Linear Scale Using Low Expansion Ceramics to Reduce Thermal Deformation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear scales for displacement measurement face challenges in maintaining measurement accuracy due to changes in the scale table's form caused by thermal stress, which can lead to increased manufacturing costs and complexity, particularly when requiring a holder for fixation.
Innovation Solution
A linear scale made of low expansion ceramics with a graduation unit fixed to its surface and an attachment unit that directly fastens the scale board to a base member, eliminating the need for a holder and allowing for accurate measurement while reducing production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a holder is used to fix the scale table to absorb form changes, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the holder component from the scale structure. By using a scale table made of low expansion ceramic material, the function of absorbing form changes is transferred from the holder to the material properties of the scale table itself, eliminating the need for a separate holder and reducing structural complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter of the scale table from conventional materials (glass or ferrous metal) to low expansion ceramic material. This parameter change enables the scale table to inherently resist thermal stress and form changes, eliminating the need for external compensation mechanisms like holders
2Stability of the object's composition
If a holder is used to fix the scale table, then form changes are absorbed, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is extracted from the structure, and its function is integrated into the scale table material itself. The low expansion ceramic material inherently provides form stability without requiring additional components, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses low expansion ceramic material for the scale table, which is a specialized material designed to resist thermal stress and maintain dimensional stability. This material choice eliminates the need for composite structures involving holders, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
3Reliability
If a holder is used with elastic adhesive, then the scale table is fixed, but additional components and positioning requirements increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The holder and elastic adhesive are removed from the structure. The low expansion ceramic scale table is directly fixed to the base member using conventional adhesives, eliminating intermediate components and simplifying the fixation system while maintaining reliability through material properties
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
The use of low expansion ceramics minimizes aged deterioration and deformation, enabling high-accuracy displacement measurements without additional holders, resulting in a simpler and more cost-effective manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
a scale board that is made of low expansion ceramics
Data Source
AI summary
A linear scale that is used for displacement measurement is provided. The linear scale includes a scale board, a graduation unit, and an attachment unit. The scale board is made of low expansion ceramics. The graduation unit is fixed to an upper surface of the scale board. The graduation unit is read at the time of measurement. The attachment unit is a unit for attaching the scale board to a base member.