Ball Screw Preload Adjustment Without Disassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current double-nut ball screw devices require disassembly for adjusting offset preload, increasing operation time and cost, and affecting production capacity due to manufacturing tolerances and the need for component replacement.
Innovation Solution
A linear motion system with a preload adjusting module that includes a preload assembly and regulator, allowing for adjustment of preload values without disassembly, using a thrust mechanism to adjust the preload applied by rolling members, and incorporating a preload sensing member and monitoring device for real-time feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a preload spacer is disposed between two nuts to provide offset preload, then the preload between nuts is achieved, but the total number of components increases and positioning accuracy deteriorates due to manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The preload spacer is extracted and replaced by a preload adjusting module that integrates the adjustment function into the existing nut structure. The module includes an adjusting member with threads that engage with the nut, allowing preload adjustment without adding separate spacer components between nuts.
Solution Approach 2:
The preload adjustment function is merged with the nut structure itself. The adjusting member is disposed on one of the nuts and tightly fitted to its periphery, combining the preload application and adjustment functions into a unified structure rather than using separate components.
2Reliability
If the ball screw device is disassembled to adjust or replace components for preload correction, then the preload can be corrected, but operation time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The preload adjusting module enables operators to perform preload adjustment themselves without requiring disassembly of the ball screw device. The adjusting member can be operated directly on the mounted device, allowing self-service maintenance and adjustment that eliminates time-consuming disassembly and reassembly operations.
3Reliability
If conventional disassembly methods are used for preload adjustment, then component replacement and offset correction are possible, but production capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting member allows operators to perform preload adjustments directly on the mounted ball screw device without stopping production for disassembly. This self-service capability enables quick correction of preload issues during operation, minimizing production interruptions and maintaining high production capacity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables adjustment of offset preload values without disassembling the device, reducing operation time and cost, and minimizing impact on production capacity while maintaining high positioning accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The preload regulator applies a thrust to the preload assembly to adjust a preload value generated by the rolling members and applied to the moving member
Implementation Method 2
The balls are capable of rolling with relative to the screw and the nut, thereby reducing the relative rotation friction between the screw and the nut
Data Source
AI summary
A linear motion system comprises a guiding member, a moving member, a plurality of rolling members and a preload adjusting module. The moving member is slidably disposed on the guiding member. The moving member and the guiding member together form a circulation path. When the guiding member moves with relative to the moving member, the moving member can generate a linear movement with relative to the guiding member. The rolling members are accommodated in the circulation path. The preload adjusting module is disposed on the moving member, and comprises a preload assembly and a preload regulator. The preload regulator applies a thrust to the preload assembly to adjust a preload value generated by the rolling members and applied to the moving member.