Electromagnetic Actuator

Abstract

The electromagnetic actuator has a coil device having at least one coil core and a coil arranged circumferentially around the coil core, and a movable magnetic armature body as a movable actuator element that is movable by a magnetic field generated by the coil device, the armature body being supported by a support device and movable from a first position to a second position. The bearing device has at least two recesses in a first bearing section formed in the armature body, the recesses being integral with the armature body and configured in the form of at least two at least partially cylindrically shell-shaped recesses spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body, and at least two protuberances in a second bearing section formed on the actuator on the side of the coil device, the protuberances being configured in the form of at least two at least partially cylindrically shell-shaped protuberances spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body, the protuberances engaging in each of the recesses.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator comprising a coil arrangement having at least one coil core and coils arranged circumferentially around the coil core, and a movable magnetic armature body as a movable actuator element.

[0002] Electromagnetic actuators are known, for example in the form of electromagnetic switching devices or valve devices, for example in the form of electromagnetic relays or solenoid valves. Electromagnetic valves, for example in the form of tilting armature valves, are used, for example, as control valves for regulating the air pressure in vehicles, for example in commercial cars or buses for passenger transport. For example, a brake system for a vehicle with an electronic service brake system comprises at least one control valve for regulating the pressure.

[0003] An electromagnetic actuator in the form of a tilting armature valve is known, for example, from DE 10 2016105532 A1. The electromagnetic actuator has a coil arrangement with at least one coil core and coils arranged circumferentially around the coil core, and a movable magnetic armature body as actuator element. The armature body is supported in the coil arrangement via two balls which are pressed into the armature body.

[0004] Furthermore, further configurations of solenoid valves are known, as are described, for example, in DE 102014115207 A1, DE 102018123997 A1 or DE 10201415206 A1.

[0005] In known electromagnetic actuators, partially inaccurate armature positions can occur during operation, which can lead to more rapid wear of the bearing between the armature body and the coil arrangement.

[0006] If the armature body (or armature for short) is supported by a bearing assembly in known electromagnetic actuators, a complex production is often required, since the assembly of such a bearing assembly on the armature often requires multiple assembly steps with several elements that have to be manufactured independently of each other.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE The invention is based on the object of providing an electromagnetic actuator of the type mentioned at the outset, which can be manufactured in a simplified manner.

[0008] The invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator of the type mentioned at the outset as set forth in the accompanying claims. Advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims and the following description.

[0009] In particular, one aspect of the invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator comprising a coil arrangement with at least one coil core and a coil arranged circumferentially around the coil core, and a movable magnetic armature body as a movable actuator element, which is movable by a magnetic field generated by the coil arrangement. The armature body is supported by a bearing arrangement and is movable from a first position to a second position. The bearing arrangement has at least two recesses in a first bearing section formed in the armature body and at least two protuberances in a second bearing section formed in the actuator on the side of the coil arrangement. The recesses are integrated in the armature body and are configured in the form of at least two recesses formed at least partially cylindrically shell-like, spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body. The protuberances are configured in the form of at least two protuberances, at least partially cylindrically formed, spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body, the protuberances engaging with each of the recesses.

[0010] The electromagnetic actuator according to the invention allows the armature body to be reliably and easily movable in the electromagnetic actuator. In the case of the invention, separate bearing elements are not necessary, which reduces the number of components of the electromagnetic actuator and simplifies the assembly. Since the bearing device has a recess in the magnetic armature body, the bearing device has a positive effect on the magnetic flux in the armature body and its kinematic action on the armature body. Furthermore, the bearing device allows for a better and more accurate positioning of the armature body in the actuator element, in particular in the coil arrangement. The mirror-symmetrically designed shell-shaped bearing points allow for a symmetrical wear of the bearing device in the long term, so that the influence of wear on, in particular, the rotary positioning and thus on the function of the electromagnetic actuator is reduced.

[0011] Due to the recesses being configured as at least partially cylindrical shell-shaped recesses and the protuberances being at least partially cylindrical, the bearing device is able to absorb large transverse forces, in particular magnetic transverse forces, without the armature body being disengaged from the coil device even with small pressure forces. The distance between the recesses along the bearing axis of the armature body allows for centering by two abutment surfaces with a small distance between them. This improves the accuracy and functionality of the electromagnetic actuator over its lifetime. Furthermore, due to the integrated bearing device, manufacturing tolerances can be reduced.

[0012] The ridges are spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body and are at least partially cylindrical in shape, in particular the ridges are formed as a kind of semi-cylinder extending towards the armature body on the side of the coil arrangement.

[0013] The arrangement and shape of the protuberances correspond to the arrangement and shape of the depressions provided in the armature body, in particular the depressions are each provided as partially cylindrical depressions in the armature body.

[0014] The electromagnetic actuator according to the invention is preferably configured in the form of a solenoid valve, for example for a brake system of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, each one of the protuberances and each one of the recesses contact each other at two contact lines extending tangentially to the respective surfaces in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body. This results, among other things, in two spaced apart linear contact points (linear contacts) between the corresponding protuberances and recesses, which allows for precise guiding of the armature body without significant bearing play. The relatively small bearing play also increases the durability of the electromagnetic actuator.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the mutually engaging protuberances and recesses have different surface radii in the respective regions of the tangential contact lines (line contacts), which allows for a reliable and advantageous contact without play between the corresponding protuberances and recesses over a large range of movement of the armature body, which further reduces the wear of the bearing device, thereby improving the durability of the electromagnetic actuator.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the protuberances are flattened from a cylindrical shape in the area between the respective tangential contact lines (line contacts) and do not contact the respective depressions in the flattened areas. This avoids significant bearing play, since the highest point of the protuberance does not contact the depressions, but two points on the arc contact the depressions at tangent angles to each other. This ensures that the bearing device is sufficiently free of play over its lifespan.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, at least one of the recesses is configured such that the end face of the at least one of the recesses facing the other recess is curved, in particular spherical, or flattened from a cylindrical shell shape. This embodiment of the recess allows for improved bearing centering, which can also reduce wear of the bearing device.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, bearing centering along the bearing axis is performed by an end face of at least one of the recesses in cooperation with a respective protuberance.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, at least one of the protuberances is configured such that the end face of the at least one of the protuberances facing the other protuberance is curved, in particular spherical, or flattened from a cylindrical shape. This embodiment of the depression allows for improved bearing centering, which can also reduce wear of the bearing device.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, bearing centering along the bearing axis is performed by an end face of at least one of the protuberances cooperating with a respective recess.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the axis of symmetry of the recess in the axial direction of the recess (and therefore in the direction of the bearing axis) is arranged below the surface of the armature adjacent to the recess. This means that the theoretical axis of rotation of the recess is arranged below the surface of the armature body adjacent to the recess such that a straight edge tangentially emerges from the cylindrical shape. The intermediate section between the surface of the armature body and the beginning of the cylindrical shape of the recess can therefore be formed approximately straight in cross section. This allows a greater penetration depth into the armature body due to the ridge. This avoids the armature body from jumping out of the guide provided by the bearing device and ensures emergency functionality, for example in case of weakening or loss of the spring force pressing the armature body against the second bearing section.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the electromagnetic actuator has a spring element for pressing the armature body against the second bearing section. The spring element may be configured as a leaf spring, a torsion coil spring or a wire bending element. This ensures a reliable support of the armature body in the coil arrangement. This ensures that the wear between the armature body and the second bearing section, in particular the wear between the recesses and the protuberances, remains small, which improves the durability of the electromagnetic actuator.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, a spring element presses the armature body against the second bearing section in the first position to hold it in place.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the electromagnetic actuator further comprises at least one support element, which is arranged on the side of the armature body facing away from the coil arrangement, facing the recess and supports the armature body as it descends away from the protuberance, thereby preventing the armature body from jumping out of the guide provided by the protuberance and ensuring emergency functionality, for example in case of breakage or disengagement of the spring element. If a play-free support of the armature body in the "descended" state is not required, the at least one support element also allows the above-mentioned spring element (bearing spring) to be omitted.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the protuberance has a depth of penetration into the recess dimensioned such that the bearing axis is located deeper than the surface of the armature body outside the recess, which prevents the armature body from jumping out of the guide and prevents the armature body from slipping off or disengaging from the coil arrangement and ensures emergency functionality.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the armature body is configured as a plate armature.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the electromagnetic actuator is configured as an electromagnetic switching or valve device with an armature body as a switching or valve element, in particular as an electromechanical relay or solenoid valve.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the electromagnetic actuator is configured as a tilting armature valve.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the electromagnetic actuator is configured as a solenoid valve for a pressure regulation module of the vehicle.

[0031] The embodiments described herein may be used together or in any combination.

[0032] The invention will now be explained in more detail on the basis of the figures shown in the drawing. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary tilting armature valve, in which in principle the electromagnetic actuator according to the invention can be used; [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary tilting armature valve, in which in principle the electromagnetic actuator according to the invention can be used; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary known armature body for use in the tilting armature valve according to FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an electromagnetic actuator according to the invention perpendicular to the bearing axis A, as can be used, for example, in a tilting armature valve according to FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of a bearing arrangement according to an embodiment of an electromagnetic actuator according to the invention, where a cutting plane along the bearing axis A of FIG. 3 has been selected. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a protuberance of a bearing device of one embodiment of an electromagnetic actuator according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of two recesses disposed in an armature body of a bearing device of one embodiment of an electromagnetic actuator according to the present invention;

[0034] Figure 1 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of a tilting armature valve 100 according to Figures 1A and 1B, in which an electromagnetic actuator 105 according to the invention, as shown in the partial excerpts in Figures 3 to 6, can in principle be used. In this case, Figure 1 shows an example of practical use of an electromagnetic actuator according to the invention based on a tilting armature valve. Figure 2 shows an exemplary armature body 115 known from DE 10 2016 105 532 A1, which can in principle also be used in an actuator according to the invention, except for the bearings (provided in the region of the ridges 160, 160a).

[0035] 3, 4 and 6 show in more detail an embodiment of the armature body 115 according to the invention, and in Fig. 3, 4 and 5 show in more detail an embodiment of the coil former 320 according to the invention by way of an example, which embodiments can essentially be easily adapted by a person skilled in the art to the tilting armature valve according to Fig. 1 and to the armature according to Fig. 2. In this connection, it is to be noted that the basic functional scheme of electromagnetic devices such as switching or valve devices with an armature body movable by a magnetic field as switching or valve element is known to a person skilled in the art.

[0036] The tilting armature valve 100 can in principle be an embodiment of the tilting armature valve 100 shown in DE 102016105532 A1. In one variant, the tilting armature valve 100 can be a solenoid valve, which is marked with the reference number 100 in FIG. 1. However, other embodiments are also conceivable, for example in connection with solenoid valves as described in the other documents mentioned above. The solenoid valves and their components as well as the use thereof described in DE 102016105532 A1 are also hereby incorporated by reference into the disclosure of the present invention.

[0037] 1A shows a cross-sectional view of a tilting armature valve 100, where the armature is in a first position. The tilting armature valve 100 comprises a coil element 110, an armature body (or armature for short) 115, a spring 120, a sealing element 125, and a cover shell 130. In this case, the coil element 110 comprises at least one coil core 135 oriented along a longitudinal axis 137, a coil former 128 arranged circumferentially around the coil core 135, and a coil 140 arranged circumferentially around the coil former 128, the coil 140 comprising a stack of coil windings (not shown in detail). The end faces of the armature 115 are supported by bearings 145. The armature 115 is movable between a first position 147 and a second position 149. In this case, the armature 115 is configured to be moved from a first position 147 to a second (attracted) position 149 when the coil 140 is activated. The armature 115 can be held in the second position 149 when the coil 140 is activated. A sealing element 125 is further arranged on the side of the armature 115 facing away from the coil element 110. A valve seat 150 with an outlet 155 and an inlet 157 for a fluid 158 is formed in the cover shell 130. Here, the outlet 155 can be sealed fluid-tight by the sealing element 125 when the armature 115 is arranged in the first position 147. In this case, the sealing element 125 can further act as a damper element to prevent impact of the armature 115 against the valve seat 150. In this case, the sealing element 125 can be attached to the armature 115 or to the carrier element by vulcanization. It is further contemplated that the angle at which the armature 115 or sealing element 125 impacts the valve seat 150 may be created by an angled nozzle, or an angled shaped sealing element 125, or a curved armature 115. Such a nozzle, not explicitly shown in FIG. 1A, does not necessarily have to be integrated into the tilting armature valve 100, but may be provided by an external housing portion.

[0038] It is further contemplated that the valve seat 150 may be located on the coil element 110, although this is not explicitly shown in Fig. 1A for the sake of clarity. In this case, an actuator mediating the release of the outlet by the armature 115 may be advantageous.

[0039] The armature 115 has at least one protuberance 160, which in this embodiment is at least partially circular in the bearing section 162, and which engages in a recess 165 or an opening arranged in a section of the housing 170 of the tilting armature valve 100 facing the protuberance 160. This allows the armature 115 to slide in the recess when moving from the first position 147 to the second position 149 after the current flow through the coil 140 is switched on, and at the same time holds the armature 115 in a fixed position in the housing 170 or against the cover shell 130. The recess is trapezoidally shaped so that the friction when the protuberance slides over the surface of the recess 165 is as small as possible. The recess 165 can be manufactured, for example, from a plastic material.

[0040] The spring 120, which in this example is configured as a leaf spring, is arranged in the bearing section on the side of the armature 115 opposite the coil 140. In this case, the spring 120 is used to press, for example, bearing balls pressed into the armature 115 into a (for example trapezoidal) counter shell or recess 165 provided in the housing 170 of the coil element 110 without play. The armature 115 can be fixed by the spring 120 so that it is held in a predetermined position by the spring 120. This offers the advantage that a constant biasing force can be applied to the armature 115 and that the force applied by the spring 120 to the armature 115 can be introduced into the armature 115 as close as possible to the force application point located on the bearing axis.

[0041] Alternatively, the armature 115 may be suspended from the coil element 110. In this case, the spring 120, which is configured for example as a leaf spring, could be omitted.

[0042] 1B shows a cross-sectional view of the tilting armature valve 100 with the armature 115 in the second position 149. In this case, the current through the coil 140 is switched on, attracting the armature 115, thereby establishing a magnetic field as shown by the magnetic field lines 180. When the current through the coil 140 is switched off, the armature 115 can return to the first position 147, for example, by gravity or by the spring force of the return spring 195 as shown.

[0043] 2 shows a perspective view of an exemplary armature 115, also known from DE 10 2016105532 A1, for use in a tilting armature valve 100. The armature 115 is configured here as a plate armature. In addition to the sealing element 125, the armature 115 has two pressed-in balls as ridges 160, 160a, which are arranged in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature 115 during rotation after the current through the coil 140 is switched on. This means that the ridges 160 and 160a are arranged side by side along the bearing axis A. The armature 115 has a spring mounting section 196 formed in its center which cooperates with the return spring 195 to prevent the return spring 195 from slipping off the armature 115 .

[0044] Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an electromagnetic actuator according to the invention perpendicular to the bearing axis A, as can be used, for example, in a tilting armature valve according to Figure 1. Identical, functionally identical or similar components in Figures 1 to 6 are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0045] The bearing axis A is disposed parallel to an end face of the coil former 328. The end face 328a preferably lies in a plane oriented generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 137 of the coil core 135.

[0046] 3 shows the left part of the coil core 135, which has a central recess into which a return spring 195 is inserted. The return spring 195 is configured to bias the armature body 115 to a starting position when the electromagnetic actuator 105 is not energized. In relation to FIG. 1, this means that the armature body 115 is biased to the first position 147. A coil former 328 is arranged on the radially outer surface of the coil core 135. In the part of the coil former 328 shown in FIG. 3, a seal ring receiving chamber 189 is formed, which is arranged in the form of an annular recess or cutout in the radially outer surface of the coil former 328. Located within the sealing ring chamber 189 is, for example, a sealing element 190, in particular an O-ring, which cooperates with the housing 170 surrounding the coil former 328, in order to prevent fluid passage between the area in which the armature body 115 is positioned and the area in which the coil 140 is positioned.

[0047] The coil former 328 has a second bearing section 302 of the bearing arrangement 300. However, the bearing section 302 can essentially also be arranged on other elements of the actuator 105, for example on a housing part of the housing 170 or on a separate element (see the plastic element 165 in FIG. 1A) on the end face of the coil former 328. The second bearing section 302 is formed with at least two ridges 320a and 320b, of which only the first ridge 320a is shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3. According to one embodiment, the armature body 115 is supported on one side on the actuator 105 as shown. In particular, the bearing arrangement 300 is located on the end face of the armature 115 and thus in the radially outer area of ​​the armature 115.

[0048] In this embodiment, the ridges 320a and 320b are integrally formed with the coil former 328. Alternatively, the second bearing section 302 with the ridges 320a and 320b can be arranged on another element of the coil arrangement or on a housing that can be arranged between the coil former 328 and the armature body 115, for example the element with the recess 165 in FIG. 1A. In other words, the ridges 320a and 320b are formed on the component that is closest starting from the armature body 115 in the direction of the coil 140. Although it is preferable to form the ridges 320a and 320b integrally, it is also possible to assemble them later.

[0049] The ridges 320a and 320b are configured in the form of at least two ridges 320a and 320b spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis A of the armature body 115 and formed at least partially cylindrical. The cylindrical portions of the ridges 320a and 320b are arranged in respective post sections 322a and 322b extending from the end face of the coil former 328, and therefore the cylindrical portions of the ridges 320a and 320b do not terminate directly at the end face 328a of the coil former 328, but transition first into the post sections 322a and 322b. The post sections 322a and 322b form the transition from the cylindrical portions of the ridges 320a and 320b to the end face 328a of the coil former 328. Between the ridges 320a and 320b in the direction of the bearing axis A is located the coil former section 323, which lies, for example, in a plane in which the end face 328a of the coil former 328 is also located. The pillar sections 322a and 322b may optionally be provided on the electromagnetic actuator 105.

[0050] The ridges 320a and 320b are flattened from a cylindrical shape in the respective regions 333a and 333b between the two tangential contact lines 331 and 332. The flattened regions 333a and 333b can in particular be formed parallel to the end face 328a of the coil former 328 or to the end face of the element of the coil arrangement on which the ridges 320a and 320b are provided. In the flattened regions 333a and 333b, the respective ridges 320a and 320b are not in contact with the corresponding recesses 310a and 310b of the first bearing section 301 of the bearing arrangement 300. The flattened regions 333a and 333b are used for robustness over the error range of the bearing arrangement and prevent large bearing play. This is because the highest point does not contact each of the depressions 320a and 320b, but rather two points on the arc (at the tangential contact lines or line contacts 331 and 332) contact each of the depressions 320a and 320b at tangent angles to each other.

[0051] The protuberances 320a and 320b of the second bearing section 302 cooperate with the recesses 310a and 310b of the first bearing section 301. The recesses 310a and 310b and the first bearing section 301 are formed in the radially outer (end face) region of the armature body 115. The recesses 310a and 310b are integrated in the armature body 115 and are configured in the form of at least two recesses, at least partially cylindrically shell-shaped, spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis A of the armature body 115. In other words, the recesses 310a and 310b and the protuberances 320a and 320b are configured to cooperate in the assembled state and to form together the bearing device 300. A surface section 317 of the surface 315a of the armature body 115 is arranged between the recesses 310a and 310b, as viewed in the direction of the bearing axis A. This surface section 317 is used to spatially separate the recesses 310a and 310b along the bearing axis A.

[0052] The slope of the side walls of the recesses 310a, 310b depends on the desired armature stroke angle and should be selected to provide self-locking in the event of a lateral force on the armature body 115, thus preventing the armature body 115 from lifting off the protuberances 320a, 320b.

[0053] An at least partially cylindrical shape in the sense of the present invention implies that at least one partial surface is provided that has a cylindrical shape or a partially cylindrical shape (for example a part of the circumferential surface that is cylindrically shaped). The protuberance is not necessarily formed as a "pure" cylinder. It is sufficient if a partial region of the surface of the protuberance has the shape of the cylindrically shaped circumferential surface. The same applies to depressions that are formed at least partially like a cylindrical shell.

[0054] In Fig. 3, the armature body 115 is arranged such that the surface 315a of the armature body 115 faces the end face 328a of the coil former 328. The armature body 115 also has an opposite surface 315b, which faces away from the coil former 328 and thus also from the second bearing section 302. Opposite the surface 315b of the armature body 115, for example, the cover shell 130 (or another housing part of the housing 170) is arranged. On the surface facing the armature body 115, a support element 131 is formed, which is located opposite the surface 315b of the armature body 115, in particular opposite the outward curve 340a formed by the recess 310a. The support element 131 structurally prevents the armature body 115 from slipping off the coil former 328, which would then no longer allow the armature body 115 to pivot, thereby enabling "emergency functionality". In other words, the support element 131 prevents the recesses 310a, 310b from slipping off the protuberances 320a, 320b. Alternatively, the cover shell 130 may be constructed without the support element 131.

[0055] The bearing arrangement 300, which does not require needle bearings and axial guidance of the needle bearings by springs, is a structurally simple solution for a reliable and low-wear bearing arrangement. This allows the elimination of complex springs. The two depressions 310a, 310b in cooperation with the two protuberances 320a, 320b allow the two axial directions to be fixed and the axial guidance by the springs 120 to be eliminated. The bearing arrangement 300 allows the realization of a bearing with favorable centering along the bearing axis A, which results in smaller magnetic transverse forces and thus less bearing wear. Furthermore, in view of easier manufacture, it is advantageous that the depressions 310a, 310b can be molded integrally into the armature body 115.

[0056] Based on the embodiment of the bearing device 300, the armature body 115 can be supported without play without the need for a spring 120. The use of the spring 120 only allows an even more advantageous fixation of the armature body 115 to the coil former 328. If a spring 120 is used in the electromagnetic actuator 105, a malfunction of this spring 120 can additionally be compensated for by the support element 131. The large penetration depth of the protuberances 320a, 320b into the recesses 310a, 310b prevents the armature body 115 from jumping out of the guide of the bearing device 300 and ensures emergency functionality of the electromagnetic actuator 105.

[0057] FIG. 4 shows a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of the bearing device 300, where the cutting plane extends along the bearing axis A. FIG. 4 shows the arrangement of the recesses 310a and 310b with respect to the respective protuberances 320a and 320b. The recesses 310a and 310b have end faces 311a, 311b, which are advantageously formed spherically and point towards the other recesses 310a and 310b, respectively. Alternatively, the end faces 311a and 311b may be formed flat. The end face 314b of the recess 310b, which is opposite to the end face 311b, extends approximately at a right angle to the surface 315a of the armature body 115. The end face 314a of the recess 310a, which is opposite to the end face 311a, also extends approximately at a right angle to the surface 315a of the armature body 115.

[0058] The ridges 320a and 320b also have mutually facing spherically shaped end faces 321a and 321b, respectively. Alternatively, the end faces 321a and 321b may be at least partially flattened. The end faces thus formed also contribute to the axial centering of the bearing device along the bearing axis A.

[0059] A spherically shaped surface in the sense of the present disclosure especially implies that at least one partial surface is provided with a three-dimensionally curved, especially outwardly curved (convex), especially spherical or partially spherical shape (e.g. a part of a spherically shaped surface). In this case, what is more important is a spatially three-dimensionally curved or rounded shape, e.g. a strictly circular arc shape is not essential, although a strictly circular arc shape may also have special advantages with regard to axial centering. Thus, for example ellipses or other spatially or three-dimensionally rounded or curved shapes should also be included together in this term. The end surface is not necessarily formed as a "pure" sphere. It is sufficient if a partial region of the surface of the end surface has a three-dimensionally curved shape. The same applies to the corresponding end surface in the recess, which correspondingly has a three-dimensionally curved, especially inwardly curved (concave), especially spherical shape. In the case of flattened surfaces, it is also possible to provide correspondingly flat (planar) shaped surfaces (without curved components), which form part of the surface in question.

[0060] The above-described embodiment of the depressions 310a and 310b and the protuberances 320a and 320b allows a sufficiently play-free support of the armature body 115 in the coil former 328. This allows for little wear and has a positive effect on the durability of the electromagnetic actuator 105. Moreover, this embodiment allows for an axial orientation along the bearing axis A, which also allows for the absorption of lateral forces without substantially limiting the functionality of the electromagnetic actuator 105.

[0061] 5 shows an enlarged perspective view of one of the ridges of the bearing device 300 of the electromagnetic actuator 105, here ridge 320b. As already mentioned, ridge 320b extends away from end face 328a of the coil former 328. It is followed by post section 322b, which flows in the direction of extension from end face 328a of the coil former 328, i.e. with a curved transition. In the right region of ridge 320b, the substantially cylindrical portion 313b of ridge 320b extends from post section 322b, and in the left region of ridge 320b, the spherical portion of ridge 320b extends from post section 322b. The spherical portion of the ridge 320b has a spherically formed end surface 321b which merges into a flattened area 333b in a cylindrical portion 313b of the ridge 320b at the end of the ridge 320b located away from the end surface 328a. The description of the ridge 320b applies in a similar (mirror symmetrical) manner to the opposite ridge 320a, which is not shown here. The circumferential surface of the ridges 320a, 320b is thus formed in the cylindrical portion 313b according to the principle of a spherical roller bearing.

[0062] 6 shows an enlarged perspective view of the armature body 115 of the bearing device 300 with the recesses 310a and 310b arranged thereon. The spring mounting section 196 cooperates with the return spring 195 as described above. In this embodiment, the armature body 115 has end faces 311a and 311b facing each other along the bearing axis A, which are formed spherically. Alternatively, the end faces 311a and 311b may be formed by flattening a cylindrical shape. The end faces 311a, 311b are continuous with the respective substantially cylindrical portions 312a, 312b (similar to the ridges).

[0063] That is, the electromagnetic actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention envisages a bearing concept using an at least partially cylindrical plain bearing with a centrally located interruption as an axial fixation. This concept can be advantageously used in tilting and / or pivoting armature electromagnet arrangements in particular. The curved recess also increases the magnetic resistance of the bearing, which increases the path length of the magnetic flux, which directs the magnetic flux towards an area with a larger lever arm (compared to the bearing arrangement 300) and thus increases the force acting on the armature.

[0064] The bearing socket, here the recess, is configured in the form of two axially arranged, at least partially cylindrical, half-shells spaced apart from each other, which are integrated into the armature body and preferably have a minimal distance between the two recesses. The end faces facing the respective bearing socket may be spherically or flattened. These end faces can be used for axial bearing centering. The at least partially cylindrical bearing block, here the bumps 320a and 320b, can be provided on the component or element located closest in the direction of the coil 140, for example on the coil former 328. Its shape corresponds approximately to the inverse shape of the bearing socket, in particular to the inverse shape of two axially arranged bumps shaped as at least partially semi-cylinders with spherical or flattened end faces facing each other. In addition, the ridge can be flattened at its uppermost surface facing the depression (hence the uppermost tangential or line contact). Such a ridge is used for robustness over error regions and prevents large bearing play, since the highest point does not contact the depression. This makes the bearing somewhat play-free and allows the components to fit together more quickly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] 100 Tilting armature valve 105 Electromagnetic Actuator 110 Coil element 115 Armature body 120 Spring 125 Sealing Element 128 Coil former 130 Cover Shell 131 Supporting elements 135 Coil core 137 Longitudinal axis 140 Coil 145 Bearings 147 1st position 149 2nd position 150 Valve seat 155 Exit 157 Entrance 158 Fluid 160,160a ridge 162 Bearing Classification 165 Recess 170 Housing 180 Magnetic Field Lines 189 Seal Ring Containment Room 190 Sealing element 195 Return spring 196 Spring mounting category 300 Bearing device 301 First bearing section 302 Second Bearing Section 310a,b Depression 311a,b end face 312a, 312b Cylindrical part 313b Cylindrical part 314a,b End face 315a,b surface 317 Surface classification 320a,b ridge 321a,b end face 322a,b Column classification 323 Coil winding type classification 328 Coil winding former 328a end face 331 Tangential Contact Line 332 Tangential Contact Line 333a,b Flattened area 340a Outward Curve

Claims

1. An electromagnetic actuator (105), The electromagnetic actuator (105) is A coil device (128, 135, 140) including at least one coil core (135) and a coil (140) arranged in a circumferential direction around the coil core (135); a movable magnetic armature body (115) as a movable actuator element, movable by a magnetic field (180) generated by the coil device (128, 135, 140), the armature body (115) being supported by a support device (300) and movable from a first position (147) to a second position (149); having The support device (300) comprises: at least two recesses (310a, 310b) in a first bearing section (301) formed in the armature body (115), the recesses (310a, 310b) being integral with the armature body (115) and configured in the form of at least two recesses (310a, 310b) formed at least partially cylindrically in the form of shells spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis (A) of the armature body (115); at least two protuberances (320a, 320b) provided on a second bearing section (302) formed on the actuator (105) on the side of the coil device (128, 135, 140), the protuberances (320a, 320b) being configured in the form of at least two protuberances (320a, 320b) formed at least partially cylindrically spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis (A) of the armature body (115), the protuberances (320a, 320b) engaging with each of the recesses (310a, 310b); having An electromagnetic actuator (105).

2. a respective one of the protuberances (320a, 320b) and a respective one of the recesses (310a, 310b) are in contact with each other at two contact lines (331, 332) extending tangentially to their respective surfaces and in the direction of the bearing axis (A) of the armature body (115); 2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

3. each one of the protuberances (320a, 320b) and each one of the depressions (310a, 310b) have different surface radii in the respective regions of the tangential contact lines (331, 332); 3. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to claim 2.

4. the raised portions (320a, 320b) are flattened from the cylindrical shape in the regions (333a, 333b) between the respective tangential contact lines (331, 332), and the flattened regions (333a, 333b) are not in contact with the respective depressed portions (310a, 310b); 4. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to claim 2 or 3.

5. At least one of the recesses (310a, 310b) is The end surface (311a, 311b) of at least one of the recesses (310a, 310b) facing the other recess (310a, 310b) It is configured to be curved, in particular spherical, or flattened from a cylindrical shell-like shape; Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the end face (311a, 311b) of the at least one of the recesses (310a, 310b) in cooperation with the respective raised portion (320a, 320b) provides bearing centering along the bearing axis (A); 6. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to claim 5.

7. At least one of the ridges (320a, 320b) is The end surface (321a, 321b) of the at least one of the raised portions (320a, 320b) facing the other raised portion (320a, 320b) is It is configured to be curved, in particular spherical, or flattened from a cylindrical shape; Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

8. the end face (321a, 321b) of the at least one of the protuberances (320a, 320b) in cooperation with the respective recess (310a, 310b) provides bearing centering along the bearing axis (A); 8. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to claim 7.

9. an axis of symmetry of the recesses (310a, 310b) in the axial direction of the recesses (310a, 310b) is disposed below a surface (315a) of the armature body (115) adjacent to the recesses (310a, 310b); 9. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

10. the electromagnetic actuator (105) further comprises a spring element (120) for biasing the armature body (115) against the second bearing section (302); In particular, the spring element (120) is configured as a leaf spring, a torsion coil spring, or a wire bending element.

10. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. the spring element (120) presses the armature body (115) against the second bearing section (302) in the first position (147) to hold it in place; 11. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 10.

12. The electromagnetic actuator (105) further comprises at least one support element (131), the support element (131) is disposed on the side of the armature body (115) opposite the coil device (128, 135, 140) so as to face the recessed portion (310a, 310b) and supports the armature body (115) when the armature body (115) descends in a direction away from the raised portion (320a, 320b); Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. The raised portions (320a, 320b) are having a penetration depth into the recesses (310a, 310b) such that the bearing axis (A) is located deeper than a surface (315a) of the armature body (115) that is outside the recesses (310a, 310b); Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The armature body (115) is configured as a plate armature. Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. The electromagnetic actuator (105) is configured as an electromagnetic switching or valve device (100) with the armature body (115) as a switching or valve element, in particular as an electromechanical relay or solenoid valve (100). Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

16. The electromagnetic actuator is configured as a tilting armature valve (100). Electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

17. The electromagnetic actuator is configured as a solenoid valve (100) for a pressure regulation module of a vehicle.

17. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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