis of rotation D3, all of which share the common drive structure 31.

[0142] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a linear actuator 1 according to the third aspect of the invention in a fourth embodiment.

[0143] The linear actuator 1 in the fourth embodiment is similar to the one described in relation to the Fig. 3a described linear actuator of the second embodiment. Therefore, features that are identical to those described in relation to the Fig. The linear actuator described in section 3a is provided with the same reference numerals, and only the differences between the embodiments are described below.

[0144] The in Fig. The linear actuator 1 of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 5 has a modular assembly 37 according to the second aspect of the invention. That is, two modular assemblies 5 are provided. The drive structures of the individual modular assemblies 5 (in this case, each is a worm shaft) are coupled to each other. This allows, for example, the displacement of the drive structure of the Fig. 5 assembly 5 located closer to the motor 3 into a rotational movement (by means of the connecting shaft 28e) the drive structure of the in Fig. The assembly 5, located further away from the motor 3, can also be set into a rotational movement. For this purpose, the drive structure of the rear assembly 5 is coupled via the connecting shaft 28e (and this in turn to the motor shaft of the motor 3). The rotational movement of this drive structure (i.e., the worm shaft) is transmitted to the drive structure (also a worm shaft) of the assembly 5, located further away from the motor 3, by means of a further connecting shaft 39, which is designed in particular as a cardan shaft.

[0145] In other words, with just a single motor (the motor 3), the drive structures of both assemblies 5 can be set into a rotational movement due to the coupling (the rotation takes place around the axis of rotation D3) and thereby both spindles 7 can be moved simultaneously.

[0146] Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart of a process 100 according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0147] Method 100 allows a spindle to be moved linearly. Method 100 can be used, for example, by means of the [method / component] with respect to the Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b described linear actuator 1 of the first embodiment (but also of any other of the described embodiments) can be carried out.

[0148] In 101, a driveable output structure (such as a gear like that of output structure 11) is driven by setting the output structure into a rotational motion. For example, the output structure can be driven by a drive structure (such as another gear like that of drive structure 17).

[0149] In 103, the rotational movement of the output structure sets a spindle nut, which is coupled to the spindle to be moved, into a rotational movement.

[0150] In 105, the spindle is linearly displaced as a result of the rotational movement of the spindle nut.

[0151] The features disclosed in the preceding description, in the drawings and in the claims can be essential to the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. Reference symbol list 1 linear actuator 3 Engine 5 assembly 7 spindles 9 Spindle nut 11 Drive structure 13 Bearing element 15 Keyway 17 Drive structure 19 Drive shaft 21 threaded ring 23 cases 25 Shoulder 27 Spindle cover 28a Worm wheel 28b Holding devices 28c threaded ring 28d turn 28e Connecting shaft 29 modular assembly 31 Common drive structure 33 Carrier unit 35 plate part 37 modular assembly 39 Connecting shaft D1, D2, D3 axis of rotation 100 Flowchart 101 Driving a driveable output structure 103 Setting a spindle nut coupled to the output structure into a rotational movement 105 Linear displacement of a spindle coupled to the spindle nut

Claims

[1] Assembly (5) for a linear actuator (1), the assembly (5) comprising a spindle and a spindle nut (9) coupled to the spindle (7), wherein the spindle nut (9) has a driveable output structure (11) and / or is operatively connected to a driveable output structure (11) of the assembly (5), wherein a rotational movement of the spindle nut (9) about a first axis of rotation (D1) can be effected by a rotational movement of the output structure about a second axis of rotation (D2) for the linear displacement of the spindle (7), wherein the spindle nut (9) is held axially in position by means of a threaded ring (21). [2] Assembly (5) according to claim 1, wherein the output structure (11) comprises a ring gear, a gear and / or a worm gear (28a), wherein preferably (a) the output structure (11) further comprises at least one retaining means (28b), such as a receiving flange, arranged in particular concentrically to the worm gear (28a) and / or formed integrally with the worm gear (28a), to which retaining means (28b) the worm gear (28a) is fastened, in particular by means of at least one threaded ring (28c), and / or with which retaining means (28b) the worm gear (28a) is coupled in a rotationally secure manner, and / or (b) the worm gear (28a) has helical teeth, and / or the spindle nut is in operative connection with this output structure (11), and / or wherein at least one bearing element (13) is provided for supporting the output structure (11). [3] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spindle nut (9), in particular along the first axis of rotation (D1), is received and / or arranged at least sectionally and / or at least partially, preferably completely, within the output structure (11). [4] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spindle nut (9) is arranged concentrically to the output structure (11) and / or the spindle nut (9) is formed integrally with the output structure (11). [5] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the output structure (11) is a toothing, in particular at least partially and / or at least partially, gearing, in particular helical gearing, of the spindle nut (9), wherein the gearing preferably extends along a circumferential direction of the spindle nut (9) perpendicular to the first axis of rotation (D1) and / or on an outer surface of the spindle nut (9). [6] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the assembly (5) comprises a drive structure (17), in particular rotatable about a third axis of rotation (D3), which interacts with the output structure (11), in particular interacting in such a way that a rotational movement of the drive structure (17) about the third axis of rotation (D3) can effect the rotational movement of the output structure (11) about the second axis of rotation (D2) and / or the rotational movement of the spindle nut (9) about the first axis of rotation (D1). [7] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the drive structure (17) comprises a worm shaft, wherein preferably the axial extension direction of the worm shaft is perpendicular to the axial extension direction of the spindle (7), a gear and / or a ring gear and / or is coupled or can be coupled to a motor (3), in particular an electric motor and / or a servo motor. [8] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a transmission is provided between the output structure (11) and the drive structure (17). [9] Assembly (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein (i) the rotational movement of the spindle nut (9) about the first axis of rotation is a rotational movement during which the spindle nut (9) is stationary along the first axis of rotation (D1), (ii) the rotational movement of the output structure about the second axis of rotation (D2) is a rotational movement during which the output structure is stationary along the second axis of rotation (D2), and / or (iii) the rotational movement of the drive structure (17) about the third axis of rotation (D3) is a rotational movement during which the drive structure (17) is stationary along the third axis of rotation (D3). [10] Assembly (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spindle nut (9) is held axially in position relative to the driven output structure (11) by means of the threaded ring (21), and / or wherein the threaded ring (21) restricts the axial displacement of the spindle nut (9), in particular along at least one axial direction, and / or the threaded ring (21) is screwed or screwable into the driven output structure (11). [11] Assembly of components (29, 37) comprising at least two assemblies (5), each of the assemblies (5) being configured according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 10, wherein preferably (i) the drive structures (17) of the individual assemblies (5) are realized by a common drive structure (31), preferably rotatable about the third axis of rotation (D3), (ii) the drive structures of the individual assemblies (5) are capable of being set into rotational motion via a common means coupled to the individual drive structures (17), and / or (iii) the drive structures (17) of the individual assemblies (5) are coupled to each other, in particular each drive structure (17) of an assembly (5) is coupled to a further drive structure (17) of at least another assembly (5).and wherein preferably by setting at least one of the drive structures (17) into a rotational movement the other drive structures (17) can also be set into a rotational movement. [12] Assembly of components (29, 37) according to claim 11, wherein the individual assemblies (5) are arranged at least partially within a, preferably plate-shaped, support unit (33), in particular within a plate system, preferably an injection mold or a press, and / or the assemblies are arranged, preferably symmetrically, around the third axis of rotation (D3) of the common drive structure (17). [13] Linear actuator (1) comprising a motor (3), in particular an electric motor and / or a servo motor, and at least one assembly (5) according to one of claims 1 to 10 and / or at least one assembly group (29, 37) according to one of claims 11 to 12, wherein preferably (i) the motor (3) is coupled (a) to the drive structure (17) of the assembly (5), (b) to the common drive structure (31) and / or the common means of the assembly (29, 37) and / or (c) to at least one drive structure (17) of at least one assembly (5) of the assembly (29, 37), in particular via a drive shaft (19) of the motor (3), (ii) the motor (3) provides the drive structure (17), the common drive structure (31) and / or the common means, (iii) a coupling is provided between, on the one hand, the drive shaft (19) of the motor (3) and, on the other hand, the drive structure (17), the common drive structure and / or the common means, (iv) the motor (3) is spaced apart from the assembly (5) and / or the assembly group (29, 37) for thermal insulation, (v) the linear actuator (1) comprises at least one housing (23), wherein preferably the drive structure (17) and / or the output structure (11) of each assembly (5) of the linear actuator (1) (a) is or are attached to the housing (23) and / or (b) is or are arranged at least partially inside the housing (23), and / or (vi) the spindle nut (9) of each assembly (5) is held axially in position relative to the housing (23) by means of the threaded ring (21). [14] Method for linearly displacing at least one spindle (7) by means of an assembly (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, by means of an assembly (29, 37) according to any one of claims 11 to 12 and / or by means of a linear actuator (1) according to claim 13, comprising: setting a spindle nut (9) coupled to the spindle (7) into a rotational movement, in particular stationary and / or extending about a first axis of rotation (D1), by driving a driveable output structure (11) operatively connected to and / or having on the spindle nut (9), in particular by means of a drive structure (17) and / or a common drive structure, wherein preferably (i) the output structure (11) into a rotational movement, in particular stationary and / or extending about a second axis of rotation (D2),rotational movement is set and / or (ii) the spindle nut (9) and the output structure (11) are rotated with the same angular velocity and / or about a common axis of rotation.

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