Static Analytical Modeling of Linear Guide Based on Hertz Contact Theory

To study the static characteristic of the linear guide, the ball-groove contact model is developed based on the Hertz contact theorem. By using the ball-groove contact model, the analytical static mode of the linear guide is established. Moreover, the CoFEM model is utilized to verify the feasibility of the proposed analytical model. Finally, the effects of load and preload on the static model are discussed based on the analytical model. The results indicate that the linear guide has piecewise-nonlinear characteristic in different loads. Additionally, the stiffness of the linear guide can be increased significantly by increasing the preload on the system as well as the stability.