Rolling element isolation element for a linear motion mechanism, rolling element isolation assembly for a linear motor slide mechanism, and linear motion slide

Abstract

This utility model relates to a rolling element isolation element for a linear motion mechanism, a rolling element isolation assembly for a linear motor sliding mechanism, and a linear motion slider. The isolation element includes contact portions on both sides, each with a concave arc surface structure; a cavity between the two contact portions for containing lubricating medium; the rolling element isolation assembly is composed of multiple rolling elements and the isolation element arranged alternately in a circulating guide channel; the isolation element is supported by its contact portions on both sides in contact with adjacent rolling elements. The linear motion slider includes a slider body, a circulating guide channel disposed on the slider body, and a rolling element isolation assembly disposed within the channel. This design not only alleviates direct compression between rolling elements and prevents damage to the isolation element, but also stores lubricating medium, allowing lubricating oil to be gradually released to the contact area during rolling, thereby reducing frictional resistance and wear, and achieving a long-term maintenance-free effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of motor sliding mechanism technology, specifically to a rolling element isolation element for a linear motion mechanism, a rolling element isolation assembly for a linear motor sliding mechanism, and a linear motion slider. Background Technology

[0002] Linear motor sliding mechanisms are widely used in high-precision linear transmission applications such as CNC machine tools, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and precision measuring instruments. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 6 As shown, its core components typically include a slider body, rolling elements 4, and corresponding circulating guide channels 3. To ensure the stable movement of the rolling elements 4 in the circulating guide channels 3 and to reduce mutual interference, existing technologies generally employ isolation structures such as retaining chains or cages to separate and guide the rolling elements 4.

[0003] However, traditional retaining chains are mostly one-piece structures, which have the following shortcomings in practical applications: First, under high-speed start-stop or high acceleration / deceleration conditions, the retaining chain is subjected to concentrated stress, making it prone to breakage, which can lead to obstruction or even jamming of the rolling elements, affecting the reliability and service life of the mechanism; Second, the retaining chain structure is relatively complex, usually requiring special design of the slider body, and there is a lack of universality between different slider models, increasing manufacturing and maintenance costs; Third, when foreign objects enter the circulation channel, the one-piece retaining chain is prone to jamming or damage, further aggravating operational failures; In addition, existing retaining chains usually only have the function of separating rolling elements, and it is difficult to take into account the functions of storing and releasing lubricant, which can easily lead to insufficient lubrication under long-term operating conditions, increasing maintenance frequency and operating noise.

[0004] Therefore, existing retaining chains or cages still have significant limitations in terms of reliability, versatility, and ease of maintenance, making it difficult to meet the requirements of linear motor sliding mechanisms for high-performance and long-life applications. For example, during use, the rolling components of these linear motor sliding mechanisms experience frictional resistance and wear. Therefore, it is necessary to research and improve linear motor sliding components; to solve the above problems, the concept of this application is proposed. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a rolling element isolation element for a linear motion mechanism, a rolling element isolation assembly for a linear motor sliding mechanism, and a linear motion slider, so as to solve the problems of frictional resistance and wear in the rolling assembly of the linear motor sliding mechanism in the prior art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a rolling element isolation element for a linear motion mechanism, the isolation element comprising: contact portions located on both sides, the contact portions having an inwardly concave arc surface structure; and a cavity disposed between the two contact portions for accommodating a lubricating medium.

[0007] Preferably, the cavity includes at least two oppositely arranged slots, each slot corresponding to a contact portion.

[0008] Preferably, the cavity is a through structure.

[0009] Preferably, the inner wall of the cavity is provided with a guide groove or a capillary groove.

[0010] Preferably, the isolation element has multiple cavities, which are distributed in the central region of the isolation element or arranged at intervals along its circumference.

[0011] Preferably, the radius of curvature of the contact portion is slightly larger than the radius of curvature of the rolling element, so that a working gap is formed between the contact portion and the rolling element.

[0012] Preferably, the isolation element further includes a liquid storage structure disposed in the circumferential region of the cavity.

[0013] Preferably, the liquid storage structure is a recessed portion, and the recessed surface of the recessed portion is an arc-shaped curved surface.

[0014] This utility model also provides a rolling element isolation assembly for a linear motor sliding mechanism, comprising: Multiple rolling elements; multiple isolation elements; wherein the rolling elements and the isolation elements are arranged alternately, and the isolation elements are supported by contact portions on both sides of their adjacent rolling elements.

[0015] This utility model also provides a linear motion slider for a linear motor sliding mechanism, comprising: a slider body; a circulating guide channel disposed on the slider body; and a rolling element isolation assembly disposed within the circulating guide channel.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: This type of isolation element for linear motor sliding mechanisms effectively overcomes the shortcomings of traditional retaining chains, which are prone to breakage during high acceleration / deceleration or when foreign objects enter, leading to abnormal rolling element circulation. Because the isolation element is an independent unit, it lacks the fragile connection structure of an integral retaining chain, thus significantly improving reliability and service life. Furthermore, by incorporating a cavity within the isolation element, direct compression between rolling elements is alleviated, preventing damage to the isolation element. It also stores lubricating medium, allowing lubricating oil to be gradually released to the contact area during rolling, thereby reducing frictional resistance and wear, achieving long-term maintenance-free operation. Further, the guide grooves or capillary grooves on the inner wall of the cavity allow the lubricating medium to seep out in a directional manner, improving lubrication efficiency and uniformity, and reducing localized dry friction.

[0017] This type of rolling element isolation assembly and linear motion slider for linear motor sliding mechanisms enables the alternating arrangement of rolling elements and isolation elements, maintaining stable positioning through clearance cooperation and ensuring smooth circulation within the circulating guide channel. This not only improves upon the uneven force distribution and failure risk inherent in traditional chain-type designs, but also allows the slider to maintain stable operation under harsh conditions such as high loads and high speeds, thus possessing wider applicability and engineering value.

[0018] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the isolation element of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the isolation element of this utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the deformed cross-sectional structure of the isolation element of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the isolation component of this utility model; Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of the isolation component and linear motion slider of this utility model in their assembly and use state; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of a linear motion slider in the prior art.

[0020] Reference numerals: 1. Isolation element; 11. Contact part; 12. Cavity; 121. Opening; 13. Liquid storage structure; 2. Isolation assembly; 3. Circulation guide channel; 4. Rolling element; 5. Linear motion slider; 100. Slider body. Detailed Implementation

[0021] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Detachable installation methods are varied, such as through plug-in and snap-fit ​​connections, or through bolt connections, etc.

[0022] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to specific embodiments. However, the implementation of the present invention is not limited thereto. The embodiments are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. For process parameters or conditions not specifically specified, conventional techniques can be referred to.

[0023] Please see Figures 1-5 As shown, a rolling element 4 isolation element 1 for a linear motion mechanism includes: contact portions 11 on both sides, each contact portion 11 having a concave arc surface structure; and a cavity 12 disposed between the two contact portions 11 for accommodating a lubricating medium. In this embodiment, the isolation element 1 is disposed as an independent unit between adjacent rolling elements 4. Its contact portions 11 on both sides have a concave arc surface structure, matching the outer surface of the rolling elements 4 for reliable contact. The cavity 12 disposed between the contact portions 11 forms a cavity capable of accommodating the lubricating medium, ensuring a continuous supply of lubricant between the rolling elements 4. The outer diameter of the isolation element 1 is smaller than the inner diameter of the circulating guide channel 3. The isolation element 1 is an independent unit disposed between adjacent rolling elements 4, thus forming a gap between the isolation element 1 and the inner wall of the circulating guide channel 3, allowing the isolation element 1 to move with the rolling elements 4 within the circulating guide channel 3. This design ensures stable spacing between the rolling elements 4, reduces mutual friction, and improves the smoothness of linear motion. Since the cavity 12 can store lubricating medium, it can continuously provide lubrication during rolling. At the same time, it can absorb the squeezing force between the rolling element 4 and the isolation element 1, thereby reducing frictional resistance and wear, ensuring the durability of the isolation element 1, and thus extending its service life and reducing energy consumption.

[0024] It should be noted that the cavity 12 can adopt different shapes and sizes to adapt to different types of lubricating media; in addition, the curvature of the contact part 11 can be adjusted according to the rolling elements 4 of different diameters to match the specific specifications of the rolling elements 4.

[0025] The cavity 12 includes at least two oppositely arranged slots 121, each slot 121 corresponding to a contact portion 11. In this embodiment, the cavity 12 of the isolation element is configured to include at least two oppositely arranged slots 121. These slots 121, as the main components of the cavity 12, are located on both sides of the isolation element 1, and the position of each slot 121 directly corresponds to a contact portion 121. This design ensures that the back surface area of ​​each contact portion 121 corresponds to an independent oil storage and guiding space, allowing the lubricating medium to serve its corresponding rolling element 4 contact interface more concentratedly and directly.

[0026] The cavity 12 enables the lubricating medium to be precisely supplied to each contact point requiring lubrication, improving lubrication efficiency and economic efficiency. At the same time, the relatively arranged slots 121 maintain structural balance, avoiding uneven wear caused by uneven distribution of the lubricating medium, and further ensuring the stability of the isolation element 1 during operation.

[0027] It should be noted that the number of slots is not limited to two. For example, in a complex isolation element 1 with multiple contact portions 11, three or more slots can be provided. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the slots is preferably arc-shaped, but it can also be V-shaped or rectangular to accommodate different flow guidance requirements and processing techniques. In addition, the slots can be completely independent, or they can be connected at their roots through a tiny connecting hole, allowing for slight mutual exchange of lubricating media while maintaining the functional independence of each slot.

[0028] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cavity 12 is a through structure. In this embodiment, the cavity 12 with the through structure means that the cavity 12 passes through the middle of the isolation element 1. That is, the two oppositely arranged slots 121 are connected, which enables the lubricating medium to be distributed quickly. However, the cavity 12 with the through structure is conducive to the distribution of the lubricating medium on both sides of the isolation element 1, which is suitable for long-stroke and high-speed motion conditions.

[0029] Preferably, the inner wall of the cavity 12 is provided with a guide groove or capillary groove to guide the lubricating medium in the cavity to seep out to the contact area 11. In this embodiment, the inner wall of the cavity 12 is machined with fine guide grooves. The lubricating medium slowly seeps out along the guide grooves under capillary action, thereby automatically delivering it to the contact area 11 to provide lubrication for the rolling element 4. However, this structure can achieve self-lubrication without external oil supply, greatly improving the reliability of operation and the convenience of maintenance. It should be noted that the guide groove can be a straight groove, a spiral groove, or a microporous structure, and the specific shape and size can be optimized according to the type of lubricant.

[0030] Furthermore, the outline of the cavity 12 can be circular, elliptical, oblong, or polygonal. In this embodiment, the cavity 12 is preferably designed as circular to increase the liquid storage volume and improve lubricant flowability within a limited space. An elliptical shape can also be used to improve the lubricant's flow efficiency to the contact area 11. However, different outline shapes are advantageous for adapting to different lubrication characteristics: a circular shape is easier to process and facilitates increasing the liquid storage capacity, while oblong or polygonal structures can increase the uniformity of lubricant distribution. It should be noted that the specific shape can be selected according to the size of the rolling element 4 and the viscosity of the lubricant; for example, a polygonal structure is more conducive to enhancing structural stability.

[0031] The isolation element 1 has multiple cavities 12, which are distributed in the central region of the isolation element 1 or spaced apart along its circumference. In this embodiment, the isolation element 1 has multiple cavities 12 symmetrically arranged in its central region, or distributed at equal angles along the circumference, thereby achieving uniform oil supply during the rotation or movement of the isolation element 1. Furthermore, the multiple cavities 12 improve the uniformity of the lubricating medium distribution, further reduce frictional resistance, and prevent wear caused by localized oil shortage. It should be noted that the number and distribution of the cavities 12 can be adjusted according to the cross-sectional size of the circulation guide channel 3, such as by setting two opposing through holes or three to four circumferentially distributed small holes.

[0032] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the radius of curvature of the contact portion 11 is slightly larger than that of the rolling element 4, so that a working gap is formed between the contact portion 11 and the rolling element 4. In this embodiment, by setting the radius of curvature of the contact portion 11 to be larger than that of the rolling element 4, when the rolling element 4 is placed between the two contact portions 11, a working gap is naturally formed around the rolling element 4 in a circumferential arrangement between the contour surface of the contact portion 11 and the outer surface of the rolling element 4. The core function of this working gap is to compensate for changes caused by two factors: first, to compensate for dimensional tolerances in the manufacturing process of the rolling element 4; second, to compensate for the slight plastic deformation that the rolling element 4 may undergo under long-term high-load operation of the linear motion slider 5. This means that even if there are slight machining deviations in the diameter of the rolling element 4 or slight deformation during use, this working gap can ensure the proper fit between the isolation element 1 and the rolling element 4, ensuring both wear resistance and strength. It should be noted that, in a preferred embodiment, the contact portion 11 can be precision machined and polished to further improve the fit.

[0033] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the isolation element 1 also includes a liquid storage structure 13, which is disposed in the circumferential region of the cavity 12 to accommodate the lubricating medium. In this embodiment, the circumferential region of the cavity 12 of the isolation element 1 forms a groove-type liquid storage structure 13, further increasing the storage space for the lubricating medium. However, the liquid storage structure 13 can also serve as a secondary lubrication pool, continuously replenishing the lubricant to the guide channel even when the lubricant in the cavity 12 is depleted. It should be noted that the liquid storage structure 13 can be an annular groove, a segmented groove, or a multi-point distributed cavity to adapt to different operating conditions.

[0034] The liquid storage structure 13 is a recessed portion, and the recessed surface of the recessed portion is an arc-shaped curved surface; thereby increasing the volume of the recessed portion and facilitating lubricant concentration. The arc-shaped curved surface design can avoid stress concentration when the rolling element 4 contacts and the isolation element 1 moves, improve structural strength, and optimize lubricant distribution.

[0035] In this embodiment, the liquid storage structure 13 is specifically formed by machining a recessed portion on the body of the isolation element 1. This recessed portion can be a groove. The recessed surface of the groove is the arc-shaped surface, which smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the isolation element 1. Before assembly, grease can be filled into the recessed portion of the cavity 12. When the isolation element 1 moves with the rolling element 4 within the circulation guide channel 3, these recessed portions act as additional oil storage units, storing more lubricating medium. During operation, due to vibration and temperature changes, the grease stored in the recessed portions can slowly and continuously seep out, supplementing lubrication to the contact area of ​​the adjacent rolling element 4, thereby maintaining a more stable lubrication effect throughout its lifespan. The hemispherical arc-shaped surface structure ensures smooth flow of the lubricating medium while avoiding stress concentration, reducing the resistance of the isolation element 1 itself when moving within the circulation guide channel 3, and helping to reduce noise and wear of the entire linear motion mechanism.

[0036] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and 4 As shown, this utility model also provides a rolling element isolation assembly 2 for a linear motor sliding mechanism, comprising: a plurality of rolling elements 4; a plurality of isolation elements 1; wherein the rolling elements 4 and the isolation elements 1 are arranged alternately in a circulating guide channel 3, and the isolation elements 1 are supported by contact portions 11 on both sides of their adjacent rolling elements 4 in contact to maintain the positioning of the isolation elements 1 in the circulating guide channel 3.

[0037] In this embodiment, multiple rolling elements 4 and isolating elements 1 are alternately arranged in the circulating guide channel 3, forming an orderly arrangement. The contact portions 11 on both sides of the isolating element 1 are in contact with the rolling elements 4, thereby keeping the isolating element 1 stably positioned within the channel. When the rolling elements 4 circulate within the channel, the isolating element 1 can move synchronously. Furthermore, the design of this rolling element isolating assembly 2 effectively avoids direct collisions between the rolling elements 4, reducing noise and wear, and improving the smoothness of linear motion. It should be noted that the rolling elements 4 can be steel balls, ceramic balls, or other high-strength rolling components, and the isolating element 1 can be made of engineering plastics or metal materials to adapt to different working conditions.

[0038] Please see Figure 5 As shown, this utility model also provides a linear motion slider 5 for a linear motor sliding mechanism, comprising: a slider body 100; a circulating guide channel 3 disposed on the slider body 100; and a rolling element isolation assembly 2 disposed within the circulating guide channel 3. In this embodiment, the slider body 100 is provided with a circulating guide channel 3, and the rolling element isolation assembly 2 is arranged in the circulating guide channel 3. The rolling elements 4 and the isolation element 1 in this assembly are arranged alternately, which not only ensures rolling smoothness but also serves to store and distribute lubricant. During the operation of the linear motion slider 5, frictional resistance is reduced, motion stability is improved, and the lubrication cycle is extended, thereby improving the overall working reliability. It should be noted that the slider body 100 can be made of metal, composite material, or ceramic material according to different application environments, and the shape and size of the circulating guide channel 3 can be adjusted according to load requirements.

[0039] Please see Figures 1-5As shown, in practical use, multiple rolling elements 4 and multiple isolation elements 1 are first arranged alternately in the circulation guide channel 3 of the slider body 100 to form a rolling element isolation assembly 2. Since the outer dimensions of the isolation element 1 are smaller than the cross-sectional dimensions of the circulation guide channel 3, the isolation element 1 can move together with the rolling elements 4 in the channel. At the same time, the contact portions 11 on both sides of the isolation element 1 are tightly fitted with the surfaces of the adjacent rolling elements 4 to achieve radial support and positioning. When the linear motor drives the slider body 100 to make linear reciprocating motion along the guide rail, the rolling elements 4 circulate in the circulation guide channel 3, and the isolation element 1 moves synchronously under the drive of the rolling elements 4. The cavity 12 in the middle of the isolation element 1 serves as a cavity to contain the lubricating medium, and through the guide grooves or capillary grooves on its inner wall, the lubricating medium is slowly guided to the contact portion 11 area, thereby forming a continuous lubricating film between the rolling elements 4 and the contact portion 11. For the isolation element 1 with a liquid storage structure 13, the lubricating medium in the liquid storage structure 13 can be gradually replenished to the cavity 12 to ensure stable lubrication during long-term operation. With the alternating arrangement of rolling elements 4 and isolating element 1, direct collisions between the rolling elements 4 are prevented, reducing noise and wear and ensuring smooth motion. The contact portion 11 matches the curvature of the rolling elements 4, reducing frictional resistance and improving energy efficiency and lifespan. As the entire slider runs in the circulating guide channel 3, the isolating element 1 performs multiple functions of lubrication, spacing, and positioning, enabling the linear motion mechanism to maintain stable and reliable performance under high-speed, long-stroke, or high-load conditions.

[0040] The foregoing, in conjunction with the embodiments and accompanying drawings, has clearly and completely described the concept, specific structure, and technical effects of this utility model, so as to fully understand the purpose, features, and effects of this utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, not all of them. Other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this utility model without creative effort are all within the scope of protection of this utility model. Furthermore, all connections / linkages mentioned herein do not simply refer to direct contact between components, but rather to the ability to form a better connection structure by adding or reducing connecting accessories according to specific implementation conditions.

[0041] The above description of the specific embodiments of this utility model is only used to further illustrate this utility model and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. Any non-essential improvements and adjustments made to this utility model by technical engineers in the art based on the above description of the utility model shall fall within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A rolling element isolation element for a linear motion mechanism, characterized in that: The isolation element includes: The contact portions are located on both sides, and the contact portions have an inwardly concave arc surface structure; A cavity disposed between the two contact portions is used to contain a lubricating medium.

2. The isolation element according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cavity includes at least two oppositely arranged slots, each slot corresponding to a contact portion.

3. The isolation element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The cavity is a through structure.

4. The isolation element according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner wall of the cavity is provided with a flow guide groove or a capillary groove.

5. The isolation element according to claim 1, characterized in that: The isolation element has multiple cavities, which are distributed in the central region of the isolation element or arranged at intervals along its circumference.

6. The isolation element according to claim 1, characterized in that: The radius of curvature of the contact portion is slightly larger than the radius of curvature of the rolling element, so that a working gap is formed between the contact portion and the rolling element.

7. The isolation element according to claim 1, characterized in that: The isolation element also includes a liquid storage structure disposed in the circumferential region of the cavity.

8. The isolation element according to claim 7, characterized in that: The liquid storage structure is a recessed portion, and the recessed surface of the recessed portion is an arc-shaped curved surface.

9. A rolling element isolation assembly for a linear motor sliding mechanism, characterized in that, include: Multiple rolling elements; Multiple isolation elements as described in claim 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8; The rolling elements and the isolation elements are arranged alternately, and the isolation elements are supported by contact portions on both sides of their adjacent rolling elements.

10. A linear motion slider for a linear motor sliding mechanism, characterized in that, include: Slider body; A circulation guide channel is provided on the slider body; The rolling element isolation assembly as described in claim 9 is disposed within the circulating guide channel.

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