Linear Guide Connector Cover Reduces Assembly Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of linear guides is complicated due to the increased number of parts in the rolling element retainer, which affects efficiency and cost.
Innovation Solution
A motion device with a frame-shaped cover member fixed to the lid bodies using a snap-fit method, reducing the number of parts and simplifying assembly by integrating the connector cover body along the rolling element surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rolling element retainer consisting of multiple members is attached to end caps, then the rolling element can be prevented from separating, but assembly time increases and assembly efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple retainer members into a single integrated retainer component that is pre-mounted on the end cap. This merging of multiple parts into one reduces the number of assembly steps while maintaining the retention function, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and assembly efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is pre-assembled and integrated onto the end cap before final assembly. This preliminary action of combining multiple components in advance eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly, improving productivity while ensuring proper retention functionality
2Reliability
If a rolling element retainer consisting of multiple members is used, then the rolling element can be prevented from separating, but the number of parts increases and product cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple retainer members into a single integrated component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation lowers manufacturing complexity and product cost while maintaining the necessary retention reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated retainer structure serves multiple functions within a single component design, reducing the need for separate specialized parts. This multi-functionality approach simplifies manufacturing and reduces overall product cost while ensuring reliable rolling element retention
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
This solution reduces assembly time and product costs while maintaining the functionality of the linear guide, improving assembly efficiency and repairability.
Implementation Method 1
the frame-shaped cover member may be fixed to the pair of the lid bodies by a snap-fit method
Implementation Method 2
the connection sections may be elastically deformed when the snap-fit engagement sections engage with the snap-fit engaged sections
Data Source
AI summary
A motion device (1) includes a track rail (10), a moving body (21), a plurality of rolling elements (70) rolling in an endless circulation passage formed at the track rail (10) and the moving body (21), a pair of lid bodies (50) attached to end surfaces of the moving body (21) in a movement direction thereof, and a connector cover body (80) disposed along a rolling element rolling surface (28) formed at the moving body (21) to cover a rolling element connector (72) connecting and holding the rolling elements (70). The connector cover body (80) has a frame-shaped cover member (86) which is fixed to the pair of the lid bodies (50) to be integrally disposed at both ends of the rolling element rolling surface (28) in a width direction thereof.