Brake actuator

Abstract

Brake actuator, comprehensive: a hydraulic unit containing a cylinder hole designed to extend in a first direction, wherein a hydraulic circuit is provided in the hydraulic unit; a cylinder unit comprising a cylinder arranged to pass through the cylinder hole and a piston designed to move inside the cylinder; a drive unit located on one side of the hydraulic unit and designed to move the piston; and an electronic control unit located on the other side of the hydraulic unit.

Description

Background area

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to brake actuators, and in particular to a modularized brake actuator. Discussion of the background

[0002] A moving vehicle can be braked using a braking device. The braking device can increase the braking force by amplifying a user input force using hydraulic pressure and a vacuum assist force. The vacuum assist force can be generated using the power of the vehicle's engine. However, a problem arises in that using the vacuum assist force reduces the engine's power output.

[0003] To solve the problem described above, an electric braking device is used, which increases the user's input force by using an electrically powered motor instead of the power of a conventional motor. Such an electric braking device includes a motor, an electronic control unit, and the like. However, a problem arises in that the need to vary the motor's capacity depending on the size of the vehicle complicates the design, and malfunctioning components are not easily repaired.

[0004] The background of the technology of the present disclosure is disclosed in Japanese patent no. 5501386 (registered on March 20, 2014, entitled “ELECTRIC BRAKE BOOSTER AND BRAKE APPARATUS USING THE SAME”; “Electric brake booster and brake device with the same”). Summary

[0005] Various designs aim to provide a brake actuator with variable fluid discharge capacity.

[0006] Various designs aim to provide a brake actuator with improved serviceability.

[0007] In one embodiment, a brake actuator may comprise: a hydraulic unit having a cylinder hole designed to extend in a first direction, with a hydraulic circuit provided in the hydraulic unit; a cylinder unit comprising a cylinder arranged to pass through the cylinder hole and a piston configured to move inside the cylinder; a drive unit arranged on one side of the hydraulic unit and configured to move the piston; and an electronic control unit arranged on the other side of the hydraulic unit.

[0008] The hydraulic unit may include a pedal hole designed to extend in a second direction, different from the first. The brake actuator may further include a pedal unit that is inserted into the pedal hole.

[0009] The pedal unit may include a pedal plunger that is inserted into the pedal hole and configured to move within it. The hydraulic unit may include a stroke sensor configured to detect the position of the pedal plunger.

[0010] The brake actuator may further include a spacer unit which is arranged between the drive unit and the hydraulic unit and is configured to provide a distance between the drive unit and the hydraulic unit.

[0011] The spacer unit may comprise: a spacer body positioned between the drive unit and the hydraulic unit; a spacer body mounting hole passing through the spacer body; and a spacer body mounting element passing through the drive unit and the spacer body mounting hole and inserted into the hydraulic unit.

[0012] The brake actuator may further comprise: a spacer body connection hole into which the cylinder unit is inserted; a spacer body inner contact section that is arranged inside the spacer body connection hole and contacts the cylinder unit; and a spacer body connecting section that connects the spacer body and the spacer body connection hole.

[0013] The brake actuator may further comprise: a spacer body projection extending from the spacer body connecting section towards the drive unit; and a spacer body projection groove formed as a groove in the spacer body projection and engaging with the drive unit.

[0014] The drive unit may include: a drive housing having an opening that is open towards the hydraulic unit; and a motor located in the drive housing.

[0015] The drive unit may comprise: a drive projection arranged to protrude from the drive housing; and a drive projection bearing arranged in the drive projection and configured to contact the cylinder unit.

[0016] The drive unit may include: an open support arranged in the opening; and an open support bearing arranged between the open support and the cylinder unit and configured to contact the cylinder unit.

[0017] The brake actuator may further comprise: the opening into which the cylinder unit is inserted; an open support bearing arranged radially outside the opening; an open support arranged radially outside the open support bearing and configured to support the open support bearing; an open support projection extending from the open support towards the spacer unit and engaging with the spacer unit.

[0018] The piston can move towards and away from the electronic control unit, causing fluid to flow in the cylinder unit.

[0019] The cylinder unit can further include a piston drive arranged within the cylinder and configured to be rotated by the drive unit. The piston can be moved between the drive unit and the electronic control unit by rotating the piston drive.

[0020] A brake actuator according to the present disclosure makes it possible to vary the fluid discharge capacity.

[0021] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the brake actuator enables improved ease of maintenance. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a brake actuator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the brake actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the brake actuator as seen from a first viewpoint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the brake actuator as seen from a second perspective according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a cylinder unit, a drive unit and a spacer unit according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is a sectional view showing the drive unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is a sectional view showing the cylinder unit according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 is a sectional view showing the cylinder unit according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a brake actuator that incorporates a modified example of a spacer unit according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view that represents a modified example of the spacer unit of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view that presents a modified example of the drive unit of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 12 is a sectional view showing a drive unit combined with a modified example of the spacer unit of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the illustrated embodiments

[0022] A brake actuator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are not precisely to scale and the thickness of lines or the sizes of components may be exaggerated only for the sake of descriptive convenience and clarity. Furthermore, the terms used herein are defined with consideration of features of the present disclosure and may be modified according to the custom or intent of users or operators. Therefore, the definitions of terms should be made in accordance with the entirety of the disclosures set forth herein.

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a brake actuator 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the brake actuator 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the brake actuator 1 as seen from a first viewpoint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the brake actuator 1 as seen from a second perspective according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] The brake actuator 1 is referred to Fig. 1 to 4 described.

[0025] The brake actuator 1 can comprise a hydraulic unit 10, a cylinder unit 20, a drive unit 30, and an electronic control unit 40. The brake actuator 1 can further comprise a pedal unit 50 and / or a spacer unit 60.

[0026] The hydraulic unit 10 can hold fluid. Depending on the flow and pressure of the fluid, the braking force exerted on the wheels of a vehicle can vary. In one embodiment, the hydraulic unit 10 can individually control the braking force exerted on each of the vehicle's wheels.

[0027] The cylinder unit 20 can be arranged in the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the cylinder unit 20 can be inserted into a cylinder bore 110 that passes through a hydraulic housing 100 of the hydraulic unit 10. The cylinder unit 20 inserted into the cylinder bore 110 can move the fluid contained in the hydraulic unit 10 and / or control the pressure of the fluid.

[0028] The drive unit 30 can be arranged on a first side (e.g., in a +X-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10. The drive unit 30 can generate a drive force. The drive unit 30 can be connected to the cylinder unit 20. The drive force generated by the drive unit 30 can be transmitted to the cylinder unit 20, and the cylinder unit 20 can be operated by the drive force. The operation of the cylinder unit 20 can cause fluid to move into and out of the cylinder unit 20.

[0029] The electronic control unit 40 can be arranged on a second side (e.g., in an X-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the hydraulic unit 10 can be arranged between the electronic control unit 40 and the drive unit 30. The electronic control unit 40 can control the drive force of the drive unit 30 to control the operation of the cylinder unit 20.

[0030] The pedal unit 50 can be arranged on a third side (e.g., in a +Y-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the pedal unit 50 can be inserted into a pedal hole 130 formed in a hydraulic housing 100 of the hydraulic unit 10. The pedal unit 50, inserted into the pedal hole 130, can move inside the hydraulic unit 10 in response to a user movement. A stroke sensor 140 can be arranged in the hydraulic unit 10 to detect the position of the pedal unit 50. In one embodiment, the stroke sensor 140 can detect the position of a pedal plunger 520 of the pedal unit 50. Information about the position of the pedal plunger 520 detected by the stroke sensor 140 can be transmitted to the electronic control unit 40.The electronic control unit 40 can receive information about the position of the pedal plunger 520 and can control the drive force of the drive unit 30 based on this information. Accordingly, the cylinder unit 20 can operate in such a way that fluid stored in the hydraulic unit 10 can be moved or the pressure of the fluid can be adjusted.

[0031] The spacer unit 60 can be arranged on the first side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the spacer unit 60 can be arranged between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30. The spacer unit 60, arranged between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30, can provide a distance between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30. This distance between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30 can be set based on the height (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the spacer unit 60.

[0032] Based on an increase in the height of the spacer unit 60, the distance between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30 can increase, and accordingly, the length (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the cylinder unit 20 can increase. Therefore, the cylinder unit 20, which has a relatively large length, can be arranged inside the hydraulic unit 10.

[0033] Based on a reduction in the height of the spacer unit 60, the distance between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30 can decrease, and accordingly, the length of the cylinder unit 20 can decrease. Therefore, the cylinder unit 20, which has a relatively short length, can be arranged inside the hydraulic unit 10.

[0034] As described above, the cylinder unit 20 can be arranged in the hydraulic unit 10 in different sizes according to a change in the length of the spacer unit 60. Since the cylinder unit 20 is arranged in the hydraulic unit 10 in different sizes, the brake actuator 1 can be mounted on different vehicle types by replacing the cylinder unit 20 and / or the spacer unit 60 with one of a different size.

[0035] In one embodiment, the spacer unit 60 with a large height (e.g. in the X-axis direction) and the cylinder unit 20 with a large length (e.g. in the X-axis direction) can be arranged in the hydraulic unit 10 to increase the performance of the brake actuator 1.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the spacer unit 60 can be arranged with a small height (e.g. in the X-axis direction) and the cylinder unit 20 with a small length in the hydraulic unit 10 in order to reduce the power of the brake actuator 1.

[0037] As described above, since the height (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the spacer unit 60 is adjustable, the length (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the cylinder unit 20 can be adjusted. Accordingly, the fluid discharge capacity of the cylinder unit 20 can be adjusted, and the need to redesign the brake actuator 1 for application in different vehicles can be minimized.

[0038] With reference to Fig. Sections 1 to 4 describe a detailed configuration of brake actuator 1.

[0039] The hydraulic unit 10 can include the hydraulic housing 100, the cylinder hole 110, a hydraulic circuit 120, the pedal hole 130 and the lift sensor 140.

[0040] The hydraulic housing 100 can be provided in an approximately hexagonal shape. In one embodiment, the hydraulic housing 100 can have a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0041] The cylinder hole 110 can be configured as a hole passing through the hydraulic housing 100. In one embodiment, the cylinder hole 110 can traverse the hydraulic housing 100 in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction). The cylinder unit 20 can be arranged within the cylinder hole 110. In one embodiment, the cylinder unit 20 can be arranged such that it passes through the cylinder hole 110. A first side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction) of the cylinder unit 20 can contact the drive unit 30, and a second side (e.g., in the -X-axis direction) of the cylinder unit 20 can be arranged to face the electronic control unit 40.

[0042] The hydraulic circuit 120 can be arranged in the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the hydraulic circuit 120 can be arranged inside the hydraulic housing 100. The hydraulic circuit 120 can form a flow path through which fluid contained in the hydraulic unit 10 moves. A portion of the hydraulic circuit 120 can be opened or closed, thus changing the fluid flow path.

[0043] According to the configuration above, brake actuator 1 can transmit braking force independently to each wheel. Since the braking force of each wheel is controlled independently, brake actuator 1 can perform an electronic stability control function.

[0044] Since the flow path is opened or closed by the electronic control unit 40, the hydraulic circuit 120 can adjust the braking force of each wheel. Because the braking force of each wheel is adjusted, the brake actuator 1 can perform an anti-lock braking system function.

[0045] The pedal hole 130 can be provided as a recessed hole in the hydraulic housing 100. In one embodiment, the pedal hole 130 can be located on the third side (e.g., in the +Y-axis direction) of the hydraulic housing 100.

[0046] The pedal unit 50 can be arranged in the pedal hole 130. In one embodiment, the pedal unit 50 can be inserted into the pedal hole 130. The pedal unit 50 can move parallel to a direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) inside the pedal hole 130.

[0047] The stroke sensor 140 can be arranged in the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the stroke sensor 140 can be arranged in the hydraulic housing 100 to detect the position of the pedal unit 50. More precisely, the stroke sensor 140 can detect the position of the pedal plunger 520 of the pedal unit 50. The stroke sensor 140 can transmit information about the position of the pedal plunger 520 to the electronic control unit 40.

[0048] The electronic control unit 40 can control the drive force of the drive unit 30 based on information about the position of the pedal plunger 520.

[0049] The cylinder unit 20 can be arranged in the hydraulic housing 100. In one embodiment, the cylinder unit 20 can be inserted into the cylinder bore 110 formed in the hydraulic housing 100. The cylinder unit 20 can be connected to the drive unit 30 and can operate by a drive force generated by the drive unit 30.

[0050] The cylinder unit 20 can include a cylinder 210, a piston 220 and a piston drive 230.

[0051] The cylinder 210 can be provided in an approximately tubular shape. In one embodiment, the cylinder 210 can be provided in an approximately circular tubular shape. The piston 220 can be arranged inside the cylinder 210.

[0052] The piston 220 can move in a longitudinal direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the cylinder 210. When the piston 220 moves in the +X-axis direction, the fluid contained in the cylinder 210 can be expelled to the outside of the cylinder 210. When the piston 220 moves in the -X-axis direction, the fluid located outside the cylinder 210 can be introduced into the cylinder 210.

[0053] The piston drive 230 can be connected to the drive unit 30. In one embodiment, the piston drive 230 can be connected to the drive unit 30 to receive a drive force generated by the drive unit 30. The piston drive 230 can rotate using the drive force received from the drive unit 30.

[0054] When the piston drive 230 rotates, the piston 220 can move parallel to one direction (e.g. in the X-axis direction).

[0055] A detailed description of cylinder unit 20 is given below, along with descriptions of Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 provided.

[0056] The drive unit 30 can comprise a drive housing 300 and a drive projection 310.

[0057] The drive housing 300 can be arranged on the first side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10. A first side (e.g., located in the +X-axis direction) of the drive housing 300 can be closed, and a second side (e.g., located in the -X-axis direction) of the drive housing 300 can include an opening 301.

[0058] The drive projection 310 can be arranged on the closed side of the drive housing 300. The drive projection 310 can be designed to project in one direction (e.g., in the +X-axis direction).

[0059] The detailed description of the drive unit 30 is given below, along with a description of Fig. 6 provided.

[0060] The electronic control unit 40 can be located on the second side (e.g. in the -X-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10.

[0061] The electronic control unit 40 can receive information from the stroke sensor 140 and can control the drive force of the drive unit 30.

[0062] The electronic control unit 40 can comprise an electronic control unit body 410, an electronic control unit connector 420 and an electronic control unit cover 430.

[0063] A printed circuit board (not shown) can be arranged inside the electronic control unit body 410. The printed circuit board can communicate with the drive unit 30 and / or the stroke sensor 140 to send and receive information and signals.

[0064] The electronic control unit connector 420 can be arranged within the electronic control unit body 410. The electronic control unit body 410 can include pins configured to send and receive electrical signals. The electronic control unit connector 420 can be electrically connected to the printed circuit board located inside the electronic control unit body 410.

[0065] The electronic control unit cover 430 can be arranged to be coupled to the electronic control unit body 410. Because the electronic control unit cover 430 is coupled to the electronic control unit body 410, it is possible to prevent foreign substances from entering the electronic control unit 40.

[0066] The pedal unit 50 can be inserted into the hydraulic unit 10. The pedal unit 50 can move in response to a movement by the user. In one embodiment, the pedal unit 50 can move parallel to a direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction).

[0067] The pedal unit 50 can include a pedal connector 510, a pedal plunger 520, a connecting support 530 and a seal 540.

[0068] The pedal connector 510 can be coupled to a pedal (not shown) that comes into contact with the user. The pedal plunger 520 can be arranged in one direction (e.g., in the -Y-axis direction) of the pedal connector 510.

[0069] The pedal plunger 520 can be connected to the pedal connector 510 and can move parallel to a direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) together with the pedal connector 510. The pedal plunger 520 can be inserted into the pedal hole 130 formed in the hydraulic unit 10. The position of the pedal plunger 520 can be detected by the stroke sensor 140 of the hydraulic unit 10.

[0070] The connecting support 530 can be arranged to be connected to the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the connecting support 530 can be arranged on the third side (e.g., in the +Y-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10. The connecting support 530 can be shaped to have a hollow interior. The connecting support 530 can be arranged on the third side of the hydraulic unit 10 such that a position of the hollow interior of the connecting support 530 corresponds to a position of the pedal hole 130 of the hydraulic unit 10.

[0071] The seal 540 can be arranged between the connecting support 530 and the hydraulic unit 10. In one embodiment, the seal 540 can be arranged between the connecting support 530 and the hydraulic housing 100. Because the seal 540 is arranged between the connecting support 530 and the hydraulic housing 100, it prevents foreign substances from entering the hydraulic unit 10 through the pedal hole 130.

[0072] The spacer unit 60 can be arranged between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30. The spacer unit 60, arranged between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30, can provide a distance between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30.

[0073] The spacer unit 60 can comprise a spacer body 600, a spacer body hole 601, a spacer body mounting hole 610 and a spacer body mounting element 620.

[0074] The spacer body 600 can be arranged between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30.

[0075] The spacer body hole 601 can be provided as a hole that passes through the spacer body 600. In one embodiment, the spacer body hole 601 can extend parallel to a direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) of the spacer body 600. The spacer body hole 601 can be located in a central section of the spacer body 600. The cylinder unit 20 can be arranged to pass through the spacer body hole 601.

[0076] The height of the spacer body 600 (e.g. in the X-axis direction) can be set to different values.

[0077] In one embodiment, if the cylinder unit 20 is arranged in the hydraulic unit 10 with a relatively large length (e.g. in the X-axis direction), the height of the spacer body 600 (e.g. in the X-axis direction) can be increased to correspond to the length of the cylinder unit 20.

[0078] In another embodiment, if the cylinder unit 20 is arranged in the hydraulic unit 10 with a relatively small length (e.g. in the X-axis direction), the height of the spacer body 600 (e.g. in the X-axis direction) can be reduced to match the length of the cylinder unit 20.

[0079] The spacer body mounting hole 610 can be provided as a hole that passes through the spacer body 600. The spacer body mounting hole 610 can be arranged around the circumference of the spacer body 600. In one embodiment, the spacer body mounting hole 610 can be located further away from the central section of the spacer body 600 than the spacer body hole 601.

[0080] The spacer body mounting element 620 can be attached to the hydraulic unit 10 by passing through the spacer body mounting hole 610. In one embodiment, the spacer body mounting element 620 can be attached to the hydraulic unit 10 both through the drive housing 300 and through the spacer body mounting hole 610. Accordingly, the drive unit 30 and the spacer unit 60 can be secured to the hydraulic unit 10.

[0081] Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the cylinder unit 20, the drive unit 30 and the spacer unit 60 according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0082] The cylinder unit 20, the drive unit 30 and the spacer unit 60 are described with reference to Fig. 5 described.

[0083] The length (e.g. in the X-axis direction) of the cylinder unit 20, the length (e.g. in the X-axis direction) of the drive unit 30 and the length (e.g. in the X-axis direction) of the spacer unit 60 can vary.

[0084] In one embodiment, a first cylinder unit length 20L1 of cylinder unit 20 can be smaller than a second cylinder unit length 20L2 of cylinder unit 20. A first drive unit height 30H1 of drive unit 30 can be smaller than a second drive unit height 30H2 of drive unit 30. A first spacer unit height 60H1 of spacer unit 60 can be smaller than a second spacer unit height 60H2 of spacer unit 60.

[0085] The length of the cylinder unit 20, the height of the drive unit 30 and the height of the spacer unit 60 can vary to meet the specifications of a vehicle on which the brake actuator 1 is mounted.

[0086] In one embodiment, if the vehicle on which the brake actuator 1 is mounted has a relatively large weight or requires a relatively high braking force, the cylinder unit 20 with the second cylinder unit length 20L2, the drive unit 30 with the second drive unit height 30H2 and / or the spacer unit 60 with the second spacer unit height 60H2 may be provided in the brake actuator 1.

[0087] In another embodiment, if the vehicle on which the brake actuator 1 is mounted has a relatively small weight or requires a relatively small braking force, the cylinder unit 20 with the first cylinder unit length 20L1, the drive unit 30 with the first drive unit height 30H1 and / or the spacer unit 60 with the first spacer unit height 60H1 may be provided in the brake actuator 1.

[0088] More precisely, the length of the cylinder unit 20 can be adjusted to increase or decrease the amount of fluid that is expelled from or introduced into the cylinder unit 20, and accordingly the height of the spacer unit 60 can be adjusted.

[0089] Additionally, the height of the drive unit 30 or the diameter (e.g. in a YZ plane) of the drive unit 30 can be adjusted to increase or decrease the speed or pressure of the fluid that is expelled from or introduced into the cylinder unit 20.

[0090] One in Fig. The open support 302 shown in Figure 5 can be a structure connected to a motor (not shown) located in the drive housing 300, and is shown separately from the drive housing 300 for the sake of simplicity.

[0091] As described above, only the specifications of the cylinder unit 20, the drive unit 30 and / or the spacer unit 60 need to be adjusted to meet the required specifications of the brake actuator 1, without changing the design of other components (e.g., the hydraulic unit 10, the electronic control unit 40 and the pedal unit 50).

[0092] Furthermore, even if a fault occurs in the electronic control unit 40, the electronic control unit 40 can be easily removed from the hydraulic unit 10, thus improving the serviceability of the brake actuator 1.

[0093] Furthermore, the drive unit 30, the electronic control unit 40 and the pedal unit 50 can be arranged on the first side (e.g. in the +X-axis direction), the second side (e.g. in the -X-axis direction) or the third side (e.g. in the +Y-axis direction) of the hydraulic unit 10, thereby improving the mountability of the brake actuator 1.

[0094] Fig. Figure 6 is a sectional view showing the drive unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] The drive unit 30 is described with reference to Fig. 6 described.

[0096] The drive unit 30 can include the drive housing 300, the opening 301, the open support 302, an open support bearing 303, the drive projection 310, a drive projection bearing 320, a rotary cover 330 and a motor installation space 340.

[0097] The drive housing 300 can be provided in an approximately cylindrical shape, with one side closed (e.g. in the +X-axis direction) and one side open (e.g. in the -X-axis direction).

[0098] The opening 301 can be defined as an open section of the drive housing 300.

[0099] The open support 302, which is in contact with an inner surface of the drive housing 300, can be arranged in the opening 301.

[0100] The open support bearing 303, provided as a bearing, can be arranged inside the open support 302.

[0101] The drive projection 310 can extend from a closed section of the drive housing 300 to one side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction). The drive projection bearing 320, provided as a bearing, can be arranged inside the drive projection 310.

[0102] The length (e.g. in the X-axis direction) of the drive projection 310, which projects from the drive housing 300, can vary depending on the length (e.g. in the X-axis direction) of the cylinder unit 20.

[0103] In one embodiment, if the length of the cylinder unit 20 increases, the length of the drive projection 310 can also increase, and if the length of the cylinder unit 20 decreases, the length of the drive projection 310 can also decrease.

[0104] The rotating cover 330 can be arranged inside the drive housing 300. The rotating cover 330 can be in contact with the open support bearing 303 and the drive projection bearing 320. The rotating cover 330, which is in contact with the open support bearing 303 and the drive projection bearing 320, can rotate inside the drive housing 300. In one embodiment, the rotating cover 330 can rotate about its own axis inside the drive housing 300.

[0105] The rotating cover 330 can include a rotating cover opening 331 and a rotating cover projection 332.

[0106] An outer surface of the rotation cover opening 331 can be in contact with the open support bearing 303, and an outer surface of the rotation cover projection 332 can be in contact with the drive projection bearing 320.

[0107] An inner surface of the rotating cover projection 332 can be in contact with the cylinder unit 20. In one embodiment, the inner surface of the rotating cover projection 332 can be in contact with the piston drive 230. The piston drive 230 can be inserted into the rotating cover projection 332 and can rotate in response to the rotation of the rotating cover 330.

[0108] The rotating cover 330 can make contact with the open support bearing 303 and the drive projection bearing 320 and rotate relative to the drive housing 300.

[0109] A space between the drive housing 300 and the rotating cover 330 can be defined as the motor installation space 340. The motor (not shown) can be located in the motor installation space 340. The motor can rotate the rotating cover 330. In one embodiment, a stator (not shown) of the motor can be located in the motor installation space 340, and a rotor (not shown) of the motor can be located outside the rotating cover 330. When the rotor rotates with respect to the stator, the rotating cover 330 coupled to the rotor can rotate. When the rotating cover 330 rotates, the piston drive 230 coupled to an inner surface of the rotating cover projection 332 can rotate, and accordingly, the piston 220 can move in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) of the cylinder 210.

[0110] The fluid contained in the cylinder unit 20 can be moved by the piston 220. In one embodiment, when the piston 220 moves to one side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction) away from the electronic control unit 40, fluid located outside the cylinder unit 20 can flow into the cylinder unit 20. When the piston 220 moves to the opposite side (e.g., in the -X-axis direction) towards the electronic control unit 40, the fluid contained in the cylinder unit 20 can flow to the outside of the cylinder unit 20.

[0111] Alternatively, when the piston 220 moves away from the electronic control unit 40, the fluid taken up in the cylinder unit 20 can flow to the outside of the cylinder unit 20, and when the piston 220 moves towards the electronic control unit 40, the fluid located outside the cylinder unit 20 can be introduced into the cylinder unit 20.

[0112] As described above, the flow path of the fluid can vary depending on the movement of the piston 220 in one direction (e.g. the +X-axis direction), since the flow path varies depending on the structure of the cylinder (e.g. a single-acting or double-acting structure).

[0113] Fig. Figure 7 is a sectional view showing a cylinder unit 20 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 is a sectional view showing a cylinder unit 20 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 represents the cylinder units 20 with different lengths (e.g., in the X-axis direction). A cylinder unit 20 with a greater length can expel a larger quantity of fluid to the outside of the cylinder unit 20.

[0115] The cylinder unit 20 is described with reference to Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 described.

[0116] The cylinder unit 20 can include the cylinder 210, the piston 220, the piston drive 230, an inlet / outlet housing 240 and a sealing component 250.

[0117] The cylinder 210 can be shaped to have a hollow interior and can extend in one direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). The piston 220 can be located inside the cylinder 210.

[0118] The piston 220 can be shaped to have a hollow interior and can extend in one direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). The piston 220 can move in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) of the cylinder 210. The piston drive 230 can be located inside the piston 220.

[0119] A first side (e.g., located in the +X-axis direction) of the piston drive 230 can be inserted into the rotating cover 330. In one embodiment, the first side of the piston drive 230 can be inserted into the rotating cover 330 such that the first side of the piston drive 230 comes into contact with the inner surface of the rotating cover projection 332. Accordingly, the piston drive 230 can rotate in response to the rotation of the rotating cover 330.

[0120] A helical piston drive groove 231, which is recessed to form a concave groove, can be formed in an outer surface of the piston drive 230. The helical piston drive groove 231 can be provided in the form of a helical groove of a thread.

[0121] A piston drive ball 232 can be seated in the helical piston drive groove 231. The piston drive ball 232 can contact a piston drive motion component 233, which is arranged on the outer surface of the piston drive 230. When the piston drive 230 rotates, the piston drive motion component 233 can move parallel to a direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0122] The piston drive motion component 233 can be connected to the piston 220. When the piston drive 230 rotates, the piston drive motion component 233 can move parallel to one direction, and accordingly, the piston 220 can also move together with the piston drive motion component 233.

[0123] The inlet / exhaust housing 240 can be positioned between the cylinder 210 and the piston 220. The inlet / exhaust housing 240 can be positioned so that it contacts both the outer and inner surfaces of the piston 220. Due to the aforementioned configuration, the volume of the space enclosed by the piston 220 and the inlet / exhaust housing 240 can vary depending on the movement of the piston 220.

[0124] In one embodiment, the volume of the space enclosed by the piston 220 and the inlet / outlet housing 240 can increase in response to the movement of the piston 220 to one side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction). Conversely, the volume of the space enclosed by the piston 220 and the inlet / outlet housing 240 can decrease in response to the movement of the piston 220 to the opposite side (e.g., in the -X-axis direction).

[0125] The cylinder unit 20 may further comprise a cylinder inlet / outlet hole 211 passing through the cylinder 210 and an inlet / outlet hole 241 passing through the inlet / outlet housing 240.

[0126] The inlet / outlet hole 241 can be in fluid contact with the space enclosed by the piston 220 and the inlet / outlet housing 240 and can be in fluid contact with the cylinder inlet / outlet hole 211.

[0127] Accordingly, a reduction in the volume of the space enclosed by the piston 220 and the inlet / outlet housing 240 can cause the fluid to flow from the interior of the cylinder unit 20 through the inlet / outlet hole 241 and the cylinder inlet / outlet hole 211 to the outside of the cylinder unit 20.

[0128] Additionally, an increase in the volume of the space enclosed by the piston 220 and the inlet / outlet housing 240 can cause the fluid to flow from the outside of the cylinder unit 20 through the cylinder inlet / outlet hole 211 and the inlet / outlet hole 241 into the interior of the cylinder unit 20.

[0129] The sealing component 250 can be arranged between the cylinder 210 and the piston 220, and can be arranged between the piston 220 and the inlet / exhaust housing 240. Accordingly, fluid leakage between the cylinder 210, the piston 220, and / or the inlet / exhaust housing 240 can be prevented.

[0130] Fig. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a brake actuator that incorporates a modified example of a spacer unit according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view that represents a modified example of the spacer unit of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view that presents a modified example of the drive unit of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 12 is a sectional view showing a drive unit combined with a modified example of the spacer unit of the present disclosure.

[0131] The drive unit 30 and the spacer unit 60 are described with reference to Fig. Described in sections 9 to 12.

[0132] The spacer unit 60 can be positioned between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30. Positioned between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit, the spacer unit 60 maintains a distance between the hydraulic unit 10 and the drive unit 30. The height of the spacer unit 60 (e.g., in the X-axis direction) can vary depending on the design of the cylinder unit 20.

[0133] The in Fig. The spacer unit 60 shown in Figures 2 to 5 corresponds to an embodiment comprising the spacer body 600, the spacer body hole 601, the spacer body mounting hole 610, and a spacer body mounting element 620, while the one shown in Fig.The spacer unit 60 shown in Figures 9 to 12 corresponds to an embodiment comprising a spacer body hole 601, a spacer body connection section 602, a spacer body connection hole 603, a spacer body projection 604, a spacer body projection groove 605, a spacer body inner contact section 606, a spacer body mounting hole 610 and a spacer body mounting element 620.

[0134] The spacer unit 60 can include the spacer body hole 601 that passes through the spacer body 600.

[0135] The spacer body hole 601 can be arranged inside the spacer body 600. The cylinder unit 20 can be arranged in the spacer body hole 601. According to one embodiment, the cylinder unit 20 can be inserted into the spacer body hole 601. More precisely, the cylinder 20 can be arranged so that it passes through the spacer body hole 601.

[0136] The spacer unit 60 can include the spacer body connection section 602, which is arranged radially outside the spacer body hole 601. The spacer body connection section 602 can be provided as a plate that surrounds the spacer body hole 601.

[0137] The spacer unit 60 can include the spacer body connection hole 603, which is provided as a hole passing through the spacer body connection section 602. A motor connection MC of a motor (not shown) can be located in the spacer body connection hole 603 formed in the spacer body connection section 602. The motor connection MC can be inserted into the hydraulic housing 100 through the spacer body connection hole 603. The motor connection MC can be electrically connected to a circuit located inside the hydraulic housing 100.

[0138] The spacer body connection hole 603 can be single or multiple. The spacer body connection hole 603 can be positioned to correspond to the location of the motor terminal MC. The spacer body connection hole 603 can be located radially outside the spacer body hole 601. One form of the spacer body connection hole 603 can be provided as an elongated hole.

[0139] The spacer unit 60 can include the spacer body projection 604, which projects from the spacer body 600 towards the drive unit 30. The spacer body projection 604 can be arranged radially outside the spacer body hole 601. The cylinder unit 20 inserted into the spacer body hole 601 can be enclosed by and protected by the spacer body projection 604.

[0140] The spacer unit 60 can include the spacer body projection groove 605, which is designed as a groove in one end (e.g. in the +X-axis direction) of the spacer body projection 604.

[0141] The spacer body projection groove 605 can be provided to form a relief-like shape at the end of the spacer body projection 604. The spacer body projection 604, including the spacer body projection groove 605, can contact the drive unit 30. According to one embodiment, the spacer body projection 604 can engage with the drive unit 30 through the spacer body projection groove 605. More precisely, the spacer body projection 604 can contact the open support 302 of the drive unit 30, and an open support projection 3021 can be arranged in the spacer body projection groove 605.

[0142] The open support projection 3021 of the drive unit 30 can be arranged in the spacer body projection groove 605. More precisely, the open support projection 3021 can engage with the spacer body projection 604 via the spacer body projection groove 605. Since the open support projection 3021 engages with the spacer body projection groove 605, rotation of the spacer unit 60 relative to the drive unit 30, or rotation of the drive unit 30 relative to the spacer unit 60, can be restricted. Furthermore, a position at which the drive unit 30 is coupled to the spacer unit 60 can be defined.

[0143] The spacer body projection groove 605 can be provided multiple times along the circumference of the spacer body projection 604. The open column projection 3021 can be provided multiple times along the circumference of the open column 302. Each of the multiple open column projections 3021 can be arranged in a corresponding multiple of spacer body projection grooves 605.

[0144] Since the open support projections 3021 engage with the spacer body projection grooves 605 as described above, the alignment or concentricity (e.g. in a YZ plane) between the drive unit 30 and the spacer unit 60 can be improved.

[0145] The spacer unit 60 can include the spacer body inner contact section 606, which is arranged radially inside the spacer body connection hole 603.

[0146] The inner contact section 606 of the spacer body can touch the cylinder unit 20 inserted into the spacer body hole 601. According to one embodiment, the cylinder 210 can be arranged to pass through the spacer body hole 601, and an outer circumference of the cylinder 210 can touch the inner contact section 606 of the spacer body. Because the outer circumference of the cylinder 210 touches the inner contact section 606 of the spacer body, the alignment or concentricity (e.g., in a YZ plane) of the cylinder unit 20 with respect to the spacer unit 60 can be improved. Additionally, the alignment or concentricity (e.g., in a YZ plane) of the cylinder unit 20 with respect to the hydraulic unit 10 can be improved.

[0147] Furthermore, since the cylinder unit 20, the drive unit 30 and / or the spacer unit 60 are interactively coupled to each other, the position of the cylinder unit 20 cannot be changed even if an external force is exerted on the cylinder unit 20, the drive unit 30 and / or the spacer unit 60.

[0148] The drive unit 30 can include the open support projection 3021, which is provided as a projection and extends from the open support 302.

[0149] The open support projection 3021 can project from the open support 302 and can contact the spacer unit 60. The open support projection 3021 can project from the open support 302 in the direction of the spacer unit 60. According to one embodiment, the open support projection 3021 can be inserted into the spacer body projection groove 605 of the spacer unit 60. More precisely, the open support projection 3021 can engage with the spacer body projection groove 605.

[0150] The open column projection 3021 can be provided multiple times along the circumference of the open column 302. Each of the multiple open column projections 3021 can be arranged in a corresponding multiple of spacer body projection grooves 605.

[0151] The present disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, but these are merely illustrative and those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and equivalent embodiments can be made. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] JP 5501386

[0004]

Claims

[1] Brake actuator, comprising: a hydraulic unit containing a cylinder hole designed to extend in a first direction, wherein a hydraulic circuit is provided in the hydraulic unit; a cylinder unit comprising a cylinder arranged to pass through the cylinder hole and a piston designed to move inside the cylinder; a drive unit located on one side of the hydraulic unit and designed to move the piston; and an electronic control unit located on the other side of the hydraulic unit. [2] Brake actuator according to claim 1, wherein the hydraulic unit includes a pedal hole designed to extend in a second direction which differs from the first direction, wherein the brake actuator further comprises a pedal unit which is inserted into the pedal hole. [3] Brake actuator according to claim 2, wherein the pedal unit comprises a pedal plunger which is inserted into the pedal hole and is designed to move within the pedal hole, and the hydraulic unit includes a stroke sensor designed to detect the position of the pedal plunger. [4] Brake actuator according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a spacer unit arranged between the drive unit and the hydraulic unit and configured to provide a distance between the drive unit and the hydraulic unit. [5] Brake actuator according to claim 4, wherein the spacer unit comprises: a spacer body that is positioned between the drive unit and the hydraulic unit; a spacer body mounting hole that passes through the spacer body; and a spacer body mounting element that passes through the drive unit and the spacer body mounting hole and is inserted into the hydraulic unit. [6] Brake actuator according to claim 5, further comprising: a spacer body connection hole into which the cylinder unit is inserted; a spacer body inner contact section that is located inside the spacer body connection hole and contacts the cylinder unit; and a spacer body connecting section that connects the spacer body and the spacer body connection hole. [7] Brake actuator according to claim 6, further comprising: a spacer body projection extending from the spacer body connecting section towards the drive unit; and a spacer body projection groove, which is formed as a groove in the spacer body projection and engages with the drive unit. [8] Brake actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the drive unit comprises: a drive housing containing an opening that is open towards the hydraulic unit; and a motor that is located in the drive housing. [9] Brake actuator according to claim 8, wherein the drive unit comprises: a drive projection arranged so that it protrudes from the drive housing; and a drive projection bearing that is arranged in the drive projection and is designed to contact the cylinder unit. [10] Brake actuator according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising: the opening into which the cylinder unit is inserted; an open support bearing that is arranged radially outside the opening; an open support arranged radially outside the open support bearing and designed to support the open support bearing; an open support projection that extends from the open support towards the spacer unit and engages with the spacer unit.

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