Spindle-Rotor Unit Lock Nut Design for Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing planetary screw drive (PWG) systems for actuators are expensive to construct and assemble, due to complex and costly connections between the rotor and spindle, which hinder efficient conversion of rotary motion to axial motion.
Innovation Solution
A spindle-rotor unit with a threaded rod and a rotor carrier secured by a lock nut, optionally with an intermediate plate and spring accumulator, providing a cost-effective and simple rotational fixation, and featuring a self-clamping lock nut to prevent unintended loosening, along with a signal generator integrated into the lock nut or intermediate plate for easy positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex connection system is used between rotor and spindle to ensure rotational fixation and axial securing, then reliability of connection is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock nut combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides rotational fixation through threading engagement with the rotor carrier, axial securing through engagement with the spindle, and anti-loosening protection through its self-clamping design. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate connection elements needed while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock nut serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it acts as a fastening element for rotational fixation, a positioning element for axial securing, and a protective element against unintended loosening. The self-clamping mechanism provides both locking and anti-loosening functions in one feature, demonstrating multi-functionality that reduces overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional compression connection or other rotational fixation methods are used between rotor and spindle, then rotational fixation is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional segments: the threaded rod provides the basic rotational fixation through its threading, the rotor carrier provides the mounting interface, and the lock nut provides the securing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to integrated complex connection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-clamping lock nut automatically secures itself against loosening through its inherent mechanical design, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms or complex assembly procedures. The self-clamping feature activates automatically during normal operation, providing anti-loosening protection without requiring special tools or procedures during assembly or maintenance.
3Measurement precision
If sensor technology is integrated into the disengaging system to determine piston position, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock nut and intermediate plate serve dual purposes: they provide mechanical connection and positioning functions, and simultaneously serve as mounting platforms for the signal generator. This multi-functionality allows the sensor system to be integrated into existing structural components rather than requiring separate sensor housings and mounting mechanisms, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A spindle drive unit, in particular for an actuator having a planetary screw drive (PWG) for actuating a clutch of a motor vehicle by an actuating element is provided, where the drive unit has an e-motor with a rotor and a stator and where a spindle provided with a pitch is connected non-rotatingly to the rotor and is drivable by the rotor around an axis of rotation. The spindle is designed as a threaded rod and a rotor carrier that holds the rotor is screwed onto the threaded rod, and the rotor carrier is rotationally secured and axially fixed on the spindle by a lock nut.


