Motion Guide Clamper Mechanism With Tapered Rolling Restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamper mechanisms for motion guide devices can affect the performance and device life by producing indented impressions on the rolling element path and diverting the rolling element path, leading to suboptimal clamping forces.
Innovation Solution
A clamper mechanism with a clamper block having tapered faces and clamper rolling elements held by an elastic member, allowing for stable clamping by biting the tapered faces when restrained and freely rolling when released, without affecting the rolling element path or device performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the clamping rolling element is pressed against the rolling element rolling path of the track member to exert clamping force, then the clamping force is strong, but indented impressions are produced on the rolling element rolling path, affecting performance and device life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated clamping rolling element that acts as an intermediary between the clamper body and the track member. This intermediary element transmits the clamping force while rolling on the tapered face, preventing direct pressing that would cause indented impressions on the rolling element rolling path. The clamping rolling element serves as a mediator that enables force transmission without harmful contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the contact dimension by introducing a tapered face that is inclined relative to the rolling element rolling path. The clamping rolling element contacts the track member on this tapered surface rather than directly on the rolling element rolling path, effectively moving the contact interaction to a different dimensional plane and avoiding damage to the original rolling path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the rolling element rolling path is diverted to accommodate the clamper mechanism, then the clamper can be integrated into the linear guide, but the dimensions of the rolling element rolling path are compromised, leaving room for improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the contact surfaces into distinct functional zones: the rolling element rolling path maintains its original precise dimensions for motion guidance, while a separate tapered face is provided on the track member for clamping operations. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping rolling element serves as an intermediary that enables the clamper mechanism to function without directly interfering with the rolling element rolling path dimensions. It transmits clamping forces through the tapered face, allowing integration of the clamper while preserving the precision dimensions of the original rolling path.
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 mechanism provides a stable clamping force without compromising the performance or life of the motion guide device, allowing for precise positioning and smooth operation.
Implementation Method 1
a clamper rolling element holder having a clamper rolling element holding part that holds the clamper rolling elements, and attached to the clamper block with an interposition of an elastic member that exerts an elastic force
Implementation Method 2
one or more clamper rolling elements arranged respectively between the pair of left and right tapered faces included in the clamper block and both the left and right side faces of the track member
Data Source
AI summary
A clamper mechanism for a motion guide device includes a clamper block having tapered faces, clamper rolling elements arranged between the tapered faces and both left and right side faces of a track member, and a clamper rolling element holder attached to the clamper block with an interposition of an elastic member. When an elastic force exerted by the elastic member acts in a direction in which the clamper block and the clamper rolling element holder are separated from each other, the clamper rolling elements bite the tapered faces to bring the clamper block into a state restrained to the track member. When an external force against the elastic force exerted by the elastic member acts, the clamper rolling elements are brought into a free state within the tapered faces to bring the clamper block into a state not restrained to the track member to exert a stable clamping force.