Integrated Guide Linear Actuator for Stable Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators in robotic welding and automated machine tool systems face challenges in maintaining positional stability under mechanical and current loads, leading to deflection and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A guide assembly with a guide shaft and bridge coupling is integrated into the linear actuator system, providing positional stability by limiting off-axis deflection through a radially constrained connection between the thrust tube and guide shaft, which moves reciprocally with the thrust tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a linear actuator is used to position a machine tool, then positioning capability is achieved, but positional stability deteriorates under mechanical and current loads causing deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is divided into functional segments: a thrust tube for linear motion, a guide shaft for stability, and a bridge coupling to connect them. This segmentation allows each component to specialize - the thrust tube provides motion while the guide shaft resists deflection, solving the contradiction between positioning capability and positional stability under load
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge coupling acts as an intermediary element between the thrust tube and guide shaft. It transfers the reciprocating motion from the thrust tube to the guide shaft while maintaining their structural connection, enabling the guide shaft to stabilize the thrust tube without interfering with its linear motion function
2Reliability
If the thrust tube is made stiffer to reduce deflection, then positional stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide shaft and thrust tube are merged into a coordinated reciprocating system through the bridge coupling. Both components move together in unison, allowing the guide shaft to provide stiffness and stability without requiring the thrust tube itself to be overly complex or bulky
Solution Approach 2:
The guide shaft serves multiple functions: it provides radial support to reduce deflection, maintains positional stability under load, and reciprocates with the thrust tube to ensure synchronized motion. This multi-functionality achieves positional stability without adding excessive structural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus or actuator system having a motor, a housing and a thrust rod or thrust tube, where the actuator is configured to convert rotational motion of the motor into axial motion of the thrust tube for axial motion of a tool coupling therewith. A guide assembly is coupled to the actuator housing, extending along an axis thereof. The guide assembly comprises a guide shaft and a coupling between the guide shaft and the thrust tube, and is configured to provide positional stability for the tool coupling when positioned along the actuator axis by motion of the thrust tube.