Resin Retainer Plate with Metal Frame Members for Linear Motion Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional linear motion guide units face issues with deformation of retainer plates due to tightening forces, leading to increased sliding resistance and reduced smooth circulation of rollers, as the axial forces applied during bolt tightening cause swelling or distortion of guide surfaces.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating metal frame members within the retainer plate made of resin, which are fixed to the carriage using bolts, creating a gap between the fixing member and the carriage to prevent direct application of tightening forces on the retainer member, thus maintaining the integrity of the guide surfaces and ensuring smooth roller circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the retainer plate made of resin is fixed to the carriage by tightening fastening bolts with strong tightening torque, then the retainer plate is securely attached to the carriage, but the tightening forces cause deformation of the guide surfaces of the retainer plate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frame members made of resin as intermediary elements between the fastening bolts and the retainer plate. These frame members are positioned at the bolt insertion positions and prevent the tightening forces from being directly transmitted to the retainer plate, thereby protecting the guide surfaces from deformation while still enabling secure attachment of the retainer plate to the carriage
2Manufacturing precision
If the retainer plate is securely attached to prevent deformation, then guide surface integrity is maintained, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frame members with the retainer plate by positioning them at the bolt insertion positions on the retainer plate. This integration allows the frame members to serve dual purposes: protecting the guide surfaces from deformation and providing structural support for the retainer plate attachment, thereby reducing overall structural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
In the linear motion guide unit, a retainer plate for retaining rolling elements, or rollers, is prevented from deformation so as to smoothly guide the rollers. The retainer plate is composed of a retainer member, frame members fitted into respective through holes formed in the retainer member, and a fixing member disposed in a longitudinally extending recess of the retainer member. The frame members form a predetermined gap between the fixing member and a carriage. Tightening forces of fastening bolts are not applied to the retainer member, thereby avoiding deformation of the retainer member.