Preloading device and drive device equipped with preloading device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a preload device (10, 100, 300) having a first end (11, 111), a second end (12, 112) and at least one spring device (F, F1, F2) connecting the second end (12, 112) to the first end (11, 111) along a spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2). The at least one spring device (F, F1, F2) is formed of at least one serpentine portion (M1) each extending along the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2). The present invention also relates to a drive device (1) comprising the preload device (10, 100, 300).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a preloading device (Vorspann-Vorrichtung: preloading device) and a drive device provided with the preloading device.

Background Art

[0002] Preloading devices are known from Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2, and Patent Document 3.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a preloading device or a drive device designed as an alternative to known preloading devices and drive devices, which is advantageous with respect to accuracy and with respect to manufacturing and assembly, and in particular can achieve a particularly high preloading force.

[0005] This object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further embodiments are described in the dependent claims which refer to those independent claims. According to the present invention, the preloading device comprises a first end, a second end, and at least one spring device connecting the first end and the second end along the spring device reference axis RA. At least one spring device of the preloading device, or some or each of the at least one spring device, is formed from at least one meandering or loop-shaped portion, in which the at least one meandering or loop-shaped portion extends along or parallel to the spring device reference axis. In a series of several meandering or loop-shaped portions, the meandering portions are aligned with the spring device reference axis RA, and the meandering or loop-shaped portions that are closest to or adjacent to each other may be directly connected to each other or connected to each other via intermediate portions.

[0006] In each embodiment of the present invention having all other features of the preloading or driving device described herein, the meandering or loop-shaped portion comprises, in particular, two cross sections, the distance between them increasing at least partially with respect to the reference line or spring device reference axis RA of the individual spring device, and the two cross sections form a distance-increasing portion, the two cross sections are connected to each other by a bridge or connecting portion, the bridge or connecting portion is connected to the distance-increasing portion and is therefore located at a greater distance from the reference line or spring device reference axis. Thus, the meandering or loop-shaped portion extends, in particular, to the same side with respect to the reference line or spring device reference axis RA.

[0007] In all embodiments of the present invention, particularly between cross sections of the same meandering section and / or between cross sections of different adjacent meandering sections, there is free movement space in the direction of the reference line or the spring device reference axis within at least a portion or the entire range of movement of the individual spring devices. As a result, the individual spring devices can contract or expand in the direction of the reference line or the spring device reference axis when a corresponding external force is applied to the individual ends of the individual spring devices that extend between them.

[0008] In each embodiment of the present invention, which includes one or more spring devices between two ends, each having multiple meandering or loop-shaped sections, at least two meandering sections that run parallel to each other along a reference line or spring device reference axis extend in opposite directions from the reference line or spring device reference axis, or are located on opposite sides of the reference line or spring device reference axis.

[0009] In combination with all other features of the preloading device or drive device described herein, in an embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention having one or more meandering sections, at least one meandering section includes a meandering centerline within its path, and (A1) A first cross section extending from a first cross section start point to a first cross section end point, wherein the first cross section start point is the same as the meandering section start point, or the first cross section start point is positioned at a distance from the meandering section start point by the start section, wherein the path of the meandering section centerline in the first cross section is defined such that when a line point on the meandering section centerline moves from the first cross section start point to the first cross section end point, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA approaches the first end, (A2) A bridge section extending from the end point of the first cross section toward the second end, (A3) The parts (A1), (A2), and (A3) consist of a second cross section extending from the end point of the bridge section to a second cross section end point which is the same as the end point of the meandering section or is located at a distance from the end point of the meandering section by the end point, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline moves from the end point of the bridge section to the end point of the second cross section, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA approaches the first end.

[0010] With respect to the first cross section according to definition (A1), the linepoint of the meandering centerline moving along the meandering centerline is a virtual point for defining the path of the meandering centerline in the first cross section. In particular, the path of the meandering centerline in the first cross section can be defined such that, when the virtual linepoint moves along the meandering centerline from the start point to the end point of the first cross section, the projected point obtained from the projection of the linepoint moving along the meandering centerline perpendicular to the spring device reference axis RA moves in the direction from the second end to the first end, and at the same time moves along the spring device reference axis RA.

[0011] With respect to the first cross section according to definition (A2), the line point of the meandering centerline moving along the meandering centerline is a virtual point for defining the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section. In particular, the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section can be defined such that, when the virtual line point moves along the meandering centerline from the end of the bridge section to the end of the second cross section, the projected point obtained from the projection of the line point moving along the meandering centerline perpendicular to the spring device reference axis RA moves in the direction from the second end to the first end, and at the same time moves along the spring device reference axis RA.

[0012] Linear preloading is achieved by the preloading device according to the present invention. The geometry or design of at least one spring device can enable the generation of a strong preload, i.e., a relatively large pretension, for components positioned between the ends, particularly actuators, preferably piezoelectric actuators. Components positioned between the ends may be mounted directly to the ends or at least via intermediate components.

[0013] The preloading device according to the present invention has the advantage that, in particular, a relatively large resulting notch radius can be achieved using the preloading device according to the present invention, so that the mechanical stress generated in at least one spring device within the flexible or deformable region, or the mechanical stress in the material of at least one spring device, is relatively small relative to the achievable elongation or achievable preloading force, and as a result, a reduction or limiting of the stress peak in at least one spring device can be achieved. These effects can also be flexibly adjusted depending on the target shape of the spring device.

[0014] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, having all other features described separately herein and optionally alternative features, the spring device reference axis RA is such as to be the centerline of the spring device or extends parallel to the centerline of the spring device.

[0015] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, having all other features separately described herein and optionally alternative features, the section of the meandering centerline of at least one meandering section is between the end of the first cross section and the end of the bridge section. (C1) Straight path and (C2) The spring device has one of the following forms: a circular arc-shaped curve with a uniform curvature that curves in a concave shape when viewed from the reference axis RA of the spring device.

[0016] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention having all other features described herein and optionally alternative features, at least one meandering section is formed such that the section of the meandering centerline between the first cross section start point and the cross section end point is an arc, and the center of the arc is (R1) A perpendicular line to the tangent to the meandering centerline at the starting point of the first cross section, where the meandering centerline is located in the first cross section, and the perpendicular line is... (R2) A perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline in the second cross section at the second meandering termination point, the meandering centerline is defined by the intersection of two lines, the perpendicular and the (R2) located in the second cross section.

[0017] The angle of separation φ extending between the two perpendiculars is greater than 180 degrees. In addition, the angle of separation (φ) extending between the two perpendiculars (SP1, SP6) is less than 330 degrees.

[0018] In this regard, specifically, the angle of separation between the two perpendiculars (SP1, SP6) across the path of the first meandering section (M1) is greater than 180.5 degrees. In this regard, the angle of separation between the two perpendiculars (SP1, SP6) across the path of the first meandering section (M1) is less than 350 degrees, specifically less than 330 degrees.

[0019] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, having all other features described herein and optionally alternative features, the spring device comprises two or more meandering sections. At least one meandering section comprises sections (A1), (A2), and (A3), and the bridge sections of the meandering sections, which are arranged longitudinally along the spring device reference axis RA, are periodically and alternately arranged on opposite sides with respect to the spring device reference axis RA. In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention having at least two meandering sections, in particular, the bridge sections of the meandering sections, which are arranged longitudinally along the spring device reference axis RA, are periodically and alternately arranged on opposite sides with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0020] In particular, in these embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention, the spring device reference axis RA is the center line of the spring device. In particular, in these embodiments of the preloading device according to this specification, having all other features described herein and any optional alternative features where applicable, the spring device comprises at least one first meandering section and at least one further meandering section, which are arranged front to back along the spring device reference axis RA, in which case they may be directly adjacent to each other or connected to each other via an intermediate section or intermediate component. In these embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention, having all other features separately described herein, the preloading device is The first meandering portion is formed from the parts (A1), (A2), (A3) described in this specification, A further meandering portion is also formed from the parts (A1), (A2), (A3) described in this specification, The further meandering portion has a first transverse portion following the second transverse portion of the first meandering portion according to definition (A1), The further meandering portion has a bridge portion according to definition (A2) following the first transverse portion of the further meandering portion, The further meandering portion (M2) has a second transverse portion according to definition (A3) following the bridge portion of the further meandering portion, The bridge portion of the first meandering portion and the bridge portion of the further meandering portion are arranged on different sides with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0021] In particular, the further meandering portion (M2) may include a bridge portion according to definition (A2) described in this specification, adjacent to the first transverse portion of the further meandering portion (M2). In particular, the further meandering portion (M2) includes a second transverse portion according to definition (A3) described in this specification, adjacent to the bridge portion of the further meandering portion. In particular, the second transverse portion of the first meandering portion and the second transverse portion of the further meandering portion extend in the direction from their respective bridge portion end points to their respective second transverse portion end points, or extend in opposite directions with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0022] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, the thickness of at least one meandering portion of at least one meandering portion continuously increases along the path of the meandering center line in the region between the first transverse portion start point and the second meandering end point, and decreases after reaching the maximum thickness, and the maximum thickness occurs in the middle region of the bridge portion. In particular, the thickness is formed in a transverse or vertical direction with respect to a plane or a central plane on which the radius of curvature is on the meandering center line in the bridge portion.

[0023] In each embodiment of a preloading device having a meandering section according to the present invention, having one or more of the other features of a preloading device described separately herein, the meandering section of the preloading device includes a start section or an end section (90), or both a start section and an end section.

[0024] In each embodiment of the preloading device having multiple meandering sections according to the present invention, having one or more of the other features of the preloading device described separately herein, at least one of the multiple meandering sections of the preloading device includes a start section or an end section, or both a start section and an end section.

[0025] In each embodiment of the preloading device having at least one starting portion according to the present invention, the meandering centerline of the at least one starting portion extends in a straight line. In each embodiment of the preloading device having at least one termination portion according to the present invention, the meandering centerline of at least one termination portion extends in a straight line.

[0026] In each embodiment of the preloading device having at least two adjacent meandering sections according to the present invention, having one or more of the other features of the preloading device described separately herein, one of the meandering sections includes an end section, and the adjacent meandering section includes a start section, the start section being directly connected to the end section. In this case, in particular, the start section directly adjacent to the end section is positioned point-symmetric with respect to the end section.

[0027] In these embodiments having at least two consecutive meandering sections, the spring device reference axis RA extends through a common point where the end section and the beginning section directly adjacent to the end section intersect.

[0028] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, the preloading device comprises a first spring device connecting a first end and a second end along a first spring device reference axis RA1, and a second spring device connecting the first end and the second end along a second spring device reference axis RA2, wherein each spring device has a meandering centerline and is formed from at least one meandering portion formed from parts (A1), (A2), and (A3).

[0029] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the preloading device according to the present invention may include a first end, a second end, and at least one spring device connecting the first end and the second end along a spring device reference axis.

[0030] In this case, an embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention having all other features of the present invention may comprise at least one spring device (F1, F2) having at least one meandering section (M1, M2), each of which has two transverse sections (50, 70; 150, 170; 250, 270), wherein the transverse sections are connected to each other by bridge sections located at a greater distance from the reference line or spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2) of the individual spring devices, with the distance from each other increasing in part. The first end (11, 111) or the second end (12, 112), or both the first end (11, 111) and the second end (12, 112), are equipped with a decoupling device (30, 130) for eliminating the effect of lateral forces directed transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2). The separation device (30, 130) is (U) The separation device has a first rotating bearing (131) having a first rotating shaft and a second rotating bearing (132) having a second rotating shaft, and the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft extend laterally relative to each other. (V) The separation device (30, 130) comprises one of feature groups (U), (V), or both of feature groups (U), (V), wherein the separation device (30, 130) includes at least one flexible hinge or structural hinge.

[0031] Furthermore, an embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention having all other features of the present invention may include at least one spring device (F1, F2), each of which has at least one meandering portion (M1, M2) having an overall elongated shape, and at least one meandering portion (M1, M2) is (B1) The first cross section, (B2) Bridge section, (B3) It has the shape of a meandering loop having a second cross section, The bridge section connects the first cross section to the second cross section. The vertical plane VE can be defined such that the reference axes of the individual spring devices are located in this plane and intersect the bridge section at least partially.

[0032] In this case, the first cross section comprises a first outer surface having at least one first surface portion oriented at least partially toward the first end and a second surface portion oriented opposite to the first surface portion, and the adjacent angle α between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the first surface portion and the vertical plane VE and the individual spring device reference axis, opening to the side end of the first end, is at least partially less than 90 degrees. The second cross section comprises a second outer surface having at least one first surface oriented at least partially toward the second end and a second surface oriented opposite to the first surface, wherein the adjacent angle γ between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the first surface and the vertical plane (VE) and the individual spring device reference axis, opening toward the second end, is at least partially less than 90 degrees.

[0033] This embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention can be realized with all other features described separately herein and optionally alternative features. In these embodiments of the preloading device, the spring device comprises at least two meandering sections, each of which comprises parts (B1), (B2), and (B3). The second crossing of the first meandering section is followed by the first crossing of the second meandering section. The bridge sections of the meandering parts, which are positioned front to back along the spring device reference axes RA, RA1, and RA2, are periodically and alternately arranged on different RA, RA1, and RA2 axes.

[0034] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, having one or more of the other features of the preloading device described separately herein, the preloading device comprises a first spring device and a second spring device, each having at least two meandering sections, each of which is formed by sections (A1), (A2), and (A3), and the bridge sections of the meandering sections of the same spring device, which are arranged front to back along the individual spring device reference axis, are periodically and alternately arranged on opposite sides with respect to the individual spring device reference axis.

[0035] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention having a first spring device and a second spring device, the first spring device and the second spring device are arranged axially with respect to an axis of symmetry of the spring device that extends parallel to the spring device reference axis RA. In these embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention, in particular, the first spring device reference axis RA1 of the first spring device and the second spring device reference axis RA1 of the second spring device are arranged axially with respect to the axis of symmetry of the spring device. In these embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention, the first spring device reference axis RA1 of the first spring device and the second spring device reference axis RA1 of the second spring device extend parallel to each other. In these embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention, the outer contours of the first spring device and the outer contours of the second spring device are essentially identical to each other.

[0036] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, having one or more of the other features of the preloading device described separately herein, the first end or the second end or both the first and second ends are provided with a separator for eliminating the influence of lateral forces directed transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis RA. The lateral force may be a lateral force acting on the first end or the second end, or both the first and second ends. In particular, the separator can be located between two parts or sub-pieces at an individual end to eliminate transverse forces between these parts or sub-pieces. These parts are arranged front to back along the individual spring device reference axis. However, to realize a universal joint device, it is also conceivable that the parts or sub-pieces overlap each other, i.e., are arranged on top of each other or vertically.

[0037] At least one separation device ensures that transverse forces, i.e., forces transverse to the spring device reference axis RA, are not transmitted from the end to at least one spring device, or only relatively small forces are transmitted.

[0038] In each embodiment of the preloading device having at least one separation device according to the present invention, the separation device comprises at least one pivot bearing or one tilt bearing. In the case of individual pivot bearings, the parts or sub-pieces are rotatably connected to each other by the separation device. In the case of individual pivot bearings, the parts or sub-pieces connected by the separation device are connected so as to be tiltable or pivotable relative to each other.

[0039] In each embodiment of the preloading device having at least one separation device according to the present invention, the separation device comprises a first pivot bearing, tilting bearing, or slewing bearing having a first pivot axis, tilting axis, or slewing axis, and a second pivot bearing, tilting bearing, or slewing bearing having a second pivot axis, tilting axis, or slewing axis, wherein the first pivot axis, first tilting axis, or first slewing axis and the second pivot axis, second tilting axis, or second slewing axis extend laterally relative to each other.

[0040] In each embodiment of the preloading device comprising at least one separation device having at least one pivot bearing according to the present invention, the pivot bearing is implemented as a flexible pivot bearing or a structural pivot bearing, or includes a flexible pivot bearing or a structural pivot bearing.

[0041] In each embodiment of the preloading device having at least one separation device according to the present invention, the separation device comprises a layer of pseudoplastic material or shear-reducing material with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0042] In general, each embodiment of the spring device described herein can be manufactured by wire electrical discharge machining. A further aspect of the present invention provides an embodiment of a preloading device according to the present invention, and a drive device comprising an actuator disposed between a first end and a second end, which expands or contracts along a spring device reference axis RA when in operation.

[0043] The actuator can be a piezoelectric actuator, specifically one made of a piezoelectric material. Generally speaking, actuators made from different electromechanical materials are also conceivable.

[0044] In embodiments of a drive unit having at least one end equipped with a separation device, it is realized that the end does not transmit transverse forces, i.e., forces directed transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis RA, to the actuator, or transmits only relatively small transverse forces. This prevents the generation of undesirable bending loads on the actuator due to lateral forces when the drive unit is installed between ends, and when the ends are mounted in an application environment comprising, for example, a first application component and a second application component. In this case, the first application component and the second application component can be coupled by applied kinematics so that they can move relative to each other. The separation device also ensures the reduction or avoidance of lateral forces on the actuator that may arise from the operation of the drive unit.

[0045] The term “along” means, in particular, in relation to descriptions of directions as referred herein, which may also relate to the paths of contours or surfaces, or the directions of parts or structural components such as axes or shafts or their central axes, with respect to a reference direction or reference axis, and means that a section of a path or tangent to an individual contour or individual surface or direction, in a line of sight direction that is explicitly or implicitly designated locally or in a section, is deflected by an angle of up to 45 degrees, and especially up to 30 degrees, from the individual reference direction or reference axis on which the individual directional information is based.

[0046] The term “transverse direction” means, in particular, in relation to descriptions of directions referred to herein, which may also refer to the direction of a contour line or surface path with respect to a reference direction or reference axis, or the direction of a part or structural component such as an axis or shaft or their central axis, and means that a section of a path or tangent to an individual contour line or individual surface or direction in a locally or sectionly explicitly or implicitly designated line of sight direction is deflected by an angle between 45 and 135 degrees, preferably between 67 and 113 degrees, from the individual reference direction or reference axis on which the individual directional information is based.

[0047] In particular, the term "distance" between two surfaces is understood here to mean the shortest distance. More specifically, the “distance” between two objects or two surfaces or reference points can be understood, in this specification, to mean the shortest distance or shortest interval between two objects or surfaces or reference points, and the shortest distance or shortest interval is not zero in absolute value unless expressly otherwise specified in this regard.

[0048] The “centerline,” “longitudinal direction,” “reference axis,” or other reference line, particularly the central axis or a line extending to the center, of at least one structural component or part (which may be a meandering section), can be defined herein in such a way that the same result is obtained as the connecting line of the centroids of the individual minimum cross-sectional areas of the individual structural components at each point along the path between two determined or designated reference lines or ends of the structural component or part (which may be a meandering section). However, the “centerline” of a reference line herein may extend according to any other definition known in the art. If the reference line is curved or at least partially curved, the reference direction at a point on the reference line can generally be understood as the local longitudinal direction, and in particular may have the direction of the tangential to that point.

[0049] However, the reference axis can also be understood as a linearly defined line or axis of a curved reference line and, for example, a center line, and in order to determine a linear reference axis, a line can be used in which the arrangement of the curve and, for example, the center line results in the smallest area of ​​deviation between these lines in total or the smallest area of ​​deviation. The same applies in this specification when deriving a reference straight line from a curve.

[0050] The term “substantially” with respect to a characteristic or value is understood herein to mean that the characteristic includes a 20%, and especially a 10%, deviation from the characteristic or its geometric characteristics or value.

[0051] In this specification, "orientation" with respect to a region, particularly a surface, is understood to mean the normal to an individual surface. If the surface in question is not straight but, for example, curved, then the surface normal can be determined by using the normal to a straight surface with the same properties, such that the relative position to the curved surface is given by the sum of the minimum deviations.

[0052] The “extension” of a surface is understood to mean the direction of a planar surface that extends along the referenced surface and has an arrangement such that the sum of the deviations between the two surface parts is minimized. With respect to the length of the extension of a surface, it is understood herein to mean the length of a virtual surface of equal size in the direction to be defined, and the extension of a surface has an arrangement with respect to the referenced surface such that the sum of the deviations between the two surface parts is minimized.

[0053] The terms “continuous” or “continuously connected” are understood herein to mean, in particular, that a surface or structural component extending in at least one longitudinal direction, such as a skin, plate or wall, is uninterrupted.

[0054] A “continuous path” of a line, edge, or surface means that the surface, viewed along the reference direction, does not contain any angles over its entire width extending transversely to the reference direction; that is, it has a differentiable progression. A “curved path” of a line, edge, or surface means that the surface, viewed along the reference direction, does not have any angles over its entire width extending transversely to the reference direction; that is, it has a differentiable path.

[0055] Here, "a uniformly curved path" is understood to mean a curvature without inflection points. The term “position” of a point or object, such as a reference point, is understood herein to mean the three spatial coordinates of surface coordinates / spatial coordinates, in particular the position of a point, such as a reference point or object. The position of an object is understood herein to mean, in particular the position of the center or midpoint of the object, in particular the position of the center of gravity of the object.

[0056] In particular, the term “substantially” with respect to the identical shape of two parts or components is used herein to mean identity involving a deviation of up to 15 percent, particularly a deviation of 10 percent, of a single feature or several features of the parts or components.

[0057] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Descriptions of features or components of embodiments according to the present invention should be understood herein that, unless expressly excluded, a relevant embodiment of the present invention may have, in each case, at least one feature of another embodiment, as an additional feature of the relevant embodiment or as an alternative feature replacing another feature of that embodiment in question. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0058] [Figure 1] This is a side view of one embodiment of a preloading device according to the present invention, which has a spring device having a meandering section. [Figure 2] This is a side view of a modified embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention shown in Figure 1, which has a spring device having a meandering section. [Figure 3] This is a side view of a further embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, which comprises two spring devices. [Figure 4] This is a side view of one part of the spring device of a further embodiment of the preloading device shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 3 is a top view of a further embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is a further perspective view of a further embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a side view of another further embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, compared with the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 3. [Figure 9]This is a side view of one embodiment of a drive device according to the present invention, which includes a preloading device as shown in Figure 3, having two spring devices and an actuator positioned between the two spring devices. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a top view of an embodiment of the drive device according to the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the drive device according to the present invention. [Figure 12] This is another perspective view of the embodiment of the drive device according to the present invention shown in Figure 9. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0059] Embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention are described in modified and alternative embodiments having features shown in the drawings. Further features that differentiate the alternative embodiments from the modified embodiments may also be present in all embodiments described herein, as alternatives to functionally identical or functionally similar features, and as additional features, according to the present invention.

[0060] The preloading device 10 according to the present invention comprises a first end 11, a second end 12, and at least one spring device F. The spring device F connects the first end 11 and the second end 12 along the spring device reference axis RA. The spring device F provides spring travel along the spring device reference axis RA. The spring device F is formed from a meandering section M1, the longitudinal path of the meandering section M1 is defined by the meandering centerline MM.

[0061] According to the present invention, the first end 11, as referred to herein, is intended to be attached to or mounted on a first application component (not shown), and the second end 12, as referred to herein, is intended to be attached to or mounted on a second application component (not shown). When using the preloading device 10 according to the present invention, the first application component can be moved relative to the second application component against the spring force of a separate spring device F by an actuator positioned between the ends 11 and 12 and moving the ends 11 and 12 relative to each other along the spring device reference axis RA. In an alternative application example of the preloading device 10 according to the present invention, the first application component can be preloaded relative to the second application component by a separate spring device F.

[0062] The first end 11 has a first inner surface 11a facing the spring device F or the meandering section M1. Similarly, the second end 12 has a second inner surface 12a facing the spring device F or the meandering section M1. Thus, the first inner surface 11a and the second inner surface 12a are oriented to face each other. Thus, the first inner surface 11a and the second inner surface 12a can be used as bearing surfaces of a component preloaded by the preloading device 10, particularly by the spring device F. The component to be preloaded is positioned either directly against the first inner surface 11a and the second inner surface 12a or one of these inner surfaces, or via an intermediate component (such as a bearing component or bearing housing) which can be formed from an elastic material. The component to be prestressed may be positioned not only adjacent to the spring device F, along the spring device reference axis RA, or parallel to the spring device reference axis RA, but also transversely to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0063] Such components can be actuators, specifically piezoelectric actuators. The function of a piezoelectric actuator installed in the preloading device 10 between the first inner surface 11a and the second inner surface 12a is that it is preloaded by a separate spring device F, and as a result, the first end 11 and the second end 12, or the first inner surface 11a and the second inner surface 12a, compress the component or actuator on both sides.

[0064] An embodiment of the preloading device 10 according to the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The preloading device 10 comprises a first end 11, a second end 12, and a single spring device F. The spring device F connects the first end 11 and the second end 12 along the spring device reference axis RA and provides a spring stroke along the spring device reference axis RA. A coordinate system having a longitudinal axis X, a vertical axis Y, and a transverse axis Z is shown in Figure 1. The position of the coordinate system relative to the preloading device 10 can be defined such that, in particular, the XY plane, i.e., the plane formed by the X and Y axes, extends along or is identical to the center plane of the spring device F, and the X axis also extends in the direction of the center line of the spring device F.

[0065] The first end 11 comprises a first support portion 13 and a first connecting portion 21. Similarly, the second end 12 comprises a second support portion 14 and a second connecting portion 22. The first connecting portion 21 and the second connecting portion 22 form a connecting device 20 to which the spring device F is connected at the first end E1 to the first end 11 and at the second end E2 to the second end 12.

[0066] For this purpose, the first support portion 13 comprises a first end portion 15 and a second end portion 17 located transversely to the first end portion 15 with respect to the spring device reference axis RA. The second end portion 17 is connected to the first connector portion 21. The first support portion 13 and the first connector portion 21 can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other. Similarly, the second support portion 14 comprises a first end portion 16 and a second end portion 18 located transversely to the first end portion 16 with respect to the spring device reference axis RA. The second end portion 18 is connected to the second connector portion 22. The second support portion 14 and the second connector portion 22 can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other.

[0067] The first connector 21 comprises a first end 23 and a second end 25 located on the opposite side of the first end 23 along the spring device reference axis RA and connected to the first end E1 of the spring device F. The second end 25 and the first end E1 can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other. Similarly, the second connector 22 comprises a first end 24 and a second end 26 located on the opposite side of the first end 24 along the spring device reference axis RA and connected to the second end E2 of the spring device F. The second end 26 and the second end E2 can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other.

[0068] The first support portion 13 and the first connecting portion 21 are formed together to be dimensionally stable. Similarly, the first connecting portion 21 and the first end E1 of the spring device F are also formed together to be dimensionally stable. Likewise, the second support portion 14 and the second connecting portion 22 are formed together to be dimensionally stable. Similarly, the second connecting portion 22 and the second end E2 of the spring device F are also formed together to be dimensionally stable.

[0069] In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, the spring device F is formed from at least one meandering section M. The at least one meandering section M extends partially along the spring device reference axis RA and partially transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis RA. In each embodiment of the preloading device according to the present invention, having one or more of the other features of the preloading device as otherwise described herein, several meandering sections as defined herein can be directly adjacent to one another or can be connected to one another via one or separate intermediate sections.

[0070] In the embodiment of the preloading device 10 described with reference to Figures 1 and 2, the spring device F is formed as a single meandering section M, and this meandering section M includes a meandering center line MM in its path, (A1) A first transversal section (Querabschnitt: transversal section) 50 extending from a first transversal section start point P1 to a first transversal section end point P2, wherein the first transversal section start point P1 is the same as the meandering section start point PA, or the first transversal section start point P1 is positioned at a distance from the meandering section start point PA by the start point 80, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the first transversal section 50 is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline MM moves from the first transversal section start point P1 to the first transversal section end point P2, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA approaches the first end point 11, (A2) A bridge section 60 or connecting section extending from the end point P2 of the first cross section to the end point P4 of the bridge section in the direction of the second end 12, (A3) A second cross section 70 extending from the end point P14 of the bridge section to a second cross section end point P16 which is the same as the end point PB of the meandering section, or is located at a distance from the end point PB of the meandering section by the end section 190, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section 170 is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline moves from the end point P14 of the bridge section to the end point P16 of the second cross section, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA approaches the first end 11. The parts (A1), (A2), (A3) are included.

[0071] In all embodiments of the preloading device 10 in which the meandering section start point PA is located at a distance from the first cross section start point P1, the center line extending from the meandering section start point PA to the first cross section start point P1 extends in the transverse direction with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0072] Regardless of this, in all embodiments of the preloading device 10 in which the meandering section end point PB is located at a distance from the second cross section end point P6, the center line extending from the meandering section end point PB to the second cross section end point P6 extends in the transverse direction with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0073] In particular, an embodiment of the preloading device 10 may include a first spring device F1, a second spring device F2, a first end 11, and a second end 12, wherein the first spring device F1 connects the first end 11 and the second end 12 along the first spring device reference axis RA1, and the second spring device F2 connects the first end 11 and the second end 12 along the second spring device reference axis RA2.

[0074] Each spring device F1, F2 is equipped with meandering sections M1, M2, each having two cross sections 50, 70, and the distance between them when viewed from the reference line or spring device reference axes RA, RA1, RA2 of the individual spring devices is partially increased, and the two cross sections 50, 70 are connected to each other by a bridge section at a greater distance from the reference line or spring device reference axes RA, RA1, RA2.

[0075] In these embodiments of the present invention, in particular, between cross sections of the same meandering section and / or between cross sections of different adjacent meandering sections, there exists a travel space in the direction of the reference line or the reference axis of the spring device in at least the actual portion or the entire travel range of the individual spring device.

[0076] In the embodiment of the preloading device 10 shown in Figure 1, the meandering center line MM of the meandering section M is a circular segment line (Kreissegment-Linie), and the center point of the circular segment is (R1) SP1 is a perpendicular line to the tangent line of the meandering centerline located at the first cross section 50 at the starting point P1 of the first cross section, (R2) is defined by the intersection of two lines: (R2) the perpendicular line SP6 to the tangent line of the meandering centerline at the second cross section 70 at the second meandering termination point P6, and (R2).

[0077] The angle of separation extending between the two perpendiculars SP1 and SP6 is greater than 180 degrees. This can generally be 180.5 degrees or greater. This angle of separation is preferably less than 345°, and particularly less than 330°.

[0078] However, it is also conceivable that the meandering centerline MM of at least one meandering section M includes a geometric shape that deviates from the arc, particularly an arch-shaped geometric shape. Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of the preloading device 10 according to the present invention, which is a modified form of the embodiment of the preloading device 10 shown in Figure 1.

[0079] The embodiment of the preloading device 10 shown in Figure 2 according to the present invention can include all combinations of the features of the preloading device 10 described with reference to Figure 1. In addition, the preloading device 10 of Figure 2 differs from the preloading device 10 of Figure 1 in that both the first end 11 and the second end 12 are equipped with a separation device 30. The separation device 30 is configured as a first separation layer 31 positioned as an intermediate layer at the first end 11, and as a second separation layer 32 positioned as an intermediate layer at the second end 12. In a modified embodiment of Figure 2, the preloading device 10 is equipped with only one separation layer, i.e., only the separation layer 31, or only the separation layer 32.

[0080] In particular, the separation device is positioned between two parts or components at individual ends to eliminate transverse forces between these parts or components. These parts are arranged front to back along the reference axis of the individual spring device.

[0081] In the embodiment of the preloading device 10 according to the present invention shown in Figure 2, the first end portion 11 includes a first portion or inner portion 33 that forms a first inner surface 11a on the side facing the individual spring device F. Furthermore, the first end portion 11 includes a second portion or outer portion 35 located adjacent to the first portion 33 along the spring device reference axis RA, and a first separation layer 31 is disposed between the first portion 33 and the second portion 35.

[0082] Similarly, in the embodiment of the preloading device 10 according to the present invention shown in Figure 2, the second end portion 12 includes a first portion or inner portion 34 that forms a second inner surface 12a on the side facing the individual spring device F. Furthermore, the second end portion 12 includes a second portion or outer portion 36 located adjacent to the first portion 34 along the spring device reference axis RA, and a second separation layer 32 is disposed between the first portion 34 and the second portion 36.

[0083] The separation device 30 functions to reduce or eliminate transverse forces directed transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis RA, acting on either the first end 11 or the second end 12, or on both the first end 11 and the second end 12, when the first end 11 and / or the second end 12 are connected to a component of the applicable device.

[0084] The separation layer 31 and / or separation layer 32 may, in particular, be made from a shear-thinning material. The shear-thinning material is integrated with the first end 11 or the second end 12, or both the first end 11 and the second end 12, so that transverse forces acting on the individual first parts 33, 34 are not transmitted to the individual second parts 35, 36 of the same ends 11, 12. The shear-thinning material transmits only forces transmitted along the spring device reference axis RA from the individual second end 12 of the same ends 11, 12 to the individual first end 11.

[0085] The separation device 30 can also be implemented in different ways, for example, as at least one pivot bearing, inclined bearing, slewing bearing, flexible joint, or structural joint, in order to eliminate the influence of lateral forces oriented transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0086] The features of the preloading device 10 described with reference to Figures 1 and 2 can be combined with one or more of the other features of other embodiments of the preloading device described separately in this specification.

[0087] Further embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention are described below with reference to Figures 3 to 7, to which reference numeral "100" is assigned. Features having the same function are partially assigned the same reference numerals. These embodiments include a first end 111, a second end 112, a first spring device F1, and a second spring device F2, not shown in Figure 1. The first spring device F1, which defines the first spring device reference axis RA1, and the second spring device F2, which defines the second spring device reference axis RA2, may be arranged axially symmetrically with respect to the spring device symmetry axis S extending along the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. In particular, the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2 extend symmetrically and especially parallel to the spring device symmetry axis S. The first spring device F1 and the second spring device F2 may be positioned at a distance of non-zero, in particular, transversely with respect to their spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2, and transversely with respect to the spring device axis of symmetry S.

[0088] The first end 111 of the preloading device 100 comprises a first support portion 113 and two first connection portions 121a and 121b positioned at a non-zero distance transversely with respect to the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. Similarly, the second end 112 of the preloading device 100 comprises a second support portion 114 and two second connection portions 122a and 122b positioned at a non-zero distance transversely with respect to the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. The first end E11 of the first spring device F1 and the first end E12 of the second spring device F2 are connected to the first connection portions 121a and 121b, respectively. The second end E21 of the first spring device F1 and the second end E22 of the second spring device F2 are connected to the second connection portions 122a and 122b, respectively. Therefore, the second connecting parts 122a and 122b form a connecting device 120, through which the spring devices F1 and F2 are connected to the first end 111 at the first ends E11 and E12, and to the second end 112 at the second ends E21 and E22.

[0089] For this purpose, the first support portion 113 comprises two first ends 115a and 115b and two second ends 117a and 117b. The first ends 115a and 115b are located apart from each other in the direction of the distance between the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. The two second ends 117a and 117b are also located apart from each other in the direction of the distance between the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. In this case, one of the first ends 115a and 115b is located on the opposite side from the second ends 117a and 117b in a direction extending transversely to the plane formed by the aforementioned distance and one of the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. The second ends 117a and 117b are connected to the first connecting portions 121a and 121b, respectively. The first support portion 113 and the first connecting portions 121a, 121b can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other.

[0090] Similarly, the second support portion 114 comprises two first ends 116a and 116b and two second ends 118a and 118b. The first ends 116a and 116b are located apart from each other in the direction of the distance between the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. The two second ends 118a and 118b are also located apart from each other in the direction of the distance between the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. In this case, each of the first ends 116a and 116b is located on the opposite side from the second ends 118a and 118b in a direction extending transversely to the plane formed by the aforementioned distance and one of the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2. The second ends 118a and 118b are connected to second connecting portions 122a and 122b, respectively. The second support portion 114 and the second connecting portions 122a, 122b can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other.

[0091] Each of the first connecting portions 121a, 121b comprises a first end 123a or 123b and a second end 125a or 125b, the second end 125a or 125b being located opposite to the individual first ends 123a, 123b and connected to the individual spring device F1 or F2 at first ends E11, E12. The second ends 125a, 125b and the individual first ends E11 or E12 can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or can be formed as separate parts from each other.

[0092] Similarly, the second connectors 122a and 122b each comprise a first end 124a or 124b and a second end 126a or 126b, the second end 126a or 126b being located opposite the individual first ends 124a and 124b and connected to the individual spring device F1 or F2 by second ends E21 and E22. In either case, the second ends 126a and 126b and the individual second ends E21 or E22 can be manufactured together, in particular as a single part, or from a single part, or they can be formed as separate parts from each other.

[0093] The first support portion 113 and the first connectors 121a and 121b are formed together to be inherently stable. The first connectors 121a and 121b and the individual first ends E11 and E12 of the spring device F1 or F2 are also formed together to be inherently stable. Similarly, the second support portion 114 and the second connectors 122a and 122b are formed together to be inherently stable. The second connectors 122 and 122b and the individual second ends E21 and E22 of the spring device F1 or F2 are also formed together to be inherently stable.

[0094] Each spring device F1, F2 comprises three first meandering sections M1 and three second meandering sections M2. The first meandering sections M1 and the second or further meandering sections M2 extend in opposite directions to each other. A meandering centerline MM may be defined for each of these along its path. Furthermore, the first meandering sections M1 and the second or further meandering sections M2 extend along the spring device reference axis RA1 or RA2.

[0095] Generally, each spring device F1, F2 may have a meandering section M1, M2 or several meandering sections M1, M2. If the spring devices F1, F2 have multiple meandering sections M1, M2, the first meandering section M1 and the second meandering section M2, or vice versa, are arranged front to back along the individual spring device reference axis RA1 or RA2.

[0096] Each spring device F1, F2 has a meandering section with a width b, which may be constant or vary along the individual spring device reference axis RA1 or RA2. Each of the first meandering section M1 and the second meandering section M2 comprises parts (A1), (A2), and (A3), which are defined with reference to Figure 1. For the purpose of describing the first meandering section M1 and the second meandering section M2, the same reference numerals are used with respect to the first spring device F1 and the second spring device F2 for the same functional features.

[0097] The first meandering section M1 is (A1) A first cross section 150 extending from a first cross section start point P11 to a first cross section end point P12, wherein the first cross section start point P11 is the same as the meandering section start point PA1, or the first cross section start point P11 is positioned at a distance from the meandering section start point PA1 by a start section 180, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the first cross section 150 is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline MM moves from the first cross section start point P11 to the first cross section end point P12, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA1 approaches the first end point 111, (A2) A bridge section 160 extending from the end point P12 of the first cross section to the end point P14 of the bridge section in the direction of the second end 112, (A3) A second cross section 170 extending from the end point P14 of the bridge section to a second cross section end point P16 which is the same as the end point PB1 of the meandering section, or is located at a distance from the end point PB1 of the meandering section by the end section 190, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section 170 is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline moves from the end point P14 of the bridge section to the end point P16 of the second cross section, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA1 approaches the first end point 11.

[0098] In the first meandering section M1 of the embodiment of the preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7, the meandering center line MM of the meandering section M is an arc, and the center point of the arc is (R1) A perpendicular line SP11 to the tangent line tangent to the meandering centerline at the starting point P11 of the first cross section, where the meandering centerline is located in the first cross section 150, and the perpendicular line SP11 is located therein. (R2) A perpendicular line SP16 to the tangent line to the meandering centerline located at the second meandering termination point P16, where the meandering centerline is defined by the intersection of two lines, the perpendicular line SP16 and the (R2) line, which are located in the second cross section 170.

[0099] The second meandering section M2 is (A1) A first cross section 250 extending from a first cross section start point P21 to a first cross section end point P22, wherein the first cross section start point P21 is the same as the meandering section start point PA2, or the first cross section start point P21 is positioned at a distance from the meandering section start point PA2 by a start section 280, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the first cross section 250 is defined such that when a line point on the meandering section centerline MM moves from the first cross section start point P21 to the first cross section end point P22, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA2 approaches the first end point 111, (A2) A bridge section 260 extending from the end point P22 of the first cross section to the end point P24 of the bridge section in the direction of the second end 112, (A3) A second cross section 270 extending from the end point P24 of the bridge section to a second cross section end point P26 which is the same as the end point PB2 of the meandering section, or is located at a distance from the end point PB2 of the meandering section by the end section 290, wherein the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section 270 is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline moves from the end point P24 of the bridge section to the end point P26 of the second cross section, the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA2 approaches the first end 111.

[0100] In the second meandering section M2 of the embodiment of the preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7, the meandering center line MM of the meandering section M is an arc, and the center point of the arc is (R1) A perpendicular line SP21 to the tangent to the meandering centerline at the starting point P21 of the first cross section, where the meandering centerline is located in the first cross section 250, and the perpendicular line SP21 is located therein. (R2) SP26 is a perpendicular line to the tangent line of the meandering centerline at the second meandering termination point P26, where the meandering centerline is defined by the intersection of two lines, the perpendicular line SP26 and the meandering centerline, in the second cross section 270.

[0101] In the embodiment of the preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7, the second meandering section M2 has a first cross section 250 according to definition (A1) adjacent to the second cross section 170 of each first meandering section M1.

[0102] A preloading device according to the present invention, in particular one of the preloading devices 10 or 100 described herein, i.e., a preloading device having a first end 11 or 111, a second end 12 or 112, and at least one spring device F or F1 or F2 connecting the first end 11 or 111 and the second end 12 or 112 along a spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2, is generally formed by at least one spring device F or F1 or F2. A preloading device according to the present invention, independently of the features of preloading devices separately described herein, comprises at least one spring device F, F1, F2 having at least one meandering portion M or M1 or M2, the meandering portion M or M1 or M2 having an overall elongated shape and forming a meandering loop shape, (B1) Having a first cross section 50, 150, or 250, (B2) Having a bridge section 60, 160, or 260, (B3) It has a second cross section 70, 170, or 270.

[0103] The meandering section M, M1, or M2 generally has an elongated shape. The first cross section 50, 150, or 250 and the second cross section 70, 170, or 270 together form the meandering section M, M1, or M2 in the form of a meandering loop.

[0104] In particular, the first transverse portion 50, 150, or 250 extends at least partially in the transverse direction to the end region of the first transverse portion with respect to the individual spring device reference axis RA, RA1, or RA2, and the second transverse portion 70, 170, or 270 extends at least partially in the transverse direction to the end region of the second transverse portion with respect to the individual spring device reference axis RA, RA1, or RA2.

[0105] The bridge section 60, 160, or 260 connects the first cross section 50, 150, or 250 to the second cross section 70, 70, or 270. In particular, the first end of the bridge section 60, 160, or 260 is connected to the end region of the first cross section, and the second end of the bridge section 60, 160, or 260 is connected to the end region of the second cross section. Individual bridge sections 60, 160, or 260 may be positioned lateral to individual spring device reference axes RA, RA1, or RA2.

[0106] In this regard, a vertical plane VE is defined with respect to the preloading device on which the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2 is located and which intersects the individual bridge section 60 or 160 or 260. In particular, the individual vertical planes VE intersect at the same center in their longitudinal path along the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2. For this purpose, specifically, the individual vertical planes VE intersect the individual bridge section 60 or 160 or 260 essentially centrally, and especially centrally, in their longitudinal path along the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2.

[0107] In each of these modified forms, the first transverse portion 50, 150, or 250 is (T11) A first surface portion 51 that is at least partially oriented toward the first end 11 or 111, The first outer surface portion, particularly a continuously extending outer surface portion S50, has at least one of the portions (T11) and (T12), which consist of (T12) a second surface portion 53 oriented opposite to the first surface portion 51 and / or oriented toward the second end portion 12 or 112.

[0108] In combination with at least one of the above-defined portions T11, T12 of the first cross section 50 or 150 or 250, the first surface section 51 or the second surface section 52, or both surface sections 51, 52, the second angle α opening to the side end of the first end 11 or 111 between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the partial portion T11 or the first surface section 51 with the vertical plane VE and the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2 is at least partially less than 90 degrees. Furthermore, the second angle β opening to the side of the second end 12 or 112 between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the partial portion T11 or the second surface section 52 with the vertical plane VE and the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2 is at least partially less than 90 degrees.

[0109] In combination with, but independently of, this, the first outer surface portion S50 may be designed such that the contour lines K51 and K52 resulting from the intersection of the first outer surface portion S50 and the vertical plane VE extend in a straight line.

[0110] In combination with, or independently of, the first cross section 50 or 150 or 250 or the first surface section 51 or the second surface section 52 or both surface sections 51, 52, the second cross section 70 or 170 or 270, T21) A first surface portion 71 that is at least partially oriented toward the second end 12 or 112, The first outer surface portion, particularly a continuously extending outer surface portion S50, has at least one of portions (T11) and (T12) consisting of (T22) a second surface portion 72 oriented in the opposite direction to the first surface portion 71 and / or oriented toward the second end portion 12 or 112.

[0111] In combination with at least one of the above-defined portions (T21), (T22) of the second cross section 70 or 170 or 270, or the first surface section 71 or the second surface section 72, or both surface sections 71, 72, the second angle γ between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the partial portion T21 or the first surface section 71 with the vertical plane VE and the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2, opening towards the side of the second end 12 or 112, is at least partially less than 90 degrees. Furthermore, the second angle δ between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the partial portion (T22) or the second surface section 72 with the vertical plane VE and the individual spring device reference axis RA or RA1 or RA2, opening towards the side end of the first end 11 or 111, is at least partially greater than 90 degrees.

[0112] In combination with, but independently of, this, the second outer surface portion S70 may be designed such that the contour lines K71 and K72 resulting from the intersection of the second outer surface portion S70 and the vertical plane VE extend in a straight line.

[0113] In these embodiments of the preloading device according to the present invention, as will be described with reference to Figure 3 as an example, The spring devices F, F1, and F2 each comprise at least two meandering sections M1 and M2, each comprising parts (B1), (B2), and (B3). Following the second cross sections 70, 170, and 270 of the first meandering sections M1 and M2, the first cross sections 50, 150, and 250 of the second meandering sections M1 and M2 follow. The bridge sections 60, 160, and 260 of the meandering sections M1 and M2 are arranged front to back along the spring device reference axes RA, RA1, and RA2, and are periodically and alternately arranged on opposite sides with respect to the spring device reference axes RA, RA1, and RA2.

[0114] In particular, two meandering sections M1 and M2, which are continuous with each other along the individual spring device reference axes RA, RA1 and RA2, can be arranged point-symmetrically with respect to each other. This forms at least one S-shaped meander.

[0115] In the embodiment of the preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7, the first cross section 150 of the first meandering section M1 and the first cross section 250 of the second meandering section M2 extend in opposite directions from the respective first cross section starting points P11 or P21 with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

[0116] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 7, the first spring device F1 and the second spring device F2 are implemented in the same manner. In principle, the first spring device F1 and the second spring device F2 can be implemented in different ways.

[0117] The first end 111 has a first inner surface 111a facing the spring devices F1 and F2. Similarly, the second end 112 has a second inner surface 112a facing the spring devices F1 and F2. Thus, the first inner surface 111a and the second inner surface 112a are oriented to face each other. Thus, the first inner surface 111a and the second inner surface 112a can be used by the preloading device 100, in particular by the spring devices F1 and F2, as bearing surfaces for a component to be preloaded. The component to be preloaded is positioned either directly against the first inner surface 111a and the second inner surface 112a or one of these inner surfaces, or via an intermediate component (such as a bearing component or bearing housing) which can be formed from an elastic material. The component to be preloaded is located between the spring devices F1 and F2.

[0118] In the embodiment of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention shown in Figures 3 to 7, the preloading devices 10 and 100 may, in particular, comprise a first spring device F1, a second spring device F2, first ends 11 and 111, and second ends 12 and 112, where the first spring device F1 connects the first end 11 and the second end 12 along the first spring device reference axis RA1, and the second spring device F2 connects the first ends 11 and 111 and the second ends 12 and 112 along the second spring device reference axis RA2.

[0119] Each spring device F1, F2 includes, in each case, two meandering sections M1, M2, each having two transverse sections 50, 70; 150, 170; 250, 270, these transverse sections partially increase in distance from each other with respect to the reference line or spring device reference axes RA, RA1, RA2 of the individual spring devices, and are connected to each other by bridge sections as the distance from the reference line or spring device reference axes RA, RA1, RA2 becomes greater.

[0120] In the embodiments of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention shown in Figures 3 to 7, both the first end 111 and the second end 112 are, in each case, equipped with a separation device 130 integrated with the first end 111 and the second end 112. In the modified embodiments of Figures 3 to 7, only one end, i.e., only the first end 111 or only the second end 112, is equipped with a separation device 130.

[0121] The embodiments of the preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7 are such that each of the separation devices 130 comprises a first pivot bearing having a first rotation axis and a second pivot bearing having a second rotation axis, with the first and second rotation axes extending transversely to each other. The first end 111 comprises a first pivot joint 131 having a first rotation axis and a second pivot joint 133 having a second rotation axis, and the second end 112 comprises a first pivot joint 132 having a first rotation axis and a second pivot joint 134 having a second rotation axis. The first pivot joints 131, 132 and the second pivot joints 133, 134 are each implemented as inclined bearings or pivot bearings in the form of flexible joints or structural joints.

[0122] In an embodiment of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention shown in Figures 3 to 7, the first end 111 comprises a first portion or inner portion 141 having ends 115a, 117a, 115b, and 117b that form a first inner surface 111a on the side facing the individual spring device F. Furthermore, the first end 111 comprises a second portion or outer portion 143 positioned adjacent to or at a distance from the first portion 141 along the spring device reference axis RA. The intermediate portion 145 is located between the first portion 141 and the second portion 143. A first pivot joint 131 is formed or positioned between the first portion 141 and the intermediate portion 145. As a result, the first portion 141 and the intermediate portion 145 are supported so that they can rotate relative to each other, and in particular so that they can tilt or pivot relative to each other. A second pivot joint 133 is formed or positioned between the intermediate portion 145 and the second portion 143. As a result, the first section 141 and the intermediate section 145 are supported so that they can rotate relative to each other, and in particular so that they can tilt or pivot relative to each other. The axes of rotation of the first pivot joint 131 and the second pivot joint 133 extend perpendicular to each other.

[0123] In the embodiment of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention, which will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 7, the pivot joints 131 and 132 can each be implemented as solid-state joints. As a result, a restoring torque is generated in both the case of rotation or tilting of the first portion 141 relative to the intermediate portion 145, or the case of pivoting, tilting, or swiveling of the intermediate portion 145 relative to the second portion 143.

[0124] Depending on the application, the pivot joint 131 or pivot joint 132 may not be provided, and as a result, the intermediate section 145 can be omitted. As described above, in an embodiment of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention described herein with reference to Figures 3 to 7, the second end 112 may comprise a first portion or inner portion 142 having ends 116a, 118a, 116b, 118 that form a second inner surface 112a on the side facing the individual spring device F. Furthermore, the second end 112 comprises a second portion or outer portion 144 that is located adjacent to or at a distance from the first portion 142 along the spring device reference axis RA. The intermediate portion 146 is located between the first portion 142 and the second portion 144. A first pivot joint 132 is formed or positioned between the first portion 142 and the intermediate portion 146. As a result, the first portion 142 and the intermediate portion 146 are supported so that they can rotate relative to each other, and in particular so that they can tilt or pivot relative to each other. The second pivot joint 134 is formed or positioned between the intermediate section 146 and the second section 144. As a result, the first section 142 and the intermediate section 146 are supported so that they can rotate relative to each other, and in particular so that they can tilt or pivot relative to each other. The axes of rotation of the first pivot joint 132 and the second pivot joint 134 extend perpendicular to each other.

[0125] In the embodiment of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention shown in Figures 3 to 7, the pivot joints 133 and 134 are implemented as a flexible hinge or a structural hinge, respectively. As a result, a restoring torque is generated when the first part 142 pivots, tilts, or rotates relative to the intermediate part 146, or when the intermediate part 146 pivots, tilts, or rotates relative to the second part 144.

[0126] Depending on the application, pivot joints 132 and 134 may not be required, and as a result, the intermediate section 146 can be omitted. According to the present invention, the second portion 143 as part of the first end 111 is intended to be attached to or mounted on a first application component (not shown), and the second portion 144 as part of the second end 112 is intended to be fixed to or mounted on a second application component (not shown).

[0127] The outer portion 143 may include a mounting device 147 for coupling the outer portion 143 to a first application component in the application environment, or for mounting the outer portion 143 to a first application component in the application environment. The mounting device 147 may, in particular, include at least one mounting hole or another fixing component. In the representation in Figures 5 to 7, the mounting device 147 includes two mounting holes 147a and 147b.

[0128] The outer portion 144 may include a mounting device 148 for coupling the outer portion 144 to a second application component in the application environment, or for mounting the outer portion 144 to a second application component in the application environment. The mounting device 148 may, in particular, include at least one mounting hole or another fixing component. In the representation in Figures 5 to 7, the mounting device 148 includes two mounting holes 148a and 148b.

[0129] When the preloading device 10 is used in accordance with the present invention, an actuator positioned between ends 111 and 112 causes the ends 111 and 112 to move relative to each other along the spring device reference axes RA1 and RA2, thereby causing the first application part to move relative to the second application part against the spring force of the individual spring devices F1 and F2. In an alternative application example of the preloading device 100 according to the present invention, the first application part may be preloaded relative to the second application part by an individual spring device F.

[0130] The features of the preloading device 100 described with reference to Figures 3 to 7 can be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments of preloading devices described separately herein.

[0131] The embodiment of the preloading device 300 shown in Figure 8 differs from the preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7 in that each spring device F1 and F2 is equipped only with a first meandering section M1 and a second meandering section M2.

[0132] Figures 9 to 12 show embodiments of the drive device 1 according to the present invention. Generally, the drive unit 1 comprises a preloading device implemented according to the embodiments described herein and an actuator 5, which is preferably a piezoelectric actuator. The actuator 5 is positioned between the first and second ends of the preloading device. In this case, the actuator 5 is implemented to extend and retract along the spring device reference axis, in particular in the case of the corresponding electrical operation. When the actuator is used in the drive unit 1, the actuator 5 may be implemented such that its function is established or improved by lateral preloads acting on the actuator 5 from both sides along the spring device reference axis.

[0133] The embodiment of the drive device 1 according to the present invention shown in Figures 9 to 12 includes a preloading device 100 shown in Figures 3 to 7 and described herein with reference to Figures 3 to 7. The actuator 5 is positioned between the first end 111 and the second end 112 of the preloading device 100.

[0134] Alternatively, the drive unit 1 may be comprised of another preloading device described herein, in particular an embodiment of the preloading device 10 described herein with reference to Figures 1 and 2, or in particular an embodiment of the preloading device 300 described herein with reference to Figure 8. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0135] 10...Preload device 11...First end 11a…First inner surface (of the first end 11) 12...Second end 12a…Second inner surface (of the second end 12) 13…First support part (of the first end 11) 14…Second support part (of the second end 12) 15… (the first end of the first support part 13) 16…the first end (of the second support 14) 17…The second end (of the first support 13) 18…The second end (of the second support 14) 20…Connection device 21...First connection part 22...Second connection point 23…the first end (of the first connection part 21) 24…the first end (of the second connection part 22) 25… (the second end of the first connection part 21) 26…The second end (of the second connection part 22) 30...Separation device 31…Separation layer (of separation device 30) 32…Separation layer (of separation device 30) 33...the first part (of the first end 11) 34...the first part (of the second end 12) 35...the second part (of the first end 11) 36… (the second part of the second end 12) 50…The first crossing (of the meandering section M) 60... (Bridge section of meandering section M) 70... (Second crossing of the meandering section M) 80... (Beginning of the first cross section 50) 90...End of (second cross section 70) 100...Preload device 111... First end 111a… (First inner surface of the first end 111) 112...Second end 112a…Second inner surface (of the second end 112) 113…First support part (of the first end 111) 114…Second support part (of the second end 112) 115a...the first end (of the first support portion 113) 115b…the first end (of the first support 113) 116a…the first end (of the second support 114) 116b…the first end (of the second support 114) 117a... (the second end of the first support 113) 117b… (the second end of the first support 113) 118a... (the second end of the second support 114) 118b…The second end (of the second support 114) 120...Connection device 121a... First connection part (of the first end 111) 121b…First connection (of the first end 111) 122a...Second connection (of the second end 112) 122b…Second connection (of the second end 112) 123a… (the first end of the first connection parts 121a, 121b) 123b…the first end (of the first connection 121a, 121b) 124a… (the first end of the second connection parts 122a, 122b) 124b…the first end (of the second connection 122a, 122b) 125a… (the second end of the first connection parts 121a and 121b) 125b…The second end (of the first connection points 121a and 121b) 126a… (the second end of the second connection parts 122a and 122b) 126b…The second end (of the second connection points 122a and 122b) 130...Separation device 131… (First pivot joint of the first end 111) 132… (of the second end 112) First pivot joint 133…Second pivot joint (of the first end 111) 134…Second pivot joint (of the second end 112) 141...the first part (of the first end 111) 142...the first part (of the second end 112) 143... (the second part of the first end 111) 144... (the second part of the second end 112) 145… (Intermediate part of the first end 111) 146… (the middle part of the second end 112) 147…First mounting device (of the first end 111) 147a…Mounting hole (of the first end 111) 147b…Mounting hole (of the first end 111) 148…Second mounting device (of the second end 112) 148a…Mounting hole (of the second end 112) 148b…Mounting hole (of the second end 112) 150... (First cross section of the first meandering section M1) 160...Bridge section (of the first meandering section M1) 170... (Second cross section of the first meandering section M1) 180... (Start of the first cross section 150) 190... (End of the second cross section 170) 250... (First cross section of the second meandering section M2) 260...Bridge section (of the second meandering section M2) 270... (Second cross section of the second meandering section M2) 280... (Beginning of the first cross section 250) 290... (End of the second cross section 250) 300…Preload device A1...part A2…part A3…part E1... First end of individual spring device E2... Second end of individual spring device E11...the first end of spring device F1 E12... Second end of spring device F1 E21... First end of spring device F2 E22... Second end of spring device F2 F... Spring device F1... Spring device F2... Spring device M...Meandering section MM...Meandering centerline P1...Starting point of the first crossing P2...End point of the first crossing P4...End point of the bridge section P6...End point of the second crossing P11...Starting point of the first crossing P12...End point of the first crossing P14...End of bridge section P16...End point of the second crossing P21...Starting point of the first crossing P22...End point of the first crossing P24...End of bridge section P26...End point of the second crossing PA…Starting point PA1…Starting point PA2…Starting point PB...Finishing point PB1…Finishing point PB2...Finishing point RA... Spring device reference axis RA1... Spring device reference axis RA2... Spring device reference axis S... axis of symmetry of the spring device SP1... Perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline MM. SP6... Perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline MM. SP11... Perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline MM. SP16... Perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline MM. SP21... Perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline MM. SP26... Perpendicular to the tangent to the meandering centerline MM. X... Longitudinal axis Y…Vertical axis Z...horizontal axis

Claims

1. A preloading device (10, 100) comprising a first spring device (F1), a second spring device (F2), a first end (11, 111), and a second end (12, 112), wherein the first spring device (F1) connects the first end (11) and the second end (12) along the first spring device reference axis (RA1), and the second spring device (F2) connects the first end (11, 111) and the second end (12, 112) along the second spring device reference axis (RA2). Each spring device (F1, F2) comprises a meandering section (M1, M2) having a meandering centerline (MM) and first and second cross sections (50, 70; 150, 170; 250, 270), where each of the first and second cross sections (50, 70; 150, 170; 250, 270) is defined as a section in which a line point on the meandering centerline (MM) moves toward the corresponding end (11, 111, 12, 112) based on a perpendicular projection onto the corresponding spring device reference axis (RA1, RA2), and each spring device reference... With respect to the line or the spring device reference axes (RA, RA1, RA2), the distance between the first and second cross sections increases in the distance-increasing section where the distance from the corresponding spring device reference axes (RA1, RA2) in the section of the meandering centerline (MM) increases, and the first and second cross sections are connected to each other in bridge sections (60, 160, 260) that are further away from the reference line or the spring device reference axes (RA, RA1, RA2) than the distance-increasing section. The first cross sections (50, 150, 250) extend from the first cross section start points (P1, P11, P21) of the section located on the meandering centerline (MM) to the first cross section end points (P2, P12, P22) of the section located on the meandering centerline (MM), The bridge sections (60, 160, 260) extend from the first cross section end points (P2, P12, P22) to the second end points (12, 112) of the bridge section, which are located on the meandering centerline (MM), to the bridge section end points (P4, P14, P24) located on the meandering centerline (MM). The second cross sections (70, 170, 270) extend from the end points of the bridge section (P4, P14, P24) to the end points of the second cross sections (P6, P16, P26) of the section located on the meandering centerline (MM). Preloading device (10, 100) wherein the thickness of at least one meandering section (M1, M2) continuously increases along the path of the meandering centerline (MM) in the region between the first cross section start point (P1, P11, P21) and the second cross section end point (P6, P16, P26), and then decreases after reaching a maximum thickness, the maximum thickness being located in the intermediate region of the bridge section (60, 160, 260).

2. Each spring device (F1, F2) is formed from at least one meandering section (M1, M2), the meandering section (M1, M2) includes a meandering centerline (MM) in its path, the meandering section (M1) extends from a meandering section start point (PA, PA1, PA2) to a meandering section end point (PB, PB1, PB2), the meandering section start point (PA, PA1, PA2) and the meandering section end point (PB, PB1, PB2) are located on the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2), and the meandering section (M1) is, (A1) The first cross section (50, 150, 250), wherein the starting point of the first cross section (P1, P11, P21) is the same as the starting point of the meandering section (PA, PA1, PA2), or the starting point of the first cross section (P1, P11, P21) is positioned at a distance from the starting point of the meandering section (PA, PA1, PA2) by the starting section (80, 180, 280), and the first cross section (50, 150 The path of the meandering centerline in 250) is defined such that when a line point on the meandering centerline (MM) moves from the first cross section start point (P1, P11, P21) to the first cross section end point (P2, P12, P22), the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis RA approaches the first end point (11, 111), in the first cross section (50, 150, 250), (A2) The bridge section (60, 160, 260) and (A3) The second cross section (70, 170, 270), wherein the end point of the second cross section (P6) is the same as the end point of the meandering section (PB, PB1, PB2) from the end point of the bridge section (P4, P14, P24), or is located at a distance from the end point of the meandering section (PB, PB1, PB2) by the end section (90, 190, 290), and the path of the meandering centerline in the second cross section (70, 170, 270) is the same as the line on the meandering centerline. The preloading device (10, 100) according to claim 1, comprising portions (A1), (A2), (A3) consisting of the second cross section (70, 170, 270), which is defined such that when a point moves from the end point of the bridge section (P4, P14, P24) to the end point of the second cross section (P6, P16, P26), the point obtained from the perpendicular projection of the moved line point onto the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2) approaches the first end (11, 111).

3. The preloading device (10, 100) according to claim 2, wherein the distance between the end points of the first transverse section (P2, P12, P22) and the end points of the bridge section (P4, P14, P24) extends parallel to the reference axis of the spring device (RA, RA1, RA2).

4. The section of the meandering centerline (MM) of the at least one meandering section (M1, M2) between the end points of the first cross section (P2, P12, P22) and the end points of the bridge section (P4, P14, P24) is, (C1) Straight path and (C2) A curved path having a uniform curvature that is concave when viewed from the reference axis of the spring device (RA, RA1, RA2), the preload device (10, 100) according to claim 2 or 3, having one of the following shapes.

5. The at least one meandering section (M1, M2) is shaped such that the section of the meandering centerline (MM, MM1, MM2) between the first cross section start point (P1) and the second cross section end points (P6, P16, P26) is an arc, and the center point of the arc is, (R1) Perpendicular lines (SP1, SP11, SP21) on the tangent to the meandering centerline (MM, MM1, MM2) at the starting points (P1, P11, P21) of the first cross section (50, 150, 250), (R2) Defined by the intersection of the perpendiculars (SP6, SP16, SP26) with the tangents to the meandering centerlines (MM, MM1, MM2) at the second meandering termination points (P6, P16, P26) in the second cross section (70, 170, 270), The preloading device (10, 100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the opening angle (φ) extending between the two perpendiculars (SP1, P11, P21, SP6, P16, P26) is greater than 180 degrees and less than 330 degrees.

6. The preloading device (10, 100) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the first spring device (F1) and the second spring device (F2) each comprise at least two meandering sections (M1, M2) having portions (A1), (A2), and (A3), respectively, and the bridge sections (60, 160, 260) of the meandering sections (M1, M2) in the same spring device (F1, F2) are arranged front to back along the individual spring device reference axes (RA1, RA2), and are periodically and alternately arranged on opposite sides with respect to the individual spring device reference axes (RA1, RA2).

7. The preloading device (10, 100) according to claim 6, wherein the reference axis of the spring device (RA, RA1, RA2) is the center line of the spring device (F, F1, F2).

8. Each spring device (F1, F2) includes two meandering sections (M1, M2), and the first meandering section (M1) includes parts (A1), (A2), and (A3). The further meandering section (M2) is connected to the second cross section (70, 170, 270) of the first meandering section (M1) which has the first cross section (50, 150, 250) according to definition (A1), The further meandering section (M2) includes the bridge section (60, 160, 260) according to definition (A2), which is connected to the first cross section (50, 150, 250) of the further meandering section (M2). The further meandering section (M2) includes a second cross section (70, 170, 270) according to definition (A3), which is connected to the bridge section (60, 160, 260) of the further meandering section (M2). The preloading device (10, 100) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the bridge portion (60) of the first meandering portion (M1) and the bridge portions (60, 160, 260) of the further meandering portion (M2) are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the spring device reference axis RA.

9. The preloading device (10, 100) comprises at least two meandering sections (M1, M2) located directly adjacent to each other. A preloading device (10, 100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein one of the meandering sections (M1, M2) includes an end section (90, 190, 290), adjacent meandering sections (M1, M2) include an start section (80, 180, 280), and the start section (80, 180, 280) is directly connected to the end section (90, 190, 290).

10. The preloading device (10, 100) according to claim 9, wherein the starting sections (80, 180, 280) directly connected to the ending sections (90, 190, 290) are arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the ending sections (90, 190, 290).

11. The preloading device (10, 100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first spring device reference axis (RA1) of the first spring device (F1) and the second spring device reference axis (RA2) of the second spring device (F2) are arranged axially symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry of the spring device.

12. The preloading device (10, 100) according to claim 11, wherein the first spring device reference axis (RA1) of the first spring device (F1) and the second spring device reference axis (RA2) of the second spring device (F2) extend parallel to each other.

13. A preloading device (10, 100) comprising a first end (11, 111), a second end (12, 112), and at least one spring device (F, F1, F2) connecting the first end (11, 111) to the second end (12, 112) along a spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2), Each of the spring devices (F1, F2) includes at least one meandering section (M1, M2), each meandering section (M1, M2) having a meandering centerline (MM) and first and second cross sections (50, 70; 150, 170; 250, 270), where each of the first and second cross sections (50, 70; 150, 170; 250, 270) is such that a line point on the meandering centerline (MM) approaches a corresponding end (11, 111, 12, 112) based on a perpendicular projection onto the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2). Defined as a section that moves, the distances of the first and second cross sections increase in proportion to each other in the region where the distance from the spring device reference axes (RA, RA1, RA2) in the section of the meandering centerline (MM) increases, and the first and second cross sections are connected to each other by bridge sections (60, 160, 260) that are at a greater distance from the reference line or the spring device reference axes (RA, RA1, RA2). The first cross sections (50, 150, 250) extend from the first cross section start points (P1, P11, P21) of the section located on the meandering centerline (MM) to the first cross section end points (P2, P12, P22) of the section located on the meandering centerline (MM), The bridge sections (60, 160, 260) extend from the first cross section end points (P2, P12, P22) to the second end points (12, 112) of the bridge section, which are located on the meandering centerline (MM), to the bridge section end points (P4, P14, P24) located on the meandering centerline (MM). The second cross sections (70, 170, 270) extend from the end points of the bridge section (P4, P14, P24) to the end points of the second cross sections (P6, P16, P26) of the section located on the meandering centerline (MM). The thickness of at least one meandering section (M1, M2) continuously increases along the path of the meandering centerline (MM) in the region between the first cross section start point (P1, P11, P21) and the second cross section end point (P6, P16, P26), and then decreases after reaching a maximum thickness, the maximum thickness being located in the intermediate region of the bridge section (60, 160, 260), The first end (11, 111) or the second end (12, 112), or both the first end (11, 111) and the second end (12, 112), are equipped with a separation device (30, 130) for eliminating the influence of lateral forces directed transversely with respect to the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2), The separation device (30, 130) is (U) The separation device has a first pivot bearing (131) having a first rotation axis and a second pivot bearing (133) having a second rotation axis, wherein the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis extend perpendicular to each other. (V) A preloading device (10, 100) having one of feature groups (U), (V), or both of feature groups (U), (V), wherein the separating device (30, 130) includes at least one flexible hinge or structural hinge.

14. The at least one spring device (F, F1, F2) is formed from at least two meandering sections (M1, M2), and each of the meandering sections (M1, M2) is (B1) The first cross section (50, 150, 250) and (B2) Bridge section (60, 160, 260) (B3) It forms a meandering loop shape having a second transverse section (70, 170, 270), The bridge section (60, 160, 260) connects the first transverse section (50, 150, 250) to the second transverse section (70, 170, 270), and the vertical plane (VE) intersects the bridge section (60, 160, 260) at least partially. The first transverse portion (50, 150, 250) has a first outer surface portion (S50) having at least one first surface portion (51) oriented at least partially toward the first end portion (11, 111) and a second surface portion (52) oriented opposite to the first surface portion (41), and the second angle (α) between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the first surface portion (51) and the vertical plane (VE) and the individual spring device reference axes (RA, RA1, RA2) opening to the side end of the first end portion (11, 111) is at least partially less than 90 degrees. The second transverse portion (70, 170, 270) has a second outer surface portion (S70) having at least one first surface portion (71) oriented at least partially toward the second end portion (12, 112) and a second surface portion (72) oriented opposite to the first surface portion (71), and the second angle (γ) between the contour line resulting from the intersection of the first surface portion (71) and the vertical plane (VE) and the individual spring device reference axes (RA, RA1, RA2), opening toward the second end portion (12, 112), is at least partially less than 90 degrees. The first cross sections (50, 150, 250) of the second meandering section (M1, M2) are connected to the second cross sections (70, 170, 270) of the first meandering section (M1, M2). The preloading device (10, 100) according to claim 13, wherein the bridge portions (60, 160, 260) of the meandering portions (M1, M2) arranged front to back along the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2) are periodically and alternately arranged on different sides with respect to the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2).

15. A drive unit (1), A preloading device (10, 200, 300) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, A drive device (1) comprising: an actuator (5) positioned between the first ends (11, 111) and the second ends (12, 112), which expands or contracts along the spring device reference axis (RA, RA1, RA2) when operated.

Images