Linear movement device having an energy generation device for providing electrical energy
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2026/054006
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-02-20
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-27
Smart Images
Figure EP2026054006_27082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Linear motion device with a power generation unit for providing electrical energy
[0002] Field of invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a linear motion device with an energy generation device for providing electrical energy.
[0004] Background of the invention
[0005] Linear motion devices are known in the prior art, comprising a first device component and a second device component, wherein the second device component is supported on the first device component by rolling elements, such that the second device component is movable linearly relative to the first device component along a linear motion direction. Such linear motion devices can, for example, be designed as a linear guide with a guide rail as the first device component and with a linear guide carriage or a linear guide slide as the second device component, wherein in this example the linear guide carriage or the linear guide slide is supported on the guide rail by rolling elements (usually in the form of balls or rollers), such that the linear guide carriage or the linear guide slide is movable along the guide rail.The linear guide slide can move via the rolling elements in a longitudinal direction relative to the guide rail. Alternatively, linear motion devices of the aforementioned type can also be designed as a threaded drive with a threaded spindle as the first device component and with a threaded nut as the second device component, wherein in this example the threaded nut is supported on the threaded spindle via rolling elements (for example in the form of balls) so that the threaded nut can move via the rolling elements in a longitudinal direction relative to the threaded spindle.
[0006] With regard to linear motion devices of the aforementioned type, there are increasing requirements to design the second device component (a linear guide carriage or a linear guide slide of a linear guide or a threaded nut of a threaded drive) to be energy self-sufficient.
[0007] For example, DE10 2018 209 999 A1 discloses linear motion devices of the aforementioned type, which are implemented as linear guides or as threaded drives and include an energy generation device. In the case of a linear guide, the energy generation device is attached to the linear guide carriage or the linear guide slide of the linear guide, and in the case of a threaded drive, it is attached to the threaded nut of the threaded drive. The energy generation device comprises a generator driven by a friction wheel, which generates electrical energy when the friction wheel rotates. In the case of the linear guide, the friction wheel rests against the guide rail of the linear guide and is set in rotation by moving the linear guide carriage or the linear guide slide along the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, thus driving the generator.In the case of a threaded drive, the friction wheel rests against the threaded spindle and is set in motion by a relative movement between the threaded nut and the threaded spindle, thus driving the generator. Driven in this way, the generator can provide electrical energy, for example to power a sensor.
[0008] However, in the prior art, generating electrical energy is relatively complex, and implementing the energy generation device on the linear guide carriage, the linear guide slide of the linear guide, or the threaded nut of the screw drive becomes complicated. Furthermore, generating electrical energy depends on external factors, such as the friction between the friction wheel and the surface of the guide rail of a linear guide or the surface of the threaded spindle of a screw drive.
[0009] The object of the present invention is therefore to propose a linear motion device with an energy generation device which can overcome the above disadvantages.
[0010] Summary of the invention
[0011] This problem is solved according to the invention by a linear motion device with the features according to claim 1.
[0012] The linear motion device comprises a first device component and a second device component, the second device component being supported on the first device component by means of rolling elements, such that the second device component is movable linearly relative to the first device component along a linear motion direction. The second device component comprises: a running section between which and the first device component a plurality of rolling elements are movable to allow the second device component to move relative to the first device component; a return mechanism configured to return the plurality of rolling elements from one end of the running section to the other end of the running section; and an energy generation device configured to provide electrical energy by interacting with at least one rolling element in an interaction section of the return mechanism.According to the aforementioned design of the energy generation device, electrical energy is generated through interaction with at least one rolling element, specifically by converting the kinetic and / or potential energy of the at least one rolling element. Thus, the generation of electrical energy can be achieved simply using components already present in a linear motion device, particularly the rolling elements. Furthermore, the interaction section is located in the feedback mechanism, i.e., not in the running section. Therefore, the energy generation device can be positioned on the feedback mechanism without interfering with other elements in the vicinity, such as the first device component. This allows for a simpler design of the energy generation device and a more compact design of the second device component.Furthermore, the running section can remain largely unaffected by the electrical energy generation, particularly the rolling elements within the running section. The power transmission and the relative motion between the first and second device components can therefore be reliably achieved.
[0013] It should be noted that the second device component may comprise the multitude of rolling elements.
[0014] The recirculation device can describe any device that defines a closed path for the rolling elements with the running section, thus forming a recirculation device. The rolling elements can circulate along this closed path. The recirculation device enables the second device component to be moved relative to the first device component in the linear motion direction over any desired distance. The specific form of the closed path is not defined. The recirculation device can be integrated with the running section or provided separately. The recirculation device itself can also comprise several separate elements.
[0015] The running section is a section facing the first device component. It is, in particular, a load-bearing section in which a force can be transmitted between the second and first device components via the rolling elements. The running section can be in direct contact with the rolling elements.
[0016] The energy generation device can be provided at least partially, and in particular completely, on a side facing away from the first device component with respect to the running section. Furthermore, the energy generation device can be provided at least partially, and in particular completely, on a side facing the first device component with respect to a section of the return device furthest away from the running section in a direction transverse to the linear motion direction.
[0017] As already mentioned, the energy generation device can be located at the feedback device, particularly at the interaction section, and remain in direct contact with it.
[0018] The energy generation facility can continue to form part of the feedback device.
[0019] The energy generation device can at least partially, and in particular completely, surround the interaction section in a section perpendicular to a direction of extension of the interaction section.
[0020] The interaction section can be located within a linear segment of the feedback mechanism. This can further simplify the placement and / or design of the energy generation device. Furthermore, the impact on the rolling elements can be minimized. For example, jamming of the rolling elements can be prevented. The energy generation device can, for instance, be positioned transversely to the direction of the linear extension of the feedback segment and / or extend parallel to the linear motion direction.
[0021] The interaction section can be provided in particular in a linear section of the feedback device, which extends parallel to the linear motion direction.
[0022] This allows the complexity of the second device component to be further reduced. The installation of the energy generation unit can also be simplified.
[0023] Alternatively, the interaction section can be located in a curved section of the return device.
[0024] This allows the curved section to deflect the rolling elements while simultaneously generating energy. This also helps to keep the complexity of the second device component low. Furthermore, the energy generation device can, for example, be positioned at least partially radially within the curved section, thus providing sufficient space for it. A centrifugal force from at least one rolling element can also be used for energy generation. The energy generation device can include an induction element.
[0025] This allows an electrical voltage to be generated inductively. Furthermore, the effects on the circulation of the rolling elements can be kept to a minimum.
[0026] The induction device can, for example, comprise: a device for generating a static magnetic field in a spatial region, in particular the interaction section that the rolling elements must successively traverse during operation when circulating in the circulating device, wherein the rolling elements are made of a magnetically permeable material such that the rolling elements are suitable for influencing the magnetic field depending on the position of the rolling elements in that spatial region; and at least one induction coil with at least one coil turn, wherein the at least one induction coil is arranged in a stationary position relative to the device for generating a static magnetic field such that, due to a change in the position of the rolling elements during circulation of the rolling elements through that spatial region, it experiences a change in magnetic flux which induces an electrical voltage in the at least one coil turn.
[0027] The rolling elements can be made of steel, for example.
[0028] Alternatively and / or additionally, the energy generation device can include a piezoelectric device.
[0029] The piezoelectric device can be designed such that an electrical voltage is generated when a force is applied to a deformation element. The piezoelectric device can be arranged to receive an inertial force, such as centrifugal force, and / or gravitational force, and / or elastic force from the at least one rolling element in the interaction section.
[0030] According to another aspect, the second device component can also include a sensor unit that is energetically coupled to the power generation device. This allows technically relevant information to be detected at the second device component. The sensor unit can be powered by the electrical energy supplied by the power generation device.
[0031] The sensor unit can, for example, include a lubricant sensor that detects information about lubricant composition and / or quantity, a temperature sensor that detects temperature, and / or an inertial sensor that detects at least translational and / or rotational acceleration. In particular, the sensor unit can be configured to detect a property in the feedback device within a detection section of the feedback device. This allows the sensor unit to be easily integrated, similar to the power generation device, as it does not need to interfere with the running section. Furthermore, the sensor unit can be located on the feedback device and thus relatively close to the power generation device, which in turn allows for short power supply lines to the sensor unit.The lubricant sensor can, for example, detect the composition and / or quantity of a lubricant in the feedback device. The temperature sensor can, for example, detect the temperature inside the feedback device, particularly of the lubricant. The inertial sensor can, for example, detect the acceleration of at least one rolling element.
[0032] As already mentioned, the sensor unit can be located on the feedback device, particularly on the detection section, and especially in direct contact with it. The sensor unit can at least partially, and in particular completely, surround the detection section in a section perpendicular to one of its directions of extension.
[0033] Furthermore, the detection section can be located in a linear section of the feedback device.
[0034] This also allows for simple design and a simple shape of the sensor unit. For example, the sensor unit can be mounted transversely to one direction of extension of the linear section and / or extend parallel to the direction of linear motion.
[0035] The detection section can be located at a position that is offset from the interaction section.
[0036] This avoids interference between energy generation and information detection. Furthermore, the second device component can be designed compactly, perpendicular to the linear motion direction. The complexity can also be kept low. The detection section and the interaction section can be arranged along a linear section parallel to the linear motion direction.
[0037] According to another aspect, the second device component can have a base body, and the feedback device can be designed separately from the base body, at least in the interaction section and / or the detection section. This allows for a further simplification of the manufacture of the second device component. For example, the energy generation device and / or the sensor unit can be pre-attached to the feedback device as a sub-assembly, as described in the relevant section.
[0038] According to yet another aspect, the second device component can also include a wireless communication unit that is energetically coupled to the power generation device.
[0039] This allows the second device component to send and / or receive information. It is also possible to provide wireless communication independently for the second device component, as power can easily be supplied to the wireless communication unit via cables.
[0040] In particular, the wireless communication unit can be located further out in the linear motion direction than the power generation unit and / or the sensor unit.
[0041] This enables largely interference-free wireless communication. Signal interference from the communication unit by the sensor unit and / or the power generation unit can be prevented.
[0042] The wireless communication unit can, for example, be provided in an end section, in particular in an end cap that closes off a base body of the linear guide slide at the end, along the direction of linear motion.
[0043] In particular, the wireless communication unit may be exposed towards an outside of the second device component.
[0044] According to yet another aspect, the second device component can include an electronic control unit that is energetically coupled to the energy generation device.
[0045] The electronic control unit can control processes in the second device component, such as the power generation unit, the sensor unit, and / or the wireless communication, individually or in relation to each other. This control can be performed autonomously at the second device component, since the electrical energy can be supplied by the power generation unit.
[0046] Furthermore, the energy generation unit and / or the sensor unit and / or the wireless communication unit and / or the electronic control unit can be designed as modules. This allows for a simpler design. "Designed as modules" means that the respective elements (energy generation unit and / or the sensor unit and / or the wireless communication unit and / or the electronic control unit) can be mounted and / or dismounted as a unit on the second device component. This is particularly advantageous if the feedback device is provided as a separate element from the main body. The respective elements can each have their own housing. Several elements can also be combined in one module.The linear motion device can be designed as a linear guide with a guide rail as the first device component and a linear guide carriage or linear guide slide as the second device component. Alternatively, the linear motion device can be designed as a threaded drive with a threaded spindle as the first device component and a threaded nut as the second device component.
[0047] This allows the above effects to be achieved in a linear guide and in a screw drive.
[0048] Brief description of the drawings
[0049] The present invention is described below with reference to the drawings.
[0050] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a linear motion device, which is designed as a linear guide.
[0051] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a linear guide slide of the linear guide in a state reversed compared to Fig. 1.
[0052] Fig. 3 shows the linear guide carriage according to Fig. 2, with one base body removed. Fig. 4 shows two return tubes, one of which is equipped with a piezoelectric device.
[0053] Fig. 5 shows a front view along the linear guide direction on the linear guide slide with the end cap removed, with the return tubes of Fig. 4 provided.
[0054] Fig. 6 shows two return pipes, one of which is equipped with an induction device. Fig. 7A shows an exemplary arrangement of energy generation device and sensor unit.
[0055] Fig. 7B shows another exemplary arrangement of energy generation device and sensor unit.
[0056] Fig. 8A shows a perspective view of a linear motion device, which is designed as a threaded drive with a threaded spindle and a threaded nut.
[0057] Fig. 8B shows the screw drive according to Fig. 8A in a side view.
[0058] Fig. 80 shows the screw drive according to Fig. 8A in a side view as in Fig. 8B, wherein the threaded nut is shown in a longitudinal section and an arrangement of rolling elements designed as balls and an arrangement of an energy generation device and a sensor unit are visible.
[0059] Detailed description of exemplary embodiments
[0060] Unless otherwise stated, the same reference symbols are used for the same elements in the figures.
[0061] Fig. 1 shows a linear motion device 1, which in the present example is realized as a linear guide and comprises a first device component and a second device component, wherein the linear guide comprises a guide device 2 representing the first device component of the linear motion device 1 and a linear guide slide 3 representing the second device component of the linear motion device 1.
[0062] In the following, the linear motion device 1 will also be referred to as "linear guide 1".
[0063] The guide device 2 is designed here as a guide rail, which extends linearly in a guide direction A, represented in Fig. 1 by an arrow labeled "A". The guide device 2 includes a plurality of running surfaces 2a, which also extend linearly in the guide direction A. Two outer running surfaces 2a are provided on one side in a width direction transverse to the guide direction A, while two further outer running surfaces 2a are provided on the other side. The running surfaces 2a are arranged essentially symmetrically with respect to a central plane of the guide device 2 along the guide direction A. In a top view, two running surfaces 2a on each side with respect to the central plane are arranged in a V-shape in the width direction along the guide direction A.
[0064] The linear guide slide 3 of the linear guide 1 shown in Fig. 1 is shown separately in Fig. 2, but in an inverted state compared to the representation in Fig. 1. As can be seen from Figs. 1 and 2, the guide slide 3 essentially encompasses the guide unit 2 in an inverted U-shape. Two inner running surfaces 3a are formed on each of the two legs of the U-shape. The running surfaces are opposite each other in the width direction, with an insertion space formed between them into which the guide unit 2 is inserted. The guide unit 2 is inserted into the insertion space such that each running surface 2a interacts with each running surface 3a, with a plurality of rolling elements 4, as shown in Fig. 5, arranged between them.
[0065] The linear guide slide 3 can move linearly back and forth along the guide direction A relative to the guide device 2 via the rolling elements 4, the rolling elements moving between the running surface 3a and the running surface 2a. A relative plane of motion is defined by the guide direction A and the width direction. A “running surface 3a” of the linear guide slide 3 will alternatively be referred to as a “running section 3a” of the linear guide slide 3 in the following.
[0066] Since the guide carriage 3 is arranged on the guide device 2 such that the guide carriage 3 is linearly movable in the guide direction A with respect to the guide device 2 by means of the rolling elements 4, the term "linear direction of movement A" is used in the following as an alternative to the term "guide direction A". Each running surface 3a is part of a respective recirculating device 5, as shown schematically in longitudinal section in Figures 7A and 7B. Each running surface 3a of the linear guide carriage 3 extends linearly in the guide direction (linear direction of movement) A and has two opposite ends E1 and E2. In addition to the running surface 3a, the recirculating device 5 includes a return mechanism 6.The return mechanism 6 is continuous at both ends E1, E2 of the running surface 3a along the guide direction (linear motion direction) A and includes a return tube 6a that extends linearly and parallel to the running surface 3a along the guide direction (linear motion direction) A. The return tube 6 is shown, for example, in Figures 3, 4, and 6. The return tube 6a is located further out in the width direction (on one side facing away from the guide mechanism 2) with respect to the running surface 3a, and is thus spaced apart from it. Furthermore, the return mechanism 6 includes two curved sections 6b (see Figures 7A and 7B) that connect the running surface 3a and the return tube 6a on both sides in the guide direction (linear motion direction) A.
[0067] The curved sections 6b are convexly curved in a plane parallel to the plane of relative motion.
[0068] The entire rotating mechanism extends essentially parallel to the plane of relative motion.
[0069] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the linear guide slide 3 comprises a base body 31 and two end caps 32, which close off the base body 31 at both ends along the guide direction (linear direction of movement) A. The end caps 32 can be designed to be attached to and removed from the base body 31, i.e., as separate elements. The base body 31 is not shown in Figure 3. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the curved sections 6b are each provided in an end cap 32. The curved sections can be tubular and / or provided as separate elements from the end cap.
[0070] The recirculation device 6 enables the circulation of the rolling elements 4 from one end (E1 or E2) of the running section 3a in the guiding direction (linear motion direction) A to the other end (E2 or E1) of the running section 3a in the guiding direction (linear motion direction) A. The recirculation device 6 is designed to guide the circulation and completely surrounds the rolling elements 4. The recirculation device 6 is designed to be fluid-tight. Furthermore, a space between the running surface 3a and the corresponding running surface 2a of the guiding device 2 can be sealed.
[0071] It should be noted that the return tube 6a here corresponds to a linear section of a return device 6. In other words, the return tube 6a defines an essentially straight path for the rolling elements 4, in particular a centerline of the return tube 6a.
[0072] Fig. 4 shows an arrangement of only two return pipes 6a, which are assigned to two corresponding running surfaces 3a of the linear guide slide 3. This arrangement of two return pipes 6a shown in Fig. 4 forms part of the arrangement of a total of four return pipes 6a of the linear guide slide 3 shown in Fig. 3, which are shown in Fig. 3 together with the end caps 32 (but without a representation of the base body 31).
[0073] According to the invention, the linear guide slide 3 has an energy generation device 7. The energy generation device 7 can provide electrical energy by interacting with at least one rolling element 4. In particular, kinetic and / or potential energy of the rolling elements 4 can be converted into electrical energy.
[0074] In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, the energy generation device 7 comprises a piezoelectric device 8. The piezoelectric device 8 is configured such that an electrical voltage is generated when a force is applied to a deformation element. The deformation element can, in particular, deform elastically. Here, the deformation element can be a Piezo-Krista II. The piezoelectric device 8 can be arranged such that it receives a gravitational force from at least one rolling element, corresponding to an interaction section 9 of the feedback device 6, in particular the feedback tube 6a.
[0075] In Figures 3 and 4, the interaction section 9 is shown. Interaction section 9 is a section along the extension direction of the feedback device 6 in which the rolling elements interact with the energy generation device 7. The energy generation device 7 (piezoelectric device 8) is designed here as a module. The energy generation device 7 forms part of the feedback device 6, in particular an end section of the feedback tube 6a. Specifically, the piezoelectric device 8 can come into direct contact with the at least one rolling element 4 and thus receive the force. In other words, the energy generation device 7 can completely surround the at least one rolling element 4, thereby forming part of the feedback device 6.
[0076] Figures 3 and 4 further show a sensor unit 10, which is attached as a module to the feedback device 6, in particular to the feedback tube 6a. The sensor unit 10 is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the feedback device 6 and comprises a lubricant sensor that detects the quantity and / or composition of lubricant in the feedback device 6. The sensor unit 10 comprises two opposing electrodes 11, positive and negative, with the rolling elements 4 located between them. A lubricant in the feedback device 6 thus serves as a dielectric, which allows the determination of the quantity and / or composition of the lubricant. The electrodes extend parallel to the feedback tube 6a along a detection section 12, which corresponds to the length of the electrodes 11.
[0077] Here, the detection section 12 and the interaction section 9 are both provided in a common linear section of the feedback device 6 (in particular on a linear section of the feedback tube 6a), side by side in a direction parallel to the linear guide direction (linear movement direction) A. The detection section 12 is therefore offset relative to the interaction section 9 along the feedback device 6 (in the longitudinal direction of the feedback tube 6a).
[0078] It should be noted that the power generation unit 7 can be connected to the sensor unit 10 via electrical lines.
[0079] Furthermore, the return pipe 6a is provided here as an element separate from the base body 31 and is formed from the module of the energy generation unit 7 and a further pipe section, the module being attachable and removable. The module of the sensor unit 10 is attachable and removable from the further pipe section.
[0080] Figure 6 also shows two return tubes 6a as depicted in Figure 4. However, the energy generation unit 7 is configured differently in Figure 6. Here, the energy generation unit 7 comprises an induction unit 13.The induction device 13 can, for example, comprise: a permanent magnet for generating a static magnetic field in the interaction section 9, which at least one rolling element 4 must successively traverse during operation when circulating in the circulation device, wherein the rolling elements 4 are made of a magnetically permeable material, for example steel, such that the rolling elements are suitable to influence the magnetic field depending on the position of the rolling elements 4 in the interaction section; and at least one induction coil with at least one coil turn, wherein the at least one induction coil is arranged in a stationary position relative to the device for generating a static magnetic field such that, due to a change in the position of the rolling elements 4 during circulation of the rolling elements 4 through the interaction section 9, it experiences a change in magnetic flux which induces an electrical voltage in the at least one coil turn.
[0081] The energy generation device, in particular the induction device 13, can also be designed as a module and together with another pipe section of the return pipe 6a form the fluid-tight return pipe 6a.
[0082] Here too, the induction device 13 forms part of the return device 6, with the induction device 13 simultaneously taking over the guidance of the rolling elements.
[0083] It should be noted that in the examples described above, the rolling elements can be 4 cylindrical rollers.
[0084] Figures 7A and 7B show exemplary arrangements of the energy generation unit 7 / interaction section 9 and the sensor unit 10 / detection section 12, each in a section parallel to the plane of relative motion. In these figures, the rolling elements are shown as spheres. However, the arrangements are transferable to the embodiments described above. In Figure 7A, as shown above for Figures 4 and 6, the detection section 12 and the interaction section 9 are both completely offset from each other within a linear section of the feedback device 6. The energy generation unit 7 surrounds the rolling elements 4 and extends parallel to the feedback device 6. It should be noted that, as above, the energy generation unit can directly form the feedback device 6 or it can be located on an outer periphery of the feedback device 6. The sensor unit 10 also surrounds the rolling elements 4 and extends parallel to the feedback device 6.It should be noted that the sensor unit 10 can be provided on an external periphery of the feedback device 6 as above, or can directly form the feedback device 6.
[0085] The energy generation unit 7 surrounds the interaction section 9 at least partially, and in particular completely, in a section perpendicular to a direction of extension (here linear guidance direction or linear movement direction A) of the interaction section 9. Likewise, the sensor unit 10 surrounds the detection section 12 at least partially, and in particular completely, in a section perpendicular to a direction of extension (here linear guidance direction or linear movement direction A) of the detection section 12.
[0086] Sensor unit 10 and energy generation unit 7 can each extend partially on one side facing the guide device 2 with respect to the feedback tube 6a. Along the linear guide direction (linear movement direction) A, energy generation unit 7 and sensor unit 10 can overlap at least partially. In Fig. 7B, the interaction section 9 and the detection section 12 are provided in a curved section 6b of the feedback device 6. It should be noted that the energy generation unit can directly form the feedback device 6 (or at least a part of the feedback device 6) or can also be provided at an outer periphery of the feedback device 6. Similarly, the sensor unit 10 can be provided at an outer periphery of the feedback device 6 or directly form the feedback device 6 (or at least a part of the feedback device 6).The energy generation device 7 surrounds the interaction section 9 at least partially, and in particular completely, in a section perpendicular to one of the extension directions of the interaction section 9. Similarly, the sensor unit 10 surrounds the detection section 12 at least partially, and in particular completely, in a section perpendicular to one of the extension directions (here linear guide direction or linear movement direction A) of the detection section 12. In Fig. 7B, the sensor unit 10 is provided at least partially radially within the curved section 6b of the feedback device 6. However, in Figures 7A and 7B, the interaction section 9 / energy generation device 7 and the detection section 12 / sensor unit 10 can also exchange positions.
[0087] If the energy-generating device 7 includes the piezoelectric device and the interaction section 9 is located in the curved section 9, it is advantageous for the piezoelectric device to be located on the radially outer side in order to receive a centrifugal force. The piezoelectric device can also receive an elastic force if, for example, the rolling element is clamped.
[0088] Figures 7A and 7B also show a wireless communication unit 14. The wireless communication unit 14 is located further outwards than the power generation unit 7 and / or the sensor unit 10 in the direction of linear motion A. Here, the wireless communication unit 14 is exposed to the outside. The wireless communication unit can be connected to the power generation unit 7 and / or sensor unit 10 via cables. For example, the wireless communication unit 14 can transmit information detected by the sensor unit 10.
[0089] As shown in Fig. 7B, the sensor unit 10 and / or the power generation unit 7 can be provided in one end section, here the end cap 32. It is advantageous if the wireless communication unit is located in the other end section.
[0090] As explained above, electrical energy can be generated by interaction with at least one rolling element 4, in particular by converting the kinetic and / or potential energy of the at least one rolling element 4. Thus, the generation of electrical energy can be achieved simply by using components already present in a linear guide 1, especially by using the rolling elements 4. Furthermore, the interaction section 9 is located in the feedback device 6, i.e., not in the running section 3a. Therefore, the energy generation device 7 can be located on or partially formed by the feedback device 6 without interfering with other elements in the vicinity, such as the guide device. The energy generation device 7 can thus be easily implemented, and the linear guide slide 3 can be kept compact.Furthermore, the running section 3a can remain largely unaffected by the electrical energy generation, in particular the rolling elements 4 in the running section 3a. The force transmission and the relative movement between the guide device 2 and the linear guide slide 3 can therefore be reliably achieved. The arrangement of the detection section 12 and the sensor unit 10 also allows for a compact design of the linear guide slide 3.
[0091] Regardless of whether the energy generation unit 7 and / or the sensor unit 10 forms the feedback device 6 or is attached to it, at least a part of the energy generation unit 7 and / or the sensor unit 10 can be located on a side facing the guide device 2 in the area of a section of the feedback device 6 that extends furthest from the running section 3a in the lateral direction. This further promotes compactness.
[0092] The following additional features can be combined individually or in combination with the above specifications, provided the corresponding modification specified below is taken into account.
[0093] Although not shown, the linear guide carriage 3 can include an electronic control unit that is energetically coupled to the power generation unit, for example, via cables. The electronic control unit can contain a processor and perform control according to software. For control purposes, it can be coupled to the power generation unit 7, the sensor unit 10, and / or the wireless communication unit 14. The electronic control unit can control processes within the linear guide carriage 3, such as controlling the power generation unit 7, the sensor unit 10, and / or the wireless communication unit 14, individually or in relation to each other. This control can be performed autonomously at the linear guide carriage 3, since the electrical energy can be supplied by the power generation unit 7.
[0094] An energetic / electrical coupling between the power generation unit and the sensor unit and / or the wireless communication unit and / or the electronic control unit is possible not only via cables but also inductively. Furthermore, the linear guide carriage can include a storage element for electrical energy, such as a battery and / or capacitor, in which the power generation unit can store the electrical energy it generates. In this case, the energetic coupling is not direct with the power generation unit but indirect via the storage element.
[0095] The power generation device can include various circuit elements, such as rectifiers.
[0096] In the examples described above, sensor unit 10 includes a lubricant sensor. However, the sensor unit can alternatively or additionally include a temperature sensor and / or an inertial sensor. Multiple sensor units, each with different sensors and each provided as a module, can also be used.
[0097] Multiple interaction sections corresponding to multiple energy generation devices and multiple detection sections corresponding to multiple sensor units can also be provided in a circulation device, in particular in a feedback device.
[0098] At least one energy generation unit is provided above for use with only one feedback device. However, it can also be provided for multiple feedback devices. The same applies to the at least one sensor unit.
[0099] One of the detection section 12 and the interaction section 9 can be located in the linear section of the feedback device, while the other can be located in the curved section of the feedback device.
[0100] The running section 3a is shown as a planar surface. However, the running section can also represent a groove, for example for balls as rolling elements.
[0101] The energy generation device can also be arranged in such a way that it does not form the feedback device. For example, it can be positioned directly at the outer periphery of the feedback device. However, it can also be positioned at a distance from the feedback device, for example, if it includes an induction device.
[0102] The sensor unit can also form the feedback device and does not necessarily have to be located at the outer periphery. However, it can also be located at a distance from the outer periphery.
[0103] Figures 8A-8C show a linear motion device 100, which in the present example is realized as a threaded drive and comprises a first device component and a second device component, wherein the threaded drive comprises a threaded spindle 102 representing the first device component of the linear motion device 100 and a threaded nut 103 representing the second device component of the linear motion device 100.
[0104] In the following, the linear motion device 100 will also be referred to as the "threaded drive 100".
[0105] As can be seen from Figs. 8A-8C, the threaded spindle 102 has a linearly extending longitudinal axis LA and extends linearly along this longitudinal axis LA. The threaded nut 103 comprises a base body 131, which extends annularly around the threaded spindle 102 and accordingly has a substantially cylindrical cavity, which is bounded radially to the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102 by an inner wall 131a, such that the inner wall 131a extends annularly around the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102 at a distance from the outer periphery of the threaded spindle 102.
[0106] As indicated in Fig. 80, the threaded nut 103 is supported on the outer periphery of the threaded spindle 102 by a plurality of rolling elements 104, which in the present example are designed as balls, such that the threaded nut 103 moves linearly relative to the threaded spindle 102 in the direction of the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102 when the threaded spindle 102 performs a relative movement relative to the threaded nut 103, which corresponds to a rotation of the threaded spindle 102 relative to the threaded nut 103 about the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102. In other words, in the present example, it is assumed that the threaded nut 103 can be moved linearly in a linear direction A parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102 when the threaded spindle 102 is rotated relative to the threaded nut 103 about the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102 (this linear direction A is represented in Fig. 8A-8C by an arrow labeled “A”).
[0107] To enable the aforementioned relative movement of the threaded nut 103 relative to the threaded spindle 102 by means of the rolling elements 104, the threaded spindle 102 has an (external) thread on its outer periphery, which is designed as a groove 102a extending spirally around the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102. As indicated in Fig. 80, the groove 102a has a cross-sectional profile shaped such that the rolling elements 104 (designed as balls in this example) can roll in the longitudinal direction of the groove 102a and thereby move relative to the threaded spindle 102 on a spiral path around the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102. The groove 102a therefore forms a “running surface” or “running section” for the rolling elements 104 on the outer periphery of the threaded spindle 102, on which the “running surface” orThe groove 102a defines the "running section" on which the rolling elements 104 can move during a rotation of the threaded spindle 102 about its longitudinal axis LA. Therefore, the groove 102a will also be referred to as the "running surface 102a" or "running section 102a" of the threaded spindle 102 for the rolling elements 104.
[0108] To enable the aforementioned relative movement of the threaded nut 103 relative to the threaded spindle 102 by means of the rolling elements 104, the threaded nut 103 has an (internal) thread on its inner wall 131a, which is designed as a groove 103a extending spirally around the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102. As indicated in Fig. 80, the groove 103a has a cross-sectional profile shaped such that the rolling elements 104 can roll in the longitudinal direction of the groove 103a and thereby move relative to the threaded nut 103 on a spiral path around the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102. The groove 103a therefore forms a “running surface” for the rolling elements 104 on the inner wall 131a of the threaded nut 103, on which running surface the rolling elements 104 can move by rolling when the threaded spindle 102 is rotated about the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102.
[0109] In order to enable the aforementioned relative movement of the threaded nut 103 relative to the threaded spindle 102 by means of the rolling elements 104, the groove 102a of the threaded spindle 102 and the groove 103a of the threaded nut 103 are designed to correspond to each other such that those rolling elements 104, by means of which the threaded nut 103 is supported on the threaded spindle 102, are arranged on the one hand in a section of the groove 102a of the threaded spindle 102 and are in rolling contact with the threaded spindle 102 in this section of the groove 102a and are arranged on the other hand in a section of the groove 103a of the threaded nut 103 and are in rolling contact with the threaded nut 103 in this section of the groove 103a.
[0110] In order to enable the aforementioned relative movement of the threaded nut 103 relative to the threaded spindle 102 by means of the rolling elements 104, the threaded nut 103 additionally has a recirculation device 105, which together with the groove (or the running surface or running section) 102a of the threaded spindle 102 defines a “closed path” (hereinafter also “recirculation path”) for the rolling elements 104, along which closed path (recirculation path) the rolling elements 104 can circulate endlessly in an arrangement in which the individual rolling elements 104 are each arranged in a row one behind the other, when the threaded nut 103 is moved relative to the threaded spindle 102 in the linear direction of movement A.
[0111] The rotating device 105 comprises, on the one hand, a first section of the groove 103a, in which those rolling elements 104 are arranged in a row one behind the other, which are in both rolling contact with the threaded nut 103 and in rolling contact with the threaded spindle 102. This first section of the groove 103a, in which the rolling elements 104 are arranged in a row, which are in rolling contact with both the threaded nut 103 and the threaded spindle 102, shall in the following also be referred to as the “running section 103a” of the threaded nut 103 for the rolling elements 104. As indicated in Fig. 8C, the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 extends in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102 over a finite length between two opposite ends E1 and E2 of the running section 103a (the respective ends E1 and E2 are labelled “E1” and “E2” respectively in Fig. 80).Arrows marked “E2” are indicated).
[0112] As can be seen from Fig. 80, the circulation device 105 comprises – in addition to the aforementioned running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 – a return device 106. The return device 106 comprises a section of the circulation path for the rolling elements 104, which connects one end E1 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 with the other end E2 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103. In this way, the return device 106 is designed to return, during the aforementioned relative movement of the threaded nut 103 relative to the threaded spindle 102, those rolling elements 104 which leave the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 at one end (e.g., at end E1) during the circulation of the rolling elements 104 along the circulation path, to the other end (e.g., to end E2) of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103.
[0113] As can be seen from Fig. 80, the return device 106 in the present example comprises a section 106a, which is designed as a through channel for rolling elements 104 extending through the base body 131 along the longitudinal axis LA of the threaded spindle 102.Furthermore, in the present example, the recirculation device 106 has two sections 106b, each comprising a section of the circulation path of the rolling elements 104, wherein one of the sections 106b comprises a section of the circulation path of the rolling elements 104 which connects the end E1 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 with an end (close to the end E1 of the running section 103a) of the section 106a of the recirculation device 106, and wherein the other of the sections 106b comprises a section of the circulation path of the rolling elements 104 which connects the end E2 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 with the other end (close to the end E2 of the running section 103a) of the section 106a of the recirculation device 106.
[0114] As indicated in Fig. 8C, in the present example, the sections 106b of the recirculation device 106 can be realized in separate components 107, which components 107 are formed separately from the base body 131 and are to be mounted on the base body 131 in order to provide, on the one hand, the aforementioned connection between the section 106a of the recirculation device 106 and the end E1 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103, and on the other hand, the aforementioned connection between the section 106a of the recirculation device 106 and the end E2 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103. As indicated in Fig. 8C, the section 106a of the recirculation device 106 can (optionally) extend such that the section 106a provides a linearly extending section of the circulation path of the rolling elements 104, so that in this case the section 106a acts as a a “linear section” of the feedback device 106 would be formed.
[0115] In contrast, sections 106b of the return device 106 each provide a section of the orbital path of the rolling elements 104 extending along a curved line and therefore each form a “curved section” of the return device 106 (Fig. 8C).
[0116] As indicated in Fig. 8C, the threaded nut 103 of the linear motion device (the threaded drive) 100 can be equipped - in an analogous manner to the linear guide slide 3 of the linear motion device (linear guide) 1 described above - with a power generation device 7 and a sensor unit 10 (which can be supplied with electrical energy by means of the power generation device 7).
[0117] The energy generation device 7 can provide electrical energy through interaction with at least one rolling element 104. In particular, kinetic and / or potential energy of the rolling elements 104 can be converted into electrical energy.
[0118] Analogous to the linear motion device 1 shown in Figures 3 and 4, the energy generation unit 7 of the linear motion device 100 can include a piezoelectric unit 8 (not shown in Figures 8A-8C). In the case of the linear motion device 100, the piezoelectric unit 8 can be configured such that an electrical voltage is provided when a force is applied to a deformation element. The deformation element can, in particular, deform elastically. Here, the deformation element can be a Piezo-Krista II. The piezoelectric unit 8 can be arranged such that it receives a force from at least one rolling element 104 in an interaction section 9 of the feedback device 106.
[0119] In Fig. 8C, the interaction section 9 is shown. In this example, the interaction section 9 extends along a section of section 106a of the feedback device 106. The interaction section 9 is a section along the extension direction of the feedback device 106 in which the rolling elements 104 interact with the energy generation device 7. The energy generation device 7 (piezoelectric device 8) is designed here as a module. The energy generation device 7 forms part of the feedback device 106. In particular, the piezoelectric device 8 can come into direct contact with the at least one rolling element 104 and thus receive the force. In other words, the energy generation device 7 can completely surround the at least one rolling element 104, thereby forming part of the feedback device 106.
[0120] Analogous to the linear motion device 1 shown in Fig. 6, the energy generation device 7 of the linear motion device 100 can comprise an induction device 13 (not shown in Fig. 8A-8C).
[0121] The induction device 13 can, for example, comprise: a permanent magnet for generating a static magnetic field in the interaction section 9, which at least one rolling element 104 must traverse successively during operation when circulating in the circulation device, wherein the rolling elements 104 are made of a magnetically permeable material, for example steel, so that the rolling elements are suitable to influence the magnetic field depending on the position of the rolling elements 104 in the interaction section 9;and at least one induction coil with at least one coil turn, wherein the at least one induction coil is arranged in a stationary position relative to the device for generating a static magnetic field such that, due to a change in the position of the rolling elements 104 during a circulation of the rolling elements 4 through the interaction section 9, it experiences a change in magnetic flux which induces an electrical voltage in the at least one coil turn.
[0122] The energy generation unit 7 of the linear motion device 100, in particular the induction unit 13, can also be designed as a module. Here too, the induction unit 13 forms part of the feedback device 106, with the induction unit 13 simultaneously guiding the rolling elements 104.
[0123] Figure 8C further shows a sensor unit 10, which is attached as a module to the feedback device 106, in particular to section 106a of the feedback device 106. The sensor unit 10 is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the feedback device 106 and can (analogous to the sensor unit 10 of the linear guide slide 3 of the linear motion device 1 shown in Figures 3 and 4) comprise, for example, a lubricant sensor that detects a quantity and / or composition of lubricant in the feedback device 106. Accordingly, the sensor unit 10 can comprise two opposing electrodes 11, with the rolling elements 104 located between them. A lubricant in the feedback device 106 thus serves as a dielectric, which allows the determination of the quantity and / or composition of the lubricant.The electrodes extend along a detection section 12 of the feedback device 106, the length of which corresponds to the length of the electrodes 11. In Fig. 8C, the detection section 12 and the interaction section 9 are both provided in section 106a of the feedback device 106, with the detection section 12 and the interaction section 9 arranged one behind the other in the linear direction of movement A. The detection section 12 is thus offset relative to the interaction section 9 in the direction of the longitudinal extent of section 106a of the feedback device 106.
[0124] It should be noted that the power generation unit 7 can be connected to the sensor unit 10 via electrical lines (to supply the sensor unit 10 with electrical energy).
[0125] The energy generation device 7 and / or the sensor unit 10 of the linear motion device 100 can alternatively also be arranged on the threaded nut 103 such that the interaction section 9 of the energy generation device 7 and / or the detection section 12 of the sensor unit 10 are placed in one of the (curved) sections 106b of the feedback device 106.
[0126] The return device 106 can alternatively be designed as a separate component, separate or separable from the base body 131, which encloses a section of the circulation path for the rolling elements 104, connecting one end E1 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103 with the other end E2 of the running section 103a of the threaded nut 103. Such a component can, for example, be tubular or composed of several tubular sections.
[0127] The threaded nut 103 of the linear motion device (the threaded drive) 100 can be equipped – similarly to the guide slide 3 of the linear motion device 1 shown in Figs. 7A and 7B – with a wireless communication unit (not shown in Figs. 8A-8C, functionally corresponding to the communication unit 14), which can be connected via cables to the power generation unit 7 and / or sensor unit 10 and can, for example, be configured to wirelessly transmit information detected by the sensor unit 10. Such a communication unit can, for example, be attached to the base body 131.
Claims
24 Patent claims 1. Linear motion device (1, 100) comprising a first device component (2, 102) and a second device component (3, 103), wherein the second device component (3, 103) is supported on the first device component (2, 102) via rolling elements (4, 104) such that the second device component (3, 103) is linearly movable relative to the first device component (2, 102) along a linear motion direction (A), wherein the second device component (3, 103) comprises: - a running section (3a, 103a) between which and the first device component (2, 102) a plurality of rolling elements (4, 104) are movable in order to allow the second device component (3, 103) to move relative to the first device component (2, 102); - a return device (6, 106) configured to return the plurality of rolling elements (, 104) from one end (E1) of the running section (3a, 103a) to the other end (E2) of the running section (3a, 103a); and - an energy generation device (7) configured to provide electrical energy by interaction with at least one rolling element (4, 104) in an interaction section (9) of the feedback device (6, 106).
2. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the interaction section (9) is located in a linear section (6a) of the feedback device (6), in particular in a linear section (6a) extending parallel to the linear motion direction (A).
3. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the interaction section (9) is located in a curved section (6b) of the return device (6).
4. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy generation device (7) comprises an induction device (13).
5. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy generation device (7) comprises a piezoelectric device (8).
6. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sensor unit (10) which is energetically coupled to the energy generation device (7).
7. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to claim 6, wherein the sensor unit (10) is designed to detect a property in the feedback device (6) in a detection section (12) of the feedback device (6).
8. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to claim 7, wherein the detection section (12) is located in a linear section (6a) of the feedback device (6).
9. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the detection section (12) is located at a position offset from the interaction section (9).
10. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second device component (3, 103) has a base body (31, 131), and the return device (6) is designed to be separate from the base body (31, 131) at least in the interaction section (9) and / or in the detection section (12).
11. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a wireless communication unit (14) which is energetically coupled to the power generation device (7).
12. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to claim 11, wherein the wireless communication unit (14) is located further out along the linear motion direction (A) than the power generation unit (7) and / or the sensor unit (10).
13. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an electronic control device which is energetically coupled to the energy generation device (7).
14. Linear motion device (1, 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy generation device (7) and / or the sensor unit (10) and / or the wireless communication unit (14) and / or the electronic control device are designed as modules.
15. Linear motion device (1) according to one of claims 1-14, designed as a linear guide with a guide rail as the first device component (2) and with a linear guide carriage or linear guide slide as the second device component (3).
16. Linear motion device (100) according to one of claims 1-14, designed as a threaded drive with a threaded spindle as the first device component (102) and with a threaded nut as the second device component (103).