A MAGNETIC ACTUATOR AND A GEAR SYSTEM COMPRISING THE SAME

摘要

A magnetic actuator comprises a collar element (101) and a toroidal coil (103) surrounding the collar element. The collar element is coupled in a torque transferring way to a shaft (108) surrounded by the collar element. The collar element is capable of sliding in the axial direction with respect to the shaft. The collar element comprises indentations (102) for locking in a torque transferring way to a counterpart when the collar element is in a first axial position. The collar element comprises permanent magnet material (104) for generating an axial force for moving the collar element to the first axial position when the toroidal coil carries electric current flowing in a first direction and to a second axial position when the toroidal coil carries electric current flowing in an opposite direction. Thus, no mechanical means are needed for moving the collar element in the axial direction.