Improved speed sensor ring

Abstract

The invention relates to a signal generator device (3) having a magnetic interaction surface (10) that can be scanned by a sensor. A first group of parts (6) comprising a first material and a second group of parts (9) comprising a second material are arranged alternately along the magnetic interaction surface (10). The first material and the second material have different magnetic behavior. The parts (6) from the first group of parts and the parts (9) from the second group of parts are non-positively connected to one another, wherein at least the parts (6, 9) from the first group of parts and / or from the second group of parts are designed and configured such that only a fraction of the adjacent surfaces (11, 13) of adjacent parts (6, 9) are non-positively connected to one another.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a signal generator device having a magnetic interaction surface which can be scanned by a sensor, wherein a first group of parts comprising a first material and a second group of parts comprising a second material are arranged alternately on one another along the magnetic interaction surface, wherein the first material and the second material have different magnetic behavior, wherein the parts from the first group of parts and the parts from the second group of parts are connected to one another in a force-fitting manner.

[0002] The invention also relates to a signal generator arrangement comprising a sensor device and a signal generator device.

[0003] Signal transducer devices, sometimes referred to as speed sensor rings, frequency sensor rings, or pulse sensor rings, are commonly used in a variety of technical devices. For example, they are used to determine the speed and sometimes also the position of a rotating device relative to a stationary (main) part of a machine.

[0004] An example of this is the shaft of a hydraulic pump or motor. Other examples include a vehicle's rotational axis (to which the wheels are attached) or the crankshaft of an internal combustion engine.

[0005] Due to the widespread and frequent use of such signaling devices, a wide variety of signaling devices are known in the prior art, all of which function reasonably well.

[0006] To name just a few examples of designs that are known in the state of the art: DE 10 2015 117 498 A1 discloses a signaling device comprising a first material and a second material. The first material and the second material exhibit different magnetic behavior. The first material and the second material are arranged such that the resulting magnetic behavior of the signaling device varies across a magnetic interaction surface of the signaling device. The signaling device is further configured such that the magnetic interaction surface has a substantially smooth surface, in particular with respect to the standard direction of movement of the magnetic interaction surface.

[0007] DE 42 30 043 A1 describes an impulse ring with a rotation sensor. The impulse ring has an annular section with magnetic or ferromagnetic teeth that are magnetically scanned. The gaps between the teeth are filled with a magnetically neutral material to create a smooth outer surface. The teeth are molded in one piece with the support part of the ring, which is then coated with the magnetically neutral material, resulting in a cylindrical outer edge on the support part that serves to attach the impulse ring to the vehicle wheel. In this way, the smooth outer surface prevents the adhesion of dirt, which would impair the function of the impulse ring.

[0008] DE 195 13 669 A1 discloses a hydrostatic pump or a hydrostatic motor having an output or drive shaft mounted in a housing and connected to a measuring ring rotatably about an axis, which rotates in a housing interior filled with a hydraulic medium or lubricating oil. The surface contour of the measuring ring is designed such that, viewed in cross-section, it has the same radial extent over its entire circumference. The measuring ring consists of a metal encased in a sprayed-on polymer, or of the polymer, with gaps at regular intervals into which a metal is inserted.

[0009] DE 10 2009 053 916 A1 proposes a device comprising a sensor disk with a disk element and signal elements arranged on an outer circumferential surface of the disk element. The disk element is made of plastic by injection molding, and the signal elements are made of metal or plastic. The signal elements are partially surrounded by the plastic of the disk element, wherein the plastic of the disk element and the signal elements is selected from a group consisting of polyamide, polypropylene, polyethylene, and / or fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0010] It's undisputed that these sensor rings work quite well in practice and offer certain advantages. However, the challenge always remains to find a good compromise between simple and inexpensive manufacturing on the one hand, and a reliable and durable design of the respective sensor ring on the other.

[0011] It is therefore the object of the invention to propose a signaling device having a magnetic interaction surface that can be scanned by a sensor and that is improved over the signaling devices known in the prior art. In particular, its production should be cost-effective without significantly compromising its reliability and service life.

[0012] A signaling device according to claim 1 solves this problem.

[0013] It is proposed to design a signal generator device which has a magnetic interaction surface which can be scanned by a sensor, wherein a first group of parts comprising a first material and a second group of parts comprising a second material are arranged alternately along the magnetic interaction surface, wherein the first material and the second material have different magnetic behavior, wherein the parts of the first group of parts and the parts of the second group of parts are non-positively connected to one another, which is characterized in that at least the parts from the first group of parts and / or from the second group of parts are designed and configured such that only a fraction of the adjacent surfaces of adjacent parts are non-positively connected to one another.

[0014] When one speaks of the parts being arranged alternately on one another, this is typically understood to mean that, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the magnetic interaction surface, a part from the first group of parts is followed by a part from the second group of parts, which in turn is followed by a part from the first group of parts, and so on. The alternating arrangement can also be regarded as a type of rack and pinion arrangement. As a rule, (only) two groups of parts are preferably used for the magnetic interaction surface (i.e., “first material - second material - first material - second material - first material - etc.”). However, it is possible to arrange sections of a different (third) material in essentially any desired position, even between a part from the first group of parts and a part from the second group of parts.Possible arrangements would therefore be (without limitation): "first material - second material - third material - first material - second material - third material - first material - etc."; "first material - third material - second material - third material - first material - etc."; or similar. The third (or further) group of parts may be parts that are substantially similar to the parts from the first and / or second group of parts. However, the third group of parts / material (or more) may also serve a different purpose. A third material may, for example, be a glue or an adhesive to assist / enhance the frictional connection between at least some of the parts from the first and / or second group of parts.In this context, it should be noted that the parts from the third group of parts / a third material can also be considered not to constitute a different group of parts (which means that such an embodiment with glue / adhesive can fall under the above-mentioned preferred possibility of using (only) two groups of parts for the magnetic interaction surface, to name just one example). Furthermore, it should be noted that additional / different materials can be used for sections of the signaling device that differ from the magnetic interaction surface.For example, if the signaling device has a wheel-like shape, the support structure between an axle bearing and the magnetic interaction surface may be made of a material that is different from both the first and the second material (of course, it is possible that these parts also comprise the first and / or the second material).

[0015] For the magnetic interaction surface to function, it is generally necessary for the first material and the second material to differ in terms of their magnetic behavior. In particular, the first material and / or the second material should induce a different signal in the sensor (whereby it is sufficient that a sensor signal is generated when switching from the first material to the second material and vice versa). The magnetic behavior of the parts from the first group of parts and the parts from the second group of parts (and even more groups) can vary in various ways. For example, different magnetic behavior is conceivable in relation to the underlying physical effect of the respective material.To clarify this, the first material can be a non-magnetic material, a paramagnetic material, or a diamagnetic material, while the second material can be a ferromagnetic material. However, other combinations are also possible. In particular, with ferromagnetic materials, a distinction can be made between hard magnetic materials (which may have permanent magnetism per se and / or may not have permanent magnetism per se) and soft magnetic materials. Due to the limited magnetic effect of paramagnetic and diamagnetic materials, both can be considered (essentially) non-magnetic materials (particularly within the scope of the present application and / or invention). A further distinction between different magnetic behaviors can be made based on the strength of the respective effect.For example, both the first and second materials may be magnetic materials, with the first material being a soft magnetic material and the second material being a hard magnetic material (or the like). It is even possible for the first and second materials to be taken from the group that has the same "underlying physical effect" while differing in the "strength of the respective effect." For example, both the first and second materials may be soft magnetic materials. However, it is possible for the first material to have a lower (relative) magnetic susceptibility than the second material (or vice versa). Furthermore, it should be noted that the "first material" and the "second material" should not only be understood in the sense that different "pure" substances / materials are used.Of course, it is possible that one or both of the materials involved are composite materials comprising a mixture of different materials (e.g., an alloy, a ceramic substance, or a plastic material containing small particles of a ferromagnetic material). It is even possible that the first material and the second material are to be understood as a mixture of the same components, but the ratio of the various components is different. The "resulting magnetic behavior" can be understood in particular as the "combined magnetic effect" at a specific location relative to the signaling device, in particular relative to the magnetic interaction surface.Typically, this specific location is a position where the sensor (in particular the magnetic sensor) is typically arranged when the signaling device is deployed in its intended place in a more complex machine (including the respective sensor). It should be noted that the specific position (i.e. where the sensor is typically arranged) usually moves relative to the signaling device (more precisely: the signaling device typically moves relative to the specific position; in particular, to the position where the sensor is arranged). The specific position at which the measurement is taken (in particular the position of the sensor) is typically considered with respect to a reference frame of a more complex machine in which the signaling device is deployed. In this reference frame, the specific position (of the sensor) is at rest.For example, when the signaling device (and usually also the sensor) is deployed in a vehicle, the vehicle's reference frame is typically moving relative to a factory building. Therefore, both the vehicle's signaling device and the sensor are typically moving relative to a factory building, while the sensor remains stationary relative to the vehicle body. Furthermore, the resulting magnetic behavior of the signaling device can vary in any conceivable way. Not only an (absolute) value such as the magnetic susceptibility and / or the (absolute) strength of a permanent magnetic field can vary, but also, additionally and / or alternatively, a direction of the susceptibility, a direction of a permanent magnetic field, and so on.In particular, it should be noted that the parts from the first group of parts and the parts from the second group of parts may differ to a certain extent within the group, but may also preferably be (highly) similar and / or (essentially) identical. This may relate to the respective size, external shape, magnetic behavior and / or material composition. Therefore, certain, typically small variations in composition are permitted, even within the same group of parts. The crucial distinction between the first and second groups of parts is usually that they can be clearly distinguished from one another, in particular by a sensor placed close to the magnetic interaction surface, when the signaling device is used as intended.Furthermore, it should be noted that the term "comprises a material" can (preferably) mean that the respective part consists (essentially) of the respective material. However, it is entirely permissible for a filler material or the like to be used to a certain extent in combination with at least the first and / or the second material, wherein the ratio of filler material to the first and / or second material in the respective group can change at least to some extent. Just for the sake of completeness, it should be noted that although it is possible for even more groups of parts to be used, it is generally preferred if exactly two groups of parts are used in the signal generator device proposed here.

[0016] The parts from the first group of parts and the parts from the second group of parts are connected to each other by a force-locking connection. It should be noted that this does not exclude the presence of an "intermediate material," which would mean that the parts from the first group of parts and / or the parts from the second group of parts can be connected to the respective "intermediate material," in particular by a force-locking connection. The generalization in this sense is obvious to the person skilled in the art. Furthermore, it should be noted that the force-locking connection does not exclude the use of further joining techniques, such as a positive connection and / or a positive connection "in addition" to the existing force-locking connection (where the glue / adhesive of the positive connection may or may not be considered a third material, as previously described). However, a force-locking connection may usually be sufficient.Furthermore, the frictional connection can be a type of "basic connection", so that - as an example - a positive connection can be provided with a certain amount of play, so that the positive connection mainly plays a role as a fallback position and / or in the event that very high revolutions per minute occur or the like, while the frictional connection proposed here at least prevents the corresponding parts from becoming loose when stationary or the like.

[0017] In this case, it is proposed to design the frictional connection such that only a fraction of the adjacent surfaces of the adjacent parts are connected to each other. Until now, the entire area of ​​the adjacent surfaces has generally been used for a frictional connection. The underlying idea was obviously to create a particularly strong connection. However, it has been found that for most applications, it is sufficient if only a fraction of the respective surfaces create the frictional connection. This fraction can be chosen from an interval between 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30% (lower limit) to 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% (upper limit) of the total size of the respective area.It is acknowledged that certain combinations of upper and lower limits do not make sense and should be omitted, which is obvious to the skilled person.

[0018] However, using only a fraction of the size (area) of the respective surfaces can actually simplify the manufacturing process considerably. In particular, according to the present proposal, the respective contact surfaces can be dimensioned such that the respective parts / surfaces / sections used to create the frictional connection must be deformed when the parts are joined. This deformation can be utilized to create a particularly advantageous frictional connection.

[0019] Furthermore, it is possible for only one part of the two adjacent parts to exhibit a certain deformation to create such a force-locking connection. However, it is also possible for both parts of the two adjacent parts to exhibit a corresponding surface deformation to create a force-locking connection.

[0020] In particular, it is proposed that the signal generator device is designed and configured such that the parts from the first group of parts and / or the parts from the second group of parts have at least one protruding surface section, preferably at least one web-like protruding surface section, in particular to bring about the aforementioned non-positive connection. Consequently, it is possible for the opposite, corresponding adjacent surface (section) to be (essentially) flat. This can relate in particular to the surroundings of the area in which contact is made between the adjacent parts in order to establish the non-positive connection. However, it is also possible for the two adjacent surfaces to have a projection (web-like projection) to establish the non-positive connection.Although it is preferred to use a web-like projection, other types of projections are also possible, such as knob-like projections and so on. The web-shaped projection can preferably be arranged in a direction that is (substantially) perpendicular (normal) to the direction of the force (motion-induced force) acting on the respective parts when the signaling device is used in the intended machine / at the intended location and in the intended manner. In the case of a wheel-shaped / circular signaling device, the respective web is therefore typically oriented in a substantially axial direction. The number of protruding surface portions (per individual total area, so to speak) is typically comparatively small and can vary between 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 (lower limit) and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 (upper limit). Again, certain combinations are not permitted.Furthermore, an exact number can be selected from the lower and upper limits. This design has proven particularly versatile in initial tests, yet is comparatively simple and cost-effective to implement.

[0021] It is further proposed to design the signal generator device such that the parts from the first group of parts have a higher deformability than the parts from the second group of parts. Additionally or alternatively, the signal generator device can be designed and configured such that a surface section of a part which has a deformation for contacting another part, preferably a projection of a part, has a higher deformability compared to the corresponding adjacent surface section of the adjacent part. In this way, a joining process for the respective parts is particularly easy to implement. The force-fitting connection can also be particularly durable and have a comparatively high strength.While the deformed part / deformed projection may be made of a different material (in particular a material particularly well suited for this purpose) than the "main body" of the respective part from the first and / or second group of parts, it is generally preferred if it is made of (substantially) the same material as the "main body" of the respective part from the first and / or second group of parts.

[0022] It is further proposed to design the signaling device such that, at least for some parts, protruding surface sections are arranged on both surface sides in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the magnetic interaction surface. In this way, the respective part is, in a sense, clamped from both directions. However, it is also possible to provide such protruding surface sections only on one surface side of the respective part. In this way, the production of the signaling device (in particular the respective part; or the preassembled module comprising the respective part) can be realized in a simpler manner.

[0023] Furthermore, it is proposed to design the signaling device such that the first material (and / or possibly the second material and / or possibly an additional material) comprises a non-magnetic material and / or a soft magnetic material and / or a material taken from the group comprising resin, plastics, elastomers, plastomers, copper, and copper alloys. Additionally or alternatively, it is proposed to design the signaling device such that the second material (and / or possibly the first material and / or possibly an additional material) comprises a magnetic material and / or a hard magnetic material and / or a material taken from the group comprising iron, iron alloys, steel, and ferrites. Initial tests have shown that such a configuration is particularly advantageous.In particular, if a material is used that has no (or only low) permanent magnetism, an accumulation of metallic particles on the signaling device can be avoided, which is particularly advantageous. Furthermore, if a (soft and / or hard) magnetic material is used in combination with a non-magnetic material, a particularly strong change in the resulting magnetic behavior (particularly at the position of the sensor) along the magnetic interaction surface of the signaling device can be realized. Therefore, a simpler and less sensitive sensor can be used. Furthermore, if iron, steel, or similar is used as (one of the) "basic materials" of the signaling device, a particularly rigid and stable signaling device can be realized, since metals or similar materials typically have high strength and are comparatively inexpensive and / or readily available.They are also a standard material for many technical applications.

[0024] It is further proposed to design the signaling device such that the magnetic interaction surface is formed as a closed surface, in particular as a round surface, preferably as a circular surface. Additionally or alternatively, it is proposed to design the signaling device such that the signaling device is formed as an annular object and / or as a wheel-shaped object. With such a design, the signaling device typically has low viscous forces counteracting movement. Furthermore, such a shape corresponds to the typical requirements of machines in which the signaling device is typically used. Since the proposed shapes roughly correspond to the usual design for signaling devices, the proposed signaling device can be used as an "immediate replacement solution", which can increase the acceptance of the device.Furthermore, the proposed design generally results in a particularly stable construction of the resulting signaling device. Furthermore, the proposed construction, particularly its circular shape, will facilitate the assembly of the resulting signaling device.

[0025] Furthermore, it is proposed to design the signal generator device such that at least some of the parts from the first group of parts and / or at least some of the parts from the second group of parts have a bar-like shape along the magnetic interaction surface. In this way, the alternating arrangement / rack-like design of the magnetic interaction surface can be implemented particularly easily. Furthermore, the output signal that the sensor can generate can also be particularly advantageous. The term "bar-like shape" can be understood in a broad sense. In particular, cube-shaped or cuboid shapes are also possible. However, other shapes are also possible. Nevertheless, a strictly rectangular or square cross-section is generally preferred.According to the present proposal, the design with a force-locking connection utilizing only a fraction of the adjacent surfaces, particularly the design with protruding surface sections, results in a certain deviation from the aforementioned shapes when viewed in a strictly mathematical sense. Therefore, these cross-sections can be considered a "basic shape" that is modified in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0026] Furthermore, it is proposed to design the signal generator device such that a plurality of parts from the first group of parts and / or a plurality of parts from the second group of parts are each connected to one another by means of an annular connecting structure, wherein the annular connecting structure preferably comprises the same material as the parts of the respective group of parts. In this way, it is possible to prefabricate two separately handleable subassembly parts that are simply connected to one another to complete the signal generator device. This joining can be carried out as a type of comb-like joining process. In particular, a part in the form of a block (bar-like) that protrudes from the annular connecting structure can be arranged with such an angular offset that the block is arranged next to a gap in the adjacent pre-assembled assembly part.Then, a simple linear movement can result in the two parts being joined together. In particular, it may even be possible to manufacture one or both pre-assembled assemblies separately using a molding, casting, sintering, or other manufacturing process. The two pre-assembled subassemblies are then joined together.

[0027] It is further proposed to design the signaling device such that the parts and the corresponding annular connecting structure are provided as a preassembled subassembly, preferably as a one-piece subassembly. This makes the production of the signaling device even simpler and more cost-effective. For example, the preassembled subassembly, which has an annular structure and corresponding bar-like parts, can be easily manufactured using an injection molding process.

[0028] Furthermore, it is proposed to design the signaling device such that at least one of the annular connecting structures is arranged on one side of the magnetic interaction surface. In this way, a highly symmetrical signaling device can be realized. Furthermore, the viscous forces can be particularly low when the signaling device is moved in its usual direction of movement (when used in its final machine). The provision of two separate assemblies, which are then simply joined together as described above, can also be implemented particularly easily.

[0029] It is further proposed that the signaling device be designed and configured such that the magnetic interaction surface has a substantially smooth surface, in particular with respect to the standard direction of movement of the magnetic interaction surface, wherein the signaling device is preferably designed and configured such that substantially all exposed surfaces of the signaling device have a substantially smooth surface, in particular with respect to the standard direction of movement of the signaling device. In this way, viscous forces that occur when rotating the signaling device can be minimized. This is particularly advantageous when the signaling device is used in a hydraulic system and may be partially or even completely immersed in hydraulic oil (which is anything but unusual in hydraulic applications).This design can reduce mechanical / hydrodynamic losses, potentially leading to higher efficiency in the final assembly. Furthermore, hydraulic oil heating and potentially noise can be reduced.

[0030] Furthermore, it is proposed to design the signal generator device such that the parts from the first group of parts and / or the parts from the second group of parts are evenly spaced and / or that the parts from the first group of parts and / or the parts from the second group of parts are spaced in a special coding arrangement and / or that the signal generator device, in particular the parts from the first group of parts and / or the parts from the second group of parts, is / are designed and / or configured such that the magnetic interaction surface generates a substantially binary signal. When choosing an embodiment according to the present disclosure, the signal generator device can be used for typical requirements. For example, the signal generator device can be used for a simple measurement of the speed (e.g., the rotational speed of an axle).However, with the help of special coding, it is also possible to determine the position of the signal-transmitting device (which could be, for example, the axle of a wheel or the crankshaft of an engine, etc.). Typically, it is preferred if the resulting signal is of the binary type. This is not only because the resulting logic is generally easier to implement. In addition, with a binary signal, dirt accumulation, changes to the equipment, or the like generally play a lesser role (although in the case of using an analog signal (size / reading of the respective signal), where the value contains some information, this usually leads to "false readings"). Parts from a third group of parts / a third material may or may not be used to implement a special coding arrangement.

[0031] Furthermore, it is proposed to design the signal generator device such that the magnetic interaction surface and / or a circular surface of the signal generator device has a surface that has at least two surface regions arranged at an angle to one another. This configuration can be advantageous for reasons of weight savings and / or for reasons of installation space. By using a beveled surface region, the arrangement of a sensor can be simplified and / or the signal induced in the sensor can be improved. The angle between the two surface regions, i.e. the flat surface region and the tapered / beveled / bent surface region, can preferably be between 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30° (lower limit) and 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 50°, 60° or 70° (upper limit). It should be noted that an angle of 0° corresponds to a flat surface with no noticeable curvature.

[0032] Furthermore, a signal generator arrangement is proposed, which comprises a sensor device and a signal generator device according to the preceding disclosure. In particular, the signal generator device and the sensor device are combined in a "reasonable manner." In particular, this generally means that in the arrangement proposed here, the sensor detects the (varying) magnetic behavior of the signal generator device along a magnetic interaction surface thereof. Furthermore, the arrangement and positions of the two devices are selected such that the sensor generates a good signal and / or that, at least under standard operating conditions, no adverse mechanical effects (e.g., a shock or the like) occur. In particular, the signal generator device and / or the signal generator arrangement according to the preceding disclosure can be used for any type of rotating device.In particular, the rotating device may be an axle, a crankshaft, a wheel, a wheel carrier, a spindle device, and / or a shaft of essentially any type of machine. The machine may be (to name just a few examples) an engine, an internal combustion engine, a machine tool, an electric motor, an electric generator, a fluid working machine, a fluid pump, a fluid motor (where the fluid in these cases may be hydraulic oil and / or water), a turbine, a vehicle body device, a landing gear device, a generator device, a wind generator device, or the like. The signaling device and / or the signaling device may be used for stationary machines, land vehicles (including on-road, off-road, and / or rail use), watercraft, aircraft, and / or spacecraft.In particular, vehicles such as cars, trucks, buses, vehicles with hydraulic systems, forklifts, tractors, agricultural machinery, construction vehicles, construction equipment, and the like are possible. Further advantages, features, and objects of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1: two corresponding assembly rings, one of which has block-shaped parts of a first group comprising a first material, which are connected to one another by a connecting ring, and the other of which has block-shaped parts of a second group comprising a second material, which are connected to one another by a connecting ring, in a schematic plan view; Fig. 2: an enlarged view of a portion of the first assembly ring in a schematic plan view and in a schematic perspective view; Fig. 3: a schematic perspective view of the assembled signaling device; Fig. 4: an enlarged view showing details of the block-shaped parts of the subassembly rings, both in the pre-assembled and assembled state; Fig. 5: an enlarged view of different sides of a section of an assembled signaling device in a plan view and in a perspective view.

[0033] Fig. Figure 1 shows an arrangement of two assembly rings 1, 2 in a schematic plan view. The two assembly rings 1, 2 are still separated from each other. However, the alignment of the two assembly rings 1, 2 is such that they can be easily connected to form the finished signal generator device 3 (pulse generator ring; see Fig. 3). To do this, the two assembly rings 1, 2 must be moved laterally against each other (linear movement in the plane of the drawing from Fig. 1). When the two assembly rings 1, 2 are correctly aligned (whereby a certain angular alignment may be required by rotating the two assembly rings 1, 2 in the direction of rotation relative to each other), the two assembly rings 1, 2 are pushed towards each other in a comb-like manner (movement perpendicular to the plane of the drawing of Fig. 1). When the two assembly rings 1, 2 are fully connected, the signaling device - 3 is in accordance with Fig. 3 completed.

[0034] In Fig. 2 is an enlarged section of one of the assembly rings 1, 2, here the first assembly ring 1, in a schematic plan view from above ( Fig. 2a) and in a schematic perspective view ( Fig. 2b).

[0035] As can be seen, the assembly ring 1 has a connecting ring 4 with an overall circular shape. A plurality of essentially bar-like interaction parts 6 are provided along the outer peripheral edge 5 of the connecting ring 4. Since the outer peripheral surface of the signal generator device 3 or the magnetic interaction surface 10 of the signal generator device 3 has an angled surface in this case (see also Fig. 3 and Fig. 5), the blocks of the bar-like interaction parts 6 do not have a strictly cuboid shape; instead, a corner section of the cuboid is, so to speak, cut off from the bar-like interaction part 6. The interaction parts 6 and the connecting ring 4 form a one-piece device. It should be noted that the arrangement is designed such that only one side section of the interaction parts 6 is connected to the connecting ring 4. In the view of Fig. 2, the connecting ring 4 lies flat on the table plane, while the multitude of bar-like interaction parts 6 to the viewer of Fig. 2 show.

[0036] The first assembly ring 1 is made of a thermoplastic material. The assembly ring 1 can therefore be easily manufactured using an injection molding process. The respective assembly ring 1 can thus be manufactured easily and very cost-effectively.

[0037] The second assembly ring 2 is fundamentally similar in structure. The second assembly ring 2 has a connecting ring 7. Similar to the first assembly ring 1, a plurality of bar-like interaction parts 9 are mounted in a one-piece design on the radially outer peripheral edge 8 of the connecting ring 7. It should be noted that in the view of Fig. 1 the bar-like interaction parts 9 are indeed from the viewer of Fig. 1, i.e., point toward the table plane. Nevertheless, the bar-like interaction parts 9 (which in this case are also designed as a kind of cuboid with a truncated corner area) protrude from the connecting ring 7, although this is not clearly visible in the drawing.

[0038] In the assembled state of the signal generator device 3, the bar-like interaction parts 6 of the first assembly ring 2 and the bar-like interaction parts 9 of the second assembly ring 2 are arranged alternately, thereby forming a magnetic interaction surface 10 on the radially outer side of the signal generator device 3. Due to the different magnetic behavior of the selected materials (i.e., the first assembly ring 1—and thus the bar-like interaction parts 6—on the one hand, and the second assembly ring 2—and thus the bar-like interaction parts 9—on the other hand), a magnetic sensor arranged near the magnetic interaction surface 10 of the signal generator device 3 can detect a varying magnetic signal when the signal generator device 3 is rotated. It should be noted that the magnetic interaction surface 10 is bent in the embodiment shown.The magnetic interaction surface 10 comprises a first, flat portion 14 oriented parallel to the axial direction. Adjacent to the flat portion 14 is a tapered portion 15 arranged at an angle of, in this case, 45° relative to the flat portion 14 of the magnetic interaction surface 10.

[0039] The second assembly ring 2 is made of steel and therefore has ferromagnetic properties. The assembly ring 2 can be manufactured using abrasive manufacturing processes known from the prior art.

[0040] An essential detail of the construction of the signaling device 3 is shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 4. In detail, Fig. 4 an enlarged view showing details of the block-shaped parts 6, 9 of the assembly rings 1, 2 both in the pre-assembled state ( Fig. 4a) as well as in the assembled state ( Fig. 4b) shows.

[0041] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the bar-like interaction parts 6 of the first assembly ring 1 (which is made of thermoplastic material in the present case) have protruding webs 12 on their side surfaces 11. Specifically, each side surface 11 of each interaction part 6 has two protruding webs 12. A side surface 11 of an interaction part 6 is a side surface 11 that is perpendicular to a direction of rotation / tangential direction of the assembly ring 1 / the signal generator device 3. These side surfaces 11 touch the corresponding side surfaces 13 of the bar-like interaction parts 9 of the second assembly ring 2 when the two assembly rings 1, 2 are joined together to form the signal generator device 3 (see in particular Fig. 4b). As in Fig. 4, the side surfaces 13 of the bar-like interaction parts 9 of the assembly ring 2 are essentially flat (see in particular Fig. 4a), i.e., they do not have any projecting webs or other types of projections that are even remotely similar to the projecting webs 12 of the interaction part 6 of the first assembly ring 1. This difference is essentially due to the two different materials used, their material properties, and their machinability. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that bar-like projections 12 can be easily manufactured using the injection molding process used in the manufacture of the first assembly ring 1, while their machining using abrasive machining techniques is more problematic.

[0042] When the two assembly rings 1, 2 are brought together to form the signaling device 3, the projecting webs 12 of the interaction part 6 of the first assembly ring 1 are deformed by contact with the adjacent side surfaces 13 of the interaction parts 9 of the second assembly ring 2. Due to the material properties of thermoplastics, in particular due to their (at least to a certain extent) elastic deformability, a force-locking connection is established between the two assembly rings 1, 2 through the deformation and the tendency to return to the original (undeformed) shape, whereby the two assembly rings 1, 2 are firmly held together to form the signaling device 3. This assembly situation is shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 is particularly clear. Fig. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of various sides of a section of an assembled signaling device 3 as shown in Fig. 3 is shown. Fig. Figure 5a shows the situation in a plan view of a first side surface 16 (the side having the angled part 15 of the magnetic interaction surface 10), with a slightly perspective aspect also being shown for clarity. Fig. 5b shows a plan view of a second side surface 17, which is opposite the first side surface 16 of the signal generator device 3.

[0043] Of course, it is also possible to increase the strength of the connection by applying adhesive and / or shaping the corresponding parts in such a way that an additional positive connection is created.

[0044] It should be noted that any one or a plurality of features of one, several, or all of the presently disclosed detailed embodiments may be used in combination with the general description of the present disclosure. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] DE 10 2015 117 498 A1

[0006] DE 42 30 043 A1

[0007] DE 195 13 669 A1

[0008] DE 10 2009 053 916 A1

[0009]

Claims

[1] Signal generator device (3) comprising a magnetic interaction surface (10) which can be scanned by a sensor, wherein a first group of parts (6) comprising a first material and a second group of parts (9) comprising a second material are arranged alternately along the magnetic interaction surface (10), wherein the first material and the second material have different magnetic behavior, wherein the parts (6) from the first group of parts and the parts (9) from the second group of parts are connected to one another in a force-fitting manner, characterized by that at least the parts (6, 9) from the first group of parts and / or from the second group of parts are designed and arranged such that only a fraction of the adjacent surfaces (11, 13) of adjacent parts (6, 9) are non-positively connected to one another. [2] Signaling device (3) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the parts (6) from the first group of parts and / or the parts (9) from the second group of parts have at least one projecting surface section (12), preferably at least one web-like (12) projecting surface section. [3] Signaling device (3) according to claim 1 or 2, preferably according to claim 2, characterized by that the parts (6) from the first group of parts have a higher deformability than the parts (9) from the second group of parts, and / or wherein a surface section (11) of a part (6) which has a deformation (12) for contacting another part (9), more preferably a projection (12) of a part (6), has a higher deformability than the corresponding adjacent surface section (13) of the adjacent part (9). [4] Signal transmitter device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, preferably according to claim 2 or 3, characterized bythat at least in some parts (6) projecting (12) surface sections are arranged on both surface sides (11) as seen in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the magnetic interaction surface (10). [5] Signal transmitter device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first material comprises a non-magnetic material and / or a soft magnetic material and / or a material taken from the group comprising resin, plastics, elastomers, plastomers, copper and copper alloys and / or characterized by that the second material comprises a magnetic material and / or a hard magnetic material and / or a material taken from the group comprising iron, iron alloys, steel and ferrites. [6] Signaling device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the magnetic interaction surface (10) is designed as a closed surface, in particular as a round surface, preferably as a circular surface (10), and / or characterized by that the signal generator device (3) is designed as a ring-shaped object and / or a wheel-shaped object. [7] Signaling device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least some of the parts (6) from the first group of parts and / or at least some of the parts (9) from the second group of parts have a bar-like shape along the magnetic interaction surface (10). [8] Signal transmitter device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 7, characterized bythat a plurality of parts (6) from the first group of parts and / or a plurality of parts (9) from the second group of parts are each connected to one another by means of an annular connecting structure (4, 8), wherein the annular connecting structure (4, 8) preferably comprises the same material as the parts (6, 9) of the respective group of parts. [9] Signaling device (3) according to claim 8, characterized by that the parts (6, 9) and the corresponding annular connecting structure (4, 8) are designed as a pre-assembled subassembly (1, 2), preferably as a one-piece subassembly (1, 2). [10] Signaling device (3) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by that at least one of the annular connecting structures (4, 8) is arranged on one side (16, 17) of the magnetic interaction surface (10). [11] Signal transmitter device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the signal generator device is designed and configured such that the magnetic interaction surface (10) has a substantially smooth surface, in particular with respect to the standard direction of movement of the magnetic interaction surface (10), wherein the signal generator device (3) is preferably designed and configured such that substantially all exposed surfaces of the signal generator device (3) have a substantially smooth surface, in particular with respect to the standard direction of movement of the signal generator device (3). [12] Signaling device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the parts (6) from the first group of parts and / or the parts (9) from the second group of parts are evenly spaced and / or characterized bythat the parts from the first group of parts and / or the parts from the second group of parts are spaced in a special coding arrangement and / or characterized by that the signal generator device (3), in particular the parts (6) from the first group of parts and / or the parts (9) from the second group of parts, is / are designed and / or arranged such that the magnetic interaction surface (10) generates a substantially binary signal. [13] Signaling device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the magnetic interaction surface (10) and / or a circular surface (10) of the signal generator device (3) has a surface which has at least two surface regions (14, 15) arranged at an angle to one another. [14] Signal generator arrangement comprising a sensor device and a signal generator device (3) according to one of claims 1 to 12.

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