Actuator Arrangement and Method for Operating

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This invention describes a magnetic actuator arrangement using a magnetic shape memory alloy (MSMA) as the actuating element. The arrangement includes two devices to generate magnetic flux in orthogonal directions, a control system to switch between them, and an anisotropic pole shoe that efficiently directs magnetic flux within the actuator for improved performance. Changing the direction of the applied magnetic field causes the MSMA actuator element to elongate or contract, thus producing movement or force. This setup improves magnetic flux guidance and actuator efficiency compared to known solutions.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Precision control in robotics (e.g., grippers, end-effectors)
• Automated valves for pneumatic or hydraulic systems
• Locking or releasing mechanisms in safety devices
• Linear actuators in industrial automation
• Pick-and-place mechanisms in manufacturing
• Automotive applications requiring reliable and fast linear movement, especially where power loss or fail-safe holding is needed
• Energy-efficient actuation in electrical or electronics equipment

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Faster response time compared to thermal shape memory alloys (milliseconds instead of seconds)
• Higher attainable stroke than with piezoelectric actuators
• Ability to hold position without continuous energy supply (energy-saving and ideal for fail-safe applications)
• Improved efficiency and targeted magnetic flux guidance using anisotropic pole shoes
• Self-sensing capability can reduce the need for separate sensors, lowering costs and complexity
• Modular and flexible design enables adaptation to a variety of actuator geometries and sizes
• Reduces losses and unwanted magnetic flux paths, boosting actuator output and lifespan

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an actuator assembly, having an actuator element (1), a first flux generating device (5) for generating a magnetic flux, a second flux generating device (6) for generating a magnetic flux, a control device (15) and a pole shoe element (11, 12, 13, 14). The actuator element (1) has a magnetic shape memory alloy and a region of the actuator element (1) has a first length in a first direction, if the region is penetrated by a magnetic field in the first direction, and has a second length, different from the first length, in the first direction, if the region is penetrated by a magnetic field in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. The control device (15) is configured to control the first flux generating device (5) and/or the second flux generating device (6) according to a first operating state and a second operating state, such that in the first operating state the actuator element (1) is penetrated by a first magnetic flux (3) in the first direction, and in the second operating state the actuator element (1) is penetrated by a second magnetic flux (4) in the second direction. The pole shoe element (11, 12, 13, 14) is configured to guide the first magnetic flux (3) in the first direction through the actuator element (1) or to guide the second magnetic flux (4) in the second direction through the actuator element (1). The pole shoe element (11, 12, 13, 14) is provided as a magnetic anisotropic pole shoe element. The invention also relates to a method for operating an actuator assembly.