Linear guide device

In a linear guide device including: a rail having on either side surface thereof a track recess with a track surface formed thereon; a rail cover covering a rail upper surface of the rail; a saddle-like slider moving linearly on the rail; and a rolling member circulating through a connection path provided in the slider and adapted to roll on the track surface of the rail, the rail cover is equipped with a side edge portion having an engagement portion, an upper track surface serving as an engagement surface is provided in a lower portion of an upper side surface of the rail, the engagement surface being a slope gradually diminishing in the rail width direction downwardly from the upper side surface, and an engagement portion of the rail cover is engaged with the engagement surface, whereby it is possible to achieve an increase in the speed of the rail grinding work for allowing engagement of the rail cover covering the rail upper surface of the liner guide device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a linear guide device provided in a guide portion of a machine, e.g., a machine tool, such as a cutting machine or a grinding machine, or an industrial machine, such as a wood working machine, a cutter, or an injection molding machine, and used to linearly move a movable base, such as a table.

2. Description of the Related Art

In a conventional linear guide device, a saddle-like slider is provided with a connection path, and balls circulating through this connection path are caused to roll on a track surface of a track recess provided on a side surface of a rail so that the slider can move linearly on the rail, and a rail cover whose longitudinal edge portions are bent by an angle smaller than 90 degrees is engaged with an undercut provided on the top of the upper side surfaces on both sides of the rail, preventing intrusion of dust, product chips, etc. by means of seals provided at the front and rear ends with respect to the slider moving direction (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,566).

Further, in another conventional linear guide device, a plate-like rail cover is glued by adhesive to the upper surface of a rail of a similar linear guide device to thereby prevent intrusion of cutting chips or the like (see, for example, JP01-140936 A).

Further, in a still another conventional linear guide device, a rail cover covering the upper surface of a rail of a similar linear guide device is engaged with or screwed to a track surface by means of cover stoppers provided at both ends with respect to the moving direction of a slider (referred to as the slider moving direction) to prevent relative movement of the rail cover and the rail (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,513,976).

Generally speaking, a track recess forming a track surface provided on a side surface of a rail is formed by grinding, and, to achieve an improvement in machining precision and a reduction in machining man-hours, it is desirable to form the track recess and the side surface at one time by using a form grind stone.

However, in the technique as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,566, a step-like undercut is provided on the top of the rail upper side surface to allow engagement of the rail cover, so that it is necessary to form fine protrusions and recesses on the rail side surface and it is necessary for the form grind stone to be of a configuration with fine protrusions and recesses; to avoid damaging these fine protrusions and recesses during grinding, it is rather difficult to increase the grinding speed, resulting in a deterioration in machining efficiency.

Further, in the technique as disclosed in JP 01-140936A. the plate-like rail cover is glued to the rail upper surface by adhesive to cover the upper surface of the rail, so that, while effective when used in a dry environment, when used in an environment where it is exposed to a water-soluble substance, such as a coolant cutting liquid for use in a machine tool, the device has a problem in that the aqueous solution permeates the adhesive between the plate-like rail cover and the rail upper surface to thereby deteriorate the adhesion property of the adhesive, resulting in the rail cover being raised or detached.

Further, in the technique as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,513,976, the cover stoppers are engaged with or screwed to the rail track surface to fix the rail cover covering the rail upper surface, so that a dent or flaw due to the pressurizing force or the screw fastening force is generated on the track surface, with the result that the rolling members are subject to damage at the time of movement of the slider or at the time of re-assembly after dismantling, which may lead to generation of noise, an increase in sliding resistance, etc. during sliding movement of the slider.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been made with a view toward solving the above problems in the prior art. It is an object of the present invention to provide a means for achieving an increase in the speed of the rail grinding work for allowing engagement of the rail cover covering the rail upper surface.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a means for, even if used in an environment where it is exposed to a water-soluble substance, maintaining the adhesion property between the rail cover and the rail upper surface, thereby preventing detachment, etc. of the rail cover.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a means for preventing relative movement of the rail cover and rail without damaging the rail track surface.

To attain the above objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a linear guide device including: a rail having on both side surfaces thereof a track recess with a track surface formed thereon; a rail cover covering a rail upper surface of the rail; a saddle-like slider moving linearly on the rail; and a rolling member circulating through a connection path provided in the slider and adapted to roll on the track surface of the rail, characterized in that the rail cover is equipped with a side edge portion having an engagement portion, an engagement surface is provided in a lower portion of an upper side surface of the rail, the engagement surface being a slope gradually diminishing in a width direction of the rail downwardly from the upper side surface, and that an engagement portion of the rail cover is engaged with the engagement surface.

Further, according to a second aspect of the present invention, the rail cover is equipped with a side edge portion having an engagement portion, an engagement surface is provided in a lower portion of an upper side surface of the rail, the engagement surface being a slope gradually diminishing in a width direction of the rail downwardly from the upper side surface, and an engagement portion of the rail cover is engaged with a corner portion made by the engagement surface and the upper side surface.

Further, according to a third aspect of the present invention, an adhesive tape is provided at least on the rail upper surface of the rail and between the rail upper surface and the rail cover, and the rail cover is bonded to the rail by the adhesive tape.

Further, according to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a linear guide device including: a rail having on both side surfaces thereof a track recess with a pair of track surfaces formed thereon; a rail cover covering a rail upper surface of the rail; a saddle-like slider moving linearly on the rail; a cover stopper arranged at both ends of the rail with respect to a slider moving direction and adapted to prevent relative movement of the rail cover and the rail in the slider moving direction; and a rolling member rolling on a track surface of the rail, characterized in that the rail cover is bent at both ends with respect to the slider moving direction to form an end bent portion, the cover stopper includes a main body portion, and a pair of leg portions extending in the slider moving direction from the main body portion, the cover stopper being formed as a substantially U-shaped member, a cover stopper leg portion lock portion is provided between the pair of track surfaces, the cover member is arranged at the both ends of the rail, with an inner side of the main body portion of the cover stopper abutting the end bent portion, and that the leg portions of the cover stopper is locked to the cover stopper leg portion lock portion.

Thus, according to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the rail side surface configuration is simplified to simplify the configuration of the grinding surface of the form grind stone for grinding the same, and grinding work at high speed is facilitated, shortening the rail machining time and achieving an improvement in the machining efficiency thereof.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, there is provided, in addition to the above, the following effect: the rail upper surface and the rail cover are bonded to each other by the adhesive tape provided therebetween while being pressurized due to their engagement, and even if the linear guide device is used in an environment where it is exposed to a water-soluble substance such as coolant, it is possible to prevent a deterioration in the adhesion property of the adhesive due to intrusion of the water-soluble substance, and it is possible to prevent, for a long period of time, rising or detachment of the rail cover.

Further, according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to lock the cover stopper leg portions in regions other than the track surface on which the rolling members roll, thus making it possible to arrange the cover stopper at either end of the rail without leaving any dent or flaw on the track surface.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following, embodiments of the linear guide device of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1is a sectional view of a rail cover and a rail according to Embodiment 1;FIG. 2is a perspective view of a linear guide device according to Embodiment 1;FIG. 3is a right-hand-side half sectional view taken along the line B—B ofFIG. 2; andFIG. 4is an enlarged view of portion A ofFIG. 1.

Reference numeral2indicates a rail of the linear guide device1; which is an elongated bar-like member formed of a steel material such as alloy steel and having a substantially I-shaped sectional configuration. In the rail upper surface2aof the rail, a plurality of stepped bolt holes3for fixing the rail2to the base or the like of a machine, such as a machine tool, are provided at a predetermined pitch.

Each side surface4of the rail2has an upper side surface4a, with an upper track surface5aprovided under the upper side surface4athat is a slope gradually diminished downwards from the upper side surface4ain the width direction of the rail2, and a lower side surface4b, with a lower track surface5bprovided at the top of the lower side surface4bthat is a slope gradually diminished upwards from the lower side surface4bin the width direction of the rail2. The upper track surface5aand the lower track surface5bform a track recess5which is a substantially V-shaped recess extending in the longitudinal direction thereof substantially at the center of the side surface4of the rail2.

Runners6as rolling members roll respectively on the upper track surface5aand on the lower track surface5bof the track recess5.

The portion of the upper track surface5ain the vicinity of the corner formed by itself and the upper side surface4afunctions as an engagement surface which is engaged with an engagement portion13bof a rail cover12described below.

Further, the upper side surface4aand the lower side surface4bof each side of the rail2are formed so as to be flush with each other, that is, such that the rail width between the upper side surfaces4aand the rail width between the lower side surfaces4bare the same.

Reference numeral7indicates a slider; which is a saddle-like member with a substantially U-shaped sectional configuration formed of a steel material, such as alloy steel. In the upper surface of the slider, there are provided stopped screw holes7a, by means of which the movable table or the like of a machine, such as a machine tool, is fastened using bolts or the like.

Further, in both sidewalls7bof the slider7, there are provided connection paths8aand8bwith a rectangular sectional configuration inclined by substantially 45 degrees for circulating the runners6shown inFIG. 3; in each inner side surface of the connection paths8aand8b, there is formed a rolling portion9composed of rolling surfaces9aand9brespectively opposed by means of the runners6to the upper track surface5aand the lower track surface5bof the track recess5of the rail2.

The connection path8ais connected to a rolling path formed by the upper track surface5aof the track recess5of the rail2and the rolling surface9aof the rolling portion9of the slider7, and the connection path8bis connected to a rolling path formed by the lower track surface5bof the track recess5of the rail2and the rolling surface9bof the rolling portion9of the slider7; sealed in each of those circulation rolling paths thus formed are a plurality of runners6and a predetermined amount of lubricant, such as grease, the runners6rolling while circulating. The same is true of the opposite side wall7b. Due to this arrangement, the slider7is supported by the rail2so as to be capable of making linear reciprocating movements.

When providing the connection paths8aand8band the rolling portions9in the slider7, it is possible to appropriately separate the components for the sake of convenience in production, assembling them together by fastening means, such as bolts, to form the slider7. In this case, the main body of the slider7may be formed of a steel material, or a relatively soft metal material, or a resin material.

Reference numeral10indicates a retaining member, which is formed of a metal material, a resin material or the like, and is fitted into a V-shaped groove9cof the rolling portion9of the slider7to retain the runners6, preventing them from being detached.

Reference numeral12indicates a rail cover, which is formed of an elastic thin plate of alloy steel or the like in a length substantially equal to the longitudinal length of the rail2. As shown inFIG. 4, each side edge portion13of the rail cover, extending in the longitudinal direction, is bent by press working or the like into a configuration in conformity with the upper side surface4aof the rail2and the upper track surface5aof the track recess5, to be formed into a cover side surface13a, which is a vertical surface, and an engagement portion13b, which is a slope; the portion between the both cover side surfaces13ais formed as a flat surface extending along the upper surface2aof the rail2, and, as shown inFIG. 1, utilizing the elasticity of the rail cover12, the engagement portions13bare engaged with the upper track surfaces5aserving as the engagement surfaces of the rail2, thus effecting attachment of the rail cover.

The rail cover12of this embodiment is formed of a stainless steel with a thickness of 0.2 mm or more, more preferably, 0.25 to 0.3 mm, e.g., SUS301CPS or SUS304CSP, and both cover side surfaces13athereof are bent into rounded portions R smaller than the beveled portions2bof the corner portions of the rail upper surface2aand of the rail2the upper side surfaces4ato thereby shape the cover side surfaces13a. Further, the engagement portions13bare bent so as to extend along the upper track surfaces5ato form the side edge portions13.

The angle made by the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12after the bending is made smaller by approximately 5 degrees than the clip angle made of the upper side surfaces4aand the engagement surfaces, whereby the close contact between the rail cover12and the rail2after the attachment of the rail cover12can be made appropriate.

Further, to make the attachment property of the rail cover12satisfactory, the end portions of the engagement portions13bare prevented as much as possible from getting inwards from the cover side surfaces13awithout impairing the close contact property. In this case, care must be taken so that the end portions of the engagement portions13bmay not interfere with the rolling routes for the runners6on the upper track surfaces5a.

Reference numeral14indicates side seals, which consist of cores formed of a plate material, such as alloy steel, with seal portions14aof an elastic material, such as natural rubber or a synthetic rubber, being formed thereon, and the seal portions14aremaining in contact with the surface of the outer contour of the rail2and the rail cover12and slide thereon as the slider7reciprocates.

Reference numeral15indicates end caps, which are formed of a metal material, a resin material or the like, and are fastened to the front and rear ends of the slider with respect to the sliding direction thereof by means of screws or the like together with the side seals14arranged on the outer side of the end caps.

When attaching the rail cover12so as to cover the upper surface2aof the rail2, the rail cover12is inclined to one of the upper track surfaces5aconstituting the engagement surfaces of the track recesses5, so as to engage one engagement portion13bto the upper track surfaces5a; in this state, the cover side surface13aon the other side is expanded utilizing its elasticity, and the other engagement portion13bis engaged with the other upper track surface5ato thereby attach the rail cover12to the rail2.

As a result, the rail cover12covers the entire upper surface2aof the rail2, and due to the seal portions14aof the side seals14sliding on the lower side surfaces4b, the track recesses5, and the rail cover12, it is possible to prevent intrusion of dust and production chips consisting of iron, aluminum, wood, etc. into the stepped bolt holes3and the track recesses5.

In this case, when the thickness of the rail cover12is approximately 0.15 mm, it is been confirmed through experiment that the portions of the rail cover12covering the stepped bolts3of the rail2are deformed to sink by the pressurizing force due to the sliding of the side seals14to form dents, where production chips, etc. remain, making it difficult to maintain the production chip removing action of the side seals14; thus, in this embodiment, the thickness of the rail cover12is set to 0.25 to 0.3 mm to prevent deformation of the upper surface12aof the rail cover12.

The shaping of the side surfaces4of the rail2of this embodiment is effected at one time using a form grind stone with a grinding surface in conformity with each side surface configuration. In this case, the grinding surface of the form grind stone has a simple configuration without any fine protrusions and recesses, so that it is possible to perform grinding easily at high speed while preventing fracture of the grind stone.

Further, quenching such as high-frequency quenching is usually effected on the side surfaces4of the rail2; in this regard, when there is a shortage in the vertical length of the upper side surfaces4aor they have fine protrusions and recesses, heat is concentrated on those portions at the time of heating for quenching, which is likely to lead to a defect. In view of this, the side surfaces4are formed in a simple configuration, and an appropriate vertical length is imparted to the upper side surfaces4a, whereby generation of cracking is prevented, thus mitigating a defect due to quenching.

As described above, in this embodiment, the engagement portions of the rail cover are engaged, utilizing the elasticity thereof, with the upper track surfaces serving as engagement surfaces provided under the upper side surfaces of the rail of the linear guide device and consisting of slopes gradually diminished downwards, whereby the side surface configuration of the rail is simplified, and the configuration of the grinding surface of the form grind stone for shaping it is simplified, making it possible to facilitate the grinding at high speed and shorten the rail working time to thereby achieve an improvement in machining efficiency.

Further, since the side seals are caused to slide on the simplified outer peripheral surface formed by the rail and the rail cover, the seal portions of the side seals can be easily formed, making it possible to produce the side seals at low cost and to obtain a sufficient dust-proof property against intrusion of dust, product chips, etc.

Further, the upper side surfaces and the lower side surfaces of the rail are formed so as to be flush with each other, so that, in the inspection process in the production of the rail, when one upper side surface and one lower side surface are placed on the inspection table, the other side surfaces are horizontal, thereby facilitating the inspecting operation.

FIG. 5is a partial enlarged view of a rail and a rail cover according to Embodiment 2.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 is indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Reference numeral21indicates inclined surfaces serving as engagement surfaces, which are slopes provided under the upper side surfaces4aon both sides of the rail2and gradually diminished downwards from the upper side surfaces4ain the width direction of the rail2, with the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12engaging with the engagement surfaces21due to the elasticity thereof.

In this embodiment, the inclined surfaces21are provided at the corner portions made by the upper side surfaces4aand the upper track surfaces5aof the track recesses5; the upper side surfaces4aare vertical surfaces, and the inclined surfaces21are inclined by 30 degrees with respect to the vertical direction, and the upper track surfaces5aare inclined by 45 degrees with respect to the vertical direction, such that the inclined surface21and the corner portions of the upper track surfaces5ado not interfere with the rolling routes for the runners6.

When the inclination angle of the inclined surfaces21are set to 25 to 35 degrees with respect to the vertical direction, there is no fear of the close contact property and attachment property of the rail cover12being impaired.

Further, the engagement portions13bof the side edge portions13of the rail cover12are bent so as to extend along the inclined surfaces21, so that the bending angle of the engagement portions13bis smaller than that in Embodiment 1.

In this way, by providing the inclined surfaces21at the corner portions made by the upper side surfaces4aof the rail side surface4and the upper track surfaces5aof the track recesses5, it is also possible to simplify the side surface configuration of the rail2.

When attaching the rail cover12so as to cover the upper surface2aof the rail2, the rail cover12is inclined and one engagement portion13bis engaged with one of the inclined surfaces21; in this state, the cover side surface13aon the other side is expanded utilizing its elasticity, and the other engagement portion13bis engaged with the other inclined surface21to thereby attach the rail cover12to the rail2. As a result, the rail cover12covers the entire upper surface2aof the rail2, and it is possible to prevent intrusion of dust and production chips into the stepped bolt holes3and each of the track surfaces of the track recesses5.

As described above, in this embodiment, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 1, inclined surfaces are provided at the corner portions made by the upper side surfaces of the rail and the upper track surfaces of the track recesses so that the engagement portions of the rail cover can be bent at a smaller bending angle, whereby it is possible to further improve the attachment property of the rail cover with respect to the rail.

FIG. 6is a partial enlarged view of a rail and a rail cover according to Embodiment 3.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 2 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The rail2and the rail cover12of this embodiment are the same as the rail2and the rail cover12of Embodiment 2 except that the engagement portions13bof the side edge portions13of the rail cover12are engaged with the apex portions of corner portions25made by the inclined surfaces21serving as the engagement surfaces and the upper side surfaces4aor rounded portions provided at the corner portions25.

Thus, the vertical length of the cover side surfaces13aof the rail cover12is formed to be smaller than the length of the cover side surfaces13ain Embodiment 2.

As a result, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 2, the engagement portions of the rail cover are engaged with the corner portions made by the inclined surfaces and the upper side surfaces, so that it is possible to more effectively utilize the elasticity of the side edge portions of the rail cover, making it possible to further enhance the close contact property of the rail cover with respect to the rail.

Further, it is possible to relax the bending precision for the engagement portions, thereby facilitating the production of the rail cover.

FIG. 7is a partial enlarged view of a modification of the rail cover of Embodiment 3.

The components that are the same of those of Embodiment 3 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The bending angle α of the engagement portions13bof the side edge portions13of the rail cover12of this embodiment is formed to be smaller than the angle β of the corner portions25made by the inclined surfaces21and the upper side surfaces4a, and the portions near the forward ends of the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12are engaged with the inclined surfaces21serving as the engagement surfaces.

Thus, the vertical length of the cover side surfaces13aof the rail cover12is larger than the length of the cover side surfaces13aof Embodiment 2.

Thus, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 2, the engagement portions of the rail cover is bent at a bending angle smaller than the angle made by the inclined surfaces and the upper side surfaces, so that it is possible to more effectively utilize the elasticity of the engagement portions of the rail cover, making it possible to further enhance the close contact property of the rail cover with respect to the rail.

Further, it is possible to relax the bending precision for the engagement portions, thereby facilitating the production of the rail cover.

While the above-described rail cover shown inFIGS. 6 and 7is applied to the rail of Embodiment 2, it is also possible to apply the same to the rail covers of Embodiment 1 and those of Embodiments4and5described below.

FIG. 8is a partial enlarged view of a rail and a rail cover according to Embodiment 4.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 2 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The linear guide device1of this embodiment uses balls31as rolling members, and the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bof the track recesses5of the rail2are equipped with rail track grooves32aand32bon which the balls31roll.

In this embodiment, as in Embodiment 2, at the corner portions made by the upper side surfaces4aand the upper track surfaces5a, there are provided the inclined surfaces21serving as the engagement surfaces, and the rail cover12is attached to the rail2in the same manner as in Embodiment 2.

As described above, with the rail of a linear guide device using balls as rolling members, it is also possible to obtain the same effect as that of Embodiment 2.

In this embodiment, when the upper track surfaces are used as the engagement surfaces, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of Embodiment 1.

FIG. 9shows a case in which the present invention is applied to the rail2of another linear guide device1using balls31as rolling members.

FIG. 9is a sectional view of another linear guide device using balls; andFIG. 10is an enlarged view of portion C ofFIG. 9.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1, 2, and 4 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

InFIGS. 9 and 10, reference numeral35indicates track recesses provided in the side surface4of the rail2, at the bottom of each of the track recesses there are formed two rows of rail track grooves32aand32bfor the balls31.

The number of rows of rail track grooves for the balls31, provided at each track recess35, is not restricted to two; it may also be three or more.

At the corner portions made by the track recesses35and the upper side surfaces4a, there are provided the inclined surfaces21serving as engagement surfaces gradually diminished downwards from the upper side surfaces4ain the width direction of the rail2, and, as in Embodiment 4, the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12are engaged therewith.

Thus, with the rail of another type of linear guide device using balls as rolling members, it is also possible to obtain the same effect as that of Embodiment 2.

FIG. 11is a perspective view of a rail cover according to Embodiment 5.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 is indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

In the drawing, reference numeral40indicates cutouts; they are formed by partially cutting out both of the side edge portions13of the rail cover12obliquely from both side ends of the front end portion41aor the rear end portion41bwith respect to the slider moving direction such that they diverge toward the cover end surface42as seen sidewise.

In this embodiment, the cutouts40are provided in the engagement portions13bof both side edge portions13of the front end portion41a.

The operation of this embodiment, constructed as described above, will be illustrated.

When attaching the rail cover12to the upper surface2aof the rail2, the front end portion41ais placed on the upper surface2aof the rail2, and the cover side surfaces13aare fitted onto the upper side surfaces4aof both sides of the rail2, with the rail cover12being pushed in obliquely in the slider moving direction.

At this time, the cutouts40provided in the engagement portions13bof the side edge portions13are pushed open due to their slopes, guiding the engagement portions13asmoothly to the engagement surfaces of the rail2; by further pushing in the rail cover, both engagement portions13acan be easily engaged with the engagement surfaces, making it possible to easily attach the rail cover12to the rail2.

As described above, when applied to the above embodiments, the rail cover of this embodiment provides, in addition to the effect of Embodiment, the following effect: due to the provision of the cutouts formed by cutting the end portions of the side edge portions obliquely toward the cover end surface, it is possible to guide the engagement portions smoothly to the engagement surfaces of the rail, so that the rail cover can be attached to the rail easily.

While in the above-described example the cutouts are provided at the front end, it is also possible to provide them at the rear end or at both ends; the above effect can be obtained by providing them at least at one of the front and rear ends.

Further, while in the above-described example the cutouts are provided by cutting out the engagement portions, it is also possible for the cutouts to be provided so as to include the cover side surfaces; in brief, the same effect as described above can be obtained by obliquely cutting out part of the side edge portions.

FIG. 12is a sectional view of a rail cover and a rail according to Embodiment 6;FIG. 13is an enlarged view of portion D ofFIG. 12;FIG. 14is a sectional view of an adhesive tape according to Embodiment 6.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

InFIGS. 12 and 13, reference numeral50indicates an adhesive tape; it has a base member50ahaving a width substantially the same as the inner central width of the cover12indicated by L inFIG. 12, that is, a width substantially the same as the width of the flat surface extending along the rail upper surface2a; as shown inFIG. 14, entirely applied to both sides of the base member50a, which consists of a waterproof acrylic foam or film or the like, is an adhesive agent50bsuperior in adhesion property and watertightness, e.g., a silicone type or acrylic type adhesive, thus forming a tape whose both sides have adhesion property.

Taking into account corrosion prevention and elasticity, the rail cover12of this embodiment consists of a stainless steel plate material, e.g., a plate material in conformity with the standards of various nations like JIS Standards, such as SUS301CPS or SUS304CSP, DIN Standards, etc.; both side portions of the plate member with respect to the width direction of the rail2, formed of such a plate material, are bent at a predetermined inner roundness so as to extend along the upper side surfaces4aof the rail2, thereby forming the cover side surfaces13a; further, the engagement portions13bare bent so as to extend along the upper track surfaces5aserving as the engagement surfaces, thus forming the side edge portions13.

The angle γ of the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12after the bending, shown inFIG. 13, is preferably set to 30 to 90 degrees. Due to this arrangement, after the attachment of the rail cover12, the rail cover12pressurizes the upper surface2aof the rail2, and the close contact state of the rail cover12and the upper surface2aof the rail2and the adhesive tape50provided therebetween, can be maintained in an appropriate manner.

Further, to make the adhesion property of the rail cover12satisfactory, the end portions of the engagement portions13bare prevented as much as possible from getting inwards from the cover side surfaces13awithout impairing the close contact property. In this case, care must be taken so that the end portions of the engagement portions13bmay not interfere with the rolling routes for the runners6on the upper track surfaces5a.

When attaching the rail cover12so as to cover the upper surface2aof the rail2, one surface of the adhesive tape50is glued to the inner side of the rail cover12by means of the adhesive agent50b, and the rail cover12is inclined to engage the engagement portion13bof one side edge portion13with the upper track surface5aas an engagement surface of one track recess5of the rail2, and, in this state, the side edge portion13on the other side is pushed open utilizing its elasticity to engage the other engagement portion13bwith the other upper track surface5a, thus attaching the rail cover12to the rail2.

As a result, as shown inFIG. 12, after the attachment of the rail cover12, the rail cover12and the upper surface2aof the rail2are attached to each other by means of the adhesive tape50, with the rail cover12pressurizing the upper surface2aof the rail2, and the rail cover12covers the entire upper surface2aof the rail12, thus making it possible to prevent intrusion of dust and production chips, such as iron, aluminum, or wood, into the stepped bolt holes3and the track recesses5by means of the seal portions14aof the side seals14sliding on the lower side surfaces4b, the track recesses5, and the rail cover12.

Further, due to the arrangement in which the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12and the upper track surfaces5aof the rail2are engaged with each other and in which the adhesive tape50is provided between the rail cover12and the upper surface2aof the rail2while applying pressurizing force due to its elasticity, it is possible to prevent the rail cover12from rising by the adhesive force of the adhesive tape50, and, even when the linear guide device1is used in an environment where it is exposed to a water-soluble substance, such as coolant, it is possible to restrain intrusion of the water-soluble substance between the rail cover12and the upper surface2aof the rail2, thereby preventing a deterioration in the adhesion property of the adhesive agent50bof the adhesive tape50.

Further, even when the adhesion property of the adhesive agent50bhas been deteriorated after use in the above environment for along period of time, due to the elasticity of the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12, the reduction and deterioration in adhesion property of the adhesive agent50bis compensated for, making it possible to prevent, for a long period of time, the rail cover12from rising or being detached.

As described above, in addition to the effect as obtained in Embodiment 1, in this embodiment, the engagement portions provided in the side edge portions of the rail cover are engaged with the upper rolling tracks serving as the rail engagement surfaces, and the upper surface of the rail and the rail cover are bonded to each other by the adhesive tape provided between the upper surface of the rail and the rail cover, whereby the upper surface of the rail and the rail cover are bonded to each other while being pressurized due to the engagement of the rail cover, and, even when the linear guide device is used in an environment where it is exposed to a water-soluble substance, such as coolant, it is possible to prevent a deterioration in the adhesion property of the adhesive agent due to intrusion of the water-soluble substance, and to prevent, for a long period of time, the rail cover from rising or being detached.

FIG. 15is a partial enlarged view of a rail and a rail cover according to Embodiment 7.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1, 2, and 6 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the inclined surfaces21serving as the engagement surfaces are formed in the same manner as in Embodiment 2.

As in Embodiment 6, the angle γ of the engagement portions13bof side edge portions13of the rail cover12after the bending is preferably set to 30 to 90 degrees.

Further, the engagement portions13bof the side edge portions13of the rail cover12are bent so as to extend along the inclined surfaces21, so that they are bent by a smaller bending angle than the engagement portions13bof Embodiment 6.

In this way, by providing the inclined surfaces21at the corner portions made by the upper side surfaces4aof the side surfaces4of the rail and the upper track surfaces5aof the track recesses5, it is also possible to bond the rail cover12to the upper surface2aof the rail cover12while pressurizing the adhesive tape between the rail cover12and the upper surface2aof the rail2due to the elasticity of the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12.

The operation of attaching the rail cover12so as to cover the upper surface2aof the rail2is the same as that of Embodiment 6 except that the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12are engaged with the inclined surfaces21, so that a description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, in this embodiment, the inclined surfaces are provided at the corner portions made by the upper side surfaces of the rail and the upper track surfaces of the track recesses so that the engagement portions of the rail cover can be bent by a smaller bending angle, whereby, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 6, it is possible to further improve the attachment property of the rail cover with respect to the rail.

The adhesive tape50may be of the type as shown inFIG. 16.

FIG. 16is a partial enlarged view of a rail and a rail cover according to a modification of Embodiment 7.

The adhesive tape50of this modification is a tape having adhesion property on both sides formed by applying an adhesive agent50bsuperior in adhesion property and watertightness to overall both surfaces of a base member50awhose entire length corresponds to the inner entire length of the rail cover12, that is, a width substantially the same as the width of the rail cover12, and which is waterproof.

The adhesive tape50, whose width corresponds to the material width of the rail cover12, is glued to the entire inner surface of the rail cover12, and, as shown inFIG. 16, placed between the upper surface2aof the rail2, the upper side surfaces4a, the inclined surfaces21serving as the engagement surfaces, and the rail cover12, wherein the rail2and the rail cover12are bonded to each other while pressurizing the upper portion of the rail2by utilizing the elasticity of the rail cover12, thereby attaching the rail cover12to the upper portion of the rail2.

This helps to obtain the same effect as that of Embodiment 7, and, at the same time, it is possible to make firmer the bonding of the rail cover12and the rail2.

The same is true of the case in which the adhesive tape50of this modification with the material width of the rail cover12is applied to the rail2of Embodiment 6. In this case, the adhesive tape50for the engagement portions13bof the rail cover12are bonded to the upper track surfaces5aserving as the engagement surfaces while being pressurized.

FIG. 17is a partial enlarged view of a rail and a rail cover according to Embodiment 8.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 6 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The engagement portions13bof the side edge portions13of the rail cover12of this embodiment are shaped into an arcuate configuration after forming the cover side surfaces13ain the same manner as in Embodiment 6.

In this case, the angle γ of the engagement portions13bwith an arcuate configuration of the rail cover12after the bending is, as shown inFIG. 17, is preferably set to 30 to 90 degrees, wherein the angle γ is the angle in the tangential direction of the arcuate surfaces at the positions where the end portion of the engagement portions13bwith an arcuate configuration are in contact with the upper track surfaces5aserving as the engagement surfaces of the rail2.

Due to this arrangement, after the attachment of the rail cover12, the rail cover12and the upper surface2aof the rail2bonded to each other by means of the adhesive tape50, with the rail cover12pressurizing the upper surface2aof the rail2.

As described above, by forming the engagement portions of the rail cover in an arcuate configuration, it is also possible to obtain the same effect as that of Embodiment 6.

While in Embodiments 1 through 8, described above, beveled portions are provided at the corner portions made by the upper surface and the upper side surfaces of the rail, it is also possible to provide rounded portions. This allows smooth engagement when attaching the rail cover and helps to prevent generation of dents, flaws or the like in the corner portions during handling of the rail, etc.

FIG. 18is a perspective view of a linear guide according to Embodiment 9;FIG. 19is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 9;FIG. 20is a top view of an end portion of a rail cover according to Embodiment 9;FIG. 21is a side view of an end portion of a rail cover according to Embodiment 9;FIG. 22is a side view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 9 is attached; andFIG. 23is a front view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 9 is attached.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiment 1 are indicated by the same reference numerals and a description thereof will be omitted.

The seal portions14aof the linear guide device1of this embodiment are directly fixed to the interior of end caps15by bonding, press-fitting or the like, forming a contact type seal in sliding contact with the outer peripheral surface formed by the rail2and the rail cover12, preventing intrusion of dust from outside and leakage of lubricant from inside.

The rail cover12of this embodiment shown inFIGS. 20 and 21are produced by using a thin plate of an alloy steel or the like by roll forming, etc. in substantially the same length as the longitudinal length of the rail2, and the portion thereof between the side edge portions13extending in the longitudinal direction thereof is formed as a flat surface extending along the upper surface2aof the rail2, with a polyethylene type tape member for preventing damage during production or handling being attached to the cover upper surface12a.

Further, both side edge portions13of the rail cover12are bent by an angle smaller than 90 degrees, and are engaged with the upper portions of the side surfaces of the rail2to prevent relative movement of the rail2and the rail cover12in a direction orthogonal to the slider moving direction; at the same time, the rail cover12covers the entire upper surface2aof the rail2, preventing accumulation of dust, etc. in the stepped bolt holes3.

Further, both end portions of the rail cover12with respect to the slider moving direction are bent, starting with the corner portion made by the upper surface2aand the end surface2cof the rail2, by an angle substantially the same as the angle made by the upper surface2aand the end surface2cof the rail2(90 degrees in this embodiment), and the end bent portion12bis engaged with the rail end surface2cto prevent relative movement of the rail2and the rail cover12in the slider moving direction.

InFIGS. 18 and 19, reference numeral61indicates a cover stopper, which is formed by press working of a relatively thick metal plate material of an alloy steel or the like, or by injection molding of a resin material, such as nylon or polyacetal, with a helisert being threadedly engaged with a screw portion; it is a substantially U-shaped member composed of a main body portion62and a pair of leg portions63extending from both side end portions thereof in the slider moving direction, with the rail cover12side portion of the main body portion62being formed so as to be substantially at the same level as the upper surface12aof the rail cover12.

Further, the cover stopper61is arranged at either end of the rail2, with the inner side of the main body portion62abutting the outer side of the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12engaged with either rail end surface2cof the rail2; as shown inFIGS. 22 and 23, by means of locking bolts65threadedly engaged with through screw holes64provided in the leg portions63, the cover stopper61is fastened to cover stopper leg portion lock portions66, which are flat surfaces between the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bprovided in pairs on the side surfaces of the rail2, and is thereby locked; this helps to prevent relative movement of the rail cover12in the slider moving direction when an a excessive force is applied to the rail cover12, and to prevent the rail cover12from rising from the upper surface2aof the rail2due to a frictional force as a result of abutment of the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12against the main body portion62.

Due to this arrangement, the leg portions63of the cover stopper61are locked in areas other than the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bon which the runners6roll, so that the cover stopper61can be secured in position at either end of the rail2without leaving any dent or flaw on the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5b.

As described above, in this embodiment, the cover stopper is arranged at either end of the rail, with the inner side of the main body portion of the cover stopper abutting the end bent portion of the rail cover, and the cover stopper leg portions are locked to the cover stopper leg portion lock portions between the pairs of rail track surfaces, whereby the leg portions can be locked in areas other than the rail track surfaces on which the runner roll, making it possible to arrange the cover stopper at either end of the rail without leaving any dent or flaw on the rail track surfaces.

This proves particularly effective when performing re-assembly after dismantling and inspecting the rail and the slider, making it possible to repeat dismantling and assembly any number of times without impairing the functions of the linear guide device.

Further, due to the construction in which the cover stopper is secured in position by pressurizing the cover leg portion lock portions by the bolts threadedly engaged with the screw holes provided in the leg portions, fixation is possible by the frictional force between the bolts and the cover stopper leg portion lock portions, making it possible to easily fix the cover stopper without having to perform any additional machining such as threading on the rail, thereby making it possible to simplify the rail machining.

FIG. 24is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 10;FIG. 25is a top view of an end portion of a rail cover according to Embodiment 10;FIG. 26is a side view of an end portion of a rail cover according to Embodiment 10;FIG. 27is a side view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 10 is attached;FIG. 28is a front view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 10 is attached.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 9 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The rail cover12of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 25 and 26is produced in the same manner as that of Embodiment 9, and both end bent portions12bthereof in the slider moving direction are bent, starting with the corner portions made by the upper surface2aof the rail2and the rail end surfaces2c, by an angle larger by an end portion bending angle δ shown inFIG. 26than the angle made by the rail upper surface2aand the rail end surfaces2c(90 degrees in this embodiment).

InFIG. 24, reference numeral71indicates an abutment inclined portion of the cover stopper61; it is provided on the inner side of the main body portion62of the substantially U-shaped cover stopper61produced in the same manner as in Embodiment 9, and is a recess with a slope formed by inclining the surface which the end bent portion12babuts by an angle smaller than the end portion bending angle δ.

The cover stopper61of this embodiment is arranged at either end of the rail2, with the slope of the abutment inclined portion71on the inner side of the main body portion62abutting the outer side of the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12engaged with the rail2by means of the side edge portion13; as shown inFIGS. 27 and 28, as in Embodiment 9, the cover stopper61is locked by being fastened to the cover stopper leg portion lock portions66by means of the locking bolts65threadedly engaged with the through screw holes64of the leg portions63, preventing relative movement of the rail cover12in the slider moving direction; at the same time, the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12abuts the slope of the abutment inclined portion71formed at an angle smaller than its end portion bending angle δ, pressing the rail cover12against the rail upper surface2aby the elasticity of the rail cover12to prevent it from rising.

Due to this arrangement, the leg portions63of the cover stopper61are locked in areas other than the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bon which the runners6roll, so that the cover stopper61can be secured in position at either end of the rail2without leaving any dent or flaw on the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5b.

As described above, this embodiment provides the following effect in addition to the effect of Embodiment 9: the end bent portion of the rail cover is bent by an angle larger than the angle made by the upper surface of the rail and the rail end surface by the end portion bending angle δ, and the end bent portion is caused to abut the slope, inclined by an angle smaller than the end portion bending angle δ, of the abutment inclined portion provided on the inner side of the main body portion of the cover stopper, whereby it is possible to reliably prevent the rail cover from rising from the upper surface of the rail.

FIG. 29is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 11;FIG. 30is a top view of an end portion of a rail cover according to Embodiment 11;FIG. 31is a side view of an end portion of a rail cover according to Embodiment 11;FIG. 32is a side view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 11 is attached;FIG. 33is a front view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 11 is attached.

The components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 9 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The rail cover12shown inFIGS. 30 and 31are produced in the same manner as in Embodiment 9; at the forward end of each of both end bent portions12bbent as in Embodiment 9, there is provided a tip tongue75which is parallel to the upper surface2aof the rail2and which is bent in a direction opposite to the rail end surface2c.

InFIG. 29, reference numeral76indicates a tongue engagement portion of the cover stopper61; it is provided in the main body portion62of the substantially U-shaped cover stopper61produced in the same manner as in Embodiment 9, and is a slit-like hole to be engaged with the tip tongue75provided at the end bend portion12bof the rail cover12.

The cover stopper61of this embodiment is arranged at either end of the rail2, with the inner side of the main body portion62abutting the outer side of the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12engaged with each of both rail ends2cof the rail2as in Embodiment 9, and the tip tongue75of the end bent portion12bbeing inserted into the tongue engagement portion76; as shown inFIGS. 32 and 33, as in Embodiment 9, the cover stopper is locked by being fastened to the cover stopper leg portion lock portions66by means of the locking bolts65threadedly engaged with the through screw holes64of the leg portions63, preventing relative movement of the rail cover12in the slider moving direction, and, at the same time, the tip tongue75of the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12is engaged with the tongue engagement portion76, preventing the rail cover12from rising from the upper surface2aof the rail2.

Due to this arrangement, the leg portions63of the cover stopper61are locked in areas other than the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bon which the runners6roll, so that the rail cover12can be more reliably prevented from rising and the cover stopper61can be secured in position at either end of the rail2without leaving any dent or flaw on the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5b.

As described above, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 9, this embodiment provides the following effect: the tip tongue formed by bending the forward end portion of the bent end portion of the rail cover in a direction opposite to the rail end surface, it is possible to more reliably prevent the rail cover from rising from the upper surface of the rail.

FIG. 34is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 12.

The rail cover12of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 9. Further, the components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 9 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

InFIG. 34, reference numeral81indicates ribs of the cover stopper61, which are formed by pushing the outer corners of the main body portion62and the leg portions63of the cover stopper61by press working or the like to raise the inner corners on the inner side thereof to raise them into a triangular configuration; they function so as to enhance the rigidity of the leg portions63.

Reference numeral82indicates bosses, which are protrusions formed in the periphery of the through screw holes64of the leg portions63of the cover stopper61, and are produced by drawing out of small holes by burring or the like prior to threading to form thick-walled portions in the periphery, functioning so as to enhance the strength of the through screw holes64formed there.

Due to this arrangement, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 9, this embodiment provides the following effect: by enhancing the rigidity of the leg portions of the cover stopper by the ribs and enhancing the screw strength of the screw holes by the bosses, it is possible to enhance the fastening strength of the cover stopper with respect to the cover stopper leg portion engagement portions.

FIG. 35is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 13.

The rail cover12of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 9. Further, the components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 9 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

InFIG. 35, reference numeral85indicates a cover protecting portion of the cover stopper61; it is an eaves-like portion formed by bending the portion of the main body portion62on the rail cover upper surface12aside of the substantially U-shaped cover stopper61produced in the same manner as in Embodiment 9 in the slider moving direction; it functions so as to cover the cut surface at the end of the rail cover12to protect that portion from damage or the like, and at the same time, to prevent the assembly operator from being injured by the cut surface.

Due to this arrangement, in addition to an effect similar that of Embodiment 9, this embodiment provides the following effect: the cut surface of the cover end portion is covered with the cover protecting portion of the cover stopper, thereby making it possible to prevent damage of the rail cover end portion and injuring of the assembly operator.

FIG. 36is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 14; andFIG. 37is a front view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 14 is attached.

The rail cover12of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 9. Further, the components that are the same as those of Embodiments 1 and 9 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

InFIG. 36, reference numeral87indicates a cover protecting portion of the cover stopper61; it is an eaves-like portion produced in the same manner as in Embodiment 13, and is formed so as to cover the end portion of the cover upper surface12aof the rail cover12substantially over the entire length in the width direction thereof, functioning so as to protect the cut surface of the end portion of the rail cover12from damage or the like and protect the assembly operator from injury by the cut surface.

Due to this arrangement, this embodiment helps to further enhance the effect of Embodiment 13.

FIG. 38is a perspective view of a linear guide according to Embodiment 15;FIG. 39is a perspective view of a cover stopper according to Embodiment 15;FIG. 40is a front view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 15 is attached; andFIG. 41is a front view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 15 is attached.

The rail cover12of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 9. The components that are the same as those of Embodiment 1, Embodiment 9, and Embodiment 13 are indicated by the same reference numerals and a description thereof will be omitted.

InFIG. 39, reference numeral91indicates a bolt hole of the cover stopper61; it is a through-hole extending in the thickness direction provided in the main body portion62of the cover stopper61produced in the same manner as in Embodiment 13.

InFIG. 40, reference numeral92indicates a stopped screw hole provided in the end surface2cof the rail2; a bolt93inserted into the bolt hole91of the cover stopper61is threadedly engaged therewith for fastening.

As shown inFIG. 38, the cover stopper61of this embodiment is arranged at either end of the rail2, with the inner side of the main body portion62abutting the outer side of the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12engaged with the rail end surface12c; as shown inFIGS. 40 and 41, by means of the bolt93, fastening is effected, with the end bent portion12bbeing sandwiched between the main body portion62of the cover stopper61and the end surface2cof the rail2; thereafter, the cover stopper61is locked by being fastened to the cover stopper leg portion lock portions66of the rail2by means of the locking bolts65threadedly engaged with the through screw holes64of the leg portions63.

Due to this arrangement, the leg portions63of the cover stopper61are locked in areas other than the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bon which the runners6roll, so that the cover stopper61can be secured in position at either end of the rail2without leaving any dent or flaw on the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5b; and, at the same time, when the slider7moves to the end portion of the rail2and the seal portion14aabuts the rail end surface2cof the cover protecting portion35with respect to the slider moving direction, it is possible to prevent the slider7from being detached from the rail2by the cover stopper61fixed by the locking bolts65and the bolt93.

Further, due to the arrangement in which the cover stopper61is arranged at either end of the rail, with the end bent portion12bof the rail cover12being sandwiched between the main body portion62of the cover stopper61and the rail end surface2cof the rail2, it is possible to firmly prevent relative movement of the rail cover12in the slider moving direction through cooperation of the locking bolts65and the bolt93when an excessive force is applied to the rail cover12; and, at the same time, it is possible to prevent the rail cover12from rising from the rail upper surface2aof the rail2.

As described above, in addition to the effect of Embodiment 13, this embodiment provides the following effect: by fastening the main body portion to the rail end surface of the rail by means of the bolt holes provided in the main body portion of the cover stopper, it is possible to prevent the slider from being detached from the rail, and at the same time, it is possible to sandwich the rail end bent portion of the rail cover between the main body portion and the end surface of the rail, making it possible to reliably prevent relative movement of the rail cover in the slider moving direction and rising of the rail cover from the rail upper surface of the rail.

FIG. 42is a side view showing how a cover stopper according to Embodiment 16 is attached; andFIG. 43is a front view showing how the cover stopper according to Embodiment 16 is attached.

The rail cover12and the cover stopper61of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 9. Further, the components that are the same as those of Embodiment 1, Embodiment 4, and Embodiment 9 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

FIGS. 42 and 43show a pair of rail track grooves32aand32b, which are substantially arcuate grooves provided, as in Embodiment 4, in the upper track surfaces5aand the lower track surfaces5bso as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the track recesses on both sides of the rail2and in which the balls31, serving as the rolling members, roll.

Further, formed in the inner surfaces of both side walls7bof the slider7are slider track grooves as rolling surfaces (not shown) opposed to the rail track grooves32aand32bthrough the intermediation of balls31.

Further, formed between the slider track grooves and the rail track grooves32aand32b, opposed to each other, are rolling paths on which the balls31roll and which support the load of the slider7moving on the rail2.

The cover stopper61of this embodiment is arranged at either end of the rail2, as in Embodiment 9, and function in the same manner as the cover stopper61of Embodiment 9.

As described above, in this embodiment, it is possible to obtain the same result as that of Embodiment 9 even with a linear guide device using balls as the rolling members.

While in Embodiments 9 through 16 described above the leg portions of the cover stopper are locked to the cover stopper leg portion lock portions by means of screws, it is also possible to lock them through pressurization of the cover stopper lock portions by utilizing the elasticity of the leg portions. This helps to simplify the cover stopper.

Further, the techniques regarding the cover stopper described with reference to Embodiments 9 through 16 can be used in an appropriate combination; through combination of each of the technique, it is possible to obtain their respective effects can be exerted synergistically.

While in each of the above-described embodiments the upper surface of the rail is set horizontally, the same is true of the case in which the rail upper surface is set in the vertical direction, or upside down, or inclined.