Actuator and method for adjusting control variables

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuator and a method for adjusting control variables and is applicable in particular in control engineering, for example in the operation of heating systems. The actuator comprises a first actuator designed as an expansion element (3, 4) and a second actuator designed either as an expansion element (14, 15) or as a spring element (13) and a mechanism (A, B) for fixing setpoint values ​​specified by a signal transmitter (6) by means of a detent system. The inventive method for adjusting control variables is based on the fact that length and / or angle values ​​specified as setpoints by means of a signal transmitter (6) are set via actuators by means of expansion elements (3, 4, 14, 15) and subsequently fixed when the setpoint is reached, whereby no energy is required to maintain the fixation after it has been fixed.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an actuator and a method for adjusting manipulated variables and is applicable in particular in control and regulation technology, for example in the operation of heating systems.

[0002] In our modern society, there are a very wide range of applications and requirements for drive technology and the control and regulation of drives, procedures, processes, and mechanisms. Many things are regulated or controlled by adjusting the position of moving parts—for example, volume flows, flow directions, and temperatures of liquid and gaseous substances. Quite a few technical mechanisms are deliberately influenced by humans and / or machines. They are opened, closed, stopped, limited, initiated, accelerated, etc.

[0003] Simple, commercially available actuators for heating surfaces, such as underfloor heating, have only two permanent states: either "open" or "closed." And, according to current technology, one of these two states requires electrical current or another form of energy for the entire active period.

[0004] For example, DE 29 48 637 A1 describes a heating control device with underfloor heating circuits, in which an electric solenoid valve is located in the respective supply line of the individual heating elements, which can be controlled by at least one thermostat for single- or multi-zone temperature control, which is arranged spatially separate from the heating element in the room to be heated.

[0005] DE 10 2020 11 4284 B3 discloses a window handle coupling with an expansion drive. The expansion drive comprises an expansion element and a spring element. If the expansion element expands due to external influences, its expansion is converted by the spring element into a force that rotates the window handle coupling and thus opens the window fittings.

[0006] The invention is based on the object of creating an actuator which is versatile, easy and cost-effective to manufacture, has a clear mechanical and electrical design and can be used in an energy-saving manner.

[0007] The actuator according to the invention should furthermore significantly reduce energy consumption in many application areas, be able to fix any number of setpoints, manipulated variables or positions and have a significantly longer service life than known actuators of this type.

[0008] The method for adjusting manipulated variables is intended to ensure reliable and energy-efficient operation of the actuator according to the invention.

[0009] These objects are achieved by the features in claims 1 and 4. Expedient embodiments of the invention are contained in the subclaims.

[0010] The actuator according to the invention controls, for example, the flow of gases or liquids in pipes, or the setting angle of a wing, or the stroke of a valve and much more through the mechanical movement of an actuator or a control part such as a lever arm or a wheel.

[0011] The type of manipulation of the control element - or the control variable - according to the principle of the actuator according to the invention can be transferred to a wide variety of applications.

[0012] Many mechanical applications with a short travel range and slow movements can be controlled by the actuator according to the invention for decades in a continuous and energy-saving manner.

[0013] A particular advantage of the invention is that the setpoint values ​​set with the actuator according to the invention require neither electrical current nor any other form of energy to maintain them over their entire active period, in that the actuator has a first actuator designed as an expansion element and alternatively either a second actuator designed as an expansion element or as a spring element and comprises a mechanism for fixing setpoint values ​​predetermined by a signal transmitter by means of a locking system.

[0014] A further advantage of the invention lies in the variety of possible realization forms and fields of application, in that the expansion elements are designed thermomechanically or electromechanically or bionic, whereby the expansion elements cause volume / length changes and the control variable is decoupled from the volume / length change after fixing.

[0015] A significant advantage of the method according to the invention is that length and / or angle values ​​specified as a target value are set via actuators by means of expansion elements by means of a signal transmitter and are subsequently fixed when the target value is reached, whereby no energy is required to maintain the fixation after the fixation has taken place.

[0016] After fixing, the control variable is decoupled from the volume / length change, and the fixing is carried out by means of a mechanism with a grid system.

[0017] Signals from the signal generator release the fixation, allowing new target values ​​to be set. Fixation can occur automatically when the expansion elements are deactivated.

[0018] An optimal procedure for adjusting the control variables is achieved by detecting the position of the actuators and transmitting it to a control device, and the control device compares the activities of the expansion elements with the setpoints to be controlled. If no setpoints need to be changed, the system remains passive, thus saving energy and reducing its own wear.

[0019] A preferred application of the invention is heating technology. An active thermal actuator for an underfloor heating system, for example, consumes approximately 1-2.5 watts of electrical energy. An apartment usually has several rooms, meaning several actuators; a house has several apartments; a city has several houses throughout the entire heating season! This example of the technical function / principle of the actuator for underfloor heating systems is used in many other technical applications, in a similar or similar manner.

[0020] The potential savings of electrical energy with, for example, 25 million underfloor heating actuators installed in Germany amounts to approximately 187,500,000 kWh of energy consumed per year.

[0021] With an average consumption of 2,500kWh per household per year, this corresponds to the energy consumption of around 75,000 German households.

[0022] The idea of ​​the invention is based on the principle of volume or length changes of materials as a result of manipulation by external influences, as is typical for various expansion material drives (actuators).

[0023] Expandable drives / actuators in the sense of our invention are based on the ability of certain materials to significantly change their volume or length as a result of external influences. Typical examples of such influences are changes in temperature, humidity, or electrical voltage. If these values ​​increase, the volume or length of the material usually also increases. If these values ​​decrease, the volume or length usually decreases.

[0024] The volume / length change of the expansion actuators / drives is directly dependent on the influence causing this change. This is the reason for the constant energy consumption of, for example, thermal actuators for underfloor heating systems in one of the two states "closed" or "open."

[0025] The core of the present invention is the decoupling of the manipulated variable from its direct cause, the change in volume or length of one or more actuators.

[0026] The schematic structure of the actuator according to the invention can be described as follows: There is an actuator X, e.g., an expandable actuator in the form of a cylinder or belt. If this actuator X is caused to expand in a certain direction by an event, e.g., by switching on electrical energy, then it is able to push another element—e.g., a lever H—in front of it.

[0027] If the actuator is now caused to contract to its original state by a second event, e.g. switching off the electrical power, then the lever H remains at the reached position, e.g. 100% of the possible travel.

[0028] Actuator X is not mechanically connected to lever H and is therefore unable to retract lever H. Lever H remains where actuator X pushed it, at 100% of its possible travel.

[0029] In this position, lever H is fixed indefinitely by a suitable mechanism M. It can passively fix any setpoint—in this example, the 100% setpoint. The actuator consumes no energy in this state. If the setpoint remains constant over a period of time, the actuator saves exactly as much energy as a conventional active actuator would require to maintain this 100% position.

[0030] In a new situation, the setpoint or manipulated variable should be reduced from 100% to 50%.

[0031] For this purpose, there is a second actuator Y – e.g., an expansion actuator or a compression or tension spring. Due to its arrangement, actuator Y is capable of acting in the opposite direction to actuator X. If actuator Y is activated by an event, the locking of lever H is released simultaneously or with a time delay.

[0032] Actuator Y then pushes lever H forward until it reaches the setpoint of 50%. A control signal indicating that the setpoint of 50% has been reached deactivates the extension of actuator Y. Actuator Y returns to its original length if necessary. Lever H, on the other hand, is fixed in the reached position by mechanism M and passively controls the setpoint of 50%.

[0033] After some time, a new event requires a different setpoint. If this new setpoint is greater than 50%, e.g., 75%, then actuator X sets the new position. If the new setpoint is less than 50%, actuator Y adjusts until the new position, e.g., 25%, is reached. Mechanism M then fixes the new position.

[0034] The mechanism M automatically fixes the position of lever H at any number of values ​​between 0 and 100% as soon as the influence of the actuators ceases and the mechanism M receives a corresponding signal. A sensor is present that can read the actual position of lever H and transmit it to a control logic. This control logic compares the activity of actuators X and Y with the setpoint or manipulated variable to be controlled. If no setpoints need to be changed, the system remains passively fixed, thus saving energy and simultaneously reducing its own wear.

[0035] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown at least in part in the figures.

[0036] The figures show: Fig. 00a the state of the art with a first possible target value Fig. 00b the state of the art with a second possible setpoint Fig. 01a a schematic diagram of the actuator with the actuator Fig. 01b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 01a Fig. 02a a schematic diagram of the actuator with released locking mechanism Fig. 02b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 02a Fig. 03a a change in position of the actuator Fig. 03b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 03a Fig. 04a the maximum possible target, actuating, control or working travel Fig. 04b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 04a Fig. 05a a first set target value Fig. 05b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 05a Fig. 06a a second setpoint of the actuator with released locking mechanism Fig. 06b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 06a Fig. 07a the locking mechanism with fixed setpoint passive Fig. 07b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 07a Fig. 08a a variant with inward-facing, counter-acting actuators Fig. 08b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 08a Fig. 09a a variant with activated energy converters Fig. 09b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 09a Fig. 10a a variant with detached working piston Fig. 10b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 10a Fig. 11a a variant with shifted working piston 5 Fig. 11b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 11a Fig. 12a a variant with the points P1, P2 and P3 fixed at a new position Fig. 12b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 12a Fig. 13a a variant with passively fixed position on the right Fig. 13b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 13a Fig. 14a a variant with passively fixed position on the left Fig. 14b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 14a Fig. 15a a variant with outward-facing, counter-acting actuators Fig. 15b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 15a Fig. 16a a variant with activated energy converters Fig. 16b a representation shifted by 90° to Fig. 16a Fig. 17a a variant with detached working piston Fig. 17b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 17a Fig. 18a a variant with shifted working piston Fig. 18b a representation shifted by 90° to Fig. 18a Fig. 19a the realization of the maximum possible travel to the right Fig. 19b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 19a Fig. 20a the fixed position Fig. 19 Fig. 20b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 20a Fig. 21a the energy converters and the actuators in their passive state Fig. 21b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 21a Fig. 22a another passively fixed position Fig. 22b a representation offset by 90° to Fig. 22a Fig. 23a a variant with actuators acting side by side in the same direction Fig. 23b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 23a Fig. 24a a variant with activated energy converters Fig. 24b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 24a Fig. 25a a variant with released working piston Fig. 25b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 25a Fig. 26a a variant with rotating actuators Fig. 26b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 26a Fig. 27a a variant with closed locking mechanism Fig. 27b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 27a Fig. 28a the energy converters and the actuators in their passive state Fig. 28b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 28a Fig. 29a another passively fixed position Fig. 29b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 29a Fig. 30a the variant with actuators acting at an angle of 90° to each other Fig. 30b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 30a Fig. 31a the activated energy converters Fig. 31b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 31a Fig. 32a a variant with detached working piston Fig. 32b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 32a Fig. 33a a variant with right-turning actuator Fig. 33b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 33a Fig. 34a a variant with closed locking mechanism Fig. 34b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 34a Fig. 35a the energy converter actuators in their passive state Fig. 35b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 35a Fig. 36a another passively fixed position Fig. 36b a representation shifted by 180° to Fig. 36a

[0037] The Fig. 00a and Fig. 00b show known solutions from the state of the art.

[0038] Fig. Figure 00a shows the state-of-the-art of a typical thermal actuator with the first possible setpoint or manipulated variable. Point P1 is located at 0% of the travel range.

[0039] Fig. Figure 00b shows the state of the art with the second possible setpoint or manipulated variable. Point P1 is located at 100% of the travel range.

[0040] According to the state of the art, maintaining one of the two permanently possible setpoints or manipulated variables of P1 = 0% or = 100% requires permanent energy.

[0041] The passive, variable, fixing actuator according to the invention is described in the following embodiments in two different designs.

[0042] The Z1 design operates with a controllable actuator / expansion element and an uncontrolled, passive spring element as a counterforce. Compared to the second design, the Z2, the Z1 design is the more compact and likely also the more cost-effective variant.

[0043] The Z2 design operates with two separately controllable actuators / expansion elements. This enables more precise control of the setpoints or manipulated variables, among other advantages, due to the elimination of the permanent spring tension.

[0044] Depending on the application to be implemented and its technical requirements, you can choose between the Z1 and Z2 designs.

[0045] For tapping the mechanical control functions, points P1, P2, and, if applicable, P3 are marked in all figures. There are any number of suitable positions at which this control function can be tapped according to requirements. Type Z1No. I. - Structure and function

[0046] The basis of the Z1 design is a first housing part 1 that is fixed to the application to be controlled.

[0047] The following component, the energy converter 2 - e.g. a medium with a higher energy level (e.g. warm liquid, gas, etc.), a thermoelectric or inductive element - manipulates the actual actuator, which in the illustrations consists of the abstracted parts 3 and 4 as an example. Fig. 01a - Fig. 01b

[0048] This actuator 3, 4 can, for example, consist of a thermally operating expansion element. If this expansion element is manipulated, for example, by heating the energy source on the energy converter 2, the actuator 3, 4 experiences a significant change in length. In the present embodiment, it expands.

[0049] In order to allow this, a locking mechanism A, B, for example consisting of the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10, must first release the fixation of the working piston 5. Fig. 02a - Detail A

[0050] If the working piston 5 is free, the change in length of the actuator 3, 4 causes a change in position of the working piston 5 in a direction predetermined by the design (see black arrows in the figures). Fig. 03a

[0051] Once the desired position—the setpoint or manipulated variable—is reached, the energy source at energy converter 2 is deactivated, causing actuator 3, 4 to cease its action. Without a fixation, the strong spring 13 would push actuator 3, 4 and working piston 5 back to their original position.

[0052] In order to prevent this undesired departure from the achieved position / setpoint of the working piston 5, it is fixed in the desired position by a suitable locking mechanism A, B with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10 against the permanently acting spring force of the spring 13. Fig. 04a

[0053] The gradation of the necessary / possible locking steps of the first and second locking elements 5 and 8 is primarily determined by the required positioning accuracy and the forces occurring. Examples are shown in the Fig. 01-07 seven possible fixing positions or steps.

[0054] In Fig. 04 shows an example of the maximum possible target, actuating, control, or operating travel with a fixed working piston 5. The mechanical actuating function, i.e., the travel and force of the Z1 design, can be used or taken off at points P1 and P2 using suitable connections (not shown).

[0055] In order to read the actual position – the actual value – of the working piston 5 independently of the tapping points P1 and P2, a suitable sensor, consisting for example of the transmitter 6 and the receiver 7, is integrated. (see detail B in Fig. 01-07)

[0056] The values ​​of the sensors 6, 7 can be interpreted by suitable systems (not shown) and used to monitor and change the setpoints.

[0057] For the sake of completeness, the second housing part 11 and the third housing part 12 should also be mentioned. They are firmly connected to the first housing part 1 and serve to support the overall function. The detailed structure of the entire housing can be derived from the Fig. 01-07 may differ from the concept shown.

[0058] This completely describes the process of a first, simple adjustment procedure. Fig. 05a - Fig. 05b - shows the setpoint “passive, 100%, fixed”.

[0059] The possible realizations of the locking mechanism A, B with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10 and the sensor 6, 7 are briefly described for the design Z1 and design Z2 at the end of this text.

[0060] If a new setpoint or manipulated variable is to be controlled in a second step, before releasing the locking mechanism A, B with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10, the energy converter 2 must move the actuators 3, 4 to the current position of the working piston 5 and build up a certain pressure, since the spring 13 would otherwise suddenly push the working piston 5 back to its stop.

[0061] If the actuators 3, 4 are brought closer to the working piston 5, the locking mechanism A, B with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10 can be released and a new target value can be set through the interaction of the working piston 5 and spring 13. Fig. 06a - Fig. 06b

[0062] If the correct position is detected by the sensor 6, 7, the locking mechanism A, B closes with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10 and thus fixes the new target value, e.g. in three of seven possible setting steps. Fig. 07a - Fig. 07b

[0063] Any setpoint or manipulated variable provided by the design can be fixed in an energy-saving manner thanks to this simple structure and process. Types Z2

[0064] Unlike the Z1 type, the Z2 types do not operate with a spring, but with a second, controllable actuator / expansion element. The advantages of the Z2 types include, in addition to potentially more precise control of the setpoints, the reduced wear, which can be achieved by eliminating the continuous load on the spring.

[0065] The designs with two controllable actuators enabled the construction of essentially similar variants with different detailed features. For example, the housing shapes and, if necessary, the actuating characteristics can be adapted to the given requirements by adjusting the respective angle of the two actuators to each other.

[0066] The arrangements of two actuators at an angle of 180° to each other acting inwards (No. II) or outwards (No. III) - at an angle of 0° next to each other acting in the same direction (No. IV) - and at an angle of 90° to each other acting (No. V) appear to be practicable.

[0067] Any other operating angle of the actuators between 0 and 360° relative to each other is technically possible and may be appropriate. The travel ranges of both actuators can be controlled independently.

[0068] Most stretching elements only develop their adjusting force in one direction, which is why, as with muscles, a second stretching element - or a spring - is needed for the return path.

[0069] In Fig. Figure 08-36 shows the four Z2 designs mentioned above in various, similar states / positions. It can be seen that the energy sources or energy converters 2, 16 and the actuator components 3, 4, 14, 15 are each present twice, each acting on a differently designed working piston 5. No. II. - Structure and function

[0070] Fig. 08a and Fig. Figure 8b shows the variant with counter-acting actuators directed 180° inward, consisting of actuators 3, 4, 14, and 15 in a static state. The setpoint is fixed at 50% of the travel by the locking mechanism A, B with the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. The energy converters 2, 16 have no influence on the system, and the actuators 3, 4, 14, and 15 are in a passive state. The housing parts, first housing part 1 and fourth housing part 17, are shown as examples in the perspective views for better understanding.

[0071] In Fig. 09a and Fig. 09b, the energy converters 2, 16 are activated and have moved the actuators 4, 14 toward the working piston 5. The working piston 5 remains fixed. The sensor, consisting of sensor transmitter 6 and sensor receiver 7, is activated and can read the current position. (See arrows in Detail B) For example, the control value 50% can be read at points P1, P2, and P3.

[0072] In Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b, the working piston 5 is released / unlocked by the locking mechanism A, B comprising the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. It can be moved to a new position / setpoint by the action of the energy sources / energy converters 2, 16 using the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15. During this process, points P1, P2, and P3 change their position. The sensor 6, 7 can read the actual value throughout the entire dynamic process.

[0073] In Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b, the actuator 3, 4 pushes the working piston 5 to the right due to the action of the energy converter 2. The positions of points P1, P2, and P3 change, and the sensor 6, 7 reads the current position (see the arrow shift in detail B). The lever arm 19 in detail B illustrates the movement and the resulting possibilities. (The principle of an eccentric is shown here.)

[0074] In Fig. 12a and Fig. 12b, the sensor 6, 7 has detected / read the desired position, and a control signal triggers the locking mechanism A, B with the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. The points P1, P2, and P3 are fixed in a new position.

[0075] Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b shows a passively fixed position on the left side. No. III. - Structure and Function

[0076] Fig. 15a and Fig. Figure 15b shows the variant with counter-acting actuators 3, 4, 14, 15 directed 180° outward in a static state. The current setpoint or manipulated variable is fixed in the middle of the possible travel range (50%) by the locking mechanism A, B comprising the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. The energy converters 2, 16 have no influence on the system, and the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15 are in a passive state. The housing parts 1, 17 are shown as examples in the perspective views for better understanding.

[0077] In Fig. 16a and Fig. At 16b, energy converters 2, 16 are activated and have moved parts 4, 14 toward the working piston 5. The working piston 5 remains fixed. The sensor, consisting of sensor 6 and sensor 7, is activated and can read the current position. (The abstract representation of its operation using arrows as in PVF No. 02 has been omitted here.) For example, the control value "50% fixed" can be read at points P1, P2, and P3.

[0078] In Fig. 17a and Fig. 17b, the working piston 5 is released / unlocked by the locking mechanism A, B comprising the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. It can be moved to a new setpoint or manipulated variable by the action of the energy converters 2, 16 using the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15. During this process, points P1, P2, and P3 change their position. The sensor 6, 7 can read the actual value throughout the entire dynamic process.

[0079] In Fig. 18a and Fig. 18b, the actuator 3, 4 pushes the working piston 5 to the right due to the action of the energy converter 2. The positions of points P1, P2, and P3 change, and the sensor 6, 7 reads the current position. Detail B shows the principle of an exemplary eccentric mechanism in section. In the perspective views, the eccentric shaft 18, the lever arm 19, and point P3 illustrate the movement resulting from the use of the eccentric. Fig. 18a and Fig. 18b shows about ¾ of the possible travel range unfixed.

[0080] Fig. 19a and Fig. Figure 19b shows 100% of the possible travel to the right. The structure of the eccentric is now clearly visible under B. The first actuator 3, 4 is the dominant one in this situation. The second actuator 14, 15 prevents the working piston 5 from moving freely by exerting a slight counterpressure.

[0081] In Fig. 20a and Fig. 20b, the exemplary locking mechanism A, B closes with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10 and fixes the current position '100% right'.

[0082] In Fig. 21a and Fig. Figure 21b shows energy converters 2, 16 and actuators 3, 4, 14, and 15 in their passive state. Points P1, P2, and P3 remain passively fixed, here '100% right'.

[0083] Fig. 22a and Fig. Figure 22b shows the passively fixed position '100% left'. No. IV. - Structure and Function

[0084] Fig. 23a and Fig. Figure 23b shows the variant with actuators 3, 4, 14, 15 acting side by side at an angle of 0° in the same direction in a static state. The current setpoint is fixed in the middle of the possible travel range (50%) by the locking mechanism A, B comprising the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. The energy converters 2, 16 have no influence on the system, and the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15 are in a passive state. The housing parts 1, 17 are shown as examples in the perspective views for better understanding.

[0085] In Fig. 24a and Fig. At 24b, the energy converters 2, 16 are activated and have moved parts 4, 14 toward the working piston 5. The working piston 5 remains fixed. The sensor, consisting of sensor transmitter 6 and sensor receiver 7, is activated and can read the current position. For example, the control value "50% fixed" can be read at points P1, P2, and P3.

[0086] In Fig. 25a and Fig. 25b, the working piston 5 is released / unlocked by the locking mechanism A, B comprising the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. It can be moved to a new position / setpoint by the action of the energy converters 2, 16 using the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15. During this process, points P1, P2, and P3 change their position. The sensor 6, 7 can read the actual value throughout the entire dynamic process.

[0087] In Fig. 26a and Fig. 26b, the actuator 14, 15 rotates the working piston 5 to the right due to the influence of the energy source / energy converter 16 (see arrows). The working piston 5 is axially mounted in this design and rotates around the center cross in Fig. 26a 00°. The positions of points P1, P2, and P3 change, and sensors 6 and 7 read the current position. The two perspective views illustrate the rotation of lever arm 19. Shown here is '100%, right, unfixed' of the possible travel range.

[0088] In Fig. 27a and Fig. 27b, the locking mechanism A, B with the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10 is closed again, thereby locking the working piston 5. The energy converters 2, 16 are still active.

[0089] In Fig. 28a and Fig. Figure 28b shows the energy converters 2, 16 and the two actuators 3, 4, 14, and 15 in their passive state. Points P1, P2, and P3 remain passively fixed, here '100% right'.

[0090] Fig. 29a and Fig. Figure 29b shows the passively fixed position '100% left'. No. V. - Structure and Function

[0091] Fig. 30a and Fig. Figure 30b shows the variant with actuators 3, 4, 14, 15 acting at an angle of 90° to each other in the static state. The current setpoint is fixed in the middle of the possible travel range (50%) by the locking mechanism A, B with the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. The energy converters 2, 16 have no influence on the system, and the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15 are in a passive state. The housing parts 1, 17 are shown as examples in the perspective views for better understanding.

[0092] In Fig. 31a and Fig. At 31b, the energy converters 2, 16 are activated and have moved parts 4, 14 toward the working piston 5. The working piston 5 remains fixed. The sensor, consisting of sensor transmitter 6 and sensor receiver 7, is activated and can read the current position. For example, the control value "50% fixed" can be read at points P1, P2, and P3.

[0093] In Fig. 32a and Fig. 32b, the working piston 5 is released / unlocked by the locking mechanism A, B comprising the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10. It can be moved to a new position / setpoint by the action of the energy converters 2, 16 using the actuators 3, 4, 14, 15. During this process, points P1, P2, and P3 change their position. The sensor 6, 7 can read the actual value throughout the entire dynamic process.

[0094] In Fig. 33a and Fig. 33b, the actuator 3, 4 rotates the working piston 5 to the right due to the action of the energy converter 2 (see arrows). The working piston 5 is axially mounted in this design and rotates around the center cross in Fig. 33a 00°. The positions of the points P1, P2 and P3 change and the sensor 6, 7 reads the current position (see small symbolic arrows in Fig. 33b Detail B). The two perspective views illustrate the rotation of lever arm 19. Shown here is '100%, right, unfixed' of the possible travel.

[0095] In Fig. 34a and Fig. 34b, the locking mechanism A, B with the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10 is closed again, thereby locking the working piston 5. The energy converters 2, 16 are still active.

[0096] In Fig. 35a and Fig. Figure 35b shows the energy converters 2, 16 and the two actuators 3, 4, 14, and 15 in their passive state. Points P1, P2, and P3 remain passively fixed, here '100% right'.

[0097] Fig. 36a and Fig. Figure 36b shows the passively fixed position '100% left'.

[0098] The locking mechanism A, B with the parts first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9 and locking spring 10 is described in more detail below.

[0099] The concept of the actuator according to the invention can be adapted to specific requirements in terms of its design, strength, and size. The typical performance spectrum of thermal actuators, for example, ranges from approximately 100 to 1500 Newtons (approximately 150 kg) of actuating force with a maximum stroke of approximately 5 to 25 millimeters.

[0100] The requirements for the locking mechanism or an adequate function are correspondingly different in order to be able to permanently and reliably fix the associated, sometimes very large, actuating forces in a passive manner.

[0101] Many locking and locking mechanisms have been developed in technology, suitable for a wide variety of applications. Some of the well-known locking mechanisms are suitable for passively locking the setpoint.

[0102] Of particular note are the mechanical locking mechanisms used in adjustable pipe wrenches, bit ratchets, and ratchet wrenches. They provide a vivid example of the performance of such mechanisms.

[0103] The following principles are conceivable as suitable drives for the locking mechanisms: • Magnetic coils with a movable metal core and spring, such as those used in electric door locks • pneumatic and hydraulic actuators • Mechanisms based on bi- or shape memory metals • bionic actuators

[0104] The prototypical sequence of a locking process can be described as follows: The locking mechanism can, for example, consist of a linear tooth profile – as can be seen on the working piston 5 – and a matching counterpart locking element 8. As long as the system is fixed / passive, the counterpart locking element 8 is pressed or pulled into the tooth profile of the working piston 5, e.g., by a spring 10, and thus passively blocks the change of the setpoint or manipulated variable. Fig. 08a Detail A To change the setpoint, the locking mechanism is released by pulling or pushing the counterpart 8 out of the tooth profile of the working piston 5 using a suitable ratchet drive 9, e.g., an electric coil. The linear tooth profile of the working piston 5 can now move within its design specifications. / Fig. 10a Detail A

[0105] Once the target value is reached, the drive of the locking mechanism A, B – represented here by the first locking element 5, second locking element 8, locking drive 9, and locking spring 10 – is deactivated, and the counterpart locking element 8 engages the linear tooth profile of the working piston 5 under the action of the locking spring 10. The entire system is again passively fixed. / Fig. 12a Detail A

[0106] The sensor - consisting of the parts sensor transmitter 6 and sensor receiver 7 - is described in more detail below.

[0107] The sensor 6, 7 generally serves to determine the current, actual position of the working piston 5 with the points P1, P2, P3 and to compare the actual value with the setpoint or manipulated variable.

[0108] The multitude of possible designs, sizes, and applications of the actuator according to the invention does not allow for a precise description of the sensor(s) 6, 7. Its design, like the locking mechanism A, B, can be very diverse.

[0109] There are various types of sensors suitable for the described task. One suitable sensor group is certainly resistive sensors, i.e., sensors that can measure, for example, changes in electrical resistance.

[0110] But any other mode of operation, such as mechanical, capacitive, inductive, magnetic, piezoelectric, thermoelectric or optical, is also conceivable and may be useful.

[0111] In addition, various designs are known for many sensor types, such as rotary and slide controls. Particularly low-wear and durable designs are preferred. This sensor group is used, for example, in Fig. 09b in Detail B and the following are shown as examples.

[0112] The sensor is followed by a suitable signal processing / evaluation system using different, but mostly electrical / electronic, systems. A logic unit that reads the sensor signals controls the setpoint or manipulated variable for P1, P2, and P3.

[0113] The invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. Rather, it is possible to realize further embodiments by combining and varying the means and features presented without departing from the scope of the invention. Reference symbol 1 first housing part 2, 16 energy converters 3, 15 Actuator fixed 4, 14 Actuator movable 5 working pistons with first locking element 6 Sensor encoder 7 Sensor Receiver 8 second locking element 9-position drive 10 detent spring 11 second housing part 12 third housing part 13 Spring element 17 fourth housing part 18 Eccentric shaft 19 lever arm A, B locking mechanism P1, P2, P3 tapping points 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 29 48 637 A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Actuator for adjusting manipulated variables comprising a first actuator designed as an expansion element (3, 4) and a second actuator designed alternatively either as an expansion element (14, 15) or as a spring element (13) and a mechanism (A, B) for fixing setpoint values predetermined by a signal transmitter (6) by means of a locking system. [2] Actuator according to claim 1, characterized by that the expansion elements (3, 4, 14, 15) are thermomechanical, electromechanical or bionic. [3] Actuator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the expansion elements (3, 4, 14, 15) cause volume / length changes and the control variable is decoupled from the volume / length change after fixing. [4] Method for adjusting manipulated variables, wherein length and / or angle values predetermined as a setpoint are set via actuators by means of expansion elements (3, 4, 14, 15) by means of a signal transmitter (6) and are subsequently fixed when the setpoint is reached, wherein after the fixation has taken place no energy is required to maintain the fixation. [5] Method for adjusting manipulated variables according to claim 4, characterized by that the manipulated variable is decoupled from the volume / length change after fixing. [6] Method for adjusting manipulated variables according to claim 4, characterized by that the fixation is carried out by the mechanism (A, B) with a grid system (5, 8, 9, 10). [7] Method for adjusting manipulated variables according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized by that the fixation is canceled by signals from the signal generator (6) and new setpoints can be set. [8] Method for adjusting manipulated variables according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized by that the fixation takes place automatically with deactivation of the expansion elements (3, 4 ,14, 15). [9] Method for adjusting manipulated variables according to one of claims 4 to 8, characterized by that the position of the actuators is recorded and transmitted to a control device. [10] Method for adjusting manipulated variables according to claim 9, characterized by that the control device compares the activities of the expansion elements (3, 4, 14, 15) with the setpoints to be controlled, whereby if no setpoints are to be changed, the system remains passive and thus saves energy and reduces its own wear.

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