Spindle Nut Orientation Features for Faster Linear Drive Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing linear drives face challenges in assembly efficiency due to incorrect angular orientation of the spindle nut within the guide tube, leading to delayed insertion and increased cycle times during assembly.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of positional orientation means, such as ship profiles on the spindle nut and guide tube, ensures correct rotary angle orientation, facilitating easier assembly and alignment of the spindle nut within the guide tube, even during automated processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the spindle nut is inserted into the guide tube without positional orientation means, then the assembly process becomes simpler, but the incorrect angular orientation causes delayed insertion and increased assembly cycle times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring positional orientation means (such as orientation profiles, guide ribs, or keyed structures) on either the spindle nut or guide tube before assembly. These pre-formed features automatically guide the spindle nut into the correct angular orientation during insertion, eliminating the need for manual alignment and preventing incorrect orientation issues during the assembly process
2Productivity
If positional orientation means are added to ensure correct angular orientation, then assembly cycle time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing positional orientation means only at specific critical locations where angular orientation is required, rather than throughout the entire component structure. For example, orientation profiles are added only to the insertion end of the guide tube or specific features on the spindle nut, keeping the rest of the components simple and maintaining ease of manufacture while still achieving the orientation function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the orientation function with existing structural elements of the spindle nut or guide tube. Instead of adding completely separate orientation mechanisms, the orientation profiles are integrated into the existing component geometry, such as combining orientation ribs with the guide tube wall or integrating orientation features into the spindle nut's threading structure, thereby minimizing additional complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A linear drive comprising a transmission housing and an electric motor which is connected thereto and which drives a mounted shaft which in turn drives a worm which meshes with a worm gear which is non-rotatably connected to a spindle on which runs a spindle nut, arranged displaceably in a guide tube. Provided between the guide tube and the spindle nut to ensure correct rotary angle orientation of the spindle nut, in relation to the guide tube are inner barsa and complementary guide grooves. To simplify machine-assisted mounting of the spindle nut, in the guide tube there are provided positional orientation means which implement correct rotary angle orientation of the spindle nut, upon insertion thereof into the guide tube in the push-in direction.