Actuating device for actuating a shift element of a transmission for a motor vehicle drive train

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuating device (10) for actuating a shifting element (12) of a transmission for a drive train of a motor vehicle, comprising an actuating piston (14) for actuating the shifting element (12), comprising a first actuating chamber (16) into which a fluid can be introduced to actuate the shifting element (12), whereby the actuating piston (14) can be actuated with the fluid and can thereby be moved in a first direction (20), comprising a second actuating chamber (22) into which the fluid can be introduced to actuate the shifting element (12), whereby the actuating piston (14) can be actuated with the fluid and can thereby be moved in a second direction (24) opposite the first direction (20), comprising a first discharge channel (26) via which the fluid can be discharged from the first actuating chamber (16), and comprising a second discharge channel (30) via which the fluid can be discharged from the second actuating chamber (22) is deductible,wherein a diaphragm valve (32, 34) is arranged in at least one of the discharge channels (26, 30).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an actuating device for actuating a shift element of a transmission for a drive train of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

[0002] Motor vehicles with drive trains are well known from the general state of the art and in particular from series vehicle construction, wherein the respective motor vehicle is drivable by means of the respective drive train. The respective drive train has, for example, a transmission which has at least one or more shifting elements. The shifting element is used, for example, to fix a transmission element, which is fundamentally rotatable about an axis of rotation relative to a housing, to the housing in a rotationally fixed manner. In order to either fix the transmission element to the housing in a rotationally fixed manner by means of the shifting element or to decouple it from the housing so that the transmission element can be rotated relative to the housing, an actuating device is usually used by means of which the shifting element can be switched, i.e. actuated.

[0003] Furthermore, DE 10 2013 225 337 A1 discloses a hydraulic system. Furthermore, DE 10 2020 004 981 B3 discloses an automatic transmission for a motor vehicle.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to further develop an actuating device of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that a particularly advantageous actuation of the switching element can be realized.

[0005] This object is achieved by an actuating device having the features of patent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the remaining claims.

[0006] The invention relates to an actuating device for actuating a shifting element of a transmission for a drive train, also referred to as a motor vehicle drive train, of a motor vehicle, also simply referred to as a vehicle. This means that the motor vehicle, designed for example as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car, in its fully manufactured state has the drive train and thus the transmission and the actuating device and the shifting element. In particular, the motor vehicle can be driven by means of the drive train. For example, the shifting element is arranged in a transmission region of the transmission and thus of the drive train. For example, the transmission has a first transmission element and a second transmission element.For example, by means of the switching element, the first transmission element can be selectively connected to the second transmission element in a rotationally fixed manner or decoupled from the second transmission element, such that the transmission elements can rotate relative to one another. In particular, for example, the switching element can be switched between a coupled state and an uncoupled state. In the coupled state, for example, the first transmission element is connected to the second transmission element in a rotationally fixed manner, in particular by means of the switching element, whereby relative rotations between the transmission elements about an axis of rotation are prevented. In the uncoupled state, the first transmission element can be rotated about the axis of rotation relative to the second transmission element. In other words, for example, in the uncoupled state the switching element releases the transmission elements for relative rotation between the transmission elements about the axis of rotation.For example, the first transmission element is a gear.

[0007] The actuating device has an actuating piston for actuating, i.e. switching, the switching element. The actuating device also has a first actuating chamber, which is also referred to as a first pressure chamber and is arranged, for example, in a housing of the actuating device, in particular of the transmission. Since the housing of the actuating device is preferably a housing of the transmission, the housing is, for example, a transmission housing. It is conceivable that the second transmission element is rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to the housing, so that in the coupled state, the first transmission element and the second transmission element are rotatable together or simultaneously about the axis of rotation relative to the housing. In the uncoupled state, for example, the first transmission element and the second transmission element are rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to the housing and in particular relative to one another.Furthermore, it is conceivable for the second transmission element to be the housing, so that, for example, in the coupled state, the first transmission element is fixed to the housing in a rotationally fixed manner, in particular by means of the switching element, and is therefore connected to the housing in a rotationally fixed manner. A fluid, also referred to as actuating fluid, can be introduced into the actuating chamber. The actuating fluid can be a component of the actuating device. The actuating fluid is very preferably a liquid, in other words a hydraulic fluid. By introducing the fluid into the first actuating chamber, the actuating piston can be acted upon by the fluid, in particular directly, and can thus be moved in a first direction, in particular relative to the housing and / or translationally. The actuating device also has a second actuating chamber, which is also referred to as the second pressure chamber.The fluid (actuating fluid) can be introduced into the first actuating chamber to actuate the switching element, whereby the actuating piston can be acted upon, in particular directly, by the fluid. In particular, by introducing the fluid into the first actuating chamber, a first side of the actuating piston can be acted upon, in particular directly, by the fluid, whereby the piston can be moved, in particular relative to the housing, in the first direction. To actuate the switching element, the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber, whereby the actuating piston can be acted upon, in particular directly, by the fluid and can thus be moved, in particular relative to the housing, in a second direction opposite to the first direction, in particular translationally.For example, by introducing the fluid into the second actuating chamber, a second side of the actuating piston can be actuated with the fluid, in particular directly, whereby the actuating piston can be moved in the second direction to actuate the switching element. In particular, the second side faces away from the first side, in particular in the first direction. The respective direction runs, for example, in the axial direction of the actuating device, in particular of the transmission. In particular, it is conceivable for the respective direction to run parallel to the axis of rotation or coincide with the axis of rotation. Thus, for example, the actuating piston, also simply referred to as the piston, can be moved, in particular displaced, in the axial direction of the transmission relative to the housing, in particular translationally. For example, the first actuating chamber is delimited, in particular in the first direction and / or directly, by the piston, in particular by the first side.For example, the second actuating space is delimited, in particular in the second direction and / or directly, by the actuating piston, in particular by the second side.

[0008] The actuating device has a first discharge channel, which for example runs at least partially within the housing. The fluid can be discharged from the first actuating chamber via the first discharge channel. The actuating device also has a second discharge channel, which can run at least partially within the housing. The fluid can be discharged from the second actuating chamber via the second discharge channel. In particular, the discharge channels are at least partially fluidically separated from one another. If, for example, the piston is moved in the first direction, in particular relative to the housing, to switch the switching element, this results in an increase in the volume of the first actuating chamber and a reduction in the volume of the second actuating chamber, in particular such that the second actuating chamber or its volume is reduced to the same extent as the first actuating chamber or its volume is increased.If, for example, the actuating piston is moved in the second direction for switching, i.e. for actuating the switching element, the volume of the second actuating chamber and the volume of the first actuating chamber increase, in particular in such a way that the first actuating chamber or its volume is reduced to the same extent as the second actuating chamber or its volume is increased. Thus, for example, when the piston is moved in the first direction, at least part of the fluid is discharged from the second actuating chamber via the second discharge channel. Furthermore, for example, when the piston is moved in the second direction, at least part of the fluid is discharged from the first actuating chamber via the first discharge channel, i.e. led out. The respective direction is also referred to as the respective actuating direction.The fluid flowing out of the respective actuation chamber and flowing through the respective discharge channel flows in a respective flow direction through the respective discharge channel. Since the fluid can be discharged from the first actuation chamber via the first discharge channel, the first discharge channel is assigned to the first actuation chamber and vice versa. And since, for example, the fluid can be discharged from the second actuation chamber via the second discharge channel, the second discharge channel is assigned to the second actuation chamber and vice versa.

[0009] In order to be able to actuate and thus switch the switching element in a particularly advantageous manner, the invention provides for a diaphragm valve to be arranged in at least one of the discharge channels. The diaphragm valve is also referred to as the first diaphragm valve. When reference is made above and below to the diaphragm valve, this refers to the first diaphragm valve unless otherwise stated. The diaphragm valve blocks the at least one discharge channel at low pressures and thus, for example, up to the low release pressure of the fluid in the at least one discharge channel, so that the fluid is held in the at least one discharge channel by means of the diaphragm valve until a pressure of the fluid in the at least one discharge channel reaches the release pressure.Then and only when the fluid in the at least one discharge channel reaches the release pressure, the diaphragm valve releases the at least one discharge channel, so that only then can the fluid flow through the at least one discharge channel in the corresponding flow direction and thus flow out of the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel.

[0010] In order to discharge the fluid from the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel, for example, via the at least one discharge channel, the at least one discharge channel is at least temporarily fluidically connectable or connected to a supply line which is arranged, for example, downstream of the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel and upstream of the at least one discharge channel in the flow direction of the fluid flowing out of the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel and flowing through the at least one discharge channel.The supply line is used, for example, to introduce the fluid via the supply line into the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel in order to thereby bring about a corresponding movement of the piston in the first direction or in the second direction, wherein, in particular when the fluid is introduced via the supply line into the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel, the supply line and the actuating space associated with the at least one discharge channel are fluidically separated from the at least one discharge channel.

[0011] In particular, the invention can prevent excessive emptying of the actuating chamber and / or the supply line associated with the at least one discharge channel. In other words, the diaphragm valve, for example, prevents an excessive amount of fluid from flowing out of the actuating chamber and / or the supply line associated with the at least one discharge channel, in particular until the fluid upstream of the diaphragm valve in the at least one discharge channel and, if applicable,the fluid arranged in the supply line reaches the release pressure and thus, for example, in particular until the actuating piston is moved by the fluid being applied to the actuating piston in such a way that the volume of the actuating chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel is reduced, thus until the piston is moved in such a way that the piston expels the fluid from the actuating chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel, which in particular leads to the pressure of the fluid in the at least one discharge channel reaching or exceeding the release pressure. In other words, the diaphragm valve can be used to ensure that a sufficiently large quantity of the fluid remains in the actuating chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel and / or in the supply line.This allows for reliable switching, in particular switching on, of the switching element, since an excessively large quantity of fluid does not first have to be pumped into the actuation chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel and / or the supply line in order to actuate the switching element. This way, excessive switching delays and a loss of comfort can be avoided. At the same time, the diaphragm valve allows the fluid to flow through the at least one discharge channel and thus the supply line in a large quantity, i.e. with a large volume and / or mass flow, particularly when the pressure of the fluid in the at least one discharge channel reaches or exceeds the release pressure, wherein the diaphragm valve offers only very little resistance to the fluid flowing through the at least one discharge channel.In other words, the diaphragm valve allows a large amount, i.e. a large volume and / or mass flow of the fluid to pass through the at least one discharge channel even at low pressures of the fluid, wherein the diaphragm valve represents only a very low flow resistance for the fluid flowing through the at least one discharge channel.

[0012] For example, the at least one discharge channel is the first discharge channel. For example, the first actuating chamber is a so-called engagement actuating chamber. This means in particular that, for example, by introducing the fluid into the first actuating chamber, the shifting element is or is to be switched into the coupled state of the shifting element by means of the actuating piston. By switching the shifting element into the coupled state, a first gear of the transmission can be or is engaged, for example. Thus, for example, the second actuating chamber is a so-called disengagement actuating chamber. This means in particular that, by introducing the fluid into the second actuating chamber by means of the actuating piston, the shifting element is or is to be switched into the uncoupled state. By switching the shifting element into the uncoupled state, the first gear can be or is disengaged, for example.In particular, the invention makes it possible to always reliably engage first gear of the transmission, especially without rejection due to a tooth-on-tooth position. Switching the shifting element into the coupled state of the shifting element is also referred to, for example, as engaging the shifting element, which may be accompanied by engaging first gear. Switching the shifting element into the uncoupled state is also referred to, for example, as disengaging the shifting element, which may be accompanied by disengaging first gear.

[0013] In order to be able to switch the switching element particularly advantageously and, for example, also to switch it safely into the decoupling state, one embodiment of the invention provides for a second diaphragm valve to be arranged in the second discharge channel. The previous and following explanations regarding the at least one discharge channel and the actuating chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel can easily be transferred to the second discharge channel and the second actuating chamber assigned to the second discharge channel, and vice versa. The second diaphragm valve prevents excessive emptying of the second actuating chamber and / or a second supply line via which the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber and which is or can be fluidically connected to the second discharge channel at least temporarily for the purpose of discharging the fluid from the second actuating chamber.However, the second diaphragm valve allows the fluid to pass through the second diaphragm valve, for example, when a pressure of the fluid arranged upstream of the second diaphragm valve in the second discharge channel reaches or exceeds a second release pressure of the second diaphragm valve, specifically with an advantageously high volume and / or mass flow, wherein the second diaphragm valve represents only a very low flow resistance for the fluid flowing through the second discharge channel. The second release pressure is also advantageously low, so that the fluid can be discharged safely and quickly from the second actuating chamber via the second discharge channel and the second diaphragm valve.

[0014] The previous and following statements regarding the first diaphragm valve and the first discharge channel are readily applicable to the second diaphragm valve and the second discharge channel, and vice versa. Therefore, when reference is made to the diaphragm valve below, this refers to the first diaphragm valve, while the previous and following statements regarding the diaphragm valve are readily applicable to the second diaphragm valve, and vice versa.The diaphragm valve is thus designed such that the diaphragm valve remains sealed up to a very slight overpressure, such as the release pressure, and thus fluidically blocks the at least one discharge channel, so that, for example, after switching of the switching element caused by the actuating piston and during a subsequent period during which movement of the actuating piston ceases, the actuating chamber assigned to the respective discharge channel, preferably both the first actuating chamber and the second actuating chamber, and / or the respective supply line remains filled with an advantageously large amount of fluid, thus an advantageously large amount of fluid is accommodated in the actuating chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel, in particular both actuating chambers, and / or in the respective supply line. This can ensure reliable and rapid switching of the switching element.

[0015] Preferably, the actuating device is designed as an electro-hydraulic switching device. Most preferably, the switching element is a positive-locking switching element, by means of which, for example, in the coupled state of the switching element, the first transmission element is connected in a form-fitting, rotationally fixed manner to the second transmission element. Most particularly, the positive-locking switching element is a switching claw.

[0016] In order to be able to switch the switching element particularly advantageously, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the actuating device has a valve device which has a first connection, a second connection and a valve element. The first discharge channel is connected to the first connection, such that the first discharge channel is fluidically connected to the first connection. The second discharge channel is connected to the second connection, such that the second discharge channel is fluidically connected to the second connection. The valve device has, for example, a valve housing which can have the connections. The valve element is adjustable, i.e. movable, between a first position and a second position, in particular relative to the valve housing.In the flow direction of the fluid flowing through the respective discharge channel and thereby flowing away from the respective actuating chamber assigned to the respective discharge channel and thus flowing out of the respective discharge channel, for example, the first connection is arranged downstream of the first actuating chamber and upstream of the first discharge channel, which is arranged downstream of the first connection and downstream of the first actuating chamber, and for example, the second connection is arranged downstream of the second actuating chamber and upstream of the second discharge channel, which is arranged downstream of the second connection and downstream of the second actuating chamber.

[0017] In particular, the valve element is a slide, also referred to as a switching slide, which is, for example, translationally movable, and thus displaceable, particularly relative to the housing, between the first position and the second position.

[0018] In the first position, the fluid can be introduced into the first actuating chamber via the valve device. The actuating device has, for example, a pump for conveying the fluid. In particular, the pump is designed as an electric pump, and therefore as an electrically operated pump. Thus, for example, in the first position, the first actuating chamber is fluidically connected to the pump, in particular to a pressure side of the pump, via the valve device, so that in the first position the pump can convey the fluid from the pressure side via the valve device into the first actuating chamber, whereby the fluid can be introduced or is introduced into the first actuating chamber.In the first position, the second actuating chamber is fluidically connected to the second connection and, via the second position, fluidically connected to the second discharge channel, such that in the first position the fluid can be discharged from the second actuating chamber via the second connection into the second discharge channel and thus via the second connection and the second discharge channel out of the second actuating chamber, and thus can be discharged. In the first position, the second actuating chamber is fluidically separated from the first connection and thus from the first discharge channel, and in the first position the first actuating chamber is fluidically separated from the connections and thus from the discharge channels. This enables reliable switching of the switching element to be achieved.

[0019] In the second position, the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber via the valve device. For example, in the second position, the second actuating chamber is fluidically connected to the pump, in particular to the pressure side of the pump, via the valve device, so that in the second position, the pump can deliver fluid via the pressure side of the pump and via the valve device into the second actuating chamber, into which the fluid can thus be introduced or is introduced.In the second position, the first actuating chamber is fluidically connected to the first connection and, via the first connection, fluidically connected to the first discharge channel, such that in the second position the fluid can be introduced from the first actuating chamber to the first connection and, via the first connection, into the first discharge channel, such that in the second position the fluid can be led out, i.e. discharged, from the first actuating chamber via the first connection and the first discharge channel. In the second position, the first actuating chamber is fluidically separated from the second connection and, as a result, fluidically separated from the second discharge channel, and in the second position the second actuating chamber is fluidically separated from the connections and, as a result, from the discharge channels.Furthermore, it is preferably provided that in the first position, the second actuating chamber is fluidically separated from the pump, i.e., fluidically separated from the pressure side of the pump, and, for example, in the second position, the first actuating chamber is fluidically separated from the pump, i.e., fluidically separated from the pressure side of the pump. This ensures reliable switching of the switching element.

[0020] It has proven particularly advantageous if the valve device has a third connection, also referred to as a supply connection. In the first position, the supply connection is fluidically connected to the first actuating chamber and fluidically separated from the second actuating chamber, whereby in the first position the fluid can be introduced into the first actuating chamber via the supply connection. In the second position, the supply connection is fluidically connected to the second actuating chamber and fluidically separated from the first actuating chamber, whereby in the second position the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber via the supply connection.Preferably, the supply connection is fluidically connected to the pump, in particular to the pressure side of the pump, both in the first position and in the second position, so that in the first position the pump can pump the fluid to the supply connection via its pressure side and into the first actuating chamber via the supply connection. Furthermore, in the second position the pump can pump the fluid to the supply connection via the pressure side and into the second actuating chamber via the supply connection. This allows for rapid and reliable switching of the switching element.

[0021] In order to advantageously close the discharge channel on the one hand and to release the fluid at very low pressures, in particular overpressures, on the other hand, it is provided in a further embodiment of the invention that the diaphragm valve has a diaphragm made of rubber, wherein the diaphragm is also referred to as a rubber diaphragm.

[0022] It has proven particularly advantageous if the diaphragm is circular and has at least one or exactly one slot, in particular a Phillips slot. This allows the diaphragm to advantageously fluidically block the at least one discharge channel, particularly up to the release pressure, and to open the at least one discharge channel starting at the low release pressure, at which point the fluid can flow through the at least one discharge channel in large quantities and with little resistance. This ensures reliable switching of the switching element.

[0023] For example, a tank, also referred to as a reservoir, is provided in which the fluid can be or is at least temporarily held. For example, the tank is connected to the first port and the second port, so that, for example, in the respective position, the fluid can be guided from the respective actuating chamber into the tank via the first port or second port. In particular, the first port is fluidly connected to the tank via the first discharge channel, and the second port is fluidly connected to the tank via the second discharge channel.

[0024] In order to fluidically block the at least one discharge channel, in particular up to the release pressure, and to allow an advantageously large volume and / or mass flow of the fluid to pass from the release pressure, it is provided in a further embodiment of the invention that the membrane is flat.

[0025] A further embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the membrane has a curvature which is curved opposite to the flow direction, into which the at least one discharge channel can be flowed through by the fluid flowing out of the actuating chamber belonging to the at least one discharge channel, and thus assigned to the at least one discharge channel. As a result, the at least one discharge channel can be advantageously blocked by means of the diaphragm valve, in particular up to the release pressure, so that the actuating chamber assigned to the at least one discharge channel remains filled with an advantageously large quantity of the fluid. At the same time, the membrane makes it possible to release the at least one discharge channel even at the low release pressure, thus allowing an advantageously large quantity of the fluid to pass through with only low flow resistance.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that a ring, which is in particular made of a plastic and thus designed, for example, as a plastic ring, is vulcanized into the diaphragm, which ring is designed as an outer ring and which is clipped or can be clipped into a corresponding groove in a valve housing of the diaphragm valve. Very particularly, the valve housing of the diaphragm valve is the valve housing of the valve device or a housing which is designed separately from the valve housing of the valve device and is provided additionally, which is connected, for example, to the valve housing of the valve device. This ensures simple and secure assembly and positioning of the diaphragm valve, so that the at least one discharge channel can be advantageously blocked and advantageously opened, in particular as of the release pressure.

[0027] Finally, it has proven particularly advantageous for implementing a particularly advantageous switching of the switching element if the diaphragm has a particularly thickened outer ring, wherein adjacent to the outer ring there is a retaining ring arranged outside the diaphragm and formed separately from the diaphragm, which retaining ring is clipped or can be clipped into a corresponding groove of a valve housing of the diaphragm valve. This allows for secure and simple assembly and positioning of the diaphragm valve, so that the at least one discharge channel can be selectively fluidically blocked or released, in particular from the release pressure.

[0028] For example, the actuating device is designed as an electro-hydraulic switching device. Since the piston is movable in the first direction and the second direction, the piston is preferably designed as a double-acting piston, which is also referred to as a dual-acting piston.

[0029] The valve device is preferably an electromagnetically actuated valve device, wherein in particular the valve element, which is designed, for example, as a switching slide, is an electrically actuated switching slide.

[0030] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments and from the drawings. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures, can be used not only in the respective combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0031] The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an actuating device for actuating a shift element of a transmission; Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a diaphragm of a diaphragm valve of the actuating device; Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the membrane; Fig. 4 shows a further schematic representation of the actuating device; Fig. 5 shows a partial schematic sectional view of a first embodiment of the actuating device; Fig. 6 shows a partial schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of the actuating device; Fig. 7 shows a partial schematic sectional view of a third embodiment of the actuating device; and Fig. 8 shows a partial schematic sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the actuating device.

[0032] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0033] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an actuating device 10 for actuating a Fig. 4 particularly schematically illustrated shift element 12 of a transmission for a drive train of a motor vehicle. This means that the motor vehicle, also simply referred to as a vehicle and preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car, in its fully manufactured state has the drive train also referred to as a motor vehicle drive train and can be driven by means of the drive train. The drive train comprises the aforementioned transmission, via which, for example, the motor vehicle can be driven, in particular by a drive motor of the drive train. The transmission has the actuating device 10, by means of which the aforementioned shift element 12 of the transmission is actuated, i.e., can be shifted. The transmission has, for example, a first transmission element (not visible in the figures), which can be designed, for example, as a gearwheel or can comprise a gearwheel.Furthermore, the transmission can have a second transmission element, wherein the transmission elements can be connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner by means of the switching element 12. This means, in particular, that the switching element 12 can be switched between a coupled state and a decoupling state. In the coupled state, the transmission elements are connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner by means of the switching element 12, in particular in a form-fitting manner. Thus, the switching element 12 is designed as a form-fitting switching element, in particular as a switching claw. The switching claw is also simply referred to as a claw. In the decoupling state, the transmission elements can be rotated relative to one another, in particular about a rotational axis.The second transmission element is, for example, a transmission housing, also simply referred to as a housing, of the transmission. For example, in the coupled state, the first transmission element is fixed to the transmission housing in a rotationally fixed manner by means of the switching element 12, thereby preventing rotation of the first transmission element about the rotational axis relative to the transmission housing. In the uncoupled state, the first transmission element is rotatable about the rotational axis relative to the transmission housing. Thus, the switching element 12 is preferably a brake switching element, in particular a brake claw.

[0034] The actuating device 10 has an actuating piston 14, also simply referred to as a piston, for actuating the switching element 12. The actuating device 10 has a first actuating chamber 16, which is partially delimited, in particular directly, by the piston and into which a fluid, preferably in the form of a liquid, in particular oil, can be introduced to actuate the switching element 12. By introducing the fluid into the actuating chamber 16, the actuating piston 14 can be subjected to the fluid, in particular directly, and can thereby be moved, in particular translationally, relative to a housing 18 of the actuating device 10 in a first direction illustrated by an arrow 20. The actuating device 10 has a second actuating chamber 22, which is partially and directly delimited by the actuating piston 14.To actuate the switching element 12, the fluid can be introduced into the second actuation chamber 22, whereby the actuation piston 14 can be acted upon, in particular directly, with the fluid and can thus be moved, in particular translationally, relative to the housing 18 in a second direction opposite to the first direction and illustrated by an arrow 24. The actuation device 10 has a first discharge channel 26, which is assigned to the first actuation chamber 16 and vice versa. The fluid can be discharged from the first actuation chamber 16 via the first discharge channel 26 and introduced into a tank 28, in which the fluid can be received or accommodated at least temporarily. The actuation device 10 also has a second discharge channel 30, which is assigned to the actuation chamber 22 and vice versa. The fluid can be discharged from the second actuation chamber 22 via the second discharge channel 30 and introduced into the tank 28.

[0035] A first supply line 31 is assigned to the actuating chamber 16, via which the fluid can be introduced into the actuating chamber 16. A second supply line 33 is assigned to the actuating chamber 22, via which the fluid can be introduced into the actuating chamber 22. Furthermore, the fluid can be discharged from the actuating chamber 16 via the supply line 31 and guided into the discharge channel 26, and the fluid can be discharged from the actuating chamber 22 via the supply line 33 and fed to the discharge channel 30, thus being introduced into the discharge channel 30. This will be explained in more detail below. The supply line 31 and the discharge channel 26 are used to discharge the fluid from the actuating chamber 16, and the supply line 33 and the discharge channel 30 are used to discharge the fluid from the actuating chamber 22.In other words, the supply line 31 is temporarily used as a third discharge channel to discharge the fluid from the actuating chamber 16 via the third discharge channel and the first discharge channel 26, and the supply line 33 is temporarily used as a fourth discharge channel to discharge the fluid from the second actuating chamber 22 via the fourth discharge channel and the second discharge channel 30.

[0036] In order to switch, i.e., actuate, the switching element 12 particularly reliably and thus advantageously, a first diaphragm valve 32 is arranged in the first discharge channel 26 and a second diaphragm valve 34 is arranged in the second discharge channel 30. The respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 fluidically blocks the respective associated discharge channel 26, 30 until, and preferably only until, a pressure of the fluid in the respective discharge channel 26, 30 at least reaches or exceeds a release pressure of the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34.If the pressure of the fluid in the discharge channel 26, 30 reaches or exceeds the respective release pressure, which is very low, the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 releases the respective associated discharge channel 26, 30 for a flow direction of the fluid running in the direction of the tank 28 and through the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34, so that the fluid can then flow through the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 with an advantageously large volume and / or mass flow and can thereby flow away from the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 and into the tank 28. The respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 represents only a very low flow resistance for this flow. Thus, on the one hand, by means of the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34, an excessive emptying of the respective associated first actuating chamber 16, 22 and / or the respective associated supply line 31, 33 can be avoided.On the other hand, a discharge of the fluid from the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 can be ensured.

[0037] The actuating device 10 comprises a valve device 36, which has a device housing 38, also referred to as the valve housing of the valve device 36, and a valve element 40. Furthermore, the valve device 36, in particular the device housing 38, has a first connection A1 and a second connection A2. In the present case, the valve device 36, in particular the device housing 38, has a third connection A3 and a fourth connection A4.

[0038] The discharge channel 26 is connected to the connection A1, and the discharge channel 30 is connected to the connection A2. It can be seen that in the flow direction of the fluid flowing out of the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 and through the respective discharge channel 26, 30 and thus flowing away from the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 and in the direction of the tank 28 and thus flowing towards the tank 28, the respective connection A1, A2 is arranged or runs downstream of the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 and the respective discharge channel 26, 30 is arranged or runs downstream of the respective connection A1, A2 and thus downstream of the respective actuating chamber 16, 22. With respect to the respective flow direction, the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 is arranged downstream of the valve device 36 and downstream of the respective connection A1, A2.The valve element 40 is translationally movable and thus displaceable relative to the device housing 38 between at least two positions, namely a first position and a second position, along a direction of movement illustrated by a double arrow 43 and extending, for example, along a straight line. Fig. 1, the fluid can be introduced into the first actuating chamber 16 via the valve device 36. For this purpose, the valve device 36, in particular the device housing 38, has a supply connection VA, also referred to as a fifth connection, to which a pump 42 is connected. The pump 42, designed for example as an electric pump, can convey the fluid and, for example, convey it away from itself via a pressure side of the pump 42 and towards the supply connection VA. In the first position, the supply connection VA is fluidically connected to the actuating chamber 16, and the actuating chamber 22 is fluidically separated from the supply connection VA, so that the pump 42 conveys the fluid via the supply connection VA and thus via the valve device 36 into the actuating chamber 16 and in particular not into the actuating chamber 22.In the first position, the second actuating chamber 22 is fluidically connected to the second connection A2 and, via the second connection A2, fluidically connected to the second discharge channel 30, so that the fluid can be discharged from the actuating chamber 22 via the discharge channel 30. In the second position, the second actuating chamber 22 is fluidically separated from the first connection A1 and thus fluidically separated from the first discharge channel 26, and in the first position, the first actuating chamber 16 is fluidically separated from the connections A1 and A2 and thus from the discharge channels 26 and 30.

[0039] In the second position, the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber 22 via the valve device 36. For this purpose, in the second position, the actuating chamber 22 is fluidically connected to the supply connection VA, in particular while the actuating chamber 16 is fluidically separated from the supply connection VA. As a result, the pump 42 conveys the fluid via the supply connection VA into the actuating chamber 22 and in particular not into the actuating chamber 16. In the second position, the first actuating chamber 16 is fluidically connected to the first connection A1 and, via the first connection A1, to the first discharge channel 26, such that the fluid is discharged from the actuating chamber 16 via the first connection A1 into the discharge channel 26 and thus via the connection A1 and via the discharge channel 26 from the actuating chamber 16.In the second position, the first actuating chamber 16 is fluidically separated from the second connection A2 and thereby fluidically from the second discharge channel 30, and in the second position, the second actuating chamber 22 is fluidically separated from the connections A1 and A2 and thereby from the discharge channels 26 and 30.

[0040] In the first position of the valve element 40, the fluid delivered by the pump 42 can be introduced into the first actuating chamber 16 via the valve device 36, in that in the first position the connection A3 is fluidically connected to the supply connection VA and thus via the supply connection VA fluidically to the pump 42. As a result, the supply line 31 fluidically connected to the actuating chamber 16 is fluidically connected via the connection A3 to the supply connection VA, so that the pump 42 conveys the fluid to the supply connection VA, from the supply connection VA to the connection A3 and via the connection A3 into the supply line 31 and conveys it through the supply line 31 and via this into the actuating chamber 16.In the first position, the second actuating chamber 22 is fluidically connected to the second connection A2 and, via the second connection A2, fluidically connected to the second discharge channel 30, in the present case in such a way that the actuating chamber 22 is fluidically connected to the connection A4 via the supply line 33 fluidically connected to the actuating chamber 22 and, via this, fluidically connected to the connection A2 and, via this, fluidically connected to the discharge line 30. In the first position, the connection A4 and thus the supply line 33 and the second actuating chamber 22 are fluidically separated from the first connection A1 and fluidically from the supply connection VA and, thus, fluidically from the discharge channel 26, in that the connection A4 is fluidically separated from the connection A1 and from the supply connection VA by means of the valve element 40.In the first position, the connection A3 and thus the supply line 31 and the actuating chamber 16 are fluidically separated from the connections A1 and A2 and also fluidically from the connection A4 and thus from the discharge channels 26 and 30. In the second position, the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber 22 via the valve device 36, in that in the second position the connection A4 and thus the supply line 33 and the actuating chamber 22 are fluidically connected to the supply connection VA. The pump 42 thus conveys the fluid to the supply connection VA, through the supply connection VA, from there to the connection A4 and via therein into the supply line 33 and through the supply line 33 and via therein into the actuating chamber 22. In the second position, the connection A3 and thus the supply line 31 and the actuating chamber 16 are fluidically connected to the connection A1 and via the connection A1 are fluidically connected to the discharge channel 26.In the second position, the port A3 and thus the supply line 31 and the actuating chamber 16 are fluidically separated from the supply port VA and fluidically from the port A2 and also from the port A4, thereby fluidically separating them from the second discharge channel 30. In the second position, the port A4 and thus the supply line 33 and the second actuating chamber 22 are fluidically separated from the ports A1 and A2, from the supply port VA and from the discharge channels 26 and 30, and also from the port A3.

[0041] In summary, it is provided that in the first position, the supply connection VA is fluidically connected to the connection A3 and thus to the supply line 31 and the actuation chamber 16, and is fluidically separated from the connections A1, A2, and A4 and thus from the supply line 33 and the actuation chamber 22. In the second position, the supply connection VA is fluidically connected to the connection A4 and thus to the supply line 33 and the actuation chamber 22, and the supply connection VA is fluidically separated from the connections A1, A2, and A3 and thus from the supply line 31 and the actuation chamber 16 and the discharge channels 26 and 30.

[0042] The respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 has a respective rubber diaphragm. Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the Fig. 2, designated 44. In the first embodiment, the diaphragm has a curvature W, which is curved opposite to the flow direction, into which the fluid flowing out of the actuating chamber 16, 22 and thus away from the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 and towards the tank 28, thereby flowing through the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34, flows through the respective discharge channel 26, 30. It can be seen that the diaphragm 44 has, in particular, a precisely cross-slit K.

[0043] Fig. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the membrane 44. In the second embodiment, the membrane 44 is flat and thus free of curvature.

[0044] In Fig. In Figure 4, arrows 46 indicate the flow direction in which the fluid flows through the respective discharge channel 26, 30 on its way to the tank 28. It can be seen that the curvature W is opposite to the flow direction.

[0045] Fig. 5 shows a first embodiment of the actuating device 10, in particular the valve device 36. In Fig. 5 shows the diaphragm valve 32 as an example, whereby the previous and following statements regarding the diaphragm valve 32 and the associated discharge channel 26 can also be readily applied to the diaphragm valve 34 and the associated discharge channel 30, and vice versa. The device housing 38 is designed, for example, as a cast housing, thus as a cast component also referred to as a cast part, and is thus manufactured by casting. The device housing 38 has, for example, an interface S, at which the diaphragm valve 32 is arranged and, in particular, is connected to the device housing 38. This prevents the fluid from flowing out of the discharge channels 26 and 30 due to gravity.At the same time, it can be ensured, particularly when the piston is moved in the respective direction, that the fluid is pushed out of the respective actuation chamber 16, 22 and can accordingly flow out of the respective actuation chamber 16, 22. In particular, the interface S is or comprises a valve seat on which the diaphragm valve 32 is seated. In particular, the valve seat is integrated into the device housing 38.

[0046] For example, an outer ring 48 of the diaphragm valve 32 is connected to the diaphragm 44, in particular such that the outer ring 48 is vulcanized into the diaphragm 44. The outer ring 48 is or comprises an outer ring, which, for example, can be clipped or is clipped into a corresponding groove of a valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32. In the present case, the device housing 38 of the valve device 36 is used as the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, so that, for example, the device housing 38 has the aforementioned groove into which the ring 48 or the outer ring 48 can be clipped or is clipped.

[0047] The actuating device 10 enables a fast and reproducible switching of the switching element 12, in particular from the coupled state to the uncoupled state and in particular alternatively or additionally from the uncoupled state to the coupled state.

[0048] Fig. 6 shows a partial schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of the actuating device 10, in particular of the valve device 36. In the second embodiment, the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32 is formed separately from the device housing 38 and in Fig. 6 is designated 50. For example, the diaphragm valve 34 also has a valve housing 52, whereby the previous and following statements regarding the valve housing can also be readily transferred to the valve housing 52 and vice versa. Fig. In the second embodiment shown in Figure 6, the valve housings 50 and 52 are formed integrally with one another, i.e., formed from a single piece. The diaphragms 44 of the diaphragm valves 32 are formed separately from the valve housings 50 and 52 and are fastened to the valve housings 50 and 52. The valve housings 50 and 52, which are formed separately from the device housing 38, are fastened to the device housing 38 by means of at least one fastening element 55. For example, the fastening element 55 is a screw, which is screwed into the device housing 38, for example.

[0049] Fig. 7 shows a third embodiment of the actuating device 10. In the third embodiment, the diaphragm valve 32 has the ring 48, which is formed, for example, from a plastic or a metallic material, in particular from steel. Very particularly, the ring 48 is formed separately from the diaphragm 44 and connected to the diaphragm 44, in particular by the diaphragm 44 being connected to the ring 48 by vulcanization. For this purpose, for example, the diaphragm 44 is vulcanized onto the ring 48. The diaphragm 44 is formed from rubber. In particular, the ring 48 can be at least partially vulcanized into the diaphragm 44. The ring 48 is, for example, pressed into the device housing 38 or into the valve housing 50 of the diaphragm valve 32 and is thereby held on the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, whereby the diaphragm 44 is held on the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32.Furthermore, it is conceivable for the diaphragm 44 to be designed as a multi-composite part, i.e., as a multi-compound part, and in this case, for example, to be injection-molded and vulcanized from plastic or rubber, and to be pressed into the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, i.e., for example, into the valve housing 50 or the device housing 38. It can be seen that the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, i.e., for example, the valve housing 50 or the device housing 38, and in particular the interface S, has a receiving opening 54 through which the fluid can flow. The ring 48 or the diaphragm 44 is, for example, pressed into the receiving opening 54 and thereby in particular into the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, and is thereby held on the valve housing 50 of the diaphragm valve 32.As previously mentioned, the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32 may be the device housing 38 or a separate housing such as the valve housing 50.

[0050] Fig. 8 shows a fourth embodiment of the actuating device 10. In the fourth embodiment, the diaphragm valve 32 has a retaining ring 56 formed separately from the diaphragm 44, which is arranged outside the diaphragm 44, which is arranged outside the retaining ring 56. The retaining ring 56 is arranged adjacent to the diaphragm 44. In particular, the diaphragm 44 and the retaining ring 56 are arranged in the receiving opening 54. As described, the receiving opening 54 can be an opening, in particular designed as a through-opening, in the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, thus of the valve housing 50 or the device housing 38. The retaining ring 56 can, for example, be clipped or can be clipped into a corresponding groove N in the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32, whereby the diaphragm 44 is secured to the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32.In the fourth embodiment, the diaphragm 44 has a thickened outer ring 48, with the retaining ring 56 arranged adjacent to the outer ring 48. In particular, the outer ring 48 is supported on the one hand, in particular directly, on the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32 and on the other hand, in particular directly, on the retaining ring 56, whereby the diaphragm 44 is securely held on the valve housing of the diaphragm valve 32. The receiving opening 54 is formed, for example, as a bore.

[0051] The valve housing 50, 52, in particular according to the second embodiment, can be made of a plastic or a metallic material, in particular steel. Since in the Fig.6, the valve housings 50 and 52 of the diaphragm valves 32 and 34 are formed integrally with one another, i.e. are formed from a single piece, the valve housings 50 and 52 are not formed separately from one another and connected to one another, but rather are formed by a one-piece body, thus formed from a single piece and thus designed as a monoblock. The body is a component which is made, for example, from plastic or from a metallic material, in particular steel. For example, the diaphragms 44 are vulcanized into the said body or connected to the said body by vulcanization. The body is a carrier component which, in the present case, is fastened to the device housing 38 by means of the fastening element 54.The respective valve housing 50, 52 has a respective through-opening 60, 62 in which the respective diaphragm 44 of the respective diaphragm valve 32, 34 is arranged. The respective through-opening 60, 62 is part of the respective discharge channel 26, 30 and can therefore be flowed through in the direction of flow by the fluid flowing out of the respective actuating chamber 16, 22. This can prevent excessive emptying of the respective actuating chamber 16, 22 and / or the respective supply line 31, 33. At the same time, when the pressure of the fluid in the respective discharge channel 26, 30 reaches or exceeds the very low release pressure, also referred to as the opening pressure, the diaphragm 44 can allow the fluid to pass through it in an advantageously large quantity, i.e., with an advantageously large volume and / or mass flow, so that the fluid can be safely discharged from the respective actuating chamber 16, 22.This ensures safe switching of the switching element 12. List of reference symbols 10 Actuating device 12 Switching element 14 actuating pistons 16 first operating room 18 housings 20 Arrow 22 second operating room 24 Arrow 26 first discharge channel 28 tanks 30 second discharge channel 32 first diaphragm valve 34 second diaphragm valve 36 Valve device 38 furnishing housings 40 valve element 42 Pump 44 Membran 46 Arrow 48 rings 50 valve housings 52 valve housing 54 Receiving opening 56 Retaining ring 60 passage opening 62 passage opening A1 first connection A2 second connection K Phillips VA supply connection W curvature S interface N groove QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2013 225 337 A1

[0003] DE 10 2020 004 981 B3

[0003]

Claims

[1] Actuating device (10) for actuating a shifting element (12) of a transmission for a drive train of a motor vehicle, comprising an actuating piston (14) for actuating the shifting element (12), comprising a first actuating chamber (16) into which a fluid can be introduced to actuate the shifting element (12), whereby the actuating piston (14) can be actuated with the fluid and can thereby be moved in a first direction (20), comprising a second actuating chamber (22) into which the fluid can be introduced to actuate the shifting element (12), whereby the actuating piston (14) can be actuated with the fluid and can thereby be moved in a second direction (24) opposite the first direction (20), comprising a first discharge channel (26) via which the fluid can be discharged from the first actuating chamber (16), and comprising a second discharge channel (30) via which the fluid can be discharged from the second actuating chamber (22) is deductible, characterized bythat a diaphragm valve (32, 34) is arranged in at least one of the discharge channels (26, 30). [2] Actuating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that the at least one discharge channel (26) is the first discharge channel (26) and the diaphragm valve (32) is a first diaphragm valve (32), wherein a second diaphragm valve (34) is arranged in the second discharge channel (30). [3] Actuating device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a valve device (36) having a first connection (A1) to which the first discharge channel (26) is connected, a second connection (A2) to which the second discharge channel (30) is connected, and a valve element (40) which is adjustable between: - a first position in which: ◯ the fluid can be introduced into the first actuating chamber (16) via the valve device (36); ◯ the second actuating chamber (22) is fluidically connected to the second connection (A2) and via the second connection (A2) is fluidically connected to the second discharge channel (30); ◯ the second actuating chamber (22) is fluidically separated from the first connection (A1) and thereby fluidically from the first discharge channel (26); and ◯ the first actuating chamber (16) is fluidically separated from the connections (A1, A2) and thus from the discharge channels (26, 30); and - a second position in which: ◯ the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber (22) via the valve device (36); ◯ the first actuating chamber (16) is fluidically connected to the first connection (A1) and via the first connection (A1) is fluidically connected to the first discharge channel (26); ◯ the first actuating chamber (16) is fluidically separated from the second connection (A2) and thereby fluidically from the second discharge channel (30); and ◯ the second actuating chamber (22) is fluidically separated from the connections (A1, A2) and thus from the discharge channels (26, 30). [4] Actuating device (10) according to claim 3, characterized by that the valve device (36) has a third connection (VA) which: - in the first position, it is fluidically connected to the first actuating chamber (16) and fluidically separated from the second actuating chamber (22), whereby in the first position the fluid can be introduced into the first actuating chamber (16) via the third connection (VA); and - in the second position, it is fluidically connected to the second actuating chamber (22) and fluidically separated from the first actuating chamber (16), whereby in the second position the fluid can be introduced into the second actuating chamber (22) via the third connection (VA). [5] Actuating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the diaphragm valve (32, 34) has a diaphragm (44) made of rubber. [6] Actuating device (10) according to claim 5, characterized by that the membrane (4) is circular and has at least or exactly one slot, in particular a Phillips slot (K). [7] Actuating device (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that the membrane (44) is flat. [8] Actuating device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 6, characterized by in that the membrane (44) has a curvature (W) which is curved opposite to a flow direction (46) into which the at least one discharge channel (26, 30) can be flowed by the fluid flowing out of the actuating chamber (16, 30) belonging to the at least one discharge channel (26, 30). [9] Actuating device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized bythat the membrane (44) has an outer ring (48) which is clipped or can be clipped into a corresponding groove (N) of a valve housing (38, 50, 52) of the membrane valve (32, 34). [10] Actuating device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized by in that the membrane (44) has an outer ring (48), wherein adjacent to the outer ring (48) there is arranged a retaining ring (56) which is arranged outside the membrane (44) and is formed separately from the membrane (44), and which is clipped or can be clipped into a corresponding groove (N) of a valve housing (38, 50, 52) of the membrane valve (32, 34).

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