Liquid Seal Waterproofing for Machine Tool Gaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional waterproof/dustproof structures for precise machine tools, like labyrinths, require high precision and increased costs due to narrow gaps between stationary and movable members, which still allow foreign matter to enter and obstruct movement.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof/dustproof structure using a liquid reservoir filled with hydraulic or machining fluid to seal the gap between stationary and movable members, allowing for broader gaps and reduced precision requirements without obstructing movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a narrow gap is formed between stationary and movable members to prevent foreign matter entry, then waterproof/dustproof performance is improved, but manufacturing precision and assembly cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a liquid seal as an intermediary substance filling the gap between stationary and movable members. This liquid mediator prevents foreign matter entry while allowing larger gaps, thereby resolving the contradiction between waterproof performance and manufacturing precision requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes hydraulic principles by employing liquid pressure to maintain the seal in the gap. The liquid under pressure effectively blocks foreign matter while accommodating larger dimensional tolerances, improving both waterproof performance and ease of manufacture
2Reliability
If a labyrinth structure is used to seal the gap, then foreign matter entry is reduced, but the structure complexity and assembly steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing function from the mechanical labyrinth structure and transfers it to a liquid seal system. This simplifies the overall structure by eliminating complex labyrinthine passages while maintaining sealing effectiveness through the liquid barrier
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical labyrinth sealing mechanism with a hydraulic/liquid-based sealing system. This substitution reduces structural complexity while achieving comparable or superior sealing performance through fluid dynamics
3Reliability
If an air curtain flow mechanism is used to prevent foreign matter entry, then dustproof performance is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a complex pneumatic air curtain system to a simpler liquid-based sealing system. Both utilize fluid dynamics, but the liquid seal requires less complex generation and control mechanisms compared to maintaining a controlled air flow curtain
4Manufacturing precision
If contact between stationary and movable members is avoided for precise movement, then movement precision is improved, but gap sealing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs liquid seal as an intermediary that fills the gap between non-contacting stationary and movable members. This allows precise movement without contact while simultaneously providing reliable sealing against foreign matter entry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the sealing medium to liquid, which can adapt to varying gap dimensions caused by movement. This maintains sealing reliability across different positions while preserving movement precision
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
Completely seals the apparatus from foreign matter, reduces manufacturing and assembly costs, and maintains precise movement without the need for special flow paths or circulation equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid reservoir containing liquid in the gap region to shield the interior of the apparatus from the exterior
Data Source
AI summary
A simple, inexpensive waterproof/dustproof structure for a movable mechanism such as a machine tool apparatus or the like, providing a liquid reservoir formed between the inner wall of a stationary member and the outer wall of a movable member at a portion equivalent to the entrance of a gap between the stationary member and the movable member. The leading edge of the movable member moves through a liquid LQ that fills the liquid reservoir. The liquid LQ seals off the interior of the apparatus from the exterior to prevent the entry of mist, dust and other foreign matter. The gap may be made comparatively broad without affecting the ability to prevent the entry of foreign matter. The direction of movement of the movable member may be longitudinal, lateral, reciprocal, rotary, or a combination thereof, depending on the type of movable mechanism to which the waterproof/dustproof structure is applied. The liquid LQ may be a working fluid used by a hydraulic bearing or a machining fluid used by a machine tool.