Vehicle Gearbox Actuator Unit With FPC-Mounted Temperature Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator units for vehicle gearboxes require cumbersome and labor-intensive installation of temperature sensors, which complicates the automation of sensor fitting and integration with other components.
Innovation Solution
An actuator unit with a flexible printed circuit board that integrates temperature sensors, eliminating the need for separate sensor components and simplifying installation by using preassembled latching elements and a plug system for easy mounting and electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If temperature sensor is mounted as a separate component on the baseplate, then the baseplate can be used as installation support, but the installation process becomes complex and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor is integrated directly onto the flexible printed circuit board (FPC) rather than being mounted as a separate component on the baseplate. This merging of the temperature sensor with the FPC reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the installation process, as the temperature sensor is already positioned and connected when the FPC is installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible printed circuit board serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connections for the actuators and sensors, positions the position sensors, and now also carries the temperature sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting operations for the temperature sensor, as the FPC already serves as the installation support.
2Productivity
If multiple separate components are used for sensors and temperature monitoring, then each component can be optimized independently, but the installation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor is pre-mounted on the flexible printed circuit board during FPC manufacturing, before the FPC is installed in the actuator unit. This preliminary action ensures that the temperature sensor is already in its final position and electrically connected, eliminating the need for separate installation steps during assembly.
3Device complexity
If temperature sensor is integrated into the flexible printed circuit board, then installation is simplified, but the FPC must support additional functional requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible printed circuit board is designed to perform multiple functions: providing electrical connections for hydraulic actuators and position sensors, positioning the position sensors precisely, and carrying the temperature sensor. This multi-functional design integrates the temperature sensor without requiring additional installation steps, as the FPC already serves as the mounting substrate.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and automated installation of temperature sensors, reducing installation complexity and ensuring precise positioning, while maintaining reliable electrical connections and sealing, thereby enhancing the overall integration and functionality of the actuator unit.
Implementation Method 1
The temperature sensor can be an NTC resistor which can be mounted on the flexible printed circuit board with little outlay.
Implementation Method 2
The latching pins can have elastically deformable lugs which can be pressed into suitable bores or openings in the baseplate and remain there by frictional locking.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an actuator unit for a vehicle gearbox, with a baseplate (10), a plurality of actuators (12) which are mounted on the baseplate, a plurality of sensors (20) which are assigned at least to some of the actuators (12), a flexible printed circuit board (24) on which the sensors (20) are mounted, and a temperature sensor (60) which is arranged on the flexible printed circuit board (24).