Linear Module Sealing Band Rolling Contact for Clean Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear modules suffer from deformation and wear of the sealing band, leading to reduced motion smoothness, accuracy, and stability, as well as leakage of particles and vapors, which compromise the cleanliness of the fabrication environment and equipment.
Innovation Solution
The linear module incorporates a first and second rolling mechanism on either side of the sealing band, which are in rolling contact with it, reducing friction and wear, and a magnetic strip-covered sealing band to enhance sealing and collect metal particles, minimizing particle escape and maintaining cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing band is used to seal the output opening, then dust ingress and vapor egress are prevented, but the sealing band deforms and wears over time, reducing motion smoothness and accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional sliding contact mechanism with a rolling contact mechanism by introducing rolling elements (balls or rollers) between the sealing band and the slide table. This substitution transforms the friction type from sliding friction to rolling friction, significantly reducing wear and deformation of the sealing band while maintaining effective sealing, thus preserving motion accuracy and smoothness over time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the friction parameter by introducing rolling elements that convert sliding friction into rolling friction. This parameter change reduces the coefficient of friction between the sealing band and the moving components, minimizing deformation and wear of the sealing band, thereby maintaining motion accuracy and sealing performance throughout the device's operational life
2Reliability
If the sealing band is in direct contact with the moving components, then sealing is effective, but friction and wear increase, generating particles that escape and affect cleanliness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct sliding contact between the sealing band and moving components with a rolling contact system using rolling elements. This substitution dramatically reduces friction and wear, minimizing the generation of metal particles and other contaminants while maintaining effective sealing, thus preserving fabrication environment cleanliness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rolling elements (balls or rollers) as intermediary components between the sealing band and the slide table. These intermediaries carry the load and enable relative motion through rolling contact, reducing direct friction and wear between the sealing band and moving components, thereby minimizing particle generation while maintaining sealing effectiveness
3Device complexity
If the sealing band remains stationary, then structure is simple, but it cannot follow the movement of the linear transmission device, reducing sealing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the stationary sealing band into a dynamic configuration by attaching it to the moving slide table or by using rolling elements that move with the slide table. This dynamic arrangement allows the sealing band to continuously follow the movement of the linear transmission device, maintaining effective sealing contact throughout the motion range without significantly increasing structural complexity
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 design ensures high accuracy, stability, and cleanliness by reducing frictional resistance and particle generation, preventing degradation of the sealing band and maintaining the module's sealing performance, thereby protecting the environment and equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a first rolling mechanism which is moveable in synchronization with the linear transmission device, the first rolling mechanism is arranged on a side of the sealing band that is away from the internal cavity, and the first rolling mechanism is in rolling contact with the sealing band
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a linear module, which includes a casing, and a linear transmission device (20). The casing has an internal cavity, in which the linear transmission device (20) is at least partially disposed, and an output opening (31) which extends along a movement direction of the linear transmission device (20) defined on the case. A sealing band (32) is arranged at the output opening (31). The linear module further includes a first rolling mechanism (50) which is moveable in synchronization with the linear transmission device (20) and is arranged on a side of the sealing band (32) which is away from the internal cavity. The first rolling mechanism (50) is in rolling contact with the sealing band (32). This linear module enables high cleanliness and has good sealing performance, high accuracy and high stability.