Linear Guide Lubricant Member Replacement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear guide apparatuses require significant labor and time to replace lubricant application members, especially when the lubricant content is low, due to the need to remove and reattach fixing screws, and this process becomes even more challenging in configurations like slide table apparatuses where access is restricted.
Innovation Solution
A linear guide apparatus design that includes a lubricant application member with a pressing member engaging the slider's side surface for fixation, eliminating the need to remove bolts and allowing for easier replacement without disassembling the slide table, using a pivot shaft and support plate for secure attachment and a lubricant application member replacement jig for efficient handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If fixing screws are used to attach the lubricant application member to the end cap, then the lubricant application member is securely fixed, but the replacement of the lubricant application member requires significant labor and time
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing mechanism is segmented into a pressing member with pressing portions that contact the lubricant application member and a support plate with pressing member fixing portions. This segmentation allows the pressing member to be independently attached to the end cap while the lubricant application member is separately attached to the pressing member, enabling tool-free replacement without removing screws from the end cap itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member is designed to be detachably attached to the end cap, allowing it to be dynamically reconfigured for replacement operations. The pressing member can be easily detached and reattached without requiring screw removal, enabling quick replacement of the lubricant application member while maintaining secure fixation during operation.
2Reliability
If the lubricant application member is fixed with multiple fixing screws, then the fixation is reliable, but the replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing screw attachment is extracted from the end cap and relocated to the pressing member. The pressing member fixing portions are provided on the support plate, allowing the pressing member to be securely attached to the end cap through simple engagement. This extraction enables the lubricant application member to be replaced by only detaching the pressing member, significantly simplifying the replacement process while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component that secures the lubricant application member. Instead of using multiple permanent fixing screws, the pressing member can be quickly detached and discarded or reset, enabling rapid replacement of the lubricant application member without complex disassembly procedures.
3Strength
If the slide table is fixed to the slider main body, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the lubricant application member cannot be replaced without removing the slide table
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is segmented into three independent components: the end cap attached to the slider main body, the pressing member attached to the end cap, and the lubricant application member attached to the pressing member. This segmentation allows the lubricant application member to be replaced by detaching only the pressing member, without requiring removal of the slide table from the slider main body, thus maintaining structural integrity while simplifying the replacement procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member acts as an intermediary component between the end cap and the lubricant application member. This intermediary structure allows the lubricant application member to be secured and replaced independently of the slide table assembly, eliminating the need to remove the slide table for replacement operations while maintaining secure fixation during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A side seal fixing unit 24, which is made up of a U-shaped pressing member 25 which presses and holds a side seal 20 against a lubricant application member 22, a pivot shaft 26 provided at one end portion of the pressing of the pressing member 25 along a height diection of a guide rail 10 and a support plate 27 which supports rotatably the pressing member 25 via the pivot shafty 26 is provided between an end cap 17 and the lubricant application member 22.