Elastic Spindle Drive Coupling for Low-Friction Precision Motion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive systems with piezoelectric actuators face challenges in achieving high accuracy and efficient operation due to frictional losses and the need for separate spindle support devices, which can reduce efficiency and increase manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A drive system comprising at least two drive units with a coupling device that uses spring devices to stably support and actuate a spindle, eliminating the need for separate spindle support components and reducing frictional losses, while utilizing multilayer actuators or piezo actuators for precise motion control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If separate spindle support devices are used, then spindle stability is improved, but frictional losses increase and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spindle support function with the drive units by integrating bearing elements directly into the drive unit structure. The bearing elements are pressed resiliently against the rotor, allowing the drive units to both actuate and support the spindle, thereby eliminating separate support devices and reducing frictional losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive units are designed to perform multiple functions: both actuating the spindle and providing spindle support. Each drive unit includes bearing elements that provide radial support to the rotor, making the drive units universal components that eliminate the need for dedicated support devices.
2Stability of the object's composition
If separate spindle support devices are used, then spindle stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spindle support function into the drive units themselves. The bearing elements are integrated into the drive unit structure, eliminating separate support devices and simplifying the overall system architecture, manufacturing, and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive units are designed as multi-functional components that both actuate and support the spindle. This universality reduces the total number of components needed, simplifying device complexity while maintaining stability.
3Manufacturing precision
If piezoelectric actuators are used, then positioning accuracy is improved, but frictional losses from separate support devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the high-precision piezoelectric actuation with integrated spindle support in the same drive units. This eliminates the need for separate support devices that would introduce additional friction, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy while reducing energy losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive units serve dual purposes: providing precise positioning through piezoelectric actuators and supporting the spindle through integrated bearing elements. This multi-functionality achieves both high accuracy and low frictional losses.
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
The system achieves improved accuracy and efficiency by integrating actuation and support functions, minimizing friction and simplifying assembly, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the drive system.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling device which elastically couples the at least two drive units to one another in the direction of the spindle accommodating axis, the coupling device comprising at least one spring device
Implementation Method 2
The piezo elements can cause the bearing ring to rotate in order to drive the spindle
Data Source
AI summary
Drive system(S), comprising at least two drive units (1, 2) each for receiving and driving a spindle (90) with a spindle axis (A90), at least one coupling device (K) which elastically couples the two drive units (1, 2) to each other in the direction of the spindle accommodating axis (AA), each coupling device (K) comprising at least one spring device, which, in each case in an unstressed neutral state in which no spindle (90) is accommodated in the drive system (S), holds the two drive units (1, 2) in each case stably at a predetermined distance (D12) and provides a spring travel in each case from the neutral state in mutually opposite directions along the spindle accommodating axis (AA), as well as an adjustment system (A) and drive motor (M).