SENSOR ARRANGEMENT

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor arrangement for detecting the position of a transmission element displaceable along a transmission path parallel to a transmission direction by means of an electric actuator, as well as an actuating mechanism and a clutch actuator. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a sensor arrangement and a method for calibrating such a sensor arrangement.

[0002] From EP 3 663 722 A1, a device and a method for calibrating a magnetic sensor for determining the position of a sensor magnet along a distance are known.

[0003] Various sensor arrangements are conceivable for detecting movable elements in vehicles. Preferably, robust and durable arrangements should be used.

[0004] The application area of ​​the invention extends particularly to commercial vehicle construction. A key feature of many manual transmissions in commercial vehicles, especially for local and distribution transport, long-distance transport, as well as intercity and coach transport, is the modular design with a large number of gear ratios. This design is increasingly used in commercial vehicles for automated manual transmissions (AMTs). Manual transmissions for commercial vehicles can, in principle, exhibit different levels of automation. Depending on the design, the starting process, the actuation of the clutch, and the gear selection can be automated. In manual transmissions, none of these processes are automated; in semi-automated transmissions, one of these processes is automated; and in the fully automatic transmissions of particular interest here, all processes are automated.This necessitates the use of suitable actuation devices for an automated starting clutch, automated clutch engagement during gear changes, and automated gear selection and engine management. Of central importance for gear-shifting automation is the precise detection of the position of the shifting elements used to optimize and increase the efficiency of the automated shifting process. The sensors are typically located within the transmission. Sensing the clutch actuator is required to detect the clutch position. Depending on the gear ratio, this may involve measuring travel distances of up to 80 mm.

[0005] Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a suitable sensor arrangement. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide an actuating mechanism and a clutch actuator, as well as a method for operating and a method for calibrating such a sensor arrangement.

[0006] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0007] A sensor arrangement is provided for detecting the position of a transmission element that is displaceable on a transmission path parallel to a transmission direction, wherein the sensor arrangement comprises the following: an indicator element configured to be provided on the transmission element and configured to be moved parallel to the transmission direction together with the transmission element; detection elements, each configured to output a signal enabling the determination of the position of the indicator element at least along a section of the transmission direction when the indicator element is located within a detection area of ​​the respective detection element, wherein the detection elements are spaced apart from each other in the transmission direction and comprise at least a first detection element and a second detection element; and an evaluation unit configured to determine the position of the transmission element on the transmission path from the output signals of the detection elements. The sensor arrangement is designed to correct the output signals of the detection elements before the evaluation unit determines the position of the transmission element on the transmission path.

[0008] In the following, the terms "output signal" and "output signal" are used interchangeably to refer to the signals output by the detection elements. Unless otherwise explained, these terms are to be considered synonymous.

[0009] The transmission element is preferably provided to be displaceable on the transmission path parallel to the transmission direction by means of an electric actuator.

[0010] Preferably, the first detection element is positioned at a smaller distance from the actuator parallel to the direction of transmission than the second detection element.

[0011] The interaction between the indicator element and the sensing elements, which influences the respective output signal, preferably occurs without contact, so that the mere presence of the indicator element within the sensing range of the respective sensing element ensures that the sensing element outputs a corresponding signal. This allows for virtually wear-free operation of the sensor arrangement.

[0012] The transmission direction is preferably designed as a straight line.

[0013] The transmission path is preferably a segment of the transmission direction and is defined by a first end position and a second end position, which is spaced apart from the first end position in the transmission direction. The transmission element is then slidably provided between these two end positions, the purpose of which of the invention is to determine the position of the transmission element on this transmission path. The position of the transmission element can be defined, for example, by a specific section of the transmission element and its current position on the transmission path. If the specific section of the transmission element is, for example, in the first end position, then this corresponds to the position of the transmission element on the transmission path. The transmission element is then also in the first end position.If, for example, the specific section of the transmission element is in the second end position, then this corresponds to the position of the transmission element on the transmission path. The transmission element is then also in the second end position. Positions of the transmission element between the two end positions result from the position of the specific section of the transmission element between the two end positions.

[0014] The transmission element is preferably designed as an elongated element, such as a rod or bar, which preferably extends further in the transmission direction. In particular, an axis of the transmission element, such as a rod axis, is oriented parallel to the transmission direction. The specific section of the transmission element used to determine its position can, in particular, be a rod end.

[0015] The first detection element can be the one that is closest to the first end position parallel to the transmission direction. This means that the indicator element is within the detection range of the first detection element when the transmission element is in the first end position of the transmission path.

[0016] The actuator can be positioned, in particular, opposite to the direction of transmission and behind the first end position. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator can be positioned such that all sensing elements are located in front of or behind the actuator along the direction of transmission. It is also possible, however, for sensing elements to be located both in front of and behind the actuator in the direction of transmission. In this case, the description of the invention can refer in particular to sensing elements located on one of the two sides of the actuator. This is not mandatory, however.

[0017] Preferably, the detection elements are arranged along the transmission direction such that the first detection element has a greater distance from the transmission direction than the distance from the transmission direction of the second detection element located downstream in the transmission direction. The distance of the first and second detection elements from the transmission direction is preferably measured from the detection element itself, for example, from a center point of the detection element, as a perpendicular to the transmission direction. Preferably, the distance is defined along a second direction that is oriented perpendicular to the transmission direction. In particular, this arrangement ensures that the distance between the indicator element and the first detection element is greater than the distance between the indicator element and the second detection element when the indicator element is located within the respective detection area.This results in a correspondingly increased distance between the first detection element and the actuator. This reduces interference from magnetic fields, particularly those affecting the first detection element, which can be caused, for example, by electrical currents from the actuator or high-current lines on the circuit board. This improves the detection of the indicator element and thus the determination of the position of the transmission element, especially within the detection range of the first detection element. Specifically, the distance between all detection elements can be reduced along the second direction in the transmission direction. This means the first detection element can have the greatest distance, and the last detection element in the transmission direction can have the smallest distance.Furthermore, it can be stipulated that the first and second detection elements, or all detection elements, lie in a plane defined by the transmission direction and the second direction. However, it can also be stipulated that individual detection elements, or all detection elements, are spaced away from this plane. This results in an offset perpendicular to the transmission direction, as described below.

[0018] Preferably, the first detection element has a higher measurement sensitivity than the second detection element in order to detect the indicator element within its detection range. Especially when the first detection element is located at a greater distance from the transmission direction, as explained above, this can at least partially compensate for any potential disadvantage in the detection of the indicator element by the first detection element compared to the second.

[0019] However, it can also be stipulated that the distance between the first and second detection elements and the transmission direction in the second direction, or the distance between all detection elements, is constant. That is, in the second direction, any two of the multiple detection elements can have the same distance to the transmission direction along the second direction.

[0020] Preferably, the first and second detection elements are arranged in a common plane, which is inclined relative to the transmission direction. This allows for a simple design of the sensor arrangement. Particularly preferably, all detection elements can be arranged on the common plane. The common plane is preferably intersected by the transmission direction or by a straight line oriented in the transmission direction.

[0021] Preferably, the common plane is formed by a support element on which the first and second detection elements are arranged. This allows for simplified assembly and disassembly of the first and second detection elements, since only the support element needs to be removed.

[0022] In general, it is possible to mount all detection elements on a common support element, thus further simplifying assembly and disassembly. Such a support element can also form a common plane in which all detection elements are arranged. Alternatively or additionally, such a support element, or the plane formed by the support element, can be inclined relative to the direction of transmission.

[0023] Preferably, the carrier element is formed by a printed circuit board (PCB) or preferably includes a printed circuit board (PCB). This printed circuit board can have the necessary signal lines via which the output signals of the detection elements are transmitted to the evaluation unit.

[0024] The circuit board can also carry additional conductors. In particular, it can also carry conductors that supply electrical current to the actuator. Zones around the sensing elements, which must remain free of these conductors to ensure trouble-free operation of the sensor assembly, may be designed with rounded edges to maximize the size of these zones or to create space on the PCB for other components.

[0025] Preferably, at least one of the detection elements is arranged transversely to the transmission direction. This can mean that at least one detection element is not aligned with the transmission direction. In particular, the offset arrangement can be configured to refer to a third direction, which is oriented perpendicular to both the transmission direction and the second direction mentioned above, wherein the transmission direction and the second direction are also perpendicular to each other. In particular, an arrangement of the detection elements can be selected that allows for the greatest possible distance to electrical components, such as the actuator, thereby minimizing interference with the detection elements by such components or their magnetic fields.Preferably, the indicator element is designed such that it can be detected by every detection element, regardless of whether the respective detection element is aligned with the transmission direction or not. This can be achieved by dimensioning the indicator element appropriately in its extension transverse to the transmission direction, so that it covers all detection areas when traversing the transmission path. Particularly preferably, all detection elements are arranged offset transversely to the transmission direction.

[0026] Alternatively, it can also be provided that no offset is provided between the detection elements in the third direction.

[0027] The first and second detection elements each have a detection direction. The detection direction is defined as the central direction of the detection area of ​​the respective detection element and ultimately describes the direction in which the respective detection area, and thus the respective detection element, is oriented.

[0028] Preferably, the detection directions of the first and second detection elements are oriented parallel to each other. In particular, it is possible for the detection directions of all detection elements to be oriented parallel to each other. This is especially advantageous if the first and second detection elements, or all detection elements, are arranged in the same plane, so that the installation positions of the corresponding detection elements are identical. This also allows for a comparable output signal in response to the indicator element in the respective detection area, thereby reducing the application complexity of the sensor arrangement.

[0029] Preferably, the detection range of the detection elements exhibits a linear relationship between the output signal and the position of the indicator element. This means that as long as the indicator element is located within the respective detection range, a linear output signal is generated by the corresponding detection element, describing the position of the indicator element within the detection range. Thus, the detection range of the detection element can also be defined as the area that generates an output signal according to a linear relationship between the output signal and the position of the indicator element.

[0030] Preferably, the detection elements can output the angle at which the indicator element is positioned along the transmission direction relative to the respective detection element via their output signal. The detection elements can be configured to output only angles that do not exceed a minimum and / or maximum value. This minimum and / or maximum value can be selected such that the raw signals from which the angle is determined are processed only for positions of the indicator element within the respective detection range. If the indicator element is not within this detection range, it is preferably provided that the respective output signals are set to limit values, as described below.

[0031] The term "upper limit" is used below, for which the term "first limit" is also generally used in the application.

[0032] The term "lower limit" is also used below, for which the term "second limit" is also generally used in the application.

[0033] It is not necessarily the case that the upper limit is greater than the lower limit, or that the first limit is greater than the second limit. According to the invention, it is also possible that the upper limit is less than the lower limit, or that the first limit is less than the second limit.

[0034] The sensor arrangement is configured such that the output signal of each sensing element is set to a first, or upper, limit when the indicator element is outside the sensing range of the corresponding sensing element in the direction of transmission, and that the output signal of each sensing element is set to a second, or lower, limit when the indicator element is outside the sensing range of the corresponding sensing element in the opposite direction of transmission. The lower limit is preferably zero. The upper limit preferably corresponds to a value that corresponds to the width of the sensing range of the corresponding sensing element. Alternatively, the lower and upper limits can be different from zero. In this case, the lower limit is preferably negative, and the upper limit is preferably positive, or vice versa.The values ​​between the lower and upper limits are preferably essentially linear, regardless of whether a limit is zero or not.

[0035] The sensor arrangement is designed to add the output signals of the individual detection elements, thereby generating a total signal suitable for determining the position of the transmission element on the transmission path. The addition of the output signals preferably takes place in the evaluation unit, which then preferably determines the position of the indicator element and, from this, the position of the transmission element, or directly determines the position of the transmission element on the transmission path.

[0036] If the detection areas are arranged so that they seamlessly transition into one another, the position of the indicator element, and thus the position of the transmission element on the transmission path, can be determined along the transmission direction as follows: In this description, the transmission element is moved in the transmission direction by the actuator, with the movement beginning in a position corresponding to the first end position of the transmission element. In this position, the indicator element is located at the beginning of the detection area of ​​the first detection element, so that the output signal of the first detection element corresponds to the lower limit. This can be zero. The output signal of the subsequent detection elements also corresponds to their lower limit in this case. This can each be zero. Alternatively, the lower limit can also correspond to a value other than zero.In particular, it may be provided that the output signal of a detection element between the lower and upper limit is continuously rising or falling depending on the position of the indicator element and, in particular, is linearly dependent on the position of the indicator element.

[0037] A total output signal, generated by adding the individual output signals, can therefore be zero or, more generally, correspond to the sum of the lower limits. The evaluation unit interprets this as the position on the transmission path and is configured to interpret this value of the total output signal as the position at the first end position. This can be the position of the indicator element or directly of the transmission element. If the transmission element is now moved in the transmission direction, the indicator element passes through the detection range of the first detection element, which then outputs a signal, preferably linearly related to the position within the detection range. This signal corresponds to the position of the indicator element within the detection range of the first detection element.The output signals of the other detection elements remain at their respective lower limits at this point, as the indicator element is within the detection range of the first detection element. These output signals can be zero. The total output signal can now be determined by adding the individual output signals. Compared to the initial end position, the total output signal has now increased by the proportion that the first detection element now outputs according to the position of the indicator element within its detection range. This signal value is now interpreted by the evaluation unit as indicating that the indicator element, or directly the transmission element, has traveled an initial distance in the direction of transmission. If the indicator element completely traverses the detection range of the first detection element and exits it in the direction of transmission, the output signal of the first detection element is set to the upper limit.The output signal of the next detection element, whose detection range is now being traversed by the indicator element, now outputs a signal corresponding to the position of the indicator element within this detection range. The other detection elements positioned in the transmission direction, whose detection ranges have not yet been traversed, continue to output their lower limit. The total output signal, which the evaluation unit now determines by adding the individual output signals, corresponds to a position of the transmission element along the transmission path that lies within the detection range of the currently traversed detection element. The upper limit output by the first detection element provides an offset that, when added together, corresponds to the section already traversed, which is covered by the detection range of the first detection element.Following this scheme, all detection areas of the detection elements can be traversed successively, with the total output signal ultimately corresponding to the position of the indicator element or the transmission element. Once the second end position of the transmission path is reached, preferably all output signals of the detection elements are set to their respective upper limits. The evaluation unit then interprets the sum of these output signals as the maximum travel distance of the indicator element or directly of the transmission element, and thus as the end position.

[0038] If, instead of the configuration described here, the detection areas are not intended to be directly adjacent but rather overlapping, this can be taken into account in the evaluation unit. In this case, at least two detection elements would simultaneously output a signal if the indicator element is located within the overlap of both detection areas. This can be achieved, for example, by appropriately setting the upper and lower limits of the detection elements or by using a correspondingly adapted evaluation logic, particularly in software.

[0039] The determinations of the position of the transmission element described here can also be applied to other arrangements of detection elements that are spaced apart along the transmission direction.

[0040] Preferably, the first and second sensing elements are configured to interact with the indicator element according to the Hall effect in order to output the respective signal. Particularly preferably, all sensing elements are configured accordingly. The sensing elements are preferably configured as Hall effect chips, which are designed to interact with the indicator element, which has magnetic properties so that it can be detected by the Hall effect chips in the respective sensing area. The Hall effect chips can, in particular, be provided as a component of the aforementioned printed circuit board (PCB).

[0041] In general, the indicator element can be designed as a magnet, whereby, for better detection by the sensing elements, the magnet can be provided as a ring magnet or as a segment magnet. Preferably, the ring magnet is oriented so that it is coaxial with the sensing direction of this sensing element when it is directly opposite this sensing element.

[0042] Preferably, at least one of the detection elements is configured to output a predetermined output signal when the indicator element is within its detection range. The output signal can, for example, be the angle at which the indicator element is positioned relative to the respective detection element. In particular, it can be provided that the indicator element generates a predetermined signal profile as it traverses the detection range parallel to the transmission direction, i.e., in the transmission direction and / or against the transmission direction. Such a predetermined signal profile then allows the sensor arrangement to determine in which detection range the indicator element is currently located and thus which output signal actually indicates the position of the indicator element within the detection range.The system determines the position of the indicator element within the detection range based on the output signal. This means that signal profiles from other detection elements can be ignored, discarded, or set to predetermined values, such as the first or second threshold. This prevents output signals not generated by the indicator element within the corresponding detection range from being used in position determination. This is particularly advantageous when other interfering influences, such as magnetic fields from other sources, are present that would also generate an output signal from a detection element. This allows for the correction of the output signals from the detection elements.

[0043] Preferably, the sensor arrangement is configured to detect the detection range of the indicator element based on a predetermined output signal or raw signals. This can be achieved, in particular, by having the indicator element generate a specific output signal known to the sensor arrangement as it passes through the respective detection range. Alternatively, the indicator element can generate a signal profile known to the sensor arrangement as it passes through the respective detection range. This profile can be present in the output signal or in raw signals generated by the detection device. For example, if the indicator element has an irregular shape, it will generate correspondingly irregular raw signals and / or output signals as it passes through the detection range.This irregularity can be detected by the sensor arrangement, particularly by the evaluation unit, so that it can be clearly determined in which detection area the indicator element is currently located. Raw signals can be, in particular, signals and / or data from which the output signal is generated.

[0044] Preferably, the sensor arrangement is configured to discard or set to a predetermined value the output signals of the detection elements in whose detection range the indicator element is not located. In particular, the discarding or setting to a predetermined value is performed by the evaluation unit.

[0045] Preferably, an actuating mechanism is further provided which has a transmission element which is displaceable in a transmission direction, wherein the actuating mechanism further has a sensor arrangement as described above, wherein the indicator element of the sensor arrangement is connected to the transmission element and the transmission element is designed to be displaced along the transmission direction, thereby actuating a device operatively connected to the actuating mechanism.

[0046] Preferably, the actuating mechanism includes an actuator, in particular an electric one, which is designed to move the transmission element along the transmission direction.

[0047] Preferably, a clutch actuator is further provided, which has a transmission element that is displaceable in a transmission direction. The clutch actuator further comprises a sensor arrangement as described above, wherein the indicator element of the sensor arrangement is connected to the transmission element, and the transmission element is configured to be displaced along the transmission direction, thereby actuating a clutch. Preferably, the clutch actuator has an actuator, in particular an electric one, configured to displace the transmission element along the transmission direction.

[0048] Preferably, a method is provided that is suitable for operating a sensor arrangement as described above. The method comprises the following steps: Capturing an indicator element in a capture area of ​​one of at least two capture elements in which the indicator element is located; Outputting a signal corresponding to the position of the indicator element within the detection range in which the indicator element is located; correcting the output signals of the detection elements in whose detection ranges the indicator element is not located by setting these output signals to a predetermined limit; determining the position of the indicator element from the output signals of the individual detection elements; and determining the position of a transmission element, which is provided to be movable on a transmission path parallel to a transmission direction, from the position of the indicator element.

[0049] Alternatively, it is also possible to determine the position of the transmission element directly from the output signals of the individual detection elements.

[0050] This method for operating a sensor arrangement described above preferably comprises the following steps: Capturing an indicator element in a capture area of ​​one of at least two capture elements in which the indicator element is located; Outputting a signal that corresponds to the position of the indicator element within the detection range in which the indicator element is located; correcting the output signals of the detection elements in whose detection ranges the indicator element is not located by setting these output signals to a predetermined limit; determining the position of the transmission element, which is provided to be movable on the transmission path parallel to the transmission direction, from the output signals of the individual detection elements.

[0051] For a person skilled in the art, further process steps and variations of the process can be derived from the characteristics of the objects described above.

[0052] Preferably, a method as described above is further provided. The method comprises the following steps for calibrating the sensor arrangement: Moving an indicator element along the transmission direction and capturing the output signals of the capture elements; defining the capture areas based on the output signals; setting limits for the output signals if the indicator element is not within the defined capture area.

[0053] Preferably, the detection ranges and the output signal limits are defined such that the detection range and the path traveled by the indicator element have a linear relationship. This is particularly true when the detection element detects an angle between the indicator element and the corresponding detection element, such as a magnetic angle. As soon as the relationship between the path traveled by the indicator element and the output signal of the corresponding detection element is no longer linear, the limit is set so that the output signal now outputs a value corresponding to a boundary of the detection range. This boundary can be a first or second boundary in the transmission direction, i.e., a beginning or an end of the detection range.

[0054] For a person skilled in the art, further process steps and variations of the process can be derived from the characteristics of the objects described above.

[0055] The invention is explained below with reference to preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0056] In detail, it shows Fig. 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the sensor arrangement, Fig. 2 is a top view of a support element with detection elements arranged offset from the direction of transmission, and Fig. 3 is a signal waveform of the output signals of four detection elements of a sensor arrangement, as is the case, for example, in Fig. 1 and 2 shown.

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the sensor arrangement.

[0058] A sensor arrangement 1 is shown in conjunction with a transmission element 2, which can be displaced in a transmission direction x1. An electric actuator 3 is optionally provided for this displacement. The transmission element 2 is designed here as a push rod, which can, for example, interact with a clutch to engage or disengage the clutch. The push rod extends in the transmission direction x1.

[0059] Also shown is a transmission path s, which extends between a first left end position and a second right end position parallel to the transmission direction x1. In the illustrated embodiment, a position P of the transmission element 2 is defined as the position of the rightmost end of the transmission element 2 in the drawing, where a position P of the transmission element 2 between the two end positions of the transmission path s is shown.

[0060] It should be noted that the drawings are not to scale, but are intended only to illustrate the principle of the invention. For example, actuator 3 and transmission element 2 are shown in Fig. 1 The two components are shown directly next to each other. However, this is not necessarily the case. The actuator 3 can also set the transmission element 2 in motion via a gearbox, which is not shown here. Furthermore, the transmission element 2 is shown here in a position P located in the middle of the transmission path s.

[0061] The sensor arrangement 1 shown serves to determine the position P of the transmission element 2 which is provided to be displaceable on the transmission path s by means of the electric actuator 3 parallel to the transmission direction x1, wherein the sensor arrangement 1 has the following features: an indicator element 1a which is provided on the transmission element 2 and which can be moved together with the transmission element 2 parallel to the transmission direction x1, detection elements 1b which are each configured to output a signal which enables the position of the indicator element 1a to be determined at least along a section of the transmission direction x1 when the indicator element 1a is in a detection area of ​​the respective detection element 1b, wherein the detection elements 1b are spaced apart from each other in the transmission direction x1 and have at least a first detection element 1b' and a second detection element 1b", wherein the first detection element 1b' is positioned at a smaller distance to the actuator 3 parallel to the transmission direction x1 than the second detection element 1b", and an evaluation unit 4 which is configured toto determine the position P of the transmission element 2 on the transmission path s from the output signals of the detection elements 1b.

[0062] In particular, the sensor arrangement 1 shown here operates such that the detection elements 1b detect the indicator element 1a as soon as it is within the respective detection range of the respective detection element 1b. As a result, the detection elements 1b output a corresponding signal. The evaluation unit 4 then determines the position P of the transmission element 2 from the output signals.

[0063] The sensor arrangement is designed to correct the output signals of the detection elements 1b before the evaluation unit 4 determines the position P of the transmission element 2 on the transmission path s.

[0064] The actuator 3 is arranged here behind the detection elements 1b, opposite to the transmission direction x1.

[0065] The detection elements 1b are designed as Hall effect chips and arranged in a common plane 1d. The plane 1d is formed by a support element, namely a printed circuit board 1c (PCB). Accordingly, the indicator element 1a is magnetically designed, or rather, designed as a magnet, preferably as a ring magnet, so that the detection elements 1b can output a corresponding signal in response to the detection of the indicator element 1a when the indicator element 1a is located within a detection area of ​​a detection element 1b or passes through this area when moved along the transmission direction x1.

[0066] The detection elements 1b have a detection direction x2, which is defined as the central direction of the detection area of ​​the respective detection element 1b. This ultimately describes the direction in which the respective detection area, and thus the respective detection element 1b, is oriented. In this case, all detection elements 1b, or rather their detection directions x2, are aligned parallel to each other. Furthermore, the orientations of the detection elements 1b, or rather the detection directions x2, are perpendicular to the plane 1d formed by the circuit board 1c.

[0067] The plane 1d is inclined relative to the transmission direction x1 such that the distance d1 of the first transmission element 1b' to the transmission direction x1 is greater than the distance d2 of the second transmission element 1b" to the transmission direction x1, or in this example: greater than the distance of all further transmission elements 1b to the transmission direction x1. The distances are defined in a second direction, which in this case is oriented perpendicular to the transmission direction x1 and simultaneously extends downwards in the drawing plane.

[0068] This means that the air gap between indicator element 1a and the first detection element 1b' is larger than the air gap between indicator element 1a and the second detection element 1b. This means that the output signal of the first detection element 1b' in response to the detected indicator element 1a will be comparatively weaker. To compensate for this, the sensitivity of the first detection element 1b', which is positioned here at the greatest distance d1 from the transmission direction x1, can be increased. Alternatively, the sensitivity of all detection elements 1b can be adjusted accordingly to compensate for any deterioration in the detection of indicator element 1a due to the increased distance of each detection element 1b from the transmission direction x1.

[0069] As can be seen from the drawing, increasing the distance of the detection elements 1b to the transmission direction x1 has resulted in them now being located at a greater distance from the actuator 3. This is a significant advantage of this arrangement, as it reduces the disruptive influence of the actuator 3, caused by magnetic interference fields it generates, on the detection elements 1b and especially on the first detection element 1b', which is closest to the actuator 3 in the opposite direction to the transmission direction x1.

[0070] The evaluation unit 4 receives all output signals from the detection elements 1b, which are routed to the evaluation unit 4 via the circuit board 1c, and determines the position P of the transmission element from this.

[0071] In the configuration shown, the detection areas are arranged so that they blend seamlessly into one another. This allows the position of the indicator element, and thus the position P of the transmission element 2 on the transmission path x1, to be determined along the transmission direction x1 as follows:

[0072] In this description, the transmission element 2 is moved by the actuator 3 in the transmission direction x1, with the movement starting in a position corresponding to the first end position of the transmission element 2. In this position P, the indicator element 1a is at the beginning of the detection range of the first detection element 1b', so that the output signal of the first detection element 1b' corresponds to the lower limit. This can be zero. The output signal of the other detection elements 1b also corresponds to their lower limit in this case. This can each be zero. Alternatively, the lower limit can also correspond to a value other than zero.In particular, it may be provided that the output signal of a detection element 1b between the lower and upper limit is continuously rising or falling depending on the position of the indicator element 1a and is in particular linearly dependent on the position of the indicator element 1a.

[0073] A total output signal generated by the evaluation unit 4, calculated by adding the individual output signals, can therefore be zero or, more generally, correspond to the sum of the lower limits. The evaluation unit interprets this as the position on the transmission path s, and is configured to interpret this value of the total output signal as the position P in the first end position. This can be the position of the indicator element or directly of the transmission element. If the transmission element 2 is now moved in the transmission direction x1, the indicator element 1a passes through the detection range of the first detection element 1b', which preferably outputs a signal linearly proportional to its position within the detection range. This signal corresponds to the position of the indicator element 1a within the detection range of the first detection element 1b'.The output signals of the other detection elements 1b remain at their respective lower limits at this point, as the indicator element is within the detection range of the first detection element. These output signals can be zero. The total output signal can now be determined again by adding the individual output signals. Compared to the first end position, the total output signal has now increased by the proportion that the first detection element 1b' now outputs according to the position of the indicator element 1a within the detection range. This signal value is now interpreted by the evaluation unit 4 as indicating that the indicator element 1a, or directly the transmission element 2, has traveled a first distance in the transmission direction x1. If the indicator element 1a completely traverses the detection range of the first detection element 1b' and leaves it in the transmission direction x1, the output signal of the first detection element is set to the upper limit.The output signal of the next detection element 1b", whose detection range is now being traversed by the indicator element, now outputs a signal corresponding to the position of the indicator element 1a within this detection range. The other detection elements 1b, positioned in the transmission direction and not yet traversed, continue to output their lower limit. The total output signal, which the evaluation unit now determines by adding the individual output signals, therefore corresponds to a position of the transmission element 2 along the transmission path s that lies within the detection range of the currently traversed detection element 1b". The upper limit, which the first detection element 1b' now outputs, provides an offset that, when added together, corresponds to the section already traversed, which is covered by the detection range of the first detection element 1b'.Following this scheme, all detection areas of the detection elements 1b can now be traversed successively, with the total output signal ultimately corresponding to the position of the indicator element 1a or the transmission element 2. Once the second end position of the transmission path s is reached, preferably all output signals of the detection elements 1b are set to their respective upper limits. The evaluation unit 4 then interprets the sum of these output signals as the maximum travel distance of the indicator element 1a or directly of the transmission element 2, and thus as the end position.

[0074] Fig. 2 shows a top view of an arrangement of detection elements in which the detection elements are arranged offset from the direction of transmission.

[0075] The detection elements 1b shown in this drawing are arranged offset from the transmission direction x1. This can be attributed in particular to the configuration of Fig. 1 be applied. Then the direction of view would be in Fig. 2 opposite the direction of detection x2 from Fig. 1 be directed. The offset to the transmission direction x1 refers here to a third direction perpendicular to the drawing plane. Fig. 1 is oriented.

[0076] In the configuration shown, at least one of the detection elements 1b is arranged transversely to the transmission direction x1. This means that at least one detection element 1b is not aligned with the transmission direction x1. In particular, such an arrangement of the detection elements can be chosen which, in turn, allows for the greatest possible distance to electrical components, such as the actuator 3, thereby minimizing interference with the detection elements 1b caused by magnetic fields generated by these components. In the illustration shown, this is achieved in particular by the arrangement of the first detection element 1b', which, due to the offset transversely to the transmission direction x1, has a greater distance to the actuator 3 compared to an arrangement without an offset.

[0077] In the configuration shown, the indicator element 1a is preferably designed such that it can be detected by any detection element 1b, regardless of whether the latter is aligned with the transmission direction x1 or not. This can be achieved by designing the indicator element 1a to be sufficiently wide perpendicular to the transmission direction x1, so that it covers all detection areas as it traverses the transmission path.

[0078] Fig. 3 shows a signal waveform of the output signals from four detection elements of a sensor arrangement, such as those found in Fig. 1 and 2 shown.

[0079] The output signals of the individual detection elements are labeled S0, S1, S2, and Sn. More than four or fewer than four detection elements can be used, with each element spaced apart from the others along the transmission direction. The waveforms of the output signals S0, S1, S2, and Sn are plotted against the position of the indicator element along the transmission path. Moving to the right, the graph depicts a progressive movement of the indicator element in the transmission direction.

[0080] It can be seen that the output signals are capped at the top and bottom with a first and second limit value respectively, and have a linear range in between in which there is a linear relationship between the position of the indicator element on the transmission path and the respective output signal S0, S1, S2 and Sn.

[0081] The detection elements are arranged along the transmission path in such a way that only one output signal S0, S1, S2 and Sn corresponds to a value from the linear range of a detection element, while the other detection elements output signals S0, S1, S2 and Sn according to their first or second limit value.

[0082] An evaluation unit 4, as used in Fig. 1 As shown, for example, by adding the output signals S0, S1, S2, and Sn, a total signal can be generated that corresponds to the position of the indicator element on the transmission path. The position of the transmission element can then be determined from this. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0083] 1 Sensor arrangement 1a Indicator element 1b Detection elements 1b' First detection element 1b" Second detection element 1c Circuit board 1d Plane 2 Transmission element 3 Actuator 4 Evaluation unit d1 Distance d2 Distance P Position s Transmission path S0 Output signal S1 Output signal S2 Output signal Sn Output signal x1 Transmission direction x2 Detection direction

Claims

1. Sensor assembly (1) for detecting a position (P) of a transmission element (2) provided displaceably on a transmission path (s) parallel to a transmission direction (x1), wherein the sensor assembly (1) has the following: - an indicator element (1a), which is designed to be provided on the transmission element (2) and is designed to be displaced together with the transmission element (2) parallel to the transmission direction (x1), - detection elements (1b), which are each designed to output an output signal, which makes it possible to determine the position of the indicator element (1a) at least along a section of the transmission direction (x1), when the indicator element (1a) is located in a detection range of the respective detection element (1b), wherein the detection elements (1b) are arranged spaced apart from one another in the transmission direction (x1) and have at least a first detection element (1b') and a second detection element (1b"), and - an evaluation unit (4), which is designed to determine the position (P) of the transmission element (2) on the transmission path (s) from the output signals of the detection elements (1b), wherein the sensor assembly (1) is designed to subject the output signals of the detection elements (1b) to a correction, before the position (P) of the transmission element (2) on the transmission path (s) is determined by the evaluation unit (4), wherein the sensor assembly (1) is designed such that the output signal of each detection element (1b) is set to a first limit value, when the indicator element (1a) is located outside the detection range of the corresponding detection element (1b) in the transmission direction, and such that the output signal of each detection element (1b) is set to a second limit value, when the indicator element (1a) is located outside the detection range of the corresponding detection element (1b) counter to the transmission direction (x1), wherein the first limit value can be larger or smaller than the second limit value, and wherein the sensor assembly (1) is designed to add up the output signals of the individual detection elements (1b), whereby an overall signal, which is suitable for determining the position (P) of the transmission element (2) on the transmission path (s), is formed.

2. Sensor assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first detection element (1b') and the second detection element (1b") each have a detection direction (x2).

3. Sensor assembly (1) according to claim 2, wherein the detection directions (x2) of the first detection element (1b') and the second detection element (1b") are oriented parallel to one another.

4. Sensor assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection range of the detection elements (1b) has a linear relationship between the output signal and the position of the indicator element (1a).

5. Sensor assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first detection element (1b') and the second detection element (1b") are designed to interact with the indicator element (1a) according to the Hall principle, in order to output the respective output signal.

6. Sensor assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the indicator element (1a) is designed as a magnet, in particular as a ring magnet or as a segment magnet.

7. Sensor assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the detection elements (1b) is designed to output a predetermined output signal, when the indicator element (1a) is located in its detection range.

8. Sensor assembly (1) according to claim 7, wherein the sensor assembly (1) is designed to detect in which detection range the indicator element (1a) is located on the basis of the predetermined output signal.

9. Sensor assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the sensor assembly (1) is designed to discard or set the output signals of the detection elements (1b) in the detection range of which the indicator element (1b) is not located to a predetermined value.

10. Actuation mechanism with a transmission element (2), which is provided displaceably in a transmission direction (x1), and a sensor assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the indicator element (1a) of the sensor assembly (1) is connected to the transmission element (2) and the transmission element (2) is designed to be displaced along the transmission direction (x1), whereby a device that is operatively connected to the actuation mechanism is actuated.

11. Clutch actuator with a transmission element (2), which is provided displaceably in a transmission direction (x1), and a sensor assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the indicator element (1a) of the sensor assembly (1) is connected to the transmission element (2) and the transmission element (2) is designed to be displaced along the transmission direction (x1), whereby a clutch is actuated.

12. Method for operating a sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, with the following steps: Detecting an indicator element (1a) in a detection range of one of at least two detection elements (1b) in which the indicator element (1a) is located; Outputting an output signal, which corresponds to the position of the indicator element (1a) within the detection range in which the indicator element (1a) is located; Correcting the output signals of the detection elements (1b) in the detection ranges of which the indicator element (1a) is not located, by setting these output signals to a predetermined limit value; Determining the position of the indicator element from the output signals of the individual detection elements and determining a position (P) of a transmission element (2) provided displaceably on a transmission path (s) parallel to a transmission direction (x1) from the position of the indicator element, or Determining the position (P) of the transmission element (2) provided displaceably on the transmission path (s) parallel to the transmission direction (x1) from the output signals of the individual detection elements.

13. Method according to claim 12, with the following steps for calibrating the sensor assembly: Moving an indicator element (1a) along the transmission direction (x1) and detecting the output signals of the detection elements (1b), Establishing the detection ranges on the basis of the output signals, Setting limit values for the output signals, when the indicator element (1a) is not located in the established detection range.