Compensating Spring Positioning Structure for Accurate XY Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional positioning systems in machine shops face challenges in achieving high accuracy in XY-plane positioning due to issues like temperature stability, freedom of play, and elastic deformation, which affect the precision of object placement in machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A positioning device with a spring arrangement that includes a first spring portion deflecting in the positive Z-direction and a second spring portion deflecting in the negative Z-direction, balanced to compensate for deflection, ensuring controlled deformation and improved accuracy by using a conical inner surface and taper for press fit mounting, and an annular disc shape with a rim portion and press fit guiding means for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional rigid positioning system is used, then structural stability is maintained, but positioning accuracy deteriorates due to elastic deformation and freedom of play
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the positioning system by introducing spring portions that can elastically deform. The spring arrangement allows controlled deformation in the Z-direction while maintaining positioning accuracy in the XY-plane, resolving the contradiction between rigid structural stability and flexible deformation compensation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static rigid positioning system to a dynamic system with spring portions that can adaptively deform. The spring arrangement dynamically adjusts to radial forces and mounting pressures, maintaining contact between reference means while compensating for deformation through elastic recovery
2Strength
If press fit mounting is used to secure the positioning device, then attachment strength is improved, but radial forces cause spring deflection and positioning inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful radial forces from press fit mounting into a beneficial effect. The spring portions are designed to deflect under these radial forces and then recover, using the elastic deformation to maintain contact between reference means while compensating for the deformation to preserve positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The spring arrangement acts as a cushioning element that anticipates and absorbs the radial forces generated during press fit mounting. The spring portions are pre-configured to deflect in the Z-direction, providing a buffer that protects the positioning accuracy from the harmful effects of mounting forces
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 solution enhances the accuracy of object positioning in the XY-plane by balancing spring deflection, reducing misalignment risks, and maintaining precision despite radial forces, thereby improving the overall positioning accuracy in machine shop applications.
Implementation Method 1
the first spring portion is configured to deflect in a positive Z-direction in operation and the second spring portion is configured to deflect in a negative Z-direction in operation to compensating for the deflection of the first spring portion in the positive Z-direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a positioning device for a positioning system for positioning a first object in relation to a second object in a XY-reference system. The positioning device comprises a spring arrangement (130) comprising at least one first spring portion (132) serially coupled to at least one second spring portion (134), and the first spring portion (132) is configured to deflect in a positive Z-direction (+Z) in operation and the second spring portion (134) is configured to deflect in a negative Z-direction (-Z) in operation to compensating for the deflection of the first spring portion (132) in the positive Z-direction. Thereby, improved accuracy in positioning the first object in relation to the second object is provided.