Actuator device, magnetic actuator, and method for operating the actuator device

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuator device (14), in particular a magnetic actuator device, having an armature unit (10) which comprises: at least one armature element (12), which is mounted at least for linear movement and is provided at least for interacting with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator (16) that has the actuator device (14); and at least one, in particular rod-like, actuating element (18) which is mounted at least for linear movement and which is preferably provided for transmitting, in at least one operating mode, an actuating movement that is generated by the armature element (12). According to the invention, the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) are mounted for translational movement relative to one another in particular in at least one actuating direction (20) of the actuator device (14).

Description

[0001] ACTUATOR DEVICE, MAGNETIC ACTUATOR AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE ACTUATOR DEVICE

[0002] State of the art

[0003] The invention relates to an actuator device according to the preamble of claim 1, a magnetic actuator according to claim 19 and a method according to the preamble of claim 20.

[0004] An actuator device with an armature unit, comprising at least one armature element mounted at least linearly movable, which is provided at least for interaction with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator having the actuator device, and comprising at least one actuating element mounted at least linearly movable, has already been proposed.

[0005] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with advantageous properties with regard to a force characteristic, in particular a force-displacement characteristic, of an actuating element, in particular a currentless one. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent patent claims, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent subclaims.

[0006] Advantages of the invention

[0007] The invention is based on an actuator device, in particular a magnetic actuator device, with an armature unit, comprising at least one armature element which is mounted at least linearly movable and which is provided at least for interaction with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator having the actuator device, and comprising at least one actuating element which is mounted at least linearly movable, in particular rod-like, and which is preferably provided in at least one operating mode for transmitting an actuating movement generated by the armature element.

[0008] It is proposed that the actuating element and the armature element be mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another, particularly in at least one actuating direction of the actuator device. This allows advantageous, particularly currentless, force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. Advantageously, new force characteristics can be provided for the actuating elements of the magnetic actuators. For example, currentless force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, can be advantageously provided for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, which are constant or increasing over a large stroke range.

[0009] In this context, an "actuator device" is to be understood as at least one part, in particular a subassembly, of an actuator, in particular a magnetic actuator. Advantageously, the actuator device is intended at least for use in an application that allows external tension or pressure on the actuating element. In particular, in this application, the actuating element should be capable of being significantly deflected in response to the tension or pressure, while at the same time the armature element operatively connected to the actuating element remains undeflected. Furthermore, in this application, the actuating element should be capable of automatically returning to an undeflected home position upon removal of the external tension or pressure. In particular, in this application, a function comparable to a self-retracting tongue of a ratchet is to be implemented for the actuating element (hereinafter also referred to as the ratchet function or "reclamp function").In this case, the actuating element particularly represents the tongue or at least part of the tongue of the ratchet. In particular, an armature unit of a magnetic actuator with the ratchet function / reclamp function moves to a preferred fixed position without current after a deflection. The armature unit, in particular at least the armature element, is designed to be moved in an actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator, for example one or more magnetic coils of the magnetic actuator. In particular, the armature unit consists at least partially of a ferromagnetic material and / or comprises a permanent magnet. The armature element can, for example, comprise at least one ferromagnetic disk or be designed as one or more ferromagnetic disks. In particular, the actuating element is designed as a rod. The actuating element can form a guide rod for the armature element. In particular, the armature element encloses the actuating element in the circumferential direction.The actuating element can be made of a non-ferromagnetic material, in particular a non-magnetic material.

[0010] In particular, the actuating element is substantially longer, preferably at least three times longer, more preferably at least five times longer, and particularly preferably at least ten times longer, than the armature element, particularly in a direction parallel to an intended actuating direction of the actuating element and / or armature element. In particular, the actuating direction of the actuator device runs parallel to a main extension direction of the actuating element and / or to an axial direction of the, in particular disc-shaped, armature element. In particular, the armature element is arranged entirely within the magnetic actuator. In particular, the actuating element partially protrudes from the magnetic actuator. In particular, the actuating element can be configured to perform an actuating function for which the magnetic actuator is provided. In particular, the actuating element is mounted so as to be linearly movable at least parallel to its main extension direction.A "main extension direction" of an object should be understood in particular as a direction that runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallest geometric cuboid that just completely encloses the object. In particular, the rod-like actuating element has an extension parallel to its main extension direction that is at least three times, preferably at least five times, and preferably at least ten times as large as an extension of the rod-like actuating element in any direction perpendicular to the main extension direction of the actuating element. In particular, the actuating element is mounted for translation within a recess of the anchor element (and vice versa). In particular, the actuating element is mounted for longitudinal movement in the actuating direction within the recess of the anchor element (and vice versa)."Configured" or "intended" should be understood in particular to mean specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended or configured for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0011] It is further proposed that the actuating element and the armature element are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another such that a resistance force against pulling out or pushing out of the actuating element in the actuating direction is at least constant or continuously increasing, preferably at least substantially linearly increasing, for at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of a total stroke of the armature unit. This makes it possible to realize advantageous, in particular currentless, force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. This advantageously enables new applications of the magnetic actuator. In particular, the armature element is movable between two stops within the magnetic actuator. The distance between the two stops can be regarded as the total stroke.Alternatively, in addition to the distance between the two stops, the maximum deflection of the actuating element relative to the armature element could be added to the total stroke. In particular, the resistance force against pulling out or pushing out the actuating element in the actuating direction in a further range, which adjoins the range with constant or increasing resistance force, is significantly smaller, in particular at least three times smaller, preferably at least five times smaller, and more preferably at least ten times smaller than the lowest resistance force in the range with constant or increasing resistance force. In particular, the further range comprises at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of the total stroke of the armature unit.In particular, the anchor element is movable relative to the actuating element by a distance which is at least half as large, preferably at least as large and preferably greater than a maximum extension of the anchor element in the actuating direction in the mounted state of the anchor element.

[0012] It is also proposed that the actuator device comprise a spring element supported on the armature element and on the actuating element. This enables advantageous force characteristics, particularly when de-energized, and in particular force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. Advantageously, the spring element can compensate for a decreasing holding force with which the armature unit is fixed in the magnetic actuator in the de-energized state upon actuation of the actuating element, so that the resistance force against pulling out or pushing out of the actuating element cannot decrease upon actuation of the actuating element. In particular, the spring element is supported on the armature element and on the actuating element in such a way that when the spring element is tensioned, the armature element and the actuating element are pressed away from one another.Alternatively, however, the spring element could also be supported on the armature element and on the actuating element in such a way that when the spring element is tensioned, the armature element and the actuating element are pulled towards one another. In particular, the armature element has a spring element support surface via which the spring element is supported on the armature element. In particular, the spring element support surface is arranged on an axial surface of the armature element. A normal vector of the axial surface of the armature element runs at least substantially parallel to the axial direction of the armature element and / or to the actuating direction. In particular, different, preferably mutually facing, longitudinal ends of the spring element are supported once on the armature element and once on the actuating element.

[0013] It is further proposed that the actuating element have at least one radially extending support projection for supporting a longitudinal end of the spring element. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve a simple and / or compact design. In particular, the spring element is supported on the actuating element in a central region of the actuating element. In particular, the support projection is arranged in a region of the actuating element which is more than 10% of a total longitudinal extent of the actuating element away from one of the longitudinal ends of the actuating element. In particular, the spring element is not supported on one of the longitudinal ends of the actuating element. The support projection can extend circumferentially around the actuating element. Alternatively, the support projection can be one of several support projections arranged along the circumference of the actuating element, which jointly support the spring element but are spatially separated from one another.It is conceivable that a position of the support projection along the longitudinal extent of the actuating element is adjustable and / or changeable. The support projection can be formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with the actuating element or can be mounted on the actuating element. The support projection is arranged on an outer circumference, in particular on a cylindrical surface, of the actuating element. The actuating element can have a cylindrical shape with a round or oval cross-section. Alternatively, the actuating element can also have a polygonal shape with a polygonal cross-section. Preferably, the actuating element is of the same shape at least over a large part of its longitudinal extent. As an alternative to supporting the spring element on the armature element, the spring element could also be supported on an opposite end of a displacement chamber in which the armature element is guided, e.g. on a magnetic core of the actuator device.In addition, the spring element could also be designed as a spring package comprising a plurality of individual springs.

[0014] Furthermore, alternatively or in addition to the spring element, a conical geometry could be provided, which is intended to influence a force curve of the armature unit when the armature element is detached from the magnetic core and thus to achieve the constant or continuously increasing resistance force when pulling out or against pushing out the actuating element in the actuating direction over a substantial part of the total stroke.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spring element strives, in particular is designed, to return the actuating element to a basic relative position between the armature element and the actuating element when deflected relative to the armature element. This advantageously enables an automatic reset function for the actuating element, in particular one having the constant or continuously increasing resistance force characteristic curve. A reclamp function for the magnetic actuator can advantageously be obtained. In particular, the spring element assumes a minimally tensioned operating state in the basic relative position between the armature element and the actuating element. It is also conceivable that the spring element is completely relaxed in the basic relative position between the armature element and the actuating element. In particular, a force must be exerted against the spring element when the armature element and the actuating element are translated relative to one another.In particular, the spring element fulfils a reset function with which the actuating element is reset after a deflection relative to the anchor element, in particular into the basic relative position.

[0016] In this context, it is proposed that the spring element is supported on the armature element and on the actuating element in such a way that a mutual translational movement of the armature element and the actuating element produces a tensioning or relaxing of the spring element. This advantageously makes it possible to generate an automatic reset function for the actuating element, in particular one having the constant or continuously increasing resistance force characteristic curve. A reclamp function for the magnetic actuator can advantageously be obtained. In particular, the mutual translational movement of the armature element and the actuating element produces a compression of the spring element. Alternatively or additionally, however, it is also conceivable that the mutual translational movement of the armature element and the actuating element produces a pulling apart of the spring element. In particular, the spring element can be tensioned by externally pulling on the actuating element or by externally pressing on the actuating element.

[0017] If the spring element surrounds at least a portion of the actuating element, preferably completely, a particularly compact design and / or a particularly uniform distribution of the tensile or compressive forces on the spring element can be advantageously achieved. In particular, the spring element surrounds a portion of the actuating element that is larger than the portion of the actuating element encompassed by the anchor element. In particular, the actuating element is arranged in an axial recess / an axial opening of the spring element in the assembled state.

[0018] It is also proposed that the spring element be arranged at least largely, preferably entirely, above or below the anchor element in the actuating direction and / or in the longitudinal direction of the actuating element and / or in the axial direction of the anchor element. This allows an advantageous design to be achieved.

[0019] If, in addition, the spring element is designed as a tension spring or as a compression spring, in particular a spiral compression spring or a spiral tension spring, a particularly simple construction can advantageously be made possible.

[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the armature element comprise a permanent magnet. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve an at least unstable magnetic actuator. Advantageously, a currentless fixing of a rest position in a resting operating state or a setting position of the armature unit can be enabled. In particular, the permanent magnet is polarized in the setting direction and / or in the axial direction of the armature element. In particular, the permanent magnet is disk-shaped. In particular, the permanent magnet completely surrounds a portion of the setting element. In particular, the permanent magnet is arranged between two disks, preferably ferromagnetic disks, of the armature element.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, it is proposed that the actuator device comprise a magnetic core unit with at least one magnetic core, which is immovably mounted in particular in the magnetic actuator and which has one, in particular another, permanent magnet. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve an at least unstable magnetic actuator. Advantageously, a currentless fixing of a rest position in a rest operating state or a setting position of the armature unit can be enabled. It is conceivable that the permanent magnet of the magnetic core unit is provided in addition to the permanent magnet of the armature element. If a permanent magnet is present in the magnetic core unit, the armature element, in particular the entire armature unit, is preferably designed free of permanent magnets. The setting element is designed free of permanent magnets. The magnetic core is preferably made of a ferromagnetic material.Examples of ferromagnetic materials, such as iron or ferromagnetic steel, are known to those skilled in the art.

[0022] It is further proposed that the spring element be configured, upon actuation, in particular upon tensioning, to generate a spring force which counteracts a magnetic holding force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic core of the actuator device. This makes it possible to realize advantageous, in particular currentless, force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. In particular, a force required to tension the spring element is smaller, preferably significantly smaller, than the (currentless) magnetic holding force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic core of the actuator device. In particular, the movement of the actuating element exerts a force on the spring element, whereby the spring force (tension force or extension force) generated by the spring element increases depending on the deflection / compression of the spring element.Only when the spring force of the spring element exceeds the magnetic holding force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic core does the armature element detach from the magnetic core, in particular by releasing the spring element. This advantageously only occurs after the actuating element has completed a significant portion of the total stroke of the armature unit while continuously tensioning the spring element. Alternatively, the spring element can be designed such that, before the magnetic holding force is exceeded by the spring force, the spring element is compressed or stretched to the block length. The armature element then detaches from the magnetic core upon further increasing the force after the block length has been reached.

[0023] It is also proposed that the spring force of the spring element generated when the actuating element is deflected relative to a stationary armature element, in particular one resting against a magnetic core of the actuator device, is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of a maximum possible relative stroke between the actuating element and the armature element, in particular of a total stroke of the actuating element, smaller than the magnet holding force. This makes it possible to realize advantageous, in particular currentless, force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. For example, currentless force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, can advantageously be provided for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, which are constant or increasing over a large stroke range. A reclamp function for the magnetic actuator can advantageously be obtained.The maximum possible relative travel between the actuating element and the armature element is preferably determined by a block length of the spring element. In particular, the maximum possible relative travel between the actuating element and the armature element corresponds to the maximum change in length that the spring element can experience without damage, and thus also to the maximum relative movement between the actuating element and the armature element.

[0024] It is additionally proposed that the spring element be designed in such a way that, upon deflection of the actuating element relative to the stationary armature element, in particular one resting against a magnetic core of the actuator device, a spring force of the spring element exceeds the magnet holding force at a point of the relative stroke between the actuating element and the armature element which is different from a rest relative position between the actuating element and the armature element and which is different from the maximum possible relative stroke between the actuating element and the armature element. In this way, advantageous, in particular currentless, force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, can be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. Advantageously, the reclamp function of the magnetic actuator can be retained.In particular, the point at which the spring force exceeds the magnetic holding force is more than 20%, preferably more than 30%, preferably more than 40% and particularly preferably more than 50% of the maximum possible relative stroke away from the rest relative position.

[0025] It is also proposed that the actuating element have an end stop for the armature element, which is arranged on a side of the armature element facing away from the spring element. This advantageously allows the actuating element to be carried along when the armature element is actuated. In addition to the reclamp function, a controllable actuating function for the actuating element can advantageously be obtained. In particular, the end stop is provided for carrying the actuating element with the armature element during a movement of the armature element, in particular in a direction facing away from the spring element, e.g. generated by an interaction with the actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator. The end stop is designed in particular as a radially extending projection of the actuating element. In particular, the end stop is arranged in a central region of the actuating element.In particular, the end stop is arranged in a region of the actuating element which is more than 10% of a total longitudinal extent of the actuating element away from one of the longitudinal ends of the actuating element. In particular, the end stop is arranged away from one of the longitudinal ends of the actuating element. The end stop can run circumferentially around the actuating element. Alternatively, the end stop can be one of several projections arranged along the circumference of the actuating element which interact. The end stop can be formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with the actuating element or can be mounted on the actuating element. The end stop is arranged on the outer circumference, in particular on the cylinder jacket surface, of the actuating element.

[0026] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuator device has a coil unit at least for generating the actuator magnetic field and / or that the coil unit has at least two magnetic coils, which are each arranged on different sides of the armature element, in particular sides facing away from one another. Advantageously, in addition to the reclamp function, a controllable actuating function for the actuating element can be obtained. In particular, the coil unit comprises at least one magnetic coil, preferably at least two magnetic coils. Preferably, one magnetic coil of the coil unit is arranged on each side of the armature element. Preferably, one magnetic coil of the coil unit is arranged at each end region of the total stroke. In particular, the magnetic coils are electrically controllable. In particular, the magnetic coils each completely encompass the actuating element.In particular, one of the magnetic coils is arranged above the armature element in the adjustment direction, while the other magnetic coil is arranged below the armature element in the adjustment direction.

[0027] It is conceivable that the magnetic coils are electrically connected in series or in parallel to one another. However, if the two magnetic coils can be controlled separately, in particular energized, contacted, and in particular electrically connected, a high degree of control over the movement of the armature unit can advantageously be achieved. In particular, for example, when a movement of the armature unit starts, the first magnetic coil can be used to push the armature element, while the second magnetic coil is used to pull the armature element. In addition, the force of an impact of the armature element and / or the development of noise can be reduced. For this purpose, in particular at the moment shortly before the armature element strikes, e.g., the magnetic core, i.e., in particular shortly before the end of the movement of the armature unit, the pushing magnetic coil, e.g., the first magnetic coil, can be switched off and the pulling magnetic coil, e.g.,the second magnetic coil, must be reversed.

[0028] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuator device comprise at least one magnetic core unit, wherein the actuating element is guided in at least one magnetic core of the magnetic core unit for translational movement, and / or wherein the armature element, in the resting operating state, in particular the currentless operating state, rests in contact with a magnetic core of the magnetic core unit. This allows for an advantageous design. In particular, in the resting state, the magnetic holding force acts on the armature element.

[0029] Furthermore, a magnetic actuator, in particular an electromagnet, preferably for an electromechanical brake and / or an electromechanical clutch, with the actuator device and / or a method for operating the actuator device is proposed. This allows advantageous, in particular currentless, force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, to be realized for actuating elements of magnetic actuators. Advantageously, new force characteristics can be provided for the actuating elements of the magnetic actuators. Advantageously, for example, currentless force characteristics, in particular force-displacement characteristics, can be provided for actuating elements of magnetic actuators, which are constant or increasing over a large stroke range. In particular, the actuating element can be provided for mechanically locking and / or arresting the electromechanical brakes and / or clutches.

[0030] The actuator device according to the invention, the magnetic actuator according to the invention, and the method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the actuator device according to the invention, the magnetic actuator according to the invention, and the method according to the invention are intended to have a number of individual elements, components, and units that differs from the number stated herein in order to fulfill a function described herein.

[0031] Drawings

[0032] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0033] They show:

[0034] Fig. 1 a is a schematic representation of a magnetic actuator with an actuator device having an actuating element,

[0035] Fig. 1 b is a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator, with the actuating element displaced,

[0036] Fig. 1 c is a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator, with the actuating element further displaced,

[0037] Fig. 2a is a schematic sectional view of the magnetic actuator with the actuator device and with an armature unit,

[0038] Fig. 2b is a schematic representation of the anchor unit with a spring element in a maximum relaxed state,

[0039] Fig. 2c is a schematic representation of the armature unit with the spring element in a tensioned state, Fig. 3 is an exemplary force-displacement diagram of the magnetic actuator,

[0040] Fig. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating the actuator device and

[0041] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator with the actuator device and with the armature unit in a state deflected by an actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator.

[0042] Description of the embodiment

[0043] Figures 1a to 1c each schematically show a magnetic actuator 16. The magnetic actuator 16 forms an electromagnet. The magnetic actuator 16 has an actuator device 14. The magnetic actuator 16 forms part of an electromechanical brake. The magnetic actuator 16 includes a ratchet function / reclamp function. The actuator device 14 includes an actuating element 18. The actuating element 18 is rod-shaped. The actuating element 18 is mounted in the magnetic actuator 16 for linear movement. In Fig. 1a, the actuating element 18 is in a rest position. In Figure 1b, the actuating element 18 is pulled out of a housing 62 of the magnetic actuator 16 by a force 60. If the force 60 were now removed, the ratchet function / reclamp function would ensure that the actuating element 18 automatically returns to the rest position of Figure 1a. In Figure 1 c, the actuating element 18 is actuated by a further force 64 which is greater than the force 60 in Fig.1b, pulled out of the housing 62 of the magnetic actuator 16 (external force) or pushed out (internal force generated by an actuator magnetic field). If the additional force 64 was large enough to overcome internal magnetic holding forces 42 (cf. Fig. 3) of the actuator device 14, the actuating element 18 will not automatically return to the rest position when the additional force 64 is removed. In this case, an opposing external force or a corresponding opposing force generated internally by the actuator magnetic field is provided to return the actuating element 18. Figure 2a shows a schematic sectional view of the magnetic actuator 16 with the actuator device 14. The actuator device 14 forms a magnetic actuator device. The actuator device 14 has an armature unit 10. The armature unit 10 is movably mounted in the housing 62. The armature unit 10 comprises an armature element 12.The armature element 12 is provided for interaction with the actuator magnetic field. The actuator device 14 has a coil unit 52. The coil unit 52 is provided for generating the actuator magnetic field. The coil unit 52 comprises a first magnetic coil 54. The coil unit 52 comprises a second magnetic coil 56. The magnetic coils 54, 56 are each arranged on different sides 50, 58 of the armature element 12. The magnetic coils 54, 56 are each arranged on sides 50, 58 of the armature element 12 facing away from one another. The magnetic actuator 16 forms a bistable magnetic actuator 16. The magnetic coils 54, 56 are provided for generating a movement of the armature unit 10, in particular between two stable positions at end points of a total stroke 24 of the armature unit 10. In Figure 2a, the armature unit 10 is in a first stable position of the bistable magnetic actuator 16.The armature unit 10 is translationally movable between the two end points of the total stroke 24. The actuating element 18 has an end stop 48 for the armature element 12. The end stop 48 is arranged on a side 50 of the armature element 12 facing away from a spring element 26. During a movement generated by the actuator magnetic field, the armature element 12 guides the actuating element 18 via contact with the end stop 48 (see also Fig. 5, in which the armature unit 10 is shown deflected by the actuator magnetic field in the direction of a second magnetic core 66 of the coil unit 52). In at least one operating mode of the magnetic actuator 16, the actuating element 18 is provided for transmitting an actuating movement generated by the armature element 12. The actuating movement can be generated by actuating the armature element 12 by means of the actuator magnetic field. The magnetic coils 54, 56 each surround the actuating element 18.The magnetic coils 54, 56 are each wound on coil receptacles 68, 70. The actuator device 14 has a magnetic core unit 36. The magnetic core unit 36 ​​comprises a first magnetic core 38. The first magnetic core 38 is assigned to the first magnetic coil 54. The first magnetic core 38 is partially arranged within a coil center of the first magnetic coil 54. The magnetic core unit 36 ​​comprises a second magnetic core 66. The second magnetic core 66 is assigned to the second magnetic coil 56. The second magnetic core 66 is partially arranged within a coil center of the second magnetic coil 56. The magnetic cores 38, 66 are immovably mounted in the magnetic actuator 16. The actuating element 18 is guided for translational movement in the first magnetic core 38. The actuating element 18 is guided for translational movement in the second magnetic core 66. The actuating element 18 penetrates the two magnetic cores 38, 66.The armature element 12 is designed to be in contact with the first magnetic core 38 or the second magnetic core 66 in a de-energized, idle operating state (shown in Fig. 2a). In the de-energized, idle operating state, the armature element 12 adheres to one of the two magnetic cores 38, 66 via the magnetic holding force 42. The magnetic cores 38, 66 each have stop projections 88, against which the armature element 12 contacts the respective magnetic core 38, 66 in the stable state. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the magnetic core(s) 38, 66 or the armature element 12 to have anti-adhesive elements, which are intended, in particular, to prevent the armature element 12 from magnetically sticking to the magnetic cores 38, 66. Such anti-adhesive elements (not shown) are made of a non-magnetic material and set a certain minimum distance between the armature element 12 and the magnetic core 38, 66 in the end positions / the stable positions.

[0044] The actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another in at least one actuating direction 20 of the actuator device 14. The actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another in such a way that a resistance force against withdrawal of the actuating element 18 in the actuating direction 20 is at least constant or continuously increasing for at least 20% of the total stroke 24 of the armature unit 10. The armature element 12 encompasses the actuating element 18. The actuating element 18 is guided so as to be translationally movable within a recess 72 of the armature element 12.

[0045] The actuator device 14 has the spring element 26. The spring element 26 is designed as a compression spring. The spring element 26 is supported on the armature element 12. The spring element 26 is supported on the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 engages around a section of the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 is arranged completely above the armature element 12 in the actuating direction 20. The actuating element 18 has a support projection 28 for supporting a longitudinal end 30 of the spring element 26. The support projection 28 extends radially relative to a longitudinal direction of the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 strives to return the actuating element 18 to a basic relative position 32 between the armature element 12 and the actuating element 18 when deflected relative to the armature element 12. Figure 2a shows the actuating element 18 and the anchor element 12 in the basic relative position 32. In the basic relative position 32, the spring element 26 is maximally relaxed.The spring element 26 is arranged completely within the first magnetic core 38 in the basic relative position 32. The spring element 26 is supported on the armature element 12 and on the actuating element 18 in such a way that a mutually translational movement of the armature element 12 and the actuating element 18 tensions or relaxes the spring element 26. The illustration in Fig. 2a shows an embodiment in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by pulling on the actuating element 18. A reverse embodiment, in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by pressure, is also conceivable. The illustration in Fig. 2a shows an embodiment in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by being compressed. A reverse embodiment, in which the spring element 26 is tensioned by being pulled apart, is also conceivable. In Figures 2b and 2c, only the armature unit 10 is shown, once with a maximally relaxed spring element 26 (Fig.2b) and once with a spring element 26 tensioned by a relative movement of the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 (Fig. 2c).

[0046] The armature element 12 has a permanent magnet 34. Alternatively or additionally, however, it would also be conceivable for the magnetic core 38, 66 to have a permanent magnet 34' (indicated by dashed lines in Fig. 2a). The spring element 26 is configured to generate a spring force 40 (see Fig. 3) upon actuation, in particular during tensioning, which counteracts the magnetic holding force 42 between the permanent magnet 34, 34' and the magnetic core 38 of the actuator device 14. The spring force 40 of the spring element 26 generated upon deflection of the actuating element 18 relative to a stationary armature element 12 resting against the magnetic core 38 is smaller than the magnetic holding force 42 to at least 20% of a maximum possible relative stroke 44 between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, in particular of the total stroke 24 of the actuating element 18.The spring element 26 is designed such that when the actuating element 18 is deflected relative to the stationary armature element 12 resting against the magnetic core 38, the spring force 40 of the spring element 26 exceeds the magnet holding force 42 at a point of the relative stroke 44 between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, which point is different from a rest relative position 46 (shown in Fig. 2a) between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 and which point is different from the maximum possible relative stroke 44 between the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12. The armature unit 10 has a guide bushing 90. The guide bushing 90 engages around the actuating element 18. The guide bushing 90 is movably mounted along the actuating element 18. The spring element 26 is supported on the guide bushing 90. The armature element 12 is fixedly connected to the guide bushing 90. The permanent magnet 34 is firmly connected to the guide bush 90.The armature element 12 and the permanent magnet 34 are immobile relative to the guide bushing 90. When the actuating element 18 is carried along with the armature element 12, the guide bushing 90 contacts the end stop 48. The guide bushing 90 has a concave taper on an inner side facing the actuating element 18.

[0047] Figure 3 shows an example force-displacement diagram 22 of the magnetic actuator 16. A stroke of the armature unit 10, in particular of the actuating element 18, is plotted in millimeters on an abscissa 74 of the force-displacement diagram 22. A force in Newtons is plotted on an ordinate 76 of the force-displacement diagram 22. A profile of the magnetic holding force 42, in particular of the permanent magnet 34, is plotted in the force-displacement diagram 22. The magnetic holding force 42 decreases rapidly and sharply when the armature unit 10, in particular of the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12, are moved away from the rest position on the magnetic core 38. Therefore, a reclamp function cannot be achieved solely through the magnetic holding force 42. The armature unit 10 comprising the actuating element 18 and the armature element 12 would no longer return to the rest position by itself even at a short distance from the rest position. The force-displacement diagram 22 also shows a curve of the spring force 40.The spring force 40 increases linearly with a deflection of the actuating element 18 relative to the armature element 12. At a point where the spring force 40 exceeds the magnetic holding force 42 of the armature element 12 or where the spring element 26 reaches a block length, the armature element 12 detaches from the magnetic core 38, thus moving away from the rest position, and the spring element 26 relaxes again. Up to this point, however, there is a large stroke range in which the actuating element 18 can be moved with a resistance force corresponding to the spring force 40 without the armature element 12 moving out of the rest position.

[0048] In this range, the spring force 40 would cause the actuating element 18 to reset if, for example, it were released. Beyond this range, automatic reset would no longer occur.

[0049] Figure 4 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating the actuator device 14. Initially, the armature unit 10 is in the rest position shown in Figure 2a. The armature element 12 is fixed to the magnetic core 38 by the magnetic holding force 42. In at least one method step 78, an external tensile force (acting downward in Fig. 2a) is exerted on the actuating element 18. The external tensile force causes the actuating element 18 with the support projection 28 to move relative to the armature element 12 in the direction of the armature element 12, while the armature element 12 remains stationary due to the magnetic holding force 42. In at least one further method step 80, the tensile force compresses and tensions the spring element 26. This generates the spring force 40. The support projection 28 of the actuating element 18 moves towards the armature element 12.If the tensile force is removed in a further method step 82, the actuating element 18 automatically returns to the rest position due to the spring force 40. If, instead, the tensile force is further increased in an alternative method step 84, the spring force 40 exceeds the magnetic holding force 42 or the spring element 26 blocks, so that the magnetic adhesion of the armature element 12 to the magnetic core 38 is released and the entire armature unit 10 moves in the direction of the tensile force. This movement is limited by the size of a displacement space between the magnetic cores 38, 66. During the movement of the armature unit 10, the spring element 26 relaxes, and the armature element 12 and the actuating element 18 again assume the rest position 46 relative to one another.If, instead, in a method step 86 alternative to method step 80, the actuator magnetic field is activated via the coil unit 52, the armature element 12 is deflected from the rest position by the actuator magnetic field. The armature element 12 moves toward the opposite magnetic core 66 and, in doing so, guides the actuating element 18 via contact with the end stop 48 of the actuating element 18.

[0050] Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the magnetic actuator 16 with the actuator device 14 and with the armature unit 10 in a state deflected by the actuator magnetic field of the magnetic actuator 16. In Figure 5, the armature unit 10 is in a second stable position of the bistable magnetic actuator 16, which is different from the first stable position. Reference numerals

[0051] 10 anchor unit

[0052] 12 anchor element

[0053] 14 Actuator device

[0054] 16 magnetic actuator

[0055] 18 Control element

[0056] 20 Setting direction

[0057] 22 Force-displacement diagram

[0058] 24 total stroke

[0059] 26 spring element

[0060] 28 Support projection

[0061] 30 Longitudinal end

[0062] 32 Basic relative position

[0063] 34 permanent magnet

[0064] 36 Magnetic core unit

[0065] 38 magnetic core

[0066] 40 spring force

[0067] 42 magnetic holding force

[0068] 44 Maximum possible relative stroke

[0069] 46 Resting relative position

[0070] 48 End stop

[0071] 50 pages

[0072] 52 coil unit

[0073] 54 Solenoid coil

[0074] 56 solenoid coil

[0075] 58 page

[0076] 60 force

[0077] 62 housings

[0078] 64 Force

[0079] 66 Magnetic core coil holder

[0080] Coil holder recess abscissa

[0081] ordinate

[0082] Process step

[0083] Process step

[0084] Process step

[0085] Process step

[0086] Process step

[0087] Stop projection guide bushing

Claims

Claims 1. Actuator device (14), in particular a magnetic actuator device, with an armature unit (10), comprising at least one armature element (12) which is mounted at least so as to be linearly movable and which is provided at least for interaction with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator (16) having the actuator device (14), and comprising at least one actuating element (18) which is mounted at least so as to be linearly movable, in particular rod-like, and which is preferably provided in at least one operating mode for transmitting an actuating movement generated by the armature element (12), characterized in that the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another, in particular in at least one actuating direction (20) of the actuator device (14).

2. Actuator device (14) according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another in such a way that a resistance force against pulling out or pushing out of the actuating element (18) in the actuating direction (20) is at least constant or continuously increasing, preferably at least substantially linearly continuously increasing, for at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40% and particularly preferably at least 50% of a total stroke (24) of the armature unit (10).

3. Actuator device (14) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a spring element (26) which is supported on the anchor element (12) and on the actuating element (18).

4. Actuator device (14) according to claim 3, characterized in that the actuating element (18) has at least one radially extending support projection (28) for supporting a longitudinal end (30) of the spring element (26).

5. Actuator device (14) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the spring element (26) strives to return the actuating element (18) to a basic relative position (32) between the anchor element (12) and the actuating element (18) in the event of a deflection relative to the anchor element (12).

6. Actuator device (14) according to claim 5, characterized in that the spring element (26) is supported on the anchor element (12) and on the actuating element (18) in such a way that a mutually translational movement of the anchor element (12) and the actuating element (18) produces a tensioning or a relaxing of the spring element (26).

7. Actuator device (14) according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the spring element (26) encompasses at least a portion of the actuating element (18).

8. Actuator device (14) according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the spring element (26) is arranged at least to a large extent, preferably completely, above or below the anchor element (12) in the actuating direction (20).

9. Actuator device (14) according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the spring element (26) is designed as a tension spring or as a compression spring.

10. Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the armature element (12) has a permanent magnet (34).

11. Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a magnetic core unit (36) with at least one immovably mounted magnetic core (38) which has a permanent magnet (34').

12. Actuator device (14) according to claim 3 and according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the spring element (26) is designed to generate a spring force (40) upon actuation, in particular upon tensioning, which counteracts a magnetic holding force (42) between the permanent magnet (34, 34') and a magnetic core (38) of the actuator device (14).

13. Actuator device (14) according to claim 12, characterized in that the spring force (40) of the spring element (26) generated when the actuating element (18) is deflected relative to a stationary armature element (12), in particular one resting against a magnetic core (38) of the actuator device (14), is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40% and particularly preferably at least 50% of a maximum possible relative stroke (44) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12), in particular a total stroke of the actuating element (18), smaller than the magnet holding force (42).

14. Actuator device (14) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the spring element (26) is designed such that when the actuating element (18) is deflected relative to the stationary armature element (12), in particular one resting against a magnetic core (38) of the actuator device (14), a spring force (40) of the spring element (26) at a point of the relative stroke (44) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12), which is different from a rest relative position (46) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) and which is different from the maximum possible relative stroke (44) between the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12), exceeds the magnetic holding force (42).

15. Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (18) has an end stop (48) for the anchor element (12), which is arranged on a side (50) of the anchor element (12) facing away from the spring element (26).

16. Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a coil unit (52) at least for generating the actuator magnetic field.

17. Actuator device (14) according to claim 16, characterized in that the coil unit (52) has at least two magnetic coils (54, 56), which are each arranged on different, in particular mutually facing, sides (50, 58) of the armature element (12).

18. Actuator device (14) according to claim 17, characterized in that the two magnetic coils (54, 56) are separately controllable, in particular energizable, contacted.

19. Actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one magnetic core unit (36), wherein the actuating element (18) is guided in at least one magnetic core (38) of the magnetic core unit (36) in a translationally movable manner and / or wherein the armature element (12) in a, in particular currentless, resting operating state rests in contact with a magnetic core (38) of the magnetic core unit (36).

20. Magnetic actuator (16), in particular an electromagnet, preferably for an electromechanical brake and / or an electromechanical clutch, with an actuator device (14) according to one of the preceding claims.

21. Method for operating an actuator device (14), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 19, with an armature unit (10), comprising at least one armature element (12) which is mounted at least linearly movable and which interacts with at least one actuator magnetic field of a magnetic actuator (16) having the actuator device (14), and comprising at least one actuating element (18) which is mounted at least linearly movable, in particular rod-like, and which preferably transmits an actuating movement generated by the armature element (12) in at least one operating mode, characterized in that the actuating element (18) and the armature element (12) are mounted so as to be translationally movable relative to one another, in particular in at least one actuating direction (20) of the actuator device (14).

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