EP4256595A1

EP4256595A1 - Fast-acting actuator device

Info

Publication number: EP4256595A1
Application number: EP21830409.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jörg BÜRSSNER; Peter Vincon; Valerio RESCIGNO; Benedikt Fendrich; Anthony Laval
Original assignee: ETO Magnetic GmbH
Current assignee: ETO Magnetic GmbH
Priority date: 2020-12-03
Filing date: 2021-12-03
Publication date: 2023-10-11
Also published as: CN116724372A; US20240047160A1; DE102020132224A1; WO2022117822A1

Abstract

A fast-acting actuator device (68), in particular a circuit breaker device, is proposed, having a mechanical clamping element (10), having an armature element (12) which can be preloaded by the mechanical clamping element (10) and which, driven by relaxation of the mechanical clamping element (10), is movable from at least one first end position (14) into at least one second end position (16), having a magnet unit (18) which is provided to hold the armature element (12) in the first end position (14) by means of a magnetic field generated by the magnet unit (18), and having a resetting unit (20) which is provided to move back the armature element (12) at least from the second end position (16) into the first end position (14) by means of a motor-driveable resetting element (22) and, in the process, to preload the mechanical clamping element (10).

Description

Fast switching actuator device

State of the art

The invention relates to a fast-switching actuator device according to claim 1, an actuator according to claim 29 and a method according to claim 30.

Electromagnetic actuators are already known. However, the switching speeds of electromagnetic actuators are limited, especially in the case of larger strokes.

The object of the invention consists in particular in providing a generic device with advantageous properties with regard to a switching speed and/or with regard to an achievable stroke. The object is achieved according to the invention by the features of patent claims 1, 29 and 30, while advantageous configurations and developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

Advantages of the Invention

A preferably fast-switching actuator device, in particular a circuit breaker device, with a mechanical tensioning element, with an anchor element that can be pretensioned by the mechanical tensioning element, which, driven by relaxation of the mechanical tensioning element, can be moved from at least a first end position into at least a second end position, with a magnet unit, which is intended to hold the anchor element, preferably directly, by a magnetic field generated by the magnet unit in the first end position, and with a restoring unit, which is intended to hold the anchor element by means of a motor-driven return element to move back at least from the second end position to the first end position, thereby biasing the mechanical tensioning element, in particular to bias in comparison to a state of the mechanical actuating element in the second end position, proposed. As a result, a particularly rapid adjustment movement (eg <6 ms) in at least one adjustment direction, in particular with an advantageously large stroke (eg >7 mm), can advantageously be achieved. Advantageously, the configuration of the actuator device allows for the rapid adjustment movement with the large stroke in a particularly small installation space, in particular in relation to the achievable stroke.

In particular, the actuator device forms at least one part, in particular a subassembly, of an actuator with an anchor element that is mechanically moved at least in one adjustment direction. In particular, the actuator device forms at least one part, in particular a subassembly, of a monostable actuator. In particular, the actuator device is designed as a monostable actuator device. The actuator device is advantageously provided at least for use in a circuit breaker (contactor), in particular in a motor vehicle circuit breaker, preferably in a battery circuit breaker. For example, the actuator device can form a circuit breaker of a motor vehicle on-board network. The mechanical tensioning element is designed in particular as a mechanical spring element, for example as a compression spring, in particular as a spiral compression spring or the like. Furthermore, an “anchor element” should be understood to mean a component which is provided during operation of the actuator device to exert a movement which determines the function of the actuator, for example triggering a disconnection of a circuit, in particular a safety shutdown of the circuit. In particular, the anchor element can be influenced, in particular moved, by a spring force of the mechanical tensioning element. In particular, the anchor element has a spring seat on which the mechanical tensioning element has one end is supported. The anchor element can preferably be influenced by means of a magnetic signal, in particular a magnetic field. In particular, a movement of the anchor element can be restricted by the magnetic field; the magnetic field preferably prevents a movement of the anchor element at least temporarily. In particular, the anchor element is provided to carry out a linear movement, preferably exclusively a linear movement. In particular, when the anchor element is in the first end position, the mechanical tensioning element is tensioned, preferably maximally tensioned (compressed in length), at least in comparison to the state of the mechanical tensioning element when the anchor element is in the second end position. In particular, when the anchor element is in the second end position, the mechanical tensioning element is relaxed, at least in comparison to the state of the mechanical tensioning element when the anchor element is in the first end position. In particular, the mechanical tensioning element is provided to drive the first adjustment movement of the anchor element at least predominantly or exclusively by means of a spring force.

“Provided” should be understood to mean, in particular, specially programmed, designed and/or equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function is to be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and/or executes this specific function in at least one application and/or operating state.

In particular, the magnet unit is provided to prevent a movement of the tensioning element depending on the magnetic field generated. In particular, the magnet unit is provided to generate a magnetic field, which exerts a holding force on the anchor element, which acts against the spring force of the mechanical tensioning element. In particular, the magnet unit does not generate any force that drives the adjustment movements of the anchor element. In particular, the magnet unit holds the anchor element indirectly, for example by controlling a state or a position of a locking element holding the anchor element in the first end position or Latching element, or preferably directly, for example by a direct attractive interaction with a magnetically active part of the anchor element, fixed in the first end position. In particular, the restoring element is provided to mechanically push or press the anchor element from the second end position into the first end position. In particular, the restoring unit includes a motor drive, for example an electric motor that generates a rotational movement or an electric linear motor. In particular, the motor-driven restoring element is connected to the motor-driven drive via a type of gearing in order to transmit the driving force.

It is also proposed that a first adjustment movement generated by the relaxation of the mechanical tensioning element, in which at least the anchor element moves from the first end position to the second end position, generates a stroke of at least 7 mm within a maximum of 6 ms. As a result, a particularly fast switching with a particularly large stroke can advantageously be generated by the actuator device. The first adjusting movement preferably produces a stroke of at least 10 mm within a maximum of 4 ms.

In addition, it is proposed that a second adjustment movement generated by the resetting unit for resetting the mechanical tensioning element, during which at least the anchor element moves from the second end position to the first end position, should be performed much more slowly, preferably at least 40 times, preferably at least 75 times and especially preferably at least 100 times slower than the first adjusting movement. As a result, a return of the anchor element that is gentle on the material can advantageously be achieved. This can advantageously ensure a long service life for the actuator device and/or that optimal functionality of the actuator device is maintained over a long period of time. In particular, the duration of the second actuating movement is in the range of several hundred milliseconds (eg in a range from approximately 200 ms to 600 ms). Furthermore, it is proposed that the resetting unit is intended to control a third positioning movement, in particular as an alternative to the first positioning movement that runs independently of the resetting unit, in which the anchor element moves much more slowly, preferably at least 40 times, preferably at least 75 times and particularly preferably at least 100 times slower, moved from the first end position into the second end position than in the case of the first adjusting movement running independently of the restoring unit. As a result, an additional controlled movement of the armature element from the first end position into the second end position, for example for a controlled switch-off/disconnection of an electric circuit, can advantageously be made possible. Advantageously, this means that not every movement of the anchor element from the first end position into the second end position has to take place at maximum actuating speed, so that the components of the actuator device can advantageously be protected as a result. A service life can advantageously be increased. For example, when using the actuator device in a motor vehicle on-board network, the third actuating movement enables a controlled shutdown (e.g. when the motor vehicle is parked), while the first actuating movement is provided for an emergency shutdown (e.g. in the event of an accident or the like). In particular, during the third adjustment movement, the anchor element is moved into the second end position by means of the motor-driven restoring element with controlled relaxation of the mechanical adjustment element.

It is also proposed that the magnet unit comprises an electromagnet which, at least in the activated state, is intended to exert an attractive force on at least part of the anchor element in order to fix the anchor element in the first end position. As a result, a currentless fail-safe position of the actuator device can advantageously be achieved in the second end position. In particular, the electromagnet holds the anchor element in the activated state against the spring force of the mechanical tensioning element in the first end position. In particular, the anchor element comprises a magnetic element which is intended to to interact attractively with the magnetic field of the magnet unit. In particular, the magnetic element is at least partially made of a ferromagnetic material. In particular, the magnetic element is integrated into the anchor element. Alternatively, the magnetic element can be formed separately from the anchor element and can preferably be connected to the anchor element. In addition, as an alternative to the direct interaction of the electromagnet with the part of the anchor element, it is also conceivable for the magnet unit to have a permanent magnet, which interacts attractively with at least part of the anchor element, in which case the magnetic field of the permanent magnet then causes the anchor element to be loosened in the first end position could be superimposed with a switching magnetic field of the electromagnet. In this case, instead of the de-energized fail-safe position of the actuator device in the second end position, a de-energized fail-safe position of the actuator device could advantageously be achieved in the first end position. In particular, the electromagnet is fixed relative to a housing unit of the actuator device, preferably attached to the housing unit. In particular, the anchor element is movably mounted relative to the housing unit, in particular movably mounted within the housing unit.

If the actuator device has the housing unit, which encloses at least a large part of the electromagnet and at least a large part of the armature element and/or at least a large part of the mechanical tensioning element, simple assembly and/or fitting into a limited installation space can advantageously be made possible. A high degree of compactness of the actuator device, in particular in relation to the achievable stroke, can advantageously be achieved. In particular, the mechanical tensioning element is arranged entirely within the housing unit. In particular, the armature element is arranged completely within the housing unit, with the exception of an actuating element that is moved by the armature element and is optionally formed in one piece with the armature element. In particular, only the actuating element as the only component of the actuator device protrudes beyond the housing unit. In particular, the magnet unit, preferably at least the electromagnet, is arranged completely within the housing unit. In particular, the motor drive for driving the restoring element is arranged completely within the housing unit. In particular, the housing unit includes a cover element. The cover element can in particular be removable, but the cover element is preferably firmly (positively) connected to the housing unit, for example plastic welded or pressed or the like.

In addition, it is proposed that the electromagnet is arranged at least essentially laterally next to the mechanical tensioning element in relation to an expansion direction of the mechanical tensioning element. As a result, a particularly high degree of compactness can advantageously be achieved, in particular with regard to the expansion direction of the mechanical actuating element and/or with regard to an extension parallel to the actuating directions of the anchor element. The direction of expansion of the mechanical tensioning element runs in particular parallel to a longitudinal extent of the mechanical tensioning element, parallel to a spiral axis of the mechanical tensioning element and/or parallel to the adjustment directions of the anchor element.

In addition, it is proposed that the restoring unit, in particular the motor-driven restoring element, has a driver element which is movably mounted, in particular relative to the housing unit of the actuator device, for contacting the anchor element during an actuating movement by the restoring unit. As a result, an advantageous and/or simple power transmission can be achieved from the motor drive to the anchor element and thus in particular to the mechanical tensioning element. In particular, the driver element follows all movements that the motor-driven restoring element executes. In particular, the driver element is firmly connected to the reset element that can be driven by a motor. In particular, the driver element is formed separately from the anchor element. In particular is the driver element is arranged without contact with the anchor element in at least one operating state of the actuator device.

If the reset element that can be driven by a motor is designed as a toothed wheel, a particularly advantageous and/or simple power transmission can be achieved from the motor drive to the driver element and/or to the reset element. In particular, an axis of rotation of the gear wheel is aligned at least essentially perpendicularly to the adjustment directions of the anchor element and/or to the expansion direction of the mechanical adjustment element. In particular, an axis of rotation of the gear wheel is aligned at least essentially perpendicularly to a coil axis of the electromagnet.

If the driver element is also arranged on a side face of the gear wheel and thus follows a movement of the gear wheel, an effective and/or simple power transmission from the motor drive to the anchor element can advantageously be achieved during the second or third adjustment movement. In particular, the driver element is arranged on a side face of the gear wheel in such a way that it describes a circular path when the gear wheel rotates. In particular, the driver element is arranged outside an innermost quarter, preferably outside an innermost third and preferably outside an inner half of a radius of the side surface of the gear wheel, so that an optimized ratio of transmittable force (torque) and achievable travel, in particular an achievable component of the circular path in a direction parallel to the actuating directions.

It is also proposed that the driver element be provided to carry the anchor element along at least 120°, preferably at least 160°, of a monotonous rotational movement of the gear wheel and/or at most 170°, preferably at most 130°, of the monotonous rotational movement of the gear wheel. As a result, particularly effective tensioning of the mechanical tensioning element can advantageously be achieved, for example by advantageously the largest possible stroke can be transmitted through the gear on the anchor element. A "monotonous rotational movement" is to be understood in particular as a constant or intermittent movement with a constant direction of rotation. In particular, the driver element is always free from contact with the anchor element on a part of the circular path that can be described by the driver element, encompassing at least 120°, preferably at least approximately 180°.

If the driver element is intended to release the armature element following entrainment, in particular after a transfer position for transferring the armature element to the magnet unit has been reached, by a rotational movement of the gear wheel, in particular by a continuation of the rotational movement of the gear wheel, the armature element can advantageously be released in a particularly simple manner for a rapid shift to the first end position subsequent to the resetting process. In this context, a “release” of the anchor element is to be understood in particular as meaning that the driver element is arranged within the housing unit in such a way that collisions between the driver element and the anchor element are ruled out when the first actuating movement is completed. In particular, in this case the driver element is arranged outside of a movement volume swept over by the anchor element during the first actuating movement.

If, in addition, the anchor element has a contact element for absorbing a force exerted on the anchor element by the driver element, which is intended to be at least partially swept over by the driver element during the adjusting movement by the restoring unit, an effective and/or simple transmission of force from the motor drive, in particular from the driver element to the anchor element. In particular, the contact element is formed in one piece, preferably monolithically, with the anchor element. In particular is the contact element is designed as a tab-like projection of the anchor element aligned in the direction of the gear wheel.

In addition, it is proposed that the anchor element has at least a first partial anchor element and a second partial anchor element which is connected to the first partial anchor element and is arranged at least essentially perpendicularly to the first partial anchor element, the contact element being arranged on the first partial anchor element and the second partial anchor element having at least one Seat, in particular the spring seat, for supporting the mechanical tensioning element and/or at least the magnetic element, which is provided for an attractive interaction with the magnetic field of the magnet unit. As a result, an advantageous construction of the anchor element can be achieved. A particularly compact design of the actuator device, in particular in relation to the achievable stroke, can advantageously be achieved. In particular, the first partial anchor element and the second partial anchor element are formed at least in one piece, preferably monolithically, with respect to one another. “In one piece” is to be understood in particular as being at least cohesively connected, for example by a welding process, an adhesive process, an injection molding process and/or another process that appears sensible to the person skilled in the art, and/or advantageously formed in one piece, such as by a Production from a single casting and/or by production using a single-component or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank. In particular, the first partial anchor element and/or the second partial anchor element extends over a surface area, in particular in the manner of a plate.

If the seat, in particular the spring seat, for supporting the mechanical tensioning element and the magnetic element are arranged on opposite sides of the first armature sub-element relative to the first armature sub-element, a particularly advantageous compactness, in particular with regard to the expansion direction of the mechanical Adjusting element and / or in relation to an extension can be achieved parallel to the actuating directions of the anchor element.

If, in addition, at least one reinforcement element, by means of which the first partial anchor element, which is arranged at least essentially in a T-shape in relation to the second anchor element, is supported and reinforced on the second partial anchor element, at least on a side pointing towards the seat for supporting the mechanical tensioning element, a high stability of the anchor element can be achieved. In particular, an eccentric arrangement of the spring seat in the armature element and a resulting eccentric effect of the spring force on the armature element and/or an eccentric arrangement of the magnetic element in the armature element can lead to torsional and/or bending loads within the armature element, which can advantageously be at least partially intercepted by the reinforcing elements. The reinforcement elements form, in particular, support bevels or support wedges.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the anchor element has a guide element formed in one piece for receiving and/or guiding the mechanical tensioning element. As a result, a high level of operational reliability can advantageously be achieved, in particular in that a position and movement of the mechanical tensioning element can be precisely specified. In particular, the guide element is designed as a cylindrical elevation of the anchor element. In particular, at least part of the mechanical tensioning element encloses the guide element.

In addition, it is proposed that the mechanical tensioning element be designed as a spiral spring, in particular a spiral compression spring, wound at least in sections and/or partially around the guide element. As a result, a high level of operational reliability can advantageously be achieved, in particular in that a position and movement of the spiral spring can be precisely specified. Furthermore, it is proposed that the fast-switching actuator device has the actuating element that is at least operatively connected to the anchor element, preferably formed in one piece, which is arranged on a side of the anchor element opposite the mechanical tensioning element. As a result, an optimized utilization of the large stroke for an actuating movement can advantageously be achieved. The actuating element is intended in particular to interrupt an electric circuit and/or to actuate a switch which leads to an interruption in an electric circuit. In particular, the actuating element is in a maximum extended state when the anchor element is in the second end position. In particular, the maximally extended state forms a triggering position of the actuating element, which is intended to bring about or bring about an interruption in the electric circuit. In particular, the actuating element is in a minimally extended state when the anchor element is in the first end position. In particular, the minimally extended state forms a safety position of the actuating element, in which the circuit is not interrupted by the actuating element. In particular, the mechanical tensioning unit and return unit drive the movement of the actuating element.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the fast-switching actuator device has an electric motor, which is provided to generate a driving force for moving the restoring element. As a result, controlled tensioning of the mechanical tensioning element can advantageously be made possible. In particular, the electric motor is at least partially, preferably completely, arranged in the housing unit. In particular, the electric motor, like the electromagnet, is supplied with power via a common power input of the housing unit and/or a common power feedthrough of the housing unit.

If the fast-acting actuator device also has a worm gear, which is provided to transmit the driving force of the electric motor to the restoring element, in particular to the gear wheel advantageously a particularly compact design of the actuator device, in particular in relation to the achievable stroke, can be achieved. In particular, the worm gear has a worm wheel, which is arranged on an output of the electric motor that generates a rotational movement. In particular, the worm wheel meshes with the restoring element designed as a gearwheel to convert the rotational movement of the output of the electric motor into a rotational movement of the gearwheel, the axis of rotation of which preferably runs at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the output of the electric motor. The term “essentially perpendicular” is intended here to define in particular an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, with the direction and the reference direction, viewed in particular in a projection plane, enclosing an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of, in particular, less than 8 °, advantageously less than 5° and particularly advantageously less than 2°.

If, in addition, the electric motor is provided to generate a reverse rotation for a controlled transfer of the anchor element, in particular guided by the driver element, from the first end position to the second end position, the controlled movement of the anchor element from the first end position to the second end position can advantageously be made possible will. As a result, the components of the actuator device can advantageously be protected. A service life of the actuator device can advantageously be increased.

In addition, it is proposed that the fast-switching actuator device has a sensor unit, in particular with at least one sensor, which is intended to detect and/or monitor at least one state, in particular at least the end positions of the anchor element, and/or a movement of the anchor element. As a result, precise monitoring and/or control of the movement and/or the position of the anchor element can advantageously be made possible. A high level of operational reliability can advantageously be achieved. If the sensor unit, preferably at least one sensor of the sensor unit, is provided for the purpose of measuring a motor current of an electric motor of the restoring unit to determine a restoring time of the restoring unit, within which the anchor element is moved from the second end position to the first end position, to determine an instantaneous position of a driver element of the To detect and/or monitor the resetting unit, such as an angular position of the driver element or a vertical position of the driver element, and/or to determine a path of the driver element of the resetting unit, precise status monitoring of the actuator device can advantageously be achieved. In this way, malfunctions can advantageously be detected and/or avoided. In particular, the sensor is provided to carry out a ripple count method to determine the instantaneous position and/or the path of the driver element. In particular, the sensor of the sensor unit is designed as an asynchronous counter (ripple counter) which is provided for detecting and evaluating a structure of the motor current of the electric motor, for example a ripple in the motor current. In particular, the asynchronous counter is provided to infer a number of revolutions of the motor and thus the instantaneous position and/or the path of the driver element from a number of detected patterns (eg ripples) in the motor current.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the sensor unit has a Hall sensor, which is intended to monitor a movement of at least part of the restoring element to determine the reset time of the restoring unit, the current position of the driver element and/or the path of the driver element. As a result, precise status monitoring of the actuator device can advantageously be achieved. In this way, malfunctions can advantageously be detected and/or avoided. In particular, the sensor unit includes a magnetic element, which is preferably designed as a permanent magnet. In particular, the Hall sensor is intended to detect a magnetic field of the magnetic element, preferably changes in the Magnetic field of the magnetic element (e.g. changes in a magnetic field strength of the magnetic element at the location of the Hall sensor, changes in a magnetic field direction of the magnetic element at the location of the Hall sensor, changes in a location of the magnetic element relative to the Hall sensor, etc.) to detect. In particular, the Hall sensor is provided to determine an instantaneous position of the restoring element, in particular the driver element, and/or a path of the restoring element, in particular the driver element, based on the detected change in the magnetic field of the magnetic element. The magnetic element can be integrated, for example, in the restoring element and/or in the driver element. In this case, the magnetic element is preferably integrated into the restoring element and/or the driver element in such a way that a movement of the restoring element and/or the driver element causes a movement of the magnet element. Alternatively, the magnetic element can be arranged, for example, on a side of the restoring element which is opposite a side of the restoring element on which the Hall sensor is arranged. In this case, the restoring element and/or the driver element is made in part from a material that conducts magnetic flux, for example a ferromagnetic material, so that the magnetic field of the magnet unit changes depending on the instantaneous position of the restoring element and/or the driver element and/or the Path of the restoring element and / or the driver element, shaped differently, preferably differently through the restoring element and / or the driver element is passed.

It is also proposed that the sensor unit is provided to detect a transfer position of the restoring unit and/or the anchor element, in which the anchor element is transferred to the magnet unit after being reset by the restoring unit. As a result, precise status monitoring of the actuator device can advantageously be achieved. In this way, malfunctions can advantageously be detected and/or avoided. A high level of operational reliability can advantageously be achieved. In particular is the Hall sensor is provided to detect the transfer position. In particular, the transfer position is designed as the position of the restoring unit, in particular the driver element, in which the driver element has moved the anchor element into the first end position. In particular, the transfer position is designed as the position of the restoring unit, in particular the driver element, in which the driver element has a minimum vertical distance from the housing unit, in particular from the cover unit, along the circular path described by the driver element.

If the sensor unit is provided to detect an induction signal for detecting the transfer position, a simple and/or reliable detection of the transfer position can advantageously be made possible. In particular, the induction signal is in the form of an electrical signal generated by a magnetic field or by a change in a magnetic field, for example a change in the magnetic field as a result of a movement of a ferromagnetic component in a magnetic field.

In this context, it is also proposed that the sensor unit is at least partially designed in one piece with the electromagnet, in which the induction signal is generated by the armature element approaching the electromagnet, in particular by the magnetic element integrated in the armature element or fixed to the armature element and/or or another magnetic element on the electromagnet. As a result, a simple and/or reliable detection of the transfer position can advantageously be made possible. Advantageously, a transfer position can be made possible without the need for an additional sensor, such as the Hall sensor. As a result, a simple, cost-optimized and/or compact configuration of the actuator device can advantageously be achieved. The fact that two units are designed “partially in one piece” should be understood in particular to mean that the units have at least one, in particular at least have two, advantageously at least three, common elements that are a component, in particular a functionally important component, of both units.

In addition, an actuator, in particular a circuit breaker, is proposed with the fast-switching actuator device. As a result, an actuator with a particularly rapid actuating movement in at least one actuating direction, in particular with an advantageously large stroke, can advantageously be obtained.

In addition, a method with the fast-switching actuator device, in particular with the circuit breaker device, is proposed, with a clamping step in which an armature element is moved by a motor-driven reset unit into a first end position that is held stable, preferably directly, by a magnetic field, whereby at the same time a Mechanical tensioning element supported by the anchor element is tensioned, and with a first relaxation step and a second relaxation step that can be carried out as an alternative to the first relaxation step, wherein in the first relaxation step the anchor element is released from the first end position and is moved by the mechanical tensioning element into the second end position with an uncontrolled acceleration and wherein by the second relaxation step the anchor element is released from the first end position and is moved by the mechanical tensioning element to the second end position with an acceleration controlled by the restoring unit is, wherein the first relaxation step to an emergency operation of the fast-switching actuator device, in particular to trigger a safety shutdown

Circuit breaker device is provided, while the second relaxation step is provided for a regular actuation of the fast-switching actuator device, in particular for triggering an orderly shutdown of the circuit breaker device. As a result, the expansion of the mechanical actuating element can advantageously be used for a simultaneous implementation of an emergency mode with the rapid first actuating movement and a normal case mode with the controlled, slower third actuating movement. Advantageously through the additional enabling of the controlled switching process

Material protection and thus a long service life can be achieved.

The actuator device according to the invention, the actuator according to the invention and the method according to the invention should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the actuator device according to the invention, the actuator according to the invention and the method according to the invention can have a number of individual elements, components and units that differs from a number specified here in order to fulfill a functionality described herein.

drawings

Further advantages result from the following description of the drawing. In the drawings an embodiment of the invention is shown. The drawings, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations.

Show it:

1 shows a schematic side view of an actuator with a fast-acting actuator device,

2 shows a schematic view of the fast-switching actuator device with a first hidden part of a housing unit and with an anchor element which is in a first end position,

3 shows a further schematic view of the fast-acting actuator device with a second hidden part of the housing unit, with the anchor element, which is in the first end position, and with a driver element, a restoring unit, which is in a release position, 4 shows a schematic view of the fast-acting actuator device with the first hidden part of the housing unit, with a partially hidden magnet unit and with an anchor element which is in a second end position,

5 shows a schematic view of part of the fast-acting actuator device with the anchor element and with the restoring element of the restoring unit,

6 shows a schematic perspective view of the anchor element and

7 shows a schematic flowchart of a method.

Description of the embodiment

1 shows a schematic side view of an actuator 66. The actuator 66 is designed as a circuit breaker. The actuator 66 is provided to interrupt an electrical circuit 78 in at least one switching state. The circuit 78 shown as an example comprises a first contact element 80 and a second contact element 82. The circuit 78 shown as an example comprises a consumer 84 (e.g. a motor vehicle on-board network) and a voltage source 86 (e.g. a battery of a motor vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle). In the case shown as an example, the first contact element 82 is designed to be elastically resilient. The actuator 66 is provided to bend in the operating state in which the circuit 78 is interrupted, the first contact element 82 by an actuating element 56 of the actuator 66 (to press in the drawing of FIG. 1 down), so that the electrical Contact with the second contact element 82 is separated and that the voltage source 86 is separated from the consumer 84. The actuator 66 has a fast-acting actuator device 68 .

Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of the fast-switching

Actuator device 68 with partially hidden housing unit 28. The Actuator device 68 is designed as a protective switch device. The actuator device 68 has the housing unit 28 . The housing unit 28 encloses the actuator device 68 to a large extent. The housing unit 28 includes a removable cover element 90. The actuator device 68 has a mechanical tensioning element 10. The mechanical tensioning element 10 is designed as a spiral compression spring. The mechanical tensioning element 10 is supported with a first end 88 on the housing unit 28, in particular on the cover element 90, preferably on a spring seat of the housing unit 28 or the cover element 90. Alternatively, the mechanical tensioning element 10 can also be supported on a component of the actuator device 68 that is different from the cover element 90, for example on a magnetic core 100 of an electromagnet 26 of the actuator device 68 or on a magnetic flux conducting element 102 of the electromagnet 26 of the actuator device 68 a support on a hard metal component instead of on a plastic component, increased overall stability can be achieved. The mechanical tensioning element 10 is arranged entirely within the housing unit 28 . The actuator device 68 has an anchor element 12 . The armature element 12 (with the exception of the actuating element 56, which may be configured in one piece with the armature element 12) is arranged completely within the housing unit 28. The anchor element 12 is designed as an injection molded part. A second end 92 of the mechanical tensioning element 10 is supported on the anchor element 12 . The anchor element 12 can be pretensioned by the mechanical tensioning element 10, in particular in a first end position 14 (cf. FIGS. 2 and 3). The anchor element 12 is in the illustration of FIG. 2 in the first end position 14. The anchor element 12 is driven by a relaxation of the mechanical tensioning element 10 from the first end position 14 into a second end position 16 of the anchor element 12 (see FIG. 4) movable. During a first adjustment movement, the anchor element 12 moves from the first end position 14 into the second end position 16. The first adjustment movement is generated by a relaxation of the mechanical tensioning element 10. The first adjusting movement is a quick one Adjusting movement, in which a stroke 24 of at least 7 mm is swept within a maximum of 6 ms by the anchor element 12. The anchor element 12 has a guide element 54 which is provided for receiving and/or guiding the mechanical tensioning element 10 . The guide element 54 is integrally formed on the anchor element 12, the mechanical tensioning element 10, in particular the spiral compression spring, is wound around the guide element 54 in sections. The guide element 54 (or alternatively another guide element) is also provided for guiding the movement of the anchor element 12 . The actuator device 68 has a guide rod 122 . The anchor element 12 is movable along a longitudinal direction of the guide rod 122 within the housing unit 28 . The guide element 54 encloses the guide rod 122 at least in sections. The actuator device 68 has the actuating element 56 . The actuating element 56 is operatively connected to the anchor element 12 . The actuating element 56 is arranged on the anchor element 12 on a side 58 of the anchor element 12 opposite the mechanical tensioning element 10 .

The actuator device 68 has a magnet unit 18 (see in particular also FIG. 3). The magnet unit 18 is intended to hold the anchor element 12 in the first end position 14 by a magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 18 . The magnet unit 18 is completely arranged in the housing unit 28 . The magnet unit 18 is immovably fixed relative to the housing unit 28 . The magnet unit 18 is attached to the cover element 90 . Alternatively, the magnet unit 18 can also be arranged and/or attached to a component of the actuator device 68 that is different from the cover element 90 , for example to the magnet core 100 or to the magnetic flux conducting element 102 . The magnet unit 18 has the electromagnet 26 . The electromagnet 26 is arranged entirely in the housing unit 28 . The electromagnet 26 is arranged laterally next to the mechanical tensioning element 10 in relation to an expansion direction 30 of the mechanical tensioning element 10 . Of the Electromagnet 26 has a coil winding 96 (shown only schematically). The electromagnet 26 has a coil former 98 . The coil winding 96 is wound around the bobbin 98 . The electromagnet 26 has the magnetic core 100 arranged in an interior of the coil former 98 . In the activated state, ie in the energized state, the electromagnet 26 is intended to exert an attractive force on at least part of the armature element 12 in order to fix the armature element 12 in the first end position 14 . The actuator device 68 has a magnetic element 46 . The magnetic element 46 is in the form of a ferromagnetic plate, for example an iron plate. The magnetic element 46 is fixed to the anchor element 12 . The magnetic element 46 is locked in the armature element 12 by locking elements 94 of the armature element 12 . In the activated state, the electromagnet 26 is intended to exert an attractive force on the magnetic element 46 in order to fix the armature element 12 in the first end position 14 . The electromagnet 26 has the bow-shaped magnetic flux conducting element 102 which is open in the direction of the magnetic element 46 .

The actuator device 68 has a reset unit 20 . The reset unit 20 is provided to move the anchor element 12 back from the second end position 16 into the first end position 14 . The resetting unit 20 is intended to pretension the mechanical tensioning element 10 during the movement of the anchor element 12 in the direction of the second end position 16 . The second adjustment movement generated by the reset unit 20 to reset the mechanical tensioning element 10, in which the anchor element 12 moves back from the second end position 16 to the first end position 14, is at least 40 times slower than the first adjustment movement, in which the anchor element 12 driven by the mechanical tensioning element 10 from the first end position 14 to the second end position 16. A switching time of the second positioning movement is longer than 200 ms. The reset unit 20 has a reset element 22 . The restoring element 22 can be driven by a motor. The motor-driven restoring element 22 is designed as a gear wheel 36 . The gear wheel 36 has an axis of rotation 106 (cf. also FIG. 5 ) which is aligned perpendicular to a main direction of movement 108 of the anchor element 12 . The main direction of movement 108 of the anchor element 12 is parallel to the direction of expansion 30 of the mechanical tensioning element 10 . The restoring element 22 has a driver element 32 . The driver element 32 is movably mounted relative to the housing unit 28 . The driver element 32 is provided for contacting the anchor element 12 during an adjusting movement by the restoring unit 20 . The driver element 32 is arranged on a side surface 34 of the gear wheel 36 . The driver element 32 is arranged eccentrically on the side surface 34 of the gear wheel 36 . The driver element 32 follows a movement of the gear wheel 36. The driver element 32 is provided for guiding the anchor element 12 along at least 120° of a monotonous rotational movement of the gear wheel 36. The driver element 32 is intended to carry the armature element 12 along at most 170° of the monotonous rotational movement of the gear wheel 36 . The driver element 32 is designed as a type of bolt which protrudes beyond the side face 34 of the gear wheel 36 . The driver element 32 is designed as a type of bolt which protrudes in the direction of the electromagnet 26 over the side face 34 of the gear wheel 36 . The restoring element 22 has an axle element 110 . The gear wheel 36 is rotatably mounted about the axle element 110 . The axle element 110 is in turn mounted in a fixed position in/on the housing unit 28 . Alternatively, the axle element 110 can also be mounted on a component of the actuator device 68 that is different from the housing unit 28, for example on the magnetic core 100 and/or the magnetic flux conducting element 102. The driver element 32 is intended to move the armature element 12 after the armature element 12 has been carried along , by a rotational movement of the gear 36, in particular by a continuation of the entrainment generating rotational movement of the gear 36 to release. When the anchor element 12 is fixed in the first end position 14, the driver element 32, in particular the gear wheel 36, is rotated into a release position (cf. also FIG. 3).

The actuator device 68 has an electric motor 60 . The electric motor 60 is provided to generate the driving force for moving the motor-driven restoring element 22 . The electric motor 60 is arranged entirely within the housing unit 28 . The electric motor 60 has an output 104 . The output 104 has an axis of rotation 112 . The axis of rotation 112 of the output 104 and the axis of rotation 106 of the gear wheel 36 run in mutually perpendicular directions. The actuator device 68 has a worm gear 62 . The worm gear 62 is provided to transmit the driving force of the electric motor 60 to the restoring element 22 . The worm gear 62 has a gear ratio. Worm gear 62 includes a worm shaft 114. Worm gear 62 includes gear 36. Worm shaft 114 meshes with gear 36 to transmit drive power and change the orientation of the driven axis of rotation 106, 112.

The electric motor 60 is provided to generate a reverse rotation opposite to the return direction of rotation used to return the anchor element 12 from the second end position 16 to the first end position 14 . The reverse rotation of the electric motor 60, in particular of the output 104, is provided for a controlled (slow) transfer of the anchor element 12 from the first end position 14 to the second end position 16. The reverse rotation of the electric motor 60, in particular of the output 104, is provided for a transfer of the armature element 12, guided by the driver element 32, from the first end position 14 to the second end position 16. The resetting unit 20 is provided to control a third setting movement by means of the reverse rotation of the electric motor 60, as an alternative to the first setting movement running independently of the restoring unit 20, in which the anchor element 12 moves at least 40 times more slowly moved from the first end position 14 to the second end position 16 than in the case of the first adjustment movement, which runs independently of the resetting unit 20 .

The actuator device 68 has a sensor unit 64 . The sensor unit 64 is intended to detect and/or monitor a state and/or a movement of the anchor element 12 . The sensor unit 64 has a first sensor 116 . Sensor unit 64 is provided to use first sensor 1 16 to measure a motor current of electric motor 60 of restoring unit 20 to determine a restoring time of restoring unit 20, within which armature element 12 is moved from second end position 16 to first end position 14, to determine a To detect current position of the driver element 32 and / or to determine a path of the driver element 32 and / or monitor. The first sensor 116 is formed at least partially in one piece with the electric motor 60 or with a control unit (not shown) for controlling the electric motor 60 .

The sensor unit 64 has a second sensor 118 . The sensor unit 64 has a Hall sensor. The second sensor 1 18 is designed as the Hall sensor. Second sensor 118 is provided to detect and/or monitor a movement of at least part of resetting element 22 to determine the resetting time of resetting unit 20, the current position of driver element 32 and/or the path of driver element 32. In the case shown as an example, the driver element 32 is partially designed as a permanent magnet. The second sensor 1 18 is intended to detect the magnetic field of the permanent magnet of the driver element 32 and, based on the currently detected magnetic field strength and/or the currently detected magnetic field direction of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet of the driver element 32, a position and/or a movement of the driver element 32 determine.

The sensor unit 64 has a third sensor 120 (cf. FIG. 3). The third sensor 120 is intended to detect a transfer position of the return unit 20 to detect, in which the anchor element 12 is transferred to the magnet unit 18 after a reset by the reset unit 20. The third sensor 120 is provided to detect an induction signal for detecting the transfer position. It is generally conceivable that two or more than two sensors 116, 118, 120 of the sensor unit 64 are formed at least partially in one piece with one another. The third sensor 120 is formed in one piece with the electromagnet 26 . The induction signal is generated in the electromagnet 26 when the armature element 12 approaches the electromagnet 26 . A control unit (not shown) of the electromagnet 26 is provided for reading out the induction signal from the electromagnet 26 .

FIG. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of the anchor element 12. The anchor element 12 has a contact element 38. FIG. The contact element 38 is provided for absorbing a force exerted on the anchor element 12 by the driver element 32 . The contact element 38 is intended to be swept over by the driver element 32 during the second adjustment movement by the restoring unit 20 . The anchor element 12 has a first partial anchor element 40 and a second partial anchor element 42 connected to the first partial anchor element 40 . The two anchor sub-elements 40, 42 are extended plate-like for the most part. The second anchor sub-element 42 is arranged perpendicular to the first anchor sub-element 40 . The contact element 38 is arranged on the first partial armature element 40 . The contact element 38 is designed as a tab that protrudes beyond the rest of the first anchor sub-element 40 in a direction pointing toward the gear wheel 36 . The second partial anchor element 42 forms a seat 44 for supporting the mechanical tensioning element 10 . The second partial anchor element 42 has the guide element 54 . The second partial armature element 42 has the magnetic element 46 which is provided for an attractive interaction with the magnetic field of the magnet unit 18 . The second partial anchor element 42 has the latching elements 94 . The seat 44 for supporting the mechanical tensioning element 10 and the magnetic element 46 are relative to the first Anchor sub-element 40 seen on opposite sides 50, 52 of the first anchor sub-element 40 is arranged. The guide element 54 and the magnetic element 46 are arranged on opposite sides 50 , 52 of the first armature sub-element 40 as seen relative to the first armature sub-element 40 . The actuator device 68 has a reinforcement element 48 . The reinforcement element 48 is provided to support the first anchor sub-element 40 on the second anchor sub-element 42 . The reinforcement element 48 is intended to support and reinforce the first anchor sub-element 40 on the second anchor sub-element 42 on a side 50 pointing towards the seat 44 for supporting the mechanical tensioning element 10 .

7 shows a schematic flowchart of a method with the fast-switching actuator device 68. In a clamping step 70, the armature element 12 is moved by the motor-driven restoring element 22 into the first end position 14, which is held stable directly by the magnetic field. As a result, the circuit 78 secured by the actuator 66 is closed. In the clamping step 70, the mechanical clamping element 10 supported on the anchor element 12 is also clamped at the same time. In a further method step 72, the electromagnet 26 of the magnet unit 18 is activated. As a result, the anchor element 12 is held in the first end position 14 . In at least one further method step 124, the driver element 32 is removed from a movement path of the anchor element 12 by rotating the gearwheel 36 further. In a first relaxation step 74, the anchor element 12 is released from the first end position 14. In the first relaxation step 74, the electromagnet 26 is deactivated. In the first relaxation step 74, the anchor element 12 released from the first end position 14 is moved by the mechanical tensioning element 10 into the second end position 16 with an uncontrolled acceleration. In the first relaxation step 74, the anchor element 12 is moved at least 7 mm in a maximum of 6 ms. In the first relaxation step 74, the electric circuit 78 secured by the actuator 66 is opened by the movement of the anchor element 12. In the first relaxation step 74 is the Circuit 78 suddenly opened before (thermal) damage can occur or an electric shock can be triggered. The first relaxation step 74 is provided for an emergency actuation of the fast-switching actuator device 68 . In a second relaxation step 76, which is an alternative to the first relaxation step 74, the anchor element 12 is released from the first end position 14. In the second relaxation step 76, the electromagnet 26 is deactivated. In the second relaxation step 76, the anchor element 12 released from the first end position 14 is moved by the mechanical tensioning element 10 into the second end position 16 with an acceleration controlled by the restoring unit 20. In the second relaxation step 76, the anchor element 12 is moved at least 7 mm in at least 200 ms. In the second relaxation step 76, the movement of the anchor element 12 opens the circuit 78 secured by the actuator 66 in a controlled manner. The second relaxation step 76 is provided for a regular actuation of the fast-switching actuator device 68 .

Reference sign

10 Mechanical clamping element

12 anchor element

14 First end position

16 Second end position

18 magnet unit

20 reset unit

22 reset element

24 strokes

26 electromagnet

28 housing unit

30 direction of expansion

32 driver element

34 side face

36 gear

38 contact element

40 First anchor part element

42 Second anchor part element

44 seat

46 Magnetic element

48 reinforcement element

50 page

52 page

54 guide element

56 actuator

58 page

60 electric motor

62 worm gears

64 sensor unit

66 actuator actuator device

cocking step

process step

First relaxation step

Second relaxation step

circuit

First contact element

Second contact element

consumer

voltage source

First ending

cover element

second ending

locking element

coil winding

bobbin

magnetic core

magnetic flux guide

downforce

axis of rotation

main direction of movement

axis element

axis of rotation

worm shaft

First sensor

Second sensor

Third sensor

guide rod

process step

Claims

Claims Fast-switching actuator device (68), in particular a circuit breaker device, with a mechanical tensioning element (10), with an anchor element (12) that can be pretensioned by the mechanical tensioning element (10) and, driven by relaxation of the mechanical tensioning element (10), consists of at least a first end position (14) can be moved into at least a second end position (16), with a magnet unit (18) which is provided for closing the anchor element (12) in the first end position (14) by a magnetic field generated by the magnet unit (18). hold, and with a restoring unit (20) which is provided to move the anchor element (12) back at least from the second end position (16) into the first end position (14) by means of a motor-driven restoring element (22) and thereby the mechanical tensioning element ( 10) to preload. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 1, characterized in that a first adjustment movement generated by the relaxation of the mechanical tensioning element (10), in which at least the anchor element (12) moves from the first end position (14) to the second end position (16) moved, generates a stroke (24) of at least 7 mm within a maximum of 6 ms. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 2, characterized in that a second adjusting movement generated by the restoring unit (20) for restoring the mechanical tensioning element (10), during which at least the anchor element (12) moves from the second end position (16) to the first end position (14) moves much slower, preferably at least 40 times slower than the first actuating movement. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the restoring unit (20) is provided for the purpose, in particular as an alternative to the first actuating movement which runs independently of the restoring unit (20), to control a third actuating movement in which the anchor element (12 ) substantially slower, preferably at least 40 times slower, from the first end position (14) to the second end position (16) than in the case of the first adjustment movement running independently of the restoring unit (20). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnet unit (18) comprises an electromagnet (26) which, at least in the activated state, is provided for fixing the anchor element (12) in the first end position (14) to exert an attractive force on at least part of the anchor element (12). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 5, characterized by a housing unit (28) which encloses at least a large part of the electromagnet (26) and at least a large part of the armature element (12) and/or at least a large part of the mechanical tensioning element (10).

7. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the electromagnet (26) is arranged at least essentially laterally next to the mechanical clamping element (10) with respect to an expansion direction (30) of the mechanical clamping element (10).

8. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the restoring unit (20), in particular the motor-driven restoring element (22), is a movably mounted, in particular relative to a housing unit (28) of the actuator device (68). Driver element (32) for contacting the anchor element (12) during an adjusting movement by the restoring unit (20).

9. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the motor-driven restoring element (22) is designed as a gear (36).

10. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to claims 8 and 9, characterized in that the driver element (32) is arranged on a side surface (34) of the gear (36) and thus follows a movement of the gear (36).

11 . Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 10, characterized in that the driver element (32) is provided for the purpose of locking the armature element (12) to at least 120° of a monotonous rotational movement of the gear wheel (36) and/or to at most 170° of the monotonous rotational movement of the To carry gear (36). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 8 and according to one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the driver element (32) is provided for the purpose of driving the armature element (12) following entrainment by a rotational movement of the gear wheel (36), in particular by continuing the rotation of the gear (36). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to one of Claims 8 to 12, characterized in that the armature element (12) has a contact element (38), which is provided for this purpose, to absorb a force exerted on the armature element (12) by the driver element (32). to be at least partially swept over by the driver element (32) during the adjusting movement by the restoring unit (20). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 13, characterized in that the anchor element (12) has at least a first partial anchor element (40) and a second partial anchor element (42) which is connected to the first partial anchor element (40) and is at least essentially perpendicular to the first armature sub-element (40), wherein the contact element (38) is arranged on the first armature sub-element (40) and wherein the second armature sub-element (42) has at least one seat (44) for supporting the mechanical tensioning element (10) and/or at least one magnetic Element (46) which is provided for an attractive interaction with the magnetic field of the magnet unit (18). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to claim 14, characterized in that the seat (44) for supporting the mechanical tensioning element (10) and the magnetic element (46) relative to the first anchor part element (40) on opposite sides (50, 52) of the first anchor part elements (40) are arranged. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 14 or 15, characterized by at least one reinforcing element (48), by means of which the first anchor part element (40) is attached to the second anchor part element (42) at least on one of the seats (44) for supporting the mechanical tensioning element ( 10) pointing side (50) is supported and reinforced. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anchor element (12) has an integrally formed guide element (54) for receiving and/or guiding the mechanical tensioning element (10). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 17, characterized in that the mechanical tensioning element (10) is designed as a spiral spring wound at least in sections around the guide element (54). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an actuating element (56) which is at least operatively connected to the anchor element (12) and is preferably constructed in one piece and which is located on a side (58) of the anchor element (12) opposite the mechanical tensioning element (10). ) is arranged.

20. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by an electric motor (60) which is provided to generate a driving force for moving the restoring element (22). 21. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to claim 20, characterized by a worm gear (62) which is intended to transmit the driving force of the electric motor (60) to the restoring element (22).

22. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the electric motor (60) is provided to reverse rotation to a controlled, in particular guided by the driver element (32), transfer of the armature element (12) from the first To generate end position (14) in the second end position (16). 23. Fast switching actuator device (68) according to any one of the preceding

Claims, characterized by a sensor unit (64) which is provided for detecting and/or monitoring at least one state and/or movement of the anchor element (12).

Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 23, characterized in that the sensor unit (64) is provided for measuring a motor current of an electric motor (60) of the restoring unit (20) to determine a restoring time of the restoring unit (20) within which the anchor element (12 ) is moved from the second end position (16) to the first end position (14), to determine an instantaneous position of a driver element (32) of the restoring unit (20) and/or to determine a path of the driver element (32) to the restoring unit (20). detect and/or monitor. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the sensor unit (64) has a Hall sensor which is intended to detect a movement of at least part of the reset element (22) to determine the reset time of the reset unit (20) To monitor the current position of the driver element (32) and / or the path of the driver element (32). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to any one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that the sensor unit (64) is provided to detect a transfer position of the restoring unit (20) in which the anchor element (12) after being reset by the restoring unit ( 20) is transferred to the magnet unit (18). Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to claim 26, characterized in that the sensor unit (64) is provided to detect an induction signal for detecting the transfer position. Fast-switching actuator device (68) according to Claims 5 and 27, characterized in that the sensor unit (64) is at least partially designed in one piece with the electromagnet (26), in which the induction signal is generated by the armature element (12) approaching the electromagnet (26 ) is produced. Actuator (66), in particular a circuit breaker, with a fast-switching actuator device (68) according to one of the preceding claims. Method with a fast-switching actuator device (68), in particular with a circuit breaker device, in particular according to one of Claims 1 to 28. Method according to Claim 30, with a clamping step (70) in which an anchor element (12) is moved by a motor-driven restoring unit (20) is moved into a first end position (14) that is held stable, preferably directly, by a magnetic field, whereby at the same time a mechanical tensioning element (10) supported on the anchor element (12) is tensioned, and with a first relaxation step (74) and one to the first Relaxation step (74) alternatively executable second relaxation step (76), wherein in the first relaxation step (74) the anchor element (12) is released from the first end position (14) and with an uncontrolled acceleration of the mechanical tensioning element (10) into the second end position ( 16) is moved and wherein the second relaxation step (76) releases the anchor element (12) from the first end position (14). n and is moved by the mechanical clamping element (10) into the second end position (16) with an acceleration controlled by the restoring unit (20). Method according to Claim 31, characterized in that the first relaxation step (74) is provided for emergency actuation of the fast-switching actuator device (68), in particular for triggering a safety shutdown of the protective switch device, while the second relaxation step (76) is for regular actuation of the fast-switching Actuator device (68), in particular for triggering an orderly shutdown of the protective switch device, is provided.