Linear motor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a linear motor, and by installing a sealed module, good sealing is ensured when the movable element travels along the stator rail, making it difficult for fine dust from the outside to enter the sealed space, and thus not affecting the operating accuracy or stability performance of the linear motor. Since the lubrication module is in communication with the sealed space, it is effectively lubricated during the operation of the linear motor, thereby further improving the operating accuracy and stability performance of the linear motor. The ball return end cover and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the ball, and the ball holding plate is fitted with the movable element via a positioning surface, thereby improving the mounting accuracy of the ball holding plate. Furthermore, contact surfaces 51 that restrict the ball are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface, so that two parallel circulation paths can be used with a single ball holding plate, eliminating the need to increase the number of ball holding plates and improving the operating accuracy and stability performance of the linear motor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of a stroke driving device, and particularly to a linear motor.

Background Art

[0002] A linear motor is a transmission device that directly converts electrical energy into mechanical energy of linear motion without passing through an intermediate conversion mechanism. A linear motor can be regarded as a rotary motor cut in the radial direction and unfolded in a planar shape. A linear motor is also called a linear motor, a linear actuator, or a push rod motor, and the most common types are flat plate type, U-channel type, and tube type.

[0003] A ball retainer is a structure for maintaining the movement of balls along a set track and smooth rolling in a ball screw type linear motor. In a conventional ball screw type linear motor, in order to ensure good stroke accuracy and stable performance, it is often necessary to provide at least two parallel ball circulation passages. In order to maintain the contact between the balls and the track, usually, the number of ball retainers corresponding to the number of ball circulation passages is often arranged. However, due to certain machining accuracy and mounting deviation in the ball retainer itself, when a plurality of ball retainers are mounted, the influence on the linear motor becomes more significant, leading to a decrease in the operating accuracy and stable performance of the linear motor.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In order to solve the drawback that a plurality of ball retainers cause a decrease in the operating accuracy and stable performance of a linear motor, the present invention proposes a linear motor.

[0005] The technical solution adopted by the present invention is a linear motor comprising a stator rail and a mover slidably fitted to the stator rail, A sealed module provided on a movable element and slidably sealed on a stator rail, wherein the movable element, stator rail, and sealed module together enclose a sealed space, Ball return end covers are provided at both ends of the movable element, each of the ball return end covers is provided with a ball return passage, and the ball return passage and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the ball, A lubrication module provided in a linear motor and communicating with a sealed space, The present invention further comprises a ball retaining plate having a positioning surface that engages with a movable element, wherein the ball retaining plate is provided with contact surfaces that restrict the ball on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface.

[0006] Preferably, the positioning surface has strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions provided along the sliding direction of the movable element, the movable element is provided with a fitting portion, and the fitting portion and the strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions of the positioning surface form a fitting structure.

[0007] Preferably, the movable element and the ball retaining plate cooperate to form a first slide rail having contact notches, the contact notches being opened along the sliding direction of the movable element, the balls being confined within the first slide rail, and a portion of each ball passing through the contact notches and contacting the stator rail.

[0008] Preferably, the ball-holding plate is configured symmetrically vertically, and the contact notches are provided symmetrically along the plane of symmetry of the ball-holding plate.

[0009] Preferably, the contact notch located on the upper side of the positioning surface has its opening direction oriented diagonally upward, and the contact notch located on the lower side of the positioning surface has its opening direction oriented diagonally downward.

[0010] Preferably, the upper or lower half of the ball on the side closest to the stator rail is in contact with the stator rail.

[0011] Preferably, the ball return passage has a first direction change port and a second direction change port, and the ball return end cover is provided with an oil passage that communicates with the outside, and the oil passage communicates with the ball return passage.

[0012] Preferably, the ball return passage is provided with a recessed groove structure that is recessed inward from the ball return passage, and the recessed groove structure is provided along the direction of the ball return path of the ball return passage.

[0013] Preferably, the sealing module comprises a first sealing unit, the movable element being connected to the first sealing unit which makes sealing contact with the stator rail, the first sealing unit extending to both ends along the sliding direction of the movable element and in contact with both ends of the movable element, and a sealed space being formed by the movable element, the first sealing unit and the stator rail.

[0014] Preferably, the lubrication module comprises an oil box, an oil guide component, and a lubrication unit, wherein the linear motor is connected to an oil box having an oil storage chamber, an oil guide component is provided in the oil storage chamber, the oil guide component comprises a buffer surface and an oil guide end extending from the buffer surface to the opposite side, and the oil guide component is connected to a lubrication unit for lubricating the linear motor.

[0015] Compared to conventional technology, the present invention has the following beneficial effects.

[0016] This application discloses a linear motor comprising a stator rail and a movable element slidably fitted to the stator rail, wherein the linear motor comprises a sealed module provided on the movable element and slidably sealed to the stator rail, the sealed module comprising the movable element, the stator rail and the sealed module together enclosing a sealed space, Ball return end covers are provided at both ends of the movable element, each of the ball return end covers is provided with a ball return passage, and the ball return passage and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the ball, A lubrication module provided in a linear motor and communicating with a sealed space, The invention further comprises a ball-holding plate having a positioning surface that engages with a movable element, wherein contact surfaces that restrict the ball are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface. The installation of the sealing module ensures good sealing when the movable element travels along the stator rail, making it difficult for fine dust from the outside to enter the sealed space, and thus does not affect the operating accuracy or stability performance of the linear motor. Since the lubrication module is in communication with the sealed space, it is effectively lubricated during the operation of the linear motor, thereby further improving the operating accuracy and stability performance of the linear motor. The ball return end cover and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the ball, and the ball-holding plate engages with the movable element via the positioning surface, thereby improving the mounting accuracy of the ball-holding plate. Furthermore, contact surfaces 51 that restrict the ball are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface, so that two parallel-arranged circulation paths can be used with a single ball-holding plate, eliminating the need to increase the number of ball-holding plates and improving the operating accuracy and stability performance of the linear motor. Compared with the prior art, the linear motor disclosed in this application can achieve the objective of improving the operating accuracy and stability performance of the linear motor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to examples and drawings. [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a linear motor provided by an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the oil guide component of a linear motor. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a linear motor. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the movable element (excluding some structural elements) of a linear motor. [Figure 5]It is an enlarged view of the A region of the linear motor provided by FIG. 4. [Figure 6] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure in a state where the oil guide parts and the lubrication unit are removed from the mover of the linear motor provided by FIG. 4. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the mover of the linear motor provided by an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the ball holding plate of the linear motor provided by FIG. 7. [Figure 9] It is a side view of the linear motor provided by FIG. 7. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the ball return end cover of the linear motor provided by an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the ball return end cover provided by FIG. 10 as viewed from different directions. [Figure 12] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the ball return plate of the ball return end cover provided by FIG. 10. [Figure 13] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the ball return plate of the ball return end cover provided by FIG. 12 as viewed from different directions. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the end cover plate of the ball return end cover provided by FIG. 10. [Figure 15] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the stator of the linear motor provided by an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the linear motor (in a state where the second sealing unit on the left side and a part of the structure are removed) provided by an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] It is a right side view of the linear motor with a stator rail according to FIG. 16. [Figure 18] It is an enlarged view of the B region of the linear motor provided by FIG. 16. [Figure 19] It is an enlarged view of the C region of the linear motor provided by FIG. 17. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] To further clarify the object, technical solution, and advantages of the present invention, embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the drawings, and throughout the drawings, identical or similar reference numerals represent identical or similar components, or components having identical or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are illustrative and used solely to illustrate the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0019] The present invention discloses a linear motor, with reference to Figures 1, 7 to 9, comprising a stator rail 10 and a movable element 20 slidably fitted to the stator rail 10, A sealing module 30 provided on the movable element 20 and slidably sealed to the stator rail 10, wherein the movable element 20, the stator rail 10 and the sealing module 30 together enclose a sealed space, Ball return end covers 60 are provided at both ends of the movable element 20, each of the ball return end covers 60 is equipped with a ball return passage 61, and the ball return passage 61 and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the ball, A lubrication module 40 is provided on the linear motor and communicates with a sealed space, The ball retaining plate 50 further comprises a ball retaining plate 50 having a positioning surface 52 that engages with a movable element 20, wherein contact surfaces 51 that restrict the ball are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface 52.

[0020] The installation of the sealing module 30 ensures good sealing when the movable element 20 travels along the stator rail 10, making it difficult for fine dust from the outside to enter the sealed space, thus not affecting the operating accuracy or stability of the linear motor. Since the lubrication module 40 is in communication with the sealed space, it is effectively lubricated during the operation of the linear motor, thereby further improving the operating accuracy and stability of the linear motor. The ball return end cover 60 and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the balls, and the ball holding plate 50 is fitted with the movable element 20 via the positioning surface 52, thereby improving the mounting accuracy of the ball holding plate 50. Furthermore, contact surfaces 51 that restrict the balls are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface 52, so that two parallel circulation paths can be used with one ball holding plate 50, eliminating the need to increase the number of ball holding plates 50, and improving the operating accuracy and stability of the linear motor. Compared with the prior art, the linear motor disclosed in this application can achieve the objective of improving the operating accuracy and stability of the linear motor.

[0021] Furthermore, the sealing module 30 prevents foreign matter such as fine dust and oil from entering the linear motor by isolating the movable element 20 from the external environment, the lubrication module 40 reduces friction between the movable element 20 and the stator rail 10 by lubricating them with lubricating oil or other lubricating substances, thereby improving operational accuracy and stability, and the ball holding plate 50 improves the operational accuracy and stability of the linear motor by changing its structure and the assembly configuration with the movable element 20. By optimizing the linear motor from multiple perspectives from different technical viewpoints, it exhibits a synergistic effect rather than merely the additive effect of individual improvements, and as a result of demonstration tests, it has achieved superior operational accuracy and stability.

[0022] Here, since the ball retaining plate 50 is a component that is in close contact with the ball, its mounting accuracy greatly affects the operational accuracy of the linear motor. Even a slight displacement or tilt of the ball retaining plate 50 can have a serious adverse effect on the coefficient of friction between the ball and the stator rail 10. Therefore, improving the mounting accuracy of the ball retaining plate 50 is extremely important. In this application, mounting accuracy is improved by providing a positioning surface 52 on the ball retaining plate 50 that engages with the movable element 20. The shape of the positioning surface 52 can be any shape that reliably obtains the positioning effect of the ball retaining plate 50, thereby achieving an excellent positioning effect for the ball.

[0023] Furthermore, contact surfaces 51 are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface 52 of the ball retaining plate 50. These contact surfaces 51 on both the upper and lower sides allow, firstly, a single ball retaining plate 50 to achieve ball limiting functions on both the upper and lower sides. This eliminates the need to provide a separate ball retaining plate 50 for each circulation path, preventing a decrease in the operational accuracy of the linear motor caused by machining accuracy errors and mounting deviations associated with multiple ball retainers. Secondly, the positioning of the balls on both sides of the ball retaining plate 50 provides support to the ball retaining plate 50, making deformation and deflection of the ball retaining plate 50 itself less likely. Thirdly, because the balls are positioned on both sides of the ball retaining plate 50, a substantially double guide structure is formed when the ball retaining plate 50 is attached to the stator rail 10, further improving the limiting effect on the movable element 20. Furthermore, when vibration occurs in the movable element 20, the balls at both the upper and lower ends generate minute vibrations in conjunction with the ball-holding plate 50. However, because the ball-holding plate 50 has balls at both the upper and lower ends, the inertia required for its oscillation is also increased, making it less prone to vibration. As a result, the stability and operational accuracy of the linear motor are improved.

[0024] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 7 to 9, the positioning surface 52 has strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions 53 provided along the sliding direction of the movable element 20, the movable element 20 is provided with a fitting portion, and the fitting portion and the strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions 53 of the positioning surface 52 form a fitting structure.

[0025] Specifically, the positioning surface 52 has strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions 53 provided along the sliding direction of the movable element 20. By engaging the strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions 53 with the fitting portion provided on the movable element 20, the strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions 53 have a wider area of ​​mutual engagement compared to other shapes, resulting in higher structural strength. Furthermore, they effectively prevent tilting and displacement of the ball holding plate 50, reliably suppressing adverse effects on the operational accuracy of the linear motor. The positioning surface 52 can be provided with both strip-shaped recesses and strip-shaped protrusions 53, thereby preventing misalignment when engaging with the fitting portion and providing a foolproof function.

[0026] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 7 to 9, the movable element 20 and the ball holding plate 50 cooperate to form a first slide rail having contact notches 22, the contact notches 22 are opened along the sliding direction of the movable element 20, the balls are confined within the first slide rail, and a portion of each ball passes through the contact notches 22 and contacts the stator rail 10.

[0027] Furthermore, both the movable element 20 and the ball retaining plate 50 form a first slide rail having contact notches 22. The contact notches 22 are opened along the sliding direction of the movable element 20, and the balls can move by contacting the stator rail 10 through the contact notches 22, thereby allowing the movable element 20 to operate on the stator rail 10. By using the ball retaining plate 50 as part of the first slide rail, the assembly of the balls to the movable element 20 becomes easier, and the volume of the movable element 20 can be effectively reduced, thereby enabling miniaturization of the linear motor.

[0028] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 7 to 9, the ball-holding plate 50 is configured symmetrically vertically, and the contact notches 22 are provided symmetrically along the plane of symmetry of the ball-holding plate 50.

[0029] Specifically, the ball retaining plate 50 is configured symmetrically vertically, which provides higher structural strength and prevents variations in operational accuracy caused by asymmetry of the ball retaining plate 50 when the linear motor is used in different orientations. Furthermore, the contact notches 22 are provided symmetrically along the symmetrical plane of the ball retaining plate 50, and these symmetrically provided contact notches 22 can stabilize contact between the ball and the stator rail 10, resulting in further improved operational stability.

[0030] In some more specific embodiments, referring to Figures 7 to 9, the contact notches 22 located on the upper side of the positioning surface 52 have their openings directed diagonally upward, and the contact notches 22 located on the lower side of the positioning surface 52 have their openings directed diagonally downward.

[0031] Furthermore, the contact notch 22 located on the upper side of the positioning surface 52 has its opening direction oriented diagonally upward, and the contact notch 22 located on the lower side of the positioning surface 52 has its opening direction oriented diagonally upward. This arrangement causes the balls on both the upper and lower sides to form a figure-eight shape when they contact the stator rail 10, thereby allowing the movable element 20 to be stably mounted on the stator rail 10, reducing vibration and oscillation, and improving stability. As a result, the accuracy of the linear motor's operation is improved, and its stability is enhanced.

[0032] Preferably, the shape of the contact point between the stator rail 10 and the ball corresponds to the shape of the ball. This allows for higher operational stability.

[0033] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 7 to 9, the upper or lower half of the ball on the side adjacent to the stator rail 10 is in contact with the stator rail 10.

[0034] It should be noted that the upper or lower half of the ball on the side closest to the stator rail 10 will be in contact with the stator rail 10, thereby reducing the overall dimensions of the linear motor and improving the stability performance of the ball during motion.

[0035] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 7 to 9, the ball retaining plate 50 has mounting holes 54 and is connected to the movable element 20 via the mounting holes 54. This results in a more robust and stable structure.

[0036] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, a second fitting surface 55 having the same shape as the stator rail 10 is provided on the opposite side of the positioning surface 52. This enhances the shape of the ball retaining plate 50 and strengthens the fit between the movable element 20 and the stator rail 10.

[0037] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, the end of the ball retaining plate 50 is in contact with the ball return end cover 60. This provides better sealing performance.

[0038] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 10 to 15, the ball return passage 61 has a first direction change port 62 and a second direction change port 63, and the ball return end cover 60 is provided with an oil passage 64 that communicates with the outside, and the oil passage 64 communicates with the ball return passage 61.

[0039] The end cover body 601 has a ball return passage 61, through which the balls enter / exit from the first direction change opening 62 and exit / enter from the second direction change opening 63. Furthermore, by providing an oil passage 64 in the end cover body 601 and connecting it to the ball return passage 61, lubricating oil is supplied directly to the inside of the ball circulation rail on the movable element 20, providing excellent lubrication to the balls. At the same time, the lubricating oil also provides excellent lubrication to the ball return passage 61, thereby enabling smoother ball return by the ball return end cover 60.

[0040] Furthermore, the ball return end cover 60 is the part that comes into the closest contact with the balls compared to other structural parts on the movable element 20, resulting in a larger contact area with the balls. Additionally, the rotational motion generated by the balls in the ball return end cover 60 is more abundant than the rotational motion generated at other locations. Therefore, by providing an oil passage 64 in the ball return end cover 60, a better lubrication effect for the balls can be achieved. Moreover, because the ball return end cover 60 comes into the closest contact with the balls, the balls are extremely prone to clogging in it. By providing an oil passage 64 in the ball return end cover 60 and connecting it to the ball return passage 61, an excellent lubrication effect is also achieved for the ball return passage 61, thereby making the ball return operation of the ball return end cover 60 even smoother.

[0041] Furthermore, since the oil passage 64 is provided in the end cover body 601, there is no need to place the oil passage 64 in any other additional lubrication structure, and the end cover body 601 has a lubrication function in addition to the conventional ball circulation function. On the other hand, this application does not require the addition of any other lubrication structure, and by using the ball return end cover 60 disclosed in this application, the size can be reduced and the overall structure can be made more compact.

[0042] Specifically, in this embodiment, the specific position of the oil passage 64 located in the ball return passage 61 is not particularly limited. The oil passage 64 may communicate with the middle part of the ball return passage 61, or with either side of the middle part of the ball return passage 61, or it may communicate with the first direction change port 62 or the second direction change port 63. This allows for lubrication of the ball and the ball return passage 61. Furthermore, the lubricating oil held on the ball surface can exert a lubricating effect on that position even when the ball moves to another position.

[0043] Herein, this application does not limit the shape of the end cover body 601, and the shape of the end cover body 601 shown in the drawings of this application is merely one embodiment within this application. In other embodiments, the shape of the end cover body 601 can be a centrally symmetric figure, thereby allowing both sides of the end cover body 601 to be connected to other structures such as the movable element 20. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the shape and size of the first direction change opening 62 and the second direction change opening 63 can be the same and arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the end cover body 601, thereby allowing the operator to freely select and install either the first direction change opening 62 or the second direction change opening 63 to be close to the stator rail 10, or to freely select the vertical position of the first direction change opening 62 and the second direction change opening 63. At least one ball return passage 61 is provided, and the number of first direction change openings 62 and the number of second direction change openings 63 both correspond to the number of ball return passages 61.

[0044] Furthermore, the oil passage 64 can be provided inside the end cover body 601 and sealed from the external structure by the form of a slot 314 to form the oil passage 64. Part of the oil passage 64 may be located inside the end cover body 601, and the other part may be provided by the form of a slot 314. In some embodiments, when the oil passage 64 transitions from a passage provided inside the end cover body 601 to the form of a slot 314, it is connected via a communication port 643, thereby allowing the lubricating oil to flow sequentially through the internal passage, the communication port 643, and the slot 314 into the ball return passage 61.

[0045] Specifically, as a communication structure between the oil passage 64 and the outside, either a structure in which piping is connected to the external communication point and lubricating oil is introduced into the oil passage 64 through the piping, or a structure in which an oil box 41 for storing lubricating oil is provided at the external communication point and lubricating oil flows from the oil box 41 into the oil passage 64 can be adopted, thereby achieving a lubricating effect. In other embodiments, an oil-impregnating material for storing lubricating oil may be provided in the oil passage 64, and while the movable element 20 is moving, the lubricating oil on the oil-impregnating material is applied to the action ball to achieve lubrication, and after the lubricating oil on the oil-impregnating material is used up, it is necessary to replenish the lubricating oil from the external communication point. Of course, other structures in which lubricating oil is introduced into the oil passage 64 from the outside can also be adopted.

[0046] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 10 to 14, the oil passage 64 is connected to the position of the first direction change port 62.

[0047] Specifically, when the oil passage 64 is in communication with the position of the first direction change port 62, one of the two direction change ports in this embodiment that is in communication with the oil passage 64 is designated as the first direction change port 62, and the other as the second direction change port 63. By positioning the oil passage 64 at the first direction change port 62, the ball can obtain more lubrication opportunities as it moves through the ball return passage 61, and can be lubricated from the moment it enters the ball return passage 61, thus exhibiting a superior lubrication effect. Furthermore, since the movable element 20 can reciprocate on the stator rail 10, there is always an opportunity for the ball to enter from the first direction change port 62 and exit from the second direction change port 63.

[0048] Here, the position of the first direction change port can be a slot 314 provided in the first direction change port 62, a through hole for communication with the oil passage 64 provided in the side wall of the first direction change port 62, or a lubrication ring provided in the circumferential direction of the first direction change port 62, thereby enabling communication between the oil passage 64 and the first direction change port 62. It should be understood that the position of the first direction change port 62 or the position of the second direction change port 63 refers to a part of the area adjacent to the ball entrance and exit, and not simply to the ball entrance and exit itself.

[0049] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 10 to 14, the first direction change port 62 and the second direction change port 63 are arranged horizontally, with the first direction change port 62 positioned away from the stator rail 10 and the second direction change port 63 positioned close to the stator rail 10. This allows the balls to slidably contact the stator rail 10 immediately after being lubricated with lubricating oil, thus allowing more lubricating oil to be supplied to the stator rail 10 and ensuring the balls are well lubricated within the ball return passage 61. From these two aspects, the ball return end cover 60 exhibits a better lubrication effect on the linear motor, the return operation of the ball return end cover 60 can be performed more smoothly, and the operating accuracy of the linear motor is improved.

[0050] In other embodiments, the first direction change port 62 and the second direction change port 63 are arranged horizontally, with the first direction change port 62 positioned close to the stator rail 10 and the second direction change port 63 positioned away from the stator rail 10. This allows the ball to contact the stator rail 10 immediately after being lubricated by the first direction change port 62, supplying more lubricant to the stator rail 10, and as a result, the stator rail 10 can be lubricated uniformly in this embodiment.

[0051] Here, when lubricating the balls, each ball is lubricated uniformly, preventing uneven lubrication. As a result, when the balls contact the stator rail 10, the stator rail 10 also receives a more uniform lubrication effect.

[0052] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 10 to 14, the oil passage 64 is a slot 314 provided on the surface of the end cover body 601 and extending to the first direction change port 62, and the slot 314 is arranged to be sealed with the external structure to form the oil passage 64.

[0053] Specifically, the oil passage 64 is a slot 314 provided on the surface of the end cover and extending to the first direction change port 62. The slot 314, in combination with the external structure, can form a sealed oil passage 64. The design of the slot 314 reduces the difficulty of machining the oil passage 64 in the end cover body 601, thereby reducing the number of machining steps. This advantage is particularly pronounced when it is necessary to add branches to the oil passage 64, as machining the branched oil passages 64 becomes even more complex. On the other hand, the design of the slot 314 improves the convenience for workers when cleaning oil stains. In the ball return end cover 60 of a linear motor that is not used frequently, lubricating oil can remain in the oil passage 64 for a long period of time, potentially causing clogging. The design of the slot 314 makes cleaning by workers much easier. Furthermore, due to the open structure of slot 314, if it is necessary to control the flow rate of lubricating oil, the operator can easily install a flow control structure, such as an additional spacer, inside slot 314, thereby controlling the amount of lubricating oil discharged by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the oil passage 64.

[0054] Here, since the slot 314 is provided on the surface of the end cover body 601, the structural strength of the end cover body 601 can be maintained at a higher level, and the occurrence of deformation and damage can be further suppressed.

[0055] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 1 to 12, the first direction change port 62 protrudes outward from the end cover body 601 to form a mounting portion 66.

[0056] Specifically, the first direction change port 62 protrudes outward from the end cover body 601 to form a mounting portion 66. The installation of the mounting portion 66 facilitates attachment to the movable element 20, simplifying the assembly process and also providing a certain positional limiting function. Furthermore, the installation of the mounting portion 66 improves the sealing performance between the ball return end cover 60 and the movable element 20, preventing leakage of lubricating oil.

[0057] Preferably, the mounting portion 66 is further provided with a first position limiting portion 662, which prevents rotation when attaching the mounting portion 66 to the movable element 20, thereby further improving the mounting accuracy of the ball return end cover 60.

[0058] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 11, the end cover body 601 is provided with a second position limiting portion 604, which allows for a tighter fit between the ball return end cover 60 and other structures. Preferably, the second position limiting portion 604 consists of two protrusions, which can be integrally molded with the ball return end cover 60.

[0059] Preferably, the movable element 20 can be provided with a mounting fitting portion 23, and the mounting portion 66 and the mounting fitting portion 23 can be fitted together to improve the sealing effect and enhance the connection and fixing effect of the ball return end cover 60.

[0060] In other embodiments, the second direction change port 63 can also be provided with a mounting portion 66 that protrudes outward from the end cover body 601.

[0061] In some embodiments, the end cover body 601 is provided with through holes, allowing the worker to secure the end cover body 601 to the movable element 20 using bolts.

[0062] In some more specific embodiments, referring to Figures 10, 12, and 13, the mounting portion 66 is provided with a notch 661, and the oil passage 64 is in communication with the notch 661.

[0063] Furthermore, a notch 661 is provided in the mounting portion 66, and the oil passage 64 communicates with the notch 661. By providing an opening in the mounting portion 66, it becomes unnecessary to drill holes in other locations in the first direction change port 62. During the process of the ball circulating and returning, a certain impact force is applied to the ball return end cover 60, and this impact force is particularly pronounced at the position where the direction of the ball changes, i.e., at the curved portion of the ball return passage 61. Therefore, by providing a hole in the notch 661 of the mounting portion 66 that communicates with the oil passage 64, damage due to the impact force of the ball can be avoided, its structural strength can be increased, and as a result, the service life of the ball return end cover 60 can be extended.

[0064] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 10 to 14, at least two ball return passages 61 are provided, and all of the ball return passages 61 are in communication with the oil passage 64.

[0065] Specifically, compared to the case where a single ball return passage 61 is provided, providing at least two ball return passages 61 can improve the operational stability of the movable element 20. However, the number of ball return passages 61 is limited by manufacturing costs and the size of the movable element 20, so the number of ball return passages 61 must be appropriately designed as needed.

[0066] Here, since all of the ball return passages 61 are in communication with the oil passage 64, each ball return passage 61 can be lubricated by lubricating oil.

[0067] Preferably, referring to Figures 10 and 12, the oil passage 64 includes a main oil passage 64 and at least two branch oil passages 64, with one end of the main oil passage 64 communicating with the outside and the other end communicating with the multiple branch oil passages 64. This allows lubricating oil to be injected from the main oil passage 64. In other embodiments, the branch oil passages 64 may be connected to yet another branch oil passage 64, thereby enabling flow rate control.

[0068] In other embodiments, there may be multiple oil passages 64, each communicating with a multiple ball return passage 61, or the multiple oil passages 64 may communicate with different locations within a single ball return passage 61.

[0069] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 10, 11, 14, and 15, the end cover body 601 is equipped with a first oil filler port 641, and an oil box 41 is connected to the end cover body 601, with the oil box 41, the first oil filler port 641, and the oil passage 64 being in communication in this order.

[0070] Furthermore, the end cover body 601 is provided with a first oil inlet 641, and since the first oil inlet 641 can be integrated with the external oil box 41, the lubrication function can be realized independently without connecting any additional parts, resulting in a smaller movable element 20 and a more compact overall structure.

[0071] Preferably, referring to Figures 10, 11, 14, and 15, the end cover body 601 also includes a second oil inlet 642, which can be connected to an external pipe and is used to supply lubricating oil. By providing the end cover body 601 with both a first oil inlet 641 and a second oil inlet 642, the oil supply method can be selected according to the user's specific requirements, thereby improving the adaptability of the ball return end cover 60.

[0072] Referring to Figure 15, the present application discloses a linear motor comprising a stator rail 10 and a movable element 20 slidably fitted to the stator rail 10, the linear motor further comprising the ball return end cover 60 described above, the ball return end cover 60 being connected to the movable element 20.

[0073] By incorporating the ball return end cover 60 disclosed in this application, the linear motor can achieve improved lubrication, improved ball return effect, higher precision, smaller size, and further compact structure.

[0074] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 10, 12, and 13, the ball return passage 61 is provided with a recessed groove structure 65 that is recessed inward from the ball return passage 61, and the recessed groove structure 65 is provided along the direction of the ball return path of the ball return passage 61.

[0075] Furthermore, by providing a recessed groove structure 65 that is recessed inward from the ball return passage 61 in the ball return passage 61, and by arranging it along the direction of the ball return path of the ball return passage 61, it is possible to provide a guiding function for the ball and to distribute to some extent the pressure concentrated on the wall of the ball return passage 61, thereby further improving the ball return effect of the ball return end cover 60. Preferably, the recessed groove structure 65 is provided at the lower and / or upper part of the ball return passage 61, and by providing the recessed groove structure 65 at the lower and / or upper part of the ball return passage 61, taking into account the weight of the ball, the ball return effect can be further improved.

[0076] One point to consider is that the size of the groove structure 65 relative to the ball return passage 61 should not be too large; otherwise, the ball will sink almost completely into the groove structure 65, and the ball return effect cannot be improved.

[0077] Preferably, referring to Figures 10, 12, and 13, the groove structure 65 is a chamfered structure, which, compared to the groove structure 65, has a smoother contact surface 51 with the ball, higher structural strength, and is less prone to breakage. Specifically, the angle range of the chamfered structure is 10° to 80° (the angle range for general chamfering is 0° to 90°).

[0078] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 10 to 14, the end cover body 601 comprises an end cover plate 602 and a ball return plate 603, and the end cover plate 602 and the ball return plate 603 cooperate to form a ball return passage 61.

[0079] During the operation of the movable element 20, the impact force of the ball is mainly concentrated at the rear end of the end cover body 601. Therefore, the end cover plate 602 is more prone to damage than the ball return plate 603. By separating the end cover body 601 into the end cover plate 602 and the ball return plate 603, the replacement of damaged parts can be easily achieved.

[0080] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 10 to 14, either the end cover plate 602 or the ball return plate 603 is provided with a recessed groove structure 65 that is recessed inward from the ball return passage 61 at the joint between the two, and the recessed groove structure 65 is provided along the direction of the ball return path of the ball return passage 61.

[0081] Specifically, when the end cover body 601 is integrally molded, it becomes difficult to install the groove structure 65, whereas when the end cover plate 602 and the ball return plate 603 are constructed as independent parts, the processing and installation of the groove structure 65 can be easily achieved. Furthermore, in order to facilitate the installation of the groove structure 65, the groove structure 65 is provided at the joining position of either the end cover plate 602 or the ball return plate 603, that is, at the edge position of either the end cover plate 602 or the ball return plate 603.

[0082] Preferably, the groove structure 65 is a chamfered structure, which, compared to the groove structure 65, has a smoother contact surface 51 with the ball, higher structural strength, and is less prone to breakage. Specifically, the angle range of the chamfered structure is 10° to 80° (the angle range for general chamfering is 0° to 90°).

[0083] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, the sealing module 30 comprises a first sealing unit 31, and the first sealing unit 31 is connected to the movable element 20, which makes sealing contact with the stator rail 10, and the first sealing unit 31 extends to both ends along the sliding direction of the movable element 20 and abuts with both ends of the movable element 20, so that a sealed space is formed by the movable element 20, the first sealing unit 31 and the stator rail 10.

[0084] The first sealing unit 31 is provided on the movable element 20 and contacts the stator rail 10, thereby sealing the sliding portion of the movable element 20. The first sealing unit 31 further extends to both ends along the sliding direction of the movable element 20, thereby sealing many positions. Finally, the first sealing unit 31 abuts against both ends of the movable element 20, completely sealing the movable element 20. Within the sealing range of the first sealing unit 31, the leakage of lubricating oil through the first sealing unit 31 is prevented. Compared to the prior art, the linear motor disclosed in this application can exhibit a superior sealing effect for lubricating oil in the track 11.

[0085] Furthermore, if the linear motor operates at high speed with insufficient sealing performance, lubricating oil may scatter to other parts of the linear motor, surrounding equipment, and even the workpiece being processed, making cleaning and maintenance difficult. In addition, the purpose of using lubricating oil is to ensure lubrication between the movable element 20 and the stator rail 10. If lubricating oil leaks due to insufficient sealing performance, sufficient lubrication will not be obtained between the movable element 20 and the stator rail 10, resulting in a decrease in the accuracy of the linear motor and adversely affecting its performance.

[0086] Specifically, when sealing is performed by the first sealing unit 31, it is necessary to ensure a similar sealing structure in other parts of the space enclosed by the movable element 20, the first sealing unit 31, and the stator rail 10. If there is a through hole in the movable element 20 within the enclosed space, lubricating oil will leak out through the through hole, and the sealing effect will not be obtained. Therefore, it is necessary to form a sealed space with the movable element 20, the first sealing unit 31, and the stator rail 10.

[0087] Here, the first sealing unit 31 is in contact with both ends of the movable element 20. By contacting both ends of the movable element 20, the maximum possible sealing is achieved, and the area where lubricating oil may leak is also within the coverage area of ​​the first sealing unit 31. Furthermore, the areas where lubricating oil is most likely to leak are both ends of the movable element 20. This is because the linear motion of the linear motor causes lubricating oil to gradually accumulate at both ends of the movable element 20, and it leaks when it reaches a certain amount. Therefore, extending the first sealing unit 31 to both ends of the movable element 20 is a structural feature arranged based on the operating characteristics of stroke structures such as linear motors.

[0088] Furthermore, when lubricating a linear motor, only a sufficient amount of lubricant is often applied, so the amount of lubricant used is not excessive. Therefore, by bringing the first sealing unit 31 into contact with both ends of the movable element 20 using a contact method, a sufficient sealing effect can be achieved for the lubricant that reaches that part, and the assembly work can also be simplified.

[0089] Furthermore, the first sealing unit 31 extends to both ends along the sliding direction, and the ends of the movable element 20 can be sealed by other sealing structures. If it is necessary for the first sealing unit 31 to function as an end seal 415, the first sealing unit 31 can be bent in the thickness direction of the stator rail 10.

[0090] In this application, the stator rail 10 has an upper surface, a lower surface, and two side surfaces. The surface adjacent to the movable element 20 is the upper surface, the surface opposite the upper surface is the lower surface, the surface parallel to the sliding direction of the movable element 20 is the side surface, and the surface perpendicular to the sliding direction of the movable element 20 is the cross-section. The thickness direction of the stator rail 10 refers to the vertical direction between the upper surface and the lower surface. Both sides of the stator rail 10 refer to both sides in the vertical direction between the upper surface and the lower surface. Furthermore, the drawings in this application do not limit the type of linear motor and are clearly applicable to other types of linear motors.

[0091] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 17 and 19, one surface of the stator rail 10 that is in contact with the first sealing unit 31 is defined as the contact surface 51, and the first sealing unit 31 is perpendicular to the contact surface 51.

[0092] Furthermore, since a sealed contact is maintained between the movable element 20 and the stator rail 10, and if the contact state becomes unstable, there is a possibility that some of the lubricating oil may leak out. Therefore, maintaining stable contact between the movable element 20 and the stator rail 10 is an important step in achieving effective sealing. By arranging the first sealing unit 31 perpendicular to the contact surface 51, the pressure generated from the first sealing unit 31 acts perpendicular to the contact surface 51. This not only ensures close contact between the first sealing unit 31 and the stator rail 10, but also allows the first sealing unit 31 and the stator rail 10 to be kept in close contact even if axial displacement occurs in the movable element 20 and / or the stator rail 10, without affecting the sealing performance.

[0093] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 16-19, the first sealing unit 31 has a curved end 311 bent to one side thereof, which contacts the stator rail 10.

[0094] Specifically, the first sealing unit 31 has a curved end 311 bent on one side, and by adjusting the curvature angle of the provided curved end 311, the sealing contact position between the first sealing unit 31 and the stator rail 10 can be changed, thereby improving compatibility with other structures on the linear motor. Compared to the case without the curved end 311, by providing the curved end 311, the first sealing unit 31 can obtain a larger elastic space in its orientation, further improving the sealing effect during the operation of the linear motor. Furthermore, a certain amount of lubricating oil can be stored in the curved space of the curved end 311, or in the space enclosed by the curved end 311 and the stator rail 10, thereby suppressing lubricating oil leakage and further enhancing the sealing effect.

[0095] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, the curved end 311 is bent outward from the movable element 20 in a direction away from the movable element 20.

[0096] Furthermore, the curved end 311 of the first sealing unit 31 can contact the stator rail 10 in different directions. Additionally, by bending the curved end 311 outward away from the movable element 20, there are no areas on the curved end 311 that are difficult to clean when an operator cleans the linear motor, making cleaning easier and preventing dust from accumulating and affecting the normal operation of the linear motor. In this embodiment, the bending of the curved end 311 outward from the movable element 20 in a direction away from the movable element 20 can be specifically explained by the orientation of the curved end 311 in the drawings.

[0097] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, an engagement groove 312 is provided on either the first sealing unit 31 or the movable element 20, and a positioning projection 417313 is provided on the other, and the engagement groove 312 and the positioning projection 417313 are fitted together.

[0098] Specifically, the first sealing unit 31 is connected to the movable element 20 by the mutual engagement of a positioning projection 417313 and an engagement groove 312. The positioning projection 417313 and the engagement groove 312 have the advantages of a simple structure, secure fitting, and ease of assembly, allowing the operator to easily attach, detach, and replace the first sealing unit 31.

[0099] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, the movable element 20 has a slot 314 provided along the sliding direction, the first sealing unit 31 is assembled within the slot 314, and the engagement groove 312 and the positioning projection 417313 fit together within the slot 314.

[0100] Furthermore, the movable element 20 has a slot 314 provided along the sliding direction, and the first sealing unit 31 is assembled into the slot 314, while the engagement groove 312 and the positioning projection 417313 are fitted into the slot 314. This not only improves the fixing effect to the first sealing unit 31, but also eliminates the need to provide the positioning projection 417313 and slot 314 at other locations, and the stability of the connection and fixing of the first sealing unit 31 is further improved by the cooperation of multiple structural elements.

[0101] Preferably, referring to Figures 17 and 19, the width of the slot 314 is the same as the thickness of the first sealing unit 31, thereby achieving a mating connection. Connection stability is further improved.

[0102] Preferably, referring to Figures 17 and 19, a certain margin space is secured below the slot 314, thereby preventing machining errors that would hinder the installation of the first sealing unit 31.

[0103] In some more specific embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, the positioning projection 417313 is a striped rib provided along the sliding direction, and the engagement groove 312 engages with the striped rib.

[0104] Specifically, the positioning projection 417313 is a strip-shaped rib provided along the sliding direction, and since the engagement groove 312 and the strip-shaped rib fit together, the engagement groove 312 is also a strip-shaped engagement groove 312, and when the worker installs the first sealing unit 31, it is necessary to insert the first sealing unit 31 into the movable element 20 along the sliding direction. Compared to positioning projections 417313 such as protrusions and projections, the strip-shaped rib exhibits a superior position limiting effect in all directions other than the sliding direction.

[0105] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, the first sealing unit 31 comprises a first sealing member 315 and a second sealing member 316, the first sealing member 315 and the second sealing member 316 being provided on both sides of the stator rail 10, respectively.

[0106] In the case of a linear motor that does not have an oil receiving groove at the bottom, it is necessary to provide a first sealing member 315 and a second sealing member 316 on both sides of the stator rail 10 as an upper seal and a lower seal, respectively.

[0107] Preferably, referring to Figures 16 to 19, the first sealing member 315 and the second sealing member 316 are both seal strips, which may be made of a metal material, fabric, felt, or polymer material. Obviously, in other embodiments, the first sealing unit 31 may also consist of a single seal strip.

[0108] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 17 and 19, the stator rail 10 has a top surface and a side surface adjacent to the top surface, the first sealing member 315 is in contact with the top surface, and the second sealing member 316 is in contact with the side surface.

[0109] Specifically, by bringing the second sealing member 316 into contact with the side surface of the stator rail 10, not only can the distance to the position where the movable element 20 slides along the stator rail 10 be shortened, but problems such as increased height due to contact with the lower surface and inconvenience in arranging the linear motor can also be avoided.

[0110] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 16 to 19, a second sealing unit 32 is provided at the end of the movable element 20, the edge of the second sealing unit 32 is in sealing contact with the stator rail 10, and the first sealing unit 31 is in contact with one side of the second sealing unit 32.

[0111] Furthermore, a second sealing unit 32 is provided at the end of the movable element 20, and its edge position makes sealing contact with the stator rail 10. The edge shape of the second sealing unit 32 can be set according to the specific shape of the stator rail 10, thereby sealing the stator rail 10 and enabling the movable element 20 to seal against the rail end. The first sealing unit 31 abuts against one side of the second sealing unit 32, thereby eliminating the need to add a structure to the movable element 20 for abutting the first sealing unit 31, and optimizing the structure.

[0112] Specifically, the first sealing unit 31 comprises a first sealing member 315 and a second sealing member 316, with the first sealing member 315 and the second sealing member 316 being provided on both sides of the stator rail 10. In the sealed space formed by the second sealing unit 32, the first sealing member 315, the second sealing member 316, the movable element 20, and the stator rail 10, the lubricating oil circulates within the sealed space in conjunction with the movement of the linear motor, thereby improving the operational accuracy of the linear motor.

[0113] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 1 to 6, the lubrication module 40 comprises an oil box 41, an oil guide component 413, and a lubrication unit 43. The oil box 41, which has an oil reservoir chamber 411, is connected to the linear motor. An oil guide component 413 is provided inside the oil reservoir chamber 411. The oil guide component 413 comprises a buffer surface 4131 and an oil guide end 4132 extending from the buffer surface 4131 to the opposite side. A lubrication unit 43 for lubricating the linear motor is connected to the oil guide component 413.

[0114] An oil guide component 413 is provided in the oil storage chamber 411. The oil guide component 413 has a buffer surface 4131 and an oil guide end 4132, the oil guide end 4132 extending from the buffer surface 4131 to the opposite side thereof. This allows the oil guide component 413 to draw in lubricating oil from multiple directions within the oil storage chamber 411, enabling lubricating oil to be drawn in through the oil guide component 413 regardless of the arrangement or installation method of the linear motor. Furthermore, the oil guide component 413 can store a certain amount of lubricating oil, thereby preventing damage to the lubrication unit 43 due to dry friction and providing a certain buffering effect before the lubricating oil reaches the lubrication unit 43. Compared to the prior art, the linear motor disclosed in this application can achieve improved lubrication stability.

[0115] Specifically, the buffer surface 4131 can be either a flat or curved surface, and may also be formed by connecting two non-parallel strip-like structures. The buffer surface 4131 is formed by the installation of the buffer surface 4131, which allows lubricating oil to be drawn up by penetration in any two directions, and by adding the oil guide end 4132, the oil guide component 413 can absorb lubricating oil in a third direction. As a result, no matter what position the oil box 41 is in, the oil guide component 413 is always in contact with the lubricating oil in the oil storage chamber 411, and the lubrication unit 43 can be reliably supplied with the lubricating oil necessary for lubricating the linear motor.

[0116] Here, the oil guide end extends toward the opposite side of the buffer surface 4131, that is, the direction of extension of the oil guide end is toward the side away from the buffer surface 4131, and this application does not limit whether or not the oil guide end extends perpendicular to the buffer surface 4131.

[0117] The lubrication unit 43 may communicate with the buffer surface 4131 or with the oil guide end 4132.

[0118] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 2, the buffer surface 4131 and the oil guide end 4132 are in contact with the inner walls on both sides of the oil storage chamber 411, respectively.

[0119] Furthermore, the buffer surface 4131 and the oil guide end 4132 are in contact with the inner walls on both sides of the oil storage chamber 411, respectively. As a result, the lubricating oil is drawn up by the oil guide component 413 regardless of which side of the oil storage chamber 411 it is concentrated on, allowing for maximum utilization of the lubricating oil in the oil storage chamber 411.

[0120] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 2, at least two buffer surfaces 4131 are provided, and multiple buffer surfaces 4131 are connected via oil guide ends 4132.

[0121] Furthermore, multiple buffer surfaces 4131 may be provided, which can further improve the lubricating oil absorption capacity. It should also be noted that the oil guide component 413 is not positioned to occupy a large volume within the oil storage chamber 411, resulting in a reduced oil storage capacity of the oil box 41.

[0122] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 2, the shape and size of the oil guide component 413 are identical to those of the oil storage chamber 411.

[0123] Furthermore, the shape and size of the oil reservoir chamber 411 are identical to those of the oil guide component 413. For example, if the shape of the oil reservoir chamber 411 is spherical, the shape of the oil guide component 413 is also spherical and the same in size. As another example, if the shape of the oil reservoir chamber 411 is hexahedron, the shape of the oil guide component 413 is also hexahedron and the same in size. In this way, no matter where the lubricating oil is located within the oil reservoir chamber 411, it can be absorbed by the oil guide component 413, resulting in a more stable lubrication effect for the linear motor.

[0124] In some embodiments, the oil guide component 413 is an oil-absorbing sponge.

[0125] Furthermore, the oil-absorbing sponge used as the oil guide component 413 is low-cost and has excellent oil absorption and storage capabilities. In other embodiments, the oil guide component 413 may be an oil-absorbing felt or other polymer material.

[0126] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 1 to 6, the oil box 41 is connected to the movable element 20, and the lubrication unit 43 is in contact with the track 11 of the stator rail 10.

[0127] An oil box 41 is provided that slides together with the movable element 20, and an oil storage chamber 411 for storing lubricating oil is provided in the oil box 41. Furthermore, a lubrication unit 43 is connected to the oil storage chamber 411, and finally the lubrication unit 43 is brought into contact with the track 11. As a result, the lubrication unit 43 slides together with the movable element 20, and during the sliding process of the movable element 20, the lubrication unit 43 comes into direct contact with the track 11, thereby achieving lubrication over the entire track 11. Furthermore, by controlling the flow rate of the lubrication unit 43, an appropriate amount of lubricating oil can be uniformly supplied over the entire length of the track 11, resulting in an optimal lubrication effect. Compared to the prior art, the linear motor disclosed in this application can achieve an improved lubrication effect.

[0128] Specifically, by having the lubrication unit 43 in direct contact with the track 11, in addition to improving the lubrication effect, the lubrication unit 43 can select its own contact position with the track 11 according to the shape of the track 11, thus enabling more precise control of the lubricating oil application position. Furthermore, since the lubrication unit 43 slides simultaneously with the movable element 20, the movable element 20 receives lubrication immediately after the lubrication oil is released from the lubrication unit 43, and therefore the linear motor disclosed in this application can achieve rapid lubrication.

[0129] Here, the oil box 41 is provided with its own oil storage chamber 411, eliminating the need to connect to an external oil storage facility and supply lubricating oil from the outside, thereby enabling the linear motor to adapt to a variety of operating environments. It should be interpreted that the oil box 41 described in this application may be provided as an independent structural component, or as part of a structural member constituting the movable element 20. For example, protective housings may be provided on both sides of the movable element 20, and the oil storage chamber 411 may be provided in the protective housing, in which case the protective housing is the oil box 41 in this application.

[0130] The lubrication unit 43 can employ a structure such as cloth, sponge, brush, or nozzle. When cloth, sponge, or brush is selected as the lubrication unit 43, it communicates with the oil reservoir 411 and can apply lubricating oil to the track 11. When a nozzle is used as the lubrication unit 43, the nozzle tip is brought into contact with the track 11, and lubricating oil is released from the nozzle tip when the movable element 20 slides. When the movable element 20 does not slide, the nozzle tip is compressed and the release of lubricating oil stops. In other embodiments, it is also possible to achieve lubrication of the track 11 using an electrically driven lubrication unit 43. In this case, the lubrication unit 43 is driven during lubrication to communicate with the oil reservoir 411 and release lubricating oil to achieve lubrication of the track 11.

[0131] Furthermore, this application does not limit the installation positions of the oil box 41 and lubrication unit 43 on the movable element 20. The oil box 41 and lubrication unit 43 can be installed in the same location (to facilitate attachment and detachment) or in separate locations. The oil box 41 and lubrication unit 43 can be installed in the longitudinal direction of the movable element 20, in the width direction of the movable element 20, or above or below the upper part of the movable element 20.

[0132] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 1 and 3, the stator rail 10 and the movable element 20 are in sliding contact via a sliding surface 12, and the lubrication unit 43 is in contact with the sliding surface 12.

[0133] Furthermore, the lubrication unit 43 is in direct contact with the sliding surface 12, which allows for simple and efficient lubrication, and ensures that the entire sliding surface 12 is lubricated, further improving the lubrication effect.

[0134] In other embodiments, the lubrication unit 43 may further contact the upper part of the sliding surface 12, thereby allowing lubricating oil to flow onto the sliding surface 12 under the influence of gravity and achieving lubrication of the track 11.

[0135] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the lubrication unit 43 is an oil-soaked cloth, the first end 431 of the oil-soaked cloth is in communication with an oil guide component 413, and the second end 432 of the oil-soaked cloth is in contact with the raceway 11.

[0136] The lubrication unit 43 is an oil-soaked cloth, and the lubricating oil in the oil storage chamber 411 impregnates the cloth. When it comes into contact with the track 11, the lubricating oil is applied to the track 11, thereby achieving lubrication. By using an oil-soaked cloth, on the one hand, its light weight results in only a slight increase in weight when mounted on the movable element 20, and at the same time, its cost is kept low, contributing to cost reduction. On the other hand, since the oil-soaked cloth relies on the principle of the penetrating properties of the lubricating oil, there is no need to install an additional mechanical structure for lubrication application, and the overall structure can be further simplified.

[0137] Specifically, the oil-soaked cloth has a first end 431 and a second end 432. The first end 431 is used to absorb lubricating oil in the oil storage chamber 411, and the second end 432 is used to apply lubricating oil. By adjusting the size ratio of the first end 431 and the second end 432, and combining this with other mounting structures (the oil application chamber 412 described later), the operator can control the discharge flow rate of the lubricating oil, thereby accommodating different usage conditions.

[0138] Here, the oil-soaked cloth can be selected from fabric types such as silk, cotton, Oxford cloth, linen, blends, napped cloth, or felt.

[0139] In some specific embodiments, the oil-soaked cloth is oil-impregnated felt.

[0140] Specifically, oil-impregnated felt is selected as the oil-soaked cloth. Felt has excellent elasticity, structural stability, heat insulation, and wear resistance. The heat generated by friction with the track 11 during the lubrication process does not affect the oil-impregnated felt. Furthermore, its high-density structure and excellent stability extend its service life. Importantly, since the fibers of the oil-impregnated felt do not easily shed, fiber residue on the track 11 is prevented, which does not impair the sliding accuracy of the movable element 20 and does not affect the stroke accuracy of the movable element 20.

[0141] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the oil box 41 has an oil coating chamber 412, the oil coating chamber 412 is in communication with the oil storage chamber 411, and at least a portion of the cross-sectional size of the oil coating chamber 412 is the same as that of the oil-soaked cloth, and the oil-soaked cloth is assembled inside the oil coating chamber 412 at the portion where its cross-sectional size is the same.

[0142] Specifically, at least a portion of the cross-sectional size of the oiling chamber 412 is the same as that of the oil-soaked cloth, and the oil-soaked cloth is assembled inside the oiling chamber 412 at that location, thereby preventing the lubricating oil from leaking out from other locations. Furthermore, the installation of the oiling chamber 412 allows the oil-soaked cloth to be securely fixed on the one hand, and on the other hand, the structure of the movable element 20 can be made more compact, further reducing its volume.

[0143] Furthermore, this application does not limit the position of the oil-soaked cloth relative to the oil storage chamber 411. In other embodiments, the oil-soaked cloth may be positioned above the oil storage chamber 411, in which case the lubricating oil in the oil storage chamber 411 can similarly penetrate upward through the oil-soaked cloth.

[0144] In some more specific embodiments, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the oiling chamber 412 and the oil-soaked cloth are compatible in shape and size, with the first end 431 being smaller than the second end 432.

[0145] Specifically, the oiling chamber 412 and the oil-soaked cloth are mutually compatible in shape and size, so that the oil-soaked cloth always remains stable within the oiling chamber 412, without movement, deformation, or compression. Furthermore, the first end 431 of the oil-soaked cloth is smaller than the second end 432, so that the lubricating oil that has penetrated from the first end 431 is more dispersed at the second end 432, thereby suppressing the amount of lubricating oil applied to the track 11 and achieving the objective of controlling the discharge flow rate.

[0146] In some more specific embodiments, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the oil storage chamber 411 and the oil-soaked cloth are arranged vertically, with the oil storage chamber 411 located above the oil-soaked cloth.

[0147] Furthermore, the oil storage chamber 411 is located above the oil-soaked cloth, which creates a constant pressure at the first end 431 of the oil-soaked cloth, allowing the lubricating oil to penetrate the cloth more easily, and as a result, stable discharge of lubricating oil is achieved at the second end 432.

[0148] In some embodiments, the oil storage chamber 411, the oil coating chamber 412, and the oil guide component 413 are sealed by an oil barrier plate 416. Here, the oil box 41 includes an oil barrier plate 416.

[0149] In some specific embodiments, the oil box 41 and the oil barrier plate 416 have a convex structure on one side and a concave structure on the other, and the convex and concave structures fit together to achieve positioning between the oil box 41 and the oil barrier plate 416. Preferably, the convex structure consists of at least two positioning pins.

[0150] In some embodiments, the oil box 41 and the linear motor have a convex structure on one side and a concave structure on the other, and positioning between the oil box 41 and the linear motor is achieved by the mutual fitting of the convex and concave structures. Preferably, the convex structure consists of at least two positioning pins.

[0151] In some embodiments, the oil box 41 is provided with a seal strip that is independent of other sealing structures on the linear motor, and when connecting the oil box 41 to the linear motor, the seal strip and other structures can provide a sealed connection, and the seal strip is press-fitted between the oil box 41 and the linear motor. The independently provided seal strip facilitates the attachment and detachment of the oil box 41 and improves the adaptability of the oil box 41. In other embodiments, the oil box 41 can also be sealed by other sealing structures provided on the linear motor.

[0152] In some embodiments, an end seal 415 is connected to the outside of the oil barrier plate 416, and the end seal 415 has a shape that matches the shape of the track 11 in the vicinity of the track 11, thereby preventing dust from entering from the outside and protecting the lubrication unit 43.

[0153] In some embodiments, positioning projections 417313 are formed on the outside of the oil barrier plate 416 and connect to the end seal 415. This positions the end seal 415 and makes the connection more secure.

[0154] In some specific embodiments, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the oil box 41 is provided with a partition 414, the partition 414 is located at the second end 432, and a portion of it blocks the space between the track 11 and the second end 432.

[0155] Furthermore, the oil box 41 is provided with a partition 414. On the one hand, the partition 414 limits the contact position between the oil guide component 413 and the track 11, blocking and protecting areas where lubricating oil does not need to be applied. On the other hand, the installation of the partition 414 limits the discharge flow rate, allowing for further control of the amount of lubricating oil discharged.

[0156] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 1 to 6, the oil box 41 is connected to the end of the movable element 20 along the sliding direction of the movable element 20.

[0157] Specifically, the oil box 41 is connected to the end of the movable element 20 along the sliding direction of the movable element 20. By connecting the oil box 41 to the end of the movable element 20, refilling, maintenance, and replacement of the oil box 41 become easier. Furthermore, because the oil box 41 is located at the end of the movable element 20, the movable element 20 passes over the lubricated area immediately after the lubrication operation by the lubrication unit 43, thereby improving the lubrication effect.

[0158] Preferably, two oil reservoirs 411 are provided along the sliding direction of the movable element 20, each located at both ends of the movable element 20, so that lubrication by the lubrication unit 43 is performed in advance regardless of the direction in which the movable element 20 slides.

[0159] Preferably, the oil box 41 has an arched shape, where the arched opening corresponds to the shape and size of the movable element 20 at the mounting site of the oil box 41. Furthermore, oil storage chambers 411 are provided at both ends of the oil box 41, which makes the appearance more aesthetically pleasing and the connection with the movable element 20 more compact. Moreover, the arched structure allows for more effective provision of oil storage chambers 411 at both ends of the movable element 20, which not only makes the installation of the oil storage chambers 411 easier but also simplifies the installation of the oil box 41 and protects the movable element 20.

[0160] Where the terms "Example 1," "This Example," or "In One Example" appear in this specification, these mean that the specific features, structures, materials, or properties described in the example or illustration are included in the present invention or at least one example or illustration of the present invention. In this specification, the exemplary descriptions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same example or illustration, and furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or properties described can be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more examples or illustrations.

[0161] In this specification, terms such as “connection,” “attachment,” “fixing,” “installation,” and “equipment” are to be interpreted broadly. For example, “connection” may mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection or an integral connection, a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, a direct connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, or internal communication between the two members. Those skilled in the art will be able to understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application depending on the actual situation.

[0162] In this specification, relational terms such as “first” and “second” are used solely to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily imply or suggest that there is an actual relationship or order between such entities or operations. “Includes,” “equips,” or other variations are intended to be non-exclusive; therefore, a process, method, article, or equipment containing a set of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements specific to that process, method, article, or equipment. Unless further limited, an element limited by the statement “includes one…” does not preclude the presence of another identical element in a process, method, article, or equipment containing such element.

[0163] The descriptions of the embodiments described herein are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand and implement the art, and it is clear that such persons will be able to easily modify these embodiments and apply the general principles described herein to other embodiments without requiring any creative work. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and the following types of modifications are all included in the scope of protection: (1) new technical solutions implemented based on the technical solutions of the present invention and in combination with prior art, wherein the technical effects produced by the new technical solutions do not exceed the scope of the technical effects of the present invention; (2) equivalent substitution of some features of the technical solutions of the present invention with prior art, wherein the resulting technical effects are identical to the technical effects of the present invention; (3) extensions based on the technical solutions of the present invention, wherein the substantial content of the extended technical solutions does not exceed the scope of the technical solutions of the present invention; and (4) applications to other related technical fields, directly or indirectly, using equivalent transformations based on the specifications and drawings of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0164] 10 Stator Rails 11 orbit 12 Sliding surface 20 Mover 21 Ball slide rail 22 Contact notch 23 Mounting fitting section 30 sealed modules 31. First sealed unit 311 Curved end 312 Engagement groove 313 Positioning protrusion 314 slots 315 First sealing member 316 Second sealing member 32 Second sealed unit 40 Lubrication Modules 41 Oil Box 411 Oil storage room 412 Oiling room 413 Oil guide parts 4131 Buffer surface 4132 Oil guide end 414 Partition Section 415 End seal 416 Oil shield plate 417 Positioning protrusion 43 Lubrication Unit 431 1st end 432 2nd end 50 Ball Holding Plates 51 Contact surface 52 Positioning surface 53 Strip-shaped protrusions 54 mounting holes 55 Second mating surface 60 Ball return end cover 601 End cover body 602 End cover plate 603 Ball return plate 604 Second position limiting section 61 Ball return passage 62 First Direction Change Gate 63 Second Direction Change Gate 64 Oil road 641 First fuel filler cap 642 Second fuel filler cap 643 Connecting port 65 Groove structure 66 Mounting part 661 Notch 662 First position limiting section

Claims

1. A linear motor comprising a stator rail and a movable element slidably fitted to the stator rail, A sealing module provided on the movable element and slidably sealed on the stator rail, wherein the movable element, the stator rail, and the sealing module together enclose a sealed space, Ball return end covers are provided at both ends of the movable element, each of the ball return end covers is provided with a ball return passage, and the ball return passage and the first slide rail cooperate to form a circulation path for moving the ball, A lubrication module provided in the linear motor and communicating with the sealed space, A linear motor further comprising a ball-holding plate having a positioning surface that engages with the movable element, wherein the ball-holding plate is provided with contact surfaces that restrict the ball on both the upper and lower sides of the positioning surface.

2. The linear motor according to claim 1, characterized in that the positioning surface has strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions provided along the sliding direction of the movable element, the movable element is provided with a fitting portion, and the fitting portion and the strip-shaped recesses and / or strip-shaped protrusions of the positioning surface form a fitting structure.

3. The linear motor according to claim 1, characterized in that the movable element and the ball retaining plate cooperate to form a first slide rail having a contact notch, the contact notch is opened along the sliding direction of the movable element, the ball is confined within the first slide rail, and a portion of each ball penetrates the contact notch and contacts the stator rail.

4. The linear motor according to claim 3, characterized in that the ball retaining plate is configured symmetrically in the vertical direction, and the contact notches are provided symmetrically along the symmetrical plane of the ball retaining plate.

5. The linear motor according to claim 4, characterized in that the contact notch located on the upper side of the positioning surface has an opening direction that is obliquely directed upward, and the contact notch located on the lower side of the positioning surface has an opening direction that is obliquely directed downward.

6. The linear motor according to claim 3, characterized in that the upper or lower half of the ball on the side adjacent to the stator rail is in contact with the stator rail.

7. The linear motor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the ball return passage has a first direction change port and a second direction change port, the ball return end cover is provided with an oil passage that communicates with the outside, and the oil passage communicates with the ball return passage.

8. The linear motor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the ball return passage is provided with a recessed groove structure that is recessed inward from the ball return passage, and the recessed groove structure is provided along the direction of the ball return path of the ball return passage.

9. The linear motor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the sealed module comprises a first sealed unit, the movable element is connected to the first sealed unit which makes sealed contact with the stator rail, the first sealed unit extends to both ends along the sliding direction of the movable element and is in contact with both ends of the movable element, and a sealed space is formed by the movable element, the first sealed unit and the stator rail.

10. The linear motor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the lubrication module comprises an oil box, an oil guide component, and a lubrication unit, the oil box having an oil storage chamber is connected to the linear motor, the oil guide component is provided in the oil storage chamber, the oil guide component comprises a buffer surface and an oil guide end extending to the opposite side from the buffer surface, and the lubrication unit for lubricating the linear motor is connected to the oil guide component.

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