Electromagnetic Plunger Actuation With Linear Position Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electromagnetic actuating devices for torque transmission systems in vehicles are not satisfactory due to their complexity, size, and cost, particularly because they require a large frame and a rotating detection target which is heavy, bulky, and prone to micro-displacements.

Innovation Solution

The proposed electromagnetic actuating device features a shell with a recess and a detection lug fixed to the plunger, which passes through the recess, allowing for axial movement and eliminating the need for a rotating target, thus simplifying the structure and reducing size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a rotating detection target is used to detect plunger position, then the position detection function is achieved, but the device becomes heavier and more bulky

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplunger position detectionVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the rotation function from the detection target, leaving only the essential position detection function. The detection target is simplified to a non-rotating component with a detection lug that moves linearly with the plunger, eliminating the need for rotational motion and associated weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of rotating the detection target to track plunger position, the invention inverts the approach by having the detection lug move linearly with the plunger while the sensor remains stationary. This reverses the traditional rotation-based detection mechanism into a linear translation-based mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Measurement precision

If a rotating detection target is used, then position detection is enabled, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplunger position detectionVSAvoiddevice area

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The rotational motion and associated circular geometry are extracted from the detection system. Only the essential linear detection function remains, implemented through a simple detection lug that translates with the plunger, significantly reducing the spatial footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention inverts the detection mechanism from rotation-based to translation-based. The detection target does not rotate but instead moves linearly with the plunger, allowing for a more compact device layout.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Strength

If a large frame is used to house the coil and plunger, then structural support is provided, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural supportVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the frame structure with the shell that houses the coil and plunger. The shell serves dual functions as both the structural support and the housing, eliminating the need for a separate large frame and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The shell is designed to perform multiple functions: providing structural support, housing the coil and plunger, and serving as the mounting surface for the sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If a rotating target is used, then position detection works, but the target is stressed by oil flows causing micro-displacements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition detectionVSAvoidtarget stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention inverts the detection approach from rotation-based to translation-based. The detection lug moves linearly with the plunger rather than rotating, eliminating the rotational inertia and susceptibility to oil flow-induced micro-displacements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotational motion and associated vulnerabilities to fluid dynamics are extracted from the detection target. The simplified linear detection lug is not subject to the same oil flow stresses that affect rotating components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

This design results in a more compact, simpler, and cost-effective actuating device that prevents relative rotation between the plunger and the shell, reducing the device's size and complexity while maintaining effective operation.

Implementation Method 1

the shell being fixed relative to the axis X and comprising walls defining an annular cavity which houses a coil and at least partially a plunger which is able to move axially along the axis X to actuate a coupling device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12222026B2Electromagnetic actuating device and transmission system provided with said electromagnetic actuating device

Publication Date: 2025.02.11 VALEO EMBRAYAGES SAS

AI summary

An electromagnetic actuating device for a torque transmission system includes a shell arranged around an axis X. The shell being fixed relative to the axis X and includes walls defining an annular cavity which houses a coil and at least partially a plunger which is able to move axially along the axis X to actuate a coupling device.