Linear Guideway Ball Jam Detection via Non-Load Passage Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional linear guideways face challenges in real-time detection of abnormal ball circulation states due to preload between the slider and rail, making it difficult for sensors installed on the load path to effectively sense ball jam conditions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating force sensors at the ends of non-load passages in the linear guideway, which form circulation channels with load passages, allowing for real-time detection of abnormal force-receiving states caused by ball jamming, particularly at turning points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are installed on the load path to sense ball circulation, then measurement capability is improved, but the preload between slider and rail prevents effective detection of ball jam conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces non-load passages as intermediary channels that allow ball circulation independent of the preload-affected load path. Force sensors monitor these intermediary passages where balls can be detected without the interference of preload forces, effectively mediating between the need for ball circulation and accurate jam detection
Solution Approach 2:
The circulation channel is segmented into load passages and non-load passages. The non-load passages are specifically designed to be free from preload effects, creating a separate detection zone where force sensors can accurately sense ball presence and circulation status without the confounding factor of constant preload forces
2Reliability
If force sensors are installed at turning points of circulation channels, then detection of ball jam conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Force sensors are strategically placed only at critical locations (turning points of non-load passages) where ball jam conditions are most likely to occur and can be most effectively detected. This localized sensing approach provides maximum detection reliability with minimum sensor quantity, avoiding unnecessary sensors in other regions
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 accurate and timely diagnosis of circulation problems by sensing abnormal force-receiving signals from the force sensors, improving the detection of ball jam conditions compared to prior art.
Implementation Method 1
The force sensors are disposed at two ends of the two non-load passages in a paired manner for sensing the force-receiving state of the two non-load passages when the two non-load passages are impacted by the balls.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear guideway includes a rail, a slider disposed on the rail, and a load passage formed between the rail and the slider. The slider has two non-load passages penetrating through two opposite end surfaces of the slider. Each of two ends of each non-load passage is provided with a force sensor. Two end caps are disposed on two opposite end surfaces of the slider respectively and each have two circulation grooves. Each circulation groove is connected to an end of the load passage and an end of the non-load passage to form a circulation channel for balls to move therein. As a result, the linear guideway of the present invention employs force sensors to sense the force-receiving state of two ends of the non-load passages when they are impacted by the balls, so that it can be determined that if the balls have an abnormal pressing state.