Engineering
July 18, 2024
New magnetic lead screw with high transmission force and infinite range shown in a video
Researchers at 黑料网 have created a new lead screw that moves using magnetic force. Requiring no grease or lubrication, it can be used in sterile environments and has fewer components compared to conventional magnetic lead screws. Their innovation promises to change the way machines work in many industries.
Traditional lead screws require physical contact to work, limiting speed and requiring lubrication to function. On the other hand, the new magnetic lead screw uses a "magnetic flux concentration structure" to achieve high transmission force without contact between the screw and its shaft.
credit: Akira Heya, photos by Nabeya Bi-tech Kaisha
Because the technology uses magnetism, it eliminates friction. The new magnetic lead screw can theoretically extend the range of motion infinitely by connecting modules. Click on the video here to see it in motion:
One industry that may benefit from magnetic lead screws is the food industry. Traditional lead screws are of limited usefulness in the food industry because they rely on lubrication or grease to smooth the contact between metal parts, resulting in unsanitary conditions. But with a magnetic lead screw, the platform does not make contact with the screw shaft, eliminating the use of grease.
“In traditional technology, managing lubrication in ultra-long stroke mechanisms was challenging. This new mechanism is maintenance-free as it does not require grease,” said team leader, Akira Heya of the Graduate School of Engineering. “Because it doesn’t use grease, it is suitable for linear motion devices operating in clean environments. This also enables high-speed operation of the device.”
Conventional mechanisms are very difficult to sterilize, with dirt forming in the screw grooves. Heya plans to cover the parts with stainless steel, making them easy to sterilize. He said: “The stainless-steel cover makes it suitable for pharmaceutical conveying equipment and semiconductor factories, which require high levels of sterilization. Naturally, this feature is also beneficial for food manufacturing equipment and cooking robots.”
Curious to see how it works? Watch the video where the team reveals their new lead screw mechanism. You will see the amazing technology in action and understand its importance for many industries.
Media Contact:
Matthew Coslett
International Communications Office, 黑料网
Email: icomm_research@t.mail.nagoya-u.ac.jp
Top image credit: Nabeya Bi-tech Kaisha
