Electromagnetic Park Lock Actuator for Low-Force Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing park locks for automatic transmissions in motor vehicles have complex constructions, require high hydraulic pressure for actuation, and necessitate large forces to mechanically release or close them, leading to significant weight and size issues.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic lock actuator with an electromechanically movable actuating element, a locking slotted guide designed as a sleeve, and at least one locking element that is advanced by the locking slotted guide depending on the position of the actuating element, reducing the force required for actuation and enabling a smaller, lighter design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional locking devices with locking elements and slotted guides are used, then the park lock can be mechanically locked, but great forces are necessary to release the locking device due to jamming between locking elements and guides
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical locking system with an electromagnetic locking system. Instead of using locking elements that engage with slotted guides through mechanical force, the invention uses a locking coil that generates a magnetic field to hold the locking element in position. This electromagnetic substitution eliminates the jamming problem between mechanical components and significantly reduces the force required to release the locking device, as the magnetic hold can be released by simply de-energizing the coil rather than applying mechanical force to overcome friction and jamming.
2Force
If electro-hydraulic park locks with spring accumulators are used, then the park lock can be preloaded and unlocked hydraulically, but high hydraulic pressure is required for actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electro-hydraulic actuation system with an electromagnetic actuation system. Instead of using a hydraulically operated cylinder or piston that requires high hydraulic pressure to overcome the spring accumulator preload, the invention uses an electromagnetic actuator with a locking coil and armature. The electromagnetic force generated by the locking coil can directly overcome the spring preload without requiring high hydraulic pressure, thereby eliminating the need for complex hydraulic systems and reducing the pressure requirements.
3Reliability
If traditional park lock designs are used, then the locking function can be achieved, but the park locks are of considerable weight and size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical and hydraulic components with lighter electromagnetic components. The traditional park lock design requires heavy spring accumulators, hydraulic cylinders, pistons, and complex locking mechanisms to achieve reliable locking. The invention uses an electromagnetic actuator with a locking coil, armature, and simple locking element that can achieve the same locking function with significantly reduced weight. The electromagnetic system eliminates the need for heavy hydraulic fluid reservoirs, large-diameter cylinders, and complex mechanical linkages.
4Reliability
If traditional park lock designs are used, then the locking function can be achieved, but the park locks require a large size that is not to be neglected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical and hydraulic components with compact electromagnetic components. The traditional park lock design requires large-volume spring accumulators, hydraulic cylinders with sufficient bore diameter to generate required forces, and extensive piping and mounting structures. The electromagnetic actuator consists of a compact locking coil, small armature, and minimal supporting structure, achieving the same locking function in a much smaller package. The electromagnetic field generation does not require large physical dimensions like hydraulic systems do.
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
The solution results in a more energy-efficient, reliable, and cost-effective lock actuator that reduces the forces needed for locking or unlocking, allowing for smaller and lighter designs while maintaining effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
The locking slotted guide has a first surface and a second surface, which are connected to a first gradient by a wedge surface, wherein the first surface in the first position and the second surface in the second position are in operative contact with the at least one locking element. Accordingly, the at least one locking element is advanced by the locking slotted guide depending on the position of the movable actuating element
Implementation Method 2
The present invention relates to a lock actuator with an electromechanically movable and actuatable actuating element
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle park lock actuator is arranged in a longitudinal axis and has a movable actuating element which is movable into a first position and a second position. A locking slotted guide, and a locking element is held displaceably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and has a first surface and a second surface at a different distance from the longitudinal axis, and connected by a wedge surface with a gradient. The first surface is in operative contact with the locking element in the first position and a second surface is in operative contact with the locking element in the second position. At least the first surface and/or the second surface is inclined in relation to the wedge surface.