Actuator device, magnetic actuator and method

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuator device (14), in particular a magnetic actuator device, with an armature unit (10), comprising at least one armature element (12) mounted for at least linear movement, which is provided for at least one interaction with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator (16) comprising the actuator device (14), and comprising at least one actuating element (18) mounted for at least linear movement, in particular rod-like, which is preferably provided in at least one operating mode for transmitting an actuating movement generated by the armature element (12). It is proposed that the actuating element (18) and the anchoring element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to each other, in particular in at least one actuating direction (20) of the actuator device (14).

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to an actuator device according to the preamble of claim 1, a magnetic actuator according to claim 19 and a method according to the preamble of claim 20.

[0002] An actuator device with an armature unit, comprising at least one armature element mounted for linear movement, which is intended to interact with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator comprising the actuator device, and comprising at least one actuating element mounted for linear movement, has already been proposed.

[0003] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with advantageous properties with respect to a force characteristic, especially a force-displacement characteristic, of an actuating element, particularly one that is currentless. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent claims, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims. Advantages of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to an actuator device, in particular a magnetic actuator device, with an armature unit comprising at least one armature element mounted for at least linear movement, which is provided for at least one interaction with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator comprising the actuator device, and comprising at least one actuating element mounted for at least linear movement, in particular rod-like, which is preferably provided in at least one operating mode for transmitting an actuating movement generated by the armature element.

[0005] It is proposed that the actuating element and the armature element be mounted so that they are translationally movable relative to each other, particularly in at least one actuation direction of the actuator device. This allows advantageous force characteristics, especially force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, particularly without current. Advantageously, new force characteristic curves can be provided for the actuating elements of magnetic actuators. For example, it is advantageous to provide currentless force characteristics, especially force-displacement characteristics, for actuating elements of magnetic actuators that are constant or increasing over a large stroke range.

[0006] In this context, an "actuator device" shall be understood to mean at least a part, in particular a subassembly, of an actuator, especially a magnetic actuator. Advantageously, the actuator device is intended for use in an application that allows external tension or pressure on the actuating element. In particular, in this application, the actuating element should be able to deflect significantly in response to the tension or pressure, while simultaneously the armature element operatively connected to the actuating element remains undejected. Furthermore, in this application, the actuating element should be able to automatically return to an undejected home position when the external tension or pressure is removed. In particular, in this application, a function comparable to a self-returning ratchet tongue should be implemented for the actuating element (hereinafter also referred to as the ratchet function or "reclamp function").In this case, the actuating element is in particular the tongue or at least part of the tongue of the ratchet. Specifically, an armature unit of a magnetic actuator with the ratchet function / reclamp function moves to a preferred fixed position after a deflection without current being applied. The armature unit, in particular at least the armature element, is configured to move within an actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator, for example, one or more magnetic coils of the magnetic actuator. In particular, the armature unit consists at least partially of a ferromagnetic material and / or comprises a permanent magnet. The armature element can, for example, comprise at least one ferromagnetic disk or be designed as one or more ferromagnetic disks. In particular, the actuating element is designed as a rod. The actuating element can form a guide rod for the armature element. In particular, the armature element encompasses the actuating element in the circumferential direction.The actuating element can be made of a non-ferromagnetic material, in particular a non-magnetic material.

[0007] In particular, the actuating element, especially in a direction parallel to a planned actuating direction of the actuating element and / or armature element, is significantly longer, preferably at least three times longer, more preferably at least five times longer, and most preferably at least ten times longer, than the armature element. In particular, the actuating direction of the actuator device is parallel to a main extension direction of the actuating element and / or to an axial direction of the, in particular disc-shaped, armature element. In particular, the armature element is arranged completely within the magnetic actuator. In particular, the actuating element projects partially out of the magnetic actuator. In particular, the actuating element can be configured for an embodiment of an actuating function for which the magnetic actuator is provided. In particular, the actuating element is mounted for linear movement at least parallel to its main extension direction.The term "principal extension direction" of an object is understood to mean, in particular, a direction that runs parallel to the longest edge of the smallest geometric cuboid that just completely encloses the object. Specifically, the rod-like adjusting element has an extension parallel to its principal extension direction that is at least three times, preferably at least five times, and preferably at least ten times greater than an extension of the rod-like adjusting element in any direction perpendicular to the principal extension direction of the adjusting element. In particular, the adjusting element is mounted translationally within a recess of the anchor element (and vice versa). In particular, the adjusting element is mounted longitudinally movable within the recess of the anchor element in the adjusting direction (and vice versa).The terms "configured" or "intended" are to be understood in particular as specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended or configured for a specific function is to be understood in particular as the object fulfilling and / or executing this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0008] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuating element and the armature element be mounted in such a way that the resistance to pulling or pushing the actuating element out in the actuating direction is at least constant or continuously increasing, preferably at least linearly continuously increasing, for at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of the total stroke of the armature unit. This allows advantageous force characteristics, especially force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, particularly without current flow. Advantageously, this enables new applications of the magnetic actuator. In particular, the armature element is movable between two stops within the magnetic actuator. The distance between the two stops can be considered the total stroke.Alternatively, in addition to the distance between the two stops, the maximum deflection of the actuating element relative to the anchor element could be added to the total stroke. In particular, the resistance to pulling or pushing out the actuating element in the actuating direction is significantly lower in a further region adjoining the region with constant or increasing resistance, in particular at least three times lower, preferably at least five times lower, and preferably at least ten times lower than the lowest resistance in the region with constant or increasing resistance. In particular, this further region comprises at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, and most preferably at least 50% of the total stroke of the anchor unit.In particular, the anchor element is movable by a distance relative to the actuating element which is at least half as large, preferably at least as large and preferably larger than a maximum extension of the anchor element in the actuating direction in the mounted state of the anchor element.

[0009] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuator device includes a spring element supported on the armature element and the actuating element. This allows advantageous force characteristics, particularly force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for the actuating elements of magnetic actuators, especially when the actuator is de-energized. Advantageously, the spring element can compensate for a decreasing holding force when the actuating element is actuated, which secures the armature unit in the magnetic actuator when de-energized, so that the resistance to pulling or pushing out the actuating element cannot decrease when the actuating element is actuated. In particular, the spring element is supported on the armature element and the actuating element in such a way that when the spring element is tensioned, the armature element and the actuating element are pushed away from each other.Alternatively, the spring element could also be supported on the anchor element and the actuating element in such a way that, when the spring element is tensioned, the anchor element and the actuating element are drawn towards each other. In particular, the anchor element has a spring element support surface via which the spring element is supported on the anchor element. Specifically, the spring element support surface is arranged on an axial surface of the anchor element. A normal vector of the axial surface of the anchor element runs at least substantially parallel to the axial direction of the anchor element and / or to the actuating direction. In particular, different longitudinal ends of the spring element, preferably pointing away from each other, are supported once on the anchor element and once on the actuating element.

[0010] It is further proposed that the actuating element has at least one radially extended support projection for supporting one longitudinal end of the spring element. This advantageously allows for a simple and / or compact design. In particular, the spring element is supported on the actuating element in a central region. The support projection is specifically located in a region of the actuating element that is more than 10% of the total longitudinal extent of the actuating element away from one of its longitudinal ends. Alternatively, the spring element is not supported at one of the longitudinal ends of the actuating element. The support projection can extend circumferentially around the actuating element. The support projection can alternatively be one of several support projections arranged along the circumference of the actuating element, which jointly support the spring element but are spatially separated from one another.It is conceivable that the position of the support projection along the longitudinal extent of the actuating element is adjustable and / or changeable. The support projection can be formed integrally, particularly monolithically, with the actuating element or be mounted to the actuating element. The support projection is arranged on an outer circumference, particularly on a cylindrical surface, of the actuating element. The actuating element can have a cylindrical shape with a round or oval cross-section. Alternatively, the actuating element can also have a polygonal shape with a polygonal cross-section. Preferably, the actuating element is uniform in shape at least over a large part of its longitudinal extent. As an alternative to supporting the spring element on the armature element, the spring element could also be supported at the opposite end of a stroke in which the armature element is guided, e.g., on a magnetic core of the actuator device.Furthermore, the spring element could also be designed as a spring assembly comprising a plurality of individual springs.

[0011] Furthermore, alternatively or additionally to the spring element, a cone geometry could be provided, which is intended to influence a force curve of the armature unit when the armature element detaches from the magnetic core and thus achieve the constant or steadily increasing resistance force when pulling out or pushing out the actuating element in the actuating direction over a significant part of the total stroke.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spring element is designed to return the actuator to a basic relative position between the armature and actuator elements when deflected relative to the armature element. This advantageously enables an automatic return function for the actuator element, which in particular has a constant or continuously increasing resistance force characteristic. A reclamp function for the magnetic actuator can advantageously be obtained. In particular, the spring element assumes a minimally tensioned operating state in the basic relative position between the armature and actuator elements. It is also conceivable that the spring element is completely relaxed in the basic relative position between the armature and actuator elements. In particular, a force must be exerted against the spring element during a translational displacement of the armature and actuator elements relative to each other.In particular, the spring element fulfills a restoring function, with which the actuating element is reset after a deflection relative to the anchor element, especially to the basic relative position.

[0013] In this context, it is proposed that the spring element be supported on the armature element and the actuator element in such a way that a relative translational movement of the armature element and the actuator element causes the spring element to be tensioned or relaxed. This advantageously generates an automatic return function for the actuator element, which in particular has a constant or continuously increasing resistance force characteristic. Advantageously, a reclamp function can be obtained for the magnetic actuator. Specifically, the relative translational movement of the armature element and the actuator element causes the spring element to be compressed. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that the relative translational movement of the armature element and the actuator element causes the spring element to be extended.In particular, the spring element can be tensioned by externally pulling on the actuator or by externally pushing on the actuator.

[0014] If the spring element encompasses at least a section of the actuating element, preferably completely, a particularly compact design and / or a particularly uniform distribution of tensile or compressive forces on the spring element can be advantageously achieved. In particular, the spring element encompasses a section of the actuating element that is larger than the section of the actuating element encompassed by the anchor element. Specifically, in the assembled state, the actuating element is arranged in an axial recess / opening of the spring element.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spring element be arranged at least to a large extent, preferably completely, above or below the anchor element in the actuating direction and / or in the longitudinal direction of the actuating element and / or in the axial direction of the anchor element. This allows for an advantageous design.

[0016] Furthermore, if the spring element is designed as a tension spring or as a compression spring, in particular a spiral compression spring or a spiral tension spring, a particularly simple construction can be advantageously achieved.

[0017] Furthermore, it is proposed that the armature element incorporates a permanent magnet. This advantageously enables at least a unstable magnetic actuator. Advantageously, it allows for the current-free fixing of a rest position in a quiescent operating state or in an actuated position of the armature unit. In particular, the permanent magnet is polarized in the actuating direction and / or in the axial direction of the armature element. The permanent magnet is specifically disk-shaped. In particular, the permanent magnet completely surrounds a section of the actuating element. The permanent magnet is specifically arranged between two disks, preferably ferromagnetic disks, of the armature element.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, it is proposed that the actuator device comprises a magnetic core unit with at least one magnetic core, mounted immovably, particularly within the magnetic actuator, which has one, and preferably another, permanent magnet. This advantageously allows for the achievement of at least a non-unstable magnetic actuator. Advantageously, it enables the fixing of a rest position in a quiescent operating state or a positioning position of the armature unit without the need for current. It is conceivable that the permanent magnet of the magnetic core unit is provided in addition to the permanent magnet of the armature element. Preferably, if a permanent magnet is present in the magnetic core unit, the armature element, and in particular the entire armature unit, is designed without permanent magnets. The positioning element is designed without permanent magnets. The magnetic core is preferably made of a ferromagnetic material.Examples of ferromagnetic materials, such as iron or ferromagnetic steel, are known to those skilled in the art.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spring element be configured to generate a spring force upon actuation, particularly upon tensioning, which counteracts a magnetic holding force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic core of the actuator device. This allows advantageous force characteristics, particularly force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for the actuating elements of magnetic actuators, especially without current. In particular, the force required to tension the spring element is smaller, preferably significantly smaller, than the (currentless) magnetic holding force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic core of the actuator device. Specifically, the movement of the actuating element exerts a force on the spring element, causing the spring force (tensioning force or extensional force) generated by the spring element to increase depending on the deflection / compression of the spring element.Only when the spring force of the spring element exceeds the magnetic holding force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic core is the armature element released from the magnetic core, particularly by the spring element releasing. Advantageously, this occurs only after the actuating element has completed a significant portion of the armature unit's total stroke while continuously tensioning the spring element. Alternatively, the spring element can be designed such that, before the spring force exceeds the magnetic holding force, it is compressed or extended to its block length. In this case, the armature element is released from the magnetic core upon further increasing the force after reaching this block length.

[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spring force of the spring element generated when the actuating element is deflected relative to a stationary armature element, particularly one resting against a magnetic core of the actuator device, is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of a maximum possible relative stroke between the actuating element and the armature element, and in particular of a total stroke of the actuating element, smaller than the magnetic holding force. This allows advantageous force characteristics, especially force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, particularly without current. Advantageously, for example, current-free force characteristics, especially force-displacement characteristics, can be provided for actuating elements of magnetic actuators that are constant or increasing over a large stroke range. Advantageously, a reclamp function can be obtained for the magnetic actuator.The maximum possible relative stroke between the actuating element and the anchor element is preferably defined by a block length of the spring element. In particular, the maximum possible relative stroke between the actuating element and the anchor element corresponds to a maximum change in length that the spring element can undergo without damage, and thus also to the maximum relative movement between the actuating element and the anchor element.

[0021] Additionally, it is proposed that the spring element be designed such that, when the actuating element is deflected relative to the stationary armature element (particularly the armature element resting against a magnetic core of the actuator device), the spring force of the spring element exceeds the magnetic holding force at a point in the relative stroke between the actuating element and the armature element. This point differs from the rest position between the actuating element and the armature element and also differs from the maximum possible relative stroke between the actuating element and the armature element. This allows for advantageous force characteristics, particularly force-displacement characteristics, for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, especially without current flow. Advantageously, the reclamp function of the magnetic actuator can be retained.In particular, the point at which the spring force exceeds the magnetic holding force is located more than 20%, preferably more than 30%, preferably more than 40% and most preferably more than 50% of the maximum possible relative stroke from the rest relative position.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuating element has an end stop for the armature element, which is arranged on a side of the armature element facing away from the spring element. This advantageously allows the actuating element to be guided along when the armature element is actuated. Advantageously, in addition to the Reclamp function, a controllable actuating function for the actuating element can be obtained. In particular, the end stop is designed to guide the actuating element along with the armature element during a movement of the armature element, especially in a direction facing away from the spring element, generated, for example, by an interaction with the actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator. The end stop is designed, in particular, as a radially extended projection of the actuating element. Specifically, the end stop is arranged in a central region of the actuating element.In particular, the end stop is arranged in a region of the actuating element that is located more than 10% of the total longitudinal extent of the actuating element from one of its longitudinal ends. The end stop can extend circumferentially around the actuating element. Alternatively, the end stop can be one of several interacting projections arranged along the circumference of the actuating element. The end stop can be formed integrally, particularly monolithically, with the actuating element or be mounted to it. The end stop is located on the outer circumference, particularly on the cylindrical surface, of the actuating element.

[0023] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuator device comprises a coil unit for generating the actuator magnetic field at least once, and / or that the coil unit comprises at least two magnetic coils, each arranged on different, and in particular, mutually facing, sides of the armature element. Advantageously, in addition to the Reclamp function, a controllable positioning function for the positioning element can be provided. In particular, the coil unit comprises at least one magnetic coil, preferably at least two magnetic coils. Preferably, one magnetic coil of the coil unit is arranged on each side of the armature element. Preferably, one magnetic coil of the coil unit is arranged at each end region of the total stroke. In particular, the magnetic coils are electrically controllable. In particular, the magnetic coils completely surround the positioning element.In particular, one of the magnetic coils is arranged above the armature element in the direction of adjustment, while the other magnetic coil is arranged below the armature element in the direction of adjustment.

[0024] It is conceivable that the magnetic coils are electrically connected in series or parallel. However, if the two magnetic coils are separately controllable, particularly energized, and electrically connected, a high degree of control over the movement of the armature unit can be advantageously achieved. In particular, this allows, for example, when initiating movement of the armature unit, the first magnetic coil to be used to push the armature element while the second magnetic coil is used to pull the armature element. Furthermore, this can reduce the impact force of the armature element and / or noise generation. Specifically, at the moment shortly before the armature element impacts, e.g., onto the magnetic core, i.e., shortly before the end of the armature unit's movement, the pushing magnetic coil, e.g., the first magnetic coil, can be switched off, and the pulling magnetic coil, e.g., the second magnetic coil, can be switched on.the second magnetic coil, must be reversed.

[0025] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuator device comprises at least one magnetic core unit, wherein the actuating element is guided translationally within at least one magnetic core of the magnetic core unit, and / or wherein the armature element, in its resting state (particularly when de-energized), is in contact with a magnetic core of the magnetic core unit. This allows for an advantageous design. In particular, the magnetic holding force acts on the armature element in the resting state.

[0026] Furthermore, a magnetic actuator, in particular an electromagnet, preferably for an electromechanical brake and / or an electromechanical clutch, is proposed, along with the actuator device and / or a method for operating the actuator device. This allows advantageous force characteristics, particularly force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for the actuating elements of magnetic actuators, especially without current. Advantageously, new force characteristic curves can be provided for the actuating elements of the magnetic actuators. For example, it is advantageous to provide current-free force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, for actuating elements of magnetic actuators that are constant or increasing over a large stroke range. In particular, the actuating element can be designed for mechanical locking and / or detenting of the electromechanical brakes and / or clutches.

[0027] The actuator device, the magnetic actuator, and the method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the actuator device, the magnetic actuator, and the method according to the invention may, in order to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, and units than the number specified herein. Drawings

[0028] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0029] They show: Fig. 1a a schematic representation of a magnetic actuator with an actuator device comprising an actuating element, Fig. 1b a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator, where the actuating element is displaced, Fig. 1c a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator, where the actuating element is further displaced, Fig. 2a a schematic sectional view of the magnetic actuator with the actuator device and with an armature unit, Fig. 2b a schematic representation of the anchor unit with a spring element in a maximally relaxed state, Fig. 2c a schematic representation of the anchor unit with the spring element in a tensioned state, Fig. 3 an exemplary force-displacement diagram of the magnetic actuator, Fig. 4 a schematic flowchart of a procedure for operating the actuator device and Fig. 5 A schematic representation of the magnetic actuator with the actuator device and with the armature unit in a state deflected by an actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator. Description of the embodiment

[0030] The Fig. Figures 1a to 1c each schematically show a magnetic actuator 16. The magnetic actuator 16 forms an electromagnet. The magnetic actuator 16 has an actuator device 14. The magnetic actuator 16 forms part of an electromechanical brake. The magnetic actuator 16 includes a ratchet function / a reclamp function. The actuator device 14 includes an actuating element 18. The actuating element 18 is rod-shaped. The actuating element 18 is linearly movable within the magnetic actuator 16. Fig. 1a The actuator 18 is in a rest position. In the Fig. 1b The actuator 18 is pulled out of a housing 62 of the magnetic actuator 16 by a force 60. If the force 60 were now removed, the ratchet function / reclamp function would ensure that the actuator 18 automatically returns to its rest position. Fig. 1a returns. In the Fig. 1c the actuating element 18 is subjected to a further force 64, which is greater than the force 60 of the Fig. 1b, pulled out of the housing 62 of the magnetic actuator 16 (external force) or pushed out (internal force generated by an actuator magnetic field). If the additional force 64 was large enough that internal magnetic holding forces 42 (cf. Fig. 3) If the force exerted by the actuator device 14 has been overcome, then the actuating element 18 will not automatically return to its rest position when the additional force 64 is removed. In this case, an opposing external force or a corresponding opposing force generated internally by the actuator magnetic field is provided to return the actuating element 18 to its rest position.

[0031] The Fig. Figure 2a shows a schematic sectional view of the magnetic actuator 16 with the actuator device 14. The actuator device 14 forms a magnetic actuator device. The actuator device 14 has an armature unit 10. The armature unit 10 is movably mounted in the housing 62. The armature unit 10 comprises an armature element 12. The armature element 12 is designed to interact with the actuator magnetic field. The actuator device 14 has a coil unit 52. The coil unit 52 is designed to generate the actuator magnetic field. The coil unit 52 comprises a first magnetic coil 54. The coil unit 52 comprises a second magnetic coil 56. The magnetic coils 54 and 56 are arranged on opposite sides 50 and 58 of the armature element 12. The magnetic coils 54 and 56 are arranged on opposite sides 50 and 58 of the armature element 12. The magnetic actuator 16 forms a bistable magnetic actuator 16.The magnetic coils 54, 56 are designed to generate movement of the armature unit 10, in particular between two stable positions at the endpoints of a total stroke 24 of the armature unit 10. In the . Fig. 2a The armature unit 10 is in a first stable position of the bistable magnetic actuator 16. The armature unit 10 is translationally movable between the two endpoints of the total stroke 24. The actuating element 18 has an end stop 48 for the armature element 12. The end stop 48 is arranged on a side 50 of the armature element 12 pointing away from a spring element 26. During a movement generated by the actuator's magnetic field, the armature element 12 moves the actuating element 18 along with it via contact with the end stop 48 (see also the Fig. Figure 5 shows the armature unit 10 deflected by the actuator magnetic field in the direction of a second magnetic core 66 of the coil unit 52). The actuating element 18 is designed, in at least one operating mode of the magnetic actuator 16, to transmit an actuating movement generated by the armature element 12. The actuating movement can be generated by actuating the armature element 12 by means of the actuator magnetic field. The magnetic coils 54 and 56 each surround the actuating element 18. The magnetic coils 54 and 56 are each wound on coil receptacles 68 and 70.

[0032] The actuator device 14 has a magnetic core unit 36. The magnetic core unit 36 ​​comprises a first magnetic core 38. The first magnetic core 38 is associated with the first magnetic coil 54. The first magnetic core 38 is partially located within the coil center of the first magnetic coil 54. The magnetic core unit 36 ​​comprises a second magnetic core 66. The second magnetic core 66 is associated with the second magnetic coil 56. The second magnetic core 66 is partially located within the coil center of the second magnetic coil 56. The magnetic cores 38 and 66 are fixedly mounted in the magnetic actuator 16. The actuating element 18 is guided translationally within the first magnetic core 38. The actuating element 18 is guided translationally within the second magnetic core 66. The actuating element 18 penetrates the two magnetic cores 38, 66. The armature element 12 is designed to operate in a de-energized idle state (in the Fig. (2a shown) in contact with the first magnetic core 38 or the second magnetic core 66. In the de-energized rest state, the armature element 12 adheres to one of the two magnetic cores 38, 66 via the magnetic holding force 42. The magnetic cores 38, 66 each have stop projections 88 against which the armature element 12 contacts the respective magnetic core 38, 66 in the stable state. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the magnetic core(s) 38, 66 or the armature element 12 have anti-adhesion elements, which are intended, in particular, to prevent magnetic adhesion of the armature element 12 to the magnetic cores 38, 66. Such anti-adhesion elements (not shown) are made of a non-magnetic material and establish a certain minimum distance between the armature element 12 and the magnetic core 38, 66 in the end positions / the stable positions.

[0033] The actuating element 18 and the anchoring element 12 are mounted so that they are translationally movable relative to each other in at least one actuation direction 20 of the actuator device 14. The actuating element 18 and the anchoring element 12 are mounted so that the resistance force against the actuating element 18 being pulled out in actuation direction 20 is at least constant or continuously increasing over at least 20% of the total stroke 24 of the anchoring unit 10. The anchoring element 12 surrounds the actuating element 18. The actuating element 18 is guided translationally within a recess 72 of the anchoring element 12.

[0034] The actuator device 14 includes the spring element 26. The spring element 26 is designed as a compression spring. The spring element 26 is supported on the anchor element 12. The spring element 26 is supported on the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 encompasses a section of the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 is arranged completely above the anchor element 12 in the actuating direction 20. The actuating element 18 has a support projection 28 for supporting a longitudinal end 30 of the spring element 26. The support projection 28 extends radially relative to a longitudinal direction of the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 tends to return the actuating element 18 to a basic relative position 32 between the anchor element 12 and the actuating element 18 when deflected relative to the anchor element 12. Fig. Figure 2a shows the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 in the basic relative position 32. In the basic relative position 32, the spring element 26 is maximally relaxed. The spring element 26 is completely located within the first magnetic core 38 in the basic relative position 32. The spring element 26 is supported on the armature element 12 and on the actuating element 18 such that a relative translational movement of the armature element 12 and the actuating element 18 causes the spring element 26 to be tensioned or relaxed. The representation of the Fig. Figure 2a shows an embodiment in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by pulling on the adjusting element 18. A reverse embodiment, in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by pushing, is also conceivable. The illustration of the Fig. Figure 2a shows an embodiment in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by compression. A reverse embodiment, in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by expansion, is also conceivable. In the Fig. 2b and Fig. In 2c only the anchor unit 10 is shown, once with a maximally relaxed spring element 26 ( Fig. 2b) and once with a spring element 26 tensioned by a relative movement of actuating element 18 and anchor element 12 ( Fig. 2c).

[0035] The armature element 12 has a permanent magnet 34. Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable that the magnetic core 38, 66 has a permanent magnet 34' (dashed line in the Fig. 2a indicated). The spring element 26 is designed to exert a spring force 40 when actuated, in particular when clamping (cf. Fig. 3) to generate which counteracts the magnetic holding force 42 between the permanent magnet 34, 34' and the magnetic core 38 of the actuator device 14. The spring force 40 of the spring element 26 generated when the actuating element 18 is deflected relative to a stationary armature element 12 resting against the magnetic core 38 is smaller than the magnetic holding force 42 for at least 20% of a maximum possible relative stroke 44 between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, in particular of the total stroke 24 of the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 is designed such that when the actuating element 18 is deflected relative to the stationary armature element 12 resting against the magnetic core 38, the spring force 40 of the spring element 26 is at least 20% of a point in the relative stroke 44 between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 that differs from a rest relative position 46 (in the Fig. (2a shown) between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, which differs from the maximum possible relative stroke 44 between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, exceeding the magnetic holding force 42. The armature unit 10 has a guide bushing 90. The guide bushing 90 surrounds the actuating element 18. The guide bushing 90 is movably mounted along the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 is supported on the guide bushing 90. The armature element 12 is fixedly connected to the guide bushing 90. The permanent magnet 34 is fixedly connected to the guide bushing 90. The armature element 12 and the permanent magnet 34 are immovable relative to the guide bushing 90. When the actuating element 18 is moved along with the armature element 12, the guide bushing 90 contacts the end stop 48. The guide bushing 90 has a concave taper on its inner side facing the actuating element 18.

[0036] The Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary force-displacement diagram 22 of the magnetic actuator 16. The abscissa 74 of the force-displacement diagram 22 represents the stroke of the armature unit 10, in particular the actuating element 18, in millimeters. The ordinate 76 of the force-displacement diagram 22 represents the force in Newtons. The force-displacement diagram 22 also shows the magnetic holding force 42, in particular that of the permanent magnet 34. The magnetic holding force 42 decreases rapidly and significantly as the armature unit 10, in particular the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, is moved away from its rest position on the magnetic core 38. Therefore, a reclamp function cannot be achieved solely by the magnetic holding force 42. The armature unit 10, consisting of the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, would not return to its rest position on its own even at a slight distance from the rest position. In the force-displacement diagram 22, a curve of the spring force 40 is also shown.The spring force 40 increases linearly with each deflection of the actuating element 18 relative to the armature element 12. At a point where the spring force 40 exceeds the magnetic holding force 42 of the armature element 12, or when the spring element 26 reaches a certain length, the armature element 12 detaches from the magnetic core 38, thus moving away from its rest position, and the spring element 26 relaxes again. However, up to this point, there is a large stroke range in which the actuating element 18 can be moved with a resistance force corresponding to the spring force 40 without the armature element 12 moving from its rest position. In this range, the spring force 40 would cause the actuating element 18 to return to its rest position if, for example, it were released. Beyond this range, no automatic return would occur.

[0037] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a procedure for operating the actuator device 14. Initially, the anchor unit 10 is located in the Fig. 2a shown rest position. The armature element 12 is fixed to the magnetic core 38 by the magnetic holding force 42. In at least one process step 78, a (in the Fig. 2a A downward-acting external tensile force is exerted on the actuating element 18. This external tensile force causes the actuating element 18, with its support projection 28, to move relative to the anchor element 12 in the direction of the anchor element 12, while the anchor element 12 remains stationary due to the magnetic holding force 42. In at least one further process step 80, the tensile force compresses and tensions the spring element 26. This generates the spring force 40. The support projection 28 of the actuating element 18 moves towards the anchor element 12. When the tensile force is removed in a further process step 82, the actuating element 18 automatically returns to its rest position due to the spring force 40.If, instead, in an alternative process step 84, the tensile force is further increased, the spring force 40 exceeds the magnetic holding force 42, or the spring element 26 reaches its limit, so that the magnetic adhesion of the armature element 12 to the magnetic core 38 is released and the entire armature unit 10 moves in the direction of the tensile force. This movement is limited by the size of a displacement between the magnetic cores 38 and 66. During the movement of the armature unit 10, the spring element 26 relaxes, and the armature element 12 and the actuating element 18 return to their rest relative position 46. If, instead, in an alternative process step 86 to process step 80, the actuator magnetic field is activated via the coil unit 52, the armature element 12 is deflected from its rest position by the actuator magnetic field.The armature element 12 moves towards the opposite magnetic core 66 and, via contact with the end stop 48 of the actuating element 18, guides the actuating element 18 along with it.

[0038] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator 16 with the actuator device 14 and with the armature unit 10 in a state deflected by the actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator 16. In the Fig. 5 the armature unit 10 is located in a second stable position of the bistable magnetic actuator 16, which differs from the first stable position. Reference sign 10 anchor units 12 anchor elements 14 Actuator device 16 Magnetic actuator 18 Actuating element 20 Direction of rotation 22 Force-Displacement Diagram 24 Total lift 26 spring element 28 Support projection 30 Long end 32 Basic relative position 34 permanent magnet 36 magnetic core unit 38 magnetic core 40 spring force 42 magnetic holding force 44 Maximum possible relative stroke 46 Resting relative position 48 End stop Page 50 52 coil units 54 Magnetic coil 56 Magnetic coil Page 58 60 force 62 cases 64 force 66 magnetic core 68 Coil holder 70 spool holder 72 Exclusion 74 Abscissa 76 ordinates 78th process step 80th process step 82nd process step 84th process step 86th process step 88 lead 90 Guide bushing

Claims

[1] Actuator device (14), in particular a magnetic actuator device, with an armature unit (10), comprising at least one armature element (12) which is mounted at least linearly movable and which is provided at least for interaction with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator (16) having the actuator device (14), and comprising at least one actuating element (18) which is mounted at least linearly movable, in particular rod-like, and which is preferably provided in at least one operating mode for transmitting an actuating movement generated by the armature element (12), characterized by that the actuating element (18) and the anchor element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another, in particular in at least one actuating direction (20) of the actuator device (14). [2] Actuator device (14) according to claim 1, characterized byin that the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another in such a way that a resistance force against pulling out or pushing out of the actuating element (18) in the actuating direction (20) is at least constant or continuously increasing, preferably at least substantially linearly continuously increasing, for at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40% and particularly preferably at least 50% of a total stroke (24) of the armature unit (10). [3] Actuator device (14) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a spring element (26) which is supported on the anchor element (12) and on the actuating element (18). [4] Actuator device (14) according to claim 3, characterized by that the adjusting element (18) has at least one radially extending support projection (28) for supporting a longitudinal end (30) of the spring element (26). [5] Actuator device (14) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized bythat the spring element (26) strives to return the actuating element (18) to a basic relative position (32) between the anchor element (12) and the actuating element (18) when deflected relative to the anchor element (12). [6] Actuator device (14) according to claim 5, characterized by that the spring element (26) is supported on the anchor element (12) and on the adjusting element (18) in such a way that a mutually translational movement of the anchor element (12) and the adjusting element (18) produces a tensioning or a relaxing of the spring element (26). [7] Actuator device (14) according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized by that the spring element (26) encompasses at least a portion of the actuating element (18). [8] Actuator device (14) according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized by that the spring element (26) is arranged at least to a large extent, preferably completely, above or below the anchor element (12) in the adjustment direction (20). [9] Actuator device (14) according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized by that the spring element (26) is designed as a tension spring or as a compression spring. [10] Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the armature element (12) has a permanent magnet (34). [11] Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a magnetic core unit (36) with at least one immovably mounted magnetic core (38) which has a permanent magnet (34'). [12] Actuator device (14) according to claim 3 and according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized by that the spring element (26) is designed to generate a spring force (40) upon actuation, in particular upon tensioning, which counteracts a magnetic holding force (42) between the permanent magnet (34, 34') and a magnetic core (38) of the actuator device (14). [13] Actuator device (14) according to claim 12, characterized by that the spring force (40) of the spring element (26) generated when the actuating element (18) is deflected relative to a stationary armature element (12), in particular one resting against a magnetic core (38) of the actuator device (14), is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40% and particularly preferably at least 50% of a maximum possible relative stroke (44) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12), in particular of a total stroke of the actuating element (18), smaller than the magnet holding force (42). [14] Actuator device (14) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized bythat the spring element (26) is designed such that when the actuating element (18) is deflected relative to the stationary armature element (12), in particular one resting against a magnetic core (38) of the actuator device (14), a spring force (40) of the spring element (26) exceeds the magnetic holding force (42) at a point of the relative stroke (44) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12), which point is different from a rest relative position (46) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) and which point is different from the maximum possible relative stroke (44) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12). [15] Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the adjusting element (18) has an end stop (48) for the anchor element (12), which is arranged on a side (50) of the anchor element (12) facing away from the spring element (26). [16] Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a coil unit (52) at least for generating the actuator magnetic field. [17] Actuator device (14) according to claim 16, characterized by that the coil unit (52) has at least two magnetic coils (54, 56), which are each arranged on different, in particular mutually facing, sides (50, 58) of the armature element (12). [18] Actuator device (14) according to claim 17, characterized by that the two magnetic coils (54, 56) can be controlled separately, in particular energized, and are contacted. [19] Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one magnetic core unit (36), wherein the actuating element (18) is guided in at least one magnetic core (38) of the magnetic core unit (36) in a translationally movable manner and / or wherein the armature element (12) in a rest operating state, in particular a currentless operating state, rests in contact with a magnetic core (38) of the magnetic core unit (36). [20] Magnetic actuator (16), in particular an electromagnet, preferably for an electromechanical brake and / or an electromechanical clutch, with an actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims. [21] Method for operating an actuator device (14), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 19, with an armature unit (10), comprising at least one armature element (12) mounted at least linearly movable, which interacts with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator (16) having the actuator device (14), and comprising at least one actuating element (18) mounted at least linearly movable, in particular rod-like, which preferably transmits an actuating movement generated by the armature element (12) in at least one operating mode, characterized by that the actuating element (18) and the anchor element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another, in particular in at least one actuating direction (20) of the actuator device (14).

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