Device for producing haptic feedback

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a production method for producing haptic feedback, the device comprising two components which are movable relative to one another and an actuator component (1) which can be installed and which is fixed between the two components (20, 30), wherein the actuator component (1) has a piezoelectric actuator (2) which is mechanically coupled to the two components, has a mechanical reinforcing element (3), the mechanical reinforcing element (3) being fastened to the piezoelectric actuator (2), and has an interface element (4).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Device for generating haptic feedback

[0003] The invention relates to a device with a manufacturing method for generating haptic feedback.

[0004] Piezoelectric actuators arranged between two rigid elements, wherein the actuator changes its extension in a first direction when an electrical voltage is applied and the rigid elements deform due to the extension of the actuator such that an active surface is moved relative to the element in a second direction substantially perpendicular or parallel to the first direction, are described, for example, in the document WO 2018 046 201 A1.

[0005] The functionality and performance in such an application depend primarily on the assembly of these actuators. The large tolerances of the piezoelectric actuators and the rigid elements pose a particular challenge. Furthermore, assembly can not only result in significant performance fluctuations but also in actuator damage.

[0006] In typical applications, such powerful actuators are used to drive haptic displays, e.g., in the automotive industry or in industrial applications. These are typically quite heavy devices. The haptics are therefore usually generated by the relative acceleration of a lightweight display against its heavy base module, with the haptic-generating element in between. Therefore, good mechanical attachment, coupling, and durability between display, haptic element, and base module are key to functionality. Furthermore, ease of manufacturing is a major advantage.

[0007] A simple relative alignment and a basic operating principle of a corresponding device are also shown in the document WO 2019 193 006 A1, including a basic fastening by unspecified fastening means.

[0008] A more detailed example of such a system can also be found in the document DE 2020 20 100 265 Ul , which shows screw fastenings between the display, a haptic element and a base.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to improve the prior art.

[0010] The invention relates to a device for generating haptic feedback.

[0011] The invention particularly relates to a device for generating haptic feedback comprising a piezoelectric actuator and an interface element.

[0012] The interface element is preferably rigid.

[0013] Elements secured to one another are preferably secured to one another by means of fixing means such as screws or adhesives. The interface element itself is preferably not such a fixing means. In one embodiment, the device comprises a mechanical reinforcement element, wherein the mechanical reinforcement element is secured to the piezoelectric actuator.

[0014] In one embodiment, the device comprises two components which are movable relative to one another, and wherein the actuator or an actuator component comprising the actuator is fixed with the mechanical reinforcement element between the two components.

[0015] In one embodiment, the actuator component is mechanically coupled to the two components.

[0016] The described features and components can be designed and combined as in the following embodiments.

[0017] The present invention is further characterized by the claims.

[0018] The subordinate claims explain embodiments of the invention.

[0019] The device comprises two components that are movable relative to one another. Preferably, one component is rigid and another component is movable relative to the rigid component. The device may contain further components in addition to the two components.

[0020] The device further comprises an installable actuator component that is fixed between the two components. Preferably, the actuator component generates haptic feedback by having an included piezoelectric actuator generate a mechanical movement in response to an electrical signal. The actuator component is preferably designed such that the movement is then preferably amplified and transmitted to the movable component, so that the movable component moves relative to the rigid component and provides haptic feedback.

[0021] Preferably, the actuator component is attached between the two components to both the rigid and the movable component.

[0022] The actuator component according to the invention comprises a piezoelectric actuator which is mechanically coupled, preferably indirectly, to the two components, a mechanical reinforcement element, wherein the mechanical reinforcement element is fastened to the piezoelectric actuator, and an interface element, by means of which the mechanical reinforcement element is preferably mechanically connected to one of the components, in that the interface element is preferably fixed to the reinforcement element and to the component.

[0023] Elements that are attached or fixed to one another ("attached" and "attached" are synonymous here) are preferably secured to one another by means of fixing devices such as screws or adhesives. The interface element itself is preferably not such a fixing device.

[0024] The piezoelectric actuator is preferably designed as an approximately cuboid-shaped element, which preferably comprises electrodes and piezoelectrically active layers, e.g., ceramic layers. The actuator can be manufactured using multilayer technology. The actuator is electrically contacted to the outside. When an electrical voltage is applied during operation, the actuator contracts or expands predominantly in the x-direction.

[0025] Contact is preferably made via the electrodes of the actuator, in particular via external electrodes that are exposed on the outside of the actuator.

[0026] In addition, the actuator can also comprise internal electrodes that are arranged between the ceramic layers and are electrically contacted to the outside by the external electrodes.

[0027] The electrical connection of the actuator, in particular the external electrodes of the actuator, is made in embodiments via a cable or via a so-called flexible printed circuit board (FPC: "flexible printed circuit").

[0028] The electrical connection is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures.

[0029] The mechanical reinforcement element is preferably designed and arranged such that, as a result of a change in the extension of the piezoelectric actuator in a first direction x, it deforms such that a central partial area - or contact area - of the mechanical reinforcement element is moved relative to the piezoelectric actuator in a second direction y, which is perpendicular to the first direction x, and as a result a force is exerted in the y-direction.

[0030] The reinforcing element preferably comprises side regions which bear against and are fastened to a side of the actuator which points in the y-direction. Two side regions of the reinforcing element preferably lie close to the two ends of the side of the actuator which points in the y-direction. A central partial region of the reinforcing element is preferably formed between them and is connected to the two side regions, for example via two joints in each case and a transition region in each case in between. The partial region is preferably flat and parallel to the side of the actuator which points in the y-direction.

[0031] If the two side areas are pushed together or apart by an extension or compression of the actuator in the x-direction, the central sub-areas move preferentially in a y-direction away from the actuator (pushed together) or towards the actuator (pushed apart).

[0032] A force in the y-direction is thus preferably exerted by the reinforcing element on one of the components via the interface element.

[0033] A reinforcing element can also be attached to a second side of the actuator, which is opposite the side pointing in the y-direction, so that the reinforcing effect is doubled. The second reinforcing element can also be coupled to the second component via a second interface element. However, one of the reinforcing elements can also be coupled directly to one of the components without an additional interface element, e.g. by direct screwing. The interface element is preferably designed to offer a fit tolerance or tolerance compensation in at least one spatial direction when fixed to the component during installation of the actuator component. This simplifies the installation and manufacture of the actuator component and of the entire device.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element is a flat molded part which preferably extends flatly into the xy plane and which preferably comprises a material which is as flexible as possible and which is also as stiff as possible.

[0035] For example, the interface element comprises a metal such as aluminum or stainless steel. Alternatively, particularly if an electrically insulating material is desired, the interface element can comprise a plastic. The plastic can preferably be fiber-reinforced. For example, the plastic can be nylon and reinforced with glass fibers. Such a material also serves for electromagnetic shielding or electrical insulation or electrical decoupling. Furthermore, it can also serve to provide thermal and / or acoustic insulation / shielding / decoupling. The formation of a local element between the interface element and adjacent components is thus also avoided.

[0036] The molded part is, for example, milled, printed or cut and bent from a sheet metal.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element is bendable in a third direction z, perpendicular to the first direction x and the second direction y, and thus offers a fitting tolerance or tolerance compensation in at least the third direction z during fixation.

[0038] Preferably, the interface element has a sufficiently high degree of flexibility and ductility that it can be bent in the z-direction to such an extent that the actuator component can be installed in the device. Preferably, at least one bend in the z-direction of up to 0.5 mm is possible.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element has a groove for this purpose, which facilitates bending of the interface element. The remaining interface element can then be made thicker than at the location of the groove in order to achieve sufficiently high rigidity. The bending length and thus the maximum bending in the Z direction depends on the distance of the groove from the reinforcing element.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element is a flexibly bendable sheet metal. A groove is then not absolutely necessary. However, the material should still have sufficient rigidity. For example, a thin stainless steel sheet can be used. The thickness of such a stainless steel sheet is preferably between 0.3 mm and 1 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 0.6 mm.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element is fixed to the component by means of at least one screw, wherein the interface element has an elongated hole for receiving the screw, wherein the elongated hole offers a fitting tolerance or tolerance compensation in at least the first direction x or the second direction y or in both directions x and y during the fixing.

[0042] To ensure symmetrical force transmission, at least two symmetrically arranged slots and screws are preferably provided. The slot has a larger dimension than the screw, so that the screw can be placed in the slot with a tolerance. The larger dimension can extend only in the x-direction, only in the y-direction, or in both directions.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element has a fastening region that lies flat against the contact region of the mechanical reinforcement element and is fastened thereto. While a main region of the interface element is flat in the xy plane, the fastening region, like the contact region, is flat in the xz plane. The fastening region is preferably bent or milled accordingly.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the fastening area is glued to the contact area. When the fastening area and the contact area are glued together, rigidity increases and force transmission is improved. To increase rigidity, the largest possible adhesive contact surface and the thinnest possible adhesive layer are desirable. To increase flexibility, a thicker, flexible adhesive layer may be advantageous.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the invention, the

[0046] Fastening area bent around the contact area, e.g. in a U-shape, in order to provide a large contact surface, for example an adhesive contact surface.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the fastening area is connected to the contact area by at least one of screwing, riveting, clamping, and plugging. The combination of several fastening methods increases the strength and rigidity of the connection and thus the service life, stability, and quality of the power transmission.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element and the mechanical reinforcement element are designed as a single component. This reduces assembly effort and improves force transmission.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, the mechanical reinforcement element is designed as a region bent perpendicular to the interface element. The reinforcement element thus corresponds to the fastening region in a two-part embodiment. The bend in the interface element increases the rigidity of the component.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the invention, the mechanical reinforcement element has bending edges on one or more sides that stiffen the reinforcement element. In particular, in addition to the bend toward the interface element, further bends can be provided on other edges solely to increase stiffness.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the invention, the

[0052] The actuator component has a spring part that acts as a spring. The spring part is designed such that, by compressing the spring part, the actuator component can be positioned between the two components with a fitting tolerance in at least the second direction y, and such that, after the actuator component has been positioned between the two components and before fixing, the spring part preloads the piezoelectric actuator to a desired extent.

[0053] Thus, on the one hand, tolerance during installation of the actuator component is increased, since the actuator component does not have to have exactly the dimensions of a recess or gap provided for this purpose in the device between the two components, but can, for example, be made somewhat larger so that the spring part is compressed.

[0054] On the other hand, the spring stiffness of the spring component can preferably be selected so that the actuator is automatically preloaded to a desired degree during installation. A stiffness of a maximum of 10 N / mm is preferably selected, resulting in a preload of preferably 3 N / mm to a maximum of 10 N / mm.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the invention, the spring part is designed such that the actuator component is fixed in its position after positioning between the two components and before fixing by the spring part.

[0056] In particular, the actuator component is held in place by the applied preload and thus does not shift during fastening, for example, using screws or adhesive. This simplifies installation. After fastening, preloading by the spring part is no longer necessary; the fastening point then serves to transmit force to the component to which it was fastened.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the spring part is designed such that, by compressing the spring part, the actuator component can be positioned between the two components with a fit tolerance in at least the y-direction, and such that, after positioning the actuator component between the two components and before fixing, the spring part preloads the piezoelectric actuator to a desired degree. Alternatively, the spring part can also offer a fit tolerance in the x-direction or in both the x-direction and the y-direction.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, the spring portion is formed integrally with the interface element as a part of the interface element. For example, a spring structure is cut or milled into the end of the interface element that abuts the component and not the reinforcement element.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the invention, the spring part is a separate component from the interface element, which is arranged between the interface element and the component. Such a spring part can be used flexibly and, if desired, removed and reused after the actuator component has been installed in the device.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the invention, two symmetrically arranged spring parts are arranged or formed on the interface element of the actuator component in order to ensure a symmetrical and uniform force transmission.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element has recesses to reduce material requirements. For example, the area between the fastening area, the elongated holes, and the optional spring part can be largely recessed to reduce material requirements.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element rests flat on the component. A large contact area improves rigidity and force transmission but reduces the flexibility and bendability of the interface element.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element is fixed to the component by gluing or screwing.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element has a structure with regularly arranged honeycomb-shaped recesses to facilitate bonding. The honeycomb structure

[0065] The contact area available for bonding is increased and the irradiation of the adhesive with UV light for curing is made easier.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element has centering aids which are designed to facilitate precise positioning of the interface element on the component or to specify the exact position in at least one spatial direction.

[0067] In particular, the centering aids are intended to facilitate positioning on component surfaces whose surface area is adapted to the flat interface element. Thus, the centering aids can help to align the surfaces as evenly as possible.

[0068] In particular, if the surfaces have approximately the same extent in the x-direction, a centering aid can be a bending edge or strip along the y-direction or another limitation of the interface element in the x-direction.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the invention, the centering aids are bending edges which are designed to specify an exact positioning of the interface element in at least the first direction x.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the bending edges are designed in such a way that they allow a fitting tolerance when positioning the interface element, i.e., they are bent obliquely outwards.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element and the mechanical reinforcement element are made of the same material.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the interface element, which consists of an electrically insulating material, also has electromagnetic shielding properties. According to one embodiment of the invention, the mechanical reinforcement element or the interface element formed integrally with the mechanical reinforcement element has a damping part for damping movements of the mechanical reinforcement element toward the piezoelectric actuator.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the damping part is preferably designed as a mechanical spring which is positioned between the mechanical reinforcement element and the piezoelectric actuator.

[0074] The damping part is preferably designed as a single piece, forming part of the interface element, and can, for example, consist of a flexible bend in the sheet metal or a more sophisticated spring structure. The interface element can, in particular, also be bent around the damping element.

[0075] A task of the damping element is preferably to further limit the path between the actuator and the reinforcing element, and preferably also to distribute the forces evenly over the actuator even in the case of high forces, e.g. due to improper loading, and to reduce the stress on the fastenings between the reinforcing element and the actuator.

[0076] The damping element preferably also prevents direct contact of the reinforcement element with the actuator, e.g., due to improper handling of the device. It is not necessarily intended to prevent contact as such. However, it should at least enable targeted contact.

[0077] - within a predefined force / displacement range - which avoids destruction or permanent deformation of the actuator or the amplifier element.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the invention, a motion, force or pressure sensor for measuring the deflection of the mechanical reinforcement element is positioned between the mechanical reinforcement element and the piezoelectric actuator.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the invention, the sensor is a capacitive sensor comprising a first conductor which is part of the mechanical amplification element and a second conductor which is part of the piezoelectric actuator.

[0080] Such a simple design can be integrated without additional equipment.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the invention, the component has a positioning aid which is suitable for determining the position of the interface element on the component, preferably with a play tolerance.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the invention, the positioning aid is suitable for fixing the interface element in its position after positioning and before fixing, i.e. during assembly of the device.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the invention, the positioning aid is preferably designed as a pin or a stud, and the interface element has a suitable recess into which the positioning aid can be inserted. According to one embodiment of the invention, the positioning aid is particularly also suitable for determining the position of the two components, i.e., the rigid and the movable component, relative to one another and preferably additionally for limiting a movement path of the components relative to one another and to the actuator in order to protect the actuator from excessive external forces.

[0084] The positioning aids can therefore simultaneously serve as travel limiting elements and stop elements with regard to the components and the actuator with reinforcement element.

[0085] According to one embodiment of the invention, the actuator component further comprises a second mechanical reinforcement element which is attached to the piezoelectric actuator, wherein the piezoelectric actuator is arranged between the first and the second mechanical reinforcement element.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the actuator component also has a second interface element, by means of which the second mechanical reinforcement element is mechanically connected to the respective other component than the first interface element, in that the second interface element is fixed to the second reinforcement element and to the component, wherein the second interface element is designed to offer a fitting tolerance in at least one spatial direction when fixed to the component during installation of the actuator component, and wherein the second mechanical reinforcement element is in turn designed and arranged to deform as a result of a change in an extension of the piezoelectric actuator in the first direction such that a contact area of ​​the second mechanical reinforcement element is moved relative to the piezoelectric actuator in the second direction,and thereby a force is exerted on the component via the second interface element.,

[0087] In other words, the actuator component can have two reinforcement elements and two interface elements according to the previous embodiments. The two reinforcement elements and interface elements can each be identical or different. One of the interface elements establishes the connection to the rigid component, and one of the interface elements establishes the connection to the movable component.

[0088] All of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined as desired.

[0089] The invention further relates to a method for assembling the device according to any of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the actuator component is positioned between the two components which are movable relative to one another and is fixed between the two components by means of the interface element.

[0090] A separate spring part, which is not formed integrally with the interface element, can be used as an aid during the positioning process of the actuator component between the two components and can be removed again after the actuator component has been fixed. The invention is explained below with reference to figures. The invention is not restricted to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. The precise features shown in the various figures can be combined as desired and are not restricted to the combinations shown in the figures. Dimensions and size ratios do not have to be shown to scale.

[0091] The figures show:

[0092] Figure 1: shows a first embodiment of the actuator component in perspective view on the left and in cross section on the right.

[0093] Figure 2 : shows various designs with elongated holes.

[0094] Figure 3: shows a further embodiment of the actuator component in perspective view.

[0095] Figure 4 : shows an embodiment with rivets from the perspective and in cross section.

[0096] Figure 5 : shows an embodiment with clamping from the perspective and in cross section.

[0097] Figure 6 : shows an embodiment with glued sheet metal from the perspective and in cross section.

[0098] Figure 7: shows an embodiment with a one-piece reinforcement and interface element in perspective and in cross-section. Figure 8: shows an embodiment with a one-piece reinforcement and interface element and additional

[0099] Bending edge in perspective and cross section.

[0100] Figure 9: shows five different designs with spring parts.

[0101] Figure 10: shows an embodiment with a separate spring part.

[0102] Figure 11: shows the installation of the actuator component in the device.

[0103] Figure 12: shows the installation of the actuator component in the fixture with positioning aids. Cylindrical pins are shown as an example of positioning aids.

[0104] The positioning aids also serve to limit the travel between the movable and rigid components. The travel is preferably limited to a range of 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0105] Figure 13: shows the installation of the actuator component in the device with centering aids and the actuator component with centering aids.

[0106] Figure 14: shows a sectional view of the actuator component with damping elements. Additional functions of the damping element shown include limiting the movement of the reinforcement elements and evenly distributing forces caused by improper loading, such as heavy support on the moving component, such as a display. Forces of up to 500 N can thus be dampened and distributed during operation.

[0107] Figure 15: shows one-piece embodiments in which interface element, reinforcement element, spring part and damping part are combined.

[0108] Figure 16: shows another one-piece embodiment.

[0109] Figure 17: shows another one-piece embodiment.

[0110] Figure 18: shows another one-piece embodiment.

[0111] Figure 19: shows another one-piece design from different perspectives.

[0112] Figures 20 and 21: show embodiments of the electrical contacting of the piezoelectric actuator, in particular via an FPC (Figure 20) or cable (Figure 21).

[0113] Figures 22 and 23 show embodiments with additional stiffening connecting elements at the transition between the reinforcement elements and the interface elements.

[0114] Figures 24 and 25 show embodiments in which the reinforcement elements and the interface elements are joined by a material bond such as gluing or welding. Figure 25 shows a half-section of the embodiment of Figure 24.

[0115] The first embodiment of the actuator component 1 according to the invention shown in Figure 1 comprises a piezoelectric actuator 2 and two mechanical elements applied to opposite surfaces of the piezoelectric actuator 2.

[0116] Reinforcing elements 3 .

[0117] The actuator component 1 is intended for installation between two components of a device, one of which is rigid and one of which is movable. The actuator component 1 can, in particular, cause the movable component to move relative to the rigid component.

[0118] For this purpose, the actuator component 1 is mounted between the rigid component and the movable component, providing a mechanical attachment to two components. To facilitate installation, it is helpful, as shown in the examples, if installation is possible with fitting tolerances.

[0119] Side regions 3A of the mechanical reinforcement elements 3 are each attached to the piezoelectric actuator 2, for example by gluing. A central partial region 3B of the mechanical reinforcement elements 3 is connected to the side regions 3A of the reinforcement elements 3 via joints.

[0120] The mechanical reinforcement elements 3 are designed such that when the piezoelectric actuator 2 contracts in a first direction x due to an electrical voltage and the two side regions 3A move towards each other in the direction x, the partial regions 3 move away from the piezoelectric actuator 2 in a second direction y, which is perpendicular to the direction x.

[0121] The piezoelectric actuator 2 comprises or consists of a piezoelectrically active material, such as a ceramic. The mechanical reinforcement elements 3 are designed as brackets, i.e., they have a bracket shape that includes the side regions 3A and the central partial region 3B.

[0122] The mechanical reinforcement elements 3 comprise, for example, a metal with high rigidity. Alternatively, the reinforcement elements 3 can also comprise or consist of an electrically insulating and / or electromagnetically shielding material. A suitable material for this purpose is, for example, a plastic, in particular a fiber-reinforced plastic such as glass-fiber-reinforced nylon.

[0123] The interface elements 4 are attached to the reinforcement elements 3. The interface elements 4 in the present embodiment are, for example, molded parts milled from an aluminum block. The molded parts essentially have a plate shape. The molded parts designed as plates are sufficiently thick that the interface elements 4 have the necessary rigidity to transmit a force from the reinforcement elements 3 to the other components of the device according to the invention.

[0124] The actuator component is attached to the other components of the device via the interface elements 4.

[0125] The force is transmitted from the reinforcing elements 3 to the other components of the device according to the invention, of which one component is preferably rigid and one component is movable relative to the rigid component, via the interface elements 4. For this purpose, the interface elements 4 are fastened on the one hand to the reinforcing elements 3 and on the other hand to the other components, for example to the rigid component and / or the movable component.

[0126] One of the interface elements 4 is attached to the rigid component. The other of the interface elements 4 is attached to the movable component. Alternatively, only one of the reinforcement elements 3 can be connected to another component via an interface element 4. The other of the reinforcement elements 3 can, for example, also be connected directly to another component.

[0127] The interface elements 4 are, for example, screwed to the other components. For this purpose, the interface elements 4 in the example have a certain number, for example two, of elongated holes 5. The elongated holes 5 ensure a fit tolerance in the second direction y when screwing. Alternatively, the elongated holes can also be designed differently, for example so that they offer a fit tolerance in the first direction x or in the direction x and in the direction y, as the further illustrations in Figure 2 show. For example, the different elongated holes can also point in different directions or have a cross shape.

[0128] Alternatively, the interface elements 4 can also be glued to the other components, for example. For this purpose, the interface elements 4 preferably have honeycomb-shaped recesses which increase the available adhesive surface and enable the adhesive to harden using UV radiation, as shown, for example, in Figure 3. In the present example, the interface elements 4 are glued to the moving sub-regions 3B of the reinforcing elements 3. For this purpose, a fastening region 4A of the interface element 4, which is fastened adjacent to the central sub-region 3A, has a U-shape. Due to the U-shape, the fastening region 4A can rest against the central sub-region 3B from three sides.

[0129] While the interface elements 4 are substantially flat in the x-direction and the y-direction, the contact areas of the reinforcement elements 3 and the fastening areas 4A are substantially flat in the x-direction and the z-direction, which are perpendicular to the x-direction and the y-direction. The piezoelectric actuator 2 is also flat along the x-direction and the z-direction and executes a movement in the x-direction.

[0130] The partial area 3B therefore corresponds to a contact area. The partial area 3B, also referred to as the contact area 3B, is thus additionally stiffened, which further improves the force transmission from the reinforcement element 3 to the interface element 4.

[0131] As an alternative to the U-shape, the interface element 4 in the fastening area 4A can also have another suitable shape.

[0132] As an alternative to gluing, the fastening region 4A can also be fastened to the abutment region 3B in other ways. For example, the fastening region 4A is riveted to the abutment region 3B, as shown in Figure 4, wherein the fastening region 4A has rivets, or the abutment region 3B is clamped between locking elements of the fastening region 4A, as shown in Figure 5, wherein the fastening region 4A has a C-shape.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, a plug connection, which is also shown in Figure 5, can also be present to additionally fix the elements to one another, wherein the fastening area 4A has pins or bolts.

[0134] The interface element 4 preferably has a bendability or flexibility in a third direction z, which is perpendicular to the first and second directions x and y, respectively.

[0135] In the example, the interface element 4 is a planar element, with the surface extending in the x- and y-direction.

[0136] Flexibility in the z-direction can be achieved, for example, by a groove in the molded part that runs in the y-direction. The groove is designated by reference numeral 6 in the figures.

[0137] Alternatively, the molded part can also be designed as a thin sheet metal, as shown in Figure 6, which has sufficiently high rigidity and, at the same time, sufficiently high flexibility in the z-direction. Due to the flexibility in the z-direction, the interface element 4 enables a fit tolerance in the z-direction when the actuator component 1 is installed in the device with the other components. The flexibility in the z-direction enables, in particular, tolerance compensation in this direction, preferably up to 0.5 mm. This is possible if, for example, the movable and the rigid components have different heights in the z-direction, e.g. due to manufacturing tolerances. For this purpose, the sheet metal preferably has a thickness of between 0.4 mm and 0.7 mm. The sheet metal is made of stainless steel, for example.

[0138] In general, manufacturing can be simplified and operational reliability can be increased by manufacturing the reinforcement element 3 and the interface element 4 from the same material. This avoids, for example, the occurrence of a local element (galvanic element) between the two elements.

[0139] The interface element can also be made of any other suitable material. Aluminum increases flexibility, while stainless steel increases rigidity. A plastic material such as nylon, reinforced with fibers such as glass fibers, provides electrical insulation and electromagnetic shielding while maintaining sufficient flexibility and rigidity.

[0140] In one embodiment, shown in Figure 7, the reinforcement element 3 and the interface element 4 can be formed as a single piece. For example, a sheet metal, as described for the interface element 4 in the previous embodiments, can be bent accordingly to function both as the interface element 4 in the xy plane and as the reinforcement element 3 in the xz plane.

[0141] Essentially, the fastening region 4A of the previous embodiments here becomes the central partial region 3B of the reinforcing element 3. Furthermore, the side regions 3A for fastening to the piezoelectric actuator 2 are also formed in the sheet metal. The bend 3C between the region of the sheet metal that functions as the interface element 4 and the region of the sheet metal that functions as the reinforcing element 3 ensures the necessary rigidity. In addition, the second edge of the partial region 3B in the y-direction, which lies opposite the bending edge 3C, can also be bent over to further increase the rigidity and form a further bending edge 3D, as shown in Figure 8.

[0142] To simplify the installation of the actuator component 1 into the device, the actuator component 1 can further comprise a spring part 7 that functions as a spring. The spring part 7 can be designed as part of the interface element 4.

[0143] In particular, a corresponding spring structure can be milled into the material of the interface element 4 or cut out of a sheet of the interface element 4, for example by laser cutting.

[0144] The spring part 7 can be produced, in particular, by cutting corresponding recesses into the interface element 4. Various embodiments are shown in Figure 9. In particular, a symmetrical design of the spring part is helpful in ensuring symmetrical force transmission.

[0145] When inserted into a recess provided for this purpose in the device, in particular into a gap between the two components of the device, the spring part 7 allows for a tolerance in the positioning of the actuator component 1. Thus, the recess does not have to have exactly the same dimensions as the actuator component 1, but can, for example, also be smaller, so that the spring part 7 is compressed accordingly.

[0146] Furthermore, the spring part 7 also functions functionally as a preload element, which preloads the actuator component 1, and in particular the piezoelectric actuator 2, with a desired preload during installation in the device or the recess of the device or the gap between two components. In the embodiments shown, the desired preload is between 3 and 10 Newton / millimeter (N / mm). To ensure this, the spring part 7 preferably has a maximum spring stiffness of 10 N / mm.

[0147] In the following Figure 10, an alternative embodiment is shown in which the spring part 7 is not designed as a part of the interface element 4, but as a separate component, namely in the example shown as a spiral spring 7.

[0148] The advantage of the separate design of the spring part 7 is that the spring part 7 can be removed again after assembly, as soon as the interface element 4 is connected to the components, for example by gluing or screwing, and can be used again in the next assembly process.

[0149] The advantage of a one-piece spring part 7 with the interface element 4 (in other words: spring part 7 and interface element are manufactured in one piece) is that fewer components are required when assembling the device and assembly is easier. The spring part 7 is not primarily used to transmit force during operation of the device, but preferably only to determine the position and to set a preload during assembly of the actuator component 1. As soon as the actuator component 1 is fixed to the components of the device via the interface elements 4, which is done for example by gluing or screwing, the force is preferably transmitted via the fixed point, i.e. via the screws or via the adhesive layer.

[0150] In the example shown, a spring part 7 is provided only between the rigid component and the corresponding interface element 4. No spring part 7 is provided between the other interface element and the movable component.

[0151] In other embodiments, corresponding interface elements 4 and spring parts 7 can be provided on both sides between two components.

[0152] Figure 11 shows from different views how the actuator component 1 is inserted between the movable component 30 and the rigid component 20.

[0153] A first interface element 34 rests on a surface of the movable component 30 and a second interface element 24 rests on a surface of the rigid component 20. The two interface elements 24 and 34 are each connected to the corresponding components 20 and 30 by screws and fixed to one another. The movable component 30 is movable relative to the rigid component 20. For example, the movable component 30 is mounted on the rigid component 20 in a movable manner, e.g. resiliently. The movable component 30 is, for example, a screen, while the rigid component 20 is the housing of a computer, tablet or screen with haptic feedback.

[0154] Figure 12 shows a further embodiment in which the components 20 and 30 have positioning aids 8, which allow the actuator component 21 to be easily plugged onto one another and positioned on the two components 30 and 20. The positioning aids 8 can also simultaneously serve to determine the mutual positioning and / or movement / path limitation of the movable and rigid components 20 and 30. The positioning aids 11 are, in particular, pins 11 or studs 11, which are guided through recesses or holes provided for this purpose in the interface elements 4.

[0155] Figure 13 shows embodiments in which the interface elements 4 have additional centering aids 9 so that the interface elements 4 can be positioned as straight as possible on the surfaces of the components 20 and 30 provided for them in the desired position.

[0156] The centering aids 9 are, for example, additional bending edges or strips along the edges of the interface elements 4 along the y-direction, which determine the position of the interface element 4 on the component surface of the rigid component 20 or the movable component 30. The centering aids 9 are preferably designed such that they do not unnecessarily restrict the degrees of freedom when assembling the device. For example, the centering aids 9 are designed as bending edges, although the bending angle is preferably not 90° (° stands for degrees), but rather 135°, for example, so that a certain amount of play is permitted when positioning / fixing the actuator component 1 and in particular the interface elements 2, but a centered positioning of the interface elements 2 is ensured at least in the x-direction.

[0157] The centering aids 9 are preferably formed directly as partial areas in the interface element 4.

[0158] The centering aids 9 are particularly advantageous when the surface areas 31 and 21 of the components 20 and 30 are dimensioned such that they have the same dimensions in the x-direction as the interface elements 4, taking into account a usual tolerance.

[0159] In each of the embodiments, force or pressure sensors can also be positioned between the piezoelectric actuator 2 and the mechanical reinforcement element 3.

[0160] For example, the reinforcement elements 3 and the actuator 2 can each comprise conductive layers between which a capacitor element is formed, so that a pressure or a movement of the mechanical amplifier element 3 towards the piezoelectric actuator 2 can be detected via the change in capacitance between the conductive layers. Furthermore, the interface elements 4 or the reinforcement elements 3 or the one-piece reinforcement element 3 with interface element 4 can comprise a damping part 11 which dampens a movement of the reinforcement element 3 in the direction of the piezoelectric actuator 2, in particular unintentionally strong movements. In this way, damage to or wear of the piezoelectric actuator 2, for example due to impacts from the mechanical reinforcement element 3, can be prevented or avoided.

[0161] The damping part 11 can, for example, be designed as a resilient region in the mechanical reinforcement element 3 or in the interface element 4. The resilient region should preferably have a high degree of rigidity in order to be able to limit the travel between the reinforcement element 3 and the actuator 2 under high force action.

[0162] Figure 14 shows how the damping part 11 can be designed as a sub-region of the interface element 4. For this purpose, the sheet metal from which the interface element 4 is made is bent around the reinforcement part 3 and furthermore has an additional U-shaped bend across the entire width in the x-direction, wherein the U-shaped bend acts as the spring of the damping part.

[0163] Preferably, the damping part 11 does not lie directly on the piezoelectric actuator 2 in order to avoid unnecessary impacts against the actuator 2.

[0164] Preferably, the distance between the damping part 11 and the actuator 2 is so large that contact only occurs when the acting forces become too large and exceed a certain threshold, e.g. 80 N. In this case, an irreversible force - which could just be tolerated due to the damping part 11 - can be, for example, 100 N. So if the damping part 11 is designed appropriately - in this case, for example, for an additional load of 20 N - damage to the actuator 2 or the reinforcing element 3 up to 100 N can be reliably prevented.

[0165] In further embodiments, for example shown in Figure 15, the material expenditure is further reduced.

[0166] In particular, the damping part 11, the interface element 4, and the reinforcing element 3 are embodied in a single component. Furthermore, the interface element 4 preferably also has a resilient effect or comprises a spring part 7. However, the entire material between the functional sections of the elements can be recessed, as shown in Figures 15, 16, and 17.

[0167] The further figures 18 and 19 show further embodiments of the piezoelectric actuator component 1 according to the invention.

[0168] Preferably, all embodiments are designed so that the force transmission between the piezoelectric actuator 2 and the components 20 and 30 of the device is as high as possible, which can be ensured by a central attachment of the interface element 4 on the reinforcement element 3 in the z-direction, by a sufficiently high rigidity of the interface elements 4 and by a sufficient width of the interface elements 4 in the x-direction. The points of the greatest force transmission between the elements 3 and 4 are in particular the joints or the outer edges of the partial area 3B or abutting area 3B of the mechanical reinforcement element 3, so that the interface elements 4 preferably cover these areas with their fastening areas 4A. For this purpose, the fastening area 4A can preferably protrude beyond the central partial area 3B or the abutting area 3B in the x-direction.

[0169] Furthermore, the material expenditure should be minimized as much as possible, so that as many components as possible are implemented in one element and material is preferably left out wherever possible.

[0170] The interface elements 4 also allow for greater tolerance when installing the piezoelectric actuator component 1 into the device between the components 30 and 40. This is due, firstly, to the interface elements 4 being preferably flexibly bendable in the z-direction, and, secondly, to the position of the fixation being adjustable in the x- or y-direction, for example, by means of appropriately dimensioned elongated holes within a predetermined tolerance range.

[0171] Preferably, the elongated holes have a maximum dimension of between 1 mm and 1.5 mm, with maximum diameters of the circular segments of up to 4 mm.

[0172] Furthermore, spring parts 7, which can also be designed as part of the interface elements 4, can enable the setting of a standardized preload of the piezoelectric actuator 2 during installation in the device and also increase the installation tolerance with regard to the dimensions of the actuator element 1 and the recess provided for installation, since the spring parts 7 are compressible. This means that the spring parts 7 can be slightly adjusted in their length.

[0173] A typical length of an interface element 4 in the y-direction with integrated spring part 7 is between 10 and 40 mm. The width in the x-direction is typically between 5 and 20 mm. The spring part 7 can preferably achieve a length change in the y-direction or, alternatively, in the x-direction of up to 1 mm.

[0174] Figures 20 and 21 show exemplary embodiments for the electrical connection and contacting of the piezoelectric actuator 2.

[0175] The contact shown can be combined with any of the embodiments of the actuator component 1.

[0176] The piezoelectric actuator 2 comprises two external electrodes 50 with different polarities during operation for external electrical contacting via a connection element. The external electrodes are shown in various figures. To simplify the external connection, in the example, both external electrodes 50 are arranged on the same outer side of the piezoelectric actuator.

[0177] Figure 20 shows a flexible connection element 40, for example a so-called flexible printed circuit (FPC), which is connected to the two connection electrodes 50. For example, the connection element 40 can be soldered to the external electrodes.

[0178] The shown electrical connection of the piezoelectric actuator 2 via the connection element 40 to a single outer side of the actuator 2 makes it possible to reduce the number of process steps, for example in the production of the external contacts on the base body. The external electrodes in the case of elongated piezoceramic components are usually located on the two end faces of the base body. This type of positioning of electrical contacts leads to increased expenditure in large-scale production and limits the options for electrical connections. For example, FPC connections are then very difficult or even impossible to implement. By placing the external electrodes 50 next to one another on a single outer side of the piezoelectric actuator 2, the production expenditure can be essentially halved because both external electrodes 50 can be applied in a single process step.Furthermore, the piezoelectric actuator 2 can be connected via a connection element 40 formed by an FPC, as described, which can reduce the overall space required for system integration of the actuator component 1 and simplify handling. Particularly in large-scale production, this can also reduce production costs, since the connection process for connecting the connection element 40 takes place on only one side of the piezoelectric actuator 2. Furthermore, processes such as reflux soldering, laser soldering, hotbar soldering, or the use of anisotropic conductive adhesive (ACF: "anisotropic conductive film") can only be effectively used with the described geometry.

[0179] As an alternative to the FPC shown in Figure 20, two cables 41 can also be used as the connecting element. These cables are advantageous due to their more flexible handling. External electrodes on different sides of the actuator 2 can also be easily and flexibly contacted using cables 41.

[0180] The cables 41 comprise electrically conductive wires and an electrically insulating sheath, e.g. made of plastic.

[0181] For example, the cables 41 or the electrically conductive wires of the cables, which are exposed from the cable insulation in the area of ​​the outer electrodes, can also be soldered to the outer electrodes 50.

[0182] Figures 22 and 23 show additional embodiments of the actuator component 1 in which the connection between the mechanical amplifier elements 3 and the interface elements 4 is additionally reinforced by connecting elements 37.

[0183] In combination with connecting elements 37 between the mechanical amplifier elements 3 and the interface elements 4, such as welding points or adhesive points, as indicated in Figure 22, or a weld seam or adhesive seam, as indicated in Figure 23, it is possible to increase the rigidity of the amplifier elements 3 and the interface elements 4 and their connection in order to be able to transmit the mechanical energy between the aforementioned elements and beyond these elements with only minimal losses. This advantageously leads to enhanced haptic feedback.

[0184] The connecting elements can be provided in all disclosed embodiments, regardless of the design of the amplifier elements 3 and the interface elements 4. In particular, the connecting elements 37 can also be provided in one-piece elements, such as those known from Figures 7 et seq., which comprise amplifier elements 3 and interface elements 4.

[0185] Figures 24 and 25 show further embodiments in which the reinforcement elements and the interface elements are joined by a material bond, such as gluing or welding. Figure 25 shows a half-section of the embodiment of Figure 24.

[0186] In particular, the elements present here as two parts, amplifier element 3 and interface element 4, can also be connected purely materially instead of in a form-fitting or force-fitting manner, as shown in previous embodiments.

[0187] For this purpose, the interface element 4 is placed, preferably centrally, perpendicularly on the outwardly facing surface of the amplifier element 3 and is connected to it in a materially bonded manner, e.g. glued or welded.

[0188] In particular, as shown in Figure 24, adhesive points or welding points 37 can be provided for the material-locking connection, as previously introduced as connecting elements 37 in Figures 22 and 23. Welded or adhesive seams can also be provided alternatively or in combination with the welded or adhesive points. An additional positive or non-positive connection between the reinforcement elements 3 and the interface elements 4 is then not required.

[0189] Reference sign

[0190] 1 piezoelectric actuator component

[0191] 2 piezoelectric actuator

[0192] 3 mechanical amplifier element

[0193] 3A side areas

[0194] 3B central part, lounge area

[0195] 3C, 3D bending edges

[0196] 4 Interface element

[0197] 4A Mounting area

[0198] 5 elongated holes

[0199] 6 grooves

[0200] 7 Spring part

[0201] 8 Positioning aid

[0202] 9 Centering aids

[0203] 11 Damping part

[0204] 20 rigid components

[0205] 21 Surface area of ​​the rigid component

[0206] 24 Interface element for the rigid component

[0207] 30 moving components

[0208] 31 Surface area of ​​the moving component

[0209] 34 Interface element for the moving component

[0210] 37 fasteners

[0211] 40 flexible connecting element

[0212] 41 cables

[0213] 50 external electrodes

Claims

Claims 1. A device for generating haptic feedback comprising two components (20, 30) which are movable relative to one another and an installable actuator component (1) which is fixed between the two components, wherein the actuator component (1) comprises: a piezoelectric actuator (2) which is mechanically coupled to the two components (20, 30), a mechanical reinforcement element (3), wherein the mechanical reinforcement element is fastened to the piezoelectric actuator (2), and an interface element (4).

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the mechanical reinforcement element (3) by means of the interface element (4) is mechanically connected to one of the components.

3. Device according to claim 2, wherein the interface element (4) is fixed to the reinforcing element (3) and to the component, wherein the fixation of the interface element (4) to the reinforcing element (3) is carried out in a material-locking, form-locking and / or force-locking manner or the interface element (4) and the reinforcing element (3) are designed as one piece.

4. Device according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the interface element (4) is designed to provide a fitting tolerance in at least one spatial direction when fixed to the component during installation of the actuator component (1).

5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mechanical reinforcement element (3) is designed and arranged to deform as a result of a change in an extension of the piezoelectric actuator (2) in a first direction x such that a contact region (3B) of the mechanical reinforcement element (3) is moved relative to the piezoelectric actuator (2) in a second direction y, which is perpendicular to the first direction x.

6. Device according to claim 5, wherein the movement of the contact area (3B) in the second direction y exerts a force on the component via the interface element (4).

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the interface element (4) is a flat molded part, which preferably comprises a metal or a fiber-reinforced plastic.

8. Device according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the interface element (4) is bendable in a third direction z, perpendicular to the first direction x and to the second direction y and thus offers a fitting tolerance or tolerance compensation in at least the third direction z during fixing.

9. Device according to claim 8, wherein the interface element (4) has a groove (5) which facilitates the bending of the interface element (4).

10. Device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the Interface element (4) is a flexibly bendable sheet.

11. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the interface element (4) is fixed to the component by means of at least one screw, wherein the interface element (4) has an elongated hole (5) for receiving the screw, wherein the elongated hole (5) offers a fitting tolerance in at least the first direction x or the second direction y or in both directions x and y during the fixing.

12. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the interface element (4) has a fastening region (4A) which lies flat against the contact region (3B) of the mechanical reinforcement element (3) and is fastened thereto.

13. Device according to claim 12, wherein the fastening region (4A) is glued to the contact region (3B).

14. Device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the The fastening area (4A) is bent around the contact area (3B).

15. Device according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the fastening region (4A) for fastening to the abutment region (3B) is at least one of screwed, riveted, clamped and plugged together.

16. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the Interface element (4) and the mechanical Reinforcing element (3) is made in one piece.

17. Device according to claim 16, wherein the mechanical reinforcement element (3) is designed as a region bent perpendicular to the interface element (4).

18. Device according to claim 17, wherein the mechanical reinforcing element (3) has bending edges (3C, 3D) on one or more sides, which stiffen the reinforcing element (3).

19. Device according to one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the actuator component (1) comprises a spring part (7) which functions as a spring, wherein the spring part (7) is designed such that by compressing the spring part (7) the actuator component (1) can be positioned with a fitting tolerance in at least the first direction x between the two components (20, 30) and that the spring part (7) preloads the piezoelectric actuator to a desired extent after the actuator component (1) has been positioned between the two components (20, 30) and before fixing.

20. Device according to claim 19, wherein the spring part (7) is designed such that the actuator component (1) is fixed in its position after positioning between the two components (20, 30) and before fixing by the spring part (7).

21. Device according to one of claims 19 or 20, wherein the actuator component (1) comprises the interface element (4) and the spring part (7) which functions as a spring, wherein the spring part (7) is designed such that by compressing the spring part (7) the actuator component (1) with a fitting tolerance of at least the first direction x between the two components (20,30) and that the spring part (7) preloads the piezoelectric actuator (2) to a desired extent after positioning the actuator component (1) between the two components (20,30) and before fixing.

22. Device according to one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the spring part (7) is formed integrally with the interface element (4) as a part of the interface element (4).

23. Device according to one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the spring part (7) is a component separate from the interface element (4) and arranged between the interface element (4) and the component.

24. Device according to one of claims 19 to 23, wherein two symmetrically arranged spring parts (7) are arranged or formed on the interface element (4) of the actuator component (1).

25. Device according to one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the interface element (4) has recesses to reduce the material expenditure.

26. Device according to one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the interface element (4) lies flat on the component.

27. Device according to claim 26, wherein the interface element (4) is fixed to the component by means of gluing or screwing.

28. Device according to claim 27, wherein the interface element (4) has a structure with regularly arranged honeycomb-shaped recesses to facilitate bonding.

29. Device according to one of claims 26 to 28, wherein the interface element (4) has centering aids (9) which are designed to facilitate precise positioning of the interface element (4) on the component or to specify the precise position in at least one spatial direction.

30. Device according to claim 29, wherein the centering aids (9) are bending edges designed to specify a precise positioning of the interface element (4) in at least the first direction x.

31. Device according to claim 30, wherein the bending edges are designed such that they allow a fitting tolerance when positioning the interface element (4).

32. Device according to one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the interface element (4) and the mechanical reinforcement element (3) are made of the same material.

33. Device according to one of claims 1 to 32, wherein the interface element (4) consists of an electrically insulating material and has electromagnetic shielding properties.

34. Device according to one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the mechanical reinforcement element (3) or the The interface element (4) which is designed as a single piece with the mechanical reinforcement element (3) has a damping part (11) for damping movements and for limiting movements of the mechanical reinforcement element (3) towards the piezoelectric actuator (2).

35. Device according to claim 34, wherein the damping part (11) is designed as a mechanical spring which is positioned between the mechanical reinforcement element (3) and the piezoelectric actuator (2).

36. Device according to one of claims 1 to 35, a movement, force or pressure sensor for measuring the deflection of the mechanical reinforcement element (3) is positioned between the mechanical reinforcement element (3) and the piezoelectric actuator (2).

37. Device according to claim 36, wherein the sensor is a capacitive sensor comprising a first conductor which is part of the mechanical reinforcement element (3) and a second conductor which is part of the piezoelectric actuator (2).

38. Device according to one of claims 1 to 37, wherein the component has a positioning aid (8) which is suitable for fixing the position of the interface element (4) on the component with play tolerance.

39. Device according to claim 38, wherein the positioning aid (8) is suitable for fixing the interface element (4) in its position after positioning and before fixing.

40. Device according to one of claims 38 or 39, wherein the positioning aid (8) is designed as a pin or as a pin, and wherein the interface element (4) has a recess into which the positioning aid (8) can be inserted.

41. Device according to one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the positioning aid (8) is suitable for determining the position of the two components (20, 30) relative to one another and for limiting a movement of the two components (20, 30) relative to one another.

42. Device according to one of claims 1 to 41, wherein the actuator component (1) further comprises a second mechanical reinforcement element (3) which is fastened to the piezoelectric actuator (2), wherein the piezoelectric actuator (2) is arranged between the first and the second mechanical reinforcement element (3), and a second interface element (4) by means of which the second mechanical reinforcement element (3) is mechanically connected to the respective other component than the first interface element (4) by the second interface element (4) being fixed to the second reinforcement element (3) and to the component, wherein the second interface element (4) is designed to provide a fit tolerance in at least one spatial direction when fixed to the component during installation of the actuator component (1), wherein the second mechanical reinforcement element (3) is designed and arranged toto deform as a result of a change in an extension of the piezoelectric actuator in the first direction such that a contact area (3B) of the second mechanical reinforcement element (3) relative to, the piezoelectric actuator (2) is moved in the second direction, thereby exerting a force on the component via the second interface element (4).

43. Device according to one of claims 1 to 42, comprising a connection element (40, 41), wherein the piezoelectric actuator (2) has external electrodes (50) which are electrically connected to the connection element (40, 41).

44. Device according to one of claims 1 to 43, comprising a connecting element (37), in the form of welding points or adhesive points or welding seams or adhesive seams, which stiffens a transition between the mechanical amplifier element (3) and the interface element (4).

45. A method for assembling the device according to any one of claims 1 to 44, wherein the actuator component (1) is positioned between the two components which are movable relative to each other and is fixed between the two components (20, 30) by means of the interface element (4).

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