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, such as electromagnetic relays or solenoid valves. Electromagnetic valves, for example, in the form of tilting armature valves, are used, for example, as control valves for adjusting air pressure in vehicles, for example, passenger transport commercial vehicles or buses. For example, braking systems for vehicles with electronic service braking systems include at least one pressure-adjusting control valve.

[0003] An electromagnetic actuator in the form of a tilting armature valve is known, for example, from DE 10 2016 105 532 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 the actuator element. The armature body is supported in the coil arrangement via two balls that are press-fitted 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, inaccurate armature positions can occur partially during operation, which can lead to more rapid wear of the bearing between the armature body and the coil arrangement.

[0006] When the armature body (or armature for short) is supported by a bearing assembly in known electromagnetic actuators, the manufacturing process is often time-consuming, since the assembly of such a bearing assembly on the armature often requires multiple assembly steps with multiple elements that must be manufactured independently of each other.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide an electromagnetic actuator of the type mentioned at the outset, which can be manufactured simply.

[0008] The invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator of the type mentioned at the outset as set forth in the appended 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 present invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator comprising a coil arrangement including 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, 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 protrusions in a second bearing section formed in the actuator on the side of the coil arrangement. The recesses are integral with the armature body and are configured in the form of at least two recesses formed in the shape of at least a partially cylindrical shell and spaced apart from each other in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body. The protuberances are configured in the form of at least two protuberances formed at least partially cylindrically and spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body, and the protuberances engage with each of the recesses.

[0010] The electromagnetic actuator according to the present invention allows the armature body to be reliably and easily movable within the electromagnetic actuator. Separate bearing elements are not required, which reduces the number of components of the electromagnetic actuator and simplifies assembly. Since the bearing device has a recess in the magnetic armature body, the bearing device positively influences the magnetic flux in the armature body and its kinematic action on the armature body. Furthermore, the bearing device allows for better and more accurate positioning of the armature body in the actuator element, in particular in the coil device. The mirror-symmetrical shell-shaped bearing points allow for symmetrical wear of the bearing device over time, thus reducing the impact of wear, in particular on rotary positioning and therefore on the function of the electromagnetic actuator.

[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 can absorb large lateral forces, especially magnetic lateral forces, without the armature body separating from the coil device even with small pressure forces. The spacing between the recesses along the bearing axis of the armature body allows for centering with two closely spaced abutment surfaces. This improves the accuracy and functionality of the electromagnetic actuator over its lifetime. Furthermore, the integrated bearing device reduces manufacturing tolerances.

[0012] The protuberances are spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body and are at least partially cylindrical, in particular 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] Preferably, the electromagnetic actuator according to the invention is configured in the form of a solenoid valve, for example for the braking system of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, each of the protuberances and each of the depressions contact each other at two contact lines extending tangentially to the respective surfaces and in the direction of the bearing axis of the armature body. Among other things, this results in two spaced-apart linear contact points (linear contacts) between the corresponding protuberances and depressions, which allows for precise guidance 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 mating protuberances and depressions have different surface radii in the respective regions of the tangential contact line, which allows for a secure and play-free contact between the corresponding protuberances and depressions over a wide range of armature body movement, further reducing wear on the bearing device and thereby improving the durability of the electromagnetic actuator.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the protuberances are flattened from their cylindrical shape in the areas between their respective tangential contact lines (line contacts), and do not contact the respective depressions in the flattened areas. This prevents large bearing play, because the highest point of the protuberance does not contact the depressions, but rather 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 recess facing the other recess is curved, in particular spherical, or flattened from a cylindrical shell. This embodiment of the recess allows for improved bearing centering, which also reduces wear on 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 protuberance 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 also reduces wear on 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 in cooperation with a respective depression.

[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 located below the surface of the armature adjacent to the recess. This means that the theoretical axis of rotation of the recess is located below the surface of the armature body adjacent to the recess, so that a straight edge tangentially emerges from the cylindrical shape. Therefore, the intermediate section between the surface of the armature body and the beginning of the cylindrical shape of the recess can be formed approximately straight in cross section. This allows a greater penetration depth into the armature body due to the protuberance. This prevents the armature body from jumping out of the guide provided by the bearing device and ensures emergency functionality, for example, in the event of a 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 includes 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 bent wire element. This ensures a secure support of the armature body in the coil device. This reduces wear between the armature body and the second bearing section, particularly wear at the recesses and protrusions, thereby improving 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 opposite the coil device and facing the recess, and which supports the armature body as it descends away from the protuberance. This prevents the armature body from jumping out of the guide provided by the protuberance and ensures emergency functionality, for example, in the event of breakage or disengagement of the spring element. If play-free support of the armature body in the "descended" state is not required, the at least one support element also makes it possible to dispense with the spring element (bearing spring) described above.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the electromagnetic actuator, the protuberance has a recession depth 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, ensuring 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 explanation of the drawings]

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

[0034] Figure 1 shows, based on Figures 1A and 1B, a simplified cross-sectional view of a tilting armature valve 100, in which an electromagnetic actuator 105 according to the invention, as shown in the partial excerpts of 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 Figures 3, 4 and 5 show in more detail an embodiment of the coil former 320 according to the invention by way of example, which embodiments can basically be easily applied by those skilled in the art to the tilting armature valve according to Figure 1 and the armature according to Figure 2. In this connection, it should be noted that the basic functional scheme of electromagnetic devices such as switching or valve devices with an armature body, as switching or valve element, which is movable by a magnetic field, is known to those skilled in the art.

[0036] The tilting armature valve 100 can in principle be one 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, designated 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 related embodiments of their use described in DE 102016105532 A1 are also incorporated by reference into the disclosure of the present invention.

[0037] 1A shows a cross-sectional view of a tilting armature valve 100, with the armature in a first position. The tilting armature valve 100 includes 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 includes at least one coil core 135 oriented along a longitudinal axis 137, a coil former 128 circumferentially disposed about the coil core 135, and a coil 140 circumferentially disposed about the coil former 128, the coil former 128 including a stack of coil windings (not shown in detail). 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 opposite the coil element 110. A valve seat 150 having an outlet 155 and an inlet 157 for a fluid 158 is formed in the cover shell 130. Here, when the armature 115 is arranged in the first position 147, the outlet 155 can be fluid-tightly sealed by the sealing element 125. In this case, the sealing element 125 can also act as a damper element to prevent the armature 115 from impacting against the valve seat 150. In this case, the sealing element 125 can be attached to the armature 115 or a carrier element by vulcanization. Furthermore, the angle at which the armature 115 or sealing element 125 impacts the valve seat 150 may be created by an angled nozzle, an angled sealing element 125, or a curved armature 115. Such a nozzle, not explicitly shown in FIG. 1A, does not necessarily have to be incorporated 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 Figure 1A for clarity. In this case, an actuator mediating the release of the outlet by the armature 115 would be advantageous.

[0039] In this embodiment, the armature 115 has at least one protuberance 160, which is at least partially circular, on the bearing section 162. The protuberance 160 engages with a recess 165 or opening located in the section of the housing 170 of the tilting armature valve 100 facing the protuberance 160. This allows the armature 115 to slide within 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, while at the same time maintaining a fixed position within the housing 170 or relative to the cover shell 130. The recess is trapezoidal in shape to minimize friction when the protuberance slides over the surface of the recess 165. The recess 165 may be made of, for example, a plastic material.

[0040] The spring 120, configured as a leaf spring in this example, 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, for example, to press bearing balls, which are pressed into the armature 115, without play into a (for example, trapezoidal) counter shell or recess 165 provided in the housing 170 of the coil element 110. The armature 115 can be fixed by the spring 120 so that it is held in a predetermined position. This has the advantage that a constant biasing force can be applied to the armature 115 and that the force applied to the armature 115 by the spring 120 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 may be configured as a leaf spring for example, could be omitted.

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

[0043] 2 shows a perspective view of an exemplary armature 115, also known from DE 10 2016 105 532 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, 160a are arranged next to each other 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 approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 137 of the coil core 135.

[0046] FIG. 3 shows the left portion 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 toward a start position when the electromagnetic actuator 105 is not energized. With reference to FIG. 1, this means that the armature body 115 is biased toward the first position 147. A coil former 328 is disposed on the radially outer surface of the coil core 135. The portion of the coil former 328 shown in FIG. 3 defines a seal ring chamber 189, which is disposed in the form of an annular recess or cutout in the radially outer surface of the coil former 328. Located within the seal ring chamber 189 is, for example, a seal element 190, in particular an O-ring, which cooperates with the housing 170 surrounding the coil former 328 to prevent fluid from passing between the area where the armature body 115 is positioned and the area where the coil 140 is positioned.

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

[0048] In this embodiment, the protuberances 320a and 320b are integrally formed with the coil former 328. Alternatively, the second bearing section 302 with the protuberances 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, such as the element having the recess 165 in FIG. 1A. In other words, the protuberances 320a and 320b are formed on the component that is closest to the armature body 115 in the direction of the coil 140. Although it is preferable to form the protuberances 320a and 320b integrally, they can also be assembled later.

[0049] The ridges 320a and 320b are configured in the form of at least two ridges 320a and 320b that are spaced apart from one another in the direction of the bearing axis A of the armature body 115 and are formed to have an at least partial cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portions of the ridges 320a and 320b are arranged in respective post sections 322a and 322b that extend 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 instead transition into the post sections 322a and 322b first. The post sections 322a and 322b form the transitions 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 a coil former section 323, which is located, for example, in a plane in which the end face 328a of the coil former 328 is also located. The post sections 322a and 322b may optionally be provided on the electromagnetic actuator 105.

[0050] The protuberances 320a and 320b are flattened from their cylindrical shape in the respective regions 333a and 333b between the two tangential contact lines 331 and 332. The flattened regions 333a and 333b may 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 protuberances 320a and 320b are provided. In the flattened regions 333a and 333b, the protuberances 320a and 320b do not contact 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 of the bearing arrangement over the tolerance range and prevent large bearing play. This is because the highest point does not contact the respective depressions 320a and 320b, but rather two points on the arc (at the tangential contact lines or line contacts 331 and 332) contact the respective 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 a radially outer (end face) region of the armature body 115. The recesses 310a and 310b are integrated into the armature body 115 and are configured in the form of at least two at least partially cylindrical shell-shaped recesses 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 an assembled state and to together form the bearing device 300. A surface section 317 of the surface 315a of the armature body 115 is disposed 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 particularly implies that at least one partial surface has a cylindrical shape or a partially cylindrical shape (e.g., a cylindrically shaped portion of the circumferential surface). A protuberance does not necessarily have to be 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 a depression formed at least partially like a cylindrical shell.

[0054] 3, the armature body 115 is arranged so that a 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 from the second bearing section 302. Opposite the surface 315b of the armature body 115 is arranged, for example, the cover shell 130 (or another housing part of the housing 170). A support element 131 is formed on the surface facing the armature body 115, and this support element 131 is located opposite the surface 315b of the armature body 115, and in particular opposite the outward curved portion 340a formed by the recess 310a. The support elements 131 structurally prevent the armature body 115 from slipping off the coil former 328, which would then prevent the armature body 115 from pivoting, thereby enabling "emergency functionality." In other words, the support elements 131 prevent the recesses 310a, 310b from slipping off the protuberances 320a, 320b. Alternatively, the cover shell 130 may be configured without the support elements 131.

[0055] The bearing device 300, which does not require needle roller bearings and axial guidance of the needle roller bearings by springs, is a structurally simple means for a reliable, low-wear bearing device. This eliminates the need for complex springs. The two recesses 310a, 310b, which cooperate with the two protuberances 320a, 320b, provide two axial fixations, eliminating the need for axial guidance by the springs 120. The bearing device 300 provides a bearing with favorable centering along the bearing axis A, which results in smaller magnetic lateral forces and, therefore, less bearing wear. Furthermore, for easier manufacturing, the recesses 310a, 310b can be advantageously molded integrally into the armature body 115.

[0056] The embodiment of the bearing device 300 allows the armature body 115 to be supported without play, without the need for the spring 120. The use of the spring 120 merely allows for 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, with the cutting plane extending along the bearing axis A. FIG. 4 illustrates the arrangement of the recesses 310a and 310b relative to the respective protuberances 320a and 320b. The recesses 310a and 310b have advantageously spherically shaped end faces 311a and 311b facing the other recesses 310a and 310b. Alternatively, the end faces 311a and 311b may be flattened. The end face 314b of the recess 310b opposite the end face 311b extends approximately perpendicular to the surface 315a of the armature body 115. The end face 314a of the recess 310a opposite the end face 311a also extends approximately perpendicular to the surface 315a of the armature body 115.

[0058] The protuberances 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, particularly implies that at least one partial surface is provided with a three-dimensionally curved, particularly outwardly curved (convex), shape, particularly a spherical shape, or a partially spherical shape (e.g., a portion of a spherically shaped surface). In this case, a spatially three-dimensionally curved or rounded shape is more important; for example, a strictly circular arc shape is not essential, although a strictly circular arc shape may have special advantages with regard to axial centering. Therefore, for example, ellipses or other spatially or three-dimensionally rounded or curved shapes should also be included in this term. End faces are not necessarily formed as "pure" spheres. It is sufficient if a partial region of the surface of the end face has a three-dimensionally curved shape. The same applies to the corresponding end face in the recess, which also has a three-dimensionally curved, particularly inwardly curved (concave), shape, particularly a 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 bearing of the armature body 115 on the coil former 328. This allows for little wear and has a positive effect on the durability of the electromagnetic actuator 105. Furthermore, this embodiment allows for 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 protuberances of the support device 300 of the electromagnetic actuator 105, in this case protuberance 320b. As previously mentioned, protuberance 320b extends away from end face 328a of coil former 328. Starting from end face 328a of coil former 328, post section 322b flows in the direction of extension, i.e., with a curved transition. In the right region of protuberance 320b, a substantially cylindrical portion 313b of protuberance 320b extends from post section 322b, while in the left region of protuberance 320b, a spherical portion of protuberance 320b extends from post section 322b. The spherical portion of the ridge 320b has a spherically formed end surface 321b, which transitions 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 also applies in a similar (mirror-symmetrical) manner to the opposite ridge 320a, which is not shown here. The circumferential surfaces of the ridges 320a, 320b are therefore 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 recesses 310a and 310b disposed therein. The spring mounting section 196 cooperates with the return spring 195 as described above. In this embodiment, the armature body 115 has spherical end faces 311a and 311b that face each other along the bearing axis A. Alternatively, the end faces 311a and 311b may be formed by flattening a cylindrical shape. The end faces 311a and 311b are continuous with respective substantially cylindrical portions 312a and 312b (similar to the raised portions).

[0063] That is, an 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, inter alia, in tilting and / or pivoting armature electromagnet devices. The curved recess also increases the magnetic reluctance of the bearing, thereby extending the path length of the magnetic flux, which directs the magnetic flux toward an area with a larger lever arm (compared to bearing device 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, spaced-apart, at least partially cylindrical half-shells integrated into the armature body, preferably with a minimal distance between the two recesses. The end faces facing the other bearing socket may be spherical or flattened. These end faces can be used for axial bearing centering. The at least partially cylindrical bearing block, here the protuberances 320a and 320b, may 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 protuberances shaped as at least partially semi-cylinders with spherical or flattened end faces facing each other. Additionally, 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 across error ranges and prevents large bearing play, since the highest point does not contact the depression. This allows the bearing to be somewhat play-free, allowing 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 elements 128 Coil former 130 Cover Shell 131 Supporting Elements 135 Coil Core 137 Longitudinal axis 140 coils 145 bearings 147 First Position 149 Second 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 section 300 Bearing device 301 First bearing section 302 Second bearing section 310a,b Depression 311a,b end face 312a, 312b Cylindrical section 313b Cylindrical part 314a,b End face 315a,b surface 317 Surface division 320a,b ridge 321a,b end face 322a,b Column classification 323 Coil winding type classification 328 Coil 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) 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); and The bearing device (300) at least two recesses (310a, 310b) provided 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 in at least a partially cylindrical shell shape and 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 and spaced apart from each other 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. each of the protuberances (320a, 320b) and each of the depressions (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) has a different surface radius in each region of the tangential contact lines (331, 332); 3. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to claim 2.

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

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

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

6. the end face (311 a, 311 b) of the at least one of the recesses (310 a, 310 b) in cooperation with the respective protuberance (320 a, 320 b) 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) 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.

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

8. the end face (321 a, 321 b) of the at least one of the protuberances (320 a, 320 b) in cooperation with the respective recess (310 a, 310 b) 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 located below a surface (315a) of the armature body (115) adjacent to the recesses (310a, 310b); 2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

10. the electromagnetic actuator (105) further comprises a spring element (120) for pressing 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.

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

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. An electromagnetic actuator (105) according to 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 portions (310a, 310b), and supports the armature body (115) when the armature body (115) descends in a direction away from the raised portions (320a, 320b).

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

13. The raised portions (320a, 320b) are the bearing axis (A) has a penetration depth into the recesses (310a, 310b) such that it is located deeper than a surface (315a) of the armature body (115) outside the recesses (310a, 310b); 2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

14. The armature body (115) is configured as a plate armature.

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

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).

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

16. The electromagnetic actuator is configured as a tilting armature valve (100).

2. The electromagnetic actuator (105) of claim 1.

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 claims 1 to 16.

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