Magnetic Dual-Axis Linear Guidance for Zero-Clearance Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing guidance systems for precision positioning applications are not suitable due to lack of rigidity, high displacement forces required, temperature dependence, and high manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A guidance system with a linear actuator, featuring a main and secondary guide axis, utilizing rolling bodies guide devices and magnetic forces to minimize clearance, thereby enabling precise positioning with reduced displacement forces and temperature independence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional guidance systems with single guide axis are used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision deteriorates and rigidity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The guidance system is segmented into two independent guide axes (main guide axis and secondary guide axis), each with its own rolling bodies guide device. This segmentation allows each axis to independently constrain specific degrees of freedom, achieving superior positioning precision through combined action while keeping each individual axis relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-guide-axis system to a dual-guide-axis system, adding a new dimensional aspect to the guidance structure. The secondary guide axis complements the main guide axis by constraining different degrees of freedom, thereby enhancing overall positioning precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Strength
If traditional guidance systems are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but rigidity and positioning precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the guidance function into two separate axes with independent rolling bodies guide devices, each component can be manufactured using standard processes with relaxed tolerances. The cumulative effect of both axes provides enhanced rigidity, allowing the use of more cost-effective manufacturing methods while achieving superior overall performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the structural parameters by introducing a second guide axis and associated rolling bodies, which modifies the system's rigidity characteristics. This parameter change enables the use of more economical manufacturing approaches for individual components while the combined system delivers the required rigidity and precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If clearance is present in guide axes, then ease of assembly is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic force mechanism changes the interaction parameter between guide axes and rolling bodies from contact-based to field-based. By utilizing magnetic attraction, the system can accommodate larger assembly clearances while maintaining positioning precision, as the magnetic force continuously pulls the rolling bodies toward the guide axes without requiring physical contact or tight tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical contact system with a magnetic field-based system. Instead of relying on precise mechanical contact between guide axes and rolling bodies, the magnetic force provides continuous attraction, eliminating the need for tight clearances and simplifying assembly while maintaining high positioning precision.
4Speed
If high displacement forces are applied, then positioning speed is improved, but system rigidity and precision deteriorate due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-axis segmentation distributes the displacement forces across two independent guide systems, reducing the load on each individual axis. This distribution prevents excessive deformation while maintaining positioning speed, as each axis handles a portion of the total force requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic force mechanism changes the force transmission parameter, allowing for more efficient force application. The magnetic attraction provides continuous engagement between guide axes and rolling bodies, enabling high displacement forces to be applied without causing excessive deformation or loss of precision, thereby maintaining both speed and accuracy.
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 guidance system achieves high precision positioning with reduced displacement forces, is less dependent on operating temperature, and has wider tolerances for guide axis dimensions, making it more cost-effective to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
the fixed element or the movable element comprises a magnet, and the movable element respectively the fixed element comprises a ferromagnetic support and/or a second magnet, wherein the magnet and the ferromagnetic support respectively the second magnet are arranged to generate a magnetic force which is arranged to reduce or avoid this clearance
Data Source
AI summary
A guidance system for guiding the displacement of a movable element with respect to a fixed element. The guidance system includes a linear actuator, the fixed element having a main guide axis, a secondary guide axis, the movable element being arranged to be displaced by the linear actuator with respect to the fixed element along a first axis (z). The movable element includes: a first rolling bodies guide device cooperating with the main guide axis, arranged to block four degrees of freedom of the movable element, a second rolling bodies guide device cooperating with the secondary guide axis, arranged to block a rotation of the movable element about a third axis (z). The fixed element or the movable element includes a first magnet, and the movable element respectively the fixed element includes a ferromagnetic support and/or a second magnet, wherein the first magnet and the ferromagnetic support and/or the first magnet and second magnet are arranged to generate a magnetic force (FA) which is arranged to reduce or avoid a clearance, thereby enabling guidance with little or no clearance.